Happy Mother's Day

Here are some updates on the weekend ...

I finished The Book of Longings (Sue Monk Kidd) -- well written, interesting story.  For some reason it took me a long time to read though.  I'd recommend it.  Bookclub discussion at the end of the month.  

Next up -- trash read.  Woman on the Edge (Samantha Bailey).  It's a fast read and good so far.

I prepped the table for painting.  Heavy duty cleaner that takes off the sheen and such prior to repainting.  According to what I read, this is enough for what I'm doing -- no sanding needed.  We'll see.

Chickpea and lentil salad with some herbs from my "garden."  Delicious.  

I found a reprint of a 100 year old pound cake recipe.  The real deal.  No salt, no leavening agents.  All technique to get a risen cake.  I cut the recipe in half and used GF flour.  It's for MD dessert today.  Yum -- because, yes, I already tried it.  It baked perfectly.  Putting this on rotation -- especially once strawberries come in season.

Youngest is coming over later this morning and we're taking a hike around a lake inlet  It's about 4 miles. I hope I can remember how to go given it's been over a year.  Nature changes and trail paths look different.  It's loosely marked -- we should be okay.  My biggest concern is finding parking.  It's a super small lot and I bet we're not the only ones with this plan.  There are several trails and it will be populated for the first little bit, but then there's rarely many people who go up the mountain.  No dogs allowed and that's fine.  Too long and hard for Monti anyway.

Hubby took a picture of the bookshelf in Asheville after he loaded another 2 shelves.  There's a twin shelf on the other side.  Trying to fill this side with books.  Getting closer.  I love the look of all books.  (Side note ... don't get me started on the color blocking of books on shelves-- big pet peeve.)  Love this random look and every book has been read.  Some will go into the Little Free Library this summer.

Looks like kids are coming up next weekend and a day early too.  This means some food planning.  I won't prep too much here because I can't fit the big cooler in the car with the mirror in the back.  I need to plan though so I can go to the store when I get in and get food ready.  I hate to be in the kitchen when company is here -- much better things to do.  We plan to do exploring in North Asheville with the dogs and downtown without them.  Fingers crossed on the weather.

Have a happy Sunday.  Stay well.  Later gators.