-Use cloth napkins. Go find some inexpensive sets and use them for everyday at the table. This will save A TON on paper towels and paper napkins. I have a set for the kids that is fine to stain. Just bleach in the laundry and let them use again. Not to mention, I have incorporated table manners, and they are learning to put them in their laps.
-Vinegar and water will clean about everything-including windows! Yes, a large container white vinegar and bleach are really the only cleaning products I use. If soft scrub is on sale, I will purchase that :). Just take 3 parts water and dilute with one part vinegar, based on the size of your job. I have been wanting to try to add juice of a lemon, but I never want to use my lemons! Ha. For the record, I will never use anything else to clean windows...so clear the birds try to fly through!
-Sautéing olive oil, chopped garlic and red onion is becoming a staple for almost every meal I make. This is providing us with more flavor without all the salt. Depending on what it is, I may also use a teaspoon brown sugar or orange zest. This turns out great as glaze for chicken.
-Sometimes, girls just need a little alone time. If I see this is needed, I provide them with some quiet learning toys or just baby dolls, and separate them. They play for 30 minutes enjoying the alone moments.
-I started looking at news on the iPad way too much. We don't have cable and it is just the most convenient thing to do. In order to disconnect myself, I made certain times in the day when I can remain connected. This has helped my Scripture study time and time for reading books instead. I recommend being very limited on this old technology stuff! (Read this blog, of course:)
-Always give each child a tissue in their pocket before going outside. This prevents a tissue mix-up, oh my...
-Among all moments of chaos at home, be thankful you are at home. Every time things have been difficult, I pray with thanksgiving for this opportunity to have Olivia at home. Yes, things have been a bit difficult at times. This has driven me in an even closer relationship with my husband and Savior. I want that for you too.
-Always let her go first with the toothbrush...then I finish up! She is happy..the teeth are actually clean!:)
