Book Review: His Final Answer

Disclaimer: I received a book to review. All opinions are my own. 

I'm a big reader and lately, I've struggled to find things that capture my attention. With Christmas almost here, I've wanted to read things that have more meaning. Don't get me wrong, I like good brain candy with the rest of the world, but sometimes I want more out of the book I'm reading. 

His Final Answer, by Christopher D. White and Jennifer Curran, has given me that. As a first novel for both, the only thing they've left me wanting is more to read. 

From the back cover:

Daniel Pallson is considered by most to have everything one could ask for as one of the wealthiest self-made people in the world, however in reality since he tragically lost his son twenty years ago he has been one of the emptiest. Since then he ha shut most everything out of his life including his wife, extended family, faith in himself, spirituality and all except his successful business. 

A long time American citizen and resident Daniel returns to his native Iceland for a very important business project. While on this trip he suffers a life threatening event that does not allow him to leave the country any time soon. Daniel's only option where to convalesce is at his estranged brother's ranch where they both grew up. Daniel's wife Doris with whom he seperated from years ago also comes from her home in Botston knowing this is a life or death situation. To his complete dismay Daniel must now face not only his own mortality but all he shunned all these years. What is his final answer? 

I'm not going to ruin the book for you, but I will tell you that I was very impressed with the writing. I have a true love for those few writers who can weave words that stick with you and keep you turning pages. Along with the true delight that came with reading His Final Answer, the beautiful illustrations throughout are calming and add an interesting element to the book. 

Such a wonderful journey for this businessman and his family. Definitely a must read!

Enter to win a copy: https://www.blessedfreebies.com/his-final-answer-586814.html

Buy the book: https://bit.ly/hisfinalanswerblogger 

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Tags: #hisfinalanswer #readthis #bookstagram

Zaia: Social Media for a Christian Community

 Disclaimer: This is a paid post. All opinions are my own. 

I don't know about you, but I can get overwhelmed with social media. For me, it's not a need to have a picture-perfect life that gets to me, it's the negativity. I very rarely go to the blue "f" anymore because I leave feeling stressed. People are much more likely to be rude when hiding behind the guise of technology. When I heard about Zaia, I knew it was something I wanted to dive into. 

Zaia has so many wonderful features!

• Zaia aims to bring the 2.6 billion Christians in the world together
• There is a Bible right inside the app!
• Zaia believes we are better together.  The platform is a place to connect and discuss how we can be a light in the world. (Zaia means light)
• Platform is fun and easy to use with text only, image, or video post options (all the features in ONE platform).  Plus you can create private and public groups “Tribes” to connect with others.
• Some people are using it to replace WhatsApp since tribes (groups) have all the same features.
• Finally social media for like-minded hearts! Join this Christian Social Media today!
• Currently available on Apple devices. Hopefully, it will be on Android soon!

follow here: @zaia_app

#zaia #christiancommunity #faithcommunity

Baking Soda Ideas From Our Grandmas

I created a reel with the different ways we use baking soda in our house. These are things that have been used for years and I hope you find a solution you have been looking for. 

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A post shared by Cari | Keep Calm CARI On with homeschool, organizing, and more💡 (@cari_on)            

How To Clean Kids' Tablet Cases

I don't know about you guys, but my kids get their tablet cases disgustingly dirty. (Well, they used to- they have gotten much better as they've gotten older). 

I searched and searched to find out how to clean the foam-like tablet cases (like come with the Kindle Fire Kids Edition). I came up with nothing, so I decided to test things out on my own. It was pretty easy to figure out what to do. 

To start out, I better mention to take the tablet our first because I don't want to be sued. Then, fill your sink with hot water and dish soap (we use Dawn, but it doesn't really matter) and let your tablet cases soak for a few minutes. I usually leave them for about 5 minutes but longer won't hurt anything. 

Then, I sprinkle some baking soda and just carefully wash them. I only say carefully to make sure you get the grooves. The first time I cleaned them, I had to use a toothbrush because the cases were so gunky. It was really simple and now that I got them clean the initial time, it doesn't take nearly as much effort and they look so much better. 

Lay them on a towel to dry completely. I let them dry overnight with the stand open. Make sure they are completely dry before putting them back to use.  

We use screen cleaner wipes to wipe the screens of all of our devices and they work well for the tablets as well. When you clean the cases, you are going to want to use a wipe to get the edge of the screen where the tablet case sits- it gets pretty gunky. 

Good as new!

10 Tips For An Organized Camp Site

Disclaimer: While this post has affiliate links, these are my ideas and opinions. Thank you for supporting this blog.

