Response to: “How do make/find time for friendships while being a busy parent?”This is a good question! I’ve found that it just takes effort! Which is hard when you feel so busy and wonder how to add anything else in. When my kids were little it was good to find places I could take them with me and find moms in a similar stage of life. Park dates are so good at that stage. But I also noticed as I look back at where my friendships have come from that a lot of it stemmed from just saying yes to a simple invite when it would have been really easy to say no. For instance: to play pickleball even though I wasn’t very good at it yet. To a book club or cook book club even though I didn’t know anyone but the the one mom that invited me. To help at school events or with kids sports teams even though I don’t know what I’m doing! Lol I’ve found that being open to trying things is a great avenue to meet people even if it requires stepping out of your comfort zone. And as for making time…I try to show up when I can (within reason) when other people plan something. They are less likely to keep inviting if you can never come. If what others are planning never works for your schedule, try being the planner! Find a time that works for you and pick something fun to do! It can be as simple as hosting a movie night after the kids are in bed, meeting up for dessert somewhere or even waking up early for a morning walk. I think friendships are so rewarding as an adult and are worth the effort!
Response to: “What are some of your favorite birthday party favors?”I also hate buying and passing on basically junk (which are what most party favors are imo). I first of all, I don’t feel bad if I don’t send them home with anything, I don’t think that is a requirement for hosting a party. I think for most people the fun is in going to the party. But if I do send something home it’s usually something they have made at the party or that was used at the party. One time we did an art party and they painted their own picture on canvas so they got to take that home. Another time they decorated their own cupcake at the party and they could either eat it or take it home. Etc. someone else mentioned taking home balloons at the end of the party and that’s a great idea!
Response to: “What’s your go-to dinner recipe when you need a quick, healthy meal?”Chili! I usually have all the cans on hand to throw together and it can cook as long as you need it to or as short as you have to just warm it up.