Balancing a Full Schedule Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Yesterday was wonderful. I drove to Charlotte to catch up over coffee with Julie and Lexi. Although we used to meet regularly while I lived in North Carolina, we’ve stayed in touch via text and voice messages since my move. A timely text exchange made this get‑together possible, and it was truly so rewarding.

First, it’s enjoyable to “talk shop” with fellow veteran bloggers. Blogging has always been a distinctive pursuit, but in today’s landscape of influencers, social media, and countless online income streams, it has become even more unique. I know friends who run businesses across the digital spectrum—selling courses, offering digital products, amassing hundreds of thousands of Instagram followers, and so on—each with its own audience, strategy, and sometimes a full team. Conversing with two other bloggers who are also engaged mothers in a similar life stage and share our values is incredibly valuable. We just understand each other.

That’s why, over the years, they’ve become dear friends to me. Finding girlfriends who support, uplift, encourage, empathize, and are genuinely enjoyable to brainstorm and chat with is a true gift.

.

The day before, September 1, I spent time with neighboring friends to celebrate a special occasion. You might already guess what it is—yes, September 1!

It’s Harry Potter Day, the first day back to Hogwarts classes, which we Harry Potter fans—enthusiasts, if you prefer—like to commemorate. My friend goes all out with decorations, games (this year featured a themed Triwizard Tournament with three challenges), and everyone brings themed snacks. With participants ranging from age 2 to 42, it’s fun for everyone.

Since the wizard kids are officially back at Hogwarts and my two muggles are officially back to a co-op schedule, it feels like the fall season is upon us (despite the 95 degree sauna outside). However, inside my home, fall has arrived. I decorated this week and the subtle change of texture and colors has started to make the mornings and evenings feel cozy.

.

Today, between IEW, Saxon math, and garden‑club responsibilities, I’m also planning meals for Labor Day. It’s my favorite weekend of the year, and Nana, Kris, Cara, Kyla, and Lacey are coming to visit. We’ll turn down the air‑conditioning, lay out a snack spread, and cheer on Kirby and the Bulldogs! What about the LSU‑Clemson game? Any predictions? I think Lane and LSU are likely to win, but I’m hoping—and cheering—for a Dabo‑led upset for my newly adopted hometown team.

On the menu so far: smoked pork‑butt sandwiches with homemade pickles, Kris’ Mexican layered dip, watermelon, pigs in a blanket with a spicy mustard, veggies and dip, burgers and grilled corn, and onion dip. Not all at once, but looking forward to it all nonetheless.

Despite our full days, I’m really doing my best to start savoring the ‘ber months now. They are my absolute favorite. Kicking thing off with September, which includes Labor Day weekend, my Hailey girl turning 15 (how?!), college football with friends, soccer games to watch, and my birthday thrown in there, too. I’m a planner so it helps me to look ahead and see what is in store for the week, but then I keep reminding myself to just live in the day.

I’m probably a little behind on my checklist of admin tasks. I have a cyst on my noggin I need to call and schedule to remove per my dermatologist. The girls need haircut appointments. I need to drop off Finley’s “business” for her regular fecal evaluation (ew). I have homemade bone broth that I need to can today. And I really should figure out what we’re wearing for family pictures.

But I also recognize that feeling “caught up” on everything is an illusion. It’s not going to happen so I’m not going to let it stress me out. I’m just going to bop along, checking off what I can and remembering that my main focus is to be a present and joyful wife, mom, and friend. Perhaps that progesterone I started taking a week ago is indeed working or perhaps it’s just knowing the ‘ber months are here, but either way, it’s nice to feel busy without feeling overwhelmed.

Wishing you the same! <3

Source link