 

We camped for 9 days earlier in the month. We always get about a week in June to take the kids. Honestly, it's easier to camp with kids for longer stints than just the weekend like Mr. and I did while we were dating and newly married. Over the years, I have implemented things to help keep our campsite organized and functioning well. It really does make for a better experience and more time to make memories. 

Here are some of the things I do to keep us organized while camping: 

1. Each person has a backpack for their personal items. This keeps what we take to a minimum. The backpack is all we have for personal items. Mom and dad also stick with this rule. 

2. We each have one of these drawstring bags. We Keep them beside our beds to keep bathroom bags, flashlights, and other things we need to grab quickly or use a lot. Tbomb puts his lightsaber in his. Snapper puts her crafting things in hers. They both have nerf guns handy. I have my book, flashlight, reading light, and deodorant in mine. It helps keep things handy while keeping the tent floor clear of clutter. (bags here: https://amzn.to/3Vuv1xV)

3. Organize your food. I do this in 2 ways. I have these large fabric flower pots I use. They are similar to shopping bags but sturdier. (find here: https://amzn.to/3RvxdUN). I use 3 of them: snacks, lunches, dinners. The dinner one has a bag for each dinner so I can just grab my ingredients at once. Once again, keeps the tent floor clear of clutter. 

4. While prepping to go camping, I create snack bags for the kids. Each zipper storage bag has 2 poptarts, and 2 of each kind of snack. I make sure there are enough snacks to last all day. Because they are more active while camping, they snack more, so I make sure they have a mix of healthy and fun snacks. There is one bag per day- I grab it when I grab my coffee stuff and put it on the picnic table. They usually divide them up first thing into their own bags. These go in the snack fabric pot. 

5. Have "stations." Like things together. All fishing gear stays together once cleaned up, floats, boogie boards, life jackets, and goggles go in one spot. Other outside toys like water cars, digging stuff, etc goes in a large utility tote. 

6. We use a picnic cooler for all of our meal stuff like plates, cutlery, tablecloths, etc. We're able to leave it sitting on the picnic table bench or under the picnic table and it is always ready to go. We have the Igloo with the fabric top, but I would suggest this one because not only is it another surface, but it is water tight. We had a big rain and water did get in ours- I will replace it with the one above (find here: https://amzn.to/3RpKvSn). 

7. We have 2 pop-up hampers just for camping. One holds our trash bag and we bungee it to the lantern pole. The other goes in the tent with a trash bag for dirty clothes. When we clean up camp, we just take that trash bag out and everything that needs to be washed is ready to be taken care of when we get home. 

8. We put all of our camp set-up items in a plastic storage bin. It has a clothesline, extra tarp, light poles, camp lights, tent stakes/ hammer, toilet, collapsible, etc- all the items we need when we first get to camp and the items that must be stored once we get home. While camping, we can put the tent bag and other items that we only need when putting up and taking down camp. This bin sits outside the tent because it is watertight and has no food in it. 

9. Set up a cooking area. That way, when it is time to cook, everything is ready for you and you are not scrambling. 

10. Hand washing station. This is a big one for us. I put camp-safe soap in an empty hand sanitizer bottle for a backpack- the silicone case allows me to hang it from the spigot. I also hang a hand towel with a bungee from the back of the spigot. We use a neck light wrapped around the pipe for light after dark. 

Every family has different needs, but figuring out a camp setup that works for your family is essential to a peaceful and productive trip. If our camp is not organized, I can't enjoy the time with my family. I hope some of these ideas help your family. 

The Firing Squad

 Disclaimer: I was able to watch this movie for free in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own. 

I just do not have the words for the feels I felt during this movie. Seriously, the tears were pouring down my face. I've forever been a fan of Kevin Sorbo and Cuba Gooding, Jr. However, nothing I've ever seen them in has compared to The Firing Squad. 

This is something that happened in 2015, so it wasn't that long ago. The Firing Squad is a true story of a man convicted of drug trafficking and sentenced to death by firing squad at a prison in Indonesia. He went in an atheist who was also bitter and somewhat entitled. He even tried to escape and was caught. In solitary confinement, as a result of his attempted escape, he found salvation. Because of the change in the man and the faith he exhibited, lives all around him were changed forever. That's all I'm giving away. It is such a great movie that you must see. 

Tim Chey, the directory and screenwriter urges us to participate in the 1 Million Souls to Jesus campaign and I'm all about it. Please share this movie, get some tickets, take people, pray, and witness to all you can. Let's make heaven crowded!

