"Refresh" Update

First up, the Home Management Binder. This is all I have put together so far, literally the front cover, LOL. When I first heard about these 10 years ago, it was recommended that you use a 3" binder. I tried that for a while, but honestly, it was just over kill. Some people keep all their phone numbers, addresses, medical info, gifts lists, etc. in this binder. I don't. I keep my addresses in an index card box next to my envelopes and stationary. I keep my phone numbers on a list taped to the wall above the phone. I have a file for medical stuff. I keep gift lists in my Christmas binder. So I don't need a 3' binder. It's just too big for what I need. This is a heavy duty 1.5 inch binder. I stuck a picture of my fcshsia plant that Darlin gave me in the front pocket. 

 Copies of the following papers will go in the binder...
I created a one-week menu where I planned out breakfast, lunch and supper based on what we typically would be doing that day. (Easy meals on busy days when we are out, etc) I plan on making at least one or two more as things start to settle into a rhythm, but for now for the sake of sanity I am just starting with one. There are variations to this menu too. For example, the day we have soup, it could be any one of several kinds of soup. Cream based, chowder, chicken, beef, ham, etc. And mac and cheese could be different kinds of cheese sauce and pasta. Peanut butter sandwiches could include honey, Nutella, bananas, jam, etc. Different toppings and crusts on homemade pizza night. We son't mind eating similar things every week. And as I said, when things level out, I will add more menus. This is just to make life easier while I'm trying to get new systems in place. I have this tacked to the inside of my cupboard door for easy reference, and copies will be kept in my binder.

 To go with the menu, I went ahead and made a basic grocery list that includes staples and all of the ingredients for all the meals, sides and snacks on the menu. Before I go grocery shopping, I take inventory of the fridge, cupboards and freezers, then highlight what I need to buy. So easy. I typed it out in category order, and according to the grocery store layout, so I can start at one end of the store and make my way to the other end without back tracking.

 The post-it note is for items I want to add to my list. I will add them, then put copies into my binder.
Having a meal plan and the items to execute it seems to be half the battle. If you are currently overwhelmed, I would suggest starting with this. Then you don't have to think up something to make for every meal of every day, and not have the ingredients you need all the while trying to care for little ones and declutter the house, catch up on laundry, cleaning, etc. Trust me, this is a game changer.

Another thing I have implemented right away is a 3:30 pick up. I set the alarm on my phone to go off every day at 3:30 to remind me to stop my current project and have the kids help pick up the house. This is something my mother has been doing for years, as long as I can remember. I don't know why it's taking me so long to do it too, because it really helps. Usually by mid-afternoon, there is an explosion of toys throughout the house. (another system I'm currently tweaking). I used to leave the picking up for after supper. But by then, the mess so overwhelming and it's getting late. Then once the kids go to bed, I'm tired too, and I don't want to clean up the whole house. This way, it isn't so bad at nigh, and the boys are learning they need to clean up after themselves. I highly recommend this too.

 That is all the update for today. We have been gone every day for the last 3 days, so things haven't been going as well as I want, but I can still relax inside because I know there is food in the house, a plan to tell me what cook and when, and there is at least a goal to shoot for now.

Another glorious sunrise this morning. Pictures don't do it justice. It is really amazing in real life!

I hope you have a blessed day! I hope this is helpful. 'Till next time!