10 Morning Habits That Could Be Ruining Your Day (And How To Fix Them)

 The first hour after you wake up can impact your energy, focus, mood, and productivity. Here's what to stop doing and what to do instead. This post may contain opportunities for me to earn compensation. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Ever have one of those days where you feel behind before you’ve even left the house? Your morning routine has a bigger impact on your day than you might think. The habits you practice during the first hour or so after waking up can affect your energy levels, focus, productivity, mood, and even your physical comfort throughout the day. Many of us unknowingly start our mornings with habits that work against us. Here are 10 common morning mistakes—and what to do instead.

Almost Wordless Wednesday: Good Roots

I grew up playing on the roots of this White Oak tree, estimated to be over 400 years old. The way the roots hang above the hill next to the road reminds me of Frodo hiding under the roots of a tree in LOTR. 

Teen Book Ideas: Books My 14 Year Old Didn't Hate

 All views and opinions expressed here are those of my own. This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking and making a purchase, I may receive a commission. Thanks for your support! 

I'm a huge advocate for letting kids read books they enjoy. As a homeschooling parent, I have more control over what books my children are instructed to read for their education. With that, we have books that are required reading for our teen, and then he can choose books he reads for his enjoyment. When I'm handing him a book to read for "school," there's a typical groan followed by tons of sighing. It's a pleasant surprise that he finishes an assigned book and discovers he enjoyed reading it! Below, I've listed some books my son has enjoyed reading. 

Keep The First Things First Add The Jesus Daily Bible To Your Routine

 Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a product sample for this review. All opinions here reflect those of my own. This post may contain affiliate links. 

I enjoy doing Bible lessons with our kids as part of our homeschool, but sometimes, my personal Bible time slips to the back burner to be missed. As a mom with ADHD, I tend to put self-care somewhere at the bottom of my mental checklist, and my personal devotions and quiet time will get lost in the business of doing ALL THE THINGS. Last year, I threw myself into volunteering on a board of directors for a children's sports league, and things all around me started falling apart. My family was frustrated with me, and I was ashamed for turning my eyes away from what was truly important to me! There's nothing wrong with volunteering or helping others, but I forgot to keep the first things first. When I prioritize my time with the MOST HIGH, all the other things fall into their rightful places. This year, I want to encourage you as I encourage myself to keep the first things first by adding the Jesus Daily Bible to your daily routine! 

For The LOVE Of READING Author & Book Blogger Giveaway Hop Sign Ups

For The LOVE Of READING, Giveaway Hop runs February 1, 12:00 am ET, through February 28, 11:59 pm ET! All bloggers are invited to join us for this event with a bookish theme and no prize minimum! Authors and bloggers, sign up below by adding your link.  

Cold Outside? Stay In For A Family Game Night With Winning Moves!

 I received products in exchange for this post. All views and opinions here reflect those of my own. The sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment.

Welcome to our annual December Giveaway Hop! Winter is coming, but we have games from Winning Moves Games, so let it snow! We are a gaming family. We love playing card games, board games, and video games together! There's something about the colder weather that makes us want to stay home and spend quality time together, and Winning Moves brings us to the table for fun. Check out the new family games and visit their site to help check off your holiday shopping list! 

Winter Is Coming So Let It Snow $100 Giveaway!

Waking up on this cold December morning, I looked out our window to see over three inches of snow on the ground, and it seemed like the perfect way to start the month. However, you're starting the month, I hope that you take a moment to visit our partnering blogs and enter this fun giveaway for a chance to win $100. Stay warm, friends!