The post Documenting our trip over here… appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>So do come on over and read it. Should you subscribe, you’ll be emailed every time there’s something new to read. Isn’t that nice?
I’ll have a lot to say, I’m sure (and maybe I’ll get Steve writing too; he is a fantastic writer). We hope to keep you laughing–at us, with us, either one works.
This blog isn’t going anywhere. But, at this juncture, this is where most of the updates will be!
Six months, four of us in a 24-foot camper… let’s goooo!
The post Documenting our trip over here… appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>The post All the funny things. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>I regret not writing down more of the funny things the boys have said over the years. In the notes app, typing it quickly before I forget, because they are so hilarious to come back to (and so easy to forget, even an hour later). We remember them, always, with an air of disbelief. Did he really say it that way? Man, that’s funny.
Listening to Jonsi in the car the other day. Anders from the backseat, “I want to learn Icelandic instead of Spanish.” Or how about the time he said, “Parker wants muscles to flex and show off in front of a crowd. I want them to lift heavy things.”
The delight of your kids growing older, making you genuinely laugh, understanding the humor around them, and growing in independence and autonomy does soften the blow of the diminishing baby cheeks, and rubber band wrists. They ride bikes around the neighborhood now––by themselves! Isn’t that thrilling? And me, their Mom, standing wistfully at the window watching them ride away up the street, watching their sweet little legs pumping up the hill, those same legs that grew inside my body, thinking to herself, “Please Jesus. Please keep them safe. Please protect them. Please bring them home to me.”
We are well into our homeschool year, and I was genuinely shocked to learn this year was the start of our third full year. I had to count on my fingers, twice, to ensure that I was accurate. Thrust into it, like the rest of the country, spring of 2020, but this September began our third year and I gave myself a moment’s recognition for that. If Steve wants to give me a physical recognition of that, I’ll accept.
Homeschooling is a keen reminder of how much I don’t know. The questions Anders asks are legendary. “Is the North Pole an actual place? Is it always morning there?”
We’re just over 4 weeks from leaving on our trip and my thoughts are often consumed by it. Will the boys walk away from this with the memories I hope they do or will close quarters and the smell of the RV toilet every time someone flushes take precedence? Will I drop dead on the spot if they near the edges of the Grand Canyon? Is Angel’s Landing a huge mistake? Will I pack enough jackets? Will headphones and a meditation playlist really take the place of my much-needed daily alone time? Did I overplan? Did I underplan? Will we go broke doing all the things and eating all the things that we want to do and eat?
In time, in time. Mostly, I am so incredibly excited. But sometimes, I’m a little scared too.
The post All the funny things. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>The post gift guide for the ladies appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>Christmastime is coming, the shopping feels like it creeps earlier and earlier every year, and while this is self-serving––an influencer posting a gift guide with affiliate links at Christmastime––I’m hoping that it is, like a lot of my gift guides in more recent years, one that sifts through a lot of the crap, and gets to the heart of the good stuff (or at least the good stuff in my humble opinion). My own purchases in a year’s time have gone way down. I buy little these days, and I buy only what I really, really love, will use frequently, and will last. Or at least come pretty close to checking all three of those boxes. If it’s not something that taxes the environment, that’s a serious bonus but, admittedly, not everything falls into that category (and I am well aware of how incredibly expensive it can be to shop that way and only that way). And so, with that and more in mind, I do hope this is a gift guide worth browsing. I will also do my best to update the links as Black Friday sales go live because money doesn’t grow on trees.
01. Henry Rose perfume in Dark as Night: this is a clean perfume that I really like; I used to wear Burberry Brit sometimes, had babies, and stopped wearing perfume. Well, they’re not babies anymore, but I didn’t know clean perfume was really a thing until this one. It smells so good.
02. Faherty Sweater shirt: admittedly, I don’t have one of these yet but every time my friend MaryJo wears hers, I’m touching it and asking her where she got it and it’s this one. So soft and such a perfect staple.
