Seeking Help: How I Take Care of My Mental Health

When I was 22, I lost someone very important to me. His death was sudden, and it consumed me. My parents wanted me to talk to someone, but I was so hesitant. I fought the idea but because I could see the worry in my dad's eyes, I talked. Then, I talked some more. This wonderful counselor brought me back to life.

Fast forward three years, and that worried, amazing, hardworking dad of mine was gone suddenly, too. I knew exactly where I would find peace and understand this new grief cycle.

Having kids. Changing jobs. Health scares. Anxiety sprinkled with sneaky depression. My previous counselor was gone so I had to find another one. Trial and error until I found my fit. And that fit saves me every two weeks. In the past, I would go when I needed my "fix" - an objective view of how I was dealing with life. But, now with the loss of my brother and all the crazy ass grief that follows, I know I cannot figure it out in one day and I sure as hell can't figure it out alone.

This is why I see a counselor.

There's a huge part of me who is hesitant to share this. But, we get annual check-ups for our physical health, why not the mental? Mental illness and/or mental health is so taboo - it's risky to talk about. It's scary to say you get help. Some people believe you should keep that part of your life to yourself. But, why?

SO many people suffer daily with anxiety and sadness. If you're like me, you can function with anxiety, but you fight like hell to keep it at bay on a daily basis. Mine is all mental. I don't have panic attacks, but I can take a small daily crisis and turn it into the greatest catastrophe. And my special super power is I can do it in about 2.5 seconds. This is why I see a counselor.

I have written before about mental health. I have had great friends find great help just because everyday life is no joke. I also have AMAZING friends who get me - they get that when plans change, I freak a bit. They get that some moments with my busy toddler cause me angst. They get that a story on social media triggers my grief. They get it.

And you know who else gets me? My counselor. She gives me hope. She gives me resources. She opens my eyes every time I go. When I leave, I honestly feel 10 pounds lighter.

And right now, in this crazy grief cycle of anger and sadness (currently stuck between the two - it's a joy), she lets me feel and lets me let it ALL out. Sometimes the things I say even surprise me. She's saving me with every visit.

So there you have it - I said it. I see a counselor. People may be weirded out by that statement. People may think I'm weird. That's okay. But, there may be one person who reads this and says, "ok, I am going to get ME checked out." Heck, even Prince Harry is speaking up about mental health.

Maybe this post is about people understanding me. Understand that while I am mess with my worry, I am trying. Isn't that what we should all do?

Life has been so damn hard, but it has been so damn awesome, too. I may never be cured from anxiety, and grief may continue to go in it's crazy cycle, but I am trying every single day.

That's why I see a counselor.

You can see my other mental health posts by clicking MOM WELLNESS at the top of my page.

5 Camping Tips for Beginners

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend - we sure did! This year, we went on a camping adventure with some sweet friends. Just us, the great outdoors, and no fuss. While I am definitely new to the camping experience - and we have quite a bit to learn - we already have plans to do it all again!

We learned SO much this weekend about what works and what doesn't - from the prep to the camping itself! And just this week, I asked my Instagram friends good vacay ideas for the fam, and an overwhelming majority said camping. If camping is in your summer plans and you've never gone before, you will learn a bit from our mistakes and these 5 camping tips for beginners.

RENT

If you want to tent camp, go for it! But, with a high maintenance toddler (and maybe mama but who's counting), we rented an RV! If you're new to the RV world, which we clearly are, rent one first to see how it is. There are SO many options - it's crazy to be honest. For our family of four, we went with a set of bunk beds and a queen bed. Our camper looked similar to this one.

And while we may purchase one some day, we prefer to rent when the camping bug strikes. Feeling out a few is also helpful to picking one we really love. Renting one also helps you learn the ins and outs of RV living - it takes work to get it set up and to take down, so learn away!

TRUST THE EXPERIENCED CAMPERS

God bless our camping friends. We went with three other families who all go camping often. We met to plan our meals, and they sent us packing lists, too. Though we forgot a few staples (the wine opener...hello??), they had back-ups. And, we walked through their campers and took notes on what necessities we would need should we go again. They were life savers!

Find your camping expert buddies and pick their brains. But, better yet - GO CAMPING WITH THEM! You learn as you go!

MEAL PLAN

No matter if you go with friends or go solo, meal plan just as you do at home. Pick a night for grilling or a night for a fish fry (we did both). These RVs have the capacity to cook almost anything, and if you are missing a kitchen appliance/pot/etc, I can bet you can find it and add it to your camping supplies.