Be sure to check the website because there will actually be some free screenings in some cities- your city might be included! (https://bit.ly/FiringSquadMovieBloggers) 

#thefiringsquad #christianfilm #summerblockbuster #movienight @firingsquadfilm  

FB Page: @TheFiringSquadMovie

Our Favorite Educational YouTube Channels

We use YouTube a good bit in school. Not only for diving deeper into lessons and for Classical Conversations, but I have a new rule for the kids. If they want to watch their favorite YouTube channels (usually gaming stuff), then they have to watch something educational as well. 

So, here are our favorites:

1. Brave Wilderness (Tbomb loves watching Coyote Peterson)

2. Nature At Your Door (Frank Taylor is wonderful)

3. Peekaboo Kids (We love Dr. Binocs for science)

4. PBS Kids (Snapper loves Wild Kratts)

5. Crash Course (Great for history)

6. The Kratt Brothers

7. Homeschool Pop

8. Learn Bright

40

Today is my 40th birthday. I'm camping with my family, so I'm going to make this post short-ish. I just wanted to share 5 things I've realized in the last year that I will be doing more of in the future. 

This picture was taken about 6 years ago. It is one of my favorites. I was still growing my hair out after shaving it off when my MIL lost hers to chemo. My fearless youngest had climbed up to the top of the play place and couldn't figure out how to get back down. Her brother is scared of heights and didn't want to go get her. What does mom do? Goes and gets her. What does granny do? Snap a picture. I'm so grateful for her thinking to do that because I cherish it. 

That leads me to the first thing I've realized. 

1. Be in the pictures. Set up a tripod, give the camera to someone else, hire a photographer for events. How you do it doesn't matter, just get in those pictures with your kids. It doesn't matter what you look like. That smile you have when spending time with your kids makes you beautiful. 

2. Let it go. Does it really matter in the grand scheme of things? No? Let it go. Very little does matter in the great picture. 

3. Don't worry about posting everything. I know for some of us, it is our job, but there should be just as much time with our kids away from the phone. I've taken the majority of the last year sharing very little because I've been enjoying my kids. I haven't even taken as many pictures as usual. 

4. Stop and kiss your husband. Life gets crazy and we spin around each other. Take a moment, stop, look him in the eye, and kiss him. You'll never regret doing it, but you may regret not doing it. 

5. Tell people how much you love them. My dad died recently and I was so grateful that I never got off the phone or left him without saying "I Love You." Its something I grew up doing, but that doesn't minimize the meaning. Yes, its habit; but its habit because it is true. Even though I always told him, I still worry that he didn't know how I really felt, but at least he knew I loved him. 

You may have thought this was an organizing tips post, but I just wanted to share real-life things I've learned. Hopefully, you have already learned these things and this post is senseless, but if not- trust my words and don't wait. 

Creating a Packing List With Google Keep (Simplest Way EVER!)

If you read my series on switching to digital planning, then you know I have become obsessed with Google Keep. 

I'm continuously finding new ways for Google Keep to make my life easier. For instance, I have now made all of our travel lists digital. 

I have two separate labels for travel in my notes. One is for camping. The other is just "travel." 

In the travel section, I also have a list for emergencies (hospital stays). 

I'll go into organizing my camping lists in another post, but I just wanted to show that the lists can be created any way you want- I have them organized by container for camping. 

For this post, I'm going to focus on my "travel" section. I have a few notes "pinned" that are strictly prep lists and the emergency list. 

These are all the things I need to do before a trip and things I need to buy. If you'll notice, there is also a list of things to do in the morning before we leave and things to refill after a trip, like travel placemats and check the first aid kit. 

The unpinned notes are things that need to be packed, as well as some notes about when we have house guests. I'll probably move the house guests notes to a different section eventually. 

My lists are organized by what container/ bag it goes in. If it is just a weekend trip, which is what we usually do, we only have a cooler, a backpack for each person, and a large tote for family things like the first aid kit and snacks. 

You can organize this to what suits your family and situation the best. Creating the list is really simple once you know what to do. 

1. On the left side, click EDIT LABELS and add your travel label
2. Navigate to that TRAVEL label on the left side. 
3. At the top, click TAKE A NOTE and you will get the note box. 
4. You can title your note if you want. 
5. To get checkboxes, click the 3 dots on the bottom right of the note and click SHOW CHECKBOXES
6. To change the color, click the color palate and choose a color or image for the background. This is great for color coding by the person as well. 
7. IF you want to share this note with someone (sending my son's packing list to him), just click the person+ button and enter the email address. 
8. Click CLOSE and your note is saved. 

