19. Bumps in The Road
Description
A holiday road trip, a house full of flu, and deadlines stacking up—then the realization that our “get back on track” grind was making everything worse. We decided to slow down, skip a day when fevers hit, say yes to hot chocolate and a matinee, and rebuild our rhythm around what actually makes our family feel good. The shift was simple and powerful: less pressure on perfect routines, more focus on presence, movement, water, sleep, and small, consistent moments that keep us close.
We open up about a blind spot that crept in as the kids got more independent: one-on-one time. Our fix is a private calendar packed with tiny 15-minute hangs—nails in a bedroom, a quick board game, a bike ride, a walk. These micro-moments are easy to keep and big on connection, making room for real talks without needing a whole afternoon. We also get honest about December burnout, messy counters, and the myth that chores must come before connection. Spoiler: the mess will wait.
If you’re craving a reset, this conversation offers permission and a plan: honor your energy, protect small moments, and use tools that fit your season.
The phone we have with NO social media and NO internet browser!



