Monday Morning Wrap Up

Good morning. Our weekend flew which seems to be the norm these days. Our daughter was out of town and it was a little peek into life with a college student. Beyond excited for her and I know we will adjust to the new normal. Just give me a minute. I hope you had a wonderful weekend. Sharing our Monday Morning Wrap Up on this sun-filled day.

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

So this happened. Can you believe it? The kids were out in May which means August 5th marks the first day of school this year. I think this may be the very first time since they were little that I didn’t feel nervous. But it’s also the first time my son took a first day of school photo without his sister (she was still sleeping) which felt very foreign.

To all the kiddos starting today, I hope it’s a really successful start to the school year.

SWEET MEMORIES

I can’t believe I have been writing this blog since this photo was taken. This was the first year we started the rainbow cake tradition. It’s never too late to start something fun to mark the beginning of a new adventure. A reader let me know that they eat ice cream for dinner a couple of nights before school starts. I love that. It’s all about making memories.

We made this yesterday and will dive into after school today. I don’t have a fancy recipe. We just use boxed cakes (two) and divide them into five bowls. After adding coloring, we bake and stack. There are so many options for coloring that are more natural, too. One year I made the cakes from scratch and let’s just say it wasn’t our favorite year. Too dense and everyone missed the good ole box cake.

I can’t believe this is our 14th rainbow cake. Every time we make it, I still see them as tiny holding the mixer and helping me. And now both are grown and so independent. It sure goes quickly.

PICK A COLOR

We are in the middle of choosing a color for our basement project. We are moving at a snail’s pace but that’s okay. College prep and enjoying summer have come first but eventually we will kick it into high gear. If you don’t want to buy paint and brush it on your walls, these samples make it pretty darn easy. They are true to the color and are peel and stick. The one I am holding is far too purple and will be cut. Right now I am torn and leaning towards Iron Ore because I have used it in the past and know that I love it.

STROLL THROUGH TARGET

I ran to Target for rainbow cake supplies and enjoyed a stroll through the home decor. So many pretty things for Fall. It’s making me excited for the leaves to change colors. And I love all of the plaid I am seeing. So warm and welcoming.

These scalloped dinner plates are beautiful. And the lamp came home with me. Too good to pass up.

COLLEGE DORM ROOM PREP

We ordered these last week. I think they will be so helpful with some of Riley’s lightweight pieces (dresses and tops). These are linked here along with all of the items we have found helpful.

If you need me I will be packing up dorm things. While we think we have most of what we need, it’s giving me a healthy dose of anxiety to see it all over the guest room. It’s time to start washing and packing.

If you missed this week’s Saturday Shopping you can get caught up here. These sneakers were a fan favorite. Have a wonderful Monday.