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School is around the corner and we are all gathering or putting the finishing touches on supplies, clothes and shoes. If you're a parent, one of the biggest life savers and time savers is getting hairstyles that can last at least a week for your child. Some hair types can be easily be done in the morning with just a brush of the hair and minimal product, but for children with thicker, curlier and coarser hair, this takes time. So for all the moms who have kids with this hair type, this one is for you. Here are 4 hair styles that can be done by you or a stylist to make your mornings smoother. Afro Puffs My daughter's go to. They're the easiest and my favorite because there is so much you can do with styling them. Start as always with very well moisturized hair. Part to your desired number of puffs, comb through the full length of the hair and fasten with elastic rubber bands to keep the hair together. Use a wide tooth comb to further detangle and add shape to the hair. To maintain the look, put a silk bonnet or silk scarf on before bed and refresh with water and a moisturizing agent in the morning. Box Braids Box braids are my absolute favorite, because there is so much versatility and a great look for every occasion. This will always be a hairstyle, not a trend . They have stood the test of time for a reason. This hairstyle tends to last a good two weeks to two and half weeks if I am pushing it with my daughters. I like a feed in version which always gives a more natural look. It also the base for a braided updo and bun. Cornrows By the age of 13, I was already combing my own hair for school and cornrows were my go to. Much like box braids, cornrows last at least two weeks, and do especially well with the addition of small amounts of braiding hair to the natural hair. It's a great style and again has great versatility in terms of shape, size and appearance. Double Twist Another cute hairstyle that can be adorned in whatever suits your little one You can start with rubber bands at the base or no rubber bands. Medium sized to small twist last longer. Style with clips and headbands. Always a great look. As a parent, having one less thing to worry about in the morning makes for a smoother start to the day. It's okay if you can't do the elaborate Pinterest hairstyles that you see. Once you cover your bases, getting creative becomes easier. What is your go to style for your children? (Top and third photo by @braidiish/Instagram, second photo Adobe Sock, fourth photo @braidedbyher/Instagram, and last photo @mylaily3/Instagram)

As women, in today’s society, we have more responsibilities than ever, and we’re expected to excel in every role. This is not realistically possible as we all know. We are expected to be great wives or girlfriends, great employees, a support system to friends and family. And that’s while practicing self care, mindfulness, and still make time for every Saturday brunch. All of this in a single lifetime. Now, if we choose to become mothers, the strain of it all is further compounded. Many of us are the primary caretakers for the children, maintain the household, the family schedule, and work outside the home. All we pray for is a fifteen minute nap that our toddlers won’t let us have, because someone needs a third cup of chocolate milk and the ability to use the bathroom alone without someone trying to bulldoze the door. I understand that it is part of being a member of a family, community and a society, but there is a clear imbalance of emotional labor and responsibilities inside and outside of the home, weighing heaviest on women. This puts us at a disadvantage, leaving us to carry the brunt of the work. It also increases the risk for mental health issues, because women were never meant to do this much labor alone. Unfortunately in many homes, while dad is resting after his day job, mom is running circles around him after her own long day out in the workforce and coming home to fulfill almost all the responsibilities of taking care of her family. These are the moments when I get a burning desire to scream “Fire,” just so that I can snuff the enjoyment out his rest to draw attention to the fact that he can stop dreaming about whatever is making him smile and extend some help. Then, we have to deal with the Judgmental Judys who always need to comment about other people’s personal parental choices. They question our choice between breast milk or formula. They judge whether we choose to be medicated or unmediated during childbirth—I mean the list goes on and on. Okay Judgy Judy , you should be happy that I fed the kid or that it came out healthy but nooooo, you need to tell me about all the developmental issues that people who don’t breastfeed or people who labor medicated can cause their children. Then we have the single married moms . Quite the oxymoron, but it is a real status that so many women go through resulting, in resentment, anger and sometimes depression. It would almost feel better to be a single parent , rather than lugging dead weight or feeling that you’re you’re mothering someone who