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I will start by saying that Trader Joe’s has almost 10 years of commitment from me, so I know just about every ingredient in that store. I’m not stopping any time soon, even though their 19 cent bananas have now gone up to 23 cents. I noticed it as soon as the change was made and before the 20 percent uproar, but like every committed Trader Joe’s shopper, “Imma stick beside them.” I will say this, no matter what Trader Joe’s I enter, the cashiers and staff are all kind. I’ve never had a bad interaction and I always kept an eye out for a few people. Kindest staff ever and you can always get help. With that said, let’s get into this meal. You’re in luck today, I have portions to my ingredients. Ding, ding, ding! Creamy Pasta With Italian Sausage 4 servings You’ll need: 1 packet penne rigate or rigatoni 1 or 2 container(s) of sweet Italian sausage (depends on how much meat you like) 2/3 medium sliced sweet peppers Handful or more of spinach 1 tbsp oil 1 cup pasta sauce 1/2 cup dairy heavy cream/vegan heavy cream 1/2 cup milk 1/2 cup pasta water Shredded cheese *optional and if your choice Start cooking pasta per the instructions on the package. Stop the boiling 3 minutes prior to the recommended time. If 12 minutes is suggested for cooking, cook for 9 minutes. Always set a timer. While the water is boiling, slice the sweet peppers and remove the casing from the sausage. Heat a medium/large pot on medium to high heat. Pour in oil and place the sausages in the pot. Use a fish slice to separate the meat to create a slightly finer texture. Mix when necessary to prevent sticking to the pot. When all the meat is brown, add in the sweet peppers and spinach. Mix it in and allow to cook to the desired texture. By then the pasta should be done and drained saving about 1/2 - 1 cup of the water. Add in the pasta sauce, heavy cream, milk and the pasta water to the sausage mixture. Mix thoroughly. Then add the pasta and allow to cook for 3 minutes covered or to your desired texture. Allow to cool. Serve and grate cheese if desired. Bon appetit!

As your child grows, so do the conversations you have with them. One of the most important talks you'll have is about puberty. Whilei it may seem early, starting the conversation early can help your child feel informed and prepared. Here's how to navigate the puberty talk with your 8-year-old. Understanding the age: You might wonder if 8 is too young to discuss puberty. While every child is different, many start experiencing early signs of puberty around this age. It's crucial to gauge your child's maturity level and tailor the conversation accordingly. Preparing yourself: Before diving into the conversation, take some time to prepare yourself. Gather age-appropriate resources and educate yourself about the changes your child will experience. This will help you feel more confident and ready to answer any questions that may arise. Choosing the right time and Place. Pick a time when you and your child are both relaxed and comfortable. Choose a quiet, private space where you won't be interrupted. This sets the stage for an open and honest discussion. Starting the conversation. Begin by explaining what puberty is in simple terms. You can say, "Your body is going through some changes as you grow older, and that's completely normal." Use age-appropriate language and avoid overwhelming them with too much information at once. Addressing physical changes. Talk about the physical changes they might notice, such as growth spurts, body hair, and changes in body shape. Emphasize that these changes are a natural part of growing up and that everyone experiences them at their own pace. Discussing emotional changes. Puberty isn't just about physical changes; it also involves emotional changes. Let your child know that they might experience mood swings, new feelings, and conflicts with friends. Encourage them to talk about their emotions and reassure them that it's okay to feel the way they do. Encouraging questions. Encourage your child to ask questions throughout the conversation. Be patient and provide honest answers. If you don't know the answer to a question, it's okay to say, "I'm not sure, but let's find out together." Teaching hygiene and self-care. As their body changes, it's essential to teach your child about personal hygiene. Show them how to wash properly, use deodorant, and take care of their skin. This sets the foundation for good self-care habits as they grow older. Respecting privacy. Emphasize the importance of privacy, especially when it comes to their own bodies. Let them know that it's normal to want privacy and that they can always come to you if they have questions or concerns. Having the puberty talk with your 8-year-old doesn’t have to be daunting, but it's an important step in their development. By approaching the conversation with honesty, empathy, and patience, you can help your child feel informed and supported as they navigate this new stage of life.

