5 Tips to kick start your new year
Ever feel like you are stuck in a rut; whether it be a relationship, work, blogging, etc? Do you ever feel like a hamster continuously spinning on a wheel which never actually moves you forward? Do you ever feel burnt out? I am here to say I totally feel you! In fact, I definitely have my moments where I feel like I am not going anywhere. Is all this hard work a waste of time? Let’s team up and hit that reset button together and get a productive start to the new year like a boss, shall we? I have compiled my list of to-do’s to start this year off right!
1. Plan Ahead
I don’t know how many times I have to hear this from my husband. I am the queen of last minute! I am spontaneous, and then make plans without really thinking about all the moving parts that have to go with said plans. Is this a Gemini trait? Can I blame it on that? I have vowed to myself and my husband to plan ahead when there are activities or things I want to do. The more you plan ahead, the easier it will be on everyone including yourself. Going on a trip? Plan out your itinerary ahead of time if you want to jam pack it with activities. (I never plan it out and go with the flow) I don’t see anything wrong with that way of thinking either, however, I do feel it’s necessary when you bite off more than you can chew and take on too many things to do without thinking about timing. I am hoping this new way of thinking will alleviate some stress and make things run more smoothly here.
2. Get Organized
As I write this, I wonder if it should be my husband’s post to write. He literally says this to my daily. Neil likes things organized, while, I, uuuhhhh, I like them organized to a certain extent. I will take the time to organize and put papers in their proper files, organize my closet, my desk, etc. However, two weeks later, it looks like a mess again. Maybe it’s the Mom in me that has learned to cope and thrive in constant chaos and messes. You can’t get your undies in a bunch over every toy thrown around the house. I do admit, I need to find a happy medium with this and struggle to really stay organized. I have done a few things to help me improve on this.
Get a magnetic white board calendar for the refrigerator. I write down all of the kids practices, games, Neil’s call schedule etc. on this board. It also has an area to write down lists of grocery items we need to get. This has helped me tremendously in this aspect of our lives. I also use my new planner that I received in my Winter Box of Style from Rachel Zoe. Thanks Rachel! I am super forgetful and this is helping me keep it together for certain dates and things going on with work. It’s also super cute to look at.
Check out the Wunderlist app. You can store daily to-do lists and set reminders for important things. I also love the awesome prioritization list you can have for longer term plans. There’s that plan word again.
3. Create Deadlines For Yourself And Stick To Them
This is something I am REALLY trying to improve on. Sometimes, I feel like I have too many projects or things going on in my life and I feel like I am drowning or at least doggy paddling a lot. Something always gets shoved to the back of the list and then somehow forgotten. For me, I am trying to set weekly deadlines for blog posts. To continue to grow this blog and my brand, I need to write more posts. At times, I feel like this is just not possible. I don’t want to slap some words and pictures into a post and say here ya go. That’s the perfectionist in me(we will get to that in a sec). This is where planning and creating deadlines go hand in hand. I, now ahead of time, think of the topics I want to write about, jot them down on a list and have dedicated to writing two posts per week. After I begin to do this consistently, I will bump it up to three and so on. The goal is to bring you posts every day, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves here, right? Baby steps.
4. You Don’t Have To Be Perfect
As mothers, we are constantly trying to fill the roll of Super Woman. It’s a hard job. Don’t judge how you are as a mother by comparing yourself to others. For example, over Christmas, the Elf on a Shelf returned. Woohoo, insert sarcasm. I barely remembered to move that thing every night, sometimes leaving it up to my 13 year old daughter. I don’t have time to hang him from the chandelier, wrap him in toilet paper, and write some cute note in chocolate syrup. In my house, the alarm goes off at 6:45 am and I immediately pop up, remember the gosh-darn elf and run downstairs before the kids see me. This year I stuck him on top of the curtains above the couch. The kids got a real kick out of that because it was so high. Later that day, the boys were wrestling and jumping off the couch when “Jack” fell and landed halfway on the couch hanging on for dear life with one felt leg. His hat, that had broken off a previous year fell off and you could see the clear packaging tape stuck to his head (yeah, I never glued it back because I am lazy). All the kids cared about was why he had tape on his head. I couldn’t stop laughing and of course no one is allowed to touch the thing. So he just laid there with this tape until they all went upstairs and I could fix it.
