Energize and Organize
  • Welcome
  • About Us
  • Services
    • Home Office Organization
    • Residential Organization >
      • Are You Chronically Disorganized? >
        • Common Characteristics of Chronically Disorganized Individuals
      • Are you Situationally Disorganized?
      • Organizing by Learning and Action Style Preferences
    • Senior Organization
    • Student Organization >
      • Executive Function
      • Improving Your Child's Organizing Skills
      • Organizing by Learning/Sensory Preferences and Action Style Preferences
      • Organization and Time Management Strategies for Kids with L.D.
      • Student Organizing Tips - Internet Resources
  • Gallery
  • FAQ
  • Resources
    • Charitable Donation Information
    • Decisions, Decisions, Decisions ... To Keep or Not to Keep?
    • Green Tips from NAPO-New England Professional Organizers
    • Insightful Education Websites for Children and Students with All Kinds of Abilities
    • Inspirational Organizing Quotes
    • Interesting Readings
    • Junk Mail and Telemarketing Phone Call Reduction Resources
    • Miscellaneous Organizational Tips
    • NAPO Code of Ethics
    • NAPO-NE Tips for Adopting Green Organizing and Celebrating Earth Day
    • NAPO-NE Tips for Practical Ways to Get Organized
    • Outstanding Professional Organizer Websites
    • Organizing Product Stores
    • Resale Information
  • Testimonials/In the News
    • Testimonials
    • In the News
  • Contact
  • Blog

Energize and Organize:  Simply Your Summer:  A Flow First Guide for Moms Who Do It All

6/19/2025

 
Picture
Simplify Your Summer:  A Flow First Guide
​ for Moms Who Do It All
​Guest Post:  Estela Garcia

​www.afreshlightstart.com
Summer’s almost here—and while the sunshine is welcome, let’s be honest: when school lets out, the structure flies out the window. Suddenly, your calm(ish) morning routine is replaced with snack requests, screen-time negotiations, and the constant sound of “Mommmm!” echoing through the house. 

We love our kids endlessly—but let’s not pretend that summer doesn’t flip our days upside down. The truth is, without a bit of intention, this beautiful season can slide into pure chaos.   But it doesn’t have to. 

What if you could protect your peace, stay productive (in a real-life way), and still make room for spontaneous summer memories? Let’s ditch the pressure to do it all—and create a gentle summer flow that supports both your family and your sanity. 


Forget the Perfect Schedule—Find Your Summer Flow 
When summer starts, it’s tempting to plan the perfect calendar—color-coded schedules, Pinterest-worthy activity lists, and maybe even daily themes. But real talk? That’s a fast track to burnout. 

Instead, try choosing one anchor activity per day—maybe a trip to the library, the splash pad, or grandma’s house. Let the rest of the day unfold without pressure. Kids aren’t in structure mode, and honestly, neither are you. 
Pro Tip: One anchor activity = less chaos, more freedom. 


Burn the Energy Early (Especially for Toddlers) 
Morning energy is real. If you’ve got littles, aim to get outside early—whether that’s a stroller walk, a backyard bubble fest, or a park playdate. 
Pro Tip:  Early movement = calmer afternoons (and maybe even a nap for both of you). 



​Help Older Kids Stay Social 
School naturally provides social time. Summer? Not so much. And when older kids feel isolated, everyone feels it. 
Here’s what helps: 
  • Rotate playdates with other families. 
  • Sign up for a few weeks of camp (even half-days can be magic). 
  • Create a standing “hangout day” with a neighbor or cousin. 
Pro Tip:  Think of it as outsourcing some entertainment, allowing you to reclaim a little mental space. 


Simplify Your Chores: One Task a Day 
Let go of the 50-line to-do list. Instead, let your home guide you. 
  • Overflowing laundry? That’s today’s priority. 
  • Are crumbs taking over the car? Grab the vacuum and the kids. 
  • Is the fridge a disaster? One shelf at a time. 
And if the kids are around, get them involved—even if it’s just spraying the car with a hose. 
Pro Tip:   One main task a day. Done is better than perfect. 


Protect Your Peace First 
Let’s get real: If you start the day depleted, everything feels heavier. That’s why you need a morning ritual that’s just for you—before the snack requests and sibling squabbles begin: 
  • a quiet cup of coffee before anyone wakes up 
  • a short walk around the block 
  • ten minutes with your book or journal 
  • a treadmill stroll while watching your favorite show 
Pro Tip:  Whatever fills your cup, do it first. 


