What is Holistic Parenting: Nurturing the Whole Child

Parenting is a really unique journey, where every parent must choose their own path to raise healthy, happy children. Among the many approaches out there, holistic parenting stands out for its beautiful focus on nurturing the whole child–emotionally, socially, physically, and spiritually.

This unique approach is all about recognizing that a child’s development is interconnected, and by supporting every aspect of our kiddos life, we help them thrive. It’s also important to remember that loving your children doesn't mean losing yourself in the process. And to learn more about balancing love for your kids without losing yourself, check out this episode I recorded with Dr. Morgan Cutlip.

Now, let’s explore more about what holistic parenting is and how it can shape your child’s future!

What is Holistic Parenting: Nurturing the Whole Child

A holistic approach to parenting is all about nurturing the whole child, including their mind, body, and spirit. Unlike traditional methods that can focus more on academics and behaviour alone, it’s so much more about intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual growth, and natural healing. This beautiful approach fosters a deeper connection between parent and child, encouraging love, trust, and open, honest communication skills.

In today’s fast-paced world, taking the time to slow down and nurture the whole child can make all the difference. Find out more about the why below.

What Is The Importance Of Holistic Parenting

Supports Emotional Well-Being

Holistic parenting encourages open communication and emotional skills, helping children develop emotional intelligence. It can really help to strengthen parent-child relationships through better understanding and connection. And at the same time, it can help children manage emotions, build self-esteem, and form healthy relationships.

Encourages Physical Health

This nurturing approach emphasizes balanced nutrition, healthy eating, regular exercise, and good routines to support children’s well-being, including physical well-being. Parents should model healthy habits, leading by example. This will help to promote lifelong healthy habits and also reduce any future health risks.

Fosters Intellectual Growth and Curiosity

Holistic parenting encourages curiosity, creativity, and self-paced learning, focused on nurturing a love for learning, rather than just doing well at school academically. As a parent, you shouldn’t put pressure on your child to conform to academic standards, and instead embrace your child’s unique learning style. This encourages critical thinking and a lifelong passion for learning!

Cultivates Mindfulness and Self-Awareness

Teaching mindfulness is a fantastic way to help children stay present, manage stress, and make thoughtful decisions. This helps create a calm home environment as it strengthens your child’s emotional regulation. It also enhances focus, emotional control, and resilience in children during tough situations.

Builds Stronger Parent-Child Connections

By investing time in quality interactions with your little one, holistic parenting helps strengthen the relationship between parent and child. Parents can experience a much deeper, more fulfilling connection with their child. While children can feel secure, supported, and more likely to openly communicate.

How To Adopt A Holistic Parenting Approach

Prioritize Connection Over Perfection

Holistic parenting isn’t about “perfection”, it’s about building a real connection. Focus on quality time, not flawless behaviour. You can start this by putting away distractions during family time. Allow room to play, listen, and be present with your child. And remember, imperfections are only part of the journey of child development!

Encourage Emotional Expression

Support your child’s emotional growth by giving them a safe space to express their feelings openly. It builds emotional intelligence and resilience. You can try this by validating their emotions with phrases like “I see you’re upset. Want to talk about it?” Let them know that all feelings are welcome, not just the “good” ones.

Foster Independent Thinking

Encourage your little one to think critically on their own, boosting confidence and curiosity, helping them when it comes to problem-solving. Ask questions like “What do you think we should do next?” and then let them figure things out. It’s about support, not control!

Make Healthy Living Normal

Incorporate healthy habits into your entire family’s routine, make it a family affair! Eat well, stay active, and get enough rest together, and get every family member involved. Cook healthy meals together, enjoy outdoor activities, and be consistent. Health is a team effort, and doing activities that promote health together, it becomes much more motivating for everyone to get involved.

Practice Mindfulness Together

Mindfulness is an awesome way for kids to manage stress and stay focused. Practicing it together fosters calm and connection. Try simple activities like deep breathing, guided meditation, or mindful walking. Make it fun and calming for the whole family.

A nurtured child is a happy, mentally healthy child.

By adopting a holistic parenting approach, parents can give their little ones the tools they need to grow into well-rounded, confident, capable, and kind individuals. It’s a balanced and nurturing approach that benefits everyone throughout life, and especially during social interactions.

Until next time, think more and do with less. - Diane

What is a Daily Routine Chart For Kids?

Teaching your little ones about healthy habits and responsibilities can be pretty tough, right? It’s not always simple to get them started with certain tasks, and even when they do get started, sometimes they forget what the next step is. Here’s what I learned recently: forming good habits with your kids starts with a solid daily routine!