What are your plans this weekend? Not much is happening here. I seemed to have caught a bug and I plan on doing everything to take care of myself while diving into all the available entertainment I can indulge in. I plan on watching The Circle . If you haven’t already, get into it. After taking the girls to soccer, I hope to stop quickly by Overlook Park or Fall View Park to catch another look at the beautiful Cohoes Falls, the second largest waterfalls in the state of New York. Let’s say that Christian Cooper is wining. The birdwatcher in a viral clash now hosts his own National Geographic show, Extraordinary Birder . Talk about a change of fate. What could have been detrimental to him has breathed new life. Whatever you end up doing, I wish you good health. There is nothing more important.

Gone are the days when I would call my mother crying, because my soon to be one year old had a diet of primarily breast milk and a few select fruits and vegetables. I was an exhausted first time mom to a toddler and even with my experience in childcare, nothing prepared me for how worrisome the task of introducing my child to new homemade foods would be. I quickly realizing that I had a picky eater on my hands. I struggled terribly in the beginning, but eventually delved into practical strategies that completely transformed her into an adventurous eater. The journey to embracing nutritious foods was challenging and rewarding. It also prepared me to deal with my second child, once a great eater, who is now going through her picky eating stage at six years old. Here are some of the tips to nurture a picky eater: Understanding Picky Eating: Picky eating isn't about being stubborn; it often stems from various factors such as sensory sensitivities, texture aversions, a power struggle, behavior modeled by caretakers or simply a fear of the unknown. Picky eating habits are also more likely to develop when caretakers punish, bribe, or reward their children's eating behavior. Recognizing the underlying reasons behind your child's picky eating is crucial to devising effective solutions. For my first daughter the first sign was when I introduced products containing wheat. She displayed symptoms of contact dermatitis and worsening eczema. A one year allergy chest confirmed many food allergies. She pretty soon began resisting foods that she wasn’t allergic to and stuck to limited choices of fruit and vegetables. Realizing that helped in making the decision to start a gluten free , egg free and nut free diet. My younger daughter who once ate many fruits and vegetables, now barely touches one because she no longer likes the taste and/or texture. Knowing the root can help tremendously with finding solutions. Share responsibility: As a parent, I am responsible for setting the tone of what meal time looks like. For the most part, I determine what, where and when food is provided. My kids decide whether or not to eat the food, and how much to eat. In my initial fear that my child was starving herself, I tried encouraging my picky eater to try things, to eat this because “ It’s good for you,” but very quickly realized that what I was doing was coercion and nothing good comes out of that. I had to realize that I owed her nothing more than a balanced meal and she owed herself the responsibility of listening to her hunger cues. Once my children showed they were capable of feeding themselves I allowed them to take on that responsibility, with supervision and absent of coercion. Creating a Positive Food Environment: Fostering a positive attitude towards food is key to encouraging adventurous eating. In my house, there are no separate meals for adults and children. We all eat the same thing with few modifications. Dinner time is meant to be relaxing, so we set the environment for comfort and ease by putting on soothing background music which my daughters love and enjoy. Electronic devices are not allowed at the table. This allows us to focus on conversation instead of battles at the dinner table. The girls are also allowed to have Joe’s Os—Trader Joe’s equivalent of Cheerios—and milk if they don’t want to have what is being served. By no means will I be making a separate meal. I am not a sous chef. Involving Picky Eaters in Meal Preparation: Engaging picky eaters in the cooking process can spark curiosity and make them more invested in trying new foods. Whether it's picking out fresh ingredients at the grocery store or assisting in simple meal preparations, involving them in the kitchen fosters a sense of ownership over their food choices. With their dietary needs changing on a whim, this is a great opportunity to see where your child is at on the food wheel. You will be surprised about how much children’s food preferences change ‘daily.’ Left up to my six year old, we would eat noodles daily for dinner daily, but she hardly ever knows what she wants for breakfast or lunch. It’s also a great idea to have your child help plan an entire family dinner, from finding start to finish. I’ve done this a couple of times with my daughter and she loves it. Kids develop a deeper sense of what goes into planning a family meal. Introducing New Foods Gradually: Balanced eating habits is a Iifelong habit. New foods should be introduced gradually, incorporating them into familiar dishes or pairing them with beloved favorites. Encourage tasting without pressure, emphasizing the exploration of flavors rather than forcing consumption. I’ve passed a trick to the girls that stands the test of time regarding how I learned to eat foods I didn’t like. Put a bite of a food I like along with what I don’t like together on a single bite to mask the taste. Funny enough, my