03. A lovely clean candle I’ve found: there’s a few things that make a candle clean. The fragrance they use, the type of wick, and what makes up the wax. Unless I’m missing something, this one fits the bill and smells so nice. Like those zen vibes when you come into a nighttime yoga class. Here’s a really cute candle holder for it.
04. My favorite skincare lineup: no more dry skin in the winter issues, brighter, happier skin… this line is so moisturizing and also great for mature skin. It’s all clean and free of ingredients that are harmful to your health too. (It still works though!) I’ve been using it for a few years now, and still going strong. Note–put each piece in your cart separately to take advantage of the sale. This gift set is one of my favorites too. Would be great for you or your daughter just getting into makeup. Bonus: their Black Friday sale begins today. Up to 30% off sitewide.
05. Do Walk: I believe that there is immeasurable healing to be found in nature and in movement. This inspiring book combines both. Bonus: the author, Libby, is absolutely lovely and a favorite follow on Instagram.
06. Matcha: it’s nice to have a cup of something hot and nourishing (especially in the colder months) and it doesn’t always need to be tea or coffee. I’ve heard good things about this brand. Organic and ceremonial-grade––two things to look for when shopping matcha.
07. A beautiful mug: speaking of a hot-something, it’s extra delightful to sip it out of a beautiful handmade mug.
08. The Walker Goods Louie Sling: I never knew how useful a sling was until I started wearing one a few years ago and then I never took it off. They are so functional, and you’ll wish you’d gotten one sooner.
09. Hiking boots: after crowd-sourcing, and price-comparing for far too long (meanwhile, considering whether my sneakers would be sufficient to do whatever White Mountains fill-in-the-blank hike I was thinking about), I finally got a true pair of hiking boots and I wish I hadn’t waited so long. These are really comfortable, no break in period, and now I know that I at least have the right footwear… now whether I am physically up to some of the hikes I want to tackle is another story…
10. Socks: again, Bridget, with these socks? They’re just the right kinda sock is all. When you find a good thing, you share it.
11. A perfect sweater: Sezane’s knits are all just the best. The colors, the fit, the quality. Love this blue one.
12. A waffle knit robe: Because robes are awesome.
13. Slippers: Because slippers are awesome too.
14. An outdoor speaker: it’s waterproof too. Music everywhere and always is my goal.
The post gift guide for the ladies appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>The post Ten things. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>A few of the neighborhood kids were over yesterday. The sun was out and the grass is finally green again instead of looking at brown, patchy spots where our lawn once was, and the trees have leaves on them, and you can just sense there’s a buzz about the air–however pollen-y that buzz is. Instead of heading into our respective homes when it gets dark at 4:30 pm, the Moms are still texting one another at 6:30, “send them home whenever!” and I’m sliding a pan of Applegate chicken nuggets into the oven, and dumping some peas into the Annie’s mac and cheese pot and calling it a success if it’s on the table by 8 pm. But who cares?! Summer is on its way and we’re living again. I tell Steve about twice a week, “I’m just so happy for the chickens too.” And I am. The chickens, the kids, all of us (minus the aphids on my roses; not happy for them).
They’re getting all grown up, aren’t they? I know you’re thinking it. I am too! They are. And while my fingers still wander thoughtlessly to click on old albums or scrolling back-back-back into the camera roll archives, I really like them right now too. Like a lot! I already said as much on Instagram the other day, so I’ll spare you now.
That was the briefest update of all time, and not so much of an update anyway, but here’s ten things that are cool.
01. the peaceful meditation playlist; when i say it’s on every morning, i mean it’s on every morning (temporarily putting the morning coffee one on pause, yes.)
02. tonight’s dinner––it’s really good and has way fewer of the typical steps that go into fried chicken. i’ve been sharing recipes a lot more here, btw. i can see this chicken marinade/method being great for all sorts of recipes — on a salad, etc.
03. this new mask––your skin is softer after one use. i felt it when i put on lotions afterwards and it was pretty impressive. (it does a whole lot more than just that too. has about 35 uses in the jar too.) p.s. it’s on sale. so is the rest of the website until tomorrow.