isn’t your child. This can sometimes be repaired if the work is put in by both individuals to change the dynamics, but sometimes there is no room for that to happen and decisions need to be made . Some days, I am so fatigued that I would love to let my kids eat Joe’s Os and cereal bars, but I would feel so guilty, even though I know that one day without a super healthy breakfast would not harm them. As the person who is primarily responsible for their welfare and the only one focused on maintaining healthy habits. Why is it typically mom who cares about these things? There has to be more support for women. I am aware that some women are fortunate to have men who hold up their end of this partnership, but for the most part, many women are not so fortunate. Thankfully, there is a massive shift happening where women are exposing the behavior, excuses and weaponized incompetence of partners to have the important conversation. They are also educating young women and encouraging them to ask the tough questions that can prevent future heartbreak if all parties are honest. So to anyone overwhelmed by motherhood, work and friendships among so many other things, know you are not alone. I had a good cry in the bathroom at work three days ago, took a mental health and healing day yesterday, and I am now ready to go back to work. Let it out ladies. Have an ugly cry if you need to, take a couple of breaths and hopefully you find comfort in conversation with a friend or professional therapist. And try to get a fifteen minute nap. You earned it. (Photo, Getty Images)

These days, going to the grocery store makes even the strongest of us cower due to rising food prices. For that reason, I have been coming up with creative ways to reduce the grocery budget for my family of four. Most of our family meals are made from scratch, but now, I am consistently making a few staples that I would usually purchase premade. Bread, cup cakes, muffins I love baking. I am a frequent baker of cakes, cupcakes and muffins, because I like having control of the ingredients in our food. Having children with food allergies has made me conscious of the ingredient list, and I am able to have snacks that I can pack for school. Unfortunately, anything that requires yeast as the rising agent is my nemesis. I loathe the waiting, but I have decided that it is worth it to bake our own bread. It's becoming costly, and I like being able to have bread with no preservatives. I found a great bread recipe online, and I hit gold the first time. My family loves it and I am experimenting with adding different flours. Next stops, focaccia and sourdough. Salad Dressing My family loves a simple dressing. The 'everyday' salad dressing that we use quite literally for almost every salad we make is a mixture of olive oil, avocado oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. It never disappoints. I have also began making small batches of Japanese ginger salad dressing, which requires blending ginger, carrots, onion, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar and oil to give the most aromatic and flavorful dressing you can think of. Caramel Sauce One day, I ran out of maple syrup at home and needed a syrup for crêpes which we make every week. I decided that homemade caramel sauce would be a great easy alternative. I make mine using cane or brown sugar in my cast iron pan and have been very happy with the results. Pancakes and crêpes In my house, we enjoy Saturday and/or Sunday breakfast. After a busy week, it's nice to enjoy a batch of crêpes . I have also been adding puréed vegetables to add color to my crêpe recipe since I have a picky eater. She loves the color and has no idea she is eating her veggies at the same time. Barbecue sauce Barbecue sauce is a staple in our house, so for this reason, I make a batch of barbecue sauce that stays for quite a while. I get to control the degree of sweetness and we all enjoy knowing that we can always whip up more as long as all the ingredients are in stock. This is a growing list of items. I know that for so many this can be time consuming, but it is worth it for us. Are you making anything from scratch? (Photos: Baking setup Wix, Loaf of bread Lillian.com , Salad dressing Erhardtseat.com , caramel sauce Bellyfull.net , crêpes Wix, barbecue sauce Natashaskkitchen.com )

Creating a harmonious shared living and play space can be a challenge. As someone who lived in 450 square feet with a family of four , I understand the full scale effect of having to manage sharing small spaces. Children tend to be balls of chaos while many a dults thrive in organization and order. It can be difficult at times for the two to coexist, but there are ways to keeping a small shared space tidy . I have found that shelving can be your best friend in this endeavor, offering versatile storage solutions that keep your space tidy and functional. Here are some tips and ideas for maximizing shelf storage in a shared living and play area. 1. Multi-Purpose Shelving Units Opt for shelving units that serve multiple purposes. A unit with both open shelves and/or closed cabinets can store toys and games while displaying books and decor items. This helps maintain a clean look while providing ample storage. 