eight year old tried it out and this has been her strategy when she has tried a food and is uncertain about it. Leading by Example: There is the saying, “Children do what they see, not what they’re told.” This is relevant to their dietary choices. Children often mimic the behaviors they see around them. Set a positive example by demonstrating adventurous eating habits yourself. Let them see you savoring new flavors and embracing a diverse range of foods, reinforcing the notion that trying new things is exciting and rewarding. Seeking Professional Guidance: In cases where picky eating significantly impacts nutritional intake or quality of life, seeking guidance from healthcare professionals such as pediatricians or dietitians is essential. They can offer personalized advice and support tailored to the specific needs of the picky eater. Transforming picky eaters into enthusiastic food explorers isn't an overnight feat, but with patience, creativity, and a sprinkle of perseverance, it's entirely achievable. By fostering a positive food environment, involving picky eaters in meal preparation, and introducing new foods gradually, we can pave the way for a lifetime of healthy eating habits. So, here's to embarking on a delicious journey of culinary discovery, one bite at a time! (Photo: Jimmy Dean/Unsplash)

Potatoes will always stand tall in my book. Fry it, boil it, bake it, mash it, scallop it, roast it; no matter how potatoes are made, I will enjoy it. We eat potatoes at my house at least once every week and we enjoy it, so when there is left over mash, I look forward to indulging for breakfast. Here is a quick go to breakfast recipe with mashed potatoes. Ingredients Left over mashed potatoes Baked beans (optional) Sunny side egg Avocados Salt Pepper Old Bay seasoning Then layer as you would like and enjoy. Enjoy in bed for more comfort.

I am the product of a mother who had to raise me with a lot of help from our community. My grandmother, aunts, uncles and family friends played an instrumental role in the person I am today. I am proud of my mother's ability to stand on her own two feet and do what needed to be done to guide me on the right path. There are also the single mothers doing God’s work with little to no support, but still ensuring that their children's needs and wants are met. You can't despise the one who stayed. The status of a single mother can arise from many situations including abandonment, divorce, death, cheating, and abuse (physical, financial, emotional) among others. Unfortunately, and far too often, the conversation of single motherhood usually turns into a criticism of the person who stayed . The loudest voices are the ones who deflects the blame from absent fathers  who create absent father households to the shoulders of the single mothers. Not only does she bear the weight of being primary care taker, she also has to carry the shame. Very rarely is the well-being of the child/children involved the genuine concern. The circumstances that create single mothers should be addressed rather than the single mother herself. Single mothers deserve all the respect and edification that you would give to any kind of caretaker. They require more support as many are trying to accomplish goals that can be difficult to meet in an unsupportive society. They do not need to be reduced to pseudo scientific soundbites of how they are responsible for the demise of the family structure. The pathology of blame the woman for everything needs to end. Rather can criticize her, celebrate her, support her and love her. Show her that she isn’t being abandoned twice; once by a partner and twice by the rest of society. If children are a blessing from God, so are their mothers, the ones who stay. Here are some quotes to keep you going.

What are you up to this weekend? I’m recovering from an elbow “injury.” Getting older is not for the faint. You can sustain an injury just moving your body parts normally. I hope you’re all doing better than I am. I became part of the soccer mom club about seven weeks ago, so my weekends are spent getting kids to overly pristine soccer playgrounds, rain or shine to be their biggest cheer leader. I’ve grown to love it and dad sometimes takes on the task of coaching from the sidelines. This is coming from a very reserved man, but he loves the sport of soccer. Last week, I missed a massive highlight. My older daughter scored a goal. I wish I was there to see her. Dad was beaming with joy and so was she. I don’t plan on missing it this weekend. I borrowed a couple of books from the local library. I hope to start one this weekend. I finally read an article from Chrissy Rutherford Navigating a Marginalized and Privileged Identity with Danielle Prescod even though I have been following her for quite sometime on Instagram. It is surely worth the read, because my children are experiencing life in spaces similar to that of Danielle and Chrissy. Luvvie Ajayi ’s podcast titled Let’s Talk About the Glory and Grit of Entrepreneurship is also of interest to me. As I continue my venture into blogging, I would like to hear from someone who has navigated the space of making writing her life, and how to avoid the pitfalls. We’re going to make a batch of blueberry muffin mix from Trader Joe’s with the girls. As much as I love baking from scratch about ninety five percent of the time, I show myself grace by not feeling like I have to all the time. One of the girls convinced me to sign her up for Anime and Manga Drawing for Beginners from Outschool . Lastly, I need to finally finish the paintings for their bathroom which is long overdue. I will share the finished look. I hope you have a great weekend.

