Sweet Dreams & Me Time

Every mom wants and deserves some alone time at the end of the night.  Let’s face it - motherhood is HARD – an amazing blessing, but it is a lot of work.  Knowing I need a couple hours each night to spend some time with my husband, watch trashy reality TV, or bring out that junk food I've hidden from the kids; I have made bedtime a priority.  Not only is it good for me and my marriage, but I’m a firm believer in kids thriving with routine, and bedtime is a big part of that.  Here are some pointers for making your evening run smoothly:

1.       Start em’ young: That doesn't mean it isn't possible to start at any age, but the younger you start; the easier it will be.  I began sleep training within 6 months of age.  I used the book Baby Wise to guide me in teaching them self-soothing techniques.  Great read!  Buy it here

2.       Tell them the plan:  Regardless of age, start communicating your plan verbally.  “After bath, we are going to get pajamas, read books, and get into bed,” or whatever your routine might be.

3.       Follow through:  Kids will always test you.  My son says, “No night night.”  EVERY NIGHT.  Most kids will never ask to go to bed, but it’s your job as the parent to know what they need.  Stick to your plan.  It may take a few nights(or a week or 2) but stick to it.

4.       Know there will be setbacks:  I’m not sure if it’s the moon or my kids randomly choose to rebel, but there will be a week where one of my kids will battle me at bedtime.  It’s the most exhausting week, and it probably happens about 2-3 times a year.  Stand firm mama – it is a phase!

5.       Reward yourself!  Bask in the glory and make that first evening of peace and quiet all about you!  Paint your nails, eat the rest of their Halloween candy, watch Teen Mom, and enjoy this time.

XOXO
~A. Savvy Mom~

Savvy Teacher Gift

Back to school!?!?  I'm not sure where the summer went, but it is quickly coming to an end.  My daughter is starting 2nd grade at a new school, and between buying all new clothes (how does nothing fit?!), shoes, and school supplies we are almost ready - and broke. lol

One important thing I wanted to do was to show her teacher how much we appreciate all of the work she has done already.  As a teacher, I know there's plenty of work to be completed before the 1st day.  I can only imagine how much work an elementary teacher has to do.  I teach high school, so the amount of decorating and labeling I do is far less than an elementary teacher.  (I doubt my teenagers would enjoy their names proudly displayed on their assigned desk)

Since we are new to the school, all I know about her teacher is that she's female.  I tried to pick simple, inexpensive items that most people would enjoy.  I made sure it was items just for her and not for work.

Items I used:
Mason jar - 50% off at Hobby Lobby
Magnetic To Do List - Target
Lint roller - Target
Tic Tacs - Target
EOS lip balm - Target
Ribbon - Hobby Lobby

The most important item inside the jar was a handwritten thank you card expressing our appreciation for her hard work and our excitement for the school year.  I hope this helps start your school year off right!

XOXO

~ A. Savvy Mom ~