Even a simple routine chart, like the one below, can be a total game changer and actually help with child development, which I chat more about on my podcast episode “Breakthrough Strategies for Whole Child Development” with Stephanie Krauss. Just check it out and thank me later…

Basically, a daily routine chart, also known as a chore chart, can help keep your little one on track, and over time, they’ll start to take more responsibility in their day to day life. So today, I’m sharing some tips, tricks, and a daily routine chart to help your child or children stay organized and build good habits.

What is a Daily Routine Chart For Kids?

A daily routine chart for kids is EXACTLY what it sounds like. It’s a super helpful visual tool that outlines the tasks and activities that your child needs to complete throughout the day. From brushing their teeth to getting ready for bed, this chart is a clear guide that makes it easy for them to stay on track.

It works well as it breaks down the day into manageable steps for your child, making it easier for them to follow a routine. The great thing about it is that it’s totally flexible too! You can customize and change it based on your child’s age, needs, and schedule. Plus, it’s a fun way to help them take ownership of their day, build responsibility, and create habits that stick.

What Are The Benefits Of Having A Routine For Kids?

Teaches healthy habits.

Having a daily routine can help kids form healthy habits by reinforcing positive behaviors every day. Whether it’s brushing their teeth, getting ready in the morning, cooking and eating balanced meals, or getting enough sleep, routine charts remind them to practice self-care regularly. Over time, these habits become second nature.

Encourages responsibility.

When kids follow a daily routine, they learn to take ownership of their tasks. Whether it’s packing their backpack for school or putting away toys, they begin to learn that actions have consequences and that they’re responsible for their own time. 

Promotes emotional resilience. 

Emotional resilience is super important for children. With a structured routine, kids have a sense of security and predictability which helps them feel more confident when navigating changes and challenges. When kids can expect certain, unchangeable things, anxiety and tantrums diminish.

Improves time management.

As kids start following a daily routine, they get much better at managing their time. By having a set schedule for chores, their morning routine, play, and study time, they can better learn how to prioritize important tasks and avoid messing around.

Boosts confidence and self-esteem.

Kids can feel a strong sense of accomplishment when they tick off tasks when following their routine. This boosts confidence and self-esteem, helping them feel more confident and capable. Self-esteem and confidence are both crucial in a child’s life, so having something in their daily life to work on these things can set them up for success when they hit the real world.

How To Make A Daily Routine Chart For Kids

Use a visual chart with pictures.

Use a chart with pictures to help kids follow routines, especially pre-readers, and just to make it more fun and engaging. Tasks like brushing teeth and eating breakfast can be easily represented with images. Just make sure you place it somewhere visible and in reaching distance so kids can tick off or sticker completed tasks.

Create a magnetic or velcro chart.

Make a chart with magnetic or velcro pieces for a hands-on approach. Kids can move the pieces as they complete tasks. It’s interactive and rewarding which kids absolutely love. I really like just how easy this type of chart is to use, and I like that it’s also very cheap to make if you’re on a budget.

Create printable routine templates.

You can use my printable daily routine chart below to get the best out of your child's daily routine. It’s flexible, easy to update, and you can choose to print it out, decorate it, and laminate for reuse. Preparing your kids routine on a clear, engaging piece of paper can make it so much more effective.

Opt for a whiteboard or chalkboard routine chart.

Creating a reusable chart with a whiteboard or chalkboard is perfect for older kids who read, and those who need to change things on the schedule. It’s super easy to update and personalize, and allows kids to fill in daily tasks and erase them when done. 

Use a reward, sticker, or start chart.

Add a reward system to your kids daily routine by giving stickers or stars for completed tasks, which can be exchanged for rewards. Add a sticker or star for each task, and set a reward goal for the week as this can really help motivate your little ones. 

Each Sunday, you can give them their hard-earned reward, or even take them to a nice breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This can really help encourage them and keep them going.

Printable Chart For Daily Routine

A daily routine chart for kids can empower kids for success!

Now you can use a daily routine chart that will help your kids slow down and stay on task, even when they feel a bit overwhelmed. Daily routine charts are a great way to build healthy habits, promote emotional resilience, improve time management, boost confidence and self-esteem, and SO much more. And if you’re looking for the same benefits, consider your own daily routine chart, or even a solid Sunday reset routine.

Have you ever used a daily routine chart in your home? What difference do you think it made? Let me know!