Navigating life with a chronic illness can get very difficult. I live with one that I would like to forget about daily. Unfortunately, I am routinely reminded of it by the frequent episodes of morning stiffness, cognitive impairment and sleep disturbances. Life with a chronic illness is unpredictable, painful, frustrating and extremely stressful. The effects take over all aspects of your life in a sometimes indescribable way. As I sit here writing these words at my desk, my neck and shoulders feel like they’re on fire, one of the many effects of my condition. I struggle on many days to maintain my routine, especially when activities are happening for the kids. I had to quit my job earlier this year as a human resources professional. The unbearable pain from driving for long periods, extended periods of sitting, and fibro fog made it difficult to hit the ground running. I made a concerted effort to conserve energy so that I can be present as a mother to my two younger children, but even that did not work. I had to grapple with the fact that I can’t do it all or be it all .  “Life requires two things from us; to be flexible and to be open.” Routines serve a significant purpose in productivity and stability. It is a pathway to achieving goals, maintaining mental health, and fostering a sense of control. However, for people living with chronic illnesses, sticking to a routine can be a complex challenge. Chronic illnesses, characterized by persistent and often fluctuating symptoms, demand a level of flexibility and adaptation that conventional routines rarely accommodate. For this reason, we can explore the many ways in which chronic illnesses complicate maintaining routines, and explore strategies to navigate these difficulties. The Nature of Chronic Illnesses Chronic illnesses encompass a wide range of conditions, including autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis , metabolic disorders such as diabetes , and neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis and of course, fibromyalgia . These illnesses often present with symptoms that can vary dramatically from day to day or even hour to hour. Cognitive impairment, pain, fatigue, and digestive issues are just a few examples of symptoms that can interfere with daily activities.  Chronic illnesses persist over long periods, often for a lifetime. This means that individuals with chronic illnesses must constantly balance our health needs with other life responsibilities, such as work, family, and social commitments. The Challenge of Unpredictability One of the most significant challenges to maintaining a routine for people with chronic illnesses is unpredictability . Flare-ups, which are a sudden and severe increase of symptoms, make the simplest tasks like getting out of bed or preparing a meal, or even taking a shower feel almost impossible.  A few months ago, I started working out with a friend two times per week, but after about a month of consistently showing up, a flare made these plans impossible. As part of my care routine , I continued working out at home, but I have yet to return to working out with my friend. Part of it is that I do not want to cancel future appointments due to another flare, so to avoid that kind of conversation I simply have decided to stick to working out alone or at home. Energy Management: The Spoon Theory Christine Miserandino's Spoon Theory is a widely accepted metaphor that illustrates the energy limitations experienced by people with chronic illnesses. According to this theory, individuals have a limited number of "spoons" representing units of energy available for daily activities. Healthy individuals typically have a seemingly unlimited supply, but those with chronic illnesses must carefully ration their spoons to get through the day.  For instance, taking a shower, cooking breakfast, or driving to work all require spoons. Once these spoons are used up, the person may be too exhausted to continue with other planned activities. This constant need to prioritize and conserve energy makes it challenging to stick to a fixed routine. The Mental Health Component One of the big hits of living with a chronic illness is the significant toll it takes on your mental health. Conditions like depression and anxiety are common among individuals with chronic illnesses, partly due to the ongoing stress and uncertainty associated with our health.  These mental health fluctuations can further complicate the ability to stick to a routine. On days when depression is overwhelming, the motivation to complete even routine tasks can be non-existent. Anxiety can cause people to overextend themselves in an attempt to compensate for perceived shortcomings , leading to burnout and an inability to maintain a consistent schedule. Social and Professional Impacts The difficulty in maintaining a routine can have broad social and professional implications. For instance, I struggled at times to meet the expectations of my previous employer who needed consistency and reliability. This led to me feeling insecure about my position and a loss of professional identity . I frequently questioned if I was cut out for this, but then downplayed how my chronic illness played a significant role in my performance.  Socially, the unpredictable nature of chronic illnesses can strain relationships. Friends and family may not always understand why we have to cancel plans frequently or why we might need to rest instead of participating in activities. This can lead to feeling isolated and frustrated. Adapting Routines to Fit Individual Needs Given these challenges, it's crucial for people with chronic illnesses to develop adaptable routines that account for our unique health needs. Here are some strategies that can help: 1. Flexibility is Key Rigid routines are often impractical for those with chronic illnesses. Instead, flexible routines that allow for adjustments based on daily health fluctuations are more effective. This might mean having multiple versions of a routine: one for high-energy days, another for low-energy days, and a third for days when symptoms are particularly severe. 