Friday Thoughts
I’m checking in on this fabulously fall Friday (the weather here is AWESOME; 70’s, breezy, perfect) with a Friday Thoughts post.
I hope I adequately express to you guys how much I LOVE, I mean really LOVE, your comments on these posts. They are my favorite.
You don’t know how many times I’ve scoured the comment threads of these Friday Thoughts posts over the months for a story, tip, piece of advice, or feedback someone shared. Your comments have led me to at least one more amazing pair of jeans AND changed they way I teach my kids piano lessons, just to name a few. I love your guts (and your comments’ guts) so, so much.
Today, I have a lot to share since it’s been a few months! Read at your own risk. 🙂 But whatever you do, DON’T ignore my questions below, pretty please. I want to hear all about what YOU think!
School Year Thoughts: August 22 began a new phase for our family. All five of the kids in school…all day long. Over the years, depending on where we’ve lived, we’ve had half day kindergarteners, full day kindergarteners, and a stint where I homeschooled three of the kids. But this is the first year where the send off in the morning means everyone is gone all day.I have mixed feelings. The end of summer about killed me off, I’m not going to lie. The chaos in my house was at an all-time high and well-intentioned schedules were pretty much nonexistent (as were bedtimes and my patience). But then, when everyone left me mid-August, I kind of felt adrift and a little sad, and I wandered around aimless and confused. It reminded me of an older friend’s tongue-in-cheek advice when we lived in Wisconsin: “don’t get attached, they grow up and leave you.” 🙂 My melancholy lasted for about 3 1/2 minutes until I realized that the one thing I always, always crave more of was at my disposal: time.
Of course my well-laid plan to get four bedrooms painted, learn Portuguese, and finish the five quilts hiding under my computer room table all within the first five days of school didn’t happen (or even get started, let’s be honest) like I thought they would (how does time go so dang fast during the day??), but I AM determined to make the most of my time at home during the day.
As you know, blogging takes up a great deal of my life. It is my “job” for lack of a better term, and I’m grateful to be able to work from home with a flexible schedule, but I’m also determined to have a better blog/life balance so that I really can focus on some other industrious projects, as well as spend time volunteering at the school and do more in my service at church/temple. And also, naps. I’m not opposed to them either…or hanging out with my chicks. Ok, talk to me, how is your school year shaping up (public schoolers AND homeschoolers)?
School Lunch Thoughts: Piggybacking on the school year thoughts above, we are still staying strong with the school lunch checklist I shared last year in this post (also included in that post are some free, downloadable menu plans to save your sanity during the busy startup of school). After almost 10 years of using them, we finally broke up with our long-loved Goodbyn lunch boxes in favor of these pack-it freezable lunch boxes {aff. link} to keep everything cold, and so far, the system of kids packing their own lunches each day is going pretty well (my 14-year old who is a freshman in high school graduated to a simple brown paper bag as his packing preference). I have to monitor Ms. First Grader’s lunch box to make sure it isn’t packed chock full of only chips and fruit leathers, but other than that, the other kids are pretty self-sufficient.
Book Thoughts: So many of you recommended A Gentleman in Moscow when I reached out for book recommendations a few months ago. It took me a while to download it to my Audible app and even longer to actually start listening to it. And if I’m being honest, the first few chapters (maybe even more than that) almost put me to sleep (not super awesome since I was utilizing it as a way to keep me entertained and awake on a long drive last month).
But I persevered after consulting some friends who promised it would be worth it, and I am officially a repentant book listener. I have about 1/4 of the book left, and I am enthralled, and dare I say, obsessed (think: listening to it whenever and wherever I can; Brian looked at me very strangely when I had it at max volume this morning while blowdrying my hair with my head bent upside down). It’s an insanely long audiobook (17 hours or something), but I’ve been listening at 1.25X speed and using it as my clean-the-house incentive, among other things. The brilliantly descriptive, almost magical, writing style makes up for the slow start. I highly recommend this book (maybe avoid the Audible version if you want to get through it more quickly?). Have you read it? What did you think?
Alaska Cruise Thoughts: I shared in my newsletter and on Instagram that Brian and I took a first-ever cruise this summer to celebrate our anniversary in August. We went on an Alaska cruise, and I have so many thoughts to share about it. But since I don’t want to bore anyone with too many details, I’ll just share a couple:
-For first-time cruisers without anything to compare it to, our experience was pretty great in terms of service, hospitality, accommodations, etc. We went with Princess Cruise lines and booked everything through them including airfare, excursions, etc. (we took the easy way out on this one and I don’t regret it for an instant). We decided on an inside passage route (Anchorage to Vancouver) with ports at Ketchikan, Skagway and Juneau.
-So many people have asked me what I thought about the food. Um. Hmmm. Let’s see. What to say? It was ok. I mean, it was good! But not lifechanging. Maybe I had my expectations set too high (a very distinct possibility), but I was a little underwhelmed, particularly by the buffet. However, Brian wants me to mention that the 24-hour access to hot chocolate and ice cream was pretty amazing. One of my favorite parts of the cruise was taking a tour of the galley and meeting the head chef. The kitchen (we only saw one of the many on board) was absolutely amazing and kind of overwhelming – it’s hard to wrap my mind around how much food they make every day for so many people. Crazy.
-The weather, always unpredictable in Alaska, was pretty terrible during our 7-day cruise. There were a lot of experienced cruisers on our ship, and they all commented that this was the worst weather they’d had on any Alaska cruise. It was foggy almost the whole time so we didn’t see much scenery while on the ship, and it was pretty cold and rainy at all the ports.
The good news is that because the experience was so novel to us, we still loved it, and we really, really enjoyed the time we had to spend together – just the two of us. Would we go on an Alaska cruise again? I’m not sure about that. I’m not exactly a world-traveler (the gift of wanderlust is a bit lost on this homebody who gets a some anxiety traveling and leaving home), but the experience and majesty of Alaska was amazing and definitely a once in a lifetime experience even with the foggy conditions. I don’t know if we caught the “cruising bug” exactly, but it was a pretty awesome trip all things considered, especially getting off and exploring the seaside towns. Have you gone on a cruise? If so, WHERE? And what did you think?
-I took this petite gray backpack {aff. link} to Alaska and wore it everywhere. It was awesome. For being on the smaller side, it had so much functional space and so many helpful compartments; I loved it, and it was a lifesaver for a one-bag solution. It even fit my DSLR camera with a fairly big lens and an umbrella. I’m still using it as a purse-slash-backpack now that I’m home. I also wouldn’t have survived without my beanie {aff. link}, this waterproof windbreaker {aff. link} and these Sorel wedge boots that I wore straight out of the box (I know, not smart), but they ended up being surprisingly and incredibly comfortable. I wore them nonstop and consider them well worth the splurge (they were on a 50% off sale on sorel.com in August; they are certainly more spendy now in leadup to winter). I’ll wear them for many winters to come I’m sure.
Also, the picture below has nothing to do with anything except that our high school mascot is the Vikings and my sister made this Viking braid beanie for me and I love it and I will continue to embarrass my children by wearing it every day to pick them up from school as well as at the next high school football game. Go Vikes! 🙂
Ok, I think that’s it for today! A huge reward (cookies?) if you made it through that whole post! Let me know YOUR thoughts below!
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277 Comments on “Friday Thoughts”
Hey Mel! I’m planning a cruise to Alaska in August and wondering what excursions you did and if you liked them/were they worth the money?
Also I love your book recommendations!
Thanks!
Hey Ashlee – I hope you have a great time! We did a ziplining excursion, the White Pass and Yukon Railway, and the Mendenhall helicopter glacier tour. All three were amazing (although the helicopter one almost didn’t happen because of weather; I guess that’s common). We had saved up specifically for the excursions so we chose a few of the more pricey ones but we didn’t regret it. They were all three incredible!
I read this post way back when you posted it but I’m not sure if anybody ever asked you about what you wore to formal night on the cruise? I’m looking for a short, modest dress that packs well. Do you have any experience with that? It goes without saying that I read every post and love them. You’re so relatable. Anytime we have other people over to dinner and they ask about my meal my kids say it’s most likely Mel’s! I smile and say it sure is!
Hey Katie! I kept it SUPER simple for formal night because I wasn’t about to spend a lot of money on a formal dress I’d never wear again. I have a black knee length dress from Ann Taylor I got on clearance about 4 years ago that I still wear. I brought some black strappy high heeled sandals to wear with it on the cruise and a long necklace to dress it up a bit. Unfortunately, the dress isn’t sold anymore but it’s similar to this one: https://www.anntaylor.com/matte-jersey-wrap-dress/485248?skuId=26731995&defaultColor=2222&catid=cata000012 it’s kind of spendy for a dress, but if you wear it for as many years as I’ve worn mine, it’s probably worth it! Good luck!
Thanks for from the suggestion. I agree that keeping it super simple is the way to go. That dress is even $50 off right now! Thank you for being so sincere and sweet with your replies. You are an online treasure!
I’ve never taken an ocean cruise – way too many people for my taste – but I have taken numerous river cruises in Europe with Uniworld. The evening meals are AWESOME gourmet experiences, lots of choices, professionally presented, nicely sized small portions, which you need for 5 courses! Breakfasts and lunches are upscale buffets. Don’t let a mass market cruise experience turn you off travel completely, try a small ship (100 passenger) tour instead, you will be amazed at how different the experience is.
And I feel for you about the BC West Coast weather – we sailed the coast every summer when I was a kid, one year it would be sunny every day, the next year it seemed to rain every day. But still breathtakingly beautiful (provided you could see it through the fog, of course!)
I have two kids. I always pictured myself as a typical Mormon mom with 6-12 kids. 😉 now that my second is almost 3 and no third on the way I am faced with the possibility that my life is not going to be what I planned years ago. I was really starting to freak out about what I am going to do when they are both in school. So I started a blog. Eek. I have only published a few posts but it has already helped with my anxiety. I have really enjoyed your posts and recipes. Thank you for your inspiration!
I have been meaning to come to your site and read this post for over two weeks! Love your Friday Thoughts (along with everything else) and meant to comment on the last several of these posts but never got around to it. Your post on schedules earlier in the summer was awesome and helped me so much. Our summer schedule did not look exactly like yours but one of your ideas gave me the missing piece I had been trying to think of for weeks! Thank you! And I REALLY want to hear more about your jean discoveries (I think about buying a “real” pair of jeans often, but I’m afraid to spend so much money and just keep going back to Old Navy jeans that are on sale) as well as hear more about the way piano practice has changed in your family (help!). Perhaps a Friday Thoughts post that includes the best nuggets and ideas you have gotten from your readers?
I’m struggling with our schedule now that school is back in swing. Hard to fit in all the “things” (homework, piano, jobs/chores) and still give my kids some down time, which I feel is very important. And I’m with you on how quickly the day goes by. I still have one child at home, but he is easy enough that I already know that after he starts school I’m still going to look back at each day and wonder how I got nothing done. After feeling the nudge for some time, I recently started a public instagram account (I’m a dietitian) and have really struggled with finding the time to keep up with it. I have often thought of you and wondered how you do it. I am sure most people can’t imagine how much of your time it takes up. Thank you.
On travel, I’m a 40 year-old homebody like you, but we occasionally find ourselves living overseas with my husband’s government job and definitely make the most of travel opportunities while we are far from home and the opportunity clock is ticking. (We say we will take the same approach when when we go back to the US but never do.) At any rate, because we currently live in a “hardship” post, we are alloted travel expenses home (or elsewhere) during our tour, and while a cruise is not my top choice for seeing destinations, it counts as travel so we are sailing from Athens to Rome with several stops in between with our kids next summer. Traveling with kids is hard, but I think several aspects of cruising will make things easier and we could never visit so many places with them otherwise. They had better appreciate it! 😉
Thanks for the book recommendation! Since you have a bunch of boys, may I recommend The Boys in the Boat and Unbroken? They are both nonfiction books about boys who overcame obstacles to accomplish great things. Even though I usually prefer fiction, I loved these books. I gave the young readers versions to my 13-year-old boy to read and he couldn’t put them down, and I felt good about him branching out from the fantasy books he usually reads.
I didn’t even think of looking for young reader versions of those books. Thank you!
The very first thing I noticed is your oldest is wearing a Penn State shirt! We Are! My oldest went away to college last year and this year she came back! She is at community college and is home what seems like all the time now. With the other 2 in school all day this has been a new challenge to make her feel loved and still have me time. God has a plan and it will all work out.
We organize lunches the night before when possible and little guy packs 5 snack bags on Sunday night. I have never been on a cruise and I love your blog!
Thanks for the comment, Helen! My son is a HUGE fan of the Penn State wrestling program. 🙂
Hi Mel —
I enjoy your blog and your recipes — thank you. This time you hit one of my favorite topics so I have to chime in.
First — Gentleman in Moscow — I liked it very much. Not much action, but all about kindness and heart. Second, my two recommendations: The Peaceable Kingdom, by Jan de Hartog. Nominated for a Nobel in 1972. It is a fictional account of the origins of the Quaker way of life. It doesn’t require that you agree or believe — it describes people trying to do the right thing by their lights. Then, A Vision of Light, by Judith Merkle Riley. This is the story of a young woman in the 1300s who is also trying to do the right thing. Both stories are heartwarming and uplifting (and make me want to be a better person). If you try one, I’d be interested in your thoughts.
Oh, I’m so excited about those book recommendations, Margaret! They seem exactly like the books I’m after right now. THANK YOU!
I just moved to Alaska (my husband is in the military), and all of August was rainy in Anchorage. September has been spectacular though – you need to come back! Fall is in full swing here, and it’s gorgeous! Fly into Anchorage, rent an RV and drive up to Denali! It’s amazing! Love your Viking beanie – way to work it!
Yes, I DO think I need to come back!
My husband and I have been on three cruises–one to the Bahamas 25 years ago that was forgettable and two to Alaska, both with Holland America. In 2013, we did a two-week land and sea package with members of my husband’s family, and in 2016 we did a weeklong cruise with just the two of us. Both were amazing.
We LOVED Alaska! So much so that even though we were planning to do the New England-Canada cruise in 2016, just before we booked it my husband said, “Let’s go back to Alaska.” And we did.
Did you go zip-lining? When we were in Ketchikan in 2013, I went zip-lining (and had a blast) and my husband went to the Misty Fjords.
Love reading your blog and perusing your recipes. One of your brownie recipes has become my go-to.
Hey Beth! I love that you have loved your Alaska cruises so much! After reading this thread, I wish we would have gone on Holland America instead of Princess Cruises (although we still had a great time). Both Brian and I did a ziplining excursion and it was one of my favorites even though I was super nervous!
Mel, this is such a fun post, as these Friday ones always are! Love how you are always so real. I am glad you got to go away on a trip with your husband–so special–and you deserve it after you do so much for everyone else. We did our first cruise last summer to the eastern Caribbean on Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean) and though it was fantastic. I really liked the food and the service was amazing. I figure if I don’t have to shop, cook, and clean it up, I am pretty happy and not too hard to please when I am on vacation. I would love to do a European river cruise sometime. We have also done a few all-inclusives, which in my opinion have been fabulous (Beaches Turks & Caicos was our favorite). The Beaches ones are so family friendly and fun for everyone. My boys are older so our new thing is we have been doing week long vacations in big cities. We’ve been to San Diego, San Francisco, New Orleans, and Charleston in the last couple of years and have absolutely loved it–so much to see and do. We all do love the outdoors very much and enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, etc. Our favorite new place to go is Attean Lake Lodge in Jackman, Maine. It is a very special place and we have been there the last 3 summers. What a place to relax and unwind off the grid–I know it’s far for you, but if you are ever on the east coast, check it out (and come see me in Connecticut!).