2. Use Baskets and Bins Incorporate baskets and bins into your shelving units. They are perfect for grouping similar items together and can easily be moved around. Choose bins that match your decor to keep the aesthetic cohesive. Labeling the bins can also help kids know where to put their toys away. 3. Floating Shelves for Vertical Storage Floating shelves are great for utilizing vertical space. Install them higher up for adult items like books, plants, or decorative pieces, keeping them out of reach of children. Lower shelves can be designated for kids' toys and games, making it easy for them to access and put away their belongings. 4. Rotating Toys and Books To avoid clutter, rotate the toys and books. Keep some items on display on the shelves and store the rest in bins or storage closets. Regularly rotating these items keeps the space fresh and exciting for kids without overwhelming them with too many choices. 5. Create Defined Zones Use shelving to create defined zones within your shared space. For example, one section of the shelves can be dedicated to toys and games, while another can house books and adult decor items. This helps create a sense of order and ensures everyone knows where things belong. 6. Incorporate Low Shelves for Easy Access For younger children, low shelves are essential. They provide easy access to toys and books, encouraging kids to play independently and teaching them to put things away when they're done. Make sure these shelves are sturdy and safe for little hands. 7. Regularly Declutter and Reorganize Regular maintenance is key to keeping a shared space tidy. Set aside time each month to declutter and reorganize the shelves. This helps keep the area functional and prevents it from becoming overwhelmed with unnecessary items. 8. Safety First Ensure that all shelving units are securely anchored to the wall to prevent tipping. Safety is paramount, especially in spaces where children play. Check regularly that the units remain stable and secure. By implementing these shelf storage ideas, you can create a shared living and play space that is organized, functional, and enjoyable for everyone. Shelving can significantly enhance the usability of your space, making it easier to maintain a tidy and inviting environment. This was me creating such a space in our 450 square foot apartment before moving to a larger space. Feel free to adapt these suggestions to fit your specific needs and style. Happy organizing!

I fell into the abyss of Instagram on one tragic night and I came across an illustration that made me feel so visible. It depicted a struggle that I have been working on for several months. Not only did it describe what I had been doing for several years now, but there is an actual word for it. It’s called revenge bedtime procrastination . It sounds so unfortunate with revenge in there, but it is really the most liberating feeling when it is happening even though there are so many downsides to this behavior. Revenge bedtime procrastination also known as retaliatory staying up late is described by journalist Daphne K. Lee as the phenomenon where “ people who don’t have much control over their daytime life refuse to sleep early in order to regain some sense of freedom during late-night hours .” It is an attempt by individuals to feel some semblance of control of their time. Before the pandemic, I would be up by 5a.m. getting two children and myself ready for work and school and out the door by 7a.m. We’d get the train to Manhattan, where I would drop them off and either walk to class close by or take another train back to Brooklyn, depending on the schedule that day. Every day I was working and in class, so I was on the train at least three times before heading to pick up my children, and then back home to Brooklyn. I get home and it’s dinner, baths, dishes, lunch preparation and homework. And I still had to be someone’s wife. There was no time to breathe. Regardless of my strenuous schedule, I still found time to engage in revenge bedtime procrastination, even though it meant I was losing sleep. I hardly ever made it to bed before 12a.m, and I had to be up by 5a.m. I craved that time to myself at the end of a long day, especially when I felt like I had been driven like a mule. Revenge bedtime procrastination can easily go for thirty minutes, to an hour, two hours, and pretty soon, sleep begins to feel like it no longer matters. It can quickly get out of control to the point that this becomes a practice several nights a week. It eventually becomes draining. It leaves your mind and body depleted, but there is still always that desire to escape. This really fuels the behavior, even though you know it is detrimental. The need for control and freedom surpasses the need for sleep . It feels like every part of your day belongs to everyone else, but you. So at night, you take back the control that you have freely given to everyone else. It feels almost euphoric in the moment. But then comes the massive downside; you’re losing sleep and if that