Tips From Tonia – August 2023

I cannot believe we are already into August tips from Tonia! If you are like me, I do not know where this summer has gone. What has everybody been up to this summer? I know over here we have had some great trips, wonderful family time, and some small projects at home, but now I am in back-to-school mode. My twin girls, Peyton and Sydney will be seniors this year, so I know that back to school has a whole different meaning for me this year. We have had senior yearbook photos, tennis tryouts, and now back to school forms are finally due. Lucas will be in the second grade, and he will be in three different sports, so our lives are about to be busy!

1. Two weeks before school starts get your children into the routine of going to bed early and getting into the swing of things.
2. Buy school supplies early & beat the rush.
3. Purge all drawers and closets to get rid of any unwanted items and/or clothing that is too small. I am sure over the summer your children have had major growth spurts like mine.
4. Get your calendar organized. Use an app such as Cozi, or a good old paper calendar will work as well. Input all sporting events and practices and important dates so you do not miss any.
5. Organize your pantry and to-go items for school lunches & snacks!
6. Create a morning checklist for ease of morning routines.
7. Remember, car line and bus routes are very busy in the first couple of weeks of school so allow yourself an extra 15 to 20 minutes for these routes.
8. Getting organized with your menu planning is always a must. Use our menu planner to help you get organized for those nightly dinners. If you are not sure what to make, you could also sign up for a meal delivery service. We have been using Purple Carrot recently and that has been a huge help. We are not all plant-based, so we just add protein to the meals! I find it very difficult to choose what to make every night considering I have one child that is gluten-free and dairy free. This has been a great option for us.
9. Last, but certainly not least, create a quiet study area for your children. It is a good idea to stock up on homework supplies in this area. I like to shop at Costco for pencils, erasers, and scissors. Buying in bulk will help throughout the year.

The most important tip: live in the moment!! Enjoy these first days of school, as they come to an end so quickly. I am cherishing these “lasts” with my twins’ as they start their senior year. It is bittersweet.

Enjoy these last couple of weeks of summer!!!
– Tonia