I’ve been at at-home mom for the last 20 years and have loved every minute. This year was a big change for me also as my younger son went off to college in NYC and my oldest son, who attends college in Philadelphia, is now studying in Madrid for the fall semester. It was a bit stressful getting them ready towards the end of the summer. They both seem very happy and adjusted so far (you know that expression, “you are only as happy as your least happy child”) so if they are happy, I am. And although I really miss them, my husband and I are really adjusting quite nicely, LOL. It reminds us how much we loved spending time together before the kids (we just celebrated our 25th last month). We have a couple of little weekends away planned, but are just enjoying spending our evenings and weekends together and taking walks and drives together, which we both love. The day does really go by fast, but I am looking forward to doing a lot of projects I’ve been putting off for so long. For several years, I have been volunteering at a food pantry a couple of days a week and doing volunteer fundraising for a non-profit, so that also keeps me busy, too. Now I am looking forward to taking some cooking classes for fun, incorporating even more yoga and exercise classes into my week (I am taking my first Zumba class tonight and am kind of scared as I am definitely not a dancer!), and continuing to enjoy my time with my many at-home mom friends, who are so special to me. Thank you for sharing all this fun in this post. Love it so much! xo
Hi Mel – I love your Friday thoughts! The school year has its ups and downs. We’re public schoolers in a pretty impoverished small southern town. I’m grateful for many aspects of my and my children’s experience in our school setting, and there are challenges, too. We’re butting up against those challenges already this year, and it’s tough to know when to step in/pray and when to hang back & wait/pray. I’m feeling better about school lunches, though, just by purchasing a few reusable containers. Just knowing I’m sending far fewer plastic baggies into the trash is encouraging…baby steps, right?! The book you mentioned is on my list, and I had heard the same things about it – slow to start, but hang in there, you’ll not regret it, etc. I’m feeling it for winter, so I’m shelving it for now. BUT, I did read a delightful book recently: “The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax” – an easy, enjoyable, well-written novel from the 1960’s or 70’s – can’t quite remember now. It’s so refreshingly fun, while also being suspenseful. I really liked it. We have not been on a cruise before, but I think I’d like to, someday. My husband’s boss went on one of the cruises through Europe, the ones they always advertise on PBS, and the pictures he sent of his food – alone! – make me want to sign over my firstborn & jump aboard! 🙂 However, we probably needed to have started saving as toddlers in order to make that happen….! Thanks for your thoughts & questions. I appreciate you!
Thanks for the book recommendation, Nancy! Sounds right up my alley. So, so many people are saying those European cruises are where it’s at! I don’t know if another cruise is in our future, but I think if one is, I’m going to look into that (and start saving like you mentioned – yikes!). Good luck with the school year. It sounds as if your location and circumstances pose a unique set of challenges that can be rewarding…and HARD! Hang in there, my friend!
Hi Mel, Please come back to Alaska!!
Forget the cruise ship: just come on up to Petersburg (the MOST beautiful town in all of Southeast Alaska) and stay a few days with us! Living here over 30 years as an Idaho transplant, I still am amazed at the beauty of this place! Bring your kids, or just you and your hubby! I love your blog, recipes and humor, and would love to meet you. I too, have 5 kids – all boys and more fun than possible- and it’s true: they do leave you.
Hey Donna! I definitely think we WILL be back to Alaska. The beauty totally captured us and we want to bring our kids back. Thanks for the recommendation (and invitation) to Petersburg – I will definitely let you know if we find ourselves up that way (although I don’t think I’d ever subject you to our chaos…haha!)
Hi, Mel, Before giving up on cruises, you MUST go on a Viking Riverboat Cruise, the Rhine or the Danube rivers. We just returned, and the food was absolutely amazing. ( think orzo with truffles. Salmon Benedict…) Quiet, romantic, non-touristy, but no kids under 18.
We are in our 70’s, and had never been to Europe, so it was time.
Love the hat! I remain a faithful follower. I hardly use my Kitchen Tested cookbooks anymore since I found you! Have you been approached by Food Network yet? Wink wink:) BTW, your sweet and sour chicken recipe is the BOMB!
Nancy, that river cruise sounds amazing! I think several other people recommended that exact same one in the comment thread. Wow! That would be a dream. (And thanks for your sweet words – SO happy you love the recipes! We just made the sweet and sour chicken tonight and Brian declared it, for the 100th time, his favorite meal in the history of ever!).
Cruises – we did an Alaska cruise ad well and sounds like it was similar in the places we went to port at. We did have great weather so that has an impact. We loved Alaska. It was our first cruise and for seeing Alaska it was great. I am not sure I would do another cruise. We definitely did not catch the big. And for me the food was good. Just good, nothing great. I thought the buffets were just so-so. I have family that loves the food so I had high expectations. Oh well, I didn’t go for the food. The best meal we had was on one of our excursions we had a fish fry – the fish was so fresh. So there is that.
I agree, seeing Alaska was amazing! And the food was decent. But after reading all these comments, I think if we vacation again, I’m going for a land trip (plan our own adventure), a river cruise in Europe (ha! That’s a dream) or some kind of all inclusive resort. So many options! Considering this Alaska cruise was our first real vacation as a couple in 16 years, it’ll be a while before we have to make that decision. 🙂
Has someone already said this? I didn’t read ALL the comments, but seriously, listen to the audiobook on a faster speed. I highly recommend teaching yourself to listen at 2.0x. You’ll be amazed that it doesn’t sound like chipmunks, you get used to it really fast, and that’s about the right pace for storytelling, IMO. I’ve listened to A LOT of audiobooks :). A Gentleman in Moscow wasn’t one of my favorite books, I’ll be honest. I have thoughts on it, but basically it wasn’t my cup of tea. Have you read Educated? That’s a huge page turner, and I loved it with my LDS, homeschooling, married to an Idaho boy heart. If you like a little YA Scorpio Races is amazingly narrated–one of those books that improves with narration. And…if you can handle some swearing I love Liane Moriarty’s books as audiobooks.
I’ve tried faster but 1.25X is about all I can take. My brain must move slower. 🙂 I haven’t read those books but thanks for the recommendations!
I have no real words of wisdom but just so you know, these years of school will go by quite soon and they will be off on their own (as your friend put it!). And if your family is like mine, you’ll be ushered in to taking care of your parents after your kids are grown. Yep, I’m sandwiched in and although it’s been a few years since this has been the case, I am struggling to find balance in what I *really* want to do and what my parents need.
Lunchboxes – my kids ate school lunches and then came home and devoured leftovers that were homemade. To this day, as adults, they love leftovers. (insert heart-eyes emoticon here!).
I just got the book “Joyful” from the author that wrote it – Ingrid was at a work function for the company I work for. Haven’t started it as reading is on the back burner as I juggle things.
I have never been on a cruise. Maybe one day, but I hope to go somewhere warm.
Vikings – I live in Vikings territory and cannot stand football. What did you think of yesterday’s game? LOL
I finally made dinner on Friday night – homemade spaghetti. Not your recipe, sorry, but the troops (couple of them were at my house for dinner) loved it. Great food still makes my world go around.
Went back to read about school lunches and noticed that you were actually talking about your high school, i.e. Vikings mascot. Oops LOL
Good luck with your busy life, Becky! That would be an interesting turn of phase to have kids leave and then take care of elderly parents. I can see how that would be a struggle to find balance. Thanks for the book recommendation!
I’m not yet at the point of all-kids-in-school. I still have a 1.5-year-old, so it’ll be a few years! But my next youngest started kindergarten this fall and my days have been amazingly quiet! I haven’t had one baby at home since I was still at BYU and working for Res Life while I finished by degree, so it’s kind of a new experience for me. I too have had grand ideas of projects completed (painting and quilting are also on my list), but none of that has happened. Why does the rest of life have to take so much of my quilting time? I put that book on hold. Thanks for the recommendation. I have to say, I didn’t like Rules of Civility though. It was fun to read about your cruise! We haven’t cruised, but my husband and I lived in Juneau for a summer back in 2009 and saw all the boats and tourists coming through. It’s pretty beautiful when the weather isn’t miserable. Checking out your lunch box recommendation now!
Hey Vicky – thanks for chiming in! If I’m learning anything from this comment thread it is that life’s phases come at you fast, and I think we are all doing our best to be as adaptable as possible (even though it’s hard sometimes!). Glad you have a bit more quiet…and good luck getting those projects done. If you find the magic secret to doing so, let me know. Haha. Interesting about Rules of Civility!
I really enjoyed Gentleman in Moscow but I wasn’t blown away by it. It was pretty slow for my taste. I enjoyed Amor Towles other book Rules of Civility better. He creates these amazing characters and beautiful scenes. I’ve recently discovered Neil Gaiman. I don’t know anyone who writes like him. I think he’s considered Fantasy. He wrote The Ocean at the End of the Lane and Neverwhere which are great stories. He’s most known for American Gods which is very interesting but has some questionable language and the “bad” guys are pretty crass.
I finished A Gentleman in Moscow this week, too. I had started it a few times, but was also a little bored. I’m so glad I pushed through this time. So good! I highly recommend his other novel, Rules of Civility.
Thanks, Rudi! Lots of recommendations for Rules of Civility!
I picked that book for my book club month and half way through listening to it on audible, I changed my mind and book! I couldn’t stay awake and found it SO boring! Maybe I need to endure it again per your suggestion? I loved hearing about your cruise. That’s on my bucket list!
Let me know what you think if you start the book again!
Mel, I love your posts and feel like we’d be best friends in real life. My kids tease me about talking about “my friend Mel”. Love your recipes and I especially love and appreciate the weekly menu you post at the bottom of your home page. About 85% of what I cook comes from you. So thanks!
1-about school lunches, after reading your post a while back, I instituted the same type of thing with my kids (I have 7). But in a much simpler form. It goes like this: at least one fruit and one veggie, and no more than one thing from the pantry. They pack their own lunches and do a pretty good job keeping things balanced and healthy.
2-cruises. I’ve only been on one with my husband. Alaskan cruise on Royal Caribbean cruiseline. It was fabulous, and we were lucky to get fantastic weather with lots of clear skies. My favorite part was being able to focus 100% on being a wife and friend to my spouse. I think it’s so important to create time to focus on marriage and connect without distractions.
3-I start the new phase of “all kids at school all day” next school year and am seriously dreading it. I tear up frequently just thinking about it. I love my little 4 year old boyfriend who I get to hang out with all day. At the same time, I get excited thinking about how much more efficient I’ll be able to move throughout my day and get my tasks done. I teach piano before and after school right now and am hoping to add some homeschooled students during the school day next year to keep me busy and earning money. Hold onto and cherish your time with your kids. . . my oldest left the nest a year ago on a mission, then off to college. Life is short.
Enjoy your nice 70’s degree weather. I live in the beautiful desert of Arizona, and we’re still high 90’s during the day. When you’re covered in snow, we’ll be enjoying nice 70’s degree weather. There are trade-offs!
Tell Brian hi. I was his ballroom dance partner our BYU freshman year. Such a good guy!
Hi Mel,
I enjoy reading your blog and trying your recipes. I check out your website about once per week and enjoy reading about your family. Piano Lessons? I was a piano teacher for 10 years before going back to public music education K-5. My PhD is in music education. I think I can answer any questions you may have about helping with piano lessons and teaching music to children.
Happy to Help,
Susan Hines
Greensboro, NC
Thank you so much, Susan! What a generous offer! I might be sending you an email soon with my questions!
Oh my goodness, Mel, you are adorable all around, but that Viking hat picture is so cute! You make me want to get one . . . too bad that’s not our mascot! As far as the school year is going, is it bad that I have proclaimed several times already that I hate this whole year? Trying to get up in time to make breakfast and lunches and get 4 kids out the door by 7:40 is killing me, especially on the days we have piano lessons before school (bless their teacher). I keep thinking I’m going to make one of your overnight breakfasts but fall asleep each night before I can. I am definitely going to start utilizing your school lunch checklist, though. Thanks! So, I just did a quick perusal of some of the other comments, and think it says wonderful things about you that so many of us feel like we would be real-life friends if we lived near each other. You are just such a likable person. Thanks for the great recipes and the glimpses into your life that help us all get to know you better.
You are the cutest, Corinne. 🙂 And my goodness, I hear you on the schedule thing. I actually really like schedules – they make me happy and feel centered but trying to get out of the house on time in the mornings is going to kill me off, too. Hang in there.
I just wanted to let you know that I love your posts and recommendations. I have bought several things off Amazon that you wrote about ( my favorite is the Victorinox knife you suggested – I use it ALL the time!) I also love your recipes and just reading about your experiences. I look forward to your posts, so thank you!
I have never been on a cruise and probably won’t ever go on one. I tend to be a stay at home type. I do enjoy hearing about other peoples trips though.
I think the better a cook is, the less impressed we are by food when we eat out. In general I like to eat out where I am eating something I don’t fix myself. On the other hand, people who eat out a lot and don’t cook much enjoy eating things that don’t impress me. Maybe I’m just a bit odd?
I haven’t read that book, but I have read and recommended:
To the Last Salute by Georg Von Trapp ( this is the autobiography of his WWI submarine service ) I read the book on this one.
Write it when I’m Gone by Thomas M DeFrank ( Bio of Gerald Ford)
Ladies of Liberty by Cokie Roberts ( post revolutionary history based on lives of presidents wives and women during the span of John Adams presidency to John Quincy Adams)
The last two I listened to as audio books and really enjoyed. I listened in the car and they worked well in small doses during my short trips to volunteer and shop.
I’m in that retirement stage, and enjoying time for volunteer work, reading and crafts. I’m sure you will adapt to this new stage in your life. Each stage has its own joys, but we have to give ourselves time to adjust.
Bless you for all your efforts and time spent sharing recipes and your life with us.
Love these recommendations!
Wow! I was going to read through the comments but didn’t realize how many there are. Friday posts bring out all the comments! Thanks for these- it’s interesting to hear what’s on your mind, especially to discover it’s a lot of the same as many of us. My youngest started kindergarten so even though it’s half day and the morning FLIES by, I definitely feel I’ve entered a new stage of life since it’s the first time in 10 years that I’ve had regular time alone (no preschool so it was 24/7 before). It’s also bittersweet since I’ve left a stage of my life that I was finally getting better at- having little kids at home, going to the park, moms groups, outings, etc. it’s sad to know I won’t be packing a snack and going to meet other moms at the park at 10am, idly passing the hours with nothing else on the agenda.
I’ve been on 3 cruises, all with my husband before kids (he likes cruises). We did the California coast/Catalina, México, and Bermuda. I mostly enjoyed them, though it’s not my favorite vacation. If you do ever want to do another cruise, the best one for good/better food is (or at least was) Celebrity Cruise line. They’re known for having better food, and I did notice a significant difference. It’s nice to not have to worry about making any big decisions once you’re on the ship, but it felt almost too scheduled for me (obviously you don’t have to go to anything but sitting in your cabin all day isn’t super fun), and all the clothing changes weren’t exactly my cup of tea. I prefer a bit of spontaneity and exploration- the element of an unexpected adventure or having an amazing meal at a local favorite or meeting people and having great conversation. Being an introvert this can still feel overwhelming and hard to pull off, but it’s happened many times and those are my favorite travel memories. Train travel is my absolute favorite, and allows for all of the above. Once with a detailed itinerary, my husband and I last minute decided to jump off the train in San Sebastián, Spain because we couldn’t imagine not spending a couple days in such gorgeous scenery. And sometimes just lounging on a beach reading a good book all day (and napping) can’t be beat.