continues, your health suffers. Revenge bedtime procrastination feels good in the moment, but engaging in the behavior only harms you. If itcontinues long-term, there are truly detrimental effects on a person’s physical and mental wellness. The Phillips Global Sleep Study “ showed that 62% of adults worldwide feel they don’t get enough sleep, averaging 6.8 hours on a weeknight compared to the recommended amount of eight hours. ” Lack of sleep is truly a global crisis” and long-term sleep deprivation is harmful in every way. For this reason, long term sleep deprivation is a pathway to poor health. As liberating as it feels to just grab some time to yourself, it is important to manage the amount of time spent engaging in whatever activity brings you comfort and gives you that control. The saying I’ll sleep when I die is indeed the most toxic belief that one can exercise, because in actuality, not sleeping can lead to an earlier death. That is truly the travesty of uncontrolled revenge bedtime procrastination. Today, declare that you are prepared to make changes for better sleep hygiene. Treat your body and mind like the temples that they are for a longer and more fulfilling life. Do you exercise revenge bedtime procrastination? (Photo: Erica Lewis/Instagram with explicit permission to use illustration)

As someone who loves cooking and did not grow up with many modern conveniences, cooking from scratch is the norm. For years, I’ve admired the art of fresh pasta and noodles but never took the plunge to try making them myself. Then a few days ago, with no noodles in the house, my daughter kept asking me for the food that she has been bingeing on lately. After repeatedly telling her there is no pasta, she said, "I guess I will starve. Do you not love me?" At that moment, I caved in and asked Google to be a friend; "How to make noodles from scratch?" After years of sticking to the dried stuff, I finally embarked on making fresh noodles and let me tell you—it's been a total game changer. The Allure of Fresh Noodles The texture and the chewiness of homemade noodles is unrivaled. It's the way they soak up sauces and broths. There’s something so satisfying about biting into a noodle that was made just minutes before hitting your plate. Fresh noodles have a softness and a springiness that dried noodles just can't replicate. Getting Started: My First Attempt As an avid baker, making fresh noodles wasn't intimidating. It requires combining basic ingredients to form a dough at the right consistency. Ingredients 250 mg/ml of flour 110 mg/ml of water pinch of salt (optional) Instructions Combine all the ingredients. Learn to feel the dough, to know when it was too dry or too sticky. I learned to knead it until it was smooth and elastic. Let it rest for 10-30 minutes and even up to 1 hour so that it could be easily stretched or rolled out. I used a pizza cutter to cut the strips and I was well on my way. The Game Changer: Why Fresh Noodles are Worth It Here’s why making fresh noodles is a game changer for anyone who loves cooking: Flavor and Texture: Fresh noodles have a depth of flavor that dried noodles lack. They’re chewy, and tender all at once, providing the perfect foundation for any sauce or broth. Versatility: Once you master the basic noodle dough, the possibilities are endless. You can make thick, chewy udon and move into pasta with just the addition of eggs. Control Over Ingredients: Making noodles from scratch gives you control over what goes into them. Whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or just trying to cut out preservatives, homemade noodles allow you to tailor them to your dietary needs. Satisfaction: There’s something deeply satisfying about taking the time to make something from scratch, especially something as comforting as noodles. It’s an almost meditative process. Tips for Beginners If you're thinking about diving into the world of fresh noodles, here are a few tips to help you get started: 1. Start Simple: Begin with a basic noodle recipe like hand-pulled noodles or egg noodles. These require minimal ingredients and equipment, making them perfect for beginners. 2. Invest in a Good Rolling Pin: If you’re making pasta or other rolled noodles, a quality rolling pin is essential. It will help you achieve a consistent thickness, which is key to even cooking. 3. Don’t Skip the Resting Period: Letting your dough rest after kneading is crucial. It relaxes the gluten, making the dough easier to work with and resulting in a better texture in the final product. 4. Practice Makes Perfect: Your first few batches might not be perfect, and that’s okay! Like anything in cooking, making fresh noodles takes practice. The more you do it, the better you’ll get. Bringing Fresh Noodles into Your Routine I will keep working on mastering the art of fresh noodles, since it will be a staple in my kitchen. If you’ve been on the fence about trying to make your own noodles, I encourage you to take the plunge. Once you taste that first bite of springy, tender noodles, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start making them sooner. Trust me, it’s a game changer.

