Thieves...Kinda!

The beginning of a new school year is always exciting for teachers. We try our hardest to be the most creative. To have the cutest door decorations. The best bulletin boards. And the most Pinterest-inspired classroom. Last August, it looked like Pinterest had exploded in our entire school. Cutesy was everywhere! It was almost a contest to see who could make their classroom the best.

Want to know the really great thing though? No one minded if you "stole" their idea. Teachers are the most conspicuous thieves there are. We know a great idea when we see one, and we'll be the first to snatch it right up! But luckily, we're the first to share too. =) 

So many of the things I do, both at home and at work, have not been my own creation. You take little bits from everywhere, and combine them with even more steals, and mash them into your own world. And that's how you get your own personality. Your design. Your "you."

So today, I'm going to share a few things that I've learned throughout my Grown Up Years. And I want you to steal them! If it's something you want to do too, do it! Take credit for it even! I don't care. I just want to help you be a better you.

 

1. Use a fabric softener. It's worth it. I promise. 

2. Meal plan. Make a list of 5-6 dinners you know your family loves, make your grocery list off that, and stick to your menu. This saves me so much time, money, and energy each week! 

3. Speaking of meals- use your crockpot! That baby is a necessity for easy! 

4. Also speaking of food- price match. Aldi's has the best prices for produce. Download their app on your smartphone (available for both android and itunes) and get your fruits and veggies at an amazing price!

5. Invest in some Thirty-One bags, baskets, and organizers. They are life savers! I use them for organizing my classroom and home. My kids have multiple bags of their own (all embroidered with their name!) which they use for sleep overs, sports equipment, hair supplies, etc. Contact my fabulous consultant here if you don't have your own Thirty-One consultant!!

6. Chat with your friends- get together with snacks and drinks and share ideas! Don't be afraid to share your own or feel ashamed for stealing. 

7. Invest in yourself. Take time to read a good book, sip a glass of wine (or coffee!), and enjoy a hobby. Take care of your body- eat right and exercise. Invest in your skin- take care of it and it will take care of you. You'll be in this skin for the rest of your life. And you deserve the best!

I do owe a few friends a "special thanks" for helping me create my perfect "me." 

Thanks to Amy- for first getting me started in menu planning =)

Thanks to Julie- for sharing her 31 with me

Thanks to Angie- for sharing your shopping secrets and smell good secrets with me!

Thanks to Mandy- for hooking me up with the Nerium family!