Happy start of the school year/what do you want to be for Halloween/what am I making for Thanksgiving/I can’t believe it’s almost Christmas season. And thanks for the lunch bag rec. Enjoy!
I love your travel thoughts so much, Jennifer! I agree that cruises definitely aren’t for the spontaneous traveler, but I can see why they appeal to people (and why we loved so many parts of it!). I think I’m learning that I need to really push myself out of my comfort zone for travel (any type) and I need to experience more types before I really decide how I feel about it all. haha. Good luck with this new phase of school/family life!
Sorry, correction to my earlier post re: Alaskan train to Denali should be 10 hrs. not 20.
Loved hearing about your cruise! Making spaghetti pie tonight! I always look forward to reading your posts and trying your recipes.
Thanks, Michelle!
We have never been on a cruise instead opting for all-inclusive resorts in Mexico. We love the 24 hour access to all food and treats, staying in one spot and having access to the beach the whole vacation. We love it and are taking our kids again in October. Someday I’d like to do a cruise but I get so motion sick that I’m nervous! Thanks for the book recommendation!
1. I am in your same boat this school year. First time they are all in school. It is shocking to me how little time I actually have, but also nice. I started teaching one class at the local community college and that has been a fun professional adventure for me.
2. I loved Gentleman of Moscow but most people I talk to have the same reaction you did. It is a slow start but a beautiful book. Glad you are enjoying it. (Thanks, by the way, you got me hooked on Revisionist History. It is amazing!)
3. We did an Alaskan Cruise and loved it. We went on the Holland America line where the food was life changing, however these days any vacation with my husband counts. Glad you got some time with yours.
4. Love the hat!!!!
How fun, Emily! What are you teaching? And I’m so happy you are loving the RH podcast. I’m anxiously awaiting a new season to start. Our friends also had rave reviews about Alaska cruises through HOlland America and I’m wishing now we would have gone through them instead of Princess. It was still an amazing trip, though. 🙂
Hi Mel. OH my goodness, what did you feed Jackson this summer? what a hunk he’s becoming!! the girls at Middleton High are sure to take notice. We have lost our cellar dwellers to their new home, so now we have 4 unused bedrooms and would love to have some company. If you can’t cruise the oceans, cruise on over here. Greg dug up the zucchini plant the other day, so that must mean fall is here ( or maybe he’s had it with zucchini). Miss you tons. Michele
Well you better be careful what you offer because you know we’ll probably take you up on that. Miss your humor and wisdom and general awesomeness SO much. And Jackson has a smile as wide as the Mississippi after reading your comment. Of course I turned to him and said “I hope the girls are NOT taking notice” haha.
Thank you for making me laugh out loud this morning with that last picture! I just love you! I have followed your blog since the very beginning and I have always loved any post about your family, especially when they include pictures, because our families are so similar! I have 4 boys and one girl and they are almost identical ages to yours but my daughter came first. AND I live in Wisconsin. When I found out we were moving here 7 years ago I seriously hoped we would be in the same ward because I just knew we would become very good friends! But then you moved!!
Anyway, my last child started full day school this year and I have been vasilating between sadness and excitement over all the possibilities this extra time will offer! The kids are thriving, hope yours are too. Thanks for being so real and letting all of us be a part of your life. I love your food but I also love knowing you through your posts!
Oh thank you so much, Andrea! I really miss Wisconsin. In fact it’s funny because I have this recurring dream ALL the time that I’m driving over the Fox river in Green Bay and I wake up and almost feel like we’ve moved back. Anyway, I love that our families are so similar! And thanks for laughing at that picture as it was intended. I think it’s officially the 3rd selfie I’ve ever taken in my life. Haha.
Oh Mel, your honesty and spirit are so great in these posts!
So I actually have my youngest home with me – this is our 4th year of cyber school. He’s a senior this year! Needless to say I have a TON of anxiety about him going to college next year. I think it’s fairly unusual for a mom and 17 year old boy to have the close relationship that we have, and I am so blessed for it. I know he’s going to do awesome things in life but if I could slow down the days this school year, I would!
I have never been on a cruise and truly have zero desire to go on one. I do however have a major case of wanderlust and want a road trip every.single.weekend. but I’m a busybody and need to hike mountains and snorkel waters and have major adventures on my trips, so I think I would feel cooped up on a cruise.
As for books, an oldy but goody and favorite of mine is The Ultimate Gift by Jim Stovall. Have you read it? It’s a short book but has an AMAZING lesson to teach. I have actually been reading it out loud around the campfire to my family, because I want them to have the moral story and get their thoughts on what the Ultimate Gift would mean to them.
Thanks again for the great “talk”! Keep them coming, and the wonderful recipes, love your whole blog and family and lifestyle! ❤
Loved your comment, Rebekah! I feel sheepish because I haven’t heard of or read that book but I just ordered it on Amazon, so thanks! 🙂 I love your spirit of adventure…and admire your relationship with your son. He’s a lucky kid!
Oh Mel,
I feel like we’re friends even though you have no idea who I am. Thanks for the recipes, great thoughts, game recommendations (my kids are beyond grateful to you for suggesting Sleeping Queens), for asking people for book suggestions (I just love hearing about books people love. What are your all time favs? You’ve probably said before. Juliet Marillier? I love all sorts of books. A few of my favs are: These Is My Words, The Trapp Family Singers, Les Miserables, The Summer of the Monkeys, love so many books by Louisa May Alcott, To Kill a Mockingbird, I am Malala, and I should really stop now), and for sharing your amazingly with the world.
So, I have never cruised, something my husband is so sad about. I would much rather road trip, so I could get out whenever I want. Also, I am a home girl and get a lot of anxiety leaving my kids for too long. I’d much rather vacation as a family, but with 4 kids things get pricier. So- we go camping, National Parks, naturing, etc. a lot which makes my kids beyond happy. I asked them, “Disneyland or camping?” Each one said camping. Maybe it’s because they haven’t actually been to Disneyland yet. My poor kids.
I’m looking forward to the day all my kids are in school :), and also do not looking forward to it :(. It is definitely a laugh/cry situation. My kids range from 9-18 months, with 2 still at home, so I have a while before I’m a free range day mama, and that’s ok with me (most days:)). I’m just going to try and enjoy these sweet moments, and even not sweet moments, with my littles while I have them. One of the things my 4 year old loves to do with me is bake. She’s getting to be an excellent egg cracker. So thanks for all those recipes which create family bonding moments for me.
Really and truly, thank you, Mel.
Hey Brandi! Yes, we sound a lot alike (poor you! haha). 🙂 I honestly dreaded the day my kids went to school; as hard and chaotic as days at home can be, I really, really love having my kids around me. But as the years go by and I realize that they need wings to fly (sounds cheesy, but really, I want them to launch one day into successful adults and I’m learning that takes daily opportunities to practice with those wings), I’m doing better at letting them go (during the day to school and in other situations). But I always get a little weird and melancholy around the transitional times (i.e. start of school). I think the Lord blessed me with a desire and drive to get things done and an ability and love for TIME. I love time. And I love getting things done. And that helps soften the blow…and also turns it around where I get really energized by the time I have to do that. Thank goodness it has been in baby steps and all five kids didn’t just up and leave me one day for all day school together. I think it’s pretty far off that we’d take the whole family on a cruise or other big vacation mostly because we also love camping, hiking and outdoor exploring (and also, cost, yikes!). They’ve gone to Disneyland once and loved it but honestly they talk more about the fish they caught this summer then they ever have about Disneyland. Our favorite vacation ever was driving out to the Redwood National Forest and hiking around there. Amazing. I love that your 4-year old is a baker with you. Love that so much! And thanks for the book recommendations. I love anything by Juliet Marillier (well not anything, mostly the Sevenwaters series but you have to enjoy fantasy for her writing) and Susannah Kearsley. I also really love Kate Morton books. I haven’t read Louisa May Alcott in years! Time to revisit that! Thank you!
Hi Mel! I was so ready to send my 2 big kids back to school! But I was super pregnant and just had no patience left for the craziness of summer with 4 little kids at home. I just had my baby and so my kids got to have hot lunch at school for a whole week! Now it’s time to get back to making lunches. I feel like I’ve been in a rut so I’m looking forward to revisiting your list and mixing things up a bit.
My husband and I did a Hawaiian cruise for our honeymoon. It was our first and only cruise and we loved it. We did 7 days/5 ports. It is a great way to see more than one island. We traveled at night so we got to spend all day exploring the different islands.
The only book suggestion I have is don’t read All the Light We Cannot See. It’s an easy read and written by a guy from Boise, but it’s a very depressing book. There are better books written about that time period.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. 🙂
Congratulations on your baby, Stephanie!! And right at the beginning of the school year. Talk about crazy! Good luck getting into a new routine. I actually tried listening to that book years ago but could never get through it (but I had friends rave about it, so I still feel like I’m missing out??).
Love your recipes and thoughts and everything about your blog! Thanks for the work and effort!
I’ve been on a few cruises and by far the Disney cruise was the best when my kids were younger. Otherwise I love all inclusive resorts ! Villa Del Palmar has a number of places in Mexico – the all inclusive is reasonable and the results are lovely.
Books : I love love my audible account. I drive a lot for my work and it makes me want to get back in the car . A few of my latest favorites : The Winter Garden by Kristen Hannah ( and The Great Alone too !) , We Were The Lucky Ones ( historical fiction which is my favorite !) and anything Jodi Piccoult writes -I love her work -her books present a moral, societal dilemma through the story and she does a great job fleshing all all sides. Such interesting stories!
Summer -I can do relate to making it to the end. I work during the school year as a speech pathologist and I was a single mom of 2 great kids for a number of years ( they are now a freshman and senior in high school !). I got married again about 3 years ago to someone who has his kids for summers and some holidays. My stepchildren do not come from an idyllic situation -when they come for the summer we try to model what a typical family looks and functions like ( not perfect by any chance !). It’s a sad tragic situation that isn’t changing so we are trying to make the best of it. So, easy summers with my own 2 kids have moved to busy, hard summers with 6 kids. By the end I want to run away and I am spent. I usually leave towards the end of their visit to take my kids to visit my family and spend time with them while my husband can spend some alone time with his children. Mixed families are hard and no matter what it takes a desire to make it work. 🙂 I am grateful and very happy but definitely struggle with the end and summer overall! My husband and I also try to spend sometime alone after his kids go back as a way to regroup and relax.
I set things up as summer gets started with lists and meal plans and structure but by August I’m just grateful they are taking their shoes off in the house. It’s time for me to go back to work too and if I don’t feel like I’ve had much of a break it’s harder to jump back in.
There are so many stages of our lives and seeing all your kids off to school is definitely a transition. Take care of you and recharge while they are away. It makes us better moms !
You are the 2nd person to say all inclusive resorts are where it’s at (and the millionth to say Disney cruises are IT!). I’ve read and loved both of those books by Kristin Hannah! (Started The Great Alone on the tail end of our Alaska cruise and it was great timing). I haven’t read We Were the Lucky Ones but thanks for the recommendations. I’ve loved a lot of Jodi Picoults books, too. Thank you! And wow, you are a selfless and amazing woman to embrace a new kind of summer with your kids and your step kids. It sounds incredibly challenging and I think you are wise to acknowledge that instead of looking for a fairy tale situation. I don’t blame you for wanting to run away at the end…and then you jump right into work! You are a good woman. Thanks for inspiring me!
You are an inspiration as always Mel! I’m looking for a take-in meal recipe but just have to take a minute to comment. My youngest is in second grade so I went through that home-alone-all-day transition last year and, after I mourned for a couple of months, I have learned to embrace this whole stage of life. There are so many things that I have wanted to do for the last 10+ years and now I can finally do them!! (Not ALL of them of course.) You should look into cleaning the temple on Monday mornings with me! We are a little short right now and it’s so neat and uplifting and waaaaayyyyy more fun than cleaning my own house! 9-12 am and its a great way to start the week.
I have a new LOVE for Alaska. FIRST, I read “The Great Alone” which I see someone else has recommended (with good reason) and THEN my daughter got her mission call there!!! I have never been but have already requested a personally guided tour from her for summer 2021. I have been on 2 1/2 Caribbean cruises (yes, there’s a story) and might be done with cruises for a decade or so. I, too, am usually underwhelmed by the food yet amazed by the staff’s ability to produce it! However, cruises are a good way to see a lot of different places in one trip so maybe I’ll be eating my words and going on another one sooner than I have planned. Hopefully not Alaska though – I want to fly around in those little seaplanes and see all kinds of different landscapes.
Keep up fighting the good fight and omigosh your three middle boys look like triplets in that picture! (Insert heart eyes).
Lori, that’s so true about embracing the new phase of life…and for me, NOT feeling guilty about the time (even if it’s still cram packed with things to do and I’m busier than ever). Are you cleaning at Meridian? I actually started reading The Great Alone at the tail end of our Alaska cruise and it was perfect timing (loved the book but especially after having been there). Amazing that your daughter is serving a mission there!! And the 2 1/2 cruises certainly has a great (probably not to you) story behind it. 🙂
Yes, I help clean the Meridian Temple. It is a perfect fit for me.
Lots of thoughts but I think I lol leave them each as separate comments since I can’t think of everything right now… except for the fact that I kind of want to cry at the timing of your backpack recommendation! Just last night I said to my sister-in-law, “I need a new bag. I’m thinking a smallish backpack. It needs three compartments. I have no idea where to begin looking. I wish someone would just magically recommend one.” For real. So excuse me while I go buy my next mom bag/backpack. And thank you!!
Serious about the backpack?? Oh my goodness, I think you’ll love this one (ok, I HOPE you love this one).
Did you get the medium or the small? (And I still need to leave my additional comments lol)
I have the medium. 🙂
We did an Alaskan cruise eleven years ago. Our youngest was five and the oldest in our group was my step dad at 80! He is gone and that was his last big trip so the pictures are precious. The Great Alone was an incredible read. Especially after having just been to Alaska! Our last child got her drivers license this summer so no more need of rides to and from school where we talked and talked. . But yes they do grow and fly the coop…..our first son has been living and working in China the past year and it’s hard not having him nearby. We all love your recipes and wish you a blessed school year!
I started reading The Great Alone on the tail end of our Alaska cruise and really, really enjoyed that book! Thanks for all your thoughts, Lori!
Have been on two ocean cruises and one river cruise and I would choose river cruise, hands down! Avalon Danube river cruise! Amazing! Every single expectation we had was exceeded. Beautiful cities and countrysides to explore. Vienna concert, museum, pretzels and beer, wineries. All of this while having a great cabin and staff.
My roommate from college went on that same cruise, I think, and she also said river cruises (in Europe) are the way to go!