The moral of the story is that it is okay to not be perfect. No one is perfect and while some moms are awesome and do all those fun elf jokes, I am sure there is something I do perfectly that they don’t. That’s totally fine. I wish I was better at those sort of things but I am not going to beat myself up over it. So let your kids pick out their own clothes, let them get dirty, let them jump on the couch. Don’t freak out by toys on the floor because someday, there won’t be any legos on the floor to step on and you will miss it. This also doesn’t just apply to the moms out there. While being a perfectionist can be very useful especially in business, don’t get so wrapped uo in it that it takes the fun out of everything.
5. Â Take Time For Yourself
Over the last year, I started reading inspirational quotes and stories. Every Friday, with coffee in hand, I sit down and read quote after quote while my son, Nicky, watches Sesame Street. Not only does this help empower and motivate me to start my day off right, it has helped encourage me on this blogging journey as well as in other areas of my life. Feeling frustrated about work, there’s a quote out there for it. Sad about a lost relationship? Again, those special quotes exist. Try it out and see how you feel.
Maybe quotes aren’t your cup of tea. Take a walk, do some yoga, or get active. Find that special something that helps calm you and relieve some stress. It will do wonders.
After my surgeries, and once I was feeling better, Neil and I vowed to take some more time for ourselves together too. For years, we would go so long between a date night or spending time together without the kids. Now that the kids are getting older, it’s easier for us not to feel guilty for leaving them here or there for a quick dinner or movie date. I can tell you it has helped our relationship enormously to have that special time away to reconnect and it’s good for the kids to have a happy Mommy and Daddy too.
“With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” -Eleanor Roosevelt
Outfit Details:
Poncho  |  Ulla Johnson(older)  (similar here) or (here)
Jeans  |  J Brand
Boots  |  Tory Burch  (similar)
Hat  |  Brixton
About The Author
April
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I LOVE when all the flowers are blooming in our yard but man, my allergies are HORRENDOUS 🤣 I went outside to garden and came right back in 10 minutes later.
Woke up with an insane migraine….but at least my closet it clean! 🤣 #blueandwhiteforever #springcleaning
Give me all the #gingham
SAVE AND SHARE THIS RECIPE! These#breakfast galettes are the perfect addition to a brunch or even for a fun breakfast in bed 🙌🏻 It’s a meal all in one and super delicious!
•One package bacon (cooked and chopped)
•Puff pastry cut into 8 equal squares
•Shredded gruyere cheese
•9 eggs (one used for egg wash)
•Chopped chives
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Cut puff pastry into 8 squares and scoop your cooked bacon into the center. Position the bacon into a donut shape leaving the center empty. Sprinkled gruyere cheese on top and then fold over all 4 sides, pressing firmed so it stays in place. Place on a non stick baking pan and brush egg wash on all sides of the puff pastry. Sprinkle fresh chives on top and bake for 20 minutes. Enjoy! #brunchrecipe #recipereel #puffpastry #breakfast
SAVE AND SHARE THIS RECIPE! These#breakfast galettes are the perfect addition to a brunch or even for a fun breakfast in bed 🙌🏻 It’s a meal all in one and super delicious!
•One package bacon (cooked and chopped)
•Puff pastry cut into 8 equal squares
•Shredded gruyere cheese
•9 eggs (one used for egg wash)
•Chopped chives
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Cut puff pastry into 8 squares and scoop your cooked bacon into the center. Position the bacon into a donut shape leaving the center empty. Sprinkled gruyere cheese on top and then fold over all 4 sides, pressing firmed so it stays in place. Place on a non stick baking pan and brush egg wash on all sides of the puff pastry. Sprinkle fresh chives on top and bake for 20 minutes. Enjoy! #brunchrecipe #recipereel #puffpastry #breakfast
Did ya read the newest post on our latest #DIY over on Apriljwagner.com (link in profile) Get in depth details on our recent entertainment space including step-by-step directions, photos, before and afters AND I linked ALL the items as well. #diyproject #diyhomeprojects
SAVE AND SHARE THIS RECIPE! This is an insanely easy way to make Raspberry Lemon Tarts with minimal steps and ingredients! As much as I love making lemon curd from scratch, sometimes, it’s just nice to cut some corners!
•6-7 oz of Lemon Curd (I used @mackays) you will have left over. I showed the second half of my tarts being made.
•2 packs of puff pastry
•8 oz of whipped cream (I made my own with heavy whipping cream and a little vanilla extract and sugar)
•20 raspberries
Preheat the oven to 400°. Using a cookie cutter or top of a cup (approx 2 inches), cut circles out of the puff pastry. Place the circles of puff pastry into each mini muffin pan cup. Don’t forget to spray the mini muffin pan with nonstick spray like avocado oil! Place on the oven for 10-12 minutes. In a bowl, add the lemon curd and whipped cream and mix well. Stick in the refrigerator until the puff pastry is baked and cooled down. Add the lemon mixture to the puff pastry cups (tip: take a spoon after the puff pastry comes out of the oven and push the centers in). Add raspberry to the top and a little powdered sugar and there ya have it! Super easy, mini bite size desserts that are perfect for that Mothers Day brunch coming up! #puffpastry #minidesserts #easyrecipes
It’s that time of year where I can wear white pants again 🙌🏻🤣 Yay for Spring….