The Ultimate New Year Declutter Checklist for Your Home

As the year comes to a close, anticipation fills the air. Now is the perfect time to reflect on the past and look ahead at new beginnings. The New Year offers the perfect opportunity to hit the reset button, create solid, new habits, and take a fresh approach. It’s also the ideal chance to declutter, both mentally and physically, to make space for the exciting year ahead. 

However, I totally get that decluttering can feel difficult, especially if you’re tackling it for the first time. And you’re not alone in feeling this! The idea of sorting through years of memories, accumulated items, and some junk can feel like a very daunting task–but don’t worry! 

The key to making this process manageable is to break it down into smaller, more manageable steps. And that’s exactly what a checklist can help you do! To help you get started on your decluttering journey, I’ve created a helpful New Year Decluttering Checklist that you can use as your ultimate guide!

Let’s dive in and get you on the road to decluttering your home!

The Ultimate New Year Declutter Checklist for Your Home

Before we get completely into it, let’s quickly talk about the benefits. Decluttering does so much more than just tidy up your space. In fact, it can reduce stress, improve focus, and create new room for opportunities when you need them!

A clean, organized, organized environment can seriously help clear your mind and set a positive tone for the year ahead. Though it can seem kind of overwhelming at first, having a checklist to guide you while you get rid of clutter will make the process feel so much more manageable. 

Why is Decluttering Good For You?

Reduces stress and anxiety.

Cluttered spaces can easily lead to cluttered minds. The constant visual reminders of unfinished tasks or disorganization can contribute to feelings of stress. When you declutter, you remove these triggers and create a peaceful environment that promotes calmness and relaxation. 

Increases productivity.

A tidy, well-organized space can significantly improve your productivity. When your environment is clutter and task-free, it’s much easier to stay focused and on task. Decluttering works well to remove distractions, allowing you to prioritize what truly matters.

This can help you accomplish way more in less time, whether you’re working from home or getting by your day. Starting the year with a clean slate means you’re ready to hit the ground running. 

Improves mental clarity. 

When you’re surrounded by excess belongings, it can be really hard to focus on what’s important, and your mental health can take a dive. Decluttering can clear the mental fog in your mind and give you a sense of clarity. It’s like giving your mind the space it needs to slow down, think, plan, and set intentions for the year ahead.

Boosts your mood.

The act of decluttering itself can be very empowering. It’s a productive way to take control of your environment, which in turn, can boost your self-esteem and sense of accomplishment. Plus, a clean and organized home is simply more pleasant to be in. The end result is a boosted mood!

Makes room for new opportunities.

When you get rid of old stuff, you make so much room for new experiences and possibilities. Clearing out the things that no longer serve you creates room for new interests, hobbies, and goals. So, starting the new years with less physical clutter can really help you focus on what truly matters. 

How To Declutter For The New Year

Start with one room at a time.

You can kickstart your decluttering journey by just focusing on one room at a time, or even within a small area in the room. Trying to tackle your whole home all at once can feel way too overwhelming, so room by room is best.

Start with a space you use every day, such as your kitchen or bedroom, and break the task down into manageable chunks. For example, you could start with cleaning your bedside tables, clearing out the junk drawer, or stripping the bed and washing your sheets.

Use the “one in, one out” rule.

For every item you bring into your home, make sure you get rid of one. This is super helpful for things like clothing, books, and gadgets. This rule is a super effective way to maintain balance in your home, ensuring you don’t just add to your collection without removing something first. If your things are in good condition, you can donate or sell them on.

Tackle paper clutter often.

Paper clutter is one of the most persistent and annoying types of clutter in many homes. From old bills to receipts and magazines, it definitely piles up over time. Set aside specific time to declutter each week to go through your paper mail, bills, and paperwork. Keeping your paper clutter down can ensure that it doesn’t accumulate into an overwhelming pile.

Commit to a declutter routine.

Rather than saving decluttering for once-a-year, create a regular decluttering routine. Dedicate a set amount of time each week or month to tidy up specific areas in your home. It doesn’t have to take ages, even just 15-20 minutes is great. 

You can even kick it off by going through your fridge and pantry every fortnight, restocking, and checking expiration dates. This can help to keep your home organized and prevent overwhelming clutter from building up. 

Sort items into categories.

When you declutter, it’s a good idea to have a clear system. As you go through, create four piles or categories. These categories/piles include keep, donate, recycle, and trash.

Start by asking yourself whether you use or love them. If not, decide if it can be donated or recycled. If it’s broken and doesn’t function, toss it. Sorting items into clear categories helps you make quick decisions and stop overthinking.