Yes we Alaskans know about the hit or miss weather, but overall our worst summer weather is by far in August. Whenever anyone asks me when to come up here, I always tell them June. There’s also great stuff to do out of Anchorage and even here in my town of Eagle River. Hope if you ever come back you can enjoy the grandeur because it really is spectacular!
That’s so helpful to know…thank you, Julie!
A Gentleman in Moscow is one of my favorite books. I read it last year. Loved it. Then my husband read it. Didn’t really think he would like it but he loved it as much as I did. He said it was Cold Mountain good. Which is another of our favorite books. The picture of you and your hubby on the cruise is great. Looks like fun.
Glad you mentioned this, Patti, because I told Brian he should try A Gentleman in Moscow. I hope he likes it like your husband did!
We went on a cruise to Mexico over Christmas one year! My in laws and my parents & siblings all joined us and it was . Also your comments about the end of summer mirror my experience— I felt so dejected that our awesome checklists has gone out the window, glad I’m not alone!
What a fun family trip, Lyndsey! And glad other moms hit end of summer like we did (misery loves company, I guess??). 🙂
Mel, my husband and I took the same cruise, our first, to Alaska the first week in August on the Coral Princess from Vancouver to Whittier with stops at Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. It was all the same weather you described with maybe a few more sunny days on shore. I, too, agree that the buffet was so so with the exception ice cream was available on demand. We also took the land tour to Denali bis a 20 hr. train ride. The scenery was spectacular.
Several people we talked to took the land tour to Denali and said it was AMAZING! Sounds like we missed out on that!
OK first off, our high school mascot is the Vikings too! Go Vikes!
Second, It was my first year with all the kids in school all day too (junior, freshman, 5th and 1st). I seem to be bored and yet lacking motivation to do anything productive… I hope that passes.
Third, I started having the kids pack their own lunch three years ago. So my oldest was in eighth grade and my third son was in second grade. Sounds like that last one got the wrong end of the deal .
Finally, We have never been on an Alaska cruise but we have been on a couple others with the kids and we really love it. I feel like it’s the cheapest way to get us on vacation. We have only gone Mexico cruises out of LA, saving the airfare. We have done carnival and princess and the buffet for sure was better on carnival. The main dining room was pretty comparable. I hope you give it another try sometime, maybe with the family! Enjoy the school year!
Yay for having the same mascot. So fun! Haha, same situation here with packing lunches. We just started a year or so ago with them packing their own which means my oldest son got the benefit of me packing his lunch for a lot longer than anyone else! Perks of being oldest (he’d tell you today that’s one of the only perks, poor kid). Thanks for the tips on the cruises you’ve enjoyed!
I borrowed A Gentleman in Moscow from my library on my kindle but they took it back after 3 weeks and I was in the slow to start portion. Now I’ll have to try again! Ha. (On a cold winter stretch when all I want to do is read).
Oh darn it! Try again!
Two things. 1. That beanie is awesome! Your sister is talented. 2. Instead of blindly searching for the answer, what did a reader comment say of teaching piano and how do you now do it?
Hey Ariel! The piano teaching thing isn’t life changing, but so many comments indicated I needed to let my kids move on to other songs even if the songs they’re currently working on aren’t perfect AND stray from the official lesson books at times to let the kids explore music they are interested in (ragtime, jazz, hymns, etc). It’s been working great for us!
We went on an Alaska cruise many years ago and I felt the same way. Now that we’re further away from the trip I think we’d go back. I love whales so the whale watching was a huge highlight for me. We also went on a Princess cruise and I was a little underwhelmed with the food. I did enjoy ice cream around the clock and the pizza/hot dog stands.
Brian wanted to see a whale badly but the fog was too much of an inhibitor. I think he’d go back just for that chance again!
My child is grown and gone so no back to school situation here, but I do remember how often after he left for college I did the “I don’t have to pack school lunch anymore” happy dance.
I have not read that book but recently read The Alice Network and quite enjoyed it. Right now Im in the middle of Dear Mrs. Hamilton and liking it.
We’ve done several cruises and determined they aren’t our idea vacation. Did the Alaska itinerary you just did, a week long one to Mexico and a two week Panama Canal one. What we do love are all inclusive resorts! We prefer to play in the water rather than on the water so being at a beach with one or more pools is heaven for us. Also, while it’s not michelin level food anywhere we’ve gone it has always been better than on a ship and the resorts have never been as crowded as the ships. Also, no noro-virus or listeria outbreaks like on ships. Nothing puts me off like having to hand sanitize at the dining room door – ugh.
Thanks for the book recommendations! I love hearing everyone’s varying thoughts on cruises. I really do think they aren’t for everyone but others wouldn’t vacation any other way! All inclusive resorts sound amazing. 🙂
I love reading your blog and there are SO many recipes that are just amazing!
I’m glad you enjoyed your Alaskan cruise. We did that a couple of summers ago, but the reverse-from Vancouver (where I’m from) to Alaska. The weather sucked for us too. We didn’t get the go on the excursion we splurged for 🙁 because of the weather (and it was August for crying out loud!) I’ve been lucky enough to go on a few cruises – Caribbean, Baltic, Alaska, and a coming up in the spring, a Disney one with the kids and one to Ireland !
I also reward myself with listening to an audiobook while doing chores – making dinner, cleaning, folding laundry, etc. Makes chores much more tolerable. (Also drowns out the kids a bit too if I’m being honest!)
Random question: how on earth do you remove your waterproof mascara? After you shared your fave one, I got it and I love it but don’t love the removal. Any tips?
Thanks, Jen! That’s such a bummer about the weather – many people on our ship had excursions canceled too and it was so disappointing. Ireland would be amazing (and I’ve heard Disney cruises are where it’s at). Ok, so waterproof mascara – I’ve used the makeup wipes (Neutrogena and now just the Costco Kirkland brand) and they work great!
I read A Gentleman in Moscow for a book group earlier this year. It took me awhile to get into it as well. It was good., but felt a little long to me. . I finished it thinking, if properly done, it would make a fascinating movie. That being said, I wasn’t left with the feeling I wanted to read anything else by the same author anytime soon.
I’ve been on two Alaskan cruises, both were the last week of July. Both had incredible sunny weather the entire time. The first was Norweigan which I liked better in terms of food and entertainment. The second was on Carnival. I only chose it because it worked with the dates I needed. It was a letdown compared to Norweigan. My husband went with me on the Carnival cruise. He had never cruised before so he thought it was great. I really enjoyed my Alaskan cruises and would love to go again with my adult children. It would be fun, but I wouldn’t pick Carnival next time.
Interesting thoughts on the Gentleman of Moscow book, Jennifer! Sounds like maybe we went a couple weeks too late to Alaska – good to know end of July might be the ticket!
I left a long comment and it didn’t show up. I’ll condense it this time. If the other one shows up though, sorry!
Books- haven’t read anything lately that I couldn’t put down, but a few that I did enjoy are “before we were yours” by Lisa Wingate and anything by liane Moriarty.
Cruise- took our first one in January. We surprised the boys for Christmas. They LOVED it and want to do that every year. Ha! Not going to happen but it did get me thinking about memories we can give instead of things. We went with royal Caribbean. The food and service were incredible and the ship, liberty of the seas, was super fun! We stopped in Cozumel, grand cayman and Jamaica. Would we do it again? I’m not sure, I’m so glad we did it once but it felt like it was so rushed at each destination. Next time I think I would rather just go to one place and take time to see more of it.
Your beanie- love, love, love it!
I really enjoy your blog posts. Thanks for taking time to share so much with all of us. I haven’t read the book you mentioned, but I am currently in love with Saving CeeCee Honeycutt. It has quickly risen to my all time favorite book. You laugh, you cry, you laugh some more and then when you finally finish it, you feel like you have made a new best friend. It is available on Audible and usually at thriftbooks.com (That’s another of my favorites)
Thanks for the book recommendation, Celeste! Adding it to my to-read list!
Kids in school- yep, it’s amazing how fast the day goes! I never get done everything I intend but that’s ok, it just back on the list for the next day.
Books- I haven’t read anything lately that I absolutely could not put down, but a few that I did enjoy, “before we were yours” by Lisa wingate and anything by liane moriarty.
Cruise- we went on our first one in January. We took the whole family. That’s what we did for Christmas instead of gifts. The boys LOVED it and want to do it every year (ha! not going to happen but it has really got me thinking about memories we can give them instead of things.) They were pretty confused Christmas morning when they got sunscreen and sunglasses in their stockings. Then under the tree I just wrapped 1 huge box for all of them. Inside was a box inside a box, inside a box, etc. In the smallest box I had typed up a letter saying we were going on a cruise and cut it into puzzle pieces. Once they put the puzzle together and read it they just stared at my husband and I for a minute. Finally Caleb said, “is this a joke?” It was so fun to surprise them like that! We went with royal Caribbean. The food and service were incredible! And the ship (liberty of the seas) was super fun! We stopped in Cozumel, grand cayman and Jamaica. Would we go again? I’m not sure. I’m definitely glad we did it but it was such a short time in each destination that we barely saw anything. Next time I think it would be fun to just stay in one spot longer and see more of it.
And I really, really love your beanie!
I really enjoyed “Before We Were Yours” – such an interesting (and sometimes heartbreaking) read for me. That is such a fun, clever Christmas gift. My kids would die!
Hi dearest Mel,
Hubby and I went on an Alaskan Cruise with Princess cruises to celebrate our 30 th wedding anniversary. We flew from Australia to Vancouver and hopped on the boat the next day. Wow what a cruise we had, the weather was absolutely perfect, the food amazing. We also did a 7 day land cruise with Princess after the cruise. We were treated like kings and queens and loved every minute of it. I have a couple of blog posts about it over on my blog if you want to have a look, it’s under the Alaska tag. Have a lovely day, Fi
What a trip, Fiona! All the way from Australia to Alaska. Amazing! So happy your weather was perfect! I’ll take a look at your posts. Thank you!
I made it to the end, and am totally ready for some cookies!! Are you sending them??? 🙂 I’ve been on one cruise, to Alaska as well. Loved it, but I’m also biased. I spent a couple summers working in Skagway (did you ride the White Pass train? I was a tour guide on that many years ago.) and I love Southeast Alaska. And I always enjoy reading your blog…you write as if you’re old friends with everyone…the way it should be, right? Have a fabulous Friday!
Haha! I should send cookies to one lucky reader for reading that whole post. You’re awesome! Yes, we rode the White Pass train and it was easily one of the highlights. So amazing! I loved Skagway. Quaint and beautiful (until it started pouring with gusting winds!).
Mel, your blog is just so wonderful. I love reading about your family and love your recipes. Here are my thoughts about this post: 1. Did you ever finish your hedgehog (or whatever animal/Elizabeth Hartman pattern) quilt? I am super curious about this and would love an update, even if it’s not complete. 2. I have a first grader. One of the most frequent items in her lunch is a butter sandwich! 😉 3. I’ve never cruised or been to Alaska, but I’m hopeful for both in the future.
Thank you, Kirsten! I was hoping no one would remember my hedgehog quilt. Haha. Ack! No, I haven’t finished it, but I DID finish the Book Nerd one. However, it was painful enough that I’m nervous to dive back into the Fancy Forest quilt. I need someone here to hold my hand. I set a goal to get all the foxes done before Christmas and to have it finished before 2019 is over?? So we’ll see.
We moved across the US this summer from New York to Washington, had several mishaps in between (including our car breaking down during our move and being stranded by myself in the middle of nowhere with three kids in tow, our housing in WA falling through at the last minute, and having to store our stuff in a different state last minute because of the housing issue… and then having to go retrieve our stuff and our car from two different states after we finally found housing), so I feel like we didn’t have a summer. We’ve only been in school for seven days, and my kids are struggling to adjust after the move. Let’s just say I’ve been eating a LOT of ice cream lately.
I just finished A Gentleman In Moscow and loved it. I highly recommend My Lady Jane if you haven’t read that one yet. I’m not a huge fan of audiobooks, but this one is really well done (and reading it is just as fun too).
I’ve never been on a cruise, but my sister in law and one of my cousins both worked in Skagway over the summer as tour guides/bus drivers. Both of them ended up getting engaged to people they worked with there! I feel like I need to go visit now. 🙂 Thanks for your Amazon recommendations – we’ve been trying to get outfitted for the Pacific Northwest, and I’ve been reading waaay too many reviews of waterproof jackets. Excited to take a look at this one.
Um, Nicki – that summer sounds ROUGH! You poor thing! Oh my goodness. I’m so sorry. Moving is so hard and helping kids adjust to new schools can be so emotionally exhausting. We’ve done it so many times and it just never gets easier. I’m sorry and I hope things get better quickly! Funny enough I read My Lady Jane on my kindle on the Alaska cruise and found it highly entertaining (I kept laughing out loud)!
Another Alaska cruise person here … 20 years ago with my mom. She and my step-Dad had tickets, then he died and she was able to transfer the ticket to me. I only went for her but ended up having a great time. Holland America and the crew, service, food was great! Was the food 4 star restaurant great – no, but we both thought it was very good. We did walking tours in all of the ports, never took the elevator in the ship and it all evened out! Neither of us were really into the entertainment. We were up early, watching scenery from wherever and enjoyed a lot of time on the top deck looking and reading. We had weather so warm that neither of us was prepared and we had to buy shorts and tshirts for our 1st week of September cruise.
Inland passage: Juneau and Ketchikan plus a day in Glacier Bay watching the Glaciers calve and seeing Puffins. Saw whales and dolphin.
Even though our cabin was on the lowest level and quite small, it served its purpose and one of the things I enjoyed was that my hotel moved vs me moving hotel to hotel. Now, I travel by RV and I think one of the reasons I enjoy that is similar: pack/unpack once and my accommodation goes with me.
Even though I enjoyed myself, I’ve not had any desire to do another cruise. The one thing that I did not like and am probably worse 20 years later, is the sense of being “stuck” and the amount of people and activity even though we chose a lot of things that were quiet.
I haven’t read that book, but looked it up and it sounds like something I’d like. I rarely watch tv or movies but read voraciously!
No kids, but my puppy is now 7 months old and much as I enjoyed little puppy, I’m really enjoying the more relaxed stage of “teenage” puppy even with its challenges. I know nothing like having kids but its what I have 🙂 And now we have an easier schedule and I CAN actually sit down and read … with him and usually the cat next to me.
Happy Fall, Happy Friday and this was a fun post as well as comments.
Wow, that’s amazing to have that warm of weather in September! Kind of jealous! Haha. Brian and I were like you – we were up and about early and on deck as much as the weather allowed (not so interested in the entertainment but we did love the naturalist’s presentations). I also felt that feeling of being stuck and I didn’t love it. Maybe I’m more of a land traveler? I don’t know. If you read A Gentleman in Moscow, email me and let me know what you think. It is lyrical and beautiful. And don’t sell yourself short! Having a puppy (and Auggie!) is no small task! You are a good momma to them!
It’s amazing how fast the “school day” goes for us Mom’s at home. After my third and last went to kindergarten I was very lost but after I realized I could do whatever I wanted it started to get better. The only piece of advice I would give other moms in the same boat is to not sit alone at the table to eat your lunch. I just turn on a fun show and eat away. I still want to use my amazing sewing machine more but I never seem to have enough time after doing other things I need to get done. How do you make time for fun projects?
I really need to look into audible. I hate reading and like you I’d love to listen to something while doing laundry and cleaning the house!!
