Parenting Roundabout

On our latest weekly roundup, it's the conclusion (we hope!) of the renovations and room-switcherooing at Terri's house.What we're watching: We continued with season 1 of Reservation Dogs with episodes 5 and 6: "Come and Get Your Love," which focused on Cheese and Big and introduced the Deer Lady; and "Hunting," a moving portrait of Willie Jack's relationship with her dad. While we missed Bear and Elora, we liked the deeper dive into these other characters, and know that we'll see the others again soon. Mentioned: Vulture recaps of episode 5 and episode 6.Catherine's library find this week is a fractured fairy tale called Snow White and the 77 Dwarfs by Davide Cali. Let's just say parents will relate to the decision Snow White ultimately makes (and the illustrations, by Raphaelle Barbanegre, are amazing). In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed what our kids are watching on TV (February 8, 2023); how kids change their parents (February 2, 2022); and parenting-related reality TV challenges (

On our latest weekly roundup, it's musical bedrooms at Terri's house, and she now has her very own office!What we're watching: We continued with season 1 of Reservation Dogs with episodes 3 and 4 ("Uncle Brownie" and "What About Your Dad"). The kids are having a rough go of it, but the show remains quite enjoyable to watch. We also spent some time discussing the Oscar nominees and not-nominees. Mentioned: Drinks with Broads, the Fug Girls' newsletter that makes for a great accompaniment to, or substitute for, watching awards shows on TV.Catherine's library find this week is not a book, but a website called Book Marks, which is an aggregator of book reviews. Use it to quickly check the critical consensus on a book you're curious about. Or just read the Most Scathing Book Reviews of 2023.In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed support without smothering (February 2, 2023); the misery of making phone calls, volume 1 (January 29, 2020) and volume 2 (February 4, 2019); and teaching kids resilien

On our latest weekly roundup, winter has arrived, and none of our dogs are all that happy about it.What we're watching: We kicked off a new TV series this week, watching the first two episodes of season 1 of Reservation Dogs ("F*ckin' Rez Dogs" and "NDN Cinic"). We can already see that the rave reviews are justified. Mentioned: Primo and Rutherford Falls.Catherine's library find this week goes crafty again with Cross-Stitch with Cattitude: 20 Pawsome Designs by Emma Congdon. Terri was once very into cross-stitching, but she's now holding out for dog themes and the large-print version of cross-stitch. Mentioned: The Old Place by podcaster Bobby Finger and Dust Child.In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed being on call for our kids (January 26, 2022), family-watching (January 27, 2020), and being a grown-up (January 22, 2016). Mentioned: A BuzzFeed listicle and The Divorce Seekers: The Intimate True Story of a Nevada Divorce Ranch Wrangler.​Next week, we'll watch the next two episodes of Res

On our latest weekly roundup, please forgive Terri's squeaky, scratchy voice. She's not contagious through your podcast player.What we're watching: The movie The Holdovers, which is on an awards-season roll so far, was moving, affecting, and sad. We say you should grab a box of tissues and watch it.Catherine's library find this week is all about the visuals, with picture books starring both adorable and elegant animals: The Perfect Siesta by Pato Mena, Fish and Crab by Marianna Coppo, and Animal Portraits by Lucie Brunelliere.In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed unhelpful helping (January 15, 2020), other people's parenting (January 15, 2018), and texts to new parents (January 17, 2022).​Next week, we'll start a series watch of Reservation Dogs (on Hulu) with the first two episodes of season 1: "F*ckin Rez Dogs" and "NDN Clinic." Until then (and anytime you're in need), the archives are available.

On our latest weekly roundup, we catch you up on our winter-break adventures (which were less wintry than in years past).What we're watching: Instead of watching something together, we reported on what we consumed during our time off. Catherine saw the movie The Boys in the Boat in an actual theater with multiple generations of family members. It's exactly the sort of movie that it sounds like it should be from that setup: historical, inspirational, Oscar-bait-y. Mission accomplished, Director George Clooney!Catherine also watched Asteroid City (on an airplane, which seems appropriate for this film set in a space-obsessed 1950s desert town). It's star-studded, with the Wes Anderson Quirk dial turned up to the max. Mentioned: The Afterparty's season 2 episode, "Hannah."Meanwhile, Terri subscribed to VEEPS, a streaming service that allows her to watch live and recorded concerts. She's checked out old favorites like HARDY and discovered new artists too, including The Summer Set and Something Corporate. It's a gr

