Back to school happens this week for us, and I couldn’t be more excited. This year, I will be at the same school my children attend. I am looking forward to getting to ride to and from school together, among many other things.

This year, we have set goals to be more efficient and less stressed. Our goals for the new school year are as follows:

1. Prepare as much as possible the night before

We usually intend to do this. And we are usually in the car, getting ready to back out of the driveway, and someone tells, “WAIT! I forgot something!” And then we end up being late.

This year, I want us to really commit to getting ready the night before: water bottles filled, lunches packed, clothes laid out, and dance bags ready. I want to eliminate the running late, stress, and grumbling at each other because we are late.

2. Eat at home more and order takeout less

For a while, I was really good about meal planning and cooking….but then we got busy and I got off track. I’ve gotten back into meal planning, and I’m working toward easy meals I can cook in the crock pot or the air fryer to simplify things. I’m still working on it, so when I feel more confident, I’ll share some ideas. If you have any great crock pot or air fryer recipes, I’d love to hear them.

3. Balancing household duties with work, family, and exercise

We, like most families, cram a lot of activities in our day to day lives. I want to become better at keeping the house clean, while juggling everything else. My house is very clean when I am not working, but when school is back in session, it suffers. I’m working on a few different methods, and I’m looking for one that works for us.

I have started and neglected two different Bible studies this year. I’d like to find one that sticks and enjoy it. I’m still doing my daily quiet times but I almost feel as though I’m in a rut. I plan to do a family devotional this school year during breakfast, but I need to find something meaningful for my own quiet time. I’m actively looking for one, but I’m very much open to suggestions as well.

How are you getting ready for the upcoming school year?