Saturday's Bliss

Six reasons why I love Saturdays:

1. I am home with my kids (and usually my husband, unless he has to work) after another very busy week. I am constantly craving time with my kids where I can devote my time and attention just to them. I am already looking forward to next Saturday. :o)

2. Saturday mornings. We spend time together as a family...just the four of us (well, five of us if you include our pug, Irving). I usually make gluten-free pancakes for Mia (see above pic), and then we all stay in our jammies and Jay and I spend time playing with the kids. It is our time together to "re-group." We don't get time like this very often, so I look forward to it every week.

3. Cleaning. I love to clean and I love having a clean house. When Saturday finally arrives, my house is a mess from us rushing in and out all week long. So, after the kids are down for a nap in the afternoon, I go to work! And I always listen to Diana Krall when I clean. It is a long-time tradition that I have. Her voice is soothing and relaxing and I find that I get more done when I am listening to her jazzy voice.

4. Preparing for the upcoming week. I am a planner. I am an organizer. And I like that I am this way. I enjoy looking at the calendar and knowing EXACTLY what I need to prepare for. I usually spend Saturdays (and Sunday afternoons and evenings) making meals for Mia that I can freeze. Those are my "prep days." That way, I am always one step ahead of the game. Preparing ahead of time means less stress in the long run...and more time with my husband and kids.

5. Cooking shows. I don't get to watch much tv during the week, so I enjoy turning on the Food Network and watching a cooking show or two. My favorite shows are: "Everyday Italian" with Giada De Laurentis, "Barefoot Contessa" with Ina Garten, "Paula's Home Cooking" and "Paula's Party" with Paula Deen, and "Road Tasted" with Paula Deen's sons, Bobby and Jaime. :)

6. Calling home. Yes, I will admit, I do call home at least three or four times every day during the week (my parents just LOVE IT!). So, I love Saturdays because having a "free day" provides me with the opportunity to call them seven or eight times! My husband was very wise to get us unlimited long-distance. My phone calls to them begin early in the morning and, since they both stay up pretty late at night, I will call them all the way up until 11:00 p.m. They like to pretend they are sleeping, but I know better! ;o) Thank, Mom and Dad, for always "lending an ear" to a daughter who is far, far away.

HOORAY FOR SATURDAYS!