Friday Five

Here are five truths I discovered (or rediscovered) this week:

1. Food always tastes better when you eat it outside. Even though the kids and I had spent the morning at the park yesterday, once we got home, I couldn't bear to keep us inside on such a beautiful day. So, we had our first picnic lunch outside! It was lovely. As we ate, we talked about the things we could see and hear around us- trucks in the quarry, birds, etc. It made me think: 2014 is going to be the year of the picnic for us Estelles, as long as the weather cooperates and there aren't too many pesky insects. It is true that no matter what you eat, it always tastes better when you're outside enjoying fresh air at the same time!

2. The louder music is, the better, at least when it's just me in the car. I had a few occasions this week when I was driving in the car by myself, and realized: "Oh, hey! I can turn it up a bit louder!" and "Oh, hey! I can listen to certain songs that I usually can't with the kids in tow!". Combine songs I don't get to listen to much with turning up the volume = instant mood lifter.

3. Downtown Northampton never gets old. I met a good friend of mine in downtown Hamp last night for dinner. It was a great time. We got a delicious pizza at Roberto's, and were informed that we were their first outdoor diners or 2014! We then, of course, had to get some ice cream from Herrell's (who am I kidding- I really go for the toppings- hot fudge and strawberries!). I've had dinner in Hamp often and I never get sick of it. This time of year, when the first warm days roll out, downtown Hamp is in its glory. Everyone comes out of hibernation and are just glad to walk down the road without 10 layers, scarf, hat and mittens on! We are so lucky to have such a great little city close-by.

4. This Baked Cod recipe is the BEST. I use all the ingredients listed except for green onion, and I just throw all of it on the cod and bake it for 20 minutes. Perfection.

5. You can own all the outside toys in the world, but the kids' would rather throw stones in a brook. Since we've had the insane luck of not having to buy any of the outdoor toys we own, I'm not broken hearted about the fact that the kids aren't even looking at them this year! They would much rather just walk around the house and yard, designating certain areas as "Rosie's house" and "Buddy's house" (never mind the actual play house that sits in the side yard). They also prefer throwing stones in the brook. This activity that I introduced to them last year, has not lost its appeal! I've said it before and I'll say it again- I love watching the kids make this yard their own. They're learning every nook and cranny just like I did at their age.

What's a truth you discovered or rediscovered this week?