Moving from NYC to the Capital Region has given me access to the best of both worlds. I am close to everything I need to maintain our household and lifestyle and I also get to enjoy some of the most amazing state parks, nature trails and the rich history of New York State. Every day, I am amazed by the beauty of New York, and one of the places I will always be in awe of is Saratoga Spa State Park. My mom is visiting us, and on our radar was Saratoga Spa State Park . Nestled in upstate New York, Saratoga Springs is a gem that beautifully intertwines rich history with stunning natural beauty. The last time she was there with us, was a few days after an early spring snowfall. I was eager to show my mother the transformation from spring to summer so that she can truly appreciate what the girls and I have grown to love. A bit of history The original Indigenous inhabitants of Saratoga Springs were Algonkian peoples known as Mohicans, speaking an Algonquian language. Their native neighbors included the … Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) to the west. Both the Algonkian and the Haudenosaunee considered the area surrounding Saratoga Springs sacred. Because of its mineral springs with healing waters, it was considered an area of peace to be shared by all. Stop 1: Polaris Spring Polaris Spring is the first spring we encountered in Saratoga Spa State Park. It is located right off of Geyser Loop Road. The carbonated rich iron flavor is an acquired taste, but it was worth trying. I contemplated taking some home, but a gentleman who seemed well acquainted with the springs said it doesn’t store well. My mom was happy to take a cup with her. Stop 2: Geyser Creek Everything about Geyser Creek is picturesque and calming. It takes me back to my childhood with days spent by the river having fun with family and friends. Looking at my daughters enjoying their time walking through the water and sitting on the rocks felt nostalgic. It is experiences like this that fuel a deep respect and appreciation for the earth. It was hard getting them out of there to visit some of the other springs. Stop 3: Karista Spring Approaching Karista Spring feels like a backdrop straight out of Lord of the Rings or Sweet Tooth . The towering trees that could tell stories if they spoke, invite you to a beautifully preserved spring, one of the very few that were left after the government took over what was once private land. We were amazed to find out that there were originally a little over 180 springs but only 21 were left after private industries were expelled from the land. A great fun fact. Stop 4: Hayes Well Spring Slightly off the intersection of Geyser Creek Trail and Geyser Loop Road, and before Geyser Brook Geyser is Hayes Well Spring. It contains two taps of spring water that drips into a small pool carved by the waters. It really is a beauty. Stop 5: Geyser Brook Geyser A spouter located near Hayes Well, Geyser Brook is truly a sight beyond words. Bedrock perched in upper levels of Geyser Creek allows for a spout to emit its healing waters. Though not accessible to the general public, the spouting water is evidence of the carbonated composition of this spring. We stood in awe, gazing at the spout while listening to the sound of surrounding water moving downhill. Stop 5: Creekside Classroom On our way out, we visited the Creekside Classroom. We first encountered the back of the building that has a bed of a variety of flowers. The classroom comtains pamphlets and fliers with information about Saratoga Springs and a large birdwatching window with binoculars and information about yhe birds that inhabit the park. On display is the skins of animals native to the region. The girls were not super excited about that, but it is worth seeing. On your way out, be sure to say hi to Lois the turtle. We all left rejuvenated and happy. Looking forward to a few more visits to the park.