Plan out lunches too - we did sandwiches which are easy to tote around as you swim, hike, or picnic. Snacks are easy too - goldfish, chips, cut up fruit, s'mores, and cheese were our favorites. Trust me, you will SNACK like a boss.

PACK SIMPLE

This tip is seriously my favorite. I loved packing for this trip - all the graphic tees, shorts, yoga pants, and bathing suits I could find. And, I didn't even bring a hair dryer! Hats, dry shampoo, and boom. You are not fancy, and it's awesome!

Packing for the kids is simple too - play clothes and all their bathing suits. No craziness needed because it's just you, your peeps, and nature.

RELAX

If you've been reading a while, you know I can get worked up pretty easily. And, I did have crazy scenarios flash through my head about what could happen while out in the wilderness, but once I saw my kids' excitement, I tried to chill. It was nice losing service and not having anyone scream for an iPad. It was nice to sip coffee under the trees. And it was nice to sit around the late-night campfire after the littles went to bed.

You are creating amazing memories with your kids. When you can see their joy (even after a certain toddler melted down like a loon when hiking), it's just plain fun.

Have you been camping before? I'd love to hear tips that made your trip awesome. We are excited for our summer camping adventure - and you can bet I will have that wine opener!

Special thanks to Jane - camping/photographer/breakfast extraordinaire for the help, pictures, and that breakfast I can't stop thinking about!

What Turning 40 Means For Me

Some have commented that I celebrated 40 for a long time. And, we honestly have - Napa in the fall, a surprise birthday gathering in early March, and my Round Top getaway on my actual birthday. It's not about attention at all - it's about letting it just sink in, and I had to - slowly.

Forty means a great deal to an anxious and busy mama. Forty means all the memories come rushing back - as if they happened yesterday. Life goes too fast, you guys. And it's fun, crazy, and bittersweet. No matter what age you turn this year, you are allowed to feel nostalgic, remember the glory days, and even celebrate as long as you see fit!

Before I let it all go and jump right into my fabulous 40s, I wanted to flashback and remind myself what storms and triumphs I've endured.

I still remember when my dad had his first heart attack when I was four.

I still remember moving to that Texas cul-de-sac from Louisiana soon after.

I still remember the epic Halloween parties my neighbors had each year.

I still remember being so afraid I couldn't reach my top locker in middle school.

I still remember being devastated when I didn't make cheerleader.

I still remember how nervous all my friends and I were on the first day of high school so we carpooled in one car.

I still remember my first broken heart.

I still remember sitting on my day bed wondering if my crush would call. On my personal phone line.

I still remember getting my college acceptance letter and knowing that school was the one.

I still remember sorority bid day.

I still remember my first day of student teaching.

I still remember losing Michael. Then Dad. Then Maw-Maw. Then my brother.

I still remember thinking my next door neighbor in my apartment building was cute. Then, I married him 4 years later on one of the best days (and best parties) ever.

I still remember telling my husband we were going to have a baby. Then the day 4 years later when I got to say it again.

I still remember worry. Anxiety. Excitement. Joy. Peace. And repeat over and over again.

These memories are so fresh. Many feel like yesterday. So how can I be 40? The pessimist in me is sad that it all happened so fast. But, then I think how blessed I am. The blessings surround me. I know my repeat emotions will happen, but at 40, I am blessed because I am here. God chose this life for me, and He helped this birthday happen.

The celebrations have ended, but the best year is here. Thanks for being on this ride with me and letting me talk about it for so long.

More memories to come!

Crispy Cheese Cookies

If you follow me on Instagram, I shared a bit of our Saturday on my Insta-stories. Every spring, we have a crawfish boil at our home - in fact, we've been doing it for 17 years! Our friends and family bring their lawn chairs, favorite beverages, treats to share, and we all gather around the big crawfish table and dig in! I have to say - the hubs makes the BEST crawfish.

One of my favorite parts is all the goodies people bring - from zesty apps to decadent desserts, we have quite the buffet. But this year, a friend brought these crispy cheese cookies that were a huge hit. Once I bit into one, I knew I've had them before so I searched my recipe binder and found it to share with you!