New Year Decluttering Checklist

Declutter this New Year with these handy tips!

Making your home clutter-free for the New Year doesn’t have to be an intimidating task. In fact, it should be exciting knowing that you can start the new year fresh!

By breaking it down into small, manageable steps and following the tips above, you can create a more organized, peaceful environment that can help you feel more focused and refreshed as you kick off the new year. 

If decluttering your home feels difficult, you’re not alone. In fact, it’s so normal to feel overwhelmed when it comes down to it. If you’re struggling with decluttering your home, check out my podcast episode “When Decluttering Feels Difficult” with Julia Ubbenga. In this episode, we explore the universal struggle with clutter and why letting go of possessions is a challenge for everyone. Julia shares her journey to minimalism, including overcoming debt and downsizing her family’s belongings by 75%. Trust me, you’ll love it!

Intentional Intimacy in Relationships: Everything You Need to Know

Photo by Katerina Holmes

Relationships, whether romantic, platonic, or familiar, can be really complex and will require ongoing effort. One of the key factors in keeping any relationship alive and thriving is intimacy. Sure, it doesn’t need to be just physical. It can be emotional and mental as well.

While spontaneity can be fun and exciting, being intentional about intimacy can help to ensure that the bond with your loved one stays active and deepened over time. In this post, I’m going to be focused on intentional intimacy, what it is, why it matters, and how it can strengthen any relationship.

By being purposeful in how we nurture our connections with others, we can work to create beautiful, lasting, and meaningful bonds that thrive. (If you’re interested in hearing more, check out my conversation with relationship coach, Brianna Carey on the podcast). And if you’re interested in reading - continue to scroll down for more!

Intentional Intimacy in Relationships: Everything You Need to Know

In this post, we’re going to chat about what intentional intimacy is, why it’s essential for maintaining strong, healthy relationships, and practical ways to create it in your own life. Whether you’re looking to deepen a romantic connection, strengthen a beautiful friendship, or improve your family life, the insights shared in this blog will help you approach intimacy with care, purpose, and understanding.

By the end, you’ll have a much better idea of how being intentional about emotional, mental, and even physical closeness can transform your relationships. They’ll improve greatly and thrive through the test of time. 

This guide is designed to be both actionable and informative to help you refresh your bonds with the people who matter to you most!

What It Means To Be Intentionally Intimate:

Being intentionally intimate means making a conscious and deliberate effort to deepen the connection you share with a special someone. It goes way beyond the passive moments of closeness and spontaneity and focuses on actively fostering emotional, mental, and even physical bonds.

This intentional outlook is all about being present, vulnerable, and engaged in ways that nurture trust, understanding, and affection in your relationships. When being used, intentional intimacy looks a lot like having meaningful conversations, showing consistent appreciation, or working to create moments of connection.

It’s about prioritizing the relationship and actively choosing to invest time, energy, and care in it. Rather than waiting for intimacy to “just happen”, intentional intimacy is all about creating the conditions that allow your relationship to flourish. 

Is Intimacy Important In A Relationship?

Yes! Intimacy is a really important component of any relationship. It goes far beyond just physical closeness and touches on emotional and spiritual connections. In a romantic relationship, intimacy can make a huge difference in how partners experience and relate to each other.

How To Be Intentional With Your Intimacy

Create unstructured and uninterrupted time.

Set aside plenty of time with no distractions like your phones, work, or anything else to simply be present with each other. Just slow down and allow plenty of space for connection here. This allows for connection and deeper bonding.

Ask curious questions.

Engage in open-ended conversations to learn more about each other’s thoughts, feelings, and dreams. Curiosity can really help to deepen your emotional connection and invite intimacy into any relationship.

Show appreciation often.

Express gratitude for both the small and large things your significant other does. Appreciation fosters a sense of being valued, helping to strengthen your emotional bond.

Be vulnerable with each other.

Share your true feelings, insecurities, and desires with each other. Vulnerability really helps build trust and can also support connection on a deeper level.

Be mindful of your partner's needs.

Pay attention to your partner’s emotional and physical needs, and offer them support in thoughtful ways. Being attentive and understanding of their needs and mental health can help your partner feel cared for and emotionally connected to you.

Intentional intimacy is very important in any relationship.

These small, intentional actions can help so much to strengthen intimacy in your relationship. After all, being intentional with intimacy isn’t about big, grand gestures, but consistent, meaningful actions. 