04. this shirt. one of those kinda-want-it-in-all-colors shirt. as it is, i have it in two (so far).
05. father’s day coming up–steve’s getting hiking boots! he chose them, but it reminded me of this post i did on boots after some crowd-sourcing. still needs to wear them around the house to see if they are the ones, but so far so good.
06. i’m also getting him a few more of these shirts. he already owns one, but it is woooorn out.
07. after trying a few times over the last two years or so, anders is finally really loving harry potter and the sorcerer’s stone. which has me delighted. parker is listening too, his second time around.
08. little house on the prairie. we’ve been watching it for close to 2 years now (we’re in season 6) and while there are a handful of episodes worth skipping, it is such a sweet television series that the boys ask for and that we love sitting down to watch together at night a couple times a week. charles ingalls is the quintessential husband and father, is he not?! p.s. it’s on prime.
09. this recipe for chocolate cake. the boiling water is weird, i know. but it makes theee moistest cake ever.
10. the cookies above! none other than half baked harvest. her recipes never disappoint. i heard this new cookbook of hers is amazing too. i’m like number 372 for it at the library.
anyway, that’s all. hi, how are you guys, miss you, hope you are well. that’s the official sign off now when i plug into this space as infrequently as i am these days!
The post Ten things. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>The post Itchy. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>This isn’t new to me, but it is new to me with a human I actually gave birth to, and seeing as I gave birth to him last week, I’m in astonishment.
We are in that part of winter where I get itchy. Itchy on Airbnb. *Googles week-long rentals in St. John* Itchy to overhaul entire wardrobe. *Sells everything she owns on Poshmark and is left with one pair of sweats and two turtleneck sweaters* Itchy to change anything and everything. *Chops off all her hair and regrets it after the first wash. Cries.* Itchy to change up the house. *Pinterest boards grows and so does discontent. Changes nothing about the house, but picks up a few new shows on Netflix instead. One is Emily in Paris so getting dumber by the second as well.* Itchy to pick up a new hobby. *Googles “what kind of ice axe did the Alpinist use?” Adds it to cart and then remembers the ending.*
I’m sure this is an issue for all parents, and not just homeschooling parents, but because our child’s education is really in our hands, do you fellow home educators struggle with the questions of enough? I’m sure, if I could, I’d be looking at a bunch of you nodding your head yes. Have I dropped the ball in getting Parker into piano lessons? Maybe guitar. Are we doing enough to check the science box? What about that cool woodworking class I saw (that costs $250)? Anders hasn’t tried enough sports, but which one should he try this spring? Why aren’t either of them fluent in Spanish yet?!?! The questions (and choices) are endless. My time, my energy, my bank account is not. I don’t feel this itch as much in other seasons. I’m wholly content with the biking, beaching, walking, activity-ing as a family. In fact, as I look at my boys on the sofa watching their second show on Disney+ this morning, and the thermometer reading 3 degrees, I know this is especially a wintertime problem.
To the homeschooling families: what little add-ons have you done (either in home or out) that have been positive?
Some pictures of a recent ski day at Bretton Woods. We spent the week at the farmhouse, and ended it with a day on the mountain when it was absolutely beautiful. Clear skies all the way to Mount Washington!
The post Itchy. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>The post MY TOP FIVE: Gift Guide for Everyone appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>For her:
The one who wants to wear comfy clothes without necessarily being in full blown sweats or tight leggings every day–these joggers. They manage to look like they’re not frumpy sweats but they are absolutely as comfortable as frumpy sweats.
The hostess who always invites you over and refills your wine glass without you even asking–this hand (or body) balm. There’s something about it. It is my favorite and should have a cult following. (When it does, remember it started here.)
The daughter who can be really hard to shop for, and probably hasn’t begun collecting accessories yet but would appreciate the headstart–this scarf and I’ve felt it in person and it is sooooffffffttttttt.
For the dear friend who takes care of herself last, drives her kids (and maybe yours too) all over town, and who really should drink more water–this 40 ouncer that also fits in cup holders. It’s great.