Ingredients -

3 sticks unsalted butter
24 oz. sharp cheddar cheese - shredded
3 cups of flour
1 tsp salt
1 3/4 tsp red cayenne pepper
4 1/2 cups of rice crispies cereal

1. Cream butter in a large bowl.
2. Work in shredded cheese and red cayenne pepper.
3. Work in flour, salt, and rice crispies.
4. Take small sections of the mix and form small round balls.
5. Place each ball in rows on waxed paper lined cookie sheet.
6. Use the back of a fork to slightly flatten each ball.
7. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes until the edges are softly browned.
8. Cool then enjoy!

These cookies are perfect for parties or a great addition to any meal - even breakfast! The sharp bite of each cookie is so savory. The crunch and the spice is just right, too. Trust me, you will make these and people will want to know exactly what they are!

What a great addition to your Easter brunch. AND, I know we have a while for football season, so PIN THIS recipe and make at your next tailgate!

You will love every bite! If you make them, let me know what you think. Cheese and rice crispies? Who knew!

25 Non-Candy Easter Basket Ideas

Next to Christmas, Easter is my favorite - the meaning, the spring weather, and the joy of my kids. This year, we are going on an adventure out of town, but you can bet our Easter baskets will still be waiting on Sunday!

And does anyone still have Valentine's Day candy stashed somewhere? *Raises hand* We still have tons - though hidden and used for special occasions (potty training!) so we do not need anymore sugar in this house. When thinking of what to put in their Easter baskets, I went the non-candy route and thought about each one's interests. There you have my 25 non-candy Easter basket ideas!

Think of your little ones - what do they love to do? For my toddler, anything girly and artsy. For my big boy, any book, car, or gift card will do. I took some of their favorite must-haves and made this fun list. The Target $1 bin could also be your best friend when it comes to filling their baskets.

I wanted to hold this I See Me! book until Easter Sunday, but I just couldn't keep it to myself. Thank you to I See Me! for sending us a sweet and precious book filled with reminders of God's blessings. It's personalized for my little bit and includes prayers of thanks for family and all her little friends. Can't you see how much she loves it?

I See Me! doesn't have just the personalized books, they also have lunchboxes, puzzles, coloring books, placemats, stickers, and growth charts.  I have my eyes on a cute lunchbox for this love already. And think of birthdays, baby showers, etc...What a keepsake to give someone you love!

If you're looking for a personalized gift, check out I See Me!

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Em takes her book everywhere she goes. My favorite has to be her big brother reading the book to her. All the warm feels. See why I love Easter?

I hope you all have a beautiful Easter season. Remember why we celebrate this day. Share that joy with your littles!

This sweet book is courtesy of I See Me! in exchange for a review. As always, the opinions are 100% my own.

The Best Healthy Snack For On-The-Go

Give my kids a carrot or zucchini slices as a snack - no go. Give them a brownie or a sweet muffin - all the excitement. What if these goodies could be combined into ONE delish treat? I am so excited to share our latest favorite snack to take on-the-go. Whether you are scrambling to get out the door or you want to add some more nutrition to a meal, Garden Lites will have mom AND kids feeling happy and satisfied.

Veggies are the first ingredient in every Garden Lite product - from the muffins to waffles and from bakes to veggie cakes. In fact, they are 33% vegetables! And, Garden Lites are on a mission - just like any busy mom - to create delicious foods that are truly healthy. 'Eat your vegetables' has never sounded (or TASTED) so good. My kids have especially loved the Chocolate Krabby Square Muffins and the Blueberry Oat Muffins which are allergy-friendly, gluten, dairy and nut-free.

It never fails - the toddler wants a snack as soon as we hit the road, and my big kid demands one after school (or sometimes he is eating his breakfast as he chases the bus #morningprobs). Now that I've introduced them to my latest find, we are all happy campers.

Sneak one into your purse or diaper bag when you are out with the littles for that perfect snack just for you (maybe keep that a secret). Or, better yet, pack one into your kids' lunches. Peace of mind plus kids gobbling up their Garden Lite is such a simple thing to make your day easier.

We add Garden Lites to our grocery list when we hit our favorite H-E-B store. We find ours in the freezer section near the gluten-free items. You can find yours in the freezer section of your nearest Publix, Stop & Shop, Giant, Shop-Rite, HEB, Kroger or Costco.

I'm not sure I want to tell my son (the pickiest of my two) that he just ate a good share of healthy veggies AND he liked it. What he doesn't know won't hurt him, right??

