Mom. Wife. Busy Life.

Category: Tips & Tricks

Family Travel Packing Tips

Are you a busy mom interested in taking some time away with your family? You deserve it! Here are a few Family Travel Packing Tips for Traveling to help you get started on your next adventure!

If you are a mom, then you most likely understand what it’s like to pack for a family. If you are like me, you have to create a huge list of things to pack for yourself and the kids! It can be overwhelming!

As a military spouse of 16+ years, I consider myself a pro with packing for my family now for road trip and airline traveling. We’ve traveled the country throughout the years and have taken so many trips for vacations and to go home to see family.

Tips for Flying With a Toddler

Best Rolling Backpacks for Girls (great for traveling!)

In fact, I know that if I want to have a successful trip, I must plan ahead so that travel is as smooth as possible with my family of 5!

Here are my top tips for family travel packing. I hope these tips help you plan a successful trip! Happy adventures!

Family Travel Packing Tips

Make a List

A list is very important when packing. Make sure to list what each family member will need. You don’t want to get to your destination and forget anyone’s pajamas or underwear!

By making a list, you may avoid having to make trips to a store nearby to pick up items that you forgot back at home.

Etsy has a few printable family travel sets to help you plan:

Family Travel Printable Planner
Start packing a little early

Don’t wait until the last minute to pack for the family. You may be left feeling overwhelmed if you try to do it all at once.

I like to set out our set of luggage about a week in advance and add to it during the week.

When I do my final load of laundry before our trip, I go through it to make check for any other pieces that I need to include in the luggage before we leave!

Don’t forget to pack the extras

Sometimes you’ll need to throw in a few extra diapers or wipes, along with items like burp cloths and extra onesies if you are traveling with very small children.

It’s a good idea to pack one of your child’s favorite blankets or stuffed animals as well to avoid a meltdown on your first night at your hotel!

Bring Devices

If you don’t mind your kids using devices in the car, bring portable DVD players to keep the kids entertained. Don’t forget the headphones and plenty of DVDs! Make sure you charge the devices before travel.

Create a Basket or Bag of Travel Games, Activity Books, or Small Toys

I love to find small travel games, activity books and small toys that my kids haven’t seen before and place them in a medium sized basket in the car so that they have things to keep them entertained while traveling!

Don’t forget writing utensils like pens or pencils. Be careful with crayons (they can melt in your car if lost) or markers (the ink can run on the interior of your car if a child loses one without the lid!)

Bring a Basket or Bag of Snacks and Drinks

We never leave home without a basket of snacks and drinks when we go on trips! This helps us avoid stopping several times when the kids get thirsty or hungry!

Print Travel Games

Plan ahead and print a few travel games for your kids like scavenger hunts, license plate games, and more! I usually print a few activities off and place them on a clipboard for the kids to use in the car to help provide a hard surface to write on. Here are a few ideas for your next trip:

Road Trip Activity Pack Printable

Printable Travel Games for Kids – The Ultimate Activity Pack

Printable Road Trip Games

16 Page Road Trip Kids Activity Set

Do you have any other helpful family travel packing tips?

March 17, 2021
How to Make a Daily Schedule for Yourself

Struggling with time management as a mom? Learn how to make a daily schedule for yourself!

As moms, we have a lot on our plates each and every day.

We have children to feed and clothe, dinner to make, and laundry to wash. And no matter how much we clean, it seems like it is never enough.

Every time we look around, there is something else that needs to be done. It can be really overwhelming.

One technique I absolutely depend on to help me get everything done each day is a daily schedule. Without my schedule, I tend to just start cleaning haphazardly with whatever is closest to me.

I pick up a few socks, I put a few dishes away, and then I ultimately end up on Facebook about 15 minutes later with a house that looks no cleaner than when I started.

Any cleaning that I do manage to accomplish never stays accomplished, and at the end of the day, I feel like I’ve cleaned all day with no real progress to show for it.

How to Make a Daily Schedule for Yourself

I sat down and made a schedule. Here’s the steps I took, that you can take too!

1. I made a list of all things that I want to get done every day.

2. I divided my day into segments (You can work around your kids’ nap times).

3. I assigned different tasks to different segments, keeping in mind how productive I tend to be during each block.

For example, you may be most productive during morning nap time. If you have a solid block of time without interruptions and are fully awake, you can get things done. I use the mornings as my writing time.

4 Ways Your Busy Schedule is Hurting Your Family

5 Signs Your Schedule is Too Full

Mid-afternoon, however, can be a little different. Children will need attention. Mid-afternoon is a great chance to knock out smaller tasks that don’t take a lot of concentration or time, such as responding to emails or picking up toys before my husband comes home.

