Kyndall’s 7th Birthday

May 5th, 2026 — Kyndall Turns Seven 💕

Today is Kyndall’s birthday, and my heart is feeling a little heavy knowing I can’t be there in person to celebrate with her. That’s just part of living far away, I suppose—but it doesn’t make it any easier when you love someone as much as I love that sweet girl.

Kyndall is the big 7 today, and she has been so excited counting down to it. A couple of days ago, I asked her what she wanted for her birthday, and in true Kyndall fashion, she said, “Nana, I don’t care. You always get me good things.” That right there just melted me. There is something so special about a child who feels loved and content like that.

Of course, I still wanted to make sure I got her something she truly wanted, so I checked in with her mama. Melissa told me Kyndall had her heart set on a pottery wheel for kids, and I thought—oh yes, that is perfect. I got online right away and ordered one for her. I can already picture her creating little masterpieces and being so proud of herself.

We also sent her $100 from Grandpa Kendall so she could go pick out something fun for herself—because what seven-year-old doesn’t love a little birthday shopping spree? And honestly, I’m not done yet. In a few days, I’ll probably send her some film for her Insta camera and maybe a little lip gloss or two… just because. That’s one of the perks of being Nana—you get to surprise them for no reason at all.

And of course, I can’t forget baby Liam. I’m already thinking about putting together a little care package for both of them. It just feels right.

Even though I’m not there, it brings me so much comfort knowing how well Kyndall is loved and cared for. Melissa and Trevor do such a wonderful job keeping her busy and involved. Between swimming, gymnastics, and all the activities at the Roughrider Center, she is thriving. Now she’s even talking about learning how to play chess—imagine that! She’s growing into such a bright, curious, and joyful little person.

I have truly loved watching her become who she is. Her laughter, her sweetness, her spirit—it fills my heart in a way that’s hard to even put into words.

So today, from afar, I’m celebrating my beautiful granddaughter. Happy 7th birthday, Kyndall,. Nana loves you more than you could ever know. 

Thursday Ramblings

Thursday Ramblings — Birthday Plans & Tulsa Dreams

Today is Thursday, May 7th, and I turn 59 years old on May 9th! I am honestly so excited about my birthday this year. Sometimes birthdays feel simple, and sometimes they feel extra special, and this one definitely feels special to me.

Mr. C and I are still trying to decide exactly what we’re going to do for my birthday dinner. Right now, I think we may either go eat at Interurban or bring it home and have a cozy dinner there. We’ve also talked about just doing a simple little ice cream date at Dairy Queen in Chickasha. Honestly, either one sounds perfect to me.

Part of the reason we’re keeping it simple is because Mr. C is already treating me and Cherrie to a Tulsa birthday weekend on May 30th, and I am SO excited about that trip. We’ll leave early Saturday morning and come back Sunday evening, and I already have a huge list of things I want to do.

At the very top of my list is the Tulsa Farmers Market. I absolutely love walking around markets, looking at handmade items, fresh flowers, baked goods, and just soaking in the atmosphere. I also really want to visit the Outsiders House Museum. I’ve heard such great things about it, and for only $10, it sounds like a fun little stop.

Another place I hope we get to visit is the Tulsa Botanic Garden. I know the flowers and walking paths will be beautiful this time of year. And of course, I know we’ll spend some time at the Hard Rock Casino Saturday evening. They have several restaurants inside, and honestly, I’m already thinking about all the good food.

I’d also love to spend some time exploring the Tulsa Arts District and taking pictures of some of the murals around downtown. Tulsa has so many colorful and artistic spots, and I definitely want to capture a few photos while we’re there.

A few other Tulsa ideas that are on my “maybe” list are:

• Gathering Place Park

• Route 66 attractions

• Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on Route 66

• Mother Road Market

• Cherry Street shopping and coffee spots

• Watching the sunset over the river parks

I already know there’s no way we’ll fit everything into one weekend, but honestly, planning the trip is half the fun for me.

Today after work, I’ve got several errands I need to run. I need to pick up my medicine, and I’d really like to get my nails done if I can work it in. Lane also has baseball practice tonight at 5:00. I may not make it right at the beginning, but that’s okay. It’s only tee-ball practice, and sometimes you just have to do what you can do.

I’ve also been working hard on my budget lately. I’m getting very close to paying off my Jeep, which feels amazing. I also only have one payment plus $40 left on another bill I’ve been paying since 2023. That is going to be such a relief once it’s completely off my monthly budget.

Of course, once one trip is planned, I’m already thinking about the next one. I’m hoping to go to Watford City later this year once I find tickets on sale. I’ll probably only stay about four days because I don’t want to overstay my welcome, but I’m really looking forward to it.

And beyond that, I’m already dreaming about a bigger trip for next year and hopefully even a trip to North Dakota to spend time with Trevor’s family.  Traveling takes money, planning, and time off work, but I truly enjoy the planning process almost as much as the actual trip itself.

Anyway, I hope y’all have a wonderful Thursday and are making fun plans for your own weekend. Thank you so much for stopping by my blog today.