Now, here's a fun mom challenge for you - after purchasing your Garden Lites, let your kids try it without telling them your little secret that these treats are veggie rich and provide a convenient way to get in those vegetables. Just wait for their reaction! See? They DO like vegetables after all.

That's what I call a mom-win.

To learn more about Garden Lites, their products,

and to find a store near you, click HERE!

5 Simple Tips To Complete Your First Half Marathon

Hold up, don't say you would never be ever to run a half marathon. Because I am here to say YES, YOU CAN.  This self-proclaimed hater of running (and pushing 40) never thought she would be able to do it, and then life got hard so she wanted to go harder.

Disclaimer: I am not a personal trainer nor fitness expert. I highly recommend you talk to your doctor before starting a running program if you have any concerns. I am just a mom who wants to share five simple ways to complete your first half marathon.

Pick A Run - Set the date. Write it on the calendar. I chose a race in Louisiana because my nephew and cousins ran it last year and loved it. I also knew I would have family at the finish line so I chose the Zydeco Half. For me, I picked a date that gave me 3-4 months to train. If you are new to running and you're busy, it may take time to get a program/routine going.

Get Fitted For Shoes - With the race date set, go get some good shoes! I asked all the running pros, and they suggest 3 months ahead of the race, get your new kicks. I headed to Ground Up and tried on multiple pairs before I found the fit for me. I also used these shoes only for running and wore my older favorites for at-home workouts or strength training.

Start Planning - I loosely followed this Hal Higdon plan because some weekday runs did not allow for long distances. I wrote down a long run on each weekend since I had more time to run and the hubs was home. Another friend also suggested running 13 miles a week so I incorporated this idea into my planning. If I ran 6 on a Saturday, I completed the other 7 some way during the week.

Find A Running Buddy - Honestly, this is my #1 tip for running your first half. Sign up with a friend or set up long run dates. My friend Kim and I met five different weekends to run the long ones. We had the same pace, and it gave us plenty of time to catch up, motivate, and counsel each other. The brunches we did after weren't too bad either.

For race day, I had my cousin by my side. She ran with me the whole race, stopped when I did, and pushed me to finish in my goal time (which was 2:30 - I finished in 2:26!). There is NO way I could have finished this milestone without her.

CELEBRATE - Cry. High five a stranger. Raise a glass. Share your joy. You just ran 13 miles. Moms, this runner's high is no joke and add in your littles at the finish line - it's truly amazing. The run gave me hope and proved that after hardship, I can do hard things. I can survive hard things.

For more great tips for running your first half, these posts can help:

Running Tips for the Beginner - Always A New Day
My Half Marathon Experience - Seven Graces
Half Marathon Training Tips - Momma To Go

If you have questions or other tips to share, please do. My next run is scheduled for December. Any takers? :)

Why I Love Spring Cleaning

I am just not a fan of January and February. In Texas, we aren't even sure what season we are in - some days, it's summer. The next - you may have a slight freeze. But, with March's fresh air comes a sense of newness - of cleanliness. It puts me in the mood to start fresh, to enjoy our few months without all the summer sweat. March makes me want to share why I love spring cleaning.

Oh, the clutter. Have you seen that episode of Friends when they discover Monica's closet? The one where they open this secret door to all the mess she's been hiding? Hi, I'm Monica. You will find my hidden clutter in "junk" drawers in the house. You will find my clutter in the guestroom closet. You might even find it in all the random baskets/bins in the game room where small toys go to die. I open and close these hidden spots often because I can't even. Yet, when spring comes, I get the burst to purge and feel human again.

I will spend time in these crazy spots and make piles: what to keep/what to donate or sell/what to toss. Even if these Monica spots stay clean and organized for just a day or two - #winning.

And, I have a confession. Since I've had kids, I am a terrible housekeeper. I don't see the point of spending hours scrubbing this or that when kids take .5 seconds to destroy it all. I have used a cleaning schedule before that works for me - I pick a room (i.e. living room) or a task (i.e vacuuming) to complete each day. I don't spend hours cleaning - ain't no mama got time (or energy) for that.

I also love finding tools that make cleaning easier. I really don't know why this gem has JUST NOW entered my life, but I am loving my new Libman Tornado Mop I purchased at Walmart. The size, the ease, and the spaces this thing can reach are lifesavers. You won't end up with sloppy floors or excessive water because of it's fancy wringing feature.