For the sister, the Mom, the whomever who loves a delicate earring–these hoops that I wear more than any other pair of earrings I’ve ever had.
For him:
The guy who wears a plaid flannel every single day of the week, and could probably use another (do you know anyone fitting that description? I sure do.)–this blanket shirt which is thick (like really thick) and comes in a bunch of different colors. I might’ve given Steve his early because I’m the worst at waiting to give Christmas gifts and, let me tell you, it’s great. Bonus–made really responsibly too (p.s. I stalked the site like a hawk and got one during their Black Friday sale)
For the guy who’s reading too many Washington Post articles and could take a break from them with a good book (I’m still describing someone I know quite well.)–The Splendid and the Vile aka Steve’s book pick of the year
For the guy who wears pajamas all day long, and maybe doesn’t change out of them even to rake the leaves so maybe it’s not a bad idea for him to just get some sweats that he can take from morning to evening that don’t scream “I’m pajama pants” (still describing someone I know)–these joggers; so soft and cozy and work for the gym too
For the young man who is sort of but not yet beginning to collect his own kitchen ware for living on his own one day–this double handled cast iron pan that can go right from stove top to oven in a flash for all the things.
For the guy who gets the fires started, but can never find a match–this rechargeable lighter (anyone have one? Do you like it?)
For anyone:
The person with the travel lust, who also gets down with a good rock climbing documentary–a subscription to Outside Magazine
For someone who perhaps enjoys Bill Bryon’s musings (this feels like it may be in the same vein), commentaries on life, with a good dash of humor and then some– Where the Deer and Antelope Play: The Pastoral Observations of One Ignorant American Who Loves to Walk Outside
The person who enjoys ambience so much and takes great joy in diffusing their oils, in having their afternoon cup of tea, in a cozy blanket and… in candle sticks and pretty tapers–these candlestick holders
The person who likes warm feet so… all of us–socks! and good socks at that!
The simple person who still appreciates some good skin-love–this balm that does it all from cleansing to moisturizing and feels so good on your skin
For kiddos:
For really any kiddo who enjoys building; we enjoy this game a lot and it’s great for a large swath of ages–this building game
For the kid (and Mom) who like to play games together but the parents refuse an hours-long game of Monopoly–Chinese Checkers; Parker just learned, taught me to play, and now we enjoy it together which is so great because I’m generally not a good ‘sit and play games’ type unless it’s cards
For the kid who keeps slipping on Birks even though it’s now dipping into the 30s sometimes because of pure laziness–a slip on shoe that’s always in style
To be out in the snow, even into dusk (which is like 4:30 these days); we have these and love them!–headlight beanies
To read in bed at night (Mom steals this sometimes too)–rechargeable reading light; love this thing
Okay, that’s it. Tell me what your top five are this year! Help a sister out!
The post MY TOP FIVE: Gift Guide for Everyone appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>The post Dusty thoughts. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>We’ve had a big chunk of winter, spring, and a summer since I’ve been gone in which much life was lived. It was the first winter that I chose to like, and something about that actually worked–until like February, anyway. Year two of gardening took place (zinnia and tomatoes are the stand-outs this year) and another trip to the lake and the Jersey shore (where I captured one of my favorite moments ever–bump right a few times for it in video form; worth it), lots of food cooked–most of which is escaping my mind at the moment though I did make that viral Tiktok baked feta pasta the other day when I found myself with an abundance of garden tomatoes that I didn’t want to waste (it was good), lots of books started, emphasis on started, lots of anxiety and sadness felt (you too? I’m betting.), and lots of quiet, reflective moments of deep joy too. The kids are older–Nathaniel, 28, Jordan, 26, William, 21, Lindsey, 19, Parker, 10, and Anders 6–nearly 7, taller, and the ever changing landscape of parenting is still, well, ever changing. I’m homeschooling again, year two, and am deep in teaching Anders to read which is at times infuriating and also a total gift. I’ve never really taught someone to read, so how cool to do it with the caboose of the Hunt family. Parker is working independently quite well in ways he didn’t last year, head down in his language arts or math while I go over the various functions of the silent “e” for Anders. I still occasionally, when they’re playing nicely, exclaim, “who’s your best friend?!” to both of them and have the cockles of my heart positively warmed to the max when they each shout back the other’s name. If there was ever a time to use that cockles of one’s heart phrase, it felt like this was it. (There’s a lot of fighting too. I don’t ask them that question during those times.) I’m plugging into the homeschooling community this year in a way last year didn’t allow for, and the boys are, right now, running through the woods with a few other homeschooled kids looking for edible mushrooms. Hopefully they’ll remember enough to teach dear old Mom when the world really goes belly up and those edible mushrooms are our dinner.