By doing the things above, you can really deepen your bond. Keep these tips in mind and watch your connection with your loved one grow!

Until next time, think more and do with less. -Diane 

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Five Things I No Longer Care About (As a Minimalist)

Five Things I No Longer Care About (As a Minimalist)

...even small shifts towards minimalism are liberating.

It has been liberating to stop caring about the following things:

(Not to say it’s perfect but these are things that I actively don’t care about/do anymore because of pursuing a more intentional lifestyle).

1.) Responding right away to calls/emails/texts.

We need to stop expecting immediacy from one another. Hannah Brencher and I spoke about this in the latest episode of the podcast. Not that long ago, a person had to catch your call from a landline or else you’d have to wait and try again. Tip: I’ve set up an email notification that alerts people I’ll only be checking my emails a certain amount of times this week. Takes the pressure off!

2.) Mass-produced artwork.

I love for my home decor/artwork to tell a story. Gone are the days of purchasing mass-produced art from Target. I’d prefer bare walls to ones I feel required to fill with art I just ‘kind of’ love.

3.) Getting rid of something nice that I’ve frivolously spent money on.

This used to gut me but then I realized - the money has already spent. It’s not coming back and yet, I’m hanging onto something that has only become a constant reminder of a frivolous purchase. I prefer to ask friends’ if anyone could use said item; however, if not, it’s donated without attachment!

4.) Celebrity gossip.

I used to DEVOUR celeb gossip (and while some stories still remain noteworthy), I no longer fill my feed with random Bachelor contestants + latest celebrities that take up unnecessary space in my brain. I’d rather use social media to catch up with people that I’m in a relationship with or benefit my lifestyle goals. 

5.) Consistent story posting on social media.

I used to feel tied to posting every moment on Instagram stories. Personally, this removed me from the moment. Nowadays, I’ll snap a photo (or sometimes I won’t) and if I really want to share, I’ll do it later in the day (or coming days!)

How has pursuing an intentional, minimalist life changed you?

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10 Practical Ways to Reduce Your Grocery Bill

Buying groceries each month can really take a big bite out of your budget. And let’s face it, it’s not like you can just skip it–groceries are a necessity. But here’s the thing: the cost of food items has absolutely skyrocketed in the last few years. You’re probably noticing it too buying the same stuff you’ve always bought, but your wallet feels a lot lighter these days. Get this: grocery prices have gone up by a staggering 25.8% since November 2020!

But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! If you’re looking for ways to bring that grocery bill back down without sacrificing the things you need, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m sharing super practical tips to help you save money, stress less about your budget, and dare I say it maybe even enjoy your next grocery trip!

10 Practical Ways to Reduce Your Grocery Bill

Ready to slash your grocery bill without sacrificing the nutrients you need to feel your best? I’ve got you covered with simple, effective tips to help you save while still enjoying healthy, delicious meals. Just remember, cutting down your grocery costs isn’t a sprint it’s a marathon. Take it one step at a time, stay patient, and trust that with consistency, you’ll reach your budget goals!

How Much Do People Spend on Groceries?

How much should you really be spending on groceries? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer it all depends on your income and how you budget. A good rule of thumb is to keep your housing, food, and other essentials within 50% of your monthly after-tax income. But let’s be real with food prices on the rise, sticking to that breakdown can feel like a challenge.

On average, a family of four in the U.S. spends around $8,000 a year or roughly $670 a month on groceries. The good news? With these simple tips, you can bring that number down!

Why are Groceries So Expensive?

A lot goes into the price of groceries and surprisingly, it’s not always about the food itself! The surge in grocery prices really kicked off with the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns and health concerns caused a massive spike in demand for groceries, and the basic rule of supply and demand took over.

Then, in 2022, a bird flu outbreak disrupted the supply of poultry and eggs, causing prices especially for eggs to soar. Even events happening outside our borders play a role. For example, the war in Ukraine has impacted global exports of wheat and corn, further driving up costs. It’s a complex web, but understanding these factors can help you make smarter choices!

How to Reduce Your Grocery Bill

1. Make a meal plan. 

Planning your family’s meals for the week is a gamechanger when it comes to cutting down your grocery bill. Plus, it saves you from the nightly stress of answering the dreaded, “What’s for dinner?”

When you create a meal plan, you’re shopping with intention buying only the ingredients you actually need. That means less food waste and more savings. Without a plan, it’s easy to overbuy as you wander the aisles, picking up items you think you might use but end up tossing when they go bad. With a solid plan, you can say goodbye to impulse buys and hello to a more efficient (and affordable) grocery haul!

2. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods.

Noticed how fresh produce prices have climbed? Don’t worry sticking to your budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy. The trick is swapping pricier vegetables for more affordable, nutrient-packed alternatives.

For instance, you could swap lettuce for parsley or trade zucchini for carrots. Adding budget-friendly staples like chickpeas, lentils, and other dried legumes can also be a delicious way to pack in nutrients without overspending. Don’t forget to stock up on nutrient-dense options like seeds and potatoes they’re affordable, versatile, and perfect for rounding out your meals!

3. Grocery shop once a week. 

I get it grocery shopping can feel like a huge time suck, especially when you’re juggling a million things with the kids. But here’s the deal: shopping once a week can actually save you money compared to going every other week. Why? It helps you stick to your shopping list and cuts down on fresh food going bad before you can use it.

Not a fan of weekend crowds? Try hitting the store after work midweek it’s usually quieter and way more convenient. With a little planning, grocery shopping can be quicker, easier, and lighter on your wallet!

4. Consider buying generic products.

Did you know that swapping brand-name products for generic ones could slash your grocery bill by up to 40%? You’re essentially getting the same product just without the flashy marketing and saving a ton in the process. Next time you’re shopping, try switching some of your go-to items, like cereal, butter, condiments, and yogurt, to the store brand. You might be surprised at how much you can save without sacrificing quality! 

5. Avoid mid-week purchases.

We’ve all been there you realize you forgot to grab milk or a loaf of bread, so you swing by the store for a quick trip. Simple, right? Not so fast! Grocery stores are designed with sneaky strategies to lure you into buying more than you planned, with tempting sales and promotions on things you don’t really need.

To avoid these extra costs, try sticking to your dedicated shopping day. But if you have to make a quick stop, channel your inner focus. Head straight to the section where your item is with laser-sharp determination, grab what you need, and get out. You’ve got this! 

6. Gamify your grocery trip. 

Grocery shopping can actually be fun when you turn it into a challenge! Your mission? Outsmart “the man” and prove that their sneaky marketing tactics won’t get you to spend a penny over your budget. Treat it like a game stay laser-focused on your list, resist those tempting extras, and savor the satisfaction of winning when you stick to your plan. Budget victory never felt so good!

7. Shop seasonal produce. 

Choosing locally grown, seasonal fruits and vegetables is a smart way to save money on groceries. In-season produce tends to be more affordable because it’s plentiful and doesn’t come with the added cost of importing. When planning your meals for the week, check out what’s in season and build your dishes and grocery list around those ingredients. Not only will you save, but your meals will also be fresher and more flavorful! 

8. Order groceries online. 

Surprisingly, ordering your groceries online can be a great way to save money. It keeps you focused on your list and eliminates the temptation of those colorful, eye-catching products lining the store shelves. With just a few clicks, you can get exactly what you need and choose between convenient home delivery or curbside pickup. Simple, stress-free, and budget-friendly!

9. Buy nutritious foods in bulk. 

Buying in bulk can be a smart way to cut costs but it’s not always a guaranteed money-saver. While the per-item price might look tempting, it's important to be mindful of what you’re stocking up on. Focus on buying nutritious, long-lasting foods that can sit on your shelves for a year or two without spoiling. On your next Costco run, consider stocking up on pantry staples like seeds, nuts, dried legumes, and canned vegetables. That way, when fresh produce prices spike, you’ll already have a nutrient-packed backup plan waiting in your pantry.

10. Don’t shop while hungry. 

One of the easiest ways to derail your grocery budget is shopping on an empty stomach. Before heading out for your weekly grocery trip, make sure you’ve had a satisfying meal or snack. When you’re hungry, everything on the shelves looks tempting, making it much harder to stick to your list. This can lead to overspending and buying items you don’t really need. Stay full, stay focused, and stick to your budget!

Take control of your food budget and fight rising grocery prices!

Eating healthy on a budget is no small feat, especially with rising grocery prices. But with the right strategies, resources, and a little determination, you can cut down your grocery bill while still providing the essential nutrients you and your family need to stay strong, healthy, and thriving.

If you’re interested in learning more about ways to save money at the grocery store, check out one of the latest episodes of Minimalist Moms, “Strategies for Reducing your Grocery Bill,” with Kimberley Gillan. I think you’ll find it super helpful and practical!

