Whining

Today has been one of those days during which I ache for Oliver to be in school for a full day (like Jack). He's ready for it, I'm ready for it, it truly cannot happen quickly enough. I'm really at the end of my daily Mommy camp rope. I am so tired of talking about nonsense, listening to farts and silly made-up words, negotiating everything, dealing with whining. Not that any of that will necessarily cease when they're at school full-day, but I will surely have more time to regain a sense of equanimity about the constant demands of motherhood. Rain seems to be threatening again- I hope it holds out long enough for me to get out to VA and set up at my Canning Central station. I also hope I find time to grab a coffee before now and then. Mid-afternoon slump is in effect!

Mother's Day and Appreciated Teacher gifts

Do you know what makes for awesome Mother's Day and Appreciated Teacher treats? Homemade jams, jellies and chutneys! I just checked my stash and am flush with a small amount of some great flavors:

Spiced Apple Butter
Pear-Apple Butter with Cardamom
Citrusy Mango Butter
Mango Chutney with a kick
Blood Orange-Prosecco Jelly
Strawberry-Rhubarb-Lemon Jam
Three-citrus Marmalade
Meyer Lemon cocktail syrup
Treat yourself, a mom, a teacher or a friend to some of these goodies! Yum!