Mopping isn't my favorite. But, with this mop and my vinegar/soap/baking soda DIY floor cleaner, my kitchen looks and smells fab. And did you know that The Libman Company has been around for 120 years? This family-owned business has made quality their priority, offering the finest USA-made brooms, brushes, mops, and cleaning tools.

Learn more about Libman by clicking HERE

and downloading a $3 off coupon for your Libman mop -

they have other varieties you'll love, too!

ADDED BONUS: Enter The Libman Company’s Pinterest sweepstakes - follow The Libman Company on Pinterest and re-pin from their sweepstakes-specific board. Create a “Spring Cleaning Toolkit” using images of The Libman Company’s products and Spring cleaning tips from the pinboard, and then enter your information on The Libman Company’s Facebook page.

Invite your friends to enter as well!
FIVE winners will receive a “Spring Cleaning Toolkit” comprised of Libman products, and one additional winner will receive a prize package plus a $1,000 cash prize.

Do you spring clean? I'd love to hear any tips and tricks that you use to declutter. My house and my sanity will be forever grateful!

How Moms Save Money When Shopping Online - With Groupon

Disclaimer - This is a sponsored post. As always, the thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. Thanks for supporting Always A New Day.

Raise your hand if you love anything that makes your daily chores easier. Yes, please! With two kids always on the go, I turn to online shopping to get errands complete. And to be honest - it saves my sanity instead of taking a certain precious and precocious threenager to the stores. Where are my toddler moms? Can you feel me?

When you can save money, too - it's such a huge win and makes any mom feel like the queen of the world. I love getting my daily emails from my favorite coupon site and wanted to share how you can also benefit from the amazing world of Groupon.

Since I became a SAHM almost four years ago, we definitely had to cut costs. I am no coupon guru, but I do love the latest deals and ways to cut costs on our everyday needs. If you have been around or follow me on Instagram, you know my son is ALL about sports - football especially. Gone are the days of super hero tees. Now, we beg for the latest gear from Nike. How excited am I that Nike has some steals happening over at Groupon? Check out what they have going on HERE. Here's a sneak peek of what goodies you can get:

• 20% off coupon for your purchase
• Up to 50% off men's sneakers
• Up to 40% off women's running shoes and apparel
• Free shipping
• Up to 50% off women's sports bras, shoes, plus apparel
• $7 off accessories and equipment

While this cutie may get a little something, this fitness mama is eyeing some treats of her own!

And my favorite part of Groupon is there is no membership fee or any other fee attached. FREE to join and easy to use! We are an active family which results in running gear for me and new shoes every so often for my growing boy. I don't plan to spend without thought as I mentioned in my post about giving up unnecessary spending, but when he does outgrow those shoes, I feel good knowing Groupon is going to save us some dough.

Do you use Groupon? What are your favorite coupons?

You can also learn more about Groupon via Facebook and Twitter.

5 Things To Give Up Forever

I cannot believe we are about to be in March. Time flies when you're crazy busy! No matter how crazy, it's an exciting time for my son as he will be making his First Reconciliation and First Communion soon. And, I love that all of these big moments are happening during this Lenten season.

I've done chocolate, fast food, and social media - well, let me be honest. I intended to "give up" these vices, but...FAIL. I recently saw a post about giving up what's REALLY interfering in your life. And, as a person who deals with daily anxiety, I love anything beneficial to my well being. This year, I am fighting harder (because I know me, it won't be easy) to GIVE UP these five things for Lent this year - and not just for the 40 days but beyond this season, too.

Comparison

As a blogger who puts herself out there, you can easily start comparing. My content won't reach anyone. My blog views are nowhere near what I want. Basically, I am not as good as the others I see. If I do this comparison thing too often, I lose the focus on why I share in the first place - which is talking ALL the parts of this mom life. Comparison won't bring me anything but more anxiety. And God knows I do not need anymore of that!

Unnecessary Spending

Budgets and finances. These things make my head spin - with worry, of course. Lately I have noticed some patterns - when the days are too much, that daily Starbucks is well deserved or that third trip to Target this week MUST happen. Deep down, I know that isn't right or fair. For the next 40 days and beyond, I plan to watch those extra Iced Vanilla Lattes and frequent runs to the Dollar Bin. Lord, hear our prayer :)

Forgetting Prayer

This time with my son has opened my eyes to how much more we need to be prayerful. More than anything, I want him to get in a routine himself of being grateful and knowing where to turn. In one week, he will confess his sins - which he says are pestering his sister or talking too much at school - but he will know God forgives. Prayer is powerful, y'all.