The world feels fraught with division, but you know what? I don’t want to address any of it right now, right here. It’s everywhere. Who wants to read about it here? If I could see through my screen I’m suspecting that there would be a collective raising of tired hands, tired eyes, and a quiet sigh of relief. I was reminded over the last many months, that people are still good, really good. Beautiful interactions are happening at every single corner, every aisle of the grocery store, so on and so forth, but we’re not reminded of them often. By way of most media? Almost never. In any case, I’d like to send love to those for whom the last year was a real bear. Can I do that? I know there’s many of you, for various reasons, and so–however one sends it, receives it through space… please know I’m giving it.
Steve and I are coming up on 15 years of marriage. 15 years! This is shocking to me, but also a really comfortable thought? No pretense, no drama, just really good friends, lovers, and partners in this wonderful, crazy life. I’ve heard marriage gets better with time, and, in my case, this has proven to be true. While, of course, we still drive each other crazy, the nice thing about being married this long is that I know I’ll like him again. Big fights early on–those fights where you literally don’t like the person you’re married to–left me feeling insecure: I don’t like this man at all. In fact, I might even hate him. Oh gosh. What does this mean? Now I know it means very little. Love runs deeper than all of it and I’ll like him again soon. What a beautiful discovery. And so it goes. I’ll be 37 my next birthday, also shocking, but feeling like, if my skin were an outfit, it’s a more comfortable one all the time.
A favorite season is upon us, where every day, every drive, every walk is a literal feast for the eyes. Outdoors is calling to me, White Mountains are calling to me, it’s all calling to me. I’m pulled to the third floor to check some homeschool boxes, but let’s not overdo it during this once-in-a-lifetime season that, seemingly against all odds, we get to experience every year. If I don’t publish this post soon, one that I’ve been adding to and removing from for the last two weeks, it’ll be winter. Leaves gone. Then I’ll have to start from scratch.
The boys are tall, tall, tall. Legs growing longer overnight. I look at them when I wake up in the morning, while they’re still deep in sleep and I wonder, “did their legs stretch that close to the end of the bed when they went to sleep last night?” When does the growing actually happen as I have eyes on them nearly every moment of their precious lives? I don’t have the answer, and so it goes. Anders was recently despondent for various reasons only a six year old is despondent. Big feelings, the brink of tears, overtired, and trying hard to hold it together, I asked him, “do you just need to have your love tank filled?” It was like you could see the weight grow lighter immediately. He sunk into my chest and said, “thanks for asking if I needed my love tank filled.” I think we all could probably use that right about now.
I’ll end with a quote from the amazing Ram Das that I’m certain I’ve used here before, and one I use frequently enough that now my sister teases me with it, knowing just when it’s on the tip of my tongue with a deep sigh as it has been during many a conversation over the last many months: We’re all just walking each other home.
The post Dusty thoughts. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>The post Ten things. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>{my picture from sunrise a few weeks ago; sunrise this time of year is easier}
The post Ten things. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>The post a list for early 2021. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>I have another post in drafts form called Reflections. I started it the other morning around 6 am–it was dark, the house was quiet, tree is lit and still up though practically dripping needles at this point–and I began. The problem with reflecting on this strange year is that my own feelings don’t feel terribly rooted. Depending on the day, the moment, the space I’m in, I have felt my own inner pendulum swing–a lot. Are you feeling similiarly?