Hey Sarah! I’m not great about making time for fun projects (honestly because I usually feel guilty; I need to get over that) but someone below in the thread said she schedules in blocks of time for those types of projects and I’m going to try that!
Love Friday Thoughts!
I love the pack it freezable lunchboxes, especially the classic model. We used the ones with velcro but it gets worn out too quickly.
I went on a cruise many years ago with Princess to Mexico Riviera. It was wonderful! Love cruises, everything included lots of things to do, and relax.
I’m alone during the day for three hours, and I agree with you: time goes by way too fast! Some days I’m very productive, others I just read. I feel good both times. It’s funny though how we want the kids out in shool and then we missed them . Thanks for sharing! Love your blog
Enjoy your time, Jocy! 🙂 (Also I had the same experience with the velcro pack-its – the ones we have now are working out much better with the zipper!)
Book: A Gentleman in Moscow – I do Audible, but this one I read and it was a page turner for me. Audible was a new experience for me this summer. I like that it allows me to enjoy more books as I listen when traveling, in the car, the ironing board, walking, etc. Some books just tend to lend themselves to audio better than others. So far my top Audible recommends are: Before We Were Yours, Educated: A Memoir, and The Great Alone. As for a delightful, light and just plain fun read: my favorite this summer was Matchmaking for Beginners by Dawson. Charming book with laugh out-loud delights.
Alaska: I just returned Sept 3 from sea and land Alaskan adventure thru Holland America. Enjoyed the whole trip, but I am more of a land person than a sea adventurer especially when faced with so many foggy days, but those quaint coastal towns ARE in the rain forest. Beautiful state! Pristine environment and air! Truly, a frontier! My favs would be the canoe trip to the Davidson Glacier, Alyeska Resort, the best salmon burger ever at Chair 5 in Girdwood, seeing the top of Denali from the McKinley Princess lodge deck at sunset, views of Humpback and Beluga whales, Grizzly bears, Longhorn Sheep, Caribou, a moose, eagles, huge and bountiful flowers with all of their rain and long days, sled dogs, and that marvelous double decker four-hour train ride scenery. We should all go at least once, but I marveled at the number of passengers I encountered there for their third for fourth trip. Should I ever be blessed to go again, I will simply fly in and rent a car to adventure more into the countryside. Safety comment: I did notice one of our back-country guides had a serious canister of bear repellent clipped to his belt. Like you, I also mostly wore my Columbia rainproof jacket, layering under according to the temperatures of the day. Only wore my gloves once and that was canoeing near the glacier.
Enjoying your blog!
Thanks for the book recommendations! I read The Great Alone on my kindle (while in Alaska on the cruise, ironically – it was a fascinating read for me). True about the rainforest; I had to keep reminding myself of that. The weather we experienced, while not great, wasn’t that unusual for the rainy area. It truly is a magical place.
My husband and I are talking about going on an Alaskan cruise. I have been on 5 cruises. I’ve been on Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and carnival. I would say Norwegian had the best food and Norwegian and Royal Caribbean both had pretty good entertainment. Carnival wasn’t my favorite but we still had an amazing time! Thanks for the tips about the Alaskan Cruise! 🙂
Thanks for the cruising tips! Sounds like you’ve had a lot of fun experience! 🙂
Love your hat, very cute! We did an Alaskan cruise with our kids-oldest was 20 at the time. To this day, whenever the vacation is brought up, he complains that I did not tell him to bring WINTER items, only to dress warm. It was very cold and sometimes rainy for us too….but still good memories. The only thing I am looking forward to about our upcoming winter is trying more of your great recipes. Thanks to you, I am considered a good cook.
Haha, so funny that your son still brings that up. Kids! I’m so happy you love the recipes – thank you!
I’m almost sorry to say I’ve never been on a cruise, and there probably isn’t enough money to pay me to go one on. I don’t have travel anxiety but i DO have anxiety about that many people in one place that i can’t get away from. I’m definitely not a herd type. I would also worry about norovirus and too much stuff like that to relax and enjoy it. I look at it this way, I’m leaving more room for people who enjoy it!
Don’t be sorry about that, Sandy! I totally hear you on the anxiety. I kind of felt that a bit there (and I was SUPER worried about norovirus but the obsessive hand washing seemed to calm my mind).
Loved your blog today! So much fun! I read A Gentleman in Moscow and I loved it so get much! My sister recommended it and honestly it is sucha dear book! Thanks so much for all your blogs…I’m an awesome cook thanks to you…this will make you laugh…my sister’s…daughter and daughters in law…speak of you as if we are all such good friends. Where did you find this game? Oh Mel told me about it…where did you get this recipe? Oh Mel gave it to me! We love you! You’ve made pour lives so much better! Thanks a bunch!
Thank you so much, Jill! Talk about making my day. You are so sweet.
Well yes, cookies. I just ate your pumpkin choc chips cookies that I made last night. I like not love them, but I don’t love a cakey cookie (I know you do). Your description made me try them–this one and another you posted a while back are the only pumpkin cookies I’ll even eat.
I have been on one cruise–I wish I could afford more. I LOVE the all-inclusive nature: feels like a vacation while trips with kids where you’re planning every meal and activity feels like work. Some of the food was really good, most was forgettable but fine.
I have not read that book, but I’ve read over 50 this year, woot! After a heavy book like that one, you should read My Lady Jane and/or My Plain Jane. Hilarious, delightful escapism.
School–so glad my kids are in it. I feel like I should be saving the world or writing a novel or building an empire now that they’re all in full day, but there’s actually still a lot of mom work required daily, so after last year turning into a productivity-obsessed anxiety-ridden mess, this year’s goal is to take life at a slower pace, focus on my kids and my health and letting myself be lazy if I feel like it (very hard for me to do!). So don’t overwhelm yourself. The blog and the kids are full-time–do more only if you really actually want to, not because you feel compelled to be more. Love your Friday thoughts and of course your recipes. You’re my only blog. 🙂
50 books! That’s amazing! And so funny you recommended those books because I read My Lady Jane on the Alaska cruise and could not love it more. It was such a delightful easy read that literally had me laughing out loud! And so true about that mom work. You really ARE saving the world (one kid at a time). 🙂 I agree about letting go of the guilt and not feeling bad for the down time; I’m trying to be better about that.
We went on a Caribbean cruise last year that stopped at Roatan (my FAVORITE!!!), Belize, and Honduras. Oh my gosh SO FUN!!! We went with Royal Caribbean and loved every minute. Roatan is an island I never would’ve thought of as a vacation site, but it was gorgeous and perfect and they had a zoo where monkeys climb on you and we got to hold sloths!! It was pretty much the best day of my life. Well, you know, aside of getting married and the births of our three boys 😉
So happy that was such a fun cruise experience for you, Jessica! Brian would have probably died of happiness to encounter a sloth in real life (let alone hold one)
We did an Alaskan cruisetour with Princess a few years ago and loved it. We went in August and had hot weather, totally unexpected. It was over 30 degrees Celsius. We spent a week on land going to different lodges that Princes has. Then after that we caught the ship in Anchorage and sailed to Vancouver. One of the better cruises we’ve been on.
That’s great weather for Alaska! There were a lot of fellow passengers who did the land tour with Princess and had nothing but good to say about it!
Hi Mel!
Great that you got away!
Princess still offers cruises going south. Try their 10-day cruise down the Pacific Baja to Mexico that goes down to Acapulco. Embarked from LA. Take it in February/after the Christmas rush. Had a wonderful time with five ports with lots to do…horseback riding through the the rainforest and up into the mountains; glass bottom boat rides; shopping for deals on silver, rum, etc.; site seeing; cultural enrichment; etc. Lots of options for excursions. Food was tasty, plentiful and exotic. Champaign midnight buffet too. Dancing, plays, crafts, cards, swimming, shopping, bars, movies, church/religious services, just lounging, whale watching, meeting people, etc! Clear every day. Only occasionally did the waves rock our world. Services and staff were attentive, efficient and very friendly. (Staff was international!) If I had any criticism, we had an inside cabin for two (twin beds) and a very small shower. I would have chosen a window cabin for natural light. However, we only slept there, did not spend really any time in the cabin, so going that direction was good to save a little money. For couples, it would be another story!
A favorite experience on the ship was being alone, on a chaise lounge on a deck at 10:00 PM listening to the waves and feeling the cool breezes!
A warmer experience in every way and something I highly recommend to defuse.
Thanks for the detailed tips on that cruise, Liz! So helpful!
Currently listening to No-drama Discipline on Audible. It’s wonderful! I only wish I had listened to it 7 years ago!
Also listened to The Trim Healthy Mana Plan. It’s changed my health and the way I fuel my body for the better. For you as a blogger and a cook/baker – you could take this knowledge and lead many more women to discover food freedom. It’s also biblically based and has so much wisdom in it. It truly follows the word of wisdom. The Trim Healthy mama plan is too fold it trims you down if you need to and it focuses on getting and staying healthy.
You can also listen to the Trim Healthy Mama podcasts too:
https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/trimhealthypodcast?selected=ADL3255762910
Here’s to more time !!!
Thanks for the recommendations, Julianne!
For our 10 year anniversary ( we just celebrated our 22) we went on a Caribbean cruise. We loved it. We want to go on an Alaskan one for our 25 anniversary. Glad you enjoyed yours!
Happy anniversary, Jen!
I love that you’re asking for comments right now! I don’t normally comment (like ever), but as a US homeschooling mom of 5 currently living in eastern Europe, I’ll take any kind of social interaction I can get.
(Home)school is going GREAT–thanks to The Good and The Beautiful curriculum and Read Aloud Revival. I really do enjoy homeschooling, and I usually feel a little jealous at the beginning of the school year when all the moms have time to DO things. ALONE. It always sounds like such a miraculous thing.
I’ve always wanted to go on an Alaskan cruise. We lived in Seattle for 8 1/2 years and i always thought we would go. Of course, now that we’ve moved, my extended family reunion this summer was an Alaskan cruise. They were on the same route you took, a week after you. It’s still on my bucket list, though. We did take an overnight ferry to Sweden a couple of months ago, and that was like a mini cruise ship–just a lot less fancy.
A Gentleman in Moscow is on my TBR pile, but i haven’t gotten to it yet. I did just finish The Secret Wife (partially set during the Russian revolution) and Between Shades of Gray, which tells the story of what happened to the Baltic countries around WWII. I was surprised to find that not many people know the story of what happened in those countries. But I highly recommend the latter book if you’re interested in the story, though I will warn you it’s a bit heartbreaking..
Wow, Amanda! Way to go on homeschooling in Europe no less! I’ve heard great things about the Good and Beautiful curriculum. And talk about a pretty amazing family reunion on a cruise! Both of your book recommendations sound so fascinating! Thanks for sharing them!
Alaska:
We went to the “mainland” of Alaska, flying in and out of Anchorage, in July about 15 years ago. Alaska was magnificent and definitely should be seen at least once in a lifetime. However, we encountered the same lousy weather that you did in the Inside Passage. Many days of rain, and most days were overcast but in the 50’s. We took a ship across Prince William Sound and it rained and snowed(!!) all the way across. We did get lucky, however, and actually caught a brief glimpse of Denali, though we were in the area for 3 days and saw it for about 10 minutes. Overall it was a truly memorable trip.
Sounds very memorable! I guess with all the majesty and grandeur of Alaska comes that uncertainty with the weather. Have to take your chances! All said and done, it was worth it, but I bet it would be amazing to actually get a glimpse of the gorgeous scenery!
My husband and I did a 5 day cruise from LA that stopped at Catalina island and ensenada Mexico and it was fun for being our first cruise but I don’t think we’d do that same one again, but I would do a longer one in the Caribbean or something. My parents did almost the same cruise you did the week before and they loved it. Cruise was kind of a middle ground since my husband is apprehensive about traveling and so many things were taken care of. I’d rather go straight to Hawaii or Europe
Just read that first runon sentence again. Oops!
I like runon sentences! 🙂
We did our first cruise back in August 2015. Our whole family was in Portugal for an international dance festival (oldest son was dancing and I was playing in the orchestra while my husband and youngest son just came to watch). Conveniently it ended with enough time for us to fly to Barcelona for a few days and then hop on a Disney Mediterranean cruise! It was awesome! Airfare from Canada is pretty darn expensive so we were lucky we were able to do the cruise while we we were already overseas. We did a lot of excursions but in retrospect it would have been nice to have had more down time on the boat while it was in dock but we hated to miss seeing anything ! We stopped in Naples/Pompeii, Rome, Florence, and Monaco (my favourite)!
As for back to school, my oldest is in his second year of university so he is pretty self sufficient and my youngest just started grade 9. They have a full service cafeteria at the high school because a lot of exchange students live in residence so we decided to buy a meal plan for him for lunch which he is really enjoying (plus it’s one less thing to worry about in the mornings!).
Love your blog Mel! It’s fairly rare when I make a recipe that doesn’t come from your site and I love reading about you and your beautiful family. You are truly an inspiration!
Oh my goodness, what an amazing trip to Portugal and then to Barcelona for a Disney cruise! Sounds like a once in a life time experience. I’m guessing the school lunch your son gets is better than the ones here…so nice to have that option!! Thank you so much for your sweet words!
I love your Friday thoughts! Thanks for sharing and keeping things real. Quick thought on audiobooks—have you looked into Libby/Overdrive??
Likely your local library subscribes to it and you can access (checkout) ebooks and audiobooks for free by using your library card. (Libby is Overdrive’s new much more user-friendly app). Each library is different and subscribes to different books, but it’s been a life changer for me. If your library doesn’t subscribe (my local one doesn’t), consider using a friend’s or family member’s card. Happy listening! Life is Good 🙂
Ok, so I officially have been out of the loop on Libby. Lots of you guys suggesting it so I’m looking into it ASAP! I’ve used overdrive – but not in a while so I didn’t realize it had upgraded. Thank you!
I have cruised twice! We did one for our honeymoon and another 2 years after that. Both to the western Caribbean through Carnival. And we LOVED them. Hope to do another for a big anniversary some day! My parents just did their first cruise this summer, also Alaska and maybe also Princess? I don’t remember. I would really like to do that one some day too!
Thanks, Diana!
We’ve always wanted to go on an Alaskan Cruise! We’ve cruised 4 times but always in the Caribbean. We like the “all inclusiveness” of the experience as well as the excursions and the activities on board ship. I agree, the food is often “meh” but our last cruise had some restaurant upgrade options (at additional cost) where the food was fabulous! Now that our son and daughter in law live in Seattle (we’re in Florida) I am seeing a great combination of a visit to them and an Alaskan Cruise!
So many people here who enjoy cruises love it for those same reasons (a one stop shop vacation – only unpack once, meals included, etc). I have to agree with that! It definitely takes much of that stress totally out of the picture! I hope you enjoy Alaska if you end up cruising there!
Great post, Mel! Regarding your cruise question, we have cruised many times: Alaska, Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Mexico, both with a kid and by ourselves. You’re right: no matter the cruise line, the buffets are good but not life-changing. It’s great when you just want to unpack once and visit several places. We always felt safe with the kid doing his own thing and we could do something or just kick back. No phones, no internet (our choice), a really nice getaway. Definitely would do it again, perhaps the South Pacific or Europe, even though we’re both retired now.
Do enjoy the quiet time you now have. Children may become more independent but they always are your children and they most always will be with you in one way shape or form. New chapters!