Worry

Story of my life. My daily battle. I turn 40 this month, and I don't see worry exiting my life completely. And, I am a mom so there's that. But, I want to be more alert to when the worry comes and how to combat it. The fitness, the writing, and the faith - they will be my main weapons when worry appears.

Not Being Able to Forgive

Since my brother died last year, I have had quite a hard time forgiving. I not 100% confident in sharing a lot just yet, but those close to me know this stage I am in. Basically, I'm mad and too stubborn to stop. Healthy, right? During this Lenten season, I hope to dig deep - as painful as it may be - to find forgiveness. God does not want me to feel this way, but it's not easy for me. I pray that tearing down this wall will leave me so much lighter.
.......................................................................

February 28th also marks the 15th anniversary of my dad passing. I don't see it as a coincidence that it falls on such a Holy week of reflection. This amazing daddy of mine taught me that worry got me nowhere and to watch my money. And, I know he'd get a kick of this blogging thing, too. He loved that I loved to write. He is my inspiration for this post. Actually, he's my inspiration for life, really. Thank you, Daddy.

What can you give up now and beyond Lent to improve YOU? I would appreciate prayers in this journey and would love to pray for you - we are in this together. Lord knows I cannot do it alone!

Have a blessed week and a blessed Lent, too!

Why This Is Us Is All Of Us

Another week. Another episode of this show. The show that pulls on every single emotion one person can have. A show where the characters are real. They are flawed. They are troubled. And they are every single one of us.

We can watch some shows become big hits. We can love Olivia Pope because her fashion is on point, and she can put on her white hat and gladiator on. But, what about the real us? The ones who grieve and who stress over jobs, kids, loss, and life in general. Not until This Is Us has a show put a mirror to our own lives and made us feel ALL THE FEELS - whether we want to or not.

When you struggle, words don't seem to come out right and if you're like me, you can feel alone because you are crazy, stressed, or panicked for no reason at all. Or maybe you are grieving the loss of a loved one, a job, a friendship, or the life you thought you were suppose to have. This Is Us says, "Hey there, buddy. I got you." And thus, you watch after the kids go to bed, and you let your friends like Jack and Rebecca or Randall (oh how I LOVE me some Randall) and William hug you so tightly with their words. You let them because this has been YOU at some point before in your life.

We yearn for parents who are no longer with us, but who taught us to turn up the music so loud and roll down those windows because life is really great if you take a minute to see that.

We are thankful for siblings - who in the midst of an absolute crisis - throw down their dreams to come and help you handle your crazy.

We hug our babies because we know what gifts they are to us - no matter how or HOW LONG it took God to place them in your arms.

We take a minute to see our spouses who know us better than anyone and love us anyways.

We, as crazy, rushed, and tired adults, have to take a breather at the end of this 60 minutes to wipe our swollen, crying eyes and think how much you felt every word. Every gesture. Every lesson.

For me, I already had an ugly cry about 8:40 this morning while hearing a song that made me miss my brother. But, I had to gather my business right after and hit a PTO meeting because LIFE KEEPS GOING. And just like I know deep down, I have my minute of hot mess, say my prayer of hope to God, and go about my day.

Then, after a chaotic evening, I get my little ones down, pour me a glass, and settle in with some tissues. I watch and within 15 minutes, I am crying. I hear my dad's laugh. I see my mom's pure, deep love for her children. I know there is a lesson coming, and I am hungry for it. Sure enough, with Randall's hands on William's face, there it is.

Wherever you are, BE WHERE YOU ARE. I think that lesson speaks volumes - ever since episode one. Last night's did that for me, so I grabbed my computer and all of this came out. Thank you to the creators for making a show that isn't just Randall or Kate or Kevin. It's all of us. THIS IS US.

Friday Finds {Vol. 33} - What I'm Loving

Well, my friends, it's been too long since I have posted some Friday Finds here on the little blog. I come across so much fun that I need to share the goodness.

Without too many words, here's what I am loving this Friday!

PLAYING

I've shared a bit about the Mother/Son Kickball game fundraiser we had this past weekend. I wasn't too sure how I'd feel about my kickball skills, but that all went to the side when the game started. The boys were PRECIOUS and pretty darn determined. But....don't underestimate the drive of a mama. I haven't laughed like that and just let loose in quite some time.

