I just feel so down on myself sometimes when I remember the things I used to do. Remember when I was running all the time? Remember when I was reading a book or two a month? What happened? Is it all over? Am I no longer a reader or a runner? Just like the seasons change and then repeat, we have opportunities the cycle back around. Don't give up on what you enjoy. It will make a comeback. Allow the changes in your life to challenge you and provide variety. 

Our oldest went on a school trip for a few days recently and I was so nervous for her (and for us at home without her)! But, here's how we prepped for success! All went well, and we did not forget anything. I even had to bring along the younger siblings to drop her off in the wee hours to get on the bus! Phew.

Admittedly, the kids' rooms are not in perfect shape at the moment, but we have systems in place that really encourage them to keep things tidy. This is as much a reminder to me as hopefully an inspiration to you to help kids as we all limp to the end of the school year together and into the glorious SUMMERTIME!

I have a picture in my head of a morning that goes smoothly and productively. This is what I imagine that to be. I have to imagine it because mornings mostly never go according to plan. Life would be so boring if it were not a work in progress, right? Anyway, certain things are foundational to a good start to the day. Here's how I begin mine... during the school year... which is almost over... which makes me very happy.

If you have walk-in pantry, I congratulate you (and envy you). If you have a small closet pantry, let me tell you how I'm managing with mine. It's small, deep, and not my favorite storage area, but it's what I have to work with.

I'm going to get practical and just talk about a bad habit of mine that has recently gotten better. I don't know whether you bite your nails or not but here are some things that have helped me, a lifelong nail biter.

I track calories and protein, but I really struggle to hit my goals on the latter. Life is nonstop right now, and I am leaning on a few quick sources of protein to help me meet my goals until I have time to cook more and meal prep. I will tell you what I keep on hand and which sources of protein are my favorite. If you are concerned about maintaining that hard-earned muscle, listen in.

Babysitting is one of the jobs that my kids can help me with! Let's talk about when older kids may be able to start babysitting and how to start younger ones that could be "babysitters in training."

Well, I was hesitant on starting up Ebay sales again because of shipping and other inconveniences, but here's what I have to say after starting it back up anyway. Yes, I've already learned some lessons and will learn many, many more. You can be sure I will share them here.

So listen to this: this episode, that is. Here are a few ideas for you to mull over as you look at all the household responsibilities you have in a day and how you can make your own life easier. These are definitely not answers to life's problems, but let's see what other ideas your own brain generates as you listen!