Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest impact in our lives. I noticed that there were a lot of these little things that made 2019 much easier and more fun for our family. I’ve put together my list of the best ones for you. If you grab some for yourself I hope they spark all the joy!
For the Kids
Bedtime corrections: We were having big bedtime problems… the nightly routine was out of control and our kiddos were not going to bed in any sort of acceptable time frame. We decided to make a very low-tech sticker chart on a piece of construction paper to enforce rules in a positive manner. Each night any kiddo that goes to bed within the timeframe and rules established gets a sticker. When the chart fills up they get to pick a treat like ice cream or special privilege like an extra trip to the park. It has been a game changer for our family.
DIY Murals: Nothing has been a bigger learning experience in creativity for me than our mural project. We’ve had so much fun with it and I’m looking forward to what we take on in 2020. I know I’ve said it before, but…Get out there and make stuff! And involve your kids! It’s good for the soul.
Frogglez Goggles: We did a lot of swim lessons this year and goggles were a huge pain in the butt. Every time my daughter got to the end of the lane I saw her adjusting her goggles in frustration. Then we found Frogglez Goggles! It’s the kind of thing I wish I thought of – soft fabric on the back so it doesn’t irritate her hair, stays in place way better, and has a cute name. They’re fantastic.
Tie Dye: Earlier this year we hosted a small tie-dye themed birthday party for my daughter. It was a blast. But by the end of the year, I was ready to up my game. I bought dyes that I could mix myself, a few more supplies, and invited a whole bunch of my gals over. It was a blast.
Clothing options: Hoodie for Mom, Joggers for Mom, Sweatshirt for the Kiddos, T-shirts for the Kiddos, and Handkerchiefs for Dad.
Dyes: Procion Mx Dyes
Everything else: Gloves, squeeze bottles to hold the dye, Soda Ash – to pre-soak items, and of course lots of rubber bands!
For Mom
Alright now, I’ve got a few suggestions for you on things that have been at the top of my happy mama list in 2019.
The Bar Method: Finding a consistent workout routine after I had my kids was difficult. Once I started at the Bar Method everything clicked. I love the environment and community at the gym. Aside from the physical changes (which I do love), I’ve found the biggest shift for me has been mental clarity and a lessening in my anxiety. It’s interesting how every cliche about exercise is true. And that’s what I say to myself every time my brain starts telling me to skip a workout.
Momlando readers can sign up for their first class free at the Winter Park or Dr. Phillips studio with code: ‘Momlando’!
Big Dreams Daily Joys written by Elise Cripe, was one of my top reads this year. Visually the book is lovely to flip through. The content is everything a gal like me needs to hear about how to make your best life happen. I promise you this book is not like every other book out there – Elise doesn’t want you to hustle harder than ever and never stop to become the next CEO billionaire… she wants you to make space in your day for the things that light you up. It’s a message I’ll be carrying with me into 2020 for sure.
Hot/Cold Face Mask: I bought this on a Black Friday whim and quickly became obsessed. I keep it in the freezer and put it on after a long day. It’s soothing when it’s on and I’ve already seen an improvement in the puffiness and redness on my face.
The Ordinary Skincare Regime: It’s really important to me that my skin care products are ‘clean beauty’ but they still need to work! Until I found The Ordinary products I thought a high price tag was just the price I was going to have to pay for natural skincare. These products work great and don’t break the bank. What more could you ask for?
Rifle Paper Co x Keds: In my job I find myself at a lot of fancy events and on my feet for very long hours. I was so tired of wearing heels! This year I started wearing my Rifle Paper sneakers with my business casual clothes and my cocktail dresses too. My feet thanked me and I got a ton of compliments. I’ll definitely be doing this for years to come.
Tote Bag Organizer: I’m not a person who loses things often but when I do I always find them weeks later in my purse. After one too many times of losing office keys only to find them a week later hidden in my tote, I need a solution. This organizer has been so great and easily transfers from bag to bag. Sometimes I question why it takes me so long to solve simple problems!
Weleda Skin Food: This has been the other skin care breakthrough for me this year. I read all over the internet how this was a game changer and thought I’d take a chance on it. This moisturizer has helped finally rid me of dry skin without making me breakout. I love it!
What made your 2019 a bit brighter? We want to know!
