We’re only about month into the school year, but I can honestly say that this year has been a year like no other for me…in a very good way. My kids are getting to school early, the grades coming home have been fabulous, and I’ve been more productive than ever before. And while I thought I was the only one that noticed it, friends of mine are starting to notice too. It’s been kind of amazing. But really, it’s just been a series of little changes that have made a huge difference. Here’s what I’m doing differently this year:
Setting My Alarm Earlier – I’ll be the first to tell you how much I hate mornings, but setting my alarm just 10 minutes early has drastically changed my day. It gets my kids up a little earlier, gets us out the door a little earlier, and gets them into their class rooms earlier, which gives me more time to accomplish my goals during the day. In the past they’ve resisted when I get them up earlier, but with it only being a 10 minute difference, it doesn’t even hit their radar.
The Most Important Meal of the Day – As a busy mom, I often put myself last. I get the kids off to school, I do the grocery shopping, run errands, prep for the next day, and about 20 other things before I even consider breakfast…only to look at the clock and realize that it’s already afternoon. The result is skipping breakfast, overeating at lunch, and crashing later in the day. Making time for breakfast means I’m more productive throughout the entire day.
Luckily I found Dannon® Light & Fit® 4 packs at Walmart. They’re completely portable fruit flavors that you can shake up for balanced nutrition for on the go. Containing 9 grams of protein, 90 calories, 0 added sugar, and 0% fat they are a smart way to start your day, and right now there’s even a $1.00 rebate on Ibotta. I don’t let my kids skip breakfast, so why should I? These yogurt drinks are perfect for busy moms like me!
Packing More Protein into My Day – Recently, I took a long hard look at what I was eating and I wasn’t happy about what I saw – too many empty meals and nowhere near enough protein. I was hungry all. the. time. So in addition to adding Dannon® Light & Fit® as a breakfast option, I’ve been drinking Dannon® Oikos® Yogurt Drinks for an afternoon snack, after a workout, or any other time I feel like I need a pick me up. Dannon® Oikos® Yogurt Drinks contain 10g of high-quality dairy protein (with live and active cultures), along with being an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D. With Dannon® Oikos® Yogurt Drinks, not only do I avoid a meal that won’t actually fill me up, but I also avoid that afternoon crash that leads to an unproductive evening.
Ditching the Car Line – Oh, my love/hate relationship with the car line… Well, most of it was hate, but there was a little part of me that appreciated the car line for keeping me honest and getting my kids to school on time and starting my day early. But this year? That line was worse than ever (30+ minutes from start to finish), so this year we’re walking. Well, technically, we’re driving to a nearby parking lot, parking, and then walking, but either way, the kids are loving it and they’re getting to school earlier than ever. Plus, every little bit of exercise helps!
Prep for the Next Day as Early as Possible – In the past I’ve tried getting all the kid’s outfits and book bags ready the night before, but typically, by the end of the day I’m exhausted and I don’t even want to think about the next morning. So this year, I’m preparing for the next day when I get home from dropping the kids off at school. I have about 30-60 minutes after dropping the kids off at school before I have to go to work, so I make the most of that time – prepping lunches, laying out outfits, and filling thermoses. By having this all done in the morning, it frees up my evenings after work to help with homework and sit down for dinner.
Have you made any changes this school year that are paying off? Have you ever tried Dannon® Light & Fit® or Dannon® Oikos® yogurt drinks? Leave me a comment letting me know! And don’t forget to look for Dannon® Light & Fit® or Dannon® Oikos® yogurt drinks at your local Walmart (in the yogurt aisle) and save $1 with Ibotta!
