Summer is flying by, and the new school year is approaching fast. We’ve already bought school supplies—I’ll organize and tuck them away today so they don’t keep reminding me that school is near.
This week I encourage even the busiest parents to set aside a solid two- or three-hour block for uninterrupted, quality time with your children. If you can take each child out separately for one-on-one time, that would be wonderful.
Have a great week! Here’s our meal and activity plan:
Monday – DIY Dinner: frozen pizza, salad, or sandwiches.
Tuesday – Turkey taco night with all the fixings; I’ll do mine in a lettuce wrap.
Wednesday – Braised chicken breasts with green beans, tomatoes, and lemon. I’ll cut up extra veggies for the little one to help tempt his “I hate veggies” radar. He does love carrots and apples.
Thursday – Almond-and-lemon-crusted fish with spinach. Rice for the boys and Earth’s Best fish sticks for the kiddo, served with an arugula salad with apple slivers and cucumber.
Friday – Chicken burgers with homemade carrot fries and apple slaw.
Saturday – Dinner out. We’re currently obsessed with Indian cuisine.
Sunday – Sunday BBQ: boneless chicken breasts marinated in olive oil and lemon, BBQ beans, slaw, and sliced watermelon.
Cleaning List
Cleaning plan for the week: this summer we’re focusing on one room each week to get it in top shape. Choose a day to assess the room, schedule the tasks, and follow through.
Monday – Deep clean the kitchen. Pick a major appliance or a zone to tackle; I recommend organizing the pantry so quick meals are easier to prepare.
Tuesday – Bathroom day. Give tubs, showers, sinks, and mirrors a thorough scrub.
Wednesday – Dusting, windows, and mirrors. Dust furniture and decor, and clean interior windows and mirrors until they shine.
Thursday – Clutter Blast – Grab a trash bag and a donation bag, play some upbeat music, and blitz the main rooms (kitchen, bathrooms, living areas). In the time it takes to listen to a few songs, toss obvious trash and collect items you no longer use into a donation bag. Your home will feel instantly lighter.
Friday – Take a Mom (or Parent) Break. Treat yourself—get your nails done or stay up a bit later to watch something light and fun after the kids are in bed.
Saturday – Linens and extra laundry. There’s nothing like fresh-smelling sheets and towels.
Sunday – Free day / Family day. Use it for a museum visit, a trip to the library, or another family outing.
P.S. Don’t forget your daily cleaning routine. You can find printable daily routines online to help stay on track.
My Favorite Things
One of my favorite tools for keeping papers organized—project notes, school paperwork, bills, and planning—is the Avery hanging file poly ring binder (1 inch). I’ve used the same set for more than five years and love how durable they are and how flat they lie for easy reading. I’m planning to add a few green and red binders to my collection.
I keep a binder for home management, one for work and blogging, one for church activities, and another for things I’m actively studying. I also keep a holiday planning binder in storage for Thanksgiving and Christmas, filled with addresses, decorating ideas, and favorite recipes. They’re commonly available online and offer great value compared with local office stores.
Have a rocking week!
Pam
linking to orgjunkie.com