Confession. I’ve been a tick “judgey” of other moms. Not intentionally judgey, but judgey nonetheless. Here’s the thing, you don’t know what you don’t know. For years, I’d hear or read moms talk about how they couldn’t get the family around the table for a healthy meal. Or, they didn’t have time to cook for their family, so every meal was on-the-go, making all varieties of fast food, from PB&Js to Popeye’s, a lifeline to keep their family fed.

“How,” I thought, “Can they not find a way to make it work?” Judgment quickly withers when you suddenly find yourself knee-deep in their reality. The pace of our life has rocketed as our kids progressed in age, but high school, whoa baby, high school! Let’s say this season of life presents a whole new level of complication that’s made me oh-so-compassionate and creative. I have had to go back to basics and rethink everything I thought I knew about routine. Necessity drives creativity, and by the grace of God, I’m getting it. So, how in the world is a mom to create balance with big kids? Here are a few of the ways we’ve stayed sane and sensible in this season.

Pre-pack ready to go meals

Think Lunchables with a healthy twist. On the go meals are the life-preserver that keeps you afloat. Embrace it, and you’ve won the bulk of the battle. On meal prep day, try adding premade meals to your rotation. Use large Tupperware or storage bins to pack 3-5 premade meals. Mine include a protein shake, sandwich, piece of fruit or cut veggies, crackers, and a baked Dashing Dish item (usually a muffin). My son usually grabs one to eat on the road at least half the week, and it’s a lifesaver. Sorry Chik-Fil-A (wink, wink).

Sit with Who You Have

I began this new season with the mindset that we needed the whole family to have a sit-down family meal. All it took was adjusting my way of thinking to eliminate frustration. I realized that at dinner, whoever was home could and would sit together. You do the best with the best you have, right? Enjoy your people in all the different seasons.

Look Ahead

Get into the habit of always looking one whole week ahead. Take a moment to survey what activities, events, appointments, and commitments you have the following week so you can plan accordingly for early meals, to-go meals, and who will eat what, where, and when. Most often, I make dinner late afternoon, so it’s prepared for anyone who can sit down and eat at home. Those who are on the go grab a meal or eat the prepared dinner later.

Adjust Your Meal Planning

Simple is the golden rule for sanity. When meal planning, look for recipes that can be made ahead or require minimal prep and cook time. These are on repeat for me!

Creamy Taco Soup

Skillet Sausage and Rice

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

Southwest Quinoa Chicken Salad

Relax!

Here’s the piece de resistance, breath! Set practical, realistic goals. By practical I mean, like serving something made a home versus a restaurant, even if that thing is a PB&J. Spend time where and when you can get it. I’ve learned to cherish car time with my crew. We may not be sitting down at the table to enjoy a meal, but golden moments are found in the minutes. By realistic, determine to include fresh food in each meal. Simple foods like cut veggies or sliced fruit are a win! Give yourself much grace. Give your loves much grace. Be present and breathe. Do your best. Mostly, don’t miss a moment because in a minute you’ll be in a new season. Embrace this one, you’re doing your best, momma!