You can check items off as you go and there is even an option to check all boxes or uncheck all boxes. When I get finished with one list, I deselected all the boxes and archived them. Once I'm done with the trip, I go through and unarchive all those notes and I've got a fresh packing list. 

If you need certain things with one particular trip, it is easy to add a note and then delete it when you are finished. 

You can also add images and drawings. Want to save a picture of your hotel information? Just upload it at the TAKE A NOTE section. Taking a road trip and have how you are packing your car planned out? Draw that out right in Google Keep or upload the image. 

In our Camping section, I have a map of our favorite campground uploaded and circled our favorite sites for quick reference.

It is so much easier to edit these notes than to have to start fresh because you forgot to add something, scribble things, redraw, reprint, and all the other things that come with paper lists. 

My kids love digital tools, so they get excited when I send them a note through Google Keep for them to start packing. It is also fostering independence and showing them organizational skills first hand. 

Camping With Teens & Tweens

My husband and I have camped together since we started dating. Because we both grew up camping, it was natural for us. We always knew we would have little ones following us around the campsite one day and we did. Now, we have big ones that get tired of it quickly because they don't know what to do with themselves. 

While my husband and I love primitive camping, we usually stay in a campground with the kids. We've only done an overnight primitive camp with the kids. We like to take them to the local campground (not far from home) for at least a week at the beginning of June. We also like to squeeze in any other trips we can. 

With the kids being 10 and 13 this year, they get bored and whine much easier and it becomes much less enjoyable for mom. Plus, screens are only allowed at bedtime and on rainy days when we are camping. The only exception to this is they are allowed to take pictures and listen to music with their phones. 

This year, I've decided to be proactive and find things ahead of time to keep them out of my hair when they decide to teen/ tween whine at me. Luckily, they both still like Legos, so that is still an option and I will make sure they take some along. 

1. Last year, they forgot Nerf guns and light sabers and I definitely heard about it. This year, it is already on the list. They had better not forget them. They can shoot each other to their hearts' content. They just don't know that dad has one too that is small enough to fit in his pocket. [tip: buy cheap bright colored foam darts so that it isn't a big deal if they get lost, but they are also much easier to find]

2. I found a really cool selfie scavenger hung from Crazy Outdoor Mama that I have printed already and they will get in their "surprise" bags. 

3. In the past, we've gotten them a new toy or stuffie for the longer camping trips. We're doing it differently this year. I made surprise bags with the next book in the series they are each reading, fun light sticks, a craft for each, a small activity book, and NERDS. (Always the NERDS)

4. I also included a beach blanket/ tarp and paracord in their surprise bags and their dad has fire starters for them to practice with. They will be learning some survival skills this year. 

5. Does your teen eat every waking moment, or is that just mine? This year I made them a snack bag for each day. This is more for me than them- I don't have to make sure they aren't going through all the snacks in the first 2 days. They have plenty for the day in their bag and it is up to them to make sure it lasts. This is on top of breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Don't worry- they run it off. 

6. We read for 20 minutes every day and have 1 hour of quiet time every day. They can fish, read a book, or play independently. What they can't do is bug mom. I usually read a book in the tent or take a nap. They know Dad is right there for them. 

7. We like to take walks and see what interesting things we can find. Sometimes it is a crane hunting his food and sometimes it is a funny sign at another campsite. It's always a good time. 

8. They fish, bodyboard, ride scooters, and look forward to meeting new friends. 

It isn't hard to camp with teens and tweens, it just takes some prep in this digitally-driven age. It doesn't have to be expensive to find activities to keep them busy or cost anything at all. Everything can come from home. This is just what we do. It is also helping to teach them to prepare themselves- I include their input in packing and require them to pack their own backpacks (I just give them a list). 

Take those kids camping and have fun! 

Tween Summer Must-Haves + Mom's Suggestions

These are seriously the things my daughter loves for the summer or has been begging for. No affiliate links or sponsored links. 

I'm ready for summer and so is the beach bum of the family. We never stop learning, our learning venue does. We'll soon be camping for almost 2 weeks right on the lake (seriously the most beautiful lakefront campsite ever) and it cannot be soon enough. My summer girl is excited beyond belief. In honor of her excitement, love of the water, and all-around beach bumminess, I wanted to share these tween must-haves for the summer inspired by my 10-year-old Snapper. 