Always sad leaving our favorite camping spot…we’ve been bringing the kids here 2-3 times a year for the last 5 years and it never gets old. Sure, we could bring them to SoCal, where it’s warmer and packed with a crap ton of people. However, we much prefer the cooler weather (helps with my POTS), rocky cliffs, less people and you travel through the redwood forest (which looks like a storybook). We love it up here and fantasize about moving somewhere like this once Nicky graduates. See you in June Westport….
In my happy place for a long weekend….Comment COAST and I’ll send the link for this cute sweater (comes in East Coast too)!
https://liketk.it/59GmV #ltktravel #ltkstyletip #ltksalealert #coastalstyle #california #oceanview #beachday
Ahhh! Neil and I finished our biggest #diyproject yet! 💪🏻I’m so lucky I’m married to someone who goes along with all my ideas with little complaint 🤣 Our #diy entertainment space features an electric fireplace, frame tv and the biggest showstoppers of all…the #whiteoak mantel and floating shelves from Dakota Timber Co! I’m so in LOVE with how it turned out! #dakotatimbercompany sources their wood from retired buildings, urban tree removals as well as other sustainable sources. The quality is INSANE! Each piece meticulously crafted and ready for install. The mantel and shelves come with detailed instructions, steel brackets that hold 150 lbs or more and six 2.5 inch screws. Did I mention it’s #americanmade 🙌🏻 Right now, they have a BOGO sale on floating shelves and various awesome mantels on sale as well. Head over to my website for ALL the details on building, decor and everything in between!
Ahhh! Neil and I finished our biggest #diyproject yet! 💪🏻I’m so lucky I’m married to someone who goes along with all my ideas with little complaint 🤣 Our #diy entertainment space features an electric fireplace, frame tv and the biggest showstoppers of all…the #whiteoak mantel and floating shelves from @dakotatimberco I’m so in LOVE with how it turned out! #dakotatimbercompany sources their wood from retired buildings, urban tree removals as well as other sustainable sources. The quality is INSANE! Each piece meticulously crafted and ready for install. The mantel and shelves come with detailed instructions, steel brackets that hold 150 lbs or more and six 2.5 inch screws. Did I mention it’s #americanmade 🙌🏻 Right now, they have a BOGO sale on floating shelves and various awesome mantels on sale as well. Head over to my website for ALL the details on building, decor and everything in between!
It’s the ultimate twirling dress! 🙌🏻
Comment TWIRL below to receive a DM with the link to shop this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/59b8R #ltkstyletip #ltksalealert
SAVE AND SHARE THIS POST! Check out my Strawberry Cheese Heary Pastries! Perfect for that #galentinesday brunch or for dessert with your loved ones. So yummy and the perfect serving size!
•Preheat oven 400 (this bakes approximately 15 min)
•2 sheets Puff Pastry
•1 egg yolk and 1 egg (for egg wash)
•1 8oz package cream cheese
•1/2 cup sugar
•1 tsp vanilla extract
•10-12 strawberries
Preheat oven to 400 (this will bake for approx. 15 min) Use a heart cookie cutter to cut out your puff pastry hearts and then use a knife to trace a heart into them. Brush on egg wash and set aside. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, vanilla, egg yolk and sugar. Add the cheese mixture to your little hearts (only spreading it up to the line you scored). Add fresh sliced strawberries and bake for 15-20 min! This is SO EASY AND SOOOOO GOOD! #recipeoftheday #danish #dessertrecipe #brunchrecipe #recipereel
SAVE AND SHARE THIS RECIPE! This recipe, by far, was a follower favorite last year! So so easy and omg so good! It’s a great brunch #recipe or dessert!
•store bought puff pastry
•raspberries or raspberry jam (I like fresh fruit better)
•6-8 oz of cream cheese
• 1/2 cup sugar
•1 tsp vanilla extract
•1 egg YOLK only
•powdered sugar
•sliced almonds
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Roll out your puff pastry and cut slices down each side (approximately 1 inch) leaving the center intact and set aside. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, egg and vanilla extract. Place the cheese mixture in the center of your puff pastry ( you may have extra leftover). Sprinkle fresh raspberries on top of the cheese. Fold each side of puff pastry one at a time in a lattice pattern. Brush some egg wash on top. Bake for 25 minutes. Sprinkle powdered sugar and fresh almonds on top for the finishing touch.
