Bookish (and not so Bookish) Thoughts

It's been a tad quiet around these parts lately, if Idosaysomyself. Things were pretty busy towards the end of last week, and then Sawyer and I were gone from early Sunday morning to just a few hours ago in Yosemite and then for a hot second in Modesto, to see my family. But we're back and feeling better about life (nature will do that to ya). I have lots of post planned for the next few days and they're all cemented into my to-do lists, so there's a fairly good chance they will appear. 

Speaking of to-do lists, the only bad part about taking trips during a week long break is that it eats up so much of the time (I know, so sad, boohoo). After unpacking THE INSTANT I got home (yes, I am one of those people- I refuse to sit down until every last bag is packed and laundry is started), I sat down and made a master to-do list so that I can divide up the tasks between the four full days I have left. I know there's a special spot in hell for people like me, but putting things down on paper makes me feel like I have control when I don't feel like I do. It's a coping strategy, I guess, but it's also super productive, fun, and comes with cute pads of paper.

I mostly listen to things like memoirs, self-helpish kind of books, or super fluffy fiction with my audible credits, and this month is no exception. I started More Than Words by Jill Santopolo on our trip, and while I find it interesting it drives me crazy how so many of the girls in these types of books are so privileged. They don't struggle for money, to cope with the logistics of life, or with other huge issues that plague so many. And I get it, escapism can be nice, and these authors aren't really out there winning Pulitzers, but still, cultural responsibility can nice.

You know how some people get super intense baby fever? I have puppy fever. I miss Cordie and Chomsky so much, but now that it's been a little over four months I feel like I'd be okay getting a new dog. Unfortunately, my husband and I have agreed the timing isn't right, so there won't be a fuzzy four-legged bundle of joy joining our home any time soon, but a girl can dream.

I consider myself a decent parent- not perfect, but I make an effort to be a good mom on every level. But sometimes I worry that I'm not being deliberate or thoughtful enough, with the things I say or the lessons I should be covertly teaching. I do a lot of reflecting, but I guess what I'm trying to get at is that I need to be more proactive rather than reactive. Sawyer is a good kid, for the most part, but, for example, instead of scolding him for dancing around while we're waiting in line at the store I need to remember to give positive reinforcement during the times when he's waiting quietly. Stuff like that. I need to go back to my elementary classroom management classes and remember how I used to handle all those crazy little kids.