6 Steps to Master The Art of Entertaining

Written by Kari, Contributing Writer Gathering with family and friends is a big thing during November and December and I’m all about celebrations. I enjoy going to them, but I absolutely enjoy hosting them. I probably got the entertaining bug from my mom who knows how to throw a good celebration. Never did a detail slip by her: the décor, ambiance, music, lighting, food…everything that can be recognized by the five physical senses were always taken care of. Those are the kind of gatherings I … [Read more...]

Organizing the Busy Mom’s Day with Routines Rather Than Schedules

Written by Kristen, Contributing Writer I like my days to be organized. I like to see a list, check things off, and know that I've accomplished the important tasks that need done for my day. If I can get ahead on something, well by golly, I'll take those bonus points, too! It didn't take me long, however, to realize that keeping my days organized can be quite challenging when I'm working with a crew of little people. Rather than beat myself up over not sticking with a schedule that is ruled … [Read more...]

What’s So Great About a Household Notebook

Written by Jenn, Contributing Writer Several months ago, I came across a few blog posts and videos explaining how to set up a household notebook.  While hardly revolutionary, I had never heard of such a thing. Thank you, interwebs. Since then, I have adopted my own version and don’t know how I’d function without it.  Nearly every piece of paper I regularly need or receive can be contained in my cute little binder from Target. It helps me live more intentionally, be more organized, and … [Read more...]

Organized Meal Planning Made Simple

Written by Kari, Contributing Writer Meal planning has never been one of my favorite activities. I remember when I got married almost 13 years ago the dread I faced every time I went to the grocery store. I never had a plan, I never knew what to get and I had no creativity. My husband was a trooper, because I sure didn’t woo him with my amazing skills in the kitchen. As time went on, I moved from the same ole repeated 5 meals to a broader menu, but I still despised the duty of planning meals … [Read more...]

Cloth Diapering at Daycare

Written by KT, Contributing Writer I know... if you are envisioning tubs of bleach, borax, rubber pants and pre-folds... you have got to get into this century of diapers!  They are cute, convenient, easy to clean, and daycare friendly! Honestly, I had no intention of cloth diapering when I went back to work.  I didn't even want to bring it up at daycare for fear that they would think I was totally crazy (and let's face it... I might be!).  Much to my surprise... daycare brought it up with … [Read more...]

Back to School Ready!

Written by KT, Contributing Writer It is August 8th.  But have you seen it?  All the STUFF surrounding back to school?  Lists, books, papers, pencils, crayons, glue, stickers, those stretchy book covers (no more paper bags?), calculators, new shoes, backpacks, pre-packaged school snacks, and big signs pointing you to the part of the store where all of this stuff is piled. As a mother, I am terrified.  I have been home from work since my second babe was born last April.  That's 16 months of … [Read more...]

A Practical Guide to {Enjoying} Traveling with Kids

photo credit Written by Jenn D, Contributing Writer Summertime is upon us and if your family is anything like mine, with the warm lazy days come day treks, weekend trips, and the possible week-long vacation. These trips are lovely, but I've learned a special blend of preparation and flexibility is required when traveling with children. Since my oldest was born, we have logged 16 flights, countless overnight visits, a two-day cross country move, and a couple 18 hour car rides, one of which … [Read more...]

Set your Timer {All you need is 20 Minutes a Day}

Guest Post by  Angela Busy, busy, busy.  Aren't we all? photo credit Most of us feel like there just isn't enough time in the day for everything we have to do.  And then you add all the little things that need to be done every once in a while - like organizing closets, dusting ceiling fans and organizing/cleaning out kitchen cabinets.  Some would say there just isn't time.  I'm here to tell you that there is!! What's a girl to do??  Well, first you need a Cleaning … [Read more...]

Why I Don’t Have a Daily Routine {But am Trying to Make One}

Written by Jenn, Contributing WriterDespite all the books I've read about time-management and organization (Organized Simplicity, One Bite at a Time and Tell Your Time, to name a few), I haven't actually followed through and been organized enough to have a daily routine. Routines come and go in my home, mostly because in the last 6 years, I've moved twice, had three children and have been learning the ins and outs of being a new pastor's wife. As these years have gone by, my life has gotten so … [Read more...]

Six Things You Should Do Before You Declutter and Organize Your House

 Written by Jenn, Contributing Writer photo credit Spring is here (or approaching, where I come from) and decluttering and organizing are on the minds of many, my own included! I love all the organizing tips that I read around the blogosphere but sometimes I get overwhelmed just thinking about getting my house back in order. I find that it helps me to think things through before I tackle such a feat. I need to plan my projects so I can be organized enough to follow through with my goals. Once … [Read more...]