Midweek Check in

                                    Midweek Rambling — May 6, 2026 ☀️

It’s 6:40 a.m., and just like most mornings, I’m on my way to work with a little quiet time to myself—and honestly, I’ve come to really treasure this part of my day. There’s something about the drive that helps me slow down mentally before everything speeds up. It’s my time to run through my to-do list, think about what I’m grateful for, and even come up with ideas for my Mora journal (which, let’s be honest, I am a little behind on right now).

Speaking of things to look forward to… my birthday is coming up on May 9th! 🎉 I think Luther and I are going to keep things simple and stay close to home, which sounds just perfect to me. I’ve been thinking maybe ordering some Inner Urban for dinner or even just doing a sweet little ice cream date at Dairy Queen in Chickasha. Nothing fancy—just time together, which is really all I want anyway.

Now, the bigger celebration is coming later this month, and I am SO excited. Mr. C planned a trip for me and my BFF Sherry to Tulsa the weekend of May 30th, and I cannot wait. I already have a little list going: the farmers market, the botanical garden, possibly the Gilcrease Museum, and definitely exploring downtown. I’ve also been seeing videos about the “Center of the Universe,” and I kind of want to test it out for myself—because how fun is that?

Financially, I’m trying to be mindful heading into the trip. Luther is helping out, and I’ll be getting a small bonus from work on the 15th. It may not be huge, but every little bit helps—and if I don’t have to dip into my checking account too much, that’s a win in my book.

On the creative side of things, I got a little “happy mail” envelope yesterday from a journaling group I’m in. It was a $3 junk journal supply swap, and while I wouldn’t say I was disappointed, I did realize I already had a lot of what was sent. That’s kind of the gamble with those, though—you never really know what you’re going to get. Still, I’ll definitely use the items, and it’s always fun to get something in the mail.

Today, I’m sending out a Swap Bot envelope of my own, packed with happy mail. I may have gone a little overboard (okay, definitely over an ounce 😅), but I just really want whoever receives it to feel a little extra joy when they open it.

As for the weekend—birthday celebrations and a whole lot of relaxing at home with Luther. And honestly, that sounds just right.

Food Compilation For April 2026

This month is going to look different. While we were in New York City I took pictures of all our food. We had so many good meals while we were on vacation.  

Celebrating Alisha's birthday at Elizabeth and Charles. The food was great as always.

Am really utilizing my snackle box for salad. Everyone seems to enjoy building their own salads. Plus any left overs we will use for salads at home.  Be prepared to see this dish used frequently. 

Made deviled eggs because everyone loves them! They might not be so pretty but they are yummy.

Sometimes a quick lunch is needed. Burritos for the win.

New York City Food overload coming. This burger was good but expensive. From the picture with ketchup pack next to it very small.

Pizza from New York City. It was decent but not anything to brag about...just saying.

Cannoli is becoming a new favorite to me! The one I had in Little Italy was packed with so much flavor. This one was good just not as tasty/

Grilling out for a crowd is something we do quite often. I didn't take photos till after we all ate. This pan was full of meat! Didn't take long to wipe it out. 

This month was way different tried new foods to me while in New York City, some I liked a few was disappointing. I will always try new foods because I like to think I'm full of adventure.

We

 

Tuesday Thoughts

April 28, 2026 — what a Tuesday.

The day started like most workdays do—clocking in at 7:30 a.m., doing my best to work some magic and take care of members. Nothing out of the ordinary there… but honestly, I had my eye on the evening the whole time.

It was supposed to be one of those perfect, slightly chaotic, all-American spring nights—Lane’s T-ball game at 6:00 and Brooks taking the field at 7:00. Those evenings are my favorite. They pull us out of the everyday routine and into something a little more fun, a little more us.

As usual, Luther and I had a plan. After work, I’d head home, grab him, and we’d get to the ball fields early (because if you know, you know—parking is no joke out there, and we try to make it easy on him). We got there ahead of the crowd, settled in, and for a moment, it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves.

Then came the plot twist.

While I walked up to the concession stand, Luther got a call—Lane’s game had been canceled. No notification, no heads up. Turns out several kids were sick, and they didn’t have enough players. Totally understandable… but still disappointing, especially after we’d already made the trip and gotten settled.

We ended up catching up with Brody and Savannah for a bit before they headed out to grab food. Then Luther and I regrouped, moved over to Brooks’s field, and got ready for round two of the evening.

And thankfully—that game happened.

We got to sit back, relax, and watch Brooks play, which made the night feel salvaged. Those moments still matter, even when the plans don’t go exactly how you pictured them.

On the way home, we made a quick grocery stop. I ran in for what I thought would be just a few things—ingredients for chicken salad (easy lunches for Thursday and Friday), something quick for dinner (taquitos sounded perfect), and of course, a Monster for the next workday.

Somehow… $40 later… I walked out wondering how “just a few things” turned into that. Groceries these days really have a way of sneaking up on you.

All in all, it was still a good day. A little disappointing at times, sure—but full of real life, small moments, and time with the people who matter most. And at the end of the day, that’s what counts.

#TuesdayThoughts #BaseballLife #TBallMoments #FamilyTime #RealLifeMoments #SimpleJoys #GroceryRun #WorkingLife #SpringEvenings #MakingMemories