Benefits of Having a Daily Schedule

I love my daily schedule, and not just because I love crossing things off a list. Here are a few reasons why:

1. When important tasks are a part of my schedule, I don’t forget them.

2. I am able to maximize my time by doing tasks at a time when I will do them best.

3. I don’t have to be overwhelmed with ALL that there is to do because I’ve got a plan.

4. I don’t get distracted as easily. I know that if I just focus on the thing that I am scheduled to be doing right now, everything will get done eventually.

5. I don’t waste as much time on things that don’t matter.

6. I waste less time switching between tasks because I already know what I need to do next.

7. Crossing items off of a list gives me a great sense of accomplishment. Even if the majority of my house is still trashed, I got one task done, and that is a win! This gives me energy for the next task.

8. At the end of the day, I can see that YES, I DID get things done today. I have a whole list of crossed-off items to prove it.

For those of you who hate schedules, it is okay to have a looser schedule.

For example, I don’t schedule out every little cleaning task. I schedule cleaning times, working times, and family times. You’ll need to find the balance that works best for you.

But if you don’t use a schedule already, I encourage you to give it a try! You may be surprised just how much time you save!

Do you schedule out your day? Does it help you stay on track?

Why You Need to Simplify Your Schedule This Year

How to Get Work Done with Kids at Home

March 16, 2021
Cheap Lunch Ideas for Kids

When tough economic times force families to slash their food budgets, coming up with cheap lunch ideas that will satisfy children isn’t always easy.

Lunch ideas for kids don’t need to be expensive to satisfy their taste buds. Listed below are six cheap lunch ideas for kids!

Cheap Lunch Ideas for Kids

Peanut Butter Sandwich on Whole Wheat Bread (Generic) and a Banana

Peanut butter sandwiches on fiber-rich whole wheat bread is and old-time favorite. Peanut butter is full of the protein needed to encourage healthy muscle growth in children.

When searching for the perfect side item to compliment a delicious peanut butter sandwich, look no further than a potassium-rich banana.

Although the cost of bananas continues to rise, they’re still more affordable than other fresh fruit selections on the market.

Baked Potato with Shredded Cheese and Chives

Baked potatoes with shredded cheese and chives will give kids plenty of energy to get through their day. Potatoes can be a lifesaver for families facing tough economic times because they’re inexpensive, versatile, and packed with nutrients.

To cut the prep time on this budget-friendly meal option, use the microwave to cook the potatoes. If the baked potatoes are being prepared for young children, remove the skins to make them easier to eat.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich and Sliced Peaches (canned)

Kids can’t resist the taste of grilled cheese sandwiches when they’re cooked to perfection. Cheese is a rich source of calcium, and it encourages healthy teeth and bones in children.

Canned peaches are budget-friendly, and they’re a tasty compliment to grilled cheese sandwiches. Canned peaches tend to be a bit slippery and can easily slide down a child’s throat. So dice them into little pieces before serving them to small children.

Chicken or Beef Pot Pie

Individual pot pie servings can be found in the freezer section of the grocery store for less than a dollar. To boost the nutritional value of frozen pot pie, simply add a few steamed peas, carrots, or other veggies as a side item.

Oatmeal with Applesauce and Cinnamon

Although oatmeal is traditionally served for breakfast, it’s an inexpensive food choice that can be enjoyed anytime of the day.

Oatmeal is filling and it’s nutritious. Instead of using sugar to sweeten the oatmeal, mix in a little fiber-rich applesauce and a dash of cinnamon for an extra boost of spice.

Omelet with Diced Tomatoes and Cheese

Eggs can be used to make tons of delicious inexpensive meals for kids — including omelets. Kids love to have their protein rich omelets topped with cheese and diced tomatoes. The cost of tomatoes can be slashed by purchasing them from a local farmers market.

Even when household finances are pinched, children can enjoy satisfying lunches that won’t break the bank.

January 6, 2021
5 Skin Care Tips for Winter

Skin Care Tips for Winter

One of the reasons I have a hard time during the winter season is due to the fact that my skin gets very dry during the winter months. When winter rolls around, the colder temps, dry air, and wind affect the look and feel of my skin and I do everything I can to keep my skin looking radiant all winter! I use the following tips below to keep my skin looking and feeling great during the winter months.