Thanks for all your cruise thoughts, Jane! I absolutely loved the no internet aspect. It was amazing to totally disconnect. Love your thoughts on new chapters, too. So true. Thank you!
Roy retired, thus our first year in forty years that there has not been a first day of school. Roy was in education, I was for awhile, and two children went through school, it was a little odd. No school shopping for school supplies or clothes. Yes, the superintendent of your school does this too. Enjoy your school time projects. Karen
Wow, what a change of pace for you two! Good luck! Enjoy your time together!
Mel, we surprised our kids with a Disney Cruise to the Bahamas and it was the best vacation ever! We still talk about it almost every day, two years later! The food, the entertainment, the staff were all top notch. There was something for everyone, all the time. Worth every penny!
That’s so good to know, Carrie! We’ve been tossing that around but haven’t gotten to the point of justifying the cost but you aren’t the first to mention in this thread that Disney cruises are amazing!
I am expecting my first child so I don’t have kids going back to school, but my husband is a teacher so I know the feeling of your routine shifting with the start of school! I love having him home a lot in the summer, but there is also something nice about the predictability of our schedule when he’s back at work. So I’m enjoying this time so far! And since it’s just me at home growing our little baby I’ve been taking lots of time to relax and catch up on the shows I like on Netflix that I don’t force him to watch with me over the summer 😉 I also use a Pack It freezable bag for his lunch! It’s a different model than your link though. It doesn’t quite stay frozen through the day as long as we would like, but I found that slipping in an extra ice pack helps it last better. Sometimes the food is still slightly warm when I put it in the bag because I make it that morning, so that’s probably the main reason. If I sent him all cold food that would probably make a difference.
We went on a Caribbean cruise a few years ago with my father in law. I absolutely loved it!! I was not impressed by the food in the buffet room, but my father in law treated us to a few dinners in the restaurants on board the ship which I did think were very good! However, you have to pay extra for those, so it’s not really the experience I expected with amazing food at your fingertips all day long. We were on a Carnival ship.
Thanks for all your thoughts, Sarah! Good luck with that first baby. I think you are smart to take advantage of the time you have to do things you may not be able to do once the baby comes!
My parents went on an Alaskan cruise on Princess this summer (they did Vancouver to Anchorage). They had the same thought about the food–not awful but not excellent either. Though they did say the lobster on lobster night was completely inedible.
I’ve been on a number of cruises, including the Hawaiian islands and the Mexican Riviera. My favorite all-time cruise though was one we took of the Rhine river in Europe. My only regret is that it didn’t last longer!
Oh my goodness, that was the exact same experience we had! I was so excited for lobster and it was honestly so chewy and tough that we couldn’t eat it. Interesting. It sounds like from this comment thread that European cruises are where it’s at!
We did an Alaskan cruise this summer too (inside passage on Royal Caribbean)! I think we were probably there a week or 2 after you since we heard alllll about the nasty weather of the previous week from the crew. It was our first time to Alaska, though our 3rd cruise, and we totally lucked out with the weather. Every day was sparkling – clear blue skies with highs in the 60s/70s. We weren’t overly impressed with the food on the ship either, especially the buffet, but the “specialty” steakhouse restaurant we ended up having dinner at for 2 nights was seriously outstanding. Alaska though was just as you describe – majestic. Just so so beautiful.
We’re not wunderlusts either which is why cruising is kind of just our style. Always plenty to do and see on and off the ships and since the some of the ships are now within driving distance from us in CT out of NY and Boston, we can avoid flying (both the hassle and expense). We booked our 4th cruise for this coming January to the Bahamas but this one will be very different – the first time traveling with our toddler! Should be interesting! 🙂
That’s funny (kind of!) about you guys hearing about our nasty weather. Haha. It really was terrible! The captain of our ship told us several times we may not be able to get into port (thankfully we were able to each time). I’m so glad your weather was amazing!! Good luck on that cruise with your toddler! There were several families with young kids on our cruise and they all said it was pretty fun!
I just do happen to be waking up from a fabulous nap . This is my first year with the kids all in school too and I felt panicked and lost the first week, and now I feel so much freedom to get work done without the guilt of neglecting my kids. Oh and the naps are fab. I no longer feel wasted at 6 pm.
I love this!
I’ve been on a few cruises. All to the Caribbean. I was underwhelmed with the food too. It was fine but not the best food I’ve ever had. I think people who rave about the food don’t cook much at home and it’s novel for them. But I did absolutely love exploring the Caribbean. It’s undeniably gorgeous and I want to a greece/Italy cruise next. Someday!
I can see that being the case about the food! I’ve heard from some friends that have also loved the Caribbean. Italy/Greece would be amazing!
As a mom who is thick in the littles stage (a three year old, a one year old, and expecting), I am a little aghast when I hear empty-nesters say they don’t know what to do with their time. As our priest recently pointed out in a sermon, when your kids are getting into school full time/gone and their parents have more time on their hands, they then have the opportunity to throw themselves full tilt into the assisting community. Help the elderly! Babysitting for us moms who constantly change diapers and wipe up spit-up (I personally vote for this one) and are usually keeping it together by a thread. Volunteer at the food bank. Run the church Sunday school. Form relationships with the people who just moved to town and are overwhelmed and lonely. How can you women be bored?! There are so many many things I am just itching to do but can’t because I have naptimes, nursing, early bed time, etc. that must be my priority.
PLEASE! Help the rest of us out if you’re free because WE NEED IT!
Love the blog Mel. <3 A hardened traveler myself, cruises never interested me.
I wonder if it’s more about empty nesters trying to get used to the extra time they find themselves with vs being bored? I don’t know. I know it took my mom some time to settle into the phase of being an empty nester and figure out how and where to put her time, but those are all great ideas!
Back to school this year has been pretty good. Two off across the work in college (we’re in England and they’re in Utah), one in high school, and two in middle school. Plus working as a substitute in the schools as well so we’re all at school a lot.
Our girls that are still at home all pack their own lunches. It’s usually leftovers accompanied by fruits, veggies, and yogurt or cheese. Sometimes I’ll be a cool mom and buy prepackaged treats by not very often!
I’m always looking for book recommendations, so I’ll have to check that one out. Now that I know the beginning might move slowly I’ll be less likely to give up on it.
We’ve never done a cruise but if we did it would probably be an Alaskan one. Also, I’m thinking I need to check out those boots or something like them for our soon to be missionary daughter. She needs something waterproof and comfortable.
As always, thanks for keeping it real and for helping me work toward kitchen rock star status!
Thanks for all of your thoughts, Sarah!
I have never been on a cruise, but I got to take a trip in August with all my sisters (7 of us including me) and my mom and it was such a blast! I have one sister that’s living in Skagway right now, working as a nurse in their clinic. I’ve always wanted to go on a cruise, but I’m kind of rethinking that now. We just took a ferry from Juneau to Skagway then back to Juneau a couple days later and my head is still spinning and kind of motion sick from it. I went to the doctor and he says I have Mal De Debarquement syndrome, but that it should go away eventually. It’s been almost four weeks so I hope it’s going to end! It is much less intense than the first two weeks, but still there. It’s made me question if I really ever want to try a cruise if a few hours on a ferry does this to my brain! Looks like you had lots of fun! All my kids are in all day school and it’s still a little weird.
What a fun thing to take a trip with your sisters and mom! I love that so much! I’ve never ever heard of that condition but it makes me wonder if I had something like that. I felt SO sick after we got home. Brian didn’t feel dizzy and nauseous at all, but I felt so sick for a couple weeks. Interesting! Now I don’t feel like I was just crazy.
I love hearing your thoughts! And of course I love your recipes too. The first year back-to-school with all my kids gone all day was tough. I remember how hard it was to lunch alone that first year. The trick is not to over-commit yourself though. The time goes so fast! This year I am teaching early morning seminary for the first time, plus two sections of a university seminar, and the first few weeks were completely overwhelming. Obviously it’s gotten better since I found time to read blogs this morning, but it’s still busy.
I love A Gentleman in Moscow, but you’re right, it takes a while to get into. I learned all sorts of interesting things when I prepped our book group discussion. Like did you notice how the time between chapters doubles each time (1 day, 2 days, 5 days, 10, 3 week, etc. to 16 years, and then back)? I’ve never been on a cruise, but it sounds fun!
Thanks, Laura! Such good advice about not overcommitting. I think that’s been my problem. I see this huge block of time during the day and maybe I’m overconfident all I can get done (at home and with/for other people). Early morning seminary is no joke! Goodness gracious. My mom did that for 10 years in Montana and it was so time consuming (although she says it’s been her favorite calling ever). And oh my goodness, my mind is kind of blown about the time aspect of A Gentleman in Moscow. I had no idea! I’m not quite finished, but I haven’t caught that level of detail in part because I’m listening to it instead of reading it. I’ve enjoyed it enough (after the slow start) that I think I’ll try reading it next time to get a different perspective than listening to it.
Hey there! I am so jealous all your kids are in school! My first born just started school last week and I have two more at home. I get a little glimpse of what life will be like when all of them are in school during nap time!! It’s amazing the things I have been able to get done when I don’t have someone following me around. But to be honest, there are days when I just sit for half an hour and just enjoy the silence. No tv, no phone, just me. And maybe some cookies (that I don’t have to share!)
Isn’t it sometimes just the sitting in peace and quiet that you need to fill your cup? I totally get that!
I want those boots! And what are your favorite jeans that you found through a comment? I must know? I can not find any good jeans lately! Yay for being 40!
Paige denim! They are pricey but I found them on clearance at Nordstrom Rack and they fit me better than any jeans ever have!
Here are a couple of book recommendations- Lucky Boy by Shanghai Sekaran – a beautifully written story.
Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie- amazing read – I found it hard to put down.
Also, my oldest just left for College, across the country – your friend was right- even though we want them to fly off – it’s the most gutting experience I’ve ever had! Enjoy them while they are little – it’s goes so fast once they hit middle school!! I can’t wait to go,on an Alaskan cruise! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for the book recommendations, Lori! Good luck with your oldest off to college. It’s hard to imagine that, but I know it’s just around the corner for us and time goes so stinking fast.
I LOVE the viking hat. If your sister ever wants to sell one to me, I’ll buy it! My kid’s high school mascot is a Viking as well. That is super awesome.
We also did a cruise with our family for the first time this summer. We have never done a beach vacation, so we did a 4 night cruise from Orlando to the Bahamas, then spent 3 days at Universal Studios (Harry Potter fans in the house). My five boys loved every minute of it. Eating at any hour of the day, eating a fancy dinner in the dining room, etc, was a super fun experience for them. Our favorite part was spending two entire days on beautiful beaches. My boys are all competitive swimmers, so they were out snorkeling literally the entire day and loved every second of it. We also splurged and did the dolphin swim experience. It was worth every penny in my humble opinion. So fun. I might have even gotten a little teary. I’ve wanted to do that since I was a kid.
I don’t know if I have caught the cruising bug either, however. Even though it was fun. There are just so many different things I want to experience and do that I can’t see myself just doing different cruises.
I’ll tell my sister! I keep telling her she needs to open an etsy shop but she says it takes so long to make the hats, she’d have to charge way too much to make them worth her time (and probably no one would buy them). 🙂 She’s so talented! Your cruise/Universal Studios vacation sounds amazing! And that’s awesome your boys loved it so much! I love how much you enjoyed the splurge of the dolphins. Totally, totally worth it.
Hi there Mel. I enjoyed reading your blog this morning. I’m a mom of two beautiful girls, the youngest of which has just left home for university. My husband and I are “empty nesters” for the first time in twenty one years. I’ve been a stay at home Mom for thirteen years, putting my career on hold to raise my family with absolutely no regrets. I’m trying to get back into my career field with no success as of yet. Been out of it too long maybe. Or maybe just a sign that this new found time is time that I should appreciate having some “me” time and some “us” time with my husband. I’ll figure it out as soon as I recover from the flu that has had me flat on my back for the first week that they’ve both been gone. (School starts several eeeks later here in Canada). I’m certainly going to take note of the wonderful book selections I’ve been reading about in the responses. As a family, we took an Alaskan cruise about four years ago. A Princess cruise, like you did. We enjoy enjoyed it. The girls had fun too. The food was okay. Nothing too memorable. We did enjoy the sights and the excursions that we took. I’ve asked my family if they would like to do it again and both responded with a solid no. We live in Vancouver, the beautiful city in which your cruise ended. I would like to know if you had time to visit Vancouver and what you thought of it. I would
like to say, as a family, we appreciate all of you’re recipes. My two girls are cooking for themselves and I have sent them off with a binder of Mel’s recipes that’s are simple, fast and yummy. Thank you
Oh wow, what a change of phase and life for you, Arlene! I’ve heard the empty nester phase can really throw parents for a loop. Good luck recovering from the flu and also good luck figuring out how/if to pursue your past career. We did not, unfortunately, have time to visit Vancouver because our flight got changed to much earlier, but it was so gorgeous there that I commented to Brian: I want to come back here!
Can I leave a comment that doesn’t actually answer any of your questions, but it’s a recent discovery in my life and I AM SO IN LOVE WITH IT I WANT TO SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS??? Like, I have a testimony of this and it’s burning in my bosom.
The Organised Mum Method <—-look up her blog and her instagram. It will help control the chaos of home. I'm actually enjoying keeping my house clean because the longer I stick with the method, the better shape my house is in.
Hahahahahaha. The burning bosom comment cracked me up. Ok, I’m looking into that ASAP with your strong encouragement!
I actually looked this up after reading your comment and I started the method this week. So far my house is already way cleaner and I am enjoying the racing the clock for 30 min aspect 🙂 Seriously can’t get over how fast she cleans though. Anyway, thanks for the shout out! I think it’s going to help my house handle the next newborn better at the beginning of January.
Hi Mel. I just love the Fiday Toughts post. I have cruised on and off over the years and I find the best part of crusing is staying on the ship when in port!! I know it sounds crazy, but it is so relaxing and quiet. I think any vacation is about balance and rejuvating. My children are college age now and I have so much free time I feel lost. It is a time of self discovery when our children are in school/grown and women need to do it!! Your blog and the comments people post are alway amazing. Women around the country enjoy your free time and do something wonderful for yourself!!
You are so right about vacations being about balance and rejuvenation! And I just love you for inviting women to enjoy free time to do something wonderful. I think very often we as women and moms feel guilty when we have time at our disposal (I’m not sure any time is every really “free”) and I’m trying to get over that feeling and enjoy all the moments – the busy ones and the ones where I have more time to myself. Thank you!
Will you please redo your search window? It never works the first time. Try it on a laptop. It’s very touchy.
Next, will you please offer a “jump to recipe” feature for when readers are in a big hurry or pulling up an old post and don’t need to re-read.
I’ll take a look at the search functionality! Sorry you are having issues with that. I don’t plan to add a jump to recipe button right now, but I’ll file the suggestion away. Thank you!
I’ve cruised with Princess three times and will be leaving in three weeks for the 15 day Hawaii Cruise leaving from Vancouver which is where I live. I discovered cruising two years ago and loved it. I love sea days! I’ve always enjoyed the food on board but we no longer go to the buffet. We far prefer the dining rooms for all our meals. I’m sorry you didn’t get to see much of Vancouver when you were here. This is truly a very beautiful city with lots to do!