2. Prioritization and Delegation Identifying the most critical tasks and focusing on those can help conserve energy. Delegation is also vital. When possible, delegating tasks to others can alleviate the burden. If you live alone or cannot delegate much to others professionally, I encourage leaving critical tasks for another day and communicate your need for help from supervisors.  3. Momentum over Motivation Prominent podcaster Mel Robbins speaks eloquently about creating massive momentum in situations of anxiety and depression, On your way to doing hard things, you will lose motivation, but momentum on the other hand is what can sustain you. Getting in the habit of completing small tasks that accomplish big goals is a way forward for sufferers of chronic illness sufferers. 4. Incorporating Rest and Recovery Scheduling regular breaks and rest periods into the daily routine can help manage fatigue. This might include short naps, meditation, EFT tapping or simply quiet time to recharge. 5. Using Technology for Assistance There are numerous apps and tools designed to help with task management and scheduling. These can provide reminders, track symptoms, and help plan activities around fluctuating energy levels. Examples include health tracking apps that monitor symptoms and provide data that can be shared with healthcare providers. 6. Building a Support Network Having a strong support network is invaluable. A therapist or support groups either in-person or online, can provide a sense of community and understanding. If you’re fortunate, friends and family can offer practical assistance and emotional support, making it easier to navigate the challenges of daily life. 7. Self-Compassion and Acceptance Perhaps one of the most important aspects of managing a routine with a chronic illness is self-compassion. This is something that I actively had to work on in therapy. It's vital for us  to recognize our limitations and not judge ourselves harshly for needing rest or being unable to stick to a routine. Acceptance of our condition and its impact on daily life can reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Sticking to a routine is undeniably challenging for people with chronic illnesses. The unpredictable nature of these conditions, coupled with the need to manage energy and mental health, requires a flexible and compassionate approach. Ultimately, the goal is to find a balance that allows for the best possible quality of life, despite the limitations.

This past weekend, we made a last minute trip to NYC to see my mom and reunite my daughters with some of their childhood friends. It was wonderful and we all had a great time. As exciting as it has been moving to another city, we miss our community of friends and the relationships we nurtured for all these years. We encountered challenges, but with some effort, we have managed to maintain the important relationships, in spite of the physical distance.  One of the big challenges throughout this transition was maintaining balanced relationships. I did my very best to help preserve their friendships by organizing virtual play dates and video chats, but it felt like I was the only one reaching out to initiate these arrangements. I fell into the space of feeling that I was putting more effort into trying to maintain contact than they were. Nothing feels worse than when effort is not reciprocated, especially on behalf of your child whom the kids loved playing with. So I made the decision to preserve the relationships where parents participated and let the others evaporate. This was a true life lesson for the girls knowing that some people are only meant to be in their lives for a season.  For those who stayed, here’s how we have been able to keep those bonds with the kids, no matter the distance. 1. Both parties need to be invested I cannot emphasize this first point enough. Maintaining a long-distance friendship requires effort from both sides. Both parties (parents) have to be equally invested in keeping the connection alive. Avoid letting the relationship become one-sided, where one person is always initiating contact or making plans. This will make or break the relationship between the children. 2. Embrace Technology In today’s digital age, staying in touch is easier than ever. Video chat has been a great resource for the kids. Platforms like WhatsApp, Zoom, and FaceTime make it easy to have real-time conversations. It shortens the miles between us. We also share photos, videos, and updates to maintain a sense of closeness. 3. Schedule Regular Check-Ins Having a routine ensures that you stay connected and involved in each other. This could be a weekly video call, a monthly phone call, or even a virtual coffee date. Consistency helps maintain a sense of normalcy and ensures you don’t drift apart. I even scheduled virtual play dates. There were times when we got busy and miss those appointments, but by communicating these inconveniences we manage to quickly get back on track. 4. Plan Visits Whenever possible, plan visits to see each other. It could be for holidays, special occasions, or just because. Having something to look forward to can keep both of you excited about maintaining the friendship. 5. Adapt to Change Conversations with the girls have been crucial in this transition. We talk about how their lives will change over time, and so will their friendships. They are learning to be flexible and willing to adapt. They are realizing that sometimes, life events might make it harder to stay in touch as frequently as before, but this doesn’t mean the friendship is any less valuable. Maintaining long-distance friendships requires effort, commitment, and creativity. For children, that transition can be successful with the active participation of parents who understand that teaching their child to nurture these relationships is important. By leveraging technology, being intentional, and staying flexible, you can ensure that distance doesn’t diminish the bond you share. Remember, it’s the quality of your connection, not the quantity, that truly matters. What did you do to help your children maintain their relationships after moving?

