the Weekender

middle aged man and woman with trees and a mountains behind them

Happy hellos from an overcast Spring day here in the Ozarks.

Miscellany:

1. We’ve returned from vacation (and a family wedding). We had a great trip, spending a few days in Banff and a few days in Calgary.

However, it was so nice to get home. There’s no place like home. Plus, I missed my boys.

Fact: Air travel is miserable anymore. I could share stories, but I’ll spare you the details. A few times, I thought I was in the Twilight Zone. Our travel day to Calgary was approximately 16 hours due to constant changes and delays. We sat in Seattle for 6 hours, passing the time people watching and sipping on coffee.

Thankfully, upon arrival, our bed was comfortable and we slept well. Praise the Lord.

I hope to share more about our time in Banff next week. Gosh, I love that place — so many beautiful things to see and do. I already have a running list for our next visit.

2. How was your Easter? Steve and I drove into town around 2:30-3 a.m. Easter Sunday. We crashed after greeting the dogs. I got up and watched church virtually and let Steve sleep, then we headed to my parents for Easter dinner. I was glad we made it home to have dinner with fam bam.

3. This past week, I asked ChatGPT, “If my dogs were human, what would they look like?” I submitted a picture of them that my sister sent while we were away (see below). Bentley is white, and Nash is beige.

OMG! Here was the response from ChatGPT, and below is the picture.

Front pup (white fur, alert expression):

They’d probably be the curious, clever one—maybe a little sibling or best friend type. I picture them with a stylish, windswept hairstyle, wearing a soft hoodie or a fleece pullover. Big expressive eyes, always ready with a question or a clever remark. Probably carries around a cool water bottle and has a backpack with snacks.

Back pup (apricot fur, soulful eyes):

This one gives off gentle, wise vibes. If they were human, they’d be the thoughtful friend—chill, warm-hearted, and the one you’d go to for advice. Maybe with curly hair, earth-tone sweaters, and cozy vibes. They’d be into baking, reading, or just quietly making sure everyone’s okay.

two pictures, one feature two adorable dogs and the other depicts what they might look like as humans

4. “Grandma Hobbies” — could they be the secret to better health? I enjoyed this read.

5. Seint has some new and exciting Mother’s Day releases coming soon. The BIG one is the Cream + Sugar Collection, with significant savings (over $50). I’m so obsessed with this soft, sweet, and dreamy collection of neutrals and pinks! Buy one for yourself, your mom, and/or a friend.

The release is April 29th at 10 a.m. If you’re looking for a natural glow, learn more here. Below, I’m holding the collection, which includes the palette.

blonde woman smiling in a beige sweater holding a palette of makeup

If you buy this collection from me, let me know. I have a gift that I’d like to send you. Mmmmkay?

6. Weight loss update. While on vacation, I tried to make wise decisions, and we walked a lot. I also couldn’t weigh while we were away; however, I did this week, and I’m happy to report I was down 1.2 pounds. That’s a total loss of 16.2 pounds since January 20th.

7. While in Calgary, I bought and read a book in two days. “Say You’ll Remember Me” by Abby Jimenez. It was so good! I laughed out loud, and the storyline really pulls at your heartstrings. Add it to your summer reads list.

8. This meme spoke to me: I say “no worries” a lot for someone who is 98% worried.

Hmmm. This sums me up. 100%. How about you? 😂

9. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to appreciate paying a little more for a quality leather purse (and other accessories)that will last a long time. Portland Leather has a great sale on the go, offering 30% off everything. Treat mom or yourself to a change purse, wallet, or new purse!

I’m obsessing over the large Devan Bucket Tote in the color Coldbrew. I might treat myself to an early birthday gift. HA!