This week has been a bit crazy getting back into routine after a long summer. My kids definitely got used to staying up late and sleeping in (well sleeping till around 7am, lol). Now, we have to be up, dressed, fed, lunches packed, homework done and out the door by 7:30am. Gone are pajama mornings seven days a week. However, I do appreciate routine and the kids do function better when they know what to expect for the day.
A handful of weeks ago, I started prepping for school. I did the big school supply shopping with our school’s “list” and went to the grocery store to stock up on items for lunches. I then began thinking of our morning routine and how to make it as smooth as possible. Fortunately, I did teach my kids early on in establishing a morning routine. When they wake up, they get dressed, brush their teeth and do their hair all before coming out for breakfast. We started this when they were under two, so now they do it themselves (with my help in styling their hair). I knew this part of the morning would be smooth sailing, however, getting out the door was another story. We have a mud room in our new house, however, it’s pretty small. I knew their would be many chaotic moments with all three trying to get their shoes, coats and backpacks. I began looking at our space and seeing how it could function more efficiently.
Fortunately, our laundry room is right off the hall way to the garage door and their was a lot of wasted space. I hired a carpenter and we laid out a design that would be functional for the kids and keep us organized. He had the entire project built in a day! We are very happy with how it turned out and the kids love having their own space.
I did learn however, that carpenters (at least mine) do not paint! I thought, how hard can it be? I’ve painted before (never cabinets) but was up for the challenge. Let me tell you, it was a challenge! If you are thinking of tackling a painting job, plan for it to take twice the amount of time you’re originally planning. It was a very tedious job and I’m glad its completed.
When I began decorating the space, I found these adorable whitewashed wood letters at Hobby Lobby. Not only are they cute, but each kid knows where to put their items.
Our master calendar is in the office, so I wanted something that would show a snapshot of the week in the mud room. After searching online, I realized I could make my own note roll (instead of purchasing one as most this size are over $50). I purchased a curtain rod ($9.99), a roll of kraft gift wrap ($4.99) and large wood clothespins ($1.49). To assemble, simply hang the curtain rod, place the wrapping paper on the rod, clip the paper clips to keep the paper down and TA-DA! Now each week, I take the paper roll off the rod to write out the week and then rehang it. I love the function and the look!
I hope you’ve found this helpful and can use some of these tips in your home!
XOXO,