5 Skin Care Tips for Winter

1. Stay hydrated.
Drink plenty of water during the day to stay hydrated. Lack of hydration may cause dry and flaky skin during the winter months. I like to drink my first glass of water in the morning while I’m sitting at my vanity while putting on my makeup. There’s something refreshing about drinking fresh water while getting ready for the day! I also drink water when I take breaks from working each day and when working out as well. I don’t go to bed without a glass of water next to my bed at night for those moments when I wake up feeling thirsty. Consider investing in a water filter or pitcher.
2. Exfoliate once a week.
Exfoliating can help get rid of dead skin cells to reveal newer skin underneath. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub during the winter months to remove dull skin cells. I make my own sugar scrub using 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1/4 cup of olive oil. I mix the brown sugar and olive oil together until it’s blended well and then use it in the bath or shower to exfoliate the natural way. Exfoliating my skin is actually one of my guilty pleasures in life as a busy mom! I try to exfoliate with this sugar scrub at least once a week.
3. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!
Moisturizing is my favorite tip for keeping my skin looking the very best during the winter months. I moisturize in the morning and at night. Moisturizing is one of my favorite routines of the day because I feel so much better after I give my skin the extra moisture it needs. I start and end my daily skin care routine with Cetaphil lotion! I keep this on my night stand to have handy during those moments when my skin might feel dry or itchy! For my facial skin care routine, I prefer to use Olay Regenerist Moisturizer. If my face feels even the slightest bit dry, I am bothered by it until I lather up! I apply moisturizer to my face both morning and night.
4. Take lukewarm showers or baths.
During the winter time, hot showers or baths may sound appealing. In fact, I’m guilty of pampering myself with hot showers and baths. However, I had to stop taking them and start taking lukewarm showers and baths instead because the hot water was actually drying out my skin! It was hard to make the switch, but I knew it was best if I wanted my skin to feel soft instead of dry and flaky. In the shower or bath, I use Dove Body Wash to keep my skin soft and smooth. If you like to take showers often, consider a shower filter. Some shower filters may help reduce dry skin by removing water impurities.
5. Use a humidifier.
The air gets dry in the winter and lack of moisture in the air may cause your skin to crack, leaving your skin feeling itchy! During the winter months, I find myself scratching more because I’m itchy. It seems to be worse at bed time for some reason and because of this, I sleep with a quality humidifier on next to me to add moisture to the air. If your skin is in need of a little TLC this winter, follow the tips above for great looking skin! What tips do you have for keeping your skin looking and feeling it’s best during the winter months?

December 26, 2020
5 Tips to Maintain Your Car in the Winter

Tips to Maintain Your Car in the Winter

Your car is an investment. It’s a way for you to transport your family to and from school, extra-curricular activities, the grocery store, vacations, and more. Because your car is an investment, it’s a great idea to take good care of your vehicle so that it can continue to run properly for years to come. Winter is approaching and there are several ways to winterize your car to keep it running well.

Ice, rain, snow and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your car. To keep your family safe on the slippery roads this winter, it’s important to take a few simple winterization steps. According to the International Carwash Association, proper maintenance can also go a long way in helping preserve the investment in your vehicle.

Tips to Maintain Your Car in the Winter

1. Switch engine oil.

How long has it been since you’ve changed the engine oil in your car? Oil lubricates the engine so it can function properly, but not all automobile oil is the same. If you live in a cold climate, consider switching to a thinner, less viscous oil. For example, a 10W-30 might be ideal for hot summer weather, but a thicker 5W-30 is better for when temperatures dip below freezing. Ask your auto mechanic what is recommended and refer to the manufacturer’s manual for more insight.

2. Maintain a car wash routine.

I have a black car, so dirt can be seen easily. After paying off our car this past August, I made a goal to keep it washed and cleaned since we had put so much money down on it. I wanted to do my best to take care of it’s appearance. Due to the presence of ice, salt and sand on the roads, washing your vehicle in the winter is even more important than the summer. Getting a car wash and a fresh coat of wax before the temperature begins to drop can be your first line of defense against winter elements. Vehicular corrosion occurs most quickly when the temperature rises and falls below freezing.

3. Check the battery.

It’s never fun to be out somewhere and you walk to your car, try to crank it up, and it does nothing. Cold weather can take a toll on your car’s battery. Before you get stranded, give your battery a once-over to make sure it’s in tip-top shape. Check the cables, terminals and fluid and look for anything abnormal. Some battery retailers will conduct a complementary car battery assessment if you’d prefer an expert analysis.

4. Update engine coolant.

I remember the time when my husband and I had to pull over on the side of the road because our engine overheated. We had to call a tow truck to help us out and thankfully we were able to get back on the road shortly after taking it to the shop. Just because it’s chilly doesn’t mean your engine can’t overheat. To protect your engine against corrosion and to help ensure it doesn’t overheat, ask your car technician to change to an engine coolant with ethylene glycol which has antifreeze properties. While replacing coolants, ask the technician to make sure all fluids are topped off, including window washer solution.