So many people told me on our Alaska cruise that their Hawaii cruise was their favorite ever! I hope it’s amazing! And I was so impressed with the brief look we had at Vancouver. It was gorgeous and I told Brian I want to go back!
I have never been on a cruise, but hope that some day my husband and I can sneak away for an anniversary. But honestly, I think I would rather just fly somewhere…
Love that you talk about the books you are reading! I want to read A Gentlemen in moscow now! I like to listen to things as I clean, lately it’s just been the new Saints book.
Out dishwasher leaked (unknowingly) underneath for months and completely damaged the floor all around it. As a result we’ve had to tear up the kitchen. Since we are going through insurance, it has been 2 months with just half a kitchen and the rest gets tore out next week, in which we will have no kitchchen for about 3 1/2 weeks. It has made the whole lunch packing routine a little more difficult this year! I can’t wait until it’s finished and my kiddos can more easily pack their own lunches again. With less prepackaged food items
3 out of 4 of my children are now in school all day for first time, and it is so different just having me and the 2 1/2 year old home all day. Not the same as just me, but it’s giving me a closer look to what it will be like alone. I can’t belive how fast the school day goes by!
NOOOOO! I’m so sorry your dishwasher leaked. Oh my goodness, so sorry. We had an ice dam build up a couple years ago that flooded our kitchen while we were gone for the holidays and we had to work through insurance to get it fixed and our kitchen was torn up for months. It was honestly really hard, so I’m sorry you are having to deal with that. Good luck! Hopefully before you know it, it will be a distant memory!
Sorry the weather on your Alaska cruise didn’t cooperate, because when the sun shines, there is not (in my opinion) a more beautiful place in the US. We are veteran cruisers, and have done Alaska twice and would do it again! Can’t help with the school lunch subject, as my kids all have paws!
Love your blog and your recipes!
I think you are right about Alaska being in rare form with the sun shining! The last day at sea we had a bit of sunshine and we couldn’t decide if that was a good thing (finally sun!) or a bad thing (making us realize what it could have been like the whole week!).
What were those fantastic jeans you mentioned?? Always looking for a good pair of jeans! Love your recipes, except that bing cherry bar one which was a hot(wet) mess. Yours looked so nice..I don’t know what we all did wrong
I found a clearance pair of Paige denim at Nordstrom rack and they fit like a glove – love them! And also a pair of Kut from the Kloth. Affordable and so comfy! (size down, though, they run big)
Hi Mel, this year I have a 5th grader and a 2nd grader. 5th grader is doing it and is in the zone, my 2nd grader struggled the first week and little the second (this week). He struggled with the change big time: new teacher, new schedule (recess before lunch really took him out), new style of work flow in class. It took him out the first day and he threw up at lunch at hubby had to pick him up early. Day 2 was better and was cut short because of heat so I think that worked out in his favor. This week, he struggled a bit again with not getting some classwork done but did talk to the teacher and she was fine and adjusted for him. I just wonder if he’s overthinking. My 5th grader struggled in 3rd grade for a few months but came out a rock star so I just wonder if its hitting him earlier.
Agh! It’s so hard when kids struggle with new school schedules. Seriously, it’s so stressful. I hope that sweet 2nd grader adjusts and finds a groove. My 12-year old is a high anxiety kid and seems like every other year is a “struggling” year for him. I haven’t really found a rhyme or reason to it, but I just kind of prepare myself and dig deep for the patience and resolve to help him through it. Good luck!
Hi Mel. After following your blog for years, I feel I’ve known you for years. Let me say thanks for all the recipes you’ve shared as well as the stories from your family and your life. It reminds me that all of our lives/cares are essentially the same. Please keep up the good work. BTW, give the North another chance, next time take your whole family on a road trip on the Alaska Highway. Its always damp on the coast, I live in Whitehorse, Yukon and the climate here is semi-arid, we have the smallest dessert in the world and the scenery is to die for.
Thanks so much for your comment, Gordon! That was so kind. And I think we’ll definitely give Alaska another chance! Brian and I both commented we’d love to ditch the cruise next time and plan our own Alaskan adventure (particularly Juneau captured our attention but we’d also love to get to Denali). Thanks for the recommendations!
You’re so cute! I feel like we’d be pretty good friends in real life. My kiddos have headed all headed off to school
this year also. People have been asking me, “What do you do with all your free time?” I haven’t really had any yet to know! I’ve been busy doing regular mom jobs but I have snuck in an afternoon kyaking trip with friends and yesterday we went to a parade of homes.
The thought of a cruise terrifies me (I took my first airplane ride almost 2 years ago, I’m not sure I’m ready to leave land on a boat!) My husband loves hunting and moose are my favorite animal so if we did go on a cruise, I bet it would be to Alaska.
All right, I’ve wasted enough time. I’d better get back to my list of chores before the kids get home from school! Maybe I’ll whip up some cookies for them… Have a great weekend!
Haha, I must get asked that same question 12 times a week. I’m like “what free time??” but then I realize it’s my own issue that I feel like I’m always out of time (law of scarcity vs law of abundance!). Good luck with those chores – I hope you take more time for kayaking. What fun!
I think you need to finish one of those quilt tops and send it to me for longer quilting! Now I’m off to find the perfect cheesecake recipe on your site. My freshman daughter is requesting cheesecake for her birthday next week!
Also I am so impressed that your kids make their own lunch! My 11 year old son is pretty good about doing his. 14 year old daughter is never ready in time, and my youngest is 8 and is used to us doing everything for him.
Well I think I need to do that, too! The problem is, I actually just need to learn how to quilt first. I finished the Book Nerd quilt (have you seen that one??) but even though everyone said it is super easy, the paper piecing about killed me off. Good luck with the cheesecake!!
The viking hat!!!! I looove it! I hope you wear it until they all graduate. I teach at a high school whose mascot is a nondescript “titan,” a real missed opportunity if you ask me. And such cute boots!
I have my first in school this year, all day kindergarten and I have found a nerdy kind of joy that I think you can appreciate in packing his lunch. We got a bento-ish container, those silicone cups and a thermos since he likes water and not milk with his lunch (who knows why) and I have a great time loading it up every night.
I did read the whole post and I think I will make cookies this afternoon, thanks for suggesting it. Love ya, Mel!
Haha “missed opportunity” – that made me laugh. And I love you SO much for the nerdy joy surrounding packing school lunches. Oh my gosh, that was the best.
If you want a great audiobook, I recommend “The Boys in the Boat.” It’s a great read, and the reader is phenomenal. He makes the book. Also, “How to be here” by Rob Bell is another major favorite. Short and inspiring, he is such a fun guy to listen to. Oooh one more “Everybody, Always” by Bob Goff.
I listen to audiobooks through Overdrive or Libby (online library apps) and it saves me a ton of money by not doing the Audible subscription! But you probably already know about those… I love your posts! Thanks for sharing. ❤️
Thanks for that recommendation, Alli! My freshman had to read that book this summer before his English class started and I keep thinking I’ll read it, but I think the audiobook needs to be my ticket. Especially if I want to really tackle that back-to-school to do list. 🙂 You are the 2nd to recommend Libby. I’ve been living under a rock! So excited about that!
Hi Mel, an Alaskan cruise is on my bucket list! I’m jealous! We did our first cruise last Thanksgiving, we did a Disney cruise of the Western Caribbean (originally scheduled for Eastern but with the hurricanes our itinerary was changed). My boys (7 and 5 at the time) love love loved it! They keep talking about it at least once a week. I highly recommend cruising Disney. It’s probably more expensive but way worth it. We have another one booked for the Eastern Caribbean during Valentines week. (I know we’re taking the kids out but it’s the only time they so the Star Wars cruise).
So many people say Disney cruises are amazing! I’ve heard that from a lot of family and friends so it’s awesome to know that you guys had a great time. Thanks for letting me know! Have fun on that Eastern Caribbean cruise – wow!
Hi Mel,
I love these Friday posts! In an effort to keep my this brief, I’m making a numbered list in response.
1) we took my youngest to college this August and I was a bawling hot mess over it. My role as a mom has changed and I didn’t know how to process it. Honestly, I had to grieve for awhile (ok, all summer). But, I’ve turned a corner and am embracing all my available time.
2) yes, read and loved A Gentleman in Moscow. I agree, hard to get into at first (even with the book), but it stays with you long after it’s over.
3) we went on our first cruise over spring break. From Charleston SC to The Bahamas. We are not fans of the cruise. It was cold, very windy (so windy they closed the top two decks!), and the ship activities weren’t good. Some food was good, but most just meh. Met some interesting people and we went with extended family so made some memories. But, now that it’s been done, we won’t be doing another one.
Well I love you for the numbered list. That’s my love language right there. And oh, sweet momma, I can’t imagine taking the youngest off to school. What a transition! Every tear is deserved and well earned. Such a bummer about the cruise – but I kind of get it. So many vacation and travel options out there, I think you have to really love cruising to keep doing it (especially for the cost!).
Hey Mel, My youngest is in Kindergarten, two full days a week that I am home alone for the first time in 14 1/2 years. It’s kinda weird, but I sure get lots done!! But I made a major list and so far things just aren’t getting checked off- can’t always tell what I’m so busy with. Oh well, I guess it’ll happen eventually, right??
Went on a cruise years ago in the Bahamas. We won it, and it was okay, but we would never plan to go on a cruise again. I would much prefer a land-based holiday. We got a little bored on the one day we were out at sea all day. Excursions were great though!!
On a side note, your three middle children look like they are all the same height, or is that just the way the picture makes them look? I have two kids, Jason and Lynnette, who have been the same size, and it wreaks havoc with the whole hand-me-down system. Since they are boy and girl they don’t share a lot, but hockey gear, winter boots, and ski equipment have all been a problem!!
Enjoy your back-to-school alone time, and good luck with all those projects!!
Haha, story of my life! 14 years with kids home and now I’m wondering how the time goes by so fast. I swear I got more done when they were all clinging to my legs. Haha. Ok, maybe not. Yes, everyone thinks my middle three boys are triplets. They are all about 18 months apart. My 12 year old is very small for his age, my 11 year old is just average and the 9-year old is pretty tall for his age so it evens out that they are all the same height. They basically wear the same size clothes which means hand me downs are nonexistent and it’s a bummer, but oh well. I have a friend who has boys a bit younger than mine and she basically gets 3X the amount of clothes of the same size when the boys grow out of them (although my boys are pretty hard on clothes so decent hand me downs are few and far between).
I have been listening to books about 6 months ago and I’m still in the fence about it! Haha. I homeschool, the kids are always around, I don’t have very many hours in a day to listen, so it’s always a half hour here, a half hour there, so I sometimes worry that I miss out a bit. I love all the books I’ve listened to, but when I’m finished I feel a little sad that I don’t have the hard copy. Right now I’m listening to ‘My Dear Hamilton’ and loving it! Also, even if I had the book in my hands, I probably wouldn’t be able to read more than a little here and there anyway, so…. My argument is not valid. Ha! An Alaskan cruise sounds so dreamy to me!!! I NEED THAT CROCHET PATTERN! All the heart eyes for it. I’m so glad you gave me permission to eat that s’mores cookie I’ve been eyeing all morning. YUM.
I totally get that about audiobooks, Christina! Sometimes I want to go back and re”read” a page or remind myself who a character is, and that is really hard with an audiobook. And YOU ARE AMAZING FOR HOMESCHOOLING. That is all. 🙂
We went on a Disney Cruise as a family in March and my family definitely caught the cruising bug. My 5 year old still talks about it and wants to go on another cruise asap. It was our first cruise so I can’t compare it to anything but the food and service were great.
Ive tried Gentleman in Moscow but it got pushed aside as other books were ready at the l library. !
I’ve actually heard Disney cruises are amazing! My sister and her family are planning one, I think, so I’ll have to quiz her about their experience. Glad you guys loved it!
LOVE the Viking hat WITH braids. Awesome. Mel, this is Jenna, your long lost friend living in Italy, don’t give up on the Portuguese! You’ll never regret it. No cruise experience and now if i go i will keep my expectations low. Your kids are super grown up. thanks for the pictures.
Jenna! Love your guts, friend. Maybe my next trip just needs to come visit you! Seriously, that would be a dream.
ok, great post! before i forget, i NEED THE PATTERN FOR THE VIKING BEANIE! i will search online. second, a gentleman in moscow is one of my favorite books EVER! so glad for your “free” times. hope you accomplish great dreams! 🙂
Hey Karen, I’ll tell my sister to comment here with the link (if there is one). She can crochet just about anything which is nice because I am inept at crocheting.
Hi Mel, I took my first ever cruise to the Western Caribbean via Holland America earlier this year. I loved a lot about it. It was so nice to be taken care of all week, no dishes/laundry/cheese grating lol. I agree that the food was just “fine” – I’ve heard Celebrity has great food? My favorite part of the cruise was visiting the private island owned by Holland America in the Bahamas. I could have stayed there every day and been happy. I did also love the opportunity to relax with my husband and to watch new-ish movies in our room. I’d take another cruise someday. Oh and get the Libby app and connect your library card with it. You can do audio books/eBooks and it’s so nice that it’s free! (thank you, Janssen for the recommendation.) I’m listening to the Sound of Gravel about a girl who grew up in a polygamist family – sad, compelling, etc. and read by the author. So good.
Wow, that cruise sounds amazing! Someone else on our cruise we were chatting with said Celebrity has the best food (this person happens to go on several cruises a year – !!) but who knows. I think my expectations were just elevated. The food was by no means bad…just not as good as I thought it would be. Also thanks for the tip on the Libby app! Never heard of that!
We’ve never done a cruise bc we love getting “lost” in new places but we have thought about it to Mexico or something bc we don’t care to much about getting lost there. Cute beanie. Seriously embarrassing our kids is one of the perks of this “job”. It’s weird when the kids are off and it’s just you but yes, you do adjust and nap time is an option. I sometimes have a 20 Min nap and I’m much happier come 5 pm.
Amen to that!
Interesting take on the cruise. My husband and I have never been on one and have been wanting to do a shorter one to see if we like it. Since we are in the Seattle area- the Alaskan cruise appeals to us. For one, neither of us like super hot destinations (meaning we aren’t the tropical resort destination kind of people- yet). Rain and Fog doesn’t bother us. lol We like San Diego in February the best. Lol But we also want to do San Francisco and found a cruise that goes down the west coast. But I think it included Astoria (great but already done that), and I wanna say Victoria or Vancouver(which we do on occasion by car and/or ferry). So who knows?
As for your take on the food. I’ve found on vacations in general- I’ve had to just tell myself- the treat is not having to cook or clean up. Otherwise I tend to focus on why did I just pay for that lackluster meal? Lol Unless we purposely seek something out for the experience,I think becoming a better cook has almost ruined the eating out gig. lol
The Viking hat kills me. .Lol I saw it before I read it- and I was like- opera anyone? lol My sister had one of the lumberjack ones, (think bearded). Let’s just say it still makes my stomach hurt from laughing so hard.
lastly… OMG! Your kiddos are growing so fast!
Ok, that is a GREAT take on vacation food. You are right – I don’t have to clean it up OR make it! I’m going to keep that in mind next time. 🙂 And now you have ME laughing out loud at the image of a lumberjack beanie. Hahahaha.
