So, this fall marks a whole year since I moved into my apartment. Let me tell ya, it has been an empowering feeling! Between making this place comfortable, handling school, and keeping up with motherhood. It has been challenging at times!
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| Photo by Brandy Kennedy on Unsplash |
However, one of the best parts of it all has been adding my personal touch to the space. From finding the perfect decor pieces to getting a cleaning routine down, it is amazing to finally have a place to fully relax and make memories with my kids. It is my own 73-degree oasis amidst the chaos!
Personalizing and Making My Place Cozy
Getting my apartment more in my aesthetic has been on my to-do list. It's crazy how you never realize how much it costs to decorate until you find something that perfectly matches your taste and you're on a tight budget. I've been browsing home decor stores online and in person, looking for colorful throw pillows, incense, and art pieces that reflect my style and personality.
There is nothing quite like lighting some incense after a good clean-up, making my space smell and feel fresh. I prefer to stay on top of things. I've also set up a weekly cleaning schedule. Whether it comes to vacuuming, wiping down surfaces, or doing laundry, keeping my apartment tidy helps me stay focused and calm throughout the week.
Keeping Up with Groceries & Meal Planning
Grocery shopping has become a thing that must last me and my kids for at least two weeks. I stock up on healthy ingredients for my children and me. Cooking dinner at home at least three times a week is a goal I'm shooting for. From simple pasta dishes to quick air fry meals, I keep it basic but delicious. My kids' health is a top priority. There's something special about sharing a home-cooked meal at the end of each day. On the other nights, we might have leftovers or whip up I may order out and get pizza, giving me more time for other things.
The Nighttime Routine
Evenings have become a super special time in my apartment. After throwing down in the kitchen, it's shower time for my kids and me. I make sure they get all clean, moisturized, and cozy in bed before it's my turn to wash my body. Taking care of myself is a must. I love a relaxing shower. Then I moisturized and did my oral and facial care. Lastly, I try to have a little peace before hitting the hay. Feeling fresh and pampered after a long day makes all the difference in how I start the next one.
Balancing College and Late Nights
Being back in college has given me more to look forward to. It's a constant juggling act, but I'm determined to keep my head above water.
Every night from 9 to 11 pm, I go into full-on study mode. It's my designated time to grind—whether I am writing papers or diving into course materials. It's not always easy. However, I've found it's the best way to stay on top of everything.
After I've conquered my schoolwork, I make time for myself. Sometimes that means catching up on my favorite shows or binge-watching YouTube videos. Other times, I curl up with a good book or try to ease myself in for the night with a movie. It's my way of unwinding and reconnecting with myself before I hit the hay.
A Year of Growth & Thankfulness
Living on my own for the first time has been a rewarding time. I have learned a lot about who I am and how I like my space to be while I am in it. I'm juggling school, being a mom, taking care of myself, and keeping my apartment in shape. I've found that having routines—like meal planning, cleaning, and nighttime self-care—keeps me sane.
Looking ahead to the rest of the fall, I'm so grateful for my apartment, the lessons I've learned, and all the rest that is still to come. Here's to cozying up on my sofa or bed, cooking good ole meals, and making the most of my time as a student, mom, and goal digger.
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