And the time with my big boy...priceless. If you need a fundraiser idea (and want to kick some kickball booty), this idea should be on your list. PS. Moms won.

MAKING

I've been promising my little one we'd make Valentine treats, and we all know the mess that can occur when it all happens. So, we settled for these simple, fun, and perfect little gifts for teachers and neighbors! Here's how you can make these Chocolate Covered Wafers.

Ingredients:

Wafer cookies
Vanilla Almond Bark
Sprinkles/Candy treats

Melt almond bark according to the package. Dip your wafers in the melted chocolate and place on waxed paper. Shake sprinkles or candy treats onto chocolate dipped section then allow to harden.

You could use any flavor wafer - try vanilla wafers, vanilla almond bark, and green sprinkles for St. Patty's day!

PLANNING

In case you missed our latest plans, you know we are in limbo with a possible move. I can't lie and say I am not scared/anxious/worried/excited, but I am so thankful I came across UpNest. Click HERE to see how they help get you moving. You can see my moving tips for the busy mama HERE.

LOVING

S'mores Girl Scout Cookies are the newest addition to their yummy cookie collection, and I have to say WELL DONE, Girl Scouts. Or, maybe I should curse you because they are NOT good for the healthy eating. And, I cannot have just one.

I'm also loving my weekend long runs. I did 7 last weekend with 9 on this weekend's agenda. MY HALF MARATHON IS IN THREE WEEKS. Pray. Hold me. Pray some more. I just keep picturing my kids at the finish line. They may be waiting a while for me, but I will be at the end somehow, some way!

We've got a little road trip this weekend to see friends. I loved this post I found while perusing my favorite blogs. How genius are the window decals? If you see a black SUV cruising through Texas with all the stickers, make sure to give us a wave, ok?
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And what about you? What are you finding FUN and FAB on this Friday?

No matter what, enjoy your weekend, my friends!

4 Tips To Make Moving Easier - For The Busy Mom

Moving happens. And sometimes it can happen without much warning. On top of the parenting and the life thing, how in the world do you plan to sell, pack up, and plan for your new adventure?

We are currently in limbo ourselves. And let me tell you how GREAT that limbo is when you have anxiety. With the possibility of a move due to the hubs' job, my head is already spinning with the what ifs and the how-in-the-heck-would-I-get-it-all-done? I do not want to get ahead of myself, but we do need to be prepared if the move happens. Since I am a list-maker, I've already come up with 4 tips I am going to follow if God has moving plans for my little fam.

REACH OUT TO YOUR FRIENDS

The day the news broke about this potential move, I went straight to a dear friend who lives in our possible new city. Not only will we need a house, but we will need good schools, too. I don't want to make any hasty decisions, so reach out to those who just KNOW. For me, it's busy moms who know the importance of all the choices you need to make.

GET ORGANIZED

Get your planners. Make your lists. Check out movers. I have already found checklists for moving via Pinterest. Also, check to see if the company requiring the move will provide packers and movers. I have had many friends who move sit back and let great companies pack up their homes and organize the boxes. While my OCD could get the best of me, I would love help in moving around a toddler.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

While we wait for news of a possible move, I've researched ways to make any move with kids an easy one! Thankfully, I've come across UpNest! UpNest takes the pain and complication out of finding a trustworthy local agent because all of their partner agents have the best records of selling and buying homes for clients in your area. As an added bonus, UpNest’s top partner agents compete for your business resulting in an overall savings on their services. After filling out a couple of simple questions, you are well on your way to finding the best local real estate agent fit for your unique situation.

I love that selling AND buying is all at my finger tips through UpNest. In my original search, I have been sent proposals for top agents in our area. From start to finish, the whole process took 10 minutes. And busy moving mamas across the land say YES, PLEASE!

TAKE A BREATH

From the moment we learned this move could happen, my busy brain began to fill with all I'd have to do. I don't do change well; I'm not sure I want to leave the life we've made here. My anxiety is at top notch speed, and with regular activities already keeping me spinning, I'm a mess. The best avenues for me are to take a minute - then assess the moment. 1. We do not know for use this move will happen. 2. If it does, we will take it one minute at a time. Just like life, really.

Have any of you moved lately? If so, I am all ears for helpful advice. For now, I will sit back and do my thing with UpNest knowing that I have great support and guidance for our future.

To get started on your moving checklist,
click HERE to see how UpNest can work for you!