Dare I say it? A mini van?

Remember these guys from the "Swagger Wagon" video? A satiric rap featuring hipster parents trying to make mini vans look cool. Is that possible?

Mmm, not according to this bovine.

As much as I enjoy driving my Audi wagon, it lacks the backseat leg room for growing kids. And, as they get older and want to do more things with friends, we're limited on how many kiddos we can cram fit in the car. So, I'm seriously considering a mini van.

Never had I thought I would utter those words, but when you're a mom of two active - and quickly growing - kids, at some point, it crosses your mind.

So, dear friends, I'm reaching out to you for opinions on mini vans and other SUVs. Did you trade in a less practical car for a mini van? Were you happy with your decision? If not a mini van, did you buy a larger vehicle that can transport four or more passengers in the back seat area? No, I'm not giving birth to more children. But, I recently wanted to take my kids and two of their friends to a movie. Alas, I didn't have enough room because no one was old enough to sit in the front seat, and I couldn't fit all four in the back.

Please share your thoughts on this topic - would love to hear it!

Happy Tuesday, friends!

Images from Are You Finished Yet? blog

Summertime at the Pool

In the words of Liz Lemon, "I want to go to there."

Have you had time to lounge at the pool this summer? I've only been twice, compared to last summer when we basically lived at the pool; of course, things are very different this year. Because of the chemo medication I'm on, I can't get a lot of sun exposure, although I basked in it this past Saturday. Probably too much, but it was wonderful. We've joined a new pool and the kids are loving it because so many of their friends go there. They're not doing swim team this year (praise be to God), so it's nice to just go to the pool for fun and not have to endure an all-day sweat-fest that is a swim meet.

Happy Monday, friends!

Photo by Perry Guillot, via Tory Burch's blog

Turning 40...

Amen!

Image from someecards

Run!

Today is National Running Day (thanks for the reminder from the fab ladies at a Another Mother Runner). Before my diagnosis, I ran a lot more. These days, I walk around the neighborhood or at a local park when I can. Sometimes briskly, sometimes slowly. Glad I can get out there, though, no matter what the pace.

For those of you who can run, though, get out there and do it! Stretch those legs, feel the cool breeze on your limbs and the sun on your face. If you have that ability, don't waste it for one second!

Happy Wednesday!

Image from Another Mother Runner Facebook page

A Gift to Myself

So, as many of you know, I hit the big 4-0 this month (next Monday to be exact). So, as an early birthday present to myself, I purchased something I've wanted for a very long time. And given what's happened over the last year, I felt it was well-deserved!

I have always loved David Yurman jewelry and finally bought one of his rings.

Did you ever invest in a special birthday present for yourself? If so, what was it?

Happy Monday, friends!

Image property of A Place to Dwell blog

The Death of Volvo??

Saw an interesting article in AdWeek which noted the ten brands that are predicted to die within the next year. One shocked me: the Volvo. I can’t imagine not having this staple of suburban safety, the fridge-like box-on-wheels no longer on the roads, or at least no longer available at dealerships.

Another prediction is that Martha Stewart Living magazine will fold. Hmm, no more pages full of Martha perfection?

What are your thoughts on the top 10? Any others you see falling by the wayside in coming years?

Images from basiclabelsweden.blogspot.it and Martha Stewart Living, via Pinterest

Health, Horses, Lotto & Southern Gents

Hi, friends. Sorry it's been a bit since I posted, but this last round of chemo really kicked my butt. Hate to admit it, but it did. Luckily, this was the last of the super-harsh stuff. Next week I begin a weekly regimen of chemo that's supposedly a little more gentle on my system. Fingers crossed that's true. It'll go for 12 weeks. While that seems like such a long time, it's amazing to think how much has already taken place.

In other news, this Saturday is the Preakness Stakes, so I'm hoping that our Kentucky Derby-winner, Orb, will claim the second jewel of the Triple Crown. Orb's trainer is Shug McGaughey, a Lexington son who is much admired in the horse industry. Orb, bring home that trophy!

So, in a about three weeks, I turn 40. The plans I had for a fun weekend in Charleston, S.C. have been slightly altered since my cancer diagnosis. So, the lovely crowd of ladies with whom I had hoped to escape to South Carolina are coming to Louisville to help me celebrate. Can't wait! 

What do I want for my birthday? Well, first and foremost, a clean bill of health. But, in case the birthday angels are listening, perhaps a winning ticket in the Powerball lottery this Saturday, too? The prize now stands at $475 million. I don't have to win the ENTIRE thing, but a portion would be nice. Believe me, if I won, not only would I take care of my family, but a huge chunk of it would go to cancer research and helping families who are battling cancer. I'm not just saying this; completely serious. And I would hope that anyone else who wins the lottery would consider the same altruism with their winnings. Don't blow it at the river boat casino, folks.

What else? Oh, yeah, a good southern gentleman to sweep me off my feet. Think I could find one? If you know of a good catch, friends, send him my way. I'm not desperate or anything. Just think I deserve a good guy. ;)

It's almost the weekend, friends. Take it easy and enjoy the time off!

Image salon.com, keepcalmstudio.com and Pinterst