1. My kids have these walkie-talkies and even the 13-year-old loves them. They're small and lightweight. We love that they are bright and rechargeable. The extra color plates are wonderful as well. We have 2 pink and 2 green. Each kid has one at home and one in their travel bag. Fun everywhere. Find here

2. These are the most fun Nerf Darts. You can write a secret message and shoot it at your sibling. We've bought several of these packs just because they are so fun. They may be the "girl" line, but even the boy likes them. (Extra points for easy to find outside). Find here

3. We are definitely a Blistex family and keep it everywhere. I find it stashed all over the place. The medicated is my go-to but what tween girl doesn't love a fruit-flavored smoothie- especially one that is constantly dreaming of being in Hawaii. Find here 

4 Snapper is dying for a packable waist bag so that she's never without one and doesn't forget to pack it. This one from 4monster is a decent price and has fun colors. Find here

5. Snapper got a glitter ponytail trucker hat as her Easter basket and loves it. It's the first hat she'll willingly wear- even in the sunshine. This sequin one is fun too. Find here

6. This is the best travel pillow. Both kids have one and Snapper loves her unicorn one. It is super easy to blow up without a pump and even has a cushion so you aren't sleeping on and hearing the squeak of the plastic. We've tried many for them and these are the first that they actually like. Find here

7. Since I don't let her draw on herself with Sharpies (how rude of me) Snapper wants these temporary tattoo markers from Bic. Yes, I would let her use these. Find here

8. We love hair chalk in the summer and I was surprised at how easy it is to wash out of Snapper's curly hair. I love the colors included in this set. Find here

9. She saw this Mermaid highlights book (loves hidden pictures) and loved the bright colors. She doesn't know yet that I've included it in her camping surprise bag. Find here

10. Snapper isn't ready for a scooter upgrade yet (she still loves hers with the doll carrier) but she will be soon. We will get her this one because her brother has the camo version and it has lasted longer than any other scooter we've bought and we've bought a lot. It is sturdy enough for adults to use and the big wheels make it perfect for gravel and grass/ dirt. They always take scooters to the campground and this one is easy to travel with. It folds up nicely. Find here

I'm not going to add two things to the list.

1. Cooling blanket (snapper has this one)- the one the kids have is cooling on one side but it is like a regular thin blanket on the other side making it perfect for camping and travel. It is lightweight and we even have a couple for the dogs. 

2. Junk Journal/ Smash book. Snapper has just started her journey with these because she loves to keep moments and I was tired of them ending up everywhere, so we came to an agreement. It has to fit between the pages of a journal. She has this zip-around cover that we've added pockets and paper to. The zipper allows her to put things inside to keep up with until she makes a page and also allows her to keep her supplies inside. A mini thermal sticker printer (like this one) is a fun addition.

What is your tween into? What adventures are they looking forward to?

5 Easy End-of-Year Celebrations for Homeschoolers

We have just a few days left of our "regular" school year and then we take a break for camping. After our break, we have simple summer studies, basically reviews on the computer. Like others, our learning never actually stops. We just like to have a clear end-of-year for our "formal" (as formal as they get) studies. 

We like to celebrate. However, I like to keep it much simpler than our back-to-school celebration. I don't want my kids to associate being done with school with celebrating. I want them to celebrate life, which is why we celebrate everything- even the end of a "formal" school year and the beginning. 

Here are some ideas for simple celebrations- to mark the milestones, yet not go overboard, so we recognize that learning happens everywhere and anytime. 

1. S'mores and sparklers in the driveway. I mentioned that we love to celebrate life. Well, part of that is that we keep s'mores fixin' and sparklers on hand just because they are fun. If a kid accomplishes something they have worked hard towards, bring them out. Did mom get a new client? Bring them out. Do we just need a pick-me-up? S'mores and sparklers to the rescue. We like to do this in the driveway so the kids' great-grandmother can join in. 

2. Donuts for breakfast the first "non-school" morning. Well, we like to do pop-tarts because the kids are rarely allowed them for breakfast because there is so much sugar in them. (they are allowed on very special occasions- the first day of summer, birthdays, camping, and traveling). 

3. Take treats to the library. Why not let your kids treat the librarians who have helped them all year. I'm sure those at the local library would love to celebrate with your kids and it is a great way to thank them for their hard work. 

4. On the same note, a service project is a great way to celebrate the end of the school year. We like to gather blankets, clothing, and books we no longer need, as well as surplus toiletries. We take them to our local homeless shelter. Items for children are in high demand because many people don't think about kids being in a homeless shelter. It is also a great way to teach kids to be thankful. (Note: our local homeless shelter does not allow anyone in besides residents and there is a big privacy fence around the playground. I understand the reason for this, but the kids don't actually see who they help. However, the director always comes out and talks with them and lets them know how much it is appreciated.)

