Mom Time in '09: Time Saving Tips

I'm not sure I'm the best qualified for this topic, but I think I do pretty well with organization and family/task management, so let's see what I can come up with...

1. I'm the main chef in the house. Tim's great at offering help, but I usually decline because I've already got things mapped out in my head on what to do and when, and I'm in my groove. But I say 'yes' on occasion and it not only makes dinner prep go faster, but it's fun to spend a little time together in the kitchen. So say 'yes' on occasion when your husband offers help.

2. Double freezer-friendly foods, for dinner that night and a fast dinner later in the month. There are days I DO NOT want to cook. That's when I go to the freezer. Soups, casseroles, breads, etc all freeze great. Here are a few of our favorite recipes that are freezer friendly: Chipotle Macaroni & Cheese, Easy Veggie Chili and Cornbread Muffins, Banana Bread, 4-Cheese Stuffed Shells and Lentil Stew.

3. Do the small things right away. Make the bed when you get out of it in the morning, put your dirty dishes in the dishwasher right after dinner, etc. Taking 30 seconds or 2 minutes right when you think of something that needs doing, will save you future time in thinking about it, dreading it, and feeling unorganized.

4. Make a list for yourself. I keep multiple lists, but not too many that I feel disorganized. My lists are as follows: grocery shopping, other misc shopping, menu plan for the week, and to-dos. This keeps me on track and feeling accomplished. I can relax at the end of a day when I know I've been productive and have been able to take a lot off my to-dos.

The above seems basic. But they're all easy not to do, or to procrastinate, or to fall into alternate bad habits. Keep on track and you will save time and feel good about your days.

I'm looking forward to hearing the tips other bloggers give! Everyone has room for improvement.

Click here to go to Jolly Mom, and here to visit Go Graham Go! for more 'time saving tips'.