| MOM OF FOUR |

  10 Fun Ways to Keep Kids Busy Inside on a Dreary Day We all know the feeling—outside is gray, rainy, or snowy, and the kids are bouncing off the walls. Instead of letting cabin fever take over, dreary days can actually be the perfect opportunity for creativity, connection, and fun indoors. Here are some simple, screen-light (or screen-free!) ways to keep little ones entertained when the weather isn’t cooperating. 1. Build a Blanket Fort Pull out the blankets, pillows, and chairs and let the kids create their own cozy hideaway. Bonus points for adding fairy lights or reading books inside the fort. 2. Indoor Scavenger Hunt Make a list of items for your kids to find around the house—something red, something soft, something that makes noise. This can keep them moving and thinking at the same time. 3. Bake Something Together Rainy days are made for warm kitchens. Bake cookies, muffins, or even homemade pizza. Let your kids measure, stir, and decorate—it’s messy, but it’s worth it. 4. ...

Savoring Slow Sundays With Our Kids There’s something sacred about Sundays. They carry a gentle reminder that life doesn’t always have to be rushed, scheduled, or perfectly planned. In a world that constantly pushes us to go faster, do more, and check off the never-ending to-do list, Sundays whisper to us:  slow down . For me, Sundays are about savoring time with my kids—really  being  with them, not just managing them through the motions of life. It’s about stepping outside together, breathing in fresh air, and noticing the way the sunlight dances on their hair as they run barefoot through the grass. It’s watching them discover tiny treasures—rocks, bugs, wildflowers—and remembering how magical the world felt when everything was new. We don’t need extravagant plans. A simple walk in the park, a backyard picnic, or sitting on the porch watching clouds drift by can become the sweetest memories. When I let go of the distractions—the phone, the chores, the endless list of “s...

  Savoring the Last Few Weeks of Summer Before School Starts As August winds down and September creeps closer, there’s a certain bittersweet feeling in the air. The long days of summer are slowly giving way to the rhythm of back-to-school routines, but that doesn’t mean the season is over just yet. In fact, these last few weeks of summer can be some of the sweetest if we choose to slow down and savor them. Make Room for Simple Joys Sometimes the best summer memories aren’t about big vacations or elaborate plans—they’re about the little things. Evening walks when the sun is just setting, backyard barbecues with friends, or even late-night stargazing with the kids. Take time to soak in those everyday moments that feel extra special this time of year. Family Adventures Before the Rush Before schedules fill with homework, practices, and meetings, plan one or two family outings that celebrate summer. A beach day, a hike, a trip to the ice cream shop, or even a picnic at your local park ...

  5 Slow Morning Habits for a Busy Mom Motherhood can make mornings feel like a marathon — breakfasts, backpacks, and a race against the clock. But starting your day slower (even just for 15 minutes) can shift the tone of your whole day. Here are 5 slow morning habits that busy moms can weave into their routine. ⸻ 1. Wake Up Before the Kids Even just 10–15 minutes before the house wakes up can give you a pocket of peace. Use it for quiet coffee, deep breathing, or journaling. It’s not about productivity — it’s about presence. ⸻ 2. Skip the Phone First Thing Instead of scrolling through emails or social media, let your first moments be tech-free. Listen to the morning sounds in your home, talk with your kids, or step outside for fresh air. ⸻ 3. Start with Connection, Not Chores Make eye contact, cuddle, or share a laugh before diving into the morning rush. These tiny moments of connection set a calm, loving tone for the day. ⸻ 4. Create a Simple Morning Ritual This could be lighting...

Ways for Busy Moms to Invest in Yourself As a mom, you give so much of yourself to your family every single day. Between the school drop-offs, extra-curricular activities, meal prep, cleaning, and work—your own needs can easily slip to the bottom of the list. But here’s the truth: investing in yourself isn’t selfish. In fact, it’s one of the best gifts you can give your family. When you take time to nurture your own well-being, you show up as a happier, healthier, and more energized mom. Here are some powerful ways to invest in yourself, even with a busy schedule. ⸻ 1. Prioritize Your Health Your health is your foundation. Schedule your check-ups, drink enough water, and move your body daily—whether it’s a quick walk with the stroller, a yoga session while the kids nap, or an early morning workout. ⸻ 2. Learn Something New Pick up a new skill or hobby just for you—painting, photography, baking, or even starting an online course. Expanding your knowledge is an investment that pays you b...