5. Spend the day together laughing and having fun. Nothing special has to happen. Your kids are going to remember the laughs and the silliness more than anything. A movie day, a day at the park, a day outside together, and a walk through the woods are all ways that my kids enjoy celebrating. They like the idea of having mom (and dad) to themselves without having to complete a list of things. 

Keep that in mind when planning celebrations. Your kids are going to remember your time together more than anything. Enjoy your kids- that is the best way to celebrate. 

Kids and Their Dreams

Growing up, my mom always told me: "If your dreams don't scare you, you aren't dreaming big enough." I really believe that. From a very young age and even though my dreams and goals changed, we would discuss how to accomplish them and what I could do then to work towards those dreams. She would sign me up for certain classes at the camp I went to, find classes at school that would help me, and even go to workshops together that were related to my dreams. 

I try to do the same with my own kids. 

Both of my kids have huge dreams. Snapper is 10 and dreams of being a marine biologist who not only educates people on misunderstood animals like pangolins and invents things to help animals. 

Tbomb is 13 and he dreams of being a paleontologist and adventurer. He wants to travel the world hiking and camping while looking for dinosaur bones and bigfoot. He wants to develop games in his travel time. 

These dreams may seem big, but that's a good thing. Why can't they both accomplish those things? 

I realized that Tbomb only has 5 more summers before he is an adult. He could be hiking the Appalachian trail in just 5 years. That is not that far off. 

I decided that since he will be starting 8th grade this year, we will also be working towards goals. He'll start learning different survival and hiking skills. He's already asked for a Hammock and trekking poles for his birthday in September. He's excited because he can actually try out gear on our property. He can hike all over the place and try things out. 

At the same time, he will be learning first aid, firemaking, shelter building, and whatever else he shows an interest in. This summer, he will be focusing on navigation because he received a nice compass for his watch in his easter basket. 

I'll be happy to share the journey here and hope you follow along. 

10 Things To Do Before Summer Break

I may be with my kids all the time since I homeschool them, but I look forward to our summers together just like other moms. I want to make the most of our summers together. After all, they don't last forever. 

There are a few things that I do every year before we end our school year so that we can have the most fun with our time and spend as much time together as possible. 

1. Finish projects. I always try to finish up any projects I'm working on.  This year, I actually finished planning our 2024-2025 school year so that I do not have to do it this summer when I could be outside enjoying my family. I also try to finish up any organizational projects I'm working on. 

2. Get the kids organized. We spend the last couple of weekends before we finish school purging bedrooms and making sure the systems in place work. That way, the rooms do not get out of hand over the summer. While you are doing this, make sure you are caught up on laundry (my nemesis) and try to do laundry whenever there is a full load over the summer. 

3. Get an "adventure bag" ready. While my kids' travel backpacks stay packed and they just have to add a few things in for travel and day trips, mom is a little different. I just get what I need. This year, I'm changing that. I have a bag ready for myself that I can grab and go- with a picnic blanket, small first aid kit, sunscreen, hat, towel (you never know when those kids will find a creek), and other things I may need on crazy adventures. When we went to the drive-in, it was the perfect time to test my bag and the kids' bags. Just make sure you leave room for snacks and cool sticks they may find.

4. Have quick recipes on hand. Make a list of 10 or so easy dinner recipes that you can use throughout the summer, along with your normal quick meals. Although it is fun to get in the kitchen and cook with the kids, who wants to spend all summer in the kitchen?!

5. Get all the outdoor fun ready- Clean the fire pit, get your outdoor seating done, and get the s'mores basket ready. All that stuff. Have it ready for the fun to begin. 

6. Get the dogs' vet visits done. Now, you can take Rover with you on all your adventures with no worries. 

7. Don't forget to get your car serviced, cleaned, and stocked for summer fun. New hand sanitizer, tissues, and organized for family fun. 

8. Get a list of ideas and supplies ready for fun at home. Maybe you need to get some work done or maybe you just want to spend the day in the house. That's ok too. Some ideas of fun things to do (can be as simple as a coloring book) can help you when trying to come up with something on the spot. 

9. Look at your calendar. Go ahead and mark the days that you have to do things and then look at your community calendar. Pencil in some events that you might be interested in taking the kids to. It's always nice to have options. 

10. Get excited! Seriously. Are there any better humans on this planet than your kids and spouse? Get excited about all the fun times you will have together and make every day an adventure- at home or on the go!