Just a year ago, my family packed our belongings and moved out of the apartment we had been living in for about fifteen years. It was hard leaving so much history in our 450-square-foot apartment that we began in as a couple. We added two more little residents to the space, so let's say, it was a full house. As tiny as it was, I grew to love that apartment, though weekends often highlighted just how limited our living space was. However, it was in the quiet moments that I came to truly value our small NYC apartment. We simply learned to adapt and thrive within our home . For many people like us, living in a small apartment was not just a choice but a necessity. My family of four was no exception. We discovered that with creativity, flexibility, and a positive mindset, it was possible to live comfortably, even in a tight space. The key to thriving in a small apartment lies in how well you utilize the space available to you. I became an expert at maximizing every square foot of that apartment, turning what could have felt cramped into a home that met all of our needs. It wasn't always easy, but it was rewarding and taught us valuable lessons about simplicity, organization, and the true meaning of home. The Challenge of Sleeping Arrangements: Sacrifices and Solutions . One of the most significant challenges we faced in our small apartment was figuring out the sleeping arrangements. When our first daughter was born, it became clear that my existing setup wouldn’t work. To make room for her crib, I had to part with a beautiful makeup station that I cherished. It was a difficult decision, but one that was necessary for our growing family. The challenge didn’t stop there . When our second daughter arrived, we had to reposition our bed and get rid of the changing table to make room for yet another crib. The sacrifice of convenience was tough, but it was essential in creating a space where our children could sleep comfortably. These changes worked out better than I could have imagined. We managed to carve out a sleeping space that accommodated all of us without feeling too overcrowded. Bedroom and bed-sharing became a natural part of our routine. Each of us had a designated place to sleep, and we all slept comfortably, even in such close quarters. There’s something incredibly comforting about having everyone so near. Some nights, we would all pile into the big bed, snuggle up, and drift off to sleep together. These moments of closeness are some of the most precious, reminding me that while space was limited, the love and connection we share as a family are boundless. The Living Room: Our Multifunctional Family Hub . In a small apartment, every room must serve multiple purposes, and our living room was the epitome of this multifunctionality. The space was where our daughters played, where we gathered as a family, and where we entertained guests. Given the room’s multiple uses, keeping it organized and functional was crucial. To maintain order, I adopted a minimalist approach when it came to toys. I bought only what was necessary and ensured that all toys had a designated storage spot, typically in canvas bins and containers that blended seamlessly with the room’s decor. Toy rotation became a game-changer for us. When the girls received new toys, I stored some of their older ones away. Later, I brought the old toys back out, and they would feel brand new to the girls. This system was a win-win and kept the living room tidy while also keeping our daughters engaged and entertained. The living room’s flexibility is what made it such an essential part of our home. Whether we were hosting a family movie night, engaging in a play session, or simply relaxing, this space adapted to our needs. By keeping it organized and clutter-free, we ensured that it remained a functional and enjoyable area for all of us. Creative Storage Solutions: Making Every Inch Count . Storage is perhaps the biggest challenge in any small apartment, and ours was no exception. With limited space, I had to get creative to ensure that we were able to store everything we needed. I learned to make use of every available inch of space, finding storage solutions in places that might otherwise go unused. For example, we had a closet in our living room that had extra space to the far right and an oddly sloped bottom. I realized rather than hanging clothing there which I rarely did, installing shelves was a better use of space. Under our couch was a valuable storage spot, as was the space under the girls’ beds. Ours was quite low, so it did not accommodate much. Our furniture was multifunctional offering storage solutions, allowing us to keep our belongings organized and out of sight. This was essential in maintaining a livable and functional space. I had been practicing the principles of the KonMari method long before I ever heard of Marie Kondo. The idea of keeping