On our latest weekly roundup, some of our kids are moving back and forth from college, and one is moving down to the basement apartment... little by little.What we're watching: On The Gilded Age, there were many winners and a few losers in the season 2 finale, "In Terms of Winning and Losing." While we're sad that the show has not (as yet) been renewed for season 3, we also kind of wouldn't mind letting these characters stay where they landed in this episode.We also watched the movie Quiz Lady, which you can find on Hulu. It stars Awkwafina and Sandra Oh as a pair of sisters, but the twist is that Sandra Oh is the screw-up and Awkwafina is the straitlaced one. The movie also has enough fun little twists (plus dogs!) to make it a lot of fun.Catherine's library find this week is Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano. It's the first in a series about a mom and suspense novelist who gets mixed up in some real-life crime, with her trusty babysitter as her sidekick.In the archives, we revisit episodes in wh

On our latest weekly roundup, Catherine's stressing through finals week from a distance.What we're watching: On Dancing with the Stars, Xochitl Gomez took home the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, so it's another win for the teens. Good for her, but a big fat BOO to the judges for not giving Alyson Hannigan a full set of courtesy 10s for her freestyle dance. On The Gilded Age, season 2, episode 7, “Wonders Never Cease," but neither do big problems like your brand-new husband dying and your son getting scammed out of all your money. This was a very bad week for the Brook/Van Rhijn sisters.Catherine's library find this week is actually a book she copyedited, not one she found on the library shelves. But she hopes you'll check out this warm, lively middle-grade novel starring a tween boy who learns to look at dance in a new way. It's called The Rings of Jeffrey, and it's by Nello McDaniel.In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed how parents can pay it forward (December 14, 2020), holiday gifts fo

On our latest weekly roundup, we have a happy update to Terri's dog-boarding dilemma. Cousin dog to the rescue!What we're watching: On Dancing with the Stars, we went from a (not so) shocking elimination to a kinda shocking non-elimination, as all five semi-finalists went through to the finale. Go, Alyson and Sasha! And Ariana and Pasha! And Jason and Daniella! And Xochitl and Val! And even Charity and Artem!On The Gilded Age, season 2, episode 6, “Warning Shots" were fired in both the union battles and the opera wars, Ada's honeymoon ended very abruptly, and Marian was put on the spot in the worst way. Catherine's library find this week is both a book and a concept: Folded Book Art. We agree that it looks very cool, but you probably won't find us trying it ourselves.In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed our kids' special skills (December 5, 2022), our own parenting skills (December 4, 2015), and what makes a good-enough Christmas (December 5, 2019). ​Next week, our TV watch will cover t

On our latest weekly roundup, Catherine reported on her recent Airbnb stay, which didn't sway Terri at all from her "not for me" position.What we're watching: On Dancing with the Stars, it was Taylor Swift Night and, at long last, the exit of Harry Jowsey. Mentioned: A report that Harry asked to leave in place of Lele Pons, and a theory that Swiftie wrath is what finally took him out.On The Gilded Age, season 2, episode 5, “Close Enough to Touch," things got scary for Peggy (as we predicted), watchful Watson saved Bertha's dinner for the Duke from Turner's amateur-hour machinations, and Aunt Ada got married! Mentioned: The book The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah; the true story of Emily Warren Roebling, who secretly took over her husband's role as chief engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge.Catherine's library find this week is a funny picture book that asks the question: What would happen if Grandpa really did get your schnozz when playing the classic game of Got Your Nose!?In the archives, we revisit episodes in w

On our latest weekly roundup, we started with an update from Terri on her broken wrist and how her recovery is progressing. She still does not recommend breaking a bone.What we're watching: On Dancing with the Stars, it was Whitney Houston Night and Barry Williams danced his last, after a good long run. Kudos to you, Greg Brady!On The Gilded Age, season 2, episode 4, "His Grace the Duke," saw more Opera Warring, romantic entanglements beginning and ending, and the start of Bertha's takedown of her former maid, Turner.Catherine's library find this week is in the who knew?? category: It's series of thrillers based on the famed (at least locally) Lake Geneva mailboat. It's called, of course, the Mailboat Suspense series.In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed finding positive places online (November 23, 2020), gratitude for those who co-parent with us (November 25, 2019), and what we're thankful for (November 22, 2018). Mentioned: Heidi Wrangles Cats, an Icebreaker-inspired TikTok, and its pre