Batch, Automate, and Delegate (Even to Future You) 
You don’t need to do everything every day. Group similar tasks to save energy: 
  • Check email twice, not 12 times. 
  • Prep snacks in the morning for the whole day. 
  • Pay bills and return calls once a week. 
  • Use subscriptions for essentials like paper towels and snacks. 
Pro Tip:  Delegate what you can. Even if it’s just putting something on your “later list.” 


Declutter Where It Matters Most 
Summer isn’t the time to organize your entire house—but tackling your stress zones? That’s a game-changer. 
Focus on: 
  • the pantry 
  • the fridge 
  • the entryway or mudroom 
  • your car 
These high-traffic areas get messy fast, but a quick 15-minute refresh can make everyday life smoother. And if it feels overwhelming? That’s where pros like me come in. 


Celebrate What You Did, Not Just What You Didn’t 
At the end of the day, don’t beat yourself up about the laundry pile or missed emails.
Instead, ask: 
  • Did I feed people? 
  • Did I show up with love (even if it wasn’t patient love)? 
  • Did I get one thing done? 
  • Did I do something for myself? 
That’s a win. That’s progress. That’s motherhood. 


Final Thought 
Summer doesn’t need to be packed to be meaningful—or perfect to be peaceful. It just needs to be intentional. Simplify where you can. Stay present when it counts. And give yourself permission to enjoy this wild, beautiful, snack-filled season.   You’ve got this. 
And if the clutter starts to creep in? Fear not; outsource to the experts. 

​
Remember if you need organizing assistance and support with your family life, home and/or office, you are cordially invited to contact ...
Donna LaRoche, M.Ed., Professional Organizer, 617.640.2366
Organizing Barnstable, Bourne, Chatham, Dennis, Eastham, Falmouth, Hyannis, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, Orleans, Provincetown, Sandwich, Truro and Yarmouth

Energize and Organize:  Summer Textile Collection

6/16/2025

 
Picture
​Remember if you need organizing assistance and support with your family life, home and/or office, you are cordially invited to contact ...
Donna LaRoche, M.Ed., Professional Organizer, 617.640.2366
Organizing Barnstable, Bourne, Chatham, Dennis, Eastham, Falmouth, Hyannis, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, Orleans, Provincetown, Sandwich, Truro and Yarmouth

Energize and Organize:  Recycling Tips for You and Yours

6/11/2025

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Remember if you need organizing assistance and support with your family life, home and/or office, you are cordially invited to contact ...
Donna LaRoche, M.Ed., Professional Organizer, 617.640.2366
Organizing Barnstable, Bourne, Chatham, Dennis, Eastham, Falmouth, Hyannis, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, Orleans, Provincetown, Sandwich, Truro and Yarmouth

    Archives

    June 2025
    May 2025
    April 2025
    March 2025
    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024
    October 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    April 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    December 2023
    November 2023
    October 2023
    September 2023
    August 2023
    July 2023
    May 2023
    April 2023
    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016

    Categories

    All
    Family Life
    Home
    Office

    RSS Feed

Welcome
About Us
Services
Gallery                                                         
Frequently Asked Questions
Resources
Testimonials
Contact 
Blog
Phone:  617.640.2366

Email:  
 [email protected]


Organizing Barnstable, Bourne, Chatham, Dennis, Eastham, Falmouth, Hyannis, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, Orleans, Provincetown, Sandwich, Truro and Yarmouth    © 2025

