Welcome to Part II of Leianna's story. Last time we discussed her conversion story (what an awesome God we have!), how she homeschools and what her prayer life looks like. She's a recent convert and a new homeschooling mama but she has a lot to share with us. I hope you are all enjoying learning about her and from her. Today, let's talk about organization and self-care!
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Daily Organization
Chore Strategies
Leianna considers herself to be very organized. Don't let that scare you away, however! Not everyone is born that way, that's for sure, but with some help from others, you can definitely improve your organizational game.
She does struggle in one area! She says, "I feel organized in every area of my house and life, except for things that enter my house from other people - usually for the kids!
This stuff comes in and it's really hard to get rid of it. I am trying to let go of control over the kids bedrooms, but I am finding that very difficult with my personality!!"
As far as chores go, "we have loose rules. The kids know that they are allowed to make messes; it's okay to make messes! BUT, they have to clean it up before making a new mess. I've made it easy for them by making sure that everything has a home.
As far as actual cleaning, that's a different story. I consider myself extremely tidy, but not very clean. I can keep on top of wiping counters, vacuuming and mopping, but that's it. Our house is too big for me to keep on top of toilets, mirrors, the hood vent and the front of the refrigerator, so we hire out help.
I have cleaners that come once every quarter to clean those things that I don't get around to. It feels so good to not worry about some of the cleaning. Oh, and my husband cleans the toilets in between cleanings!
When it comes to laundry, I wash one load per day and divide it by person so that putting it away is easier. I can put my daughter's laundry away one day and my son's the next."
Struggles and Advice
Her biggest struggle in the household organization arena is the kids' stuff. She says, "they are their own little beings. My daughter is tidy but holds on to every little thing. Her stuffed animal bin, and every other bin of toys, is overflowing. It drives me crazy!
My son, on the other hand, is very good about letting go of toys, but he cannot keep his room clean. I understand that it can be very difficult for a little person to take off a shirt before bed and actually place it in the hamper! I've set consequences, like not being allowed to play video games, unless his room is clean.
Finding the right motivation for each child is tricky!"
The advice she'd like to leave you with is this:
- Hiring cleaners (if you can) takes the pressure off of getting it all done.
- Keep the kids responsible for their things and their messes.
- Let them know what is expected of them. Her kids are expected to clean their dishes, wipe the table and put away their toys, for example. "These habits, from and early age, have made it easier to manage messes and reduce angry out-bursts."
Meal Planning
"My husband and I meal plan together. We have a basic weekly menu that allows us to make adjustments. For example, Thursday is past night. Maybe we'll do lasagna, baked ziti, alfredo, etc. We don't plan too far ahead, buying groceries every couple of days and discussing who can make dinner which nights. We are blessed that he works from home and is available to help out with dinner!"
Self-Care
As for taking care of herself, Leianna says, "once a year my husband and I take turns getting a weekend away. We usually go up to the local mountains and rent a cabin. I use the time to plan my year, breaking down goals for each quarter.
We haven't implemented it yet, but we are planning on my husband and I each taking one day off per month. I'll probably grab coffee and a book and head to the beach.
Other than that, I am diligent about making sure I have my morning quiet time. I find that waking up on my terms makes for a much better day!"
I asked her what she likes to do to take a break and I loved her truthful answer! "Go outside, sit in the backyard with a coffee and just chill. I'd like to say that I read a book, but let's be real. You'll find me scrolling through Instagram or Zillow!"
When asked what she and her husband do together, she told me "we love to watch TV together. We make a point to have an hour together every night and usually watch TV but sometimes we'll end up talking about our current struggles and stresses.
As for date nights, we just found a sitter through our parish to babysit! I'd like to do a monthly date night. He would prefer every two weeks. We'll probably just go to Chipotle for dinner and have an uninterrupted conversation!"
Leianna in California, Thank You!
I love to meet people and to learn more about how they do things, don't you? Thank you so much, Leianna, for sharing your life with us.
Remember, you can follow her on Instagram @simplyleianna.
If you would like to participate in the Catholic Homeschooling Mama Showcase, contact me and we'll get started!