Originally posted: November 10, 2019 Updated: August 16, 2024 It was just a year ago that my family packed our belongings and moved out of the apartment we had been living in for about fifteen years. We moved into our 450 square foot apartment as a couple. We then added two more little residents to the space, so let's just say, it was a full house. As tiny as it was, I grew to love that apartment, though weekends often highlighted just how limited our living space really was. Nonetheless, it was during quiet moments that I learned to fully appreciated our compact New York apartment. We simply learned to adapt and thrive within our home. For many people like us, living in a small apartment was not just a choice but a necessity. My family of four was no exception. However, we’ve discovered that with creativity, flexibility, and a positive mindset, it was possible to live comfortably, even in a tight space. The key to thriving in a small apartment lies in how you utilize the space available to you. I became an expert at maximizing every square foot, turning what could feel cramped into a home that met all our needs. It wasn't always easy, but it was rewarding, taught us valuable lessons about simplicity, organization, and the true meaning of home. The Challenge of Sleeping Arrangements: Sacrifices and Solutions One of the most significant challenges we faced in our small apartment was figuring out the sleeping arrangements. When our first daughter was born, it became clear that my existing setup wouldn’t work. To make room for her crib, I had to part with a beautiful makeup station that I had cherished. It was a difficult decision, but one that was necessary for our growing family. The challenge didn’t stop there. When our second daughter arrived, we had to reposition or bed and get rid of the changing table to make room for yet another crib. The sacrifice of convenience was tough, but it was essential in creating a space where our children could sleep comfortably. These changes worked out better than I could have imagined. We managed to carve out a sleeping space that accommodates all of us without feeling too overcrowded. Bedroom and bed-sharing became a natural part of our routine. Each of us has a designated sleeping spot, and we’ve found that we can all sleep comfortably, even in such close quarters. There’s something incredibly comforting about having everyone so near. On some nights, we all pile into the big bed, snuggle up, and drift off to sleep together. These moments of closeness are some of the most precious, reminding me that while space was limited, the love and connection we share as a family is boundless. The Living Room: Our Multifunctional Family Hub In a small apartment, every room must serve multiple purposes, and our living room was the epitome of this multifunctionality. The space was where our daughters played, where we gathered as a family, and where we entertained guests. Given the room’s multiple uses, keeping it organized and functional was crucial. To maintain order, I adopted a minimalist approach when it came to toys. I bought only what was necessary and ensured that all toys had a designated storage spot, typically in canvas bins and containers that blend seamlessly with the room’s decor. Toy rotation  has become a game-changer for us. When the girls received new toys, I stored some of their older ones away. Later, I brought the old toys back out, and they would feel brand new to the girls. This system is a win-win, and kept the living room tidy while also keeping our daughters engaged and entertained. The living room’s flexibility is what made it such an essential part of our home. Whether we were hosting a family movie night, engaging in a play session, or simply relaxing, this space adapted to our needs. By keeping it organized and clutter-free, we ensured that it remained a functional and enjoyable area for all of us. Creative Storage Solutions: Making Every Inch Count Storage is perhaps the biggest challenge in any small apartment, and ours was no exception. With limited space, I had to get creative to ensure that we were able store everything we needed. I learned to make use of every available inch of space, finding storage solutions in places that might otherwise go unused. For example, we had a closet in our living room that had extra space to the far right and an oddly sloped bottom. I realized rather than hanging clothing there which I rarely did, installing shelves was a better use of space. Under our couch was a valuable storage spot, as was the space under the girls’ beds. Ours was quite low, so it did not accommodate much. Our furniture was multifunctional offering storage solutions, allowed us to keep our belongings organized and out of sight. This was essential in maintaining a livable and functional space. I had been practicing the principles of the KonMari method long before I ever