Until next time, think more and do with less. -Diane 

The Ultimate Sunday Reset Routine

I feel like Sundays are confusing for a lot of people. Especially moms. It’s like that sweet spot right between a weekend of quality family time and the reality check of the work and school week ahead. It’s super easy to just want to spend the day relaxing but let’s be real – if you don't take a little time out to reset, Monday will hit you like a freight train. And that’s where a Sunday reset routine kicks in.

Lately, I’ve been seeing this concept pop up on social media, but it’s something I’ve done for a while now. And let me tell you, it makes the BIGGEST difference. It’s a total gamechanger. The idea is pretty simple: slow down and take some time out on a Sunday to reset and make the week ahead peaceful and easy to transition to for both us and our kids.

I get it, Sunday can feel like the last stretch of the weekend. You might just want to throw on your pjs and watch a movie, and you still can of course. But trust me, taking even an hour or two to reset will make a big difference. This is why, today, I’m sharing a Sunday Reset routine that you can use as a guide to get yourself organized, calm, and ready to tackle the week ahead with a fresh perspective. Whether you have 30 minutes or a few hours to spare, this simple routine will set you up for success!

The Ultimate Sunday Reset Routine

In this post, we’re going to talk all about the Sunday reset – what it is, why it’s so helpful, and how you can start your own Sunday reset routine to set yourself and your little ones up for a smoother, more organized week. I know it can be hard to get motivated, especially on Sundays, when you’re dreading a busy week ahead. But trust me, taking just a little time to reset works wonders.

I’m going to break it all down in simple steps you can follow from planning out your week and meal prepping, to giving yourself some well-deserved self-care time. You’ll walk away from this post with a clear understanding of how to set the tone for the week and feel more in control of your time and energy.

Whether you’re a busy momma, a working professional, or someone looking to get more out of Sundays, you can embrace the Sunday reset with this guide. You’ll head to Monday feeling calm, prepared, and ready to take on whatever comes your way!

What is a Sunday Reset?

A Sunday reset is a simple yet effective practice where you simply take some time on Sunday to prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for the week ahead. It’s about knowing when to hit pause, organizing your space, planning your schedule, and taking care of yourself so that you can start the week feeling more focused, less stressed, and ready to take on whatever comes.

Whether you’re meal prepping, tidying your home, or setting goals for the week, the idea is to create a sense of calm and control before the Monday hustle hits. The benefits are huge and can really reduce the overwhelming “Sunday Scaries” feeling. Plus, it’s a chance to prioritize YOU!

How To Do A Sunday Reset Routine

Step 1: Declutter your space.

First of all, get started by decluttering your space. Decluttering your environment can have a powerful impact on your mental clarity. A messy space can cause a messy mindset, making it really hard to focus and feel productive. Starting with a clean slate on Sunday is an excellent way to set a positive tone for the week. If you’re having trouble, set a time for 10-20 minutes and declutter in focused bursts.

Step 2: Plan for the week ahead.

Planning your week in advance helps reduce stress and ensures you’re organized for what’s coming up. Sunday is the perfect time to review your schedule, set goals, and prepare for any upcoming tasks or events. Write down key tasks and goals, prioritize your to-dos, and review any appointments or commitments coming up during the week.

Step 3: Take care of your mental health.

Sunday is a great day to recharge both emotionally or mentally. Taking a break from the busy demands of the week helps you clear your head and refocus. Whether through relaxation, mindfulness, or self-care, focusing on your mental health will help you feel balanced and refreshed. You can do this by practicing mindfulness, reflecting on your week, or simply doing something that calms you. 

Step 4: Move your body.

Movement is essential for both physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise improves your mood, boosts energy, and helps you manage stress. Sunday is a great opportunity to get moving in a way that feels good to you. Go for a 15-20 minute walk, try a gentle workout, and just make moving your body fun. This can even include dancing with your little ones in the lounge!

If you’re a mom of little ones and are struggling with exercise, listen to this podcast episode with Amy Keifer for more tips! 

Step 5: Nourish your body.

Last, but certainly not least, nourish your body. Taking care of your body with healthy and delicious food is the key to maintaining energy and focus throughout the week. Sunday is the perfect time to fuel your body with nutritious meals and snacks, and prep for busy days ahead. Speaking of meal prep, you’ll love this meal prep soup recipe when it comes to your Sunday meal prep!

The Ultimate Sunday Reset Checklist

Take back your week with this Sunday reset routine!   

With these helpful steps, you’ll have everything you need to reset your mind, body, and space on Sunday, making the week easier for you and your little ones. By incorporating these simple practices, you can reduce stress, boost productivity, and approach the week ahead with a sense of calm.