only what sparks joy resonates deeply with me, especially in a small space where every item must serve a purpose. By being selective about what we keep and finding smart storage solutions for the things we need, we’ve been able to create a home that feels both spacious and serene. Creative Storage Solutions: Making Every Inch Count . Storage is perhaps the biggest challenge in any small apartment, and ours was no exception. With limited space, I had to get creative to ensure that we were able to store everything we needed. I learned to make use of every available inch of the apartment, finding storage solutions in places that might otherwise go unused. For example, we had a closet in our living room that had extra space to the far right and an oddly sloped bottom. I realized rather than hanging clothing there which I rarely did, installing shelves was a better use of space. Under our couch was a valuable storage spot, as was the space under the girls’ beds. Ours was quite low, so it did not accommodate much. Our furniture was multifunctional offering storage solutions, allowing us to keep our belongings organized and out of sight. This was essential in maintaining a livable and functional space. I had been practicing the principles of the KonMari method long before I ever heard of Marie Kondo. The idea of keeping only what sparks joy resonates deeply with me, especially in a small space where every item must serve a purpose. By being selective about what we keep and finding smart storage solutions for the things we need, we’ve been able to create a home that feels both spacious and serene. Involving the Kids: Teaching Responsibility and Teamwork . One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in this journey is the value of involving our children in the cleaning and organizing process. By assigning them small tasks, like tidying up their toys or helping with simple cleaning chores, we not only keep our home organized but also taught them important life skills. Getting the kids involved has made a significant difference in how we manage our space. It’s not just about keeping things clean—it’s about fostering a sense of responsibility and teamwork. Our daughters understand the importance of maintaining order, and they have grown to take pride in helping out around the house. My older daughter has gotten a grasp on the value of being a contributing member of our family, but my little one is getting there. Baby steps. The Power of Routine: Staying Organized in a Small Space . To maintain a clean and organized home, I’ve developed a daily and weekly cleaning and organization routine. This routine helped in making our small space functional and enjoyable. We stuck to it for the most part to ensure that clutter did not build up and that everything remained in its designated place. The philosophy that “everything has a home” is central to how we maintain order in our apartment. Every item, no matter how small, has a specific spot where it belongs. This approach makes it easy to find things when we need them and reduces the stress that can come from living in a cluttered space. Following a routine also helps me manage the demands of daily life in a small apartment. With two young children, it’s easy for things to get messy quickly, but by staying on top of the cleaning and organization, I can keep our home in a state that feels both livable and enjoyable. Finding Joy in a Small Space . For me, there’s a deep sense of satisfaction that comes from living in a clean, organized space. It’s one of the reasons why our small apartment worked so well for us. At that time, I recognized the value of what we had. Our apartment may have been small, but it’s filled with love, laughter, and memories. Rather than focusing on the limitations of our space, we chose to focus on the positives. We made countless memories in that apartment, and when the time came to move on, we missed that tiny space. It was the backdrop for so many important moments in our lives, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful. Embracing the Journey: Living in the Moment . Living in a small space taught us to appreciate what we have and to make the most of it. We learned to be resourceful, creative, and, most importantly, to cherish the time we spend together as a family. Our apartment was small, but it’s filled with love and joy, and that’s what truly matters. We have since moved to a bigger apartment and will value the lesson of living in the moment and the joy we found in making this small space our home. Living in a small New York apartment with a family of four posed its challenges, but it was a rewarding experience. Our journey has taught us to value and focus on the things that truly matter—love, family, and the memories we make together.   In the end, it’s not about the size of the space you live in, but how you live in that space.