Paperless Planning: Part 5- Google Docs

Google Docs is not a must-have for digital planning, but it is a wonderful tool. Plus, it is free to use and if you have Gmail, you already have access to it. 

Google Docs gives you access to Sheets (similar to spreadsheets), Docs (word processor), Slides (slideshow), and even PDFs. There are also a ton of add-on resources that you can use for free or with subscriptions. 

I use Google Docs mostly for school planning. However, If I do need a document for a personal reason, I no longer have to keep up with a paper copy. I can scan it and have a digital copy with access anywhere. Again, this is another tool that can be set to be used offline. 

In this post, the only thing I'm going to show is how to add a file and how to set it up for the best view. 

To add a file (tax document, school paperwork, doctor notes, etc.), simply click the +New button on the left side and select File Upload or the type of file you want to create. 

The other thing I want to show today is how to set up the view. (I'll go more in-depth on using Google Docs for school files in another post)

Normally, when you go to Google Docs, the default is to show all the files. However, if you want to see your folders when you go to Google Docs, it is a really simple change. 

Click the gear icon at the top right and click settings. Under "Start Page," switch to "My Drive" and you will have the same view I do. 

I'll revisit Google Docs in a future post. 

What I'm using and how I'm using them. (just click on the link below to see the post)

1. How and why I got started (you are here)
2. Google Calendar 
3. Google Tasks
4. Google Keep
5. Google Docs

Paperless Planning: Part 4- Google Keep

 

Although it isn't a new tool, Google Keep is also a new discovery for me and I use it constantly. I use it for packing lists, school to-do lists, school ideas, blog post planning, family projects, and anything else that I would have written out and stuck in my planner. 

Getting Google Keep set up was a little more involved because I was basically converting both my personal and school planners to digital. Here is what I did: 

1. Set up categories that you are likely to use. I used family, school, camping, travel, blog, and recipes. 
2. I started with my personal planner and went through it page by page- adding everything to my Google Keep in the appropriate categories. No more recipes floating around and getting lost. Packing lists all together (more about this later). 
3. Color coding is easy using the controls at the bottom of each note. Easily add checkboxes by clicking the three dots at the bottom of the not and click add checkboxes. 
4. Repeat this for all planners and all sections. Before you know it, you will have a digital planner/ notebook. 

You can add photos. I've added the map of our favorite campground with our favorite sites marked so I know which ones to look for when I book our camping. 

I wish you could customize the colors used, but it's a minor sacrifice for the convenience of Google Keep, which you can use on any device. As long as it has been synced with the internet, it is available offline too. When you reach the internet, it will update any changes. 

You can also archive notes to be used again later and there is also an option to uncheck all items. 

I'm a list maker, but you do not have to use a list format. You can actually write paragraphs, add websites with the link preview, and add drawings. 

As Tbomb goes into the 8th grade this year, I've been thinking a lot about high school. I also have a running list of things to utilize once we get to high school. 

Another wonderful thing about Google Keep is that you can easily share notes with others. Add your family group or individuals. I love being able to share a to-do list with my kids, especially when getting ready for travel. 

Of the tools I've learned to use, Google Keep is my favorite. I'm a huge fan of notes and lists and this keeps me on track. 

How do you use Google Keep? 

What I'm using and how I'm using them. (just click on the link below to see the post)

1. How and why I got started (you are here)
2. Google Calendar 
3. Google Tasks
4. Google Keep
5. Google Docs

Paperless Planning: Part 3- Google Tasks

 

Google Tasks is a fairly new tool for me. Like the other tools I have shared and will share, Google Tasks is available through all devices. It syncs seamlessly with Google Calendar. It can also work alongside Google Keep (easily move notes from Keep to Google Tasks). 

I love how my tasks show up beside my calendar. There are also wonderful widgets available for tablets and phones that make it quick to see what you need to do, check off items, and even add items to your task list. 

You can also add categories to your tasks, like I have my personal one, ideas for blog posts, ideas for social media posts, and even a business one, although most of my todos go in my personal tasks just so I can see them at a glance. 

When creating a task, you can easily schedule it for a certain date and time. You can also make recurring tasks. For instance, I have a task set for every Friday evening to look over and gather the materials for the next week's school work. 

I put everything on my task list- even changing the litter box and making the kids' lunches and snacks for the next day. I tend to get sucked into a project and forget to do things. With Google Tasks, I can get reminders to do those things I have to do every day. 

When you check the items off, there is a counter at the bottom that tells you how many tasks you have completed. Makes you feel really good if you are like me and love marking things off of a list. 

