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January Recap and February Goals 2015



January started of with Joshua Turning 2.  He really loved the show Paw Patrol, so I attempted to create his cake to match.  It was a struggle, but making the kids cakes myself is something I try to do each birthday.



This month has been a bit chaotic in our routine and schedule.  The "snow" has caused so many delays and school cancellations.  As you can see, the amount of actual snow has been minimal, but any chance of precipitation turns our area upside down.


January has been a bit tiring as well.  My husband has been traveling for work, and it's been just me and the kiddos with no real breaks.  Let's just say that McD's sweet tea has saved my sanity a few times.


 I am excited that February is here, for no real reason in particular, other than it is one month closer to nice weather!

So for February, here are a few things I hope to accomplish.

1.  I have a few household management things I need to tie up loose ends with.  Getting everything in order after the move was put on hold during the holidays.  I have been making great progress, but still have a few things that need finished.

2.  TAXES.  Everyone hates to do them, I am no exception to that.  I am waiting on one form and then we should be able to finish them for this year!!

3.  I really want to get the kids clothing organized.  I usually wait to do this during a time when the seasons are changing, however it is too out of control.  I need to go through drawers and purge things that are not being worn or do not fit.

4.  Be consistent online.  While I don't need to post each and everyday, I do want to keep up with posting on all forms of social media.  It is hard to balance, but I have found It is easier to stick with it if I am posting regularly.

What are some of your goals for the month?  I would love to hear them in the comments below!

Also you can watch my full recap and goals video below!





2015 Erin Condren Life Planner Setup



I am a planner lover, and will the be the first to admit this book may or may not be the key to me keeping it all together.  Today I am sharing a walkthrough of how I use my life planner.  My goal this year is to use the same book throughout the entire year.


I love being able to change out my planner cover, above is my current cover: Turquoise Platinum Edition.



The Meal plan insert (which I bought separately) has been so handy for making trips to the grocery store.  You have your meal plan on one side, and your list on the other.



On the inside of the book I have attached many things with coil clips to add a bit of my own touch to the planner.  My dashboard (shown above) is one of my additions.  A place for all my sticky notes for quick scheduling.

I love maximizing my pages by adding cute stickers and page flags.  While I do like to decorate I prefer to keep it functional.  To see weekly layouts be sure to find my planner inspired Instagram account and follow along @livelaughplan


I am sure to utilize each and every notes page in the back.  I use them for lists that will not change, and things I like to refer to frequently.  

To see the entire walk through of my planner be sure to watch the video below!


For $10 off your first purchase to erincondren.com click here ----> https://www.erincondren.com/referral/invite/samanthaeidemiller




**I am in no way sponsored by or affiliated with Erin Condren.  I purchase all items on my own or use referral credit.  The link provided for $10 off is a referral that I do get store credit for.  I try to use the credit to make purchases of things y'all would like to see reviewed.

Monday Meal Plan and Grocery Haul

My meal plan has changed about 12 times in the past 2 days....  Life has been a bit hectic with my husband traveling and travel plans changing.  When times like this happen, I try to rearrange rather than completely change it up and have to go purchase more items.  Here is what we are eating this week!

Monday - Pot Roast w/ Potatoes ( The kids have off school, and it is supposed to be cold, rainy, and snowy)  I use my own recipe, loosely based off the Pioneer Woman's recipe

Tuesday - Beef Sliders / Mac and Cheese / Corn

Wednesday -  Ham / Tator Tots / Broccoli

Thursday - Fish / Rice / Green Beans

Friday - Grilled Chicken / Side Salad

Saturday - Stromboli / Pasta 

Sunday - SUPERBOWL Day!  Although this year, we are rather disappointed in the outcome and the teams remaining, it is still a great excuse for yummy food!  My menu isn't completely set, but it will probably include wings, snacks, and sweets!

To see what I got at the store this week, watch below!  I am still of the quest to change up how/ where I shop, but this week my brain couldn't handle any more stress, so I stuck to what I know and love... my dear Target!