If you’re interested in learning more about slowing down, check out one of the latest episodes of Minimalist Moms, “Slow Down for Better, Smarter, Happier Living” with Stephanie O’Dea. I think it’ll really resonate with you!

Until next time, think more and do with less. - Diane

Slow Down

I set out on a walk with my children, as I figured it’d be a great way for all of us to release some energy. My thinking was that they’d get tired out before nap time, and I’d have a bit of a workout. Win-win.

Less than eight hundred feet from our back door, we already stopped to check out the wildflowers. “Come on! We’re going for a walk,” I said. My daughter picked up the pace only to stop again after a couple more minutes of walking. “We don’t have time for that! Mommy said this was time to walk, let’s go.” I picked up my pace a bit in hopes that she’d follow along, and that’s when it hit me.

Slow Down

You’ve done it again, I thought. In an effort to push my agenda, I failed to accept the moment for what it was. What was the hurry? We had nowhere to be and really no schedule. To quote Daniel Tiger, “Sometimes it’s good to go slow.” Getting rid of clutter isn’t just a tangible endeavor, but an emotional one as well. Clutter in our minds keeps us from slow living. To slow down is to live intentionally and consciously, to prioritize self-care. While I do believe that there’s a time for a more fast-paced approach, more often than not, our lives could use a bit of slowing down.

Take a step back and watch your child eat their pancakes. Look on as they build a castle of blocks, or as they flip through books. Remove distractions while you sit with your morning cup of coffee. Put your phone away while your partner shares their day with you. Invest in those around you by slowing down and giving conscious attention.

Don’t Rush The Moment

I’ve found that I’m a much more relaxed individual when I’m not rushing from moment to moment. When I say “no” more often. When I keep my mind and schedule from becoming overcrowded and overburdened. I need to let my daughter slow down and enjoy the wildflowers, the lawn gnome, the giant rock that she strategically climbs and jumps off.

When we embrace a minimalist approach to life, we give priority to what’s important to us—our family, friends, possessions, and hobbies. To slow down is to remain present. And friends, what else is better than living in the present moment?

Slow down, you won’t regret it.

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On this week’s episode of the podcast, I interviewed author, Stephanie O’Dea about how to savor a slow(er) paced life. From her viral success as a crockpot blogger to redefining the American Dream, Stephanie introduced her SLOW (Simply Look Only Within) approach to the audience. We continued to explore the importance of JOMO (Joy of Missing Out), stress management, and achieving a balanced lifestyle through mindfulness and practical steps.

So my question to you this week is: In what areas do you struggle to slow down? Do you rush through moments with your children? Take the time to remove distractions and notice. Make this a regular practice.

Prep Soup Recipes for a Restful Sunday Afternoon

On the latest episode of the podcast, my guest, Kathi Lipp shares about her new book Sabbath Soup. Her thought is that by prepping a soup for Sunday, readers (or my listeners) can enjoy a full day each week of real rest and refreshment.  

Do something good for your soul and experience the peace that comes with a full day dedicated to spending time with family and friends. Savor your Sabbath as you proudly proclaim, “Soup’s on!”

Psst - check out her book here!

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Prep Soup Recipes

Here is one of my favorite, go-to chili recipes for a slow Sunday afternoon:

Smokey Sweet Potato & Turkey Chili

(adapted from Simple Delights)
1 large onion, chopped
1 lb ground turkey breast
1 TBSP salt
2 TBSP chili powder
2 TBSP cumin powder
1 1/2 TBSP brown sugar
2 sweet potatoes, 1/2 inch cubes
1 can black beans
1 large can diced tomatoes
2 cans chicken broth

*You can also add green peppers and diced chili peppers.

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onions for about 5 minutes. Now, add the ground turkey, salt, cumin, chili powder and brown sugar. Cook until the turkey is cooked through…use a large spoon to crumble the turkey as it cooks. Add the sweet potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes. Now, add the black beans, tomatoes, and chicken stock. Mix everything together- bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 40 minutes- until the sweet potato is cooked through. Top with basil, Parmesan, or whatever you'd prefer on your chili.

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I really enjoyed this dish. The flavors blended well together: a mix of sweetness from the brown sugar and spiciness from the cumin and chili powder.

The chili takes about ten-fifteen minutes to prepare and then about forty minutes to fully cook. I was pleased as the timer went off just as Marty walked through the door. Talk about a great way to warm up after a long day outside.

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