But don’t assume all roads lead to Destination Disaster. By planning and keeping expectations in check, a road trip can be a sure route to cherished family memories.

Homeschooling is a job. As a homeschool mom, I am responsible for teaching our children. And yes, we can take a break day here and there, but what if I can still have my children learn on “those days”? Then “those days” can be a successful day.

Now, the only journal I keep is a small, 5-year daily calendar with about 4 tiny lines for each day.  You only have space for one single memory per day.  I bought this calendar when my twins were born four years ago, and I have not kept up very well until this year. 

The minivan gets some major love via social media. Maybe all those love stories built my expectations up too high. Letdown was inevitable. Don’t get me wrong, I fully recognize the practicality of the van. 

Lily was diagnosed at age 4. You’ve read our story through diagnosis. Fast forward over the next few years, and we find Lily in 3rd grade.

When I left you last, Lily had just begun methotrexate and was having a rough time. Luckily for us, she was one of the fortunate ones who was able to somewhat adapt to the meds.

If you are like me, then you genuinely like spending summertime with your kids. Most of the time. Just not all of the time. But there’s still a lot of daylight between now and that first school bell, moms. So here are some tips to keep your cool during the stresses of summer:

Sounds like an escape from the everyday, right? This is what you will experience when you have a facial at Hope Della Skincare in Bellevue.  For busy moms, the relaxation component probably ranks at the top for reasons to get a facial, but it also has great benefits for your skin.

 From here on out, I am challenging myself to see myself the way my child sees me, and to be the person that my second thought believes I am. And, it cannot stop with me – I challenge you to do the same.  

So I challenge you this summer to set some goals.  And to make it more fun, I’m framing them into something I’m calling the 1000 – 100 – 10 challenge!