This is perfect for Valentines Day and I dare you to try it! #RECIPE #easyrecipe #recipeshare #brunchrecipe #dessert #recipereels
SAVE AND SHARE MY MOST VIEWED RECIPE! This is one of my favorite and most watched recipes and for good reason! My Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake is SOOOO easy to make and perfect for brunch! This can also be frozen and eaten later!
Don’t take my word for it...make it and let me know how fast it was devoured.
•4 large croissants
12-16 oz of cubed ham
•6 oz of shredded gruyere cheese
•6 oz of shredded cheddar cheese
•1/2 cup chopped chives
•6 eggs
•1 cup half and half
•1 tsp. honey
•1 tsp. Dijon mustard
•salt and pepper
Preheat your oven to 375. In a baking dish (spray with non stick spray) add in croissants, ham, cheese and chives. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, honey, mustard and salt and pepper.
Pour the egg mixture over the bake and press down with a fork. Cover with foil and bake for approximately 50 min. This is such a great family recipe and feeds a good amount of people. So before ya come for me with how much cheese is used ( remember that!
#easyrecipe #breakfastfordinner #recipereels #easterbrunch #brunchrecipes
#AD Who loves a good facial exfoliant?! 🙋🏼‍♀️ I ran over to Walgreens to get my favorite @stivesskin Apricot Fresh Skin Exfoliating Facial Scrub. It’s made with 100% natural exfoliants (including milled walnut shells and apricot pits), free from parabens and oils and provides a deep cleanse leaving my skin feeling super clean and oh so smooth. I use this 3 times a week and it makes my skin glow. Dermatologist tested and non-comedogenic, vegan and fur baby friendly! It literally checks all the boxes! Want glowing skin? Try #StIves at #Walgreens #StIvespartner
SAVE AND SHARE THIS RECIPE! These ham and cheese hand pies are the perfect #stpatricksday snack! Super easy and so so good! You only need a few ingredients and a cookie cutter!
•clover cookie cutter
•puff pastry sheet
•Dijon mustard
•Swiss cheese
•corned beef (pastrami also tastes great)
•egg for egg wash
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Use your cookie cutter on the puff pastry. Smear a good amount of Dijon mustard on half of them. Add the corned beef and cheese. Place the puff pastry on top like a sandwich. Using a fork, press down around each clover. Brush egg wash over and poke 4 little holes in the top. Bake in the oven for approximately 20 minutes. These are SOOOO YUMMY and quite a hit in our home! The kids love them! #puffpastry #cornedbeef #easyrecipe
I just binge watched Renovation Aloha and now I NEED another trip to Hawaii. It doesn’t look like it’s in the cards for us this year with Emma going to Boston for singing (we are tagging along for the last week). Buuuutttt, if we were to go……Which is your favorite and why? Big Island or Kauai? We’ve already been to Oahu and Maui and I love each of them for different reasons. PS, I painted all my doors in the house blue on a whim and I think I love them 💙
Comment DENIM and I’ll send you the details! I call this my errand running look….if you are on the fence about this denim jacket….DO IT!
Comment DENIM below to receive a DM with the link to shop this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/57uSO #ltkover40 #ltkactive #ltkstyletip #denimjacket #momstyle #momfit
Leah| 15th Jan 18
These are all really great tips, i’m right there with you in creating deadlines for myself and going to try my best to stick to them! I hope you have a fabulous 2018, thanks so much for sharing!
x – Leah
http://www.ellemae.blog
Kayla| 15th Jan 18
I’ve been in a blogging rut lately and this post is just what I needed! I need to be better about creating deadlines and sticking to them.
Also, I love your outfit! That poncho is adorable!!
xo Kayla
https://www.aclassicambition.com/
Laura Botkin| 15th Jan 18
These are so helpful. I am so like you with going with the flow. I bought myself a planner to help me get organized this year. I am hoping I can follow through all year!
Shaunda Necole| 15th Jan 18
Love the bridge to a New Day!
rebecca| 15th Jan 18
These are great tips that I need to work on as well! Especially setting goals and deadlines and sticking to them. Cheers to a great year ahead!
xx Rebecca // The Crystal Press
http://www.thecrystalpress.com/keep-things-interesting
Ale Harnish| 16th Jan 18
I need to follow your tips
Tinseldot| 16th Jan 18
In love with your style! Thank you for all the great tips!
Love
Cat & Jules