In any case, here is what I know to be true, to quote the brilliant Ram Dass: we’re all just walking each other home.
Let’s put that everywhere in our homes, on our minds and hearts as we enter this new year. There’s no us and them, it’s just us.
I’m going to start with a list. My first post back in almost a month, and it feels fitting. I’ve garnered a few favorite things–a mix, as is most often the case with me. Here it is!
These Recreation mugs // I got one for myself before Christmas because there is something about drinking something hot (usually coffee, in my case) in a mug you really, really love. These handmade mugs are really easy to love.
Insight Timer // This isn’t the first mention I’ve made of this incredible app nor will it be the last. After years (and I mean years) of wanting to get deeper into meditation, I feel like I’m finally doing it. For the better part of the last month-plus, I’ve meditated every day. By myself, with the kids at bedtime, in the mornings, as part of my own bedtime routine. Yesterday’s meditation brought tears to my eyes. If you do one thing for yourself today, let it be this (it’s free!). I’m doing it alongside several other women in a group on the app and it is bringing me such deep joy.
This Zuppa Toscana soup // Absolutely going into regular rotation in our home. The boys loved it too. I added one can of white beans as well, because, well, I wanted to. Steve proclaimed it a favorite soup ever, and I make a lot of soups so, that’s worth something.
A really simple two-ingredient drink // A shot of Basil Hayden bourbon with one Luxardo cherry and a tiny bit of the Luxardo syrup. Oh, and an ice cube to slowly-but-surely water the whole thing down a smidge. It’s become our go-to for at home date nights. Sip it slowly and enjoy. And hide the cherries from the kids.
Hand warmers // Yes, they’re one use, and I wish there was some sort of equally small multi-use, more ecofriendly version but when you’re committed to getting outside for 2+ hours every day (I am committed. Am I committed? I think I’m committed.) in New England winters, these are a big help on those sub 3o days–for the kids especially.
Blundstones // going strong and my footwear choice most days unless it’s really, really wet or snowing; I went half size up!
Egg frittatas // Saute what you have, add eggs, and cook a bit then broil it to finish it off. An easy breakfast that’s a little more exciting than the typical scrambled eggs (which I make often too).
The post a list for early 2021. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>The post Notes for the Road. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>Now some weekend reading…
Another sweater set. 2020, man. They’re everywhere. I’m very tempted by this one.
I wish there was footage of Diana dancing to Uptown Girl… I’m shocked there’s not!
New follow and she’s so fun and presents politics + the days’ news in such a fun and informative (and nonpartisan, as far as I can tell) way. (Thanks Erin!)
This Christmas book came highly recommended. I’m excited to read it with the boys.
I shared this on IG recently, but I wanted to share it here as a last minute stocking stuffer idea for virtually anyone in your life. I gave these to all the Hunt boys last year, and they all use theirs! One of those really great, useful gifts.
What is your favorite Christmas movie? I’m hard pressed to list one. Steve would easily say It’s a Wonderful Life, I love The Holiday and Love Actually (the airport scene is like an enormous hug from all of humanity) but with kids Home Alone or Elf are up there. Parker’s giggles during Home Alone make it extra fun. Oh, and Charlie Brown, always. I feel like a lot of people can relate to Charlie Brown during the season, and Linus brings it all back to the important stuff.
World Vision has one of my favorite Christmas catalogs for kids to leaf through and choose an item to gift. It’s a great conversation starter too.
This scratch-off National Parks map is pretty cool.
These striped pajamas are classic and amazing (and on sale).
If you ever wanted to try the best skincare line ever, but in a smaller (more travel-friendly) size and easier price point, here’s your chance.
I’m having a few girls over tonight for a fire pit and I’m going to make these! Sweetened with maple syrup!
That’s all for now. Happy weekend, friends.
The post Notes for the Road. appeared first on Tales of Me and the Husband.
]]>