On our latest weekly roundup, we started by learning about the specialized profession of library moving, and Terri came up with an idea for a new TV show.What we're watching: On Dancing with the Stars, Music Video Night brought us some literal and some more creative interpretations of iconic music videos, plus Paula Abdul judging (we'd like to keep her on the panel, please!).On The Gilded Age, season 2, episode 3, "Head to Head," it's date night at a terrible play and, as Ward McAllister, Nathan Lane plays 19th-century Frogger literally and figuratively as the Opera Wars heat up. Catherine's library find this week is a picture book celebrating a holiday that doesn't get much attention in little-kid lit: Yom Kippur. It's Big Bad Wolf's Yom Kippur by David Sherrin, illustrated by Martín Morón (see a reading on YouTube). In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed unnatural consequences (November 14, 2022), mom flexes (November 15, 2021), and habit-breaking and habit-forming (November 13, 2019).​N

On our latest weekly roundup, we discuss the challenges of dog boarding and the implications for family travel as the winter holidays approach.What we're watching: As always, Dancing with the Stars went all in for Halloween with "Monster Night," with the costuming, hair, and makeup departments working even more overtime than usual (but we still think the scariest dance was when Frankie Muniz played a stalker with very little assistance from hair and makeup). On The Gilded Age, season 2, episode 2, "Some Sort of Trick," featured a great deal of romantical intrigue, with current, past, and possibly future pursuers and partners turning up left and right. Mentioned: The official Gilded Age podcast from HBO.Catherine's library find this week was more TV: A series called Jamestown about the early English settlers in Jamestown, Virginia, from (some of) the creators of Downton Abbey.In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed family to-do lists (November 9, 2022), holiday happenings and headaches (Nove

On our latest weekly roundup, Catherine is sorely tempted by some very cute kittens (it's easy because they live 2,000 miles away). Mentioned: Heidi Wrangles Cats on Instagram.What we're watching: It was time for that Dancing with the Stars staple, "My Most Memorable Year." As always, that meant lots of emotional, barefoot contemporary dances (and a bunch of Viennese waltzes) followed by judging that seems extra harsh, what with all the hearts on all the sleeves.We also returned to The Gilded Age with season 2, episode 1: "You Don't Even Like Opera." Once again, there is scheming, secrets, and many, many elaborate hats. Mentioned: Commentary on the show from the Fug Girls (on their website for season 1 and their Substack for season 2) and Alan Sepinwall at Rolling Stone.Catherine's library find this week spotlights a series called the Food Group, from illustrator Pete Oswald and author Jory John. Check out The Bad Seed, The Good Egg, The Big Cheese, and many more.In the archives, we revisit episodes in which

On our latest weekly roundup, Terri gives us the low-down on the perfectly pleasant walk that turned into a broken wrist and a bunch of other bumps and bruises--and caused us to skip a week of podcasting for the first time in forever.What we're watching: We quickly discussed two weeks' worth of Dancing with the Stars: Motown Night (aka Wig Night) and Disney 100 Night (aka a car commercial/people in varying degrees of very literal costumes). We also watched Champions, starring Woody Harrelson, Kaitlyn Olson, and a delightful cast of actors with intellectual disabilities portraying a team of basketball players. Shout-out to Kevin Iannucci, Madison Tevlin, Joshua Felder, Ashton Gunning, Matthew Von Der Ahe, James Day Keith, Tom Sinclair, Alex Hintz, Casey Metcalfe, and Bradley Edens. We loved watching them and hope this leads to many more roles for them.​Catherine's library find owes a lot to potty humor. We've got The Big Bang and Other Farts: A Blast from the Past by Daisy Bird, along with No One Likes a Fart

On our latest weekly roundup, Terri shares some decluttering success stories, including finding a loving home for her vintage record albums.What we're watching: On Only Murders in the Building's season finale, "Opening Night" (episode 9), we learn whodunit (that is, the multiple whos who done it) and question the wisdom of having very serious conversations in the wings while a show is underway on stage. Plus, of course, the next murder in the building happens, so we're ready for season 4.On Dancing with the Stars, it was Latin Night, or as Terri called it, "Dresses with Sleeves Night." Bruno continued to impress (?) with his collection of mesh shirts, and there were quite a few enjoyable, well-done dances.​Catherine's library find this week is books on the amigurumi craft craze. Therein, you can find instructions on how to crochet everything from a doughnut-shaped unicorn to Mr. T to a whole family of dinosaurs. In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed how volunteering can be a runaway train

