Life and Hacks

Hey we all got great mom hacks. Send me your best and I’ll include them in my post! 

As a busy mom of six, I’ve learned that taking care of myself isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline.

Yes, the days are full. Yes, the to-do list never ends. But I’ve made self-care a non-negotiable part of my week, and it’s changed everything.

The gym is my anchor.

I go 4 days a week — early mornings, right after drop-off. And the best part? I go with my husband. It’s become our sacred time to focus on us, push each other, and reconnect without distractions. It’s more than fitness — it’s partnership.

Nightly showers are my reset.

Every night, once the house quiets down, I treat myself to a long, hot shower. It’s my version of a spa — the steam, the calm, the fresh start before bed. It’s seriously one of the sweetest gifts I give myself every day.

Skincare? I keep it simple and nourishing.

I use [insert your favorite cleanser or product here if you’d like], and I love adding in face masks when I can — usually while multitasking with laundry or editing my book. A good clay or sheet mask makes me feel pampered in under 10 minutes.

Pedicures and polish? When I can squeeze them in.

Whether at the salon or just a DIY moment with a fresh coat of polish and a good podcast, taking care of my feet makes me feel grounded — literally.

And reading… oh, reading.

A few nights a week, I’ll curl up with a book instead of my phone. Whether it’s fiction, faith-based, or something inspiring, reading feels like a quiet little luxury that fills my soul.

Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate. It’s about tuning in to what you need — movement, stillness, connection, rest. And giving yourself permission to take it.

💛 Because when I care for me, I’m better for everyone else, too.

🌞 

Top 20 Family Summer Bucket List

1. ✅ Have a backyard water balloon fight
2. ✅ Go on a sunset picnic at the park
3. ✅ Make homemade popsicles or ice cream
4. ✅ Camp in the backyard under the stars
5. ✅ Visit a splash pad, pool, or beach
6. ✅ Have a themed family movie night (with matching snacks!)
7. ✅ Paint giant sidewalk chalk art together
8. ✅ Host a backyard BBQ with games and music
9. ✅ Build a blanket fort and read stories inside
10. ✅ Go stargazing and try to spot a constellation
11. ✅ Make tie-dye shirts as a family
12. ✅ Go on a nature scavenger hunt
13. ✅ Have a tech-free family day
14. ✅ Roast marshmallows and make s’mores
15. ✅ Visit a local farmer’s market and pick something new to try
16. ✅ Set up a lemonade stand or snack shop
17. ✅ Let each kid plan a “Family Fun Day”
18. ✅ Create a summer scrapbook with photos and drawings
19. ✅ Wash the car together (and get soaked doing it!)
20. ✅ End summer with a “Yes Day” where the kids plan everything*

*within reason, of course 😄

🎬 

1. The Sandlot (1993)
   Baseball, friendship, and classic summer vibes — a total must-watch!
2. Moana (2016)
   Adventure on the ocean, gorgeous animation, and a strong, brave heroine.
3. Lilo & Stitch (2002)
   Hawaiian beaches, sisterhood, and an adorable alien? Yes, please!
4. Finding Nemo (2003)
   Underwater adventure with heart and humor that never gets old.
5. The Parent Trap (1998 – Lindsay Lohan version)
   Summer camp, twin switcheroo, and family fun.
6. The Goonies (1985)
   Treasure hunts and childhood adventure — great for older kids.
7. Paddington 2 (2017)
   Wholesome, hilarious, and full of charm. A feel-good favorite.
8. Luca (2021)
   A seaside Italian village, summer friendship, and sea monster secrets.
9. Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)
   Classic backyard adventure with a fun retro twist.
10. Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022)
    Lighthearted and laugh-out-loud fun for all ages.

1. Uno
   Simple, fast-paced, and always ends with someone shouting “Draw Four!”
2. Charades
   No supplies needed — just your best acting skills and belly laughs.
3. Pictionary
   Team up and try to guess the masterpiece (or mess) before time runs out.
4. Minute to Win It Games
   Quick, goofy challenges using things you already have at home. Great for all ages!
5. Family Feud (DIY or card version)
   Split into teams and battle it out with hilarious answers.
6. Hedbanz / Headbands
   Wear a card on your head and guess what you are using only yes/no questions.
7. Freeze Dance
   Play music, dance wildly, then FREEZE — great for burning energy and big giggles.
8. Connect 4 Tournament
   Hold a family bracket and see who the real strategist is!
9. Scavenger Hunt (Indoor or Outdoor)
   Great for teamwork, adventure, and keeping little ones busy.
10. Just Dance (or YouTube dance battles)
    Crank up the tunes and let the moves (and the silliness) fly.