Ask PPF: Daily Routine

I know my husband will laugh when he reads this because I have been hitting the snooze button far too much lately.  But, I really believe the key to a non-stressful morning is setting the alarm to wake up earlier than my kids.  This gives me time to start my coffee, make my daughter’s lunch, have my quiet time & get myself ready before I need to make their breakfast.  On days I don’t do this, I am rushed & stressed and feel like I’m off to a bad start.

When I am just running errands, I try to keep it simple and quick (makeup: foundation & powder, blush, lipgloss & curl my lashes; hair: brush & leave down or put up in a ponytail/bun).  But, if I’m heading to the gym or on nights when I have Zumba, I skip the makeup altogether – because what is the point of putting it on, only to sweat it off?  When we have a playdate or a meeting at the school, I will get completely ready with eye makeup & I’ll curl my hair.

I don’t even attempt to paint my nails when my kids are around because they will inevitably get ruined before they have time to dry.  So, I usually do them when my son is napping or I’ll wait until after dinner when my husband is home & can keep them entertained.  I always have my nails painted, so this is an every 4-5 day activity for me.

Another secret to a smooth morning routine is choosing clothes the night before (I do this with my kids’ outfits too) – this way I don’t have to spend time putting something together in the morning.  I try to pick looks based on what I have planned for that day & what the weather will be.  If I’m running errands, I go with ballet flats or riding boots – but there are times when we’re going to the mall & I’ll think, “I just really want to wear my heels” and I always get blisters regret it.  I usually wear jeans & trousers during the week in the fall/winter, but I prefer dresses & skirts in the spring/summer.