On our latest weekly roundup, we are once again grateful that we don't have to deal with all the logistics surrounding high school events (even though we have a front-row seat to some of them).What we're watching: On Only Murders in the Building's "Thirty" (episode 9), the trio started to close in on Ben's killer (killers?). We were quite proud of some of the predictions and connections we made last week, as well as those discussed over on Drinks with Broads, the Substack from the Fug Girls.We also did get the season premiere of Dancing with the Stars after all, and found it enjoyable even at two and a half hours long. So many dances! Mentioned: Jason Mraz's songs "Lucky" (featuring Colbie Caillat) and "I'm Yours."​Catherine's library find this week highlights the cozy mystery phenomenon, especially the punnily titled food-themed books. There's one for everyone!In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed what cheers us up (October 8, 2020), Apple Watch features for parents (October 7, 2019, and

On our latest weekly roundup, we checked out a celebrity charity auction on eBay. Proceeds are going to support striking actors and writers, but we think the potential for awkwardness is rather high.What we're watching: On Only Murders in the Building, "Sitzprobe" (episode 8), set at a rehearsal for Oliver's musical, was fittingly filled with drama. The highlight was Charles successfully singing the "Pickwick Triplets" patter song, which you can view on YouTube (earworm alert!!). You can also check out the lyrics on Mashable or listen on Spotify.We also previewed the 32nd season of Dancing with the Stars, which is set to premiere tonight (September 26), but is in danger of being disrupted by the aforementioned WGA strike. ​Catherine's library find this week is a two-fer: For adults, we're intrigued by a niche nonfiction title called Pockets: An Intimate History of How We Keep Things Close by Hannah Carlson. And for kids, who wouldn't want to read about an anthropomorphic ball of lint called Linty? That's Lint

On our latest weekly roundup, we celebrated some decluttering triumphs (even as we know this is a job that never ends).What we're watching: On Only Murders in the Building, "CoBro" did bring us some more details that we should probably use to figure out what happened to Ben. But we were more excited by the return of some old favorites (Theo! Uma!) and a few superstar guests.Continuing our theatre theme, we checked out Ben Platt and Molly Gordon's Theater Camp, a mockumentary set at ... well, you can guess. It was fun and funny, but not exactly fresh. Mentioned: Return to Me.​Catherine's library find this week (speaking of stars) calls back to one of our previous TV watches, Parks and Recreation. Did you know there's a children's picture book called Parks and Recreation: Leslie for Class President? There is! You can also check out The Office: A Day at Dunder Mifflin Elementary. In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we discussed tag-team parenting (September 20, 2021), managing stress and worry (Septemb

On our latest weekly roundup, we don't have any kids in public school anymore, but we can still complain about back-to-school issues like traffic and loud robot voices.What we're watching: On Only Murders in the Building, "Ghost Light" was entertaining but entirely expendable; we're no closer to knowing whodunit. On The Afterparty, we do now know whodunit, although we're not exactly convinced the show's writers didn't just throw a dart at the murder board and then work backwards from there.​Catherine's library find this week shifts to nonfiction for adults, with two titles of note. One is scary (100 Animals That Will F***ing End You) and one sounds like an absolute delight: Empire of the Sum: The Rise and Reign of the Pocket Calculator. It's by Keith Houston, who also wrote Shady Characters: The Secret Life of Punctuation, Symbols, and Other Typographical Marks. Terri is very disappointed that she can't listen to these immediately as audiobooks.In the archives, we revisit episodes in which we complained about

On our latest weekly roundup, we have questions about when to notice someone else's hairstyle, and what to do when someone notices yours.What we're watching: On Only Murders in the Building, "Ah, Love!" upended two relationships and (maybe) kicked off a third, while (maybe) exonerating one suspect and lining the next one up. On The Afterparty, "Isabel" finally allowed Elizabeth Perkins to have some fun, and cast some serious shade on murder victim Edgar.​Catherine's library find this week is another questionable nonfiction series for kids: Scary Places, with titles like Creepy Castles, Eerie Parks and Playgrounds, Abandoned Insane Asylums, and many, many more.In the archives, we revisit chats on reality-show challenges for parents (September 6, 2021), making our kids' lives easier (September 5, 2019), and sibling jealousy (September 8, 2017). ​We'll be back with a new episode next Tuesday. Our TV watch will cover S2 E10 of The Afterparty ("Zoe and Vivian," the season finale) and S3 E6 of Only Murders in the B