heard of Marie Kondo. The idea of keeping only what sparks joy resonates deeply with me, especially in a small space where every item must serve a purpose. By being selective about what we keep and finding smart storage solutions for the things we need, we’ve been able to create a home that feels both spacious and serene. Creative Storage Solutions: Making Every Inch Count Storage is perhaps the biggest challenge in any small apartment, and ours was no exception. With limited space, I had to get creative to ensure that we were able store everything we needed. I learned to make use of every available inch of space, finding storage solutions in places that might otherwise go unused. For example, we had a closet in our living room that had extra space to the far right and an oddly sloped bottom. I realized rather than hanging clothing there which I rarely did, installing shelves was a better use of space. Under our couch was a valuable storage spot, as was the space under the girls’ beds. Ours was quite low, so it did not accommodate much. Our furniture was multifunctional offering storage solutions, allowed us to keep our belongings organized and out of sight. This was essential in maintaining a livable and functional space. I had been practicing the principles of the KonMari method long before I ever heard of Marie Kondo. The idea of keeping only what sparks joy resonates deeply with me, especially in a small space where every item must serve a purpose. By being selective about what we keep and finding smart storage solutions for the things we need, we’ve been able to create a home that feels both spacious and serene. Involving the Kids: Teaching Responsibility and Teamwork One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in this journey is the value of involving our children in the cleaning and organizing process. By assigning them small tasks, like tidying up their toys or helping with simple cleaning chores, we not only keep our home organized but also taught them important life skills. Getting the kids involved has made a significant difference in how we manage our space. It’s not just about keeping things clean—it’s about fostering a sense of responsibility and teamwork. Our daughters understand the importance of maintaining order, and they have grown to take pride in helping out around the house. My older daughter has gotten a grasp on the value of being a contributing member of our family, but my little one is getting there. Baby steps. The Power of Routine: Staying Organized in a Small Space To maintain a clean and organized home, I’ve developed a daily and weekly cleaning and organization routine. This routine helped in making our small space functional and enjoyable. We stuck to it for the most part to ensure that clutter did not build up and that everything remained in its designated place. The philosophy that “everything has a home” is central to how we maintain order in our apartment. Every item, no matter how small, has a specific spot where it belongs. This approach makes it easy to find things when we need them and reduces the stress that can come from living in a cluttered space. Following a routine also helps me manage the demands of daily life in a small apartment. With two young children, it’s easy for things to get messy quickly, but by staying on top of the cleaning and organization, I can keep our home in a state that feels both livable and enjoyable. Finding Joy in a Small Space For me, there’s a deep sense of satisfaction that comes from living in a clean, organized space. It’s one of the reasons why our small apartment worked so well for us. At that time, I recognized the value of what we had. Our apartment may have been small, but it’s filled with love, laughter, and memories. Rather than focusing on the limitations of our space, we chose to focus on the positives. We made countless memories in that apartment, and when the time came to move on, we missed that tiny space. It was the backdrop for so many important moments in our lives, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful. Embracing the Journey: Living in the Moment Living in a small space taught us to appreciate what we have and to make the most of it. We learned to be resourceful, creative, and, most importantly, to cherish the time we spend together as a family. Our apartment was small, but it’s filled with love and joy, and that’s what truly matters. We have since moved to a bigger space, and will value the lesson of living in the moment and the joy we found in making this small space our home. Living in a small New York apartment with a family of four posed its challenges, but it was a rewarding experience. Our journey has taught us to value and focus on the things that truly matter—love, family, and the memories we make together.   In the end, it’s not about the size of the space you live in, but how you live in that space.

