Quick Weekend Projects to Refresh Your Space

You don’t need a full renovation to make your home feel fresh. Try one of these 2-hour-or-less projects:

• Entryway Glow-Up: Add hooks for bags and coats, a small basket for shoes, and a mirror to make the space feel bigger (and more functional).
• Bathroom Refresh: Swap out your shower curtain, add a plant, and organize the countertop for an instant upgrade.
• Bookshelf Beauty: Rearrange your books by color, add a few decorative items, and boom—it’s Pinterest-worthy.

Hack: Choose one project each weekend for easy, low-stress improvements.

Game Day Recipes for the Whole Family

Hosting a big game day gathering or just hanging with your crew? These recipes score every time:

• Sheet Pan Nachos: Layer chips, cheese, and your favorite toppings on a sheet pan. Bake until melty and serve with salsa and guac.
• Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: Mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and buffalo sauce, then bake. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dip.
• Football Brownie Bites: Use cookie cutters to shape brownies into footballs, then pipe on frosting “laces.”

Mom win: These snacks are easy, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for little helpers to assemble.

Managing Screen Time Without the Drama

Screens are a fact of life, but they don’t have to take over. Here’s how to strike a balance:

• Set Clear Limits: Whether it’s 1 hour after school or no screens at dinner, consistent boundaries are key.
• Offer Alternatives: Keep puzzles, board games, or craft supplies handy for easy screen-free activities.
• Use Tech for Good: Try educational apps or family-friendly games that everyone can enjoy together.

Pro tip: Make screens a reward, not a default. It shifts the focus and gives kids something to work toward.

Organizing on a Budget: Tips You’ll Actually Use

You don’t need fancy bins or labels to get organized. These budget-friendly hacks work just as well:

• Dollar Store Finds: Pick up baskets, jars, and containers to organize everything from pantry snacks to craft supplies.
• Repurpose What You Have: Shoeboxes make great drawer organizers, and mason jars are perfect for small items like hair ties or office supplies.
• Command Hook Magic: Use hooks to hang backpacks, utensils, or even pot lids—instant organization with zero commitment.

Hack: Before you buy anything, declutter first. You might realize you don’t need as much storage as you thought.