Is there something you need to remember to take care of in August, like planning the kids' birthday party? You can set Google Tasks to remind you on August 1st. Then, when August 1st gets here, you can break down the tasks into manageable chunks and schedule things. Is this something you need to do every August? Make it a recurring task. 

Adding subtasks is easy as well, although it isn't something I use. I just like to have them all as a separate task. 

How to switch paper lists to Google Tasks: 

1. Gather all your paper lists. For me, it was my planner, notebook, and weekly to-do list.
2. Simply start at the beginning of your lists and add them to Google Tasks. Go through your calendar pages for anything you've written to do on certain months. Make sure to schedule those as well. 
3. Look through your planner and notebooks. Add any to-dos throughout them to your Google Tasks. 

Now you are all set up. Adding things is simple and you don't have to do those steps again. 

Another cool feature of Google Tasks (that I actually do not use) is that your tasks can be added to your calendar. Just click to view tasks on your calendars (left-hand side of the screen). The only reason I don't do this is because I like the view of my tasks in a list together and I don't like how congested my calendar gets with the tasks added in. But everyone has different preferences. 

Now that you have your Google Calendar and Google Tasks set up, you can add tasks from your calendar. Have a meeting next week? Add to prepare notes on your list. 

What I'm using and how I'm using them. (just click on the link below to see the post)

1. How and why I got started (you are here)
2. Google Calendar 
3. Google Tasks
4. Google Keep
5. Google Docs

Paperless Planning: Part 2- Google Calendar

Are you ready to get this ball rolling? I do suggest you make these changes during a slow time because getting the system in place will take time, but it will definitely save time in the future. I started this at the end of our school year, but if I had waited until school was done, it probably would have been a quicker start.

I'm okay with that though, I'm so glad to have made this change in my life. It is so freeing to have less. 

I literally have access to everything at my fingertips. (To see the whole series, read about why I went to digital planning)

Google Calendar is the first thing you are going to want to get set up. You probably already use it in some capacity. I did, I just am using it more now. Yet, still not to its full potential. All you have to do is sign in to your Google account and you are ready to dive in. 

First, you are going to want to create your calendars within your account. You can see mine on the left column. They are color-coded. You can share these calendars with others- teammates, family members, committee members, etc. I share the family calendar and Owl Creek Academy (our homeschool) with my kids. They are new to this, but I'm getting them started. You can share family calendars with grandparents and other close family members as well. 

Next, you are going to want to put all your dates from your planner in here. While doing this, go ahead and put in the recurring dates (birthdays, anniversaries, etc). You can invite people to these "events" as well. Make sure you assign them to the correct calendar so they are automatically shared and/or color-coded. You can set up alerts as well. (I only do this for project due dates). 

I love that you can choose the view for your Google Calendar- day, week, month, year, 7 days, and even a view of events in order (schedule). You can choose for your week to start and end on any day you choose as well. 

Hint: If you want all events/ appointments to appear in a box at the top of the week view and In a colored box in the month view, I have figured out how to do this and still use the time. If you'll notice in the picture above, I had to scroll down to see that my son had a class on coding and that I had a meeting. 

In the below image, you can see that if you format the time differently, it will show up as an all day event so it is easily spotted. 

This may not work for people who use the time layout to schedule things. However, we need to keep a more relaxed schedule because things come up. I need to see at a glance if there is an appointed time for something that day, without needing to scroll. 

If you have a more strict schedule, you could even block off time for school, sports, work, etc. No matter your way of life, you can make it work for you. 

I have even created one calendar to track my steps because I like the visual of it- I was writing it on my monthly paper planner, so now I just record it in my Google Calendar. 

Another thing of note. You do not have to have access to the internet to use Google Calendar, only to sync it between devices and online. For instance, if you are in a remote area, you can still add things to your calendar on your phone and it will automatically update it to the cloud when you are in range again. 

There are also fun premade Google Calendars that you can subscribe to. I use the US Holidays & Observances calendar by Google, but copy them to my family calendar so my kids can see them and we don't celebrate every "holiday." I also have a bible reading plan calendar that is added in. 

I know this seems like a lot, but it will be much better and easier once the setup is complete. 

Go ahead and get your calendar out. Copy those dates from paper to digital, making sure to select a calendar and record recurring events. 

Next up, I'll show you hot to track chores and to do lists. It is so easy and right there on your calendar!

What I'm using and how I'm using them. (just click on the link below to see the post)

1. How and why I got started (you are here)
2. Google Calendar 
3. Google Tasks
4. Google Keep
5. Google Docs