Summer in the Capital Region means sun-soaked days, warm evenings, and a perfect opportunity to splash around in some of the area’s best public pools. Whether you’re looking for a place to cool off, let the kids burn off some energy, or simply enjoy a relaxing swim, the Capital Region has you covered. Here are three public pools that the girls and I have been enjoying and you should consider visiting this season: 1. Central Park Pool in Schenectady Located in Central Park Schenectady, the new $10.1 million city pool which opened June 18, 2024 is becoming a local favorite. This pool features: Peerless Pool:  Ideal for younger swimmers with a maximum depth of 3 ft 6 inches. Deeper Connected Pool:  For older swimmers seeking a swim in deeper waters. Play Area:  A shallow zone for young kids with water features and splash pad. The pool is surrounded by a deck area topped with artificial grass to mark as a gathering spot for families to replace lounge chairs. The surrounding Central Park also offers additional amenities, including a playground and sports courts. Location:  500 Iroquois Way, Schenectady, NY 12305 Hours:  M-F 8am-9am (Lap Swim Only), M-F 12:30pm-6:30pm (Open Swim), S&S 12pm-6pm (Open Swim) 2. Peerless Pool at Saratoga Spa State Park Peerless Pool, a gem in the heart of the picturesque Saratoga Spa State Park hosts a large, well-maintained pool that's perfect for families and individuals alike. Highlights include: Generous Pool Size:  A large pool with ample space for both leisurely swims and active play. Waterslide:  A thrilling feature that adds an extra layer of fun for anyone who can meet the height requirement. Kiddie Pool : A smaller pool for toddlers. Picnic Areas:  Nearby shaded areas and tables make it easy to enjoy a meal before or after swimming. The surrounding state park also offers picturesque walking paths, a playground, and natural springs for a full day of outdoor fun. Location:  19 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Hours:  Daily, 9 AM - 6 PM 3. Colonie Mohawk River Park and Pool Complex Situated in the town of Colonie, this pool is a community favorite and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Features include: Olympic Size Pool:  With options for both gentle wading and deeper dives. Kids’ Area:  A special section with water games and features designed for younger swimmers. Facilities:  Bath house, two pavilions, picn. Town of Colonie swimming pool also boasts walking, hiking, jogging, and picnic spots, making it a wonderful location for a combined swim and outdoor experience. Location:  71 Schermerhorn Rd, Cohoes, NY 12047 Hours:  Daily, 10:30 AM - 7 PM Final Tips for Pool Visits Bring Sunscreen:  Protect yourself from UV rays, especially during peak sun hours. Stay Hydrated:  Drink plenty of water to stay refreshed. Follow Pool Rules:  Adhere to safety guidelines and regulations for a fun and secure experience. These public pools in the Capital Region offer something for everyone, whether you’re seeking relaxation, recreation, or a day of family fun. Dive in and enjoy the summer! (Photo Central Park Pool/ Times Union , Peerless Pool Saratoga Spa State Park/Facebook , and Colonie Mohawk River Park and Pool Complex)

There is never a wrong season for a great stew. If you own a pressure cooker, I hope you don’t have it stored somewhere in the back of the cupboard. I encourage you to dust off this baby and pull it out for an easy dinner. A hearty stew, especially when it's as satisfying as pressure cooker mashed potatoes and beef stew is the way to go. Let's dive into the recipe and cooking process, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready in no time. Ingredients: For the Mashed Potatoes: - 8 large potatoes, peeled and chopped - 1 cup water - 1 cup milk - 1/2 cup butter - Salt and pepper to taste For the Beef Stew: - 4 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/4 tablespoons olive oil - 1 large onion, chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons better than bouillon - 2 cups carrots, - 1/2 cup celery, chopped - 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup of water Instructions: Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes 1. Rinse potatoes and place into the pressure cooker with 1 cup of water. 2. Secure the lid and set the pressure cooker to high pressure for 15 minutes. 3. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. 4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pressure cooker pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. 5. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Cover and set aside to keep warm. Step 2: Prepare the Beef Stew 1. Combine all the ingredients except the carrots and water. Marinate for at least 20 mins. 2. Set the pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. 3. Pour in the remaining marinated vegetables and mix. Allow vegetables to become fragrant and translucent. 4. Add the sun dried tomatoes and mix thoroughly. Cook for 1 minute then add water. 5. Secure the lid and set the pressure cooker to high pressure for 1 hour. 7. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release. This pressure cooker mashed potatoes and beef stew recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. The pressure cooker significantly reduces the cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!