5. Get a grip on tire safety.

New tires are on our wish list this year. We need to replace our tires soon because they are worn down. If you live in an area where winter means driving in snow and ice, it’s critical to check your tires to keep you and your passengers safe. Each tire should have an adequate amount of tread to properly grip the road. You can easily see if new tires are needed with the penny test — hold a penny head down in the center tread. If you see the top of Lincoln’s head, you have less than 2/32-inch tread and it’s time for new tires. Also be sure to your tires are properly inflated to ensure optimum handling, safety, and fuel efficiency.

Taking the time to properly winterize your car not only ensures the comfort and safety of you and your family but also helps you maintain the value of your car for many winters to come.

December 26, 2020
Quick and Easy Christmas Decorations
Learn how to create these Quick and Easy Christmas Decorations using vases and ornaments to display around your home!

This holiday season, I wanted to use a bit of creativity and create some of my own Christmas decorations!

After decorating our Christmas tree, I had several ornaments leftover. I decided to create these cute centerpieces to place around the house!

Red Truck Snow Globe Christmas Decoration

DIY Reindeer Ornament

They are easy to make and you can actually find the ornaments and the glass vases at the dollar store. I did find some of the larger vases at thrift stores around our area at an affordable price.

You can set these around your home this year or decorate your holiday party with these decorations!

Quick and Easy Christmas Decorations

Supplies:
- Glass Vases (different sizes/shapes)
- Christmas Ball Ornaments (different colors/sizes, choose your favorites!)
For the larger vases, you can add the larger ornaments. When you start filling some of the smaller vases, it’s best to use a variety of small and large ornaments.

You’ll be using the smaller ornaments for space fillers around the vase to help make the vases appear to be full.
November 30, 2020
How to Make Time for Yourself as a Busy Mom

It can be difficult to find time for yourself if you if you are a mom. Read our tips on how to make time for yourself as a busy mom!

In between work, school, church, volunteering, spending time with our families and all the other things that we do on a daily basis, it seems like we are all busier than ever.

And while sometimes the rush can be fun and exciting, all too often it leaves us with no time to spare for ourselves.

This is no way to live, and you won’t be able to live like this for very long if you try.

Thankfully, you don’t have to any more. Here are six ways to make time for yourself when you have no time to spare.

How to Make Time for Yourself as a Busy Mom

1. Wake Up Earlier

If you are in the habit of letting your children wake you up every morning, something as simple as waking up 10-15 minutes before they do can make all the difference in your day.

Not only will you enjoy a few minutes of peace and quiet with your morning coffee, but just think about how much quicker you will be able to get out the door in the morning when you are able to do your hair and make-up without the kids underfoot!

Related: 5 Reasons You Need to Make Rest a Priority

Mom Fuel Campfire Mug Mom Coffee Mug Inspirational Mug for

2. Combine Errands

Running out for a thing or two here or there is a great way to keep the kids occupied until dinner time, but it is incredibly inefficient.

Instead of making “quick” trips to the store every day, combine all of your trips together once a week.

Get all of the ingredients you need in one trip, and purchase any extra school items your kids will need for the week.

You might be surprised how much time a little pre-planning can save you throughout the week.

Weekly Meal Planner Printable with Grocery List Printable

3. Take a Bath

You have to get clean anyways. Why not take a bath instead of a shower?

Break out the bath salts and grab that magazine you haven’t had time to read.

Once you get in, you’ll suddenly realize that your worries and responsibilities can wait. The laundry will still be there in a half an hour.

Related: 6 Ways to Pamper Yourself as A Busy Mom

Lavender Bath and Body Gift Set

4. Enjoy Your Lunch Break

Working moms: Instead of spending your lunch break at the drive-thru, make it your alone time instead.

Pack a picnic and spend your lunch break at a nearby park instead.

If you don’t have enough time to get away, at least hole yourself up in your office with a “do not disturb” sign.

A short break may be just what you need to help you power through your day.

Personalized Lunch Tote Bridesmaid Gift Insulated Lunch

5. Delegate

Are you too busy because you are trying to do it all yourself?

Delegate the tasks that you can and you’ll free up plenty of extra room in your schedule.

Your husband can cook dinner or put the kids to bed on occasion. Your kids can pick up their own toys and clothes.

Kids as young as one can–and should be helping out.

Chore Chart for Kids Kids Chores Kids Chore Chart

6. Let Go of Unnecessary Activities

If you’ve tried all five of these tips without success, then you very likely have too many things on your plate.

Find tasks that you can say no to. It may be hard to do, but your health and well-being are worth it.

If you are having trouble deciding what to let go of, think about which tasks take up the most time, offer the least return, or leave you feeling drained.

Alternately, decide which tasks you could never get rid of, and get rid of the others.

Personalized planner 2021 12 month calendar weekly planner

Is Your Busy Schedule Affecting Your Children’s Behavior?

Are you feeling overwhelmed with everything you have to do lately? What steps can you take to make sure you leave some time for yourself?

November 3, 2020