Photos from jimmcsweeney jimmcsweeney, walknboston, frankieleon, tdlucas5000, marneejill, Larry Lamsa, Rina Pitucci (Tilling 67), tdlucas5000, wizardofozgurl, Rennett Stowe, kimblomqvist, cote, Hugo-90, likeaduck, jasleen_kaur, wuestenigel, Clint Mason, ЕгорЖуравлёв, dalecruse, tdlucas5000, tdlucas5000, cafecredit, Montgomery County Planning Commission, hellotidy, jerryrauth, Jeffrey Camphens, Rusty Clark ~ 100K Photos, Princess Ruto, Scioto Photos, AcrylicArtist, Bennilover, David Meurin, nahid-v, Eduardo Deboni, Swallowtail Garden Seeds, torbakhopper, avrene, roseannadana, quinn.anya, dalecruse, Bennilover, krossbow, (Imagine) 2.0, fontplaydotcom, Muffet, William_Doyle, tdlucas5000, LadyDragonflyCC - >;<, stockcatalog, David Paul Ohmer, SurFeRGiRL30, TurtleCreek-Branson, ThoroughlyReviewed, dullhunk, Michael Khor, susivinh, Kirt Edblom, anitakhart, zhaffsky, Giuseppe Milo (www.pixael.com), mnapoleon, wuestenigel, The Simpsons (Lee, Shirley, Luke and Rachel), homethods, vijay_chennupati, Gail Frederick, Kurt Stocker, Gail Frederick, (Imagine) 2.0, themostinept, Bennilover, cattan2011, cattan2011, frankieleon, FootMassagez, melissa richards photography, Kirt Edblom, Doolallyally, Topu Saha, Bennilover, tdlucas5000, cattan2011, Bobby McKay., amanessinger, blumenbiene, tnilsson.london, France1978, okchomeseller, ajay_suresh, njhomepictures, dee_dee_creamer, Bennilover, Ravi_Shah, macieklew, Jeffrey Camphens, Goedeker's, kennethkonica, cattan2011, e27182818284, vwcampin, dMaculate, Orchids love rainwater, PLeia2, David Paul Ohmer, ThoseGuys119, scootergenius02, judithjackson957, Scouse Smurf, Feathering the Nest, tdlucas5000, closet factory, cattan2011, Senior Guidance, kennethkonica, watts photos1, tdlucas5000, kennethkonica, Artur Malinowski, vwcampin, ЕгорЖуравлёв, Tobyotter, inbounduk, Diana Parkhouse, Paula R. Lively, tdlucas5000, France1978, Kirt Edblom, Gail Frederick, hellotidy, Digital Magic Photography, Infomastern, kennethkonica, Ani Carrington, spbda, Soupmeister, tdlucas5000, UnknownNet Photography, ancasta1901, wuestenigel (CC BY 2.0), torbakhopper, tdlucas5000, State Farm, Bennilover, marneejill, tdlucas5000, Jeff Kubina, amslerPIX, joiseyshowaa, Angelbattle bros, r.nial.bradshaw, Goedeker's, Antrell Williams, majolie46, symphony of love, wuestenigel, theglobalpanorama, cattan2011, tdlucas5000, pureplanetrecycling, Ruth and Dave, wuestenigel, Rawpixel Ltd, Got Credit, romanboed, Kelly Hunter, kud4ipad, Ozzy Delaney, Doolallyally, MICOLO J Thanx 4, 2.4m views, P_Linehan, taymtaym, steve p2008, mariaronnaluna, Nic's events, DaveCowieMT, Jocelyn777 - Celebrating Europe, Anders Ruff Custom Designs, michaelmueller410, kennethkonica, scriptingnews, Pictures from GTB, CJS*64 "Man with a camera", romanboed, POP'S PIC'S, judy dean, garlandcannon, Harold Litwiler, Poppy, Goedeker's, Mike Licht, NotionsCapital.com, Luciano Belviso, theanthonyryan, r.nial.bradshaw, PickComfort, Robert.Pittman, Goedeker's, Paula R. Lively, Me in ME, osseous, sunoochi, PLeia2, cattan2011, Patricia Pierce, mikecogh, Anthony Quintano, Kirt Edblom, Jeff Kubina, designsbykari, torbakhopper, roseannadana, orangemania, SparkFunElectronics, M. Martin Vicente, JeepersMedia, John Brighenti, chimpwithcan, wuestenigel, Bennilover
  • Welcome
  • About Us
  • Services
    • Home Office Organization
    • Residential Organization >
      • Are You Chronically Disorganized? >
        • Common Characteristics of Chronically Disorganized Individuals
      • Are you Situationally Disorganized?
      • Organizing by Learning and Action Style Preferences
    • Senior Organization
    • Student Organization >
      • Executive Function
      • Improving Your Child's Organizing Skills
      • Organizing by Learning/Sensory Preferences and Action Style Preferences
      • Organization and Time Management Strategies for Kids with L.D.
      • Student Organizing Tips - Internet Resources
  • Gallery
  • FAQ
  • Resources
    • Charitable Donation Information
    • Decisions, Decisions, Decisions ... To Keep or Not to Keep?
    • Green Tips from NAPO-New England Professional Organizers
    • Insightful Education Websites for Children and Students with All Kinds of Abilities
    • Inspirational Organizing Quotes
    • Interesting Readings
    • Junk Mail and Telemarketing Phone Call Reduction Resources
    • Miscellaneous Organizational Tips
    • NAPO Code of Ethics
    • NAPO-NE Tips for Adopting Green Organizing and Celebrating Earth Day
    • NAPO-NE Tips for Practical Ways to Get Organized
    • Outstanding Professional Organizer Websites
    • Organizing Product Stores
    • Resale Information
  • Testimonials/In the News
    • Testimonials
    • In the News
  • Contact
  • Blog