Our first cruise 9 years ago was go Alaska! We had awesome weather, though, and we loved everything about it. We’d go again. 🙂 Next year we’re planning a cruise through the Norwegian Fjords. Also, the school day flies by! My youngest is in 7th grade and I still feel like my alone time is short. Haha
Oh my goodness, Sandee – a cruise through the Norwegian Fjords has to include some of the most amazing scenery on earth! I hope it’s incredible!
Before we had kids my husband and I liked to take cruises. For our honeymoon we did a 12 day cruise through Europe. We found that it was a great way to go to places we might not normally get to without having to worry about finding lodging in each city. I’m hoping to take our kids (currently 6 & 4) on a cruise , especially since the 6 year old has suddenly decided that she really wants to go to Greece. Who am I to argue with that?? Once we get past the madness of Disney World this November, traveling with them more is next on my list.
A cruise through Europe sounds amazing! And that is adorable about your 6-year old. Greece! That’s a lofty travel goal for a young kid!
I have actually been on five cruises I’ve been to Mexico several times and the Caribbean mostly on princess cruise line I am going to Alaska this next June and I’m nervous because I don’t want it to be rainy and gross and cold but I will say this the Caribbean cruises were amazing Mexico was fun because it was close to home but I love the Caribbean… it’s so beautiful and very festive around the pools definitely a much more fun festive cruise !!! I’d give it a go!!
Thanks for the feedback on your cruising experiences, Kristina! I bet you’ll LOVE Alaska. I’ve heard going in June is less rainy and foggy but a little more chilly overall.
So glad you and Brian got away together! Two comments: on cruises – we took our family (four kids, 8,8,6&6) on a European vacation this summer (family lives overseas) which included a 12 day Norwegian cruise. Wow. It was so much fun, and so convenient for us to not be packing/unpacking every single day. That was the best part, plus having food already taken care of on board. I have two children with allergies, so having a dietary director help us with food choices saved us a lot of headaches and nerves (as opposed to navigating every single meal in another language if we’d traveled over land). I think the kids loved having their room and their stuff stay put. All in all, worked great (and we loved having the kids’ club option). Second, on school: all four of mine are in K and 2nd now, and it’s wonderful!! However, I have a huge ‘project/to-do’ list that I have barely gotten to as well, since we’ve had family in town or have gone to visit family for three long weekends in a row. When I only have Tu/W/Th left to get everything accomplished, it’s not a lot. So I’m looking forward to things slowing down and giving myself the permission to sit down and read a few times a week in the peace and quiet of my house!! Woohoo, lots to celebrate in this new phase of life!
Lynn, thank you so much for your thoughts! The cruise you took with your family sounds incredible! As much as it was nice to get away with Brian, I do think if we did a cruise again, we’d try to make it a family affair. It could be really fun, I think, especially when I hear comments like yours! And you are right! So much to celebrate and be happy about with this phase. Good luck with your to-do list (I agree on getting capped on either end – Mon and Wed – with travel and company!).
Our next adventure is going to be renting an RV for a trip. We’ll see how it goes – we’re testing it out for a long weekend next month, in hopes of taking a longer trip up to Michigan (from Nashville) and some of the Great Lakes for maybe two weeks next summer. We can pack and prepare our own meals, and the kids can play games (while staying buckled) and have more space while we’re driving. While we don’t have any teens yet, and we have one less kid than you guys, it could be a fun option for your gang – it’s a 30′, with queen, double, twin bunks, and the dinette area making a bed. Now we just have to get comfortable driving a 30′ vehicle!!
I haven’t been on a cruise and I don’t really itch to like a lot of people do. I would rather just go straight to the places and skip the boat! I haven’t read the gentleman in Moscow one, but I am on a mission to read as much as I can for the rest of my life. “If you read one book a week, starting at the age of 5, and live to be 80, you will have read a grand total of 3, 900 books, a little over one-tenth of 1% of the books currently in print.” I still have two little ones home all day, so I won’t be like you for 3 or more years. I’ll just take notes from you until then because let’s be honest, I already do! I just got a new freezer, so the pack it bags we have sitting in our pantry just might be able to be used now! We are slow getting into the routine of school, I think summer just flew too fast for us. I love fall and we have so much to look forward to! Loved your post as always. Love the viking hat!
I think I feel the same, Shannon. Like I commented below to Nancy – kind of plan your own adventure type thing vs being at the mercy of the boat’s schedule? I don’t know. Or maybe I just want to stay home for the rest of forever, too. That’s a distinct possibility. 🙂 That’s a sobering statistic about books – I need to get reading more! Wow!
My first born started all day kindergarten this year (kinda wish there was an option for half day though!). I was nervous for him but he adjusted pretty well, and honestly it’s sometimes a relief to have him away from home. Just had a baby in May and also have a 2.5 year old so one extra kid out for most of the day helps my sanity quite a bit! I turned to your blog for school lunch advice and we got the thermos for hot foods, and went with the bento box lunchbox they sell at Costco for other days – so far so good. And I’ve used some of your lunch ideas and he’s liked them so far. Then I found out they offer free school lunch at his school! So now we look through the menu and decide which days he’ll get school lunch and which days he’ll bring a lunch since not all the food they serve is to his liking.
As for cruises, I’ve been on 2, both on Norwegian and both for work (poor me, ha). Actually, both times were with a group of high functioning adults with developmental disabilities, so it was definitely work, and it was very enjoyable and a fun experience (once I got over sea sickness – meclizine to the rescue!). But since it was for work and vacation for the clients, we didn’t do things that I would have chosen to do so I don’t know if I got the full experience of a cruise vacation. The first cruise was the Mexican Riviera – Acapulco, Zihuatenejo, Puerta Vallarta, and Cabo. The second cruise was Alaska – Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Prince George, BC. The buffet food was ok but when we dined at the free restaurants, they were better and it was fun to try different dishes. But as you said, not life changing or anything. I’d like to try another cruise one day, this time as a family or couple vacation and not for work, and see if the experience is much different.
Wow, Nancy! You are a busy momma! Having a baby and a toddler at home is BUSY!! Glad your kindergartener has adjusted pretty well! That would be super interesting to know if your thoughts about cruising would change if you were able to do it for pleasure and not for work (although that’s amazing you’ve been able to go on two for work!). I definitely felt like we would want to go back and visit parts of Alaska that we found the most interesting (definitely the scenic/outdoor areas) but maybe do it without a cruise and plan our own adventure type thing.
I recently finished listening to the audiobook of A Gentleman in Moscow myself and I loved it! I really enjoy audiobooks and use them all the time when I am home by myself doing house things like laundry and cleaning. It makes the chores less dull and allows me to do one of my favorite things (reading) at the same time as other less fun things. I’ve never been on a cruise, but if I ever go on one, I’d have high food expectations too. Seems like that is one of the things I hear about the most from others who have gone on cruises. 24-hour ice cream is pretty good! =) My school year is shaping up to be pretty busy right now, but I do value my at home time by myself to get all the things done that need doing without interruptions. When I have an extra project I want to do (like work on a quilt), I try to schedule it into my week during a time when I am home alone. Scheduling Wednesday morning as my sewing time last year made it easier to make sure I made progress on that project and kept all the extra things that come up at bay. There are always more things to do than I expect, and if I am not careful they will quickly eat up all the extra time that I think I will have. Scheduling my sewing time helped prevent that from happening. Hope you will share your progress on any fun projects you do.
Love the scheduling idea, Jenn! I need to be better at that for sure. I let those kinds of things get pushed around by other “stuff” that comes up. I want to be better at holding fast to a block of time I’ve outlined for a certain task. Thank you for the tip!
If you’re enjoying a A Gentleman in Moscow, you should read Amor Towles’ first novel, Rules of Civility. It’s really outstanding; I thought A Gentleman was good but it pales next to Rules of Civility. Something to look forward to!
Really?? Thank you for the recommendation! This author’s writing is like no other!
Haven’t done the cruise thing yet, but I have to say go back to Vancouver in early summer to see the views. We went in August last year and couldn’t see the mountains, due to smoke. We went back to some of the areas this year and they were so beautiful.
I thought the same thing, Cathy! We only had about an hour in Vancouver until our flight departed but it was SO beautiful! I kept telling Brian I wanted to go back some day.
Cruises: yep! We’ve done Alaska twice, once just the two of us, the last time with Mom in law and munchkin, 7. Also, the Bahamas; and Catalina Island. I enjoy them. I’ve never done Princess. We did Norwegian to Alaska the first time and ended up with amazing weather in April. Bahamas and Catalina was Carnival. Definitely a party atmosphere. And September Alaska was Holland America. I loved the America’s Test Kitchen demos on Holland, and learned things! No 24 hour food, but the food was pretty good the whole time, especially the dining room.
School: back to homeschool around here on Monday. We did light summer, and then a little vacation. I’m going to try your lunch list!
Hi Mel- most importantly- you ended your cruise in Vancouver and we didn’t get to hang out (?!?). Vancouver was probably thick with forest fire smoke also so you need to come back for a re-do! ❤️
I know! Believe it or not, I actually thought of you…until our 9 hour window til our flight departed got changed to 45 minutes. It was insane, but having never been to Vancouver, even our speedy bus ride through town to the airport had me exclaiming to Brian how beautiful it is (there wasn’t any smoke then actually!). I want to come back!
Here is some very “official” mommy math. The last 15% or so of summer break is the worst! If summer was 4 weeks long, the last bit would be the worst and if summer was 20 weeks long, the last 15% would be the worst! We had a comparatively short summer a few years ago due to moving and school calendar weirdness and the last 15% was a mess! I don’t know what it is with how we internally pace ourselves or anticipate a new season, but it’s always the last part where we all run out of steam!
Also, my girls are all in school all day and I don’t know where the time goes! I mean, yesterday a lot of it went to The Great British Baking Show but that’s not the norm! I should probably use the time to brace myself for when they and all of their emotions come home… 😉
Oh my gosh, Becky, that is so insightful and TRUE about the last percentage of summer. It happens every year and I beat myself up over wondering why I let everything go to pot, but now I’m going to blame it on statistics and just ride out the wave of disastrousness without stressing. And I laughed out loud at the GBB show comment. Haha! Definitely been guilty of that, too. 🙂
I’ve been a stay-at-home-mom slash work-part-time-from-home mom for the last eight years and I just sent my youngest off to (all-day) Kinder this fall…it surely is bittersweet! I can relate to that lost feeling and deciding to be ambitious but not quite getting much accomplished. I love, love, ❤️ your blog and your recipes, Mel!! Happy fall
Oh boy, Cami – sounds like you and I are almost in the same phase of life boat! Your comment made me feel not quite so alone. Thank you!
Aw, thank you!! You are a rock star for replying to so many of us and I feel honored to hear from you personally ;). Enjoy your weekend!
Good morning! We went on our first cruise this summer as well – Princess Cruises to the Western Caribbean. The ports were absolutely incredibly – Grand Cayman, Honduras, Belize and Cozumel – our children experiences and saw some amazing parts of the world we otherwise may never get to – ziplining in Honduras, cave tubing in Belize, Mayan ruins, snorkeling in the caymans, swimming with stingrays – just wow. The ship was beautiful and felt a bit overwhelming at first. Our kids loved the freedom of getting food, swimming, exploring whenever they wanted and the ship had some great activities for kids and the family. The food was fairly average, but the incredible wait staff we had each evening made up for it. Not sure if we’d cruise again – if we did likely somewhere in the Mediterranean. But definitely an adventure! Loved reading about Alaska – that was our first choice but we ended up changing our mind after research.
That trip with your family sounds amazing, Angie! What an experience! Thank you so much for the feedback!
I’m dying to know which brand of jeans you love.
Second!!!
And what was the great piano lesson advice you received? Hoping to start with my oldest soon.
Hey Missy and Heather – after lots of recommendations I went in search of a pair of Paige denim and found them SUPER discounted at Nordstrom Rack. They are my favorite pair ever. I also landed on a pair of Kut from the Kloth cropped denim (much more affordable than Paige) and wore them probably every other day in the summer at least.
For piano (Heather) the biggest piece of advice people/piano teachers gave was to not emphasize perfecting the song before passing it off AND finding music your kids love to play (not just sticking with the songs in the lesson books)
Mel! I missed you asking for book recs. I have not read the one you talk about but I do have a recommendation to you. It’s a book series, “The Dresden Files,” and they’re read by actor James Marsters. Because he is an actor, he modifies his voice depending on the character he is reading. It’s a fantasy series, think of Harry Potter growing up and becoming a PI in Chicago. That’s who Harry Dresden is and what he does – he fights the supernatural in Chicago as consultant with the Special Investigations department of Chicago PD. The first book is “Storm Front.” It’s a slow build and as of book 4, Summer Knight, it picks up pace (kind of when you’re watching the TV show Supernatural and the first season doesn’t really pick up until the boys hook back up with their Dad.) It’s a very good series, trust me. Give it a go. Sample chapter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fr3jcWG12Ow
Thanks for the recommendation, Maria! Excited to check it out (I vaguely remember hearing about this series but I’ve never read/listened to it)
FYI, there is mature content at the end of the first one and then in Death Mask I had to white out a scene before giving it to my family :). I love the series, just wanted to make you aware. Its unfortunate I forgot the first one has that content because my brother didn’t want to read any more after that one!
It all passes, that’s why I like to savor (sp) the moments. Thx for helping me create great moments w my fam & friends thru the years, Mel. U r truly the best. I feel reflective, b/c my kids r grown, there’s no back to sch at this moment in time like when my children were young. With my DH out of work, my new career as a social worker in the field of elder services has persisted through the summer & into the fall without much change. Some wardrobe adjustments, wearing darker colors & looking forward to fab fall dishes to make is about the extent of changes around this homestead. I’m savoring the peace. I wanted to share also that I’ve only been on one cruise–it was to the Bahamas a couple of winters ago w more than 30 gals that I went to high sch w-it was a pretty awesome experience to be w classmates in a whole new way after more than 30 years; A wonderfully positive experience to reconnect w women of faith. It was just a weekend cruise out of Miami, & the food was ok. I know what u mean-there were monstrous amts of it! We opted for dining room suppers, which elevated the experience in many ways. For ex., we got to know the wait staff a little bit, some of whom were international, & that made the whole thing more personal…happy Fall, Mel. I’m sure I’ll be savory the moments (& the food) all the way to Thanksgiving & beyond. Thx for your virtual friendship, the recipes & all the tidbits in between~
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Lauren! Your high school friends trip sounds amazing! I do agree with you that the staff we got to know (in the dining room and in our room area) made the trip wonderful; we loved getting to know about their families and where they are from. Good luck with the beginning of your fall season…I bet it’s natural to be reflective when kids are grown and the degree of change with the school year is minimal. Thanks, friend. 🙂
The Viking hat is adorable. When I look at your family all I can think about is your grocery bill. My three boys eant to eat all.the.time. My husband and I took a cruise that he won and I swore I would never take another. However, when I see pics of Alaska cruises, I want to do that. I didn’t enjoy eating the same food options daily and just feeling trapped on the boat.
Thankfully school is going well. We homeschool and this year’s science curriculum is fun with robotics. It also seems that writing is finally having a light bulb moment in their brains. As long as we stay on schedule, our days are really good.
I love hearing from homeschooling moms, Sheila! Robotics sounds so fun, and I hear you about the schedule. It keeps everything rolling smoothly. My grocery bill is kind of crazy, I’ll admit, but I figure it’s just a phase and I certainly don’t help it by blogging (that increases the budget substantially). Always love reading your comments!