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We have all been there.  That dreaded moment when we get unsolicited advice from people that think they know best.  Well, tips and suggestions are fine but sometimes given when we really don't want to receive them.  The truth is that tips, suggestions and advice probably really do help us in the biggest job of our life...parenthood.
Another good place to get some help is from parenting magazines.  These provide anything from stories from people going through the same things to kid friendly recipes for those picky eaters.  Next time you are at the grocery store, pick one up and give it a peek.  I bet you will be quick to give the advice next time!

School House Rock!

When we talk about school, we are not talking about the kids.  We are talking about your extraordinary decision to go back to school.  First, let me say, "Good Job!  Way To Go!! You Are Amazing!!!"  Second, I want to offer a little assistance on when and how to find time for classes and homework.  This is coming from a person who has been in your shoes.  

Talk to your family.  If you have made the decision to go back, talking to your husband was probably done right off the bat.  It's not just you this change is going to effect, it is going to change the whole family.  The hubby and kids are going to have to pitch in more and schedules will need to be rearranged.

Get with an advisor.  This will help you figure out exactly what you want to go back for and what classes you need so you do not waste your time with unnecessary classes.  This will also help you narrow down if online, night or weekend classes will work best.  You could even get an elaborate course schedule to keep you on track each semester.

Write it all down.  Once you get your first syllabus go through your calendar and planner and write down all your due dates for assignments, tests and even days off.  Schedule in times you see in the future for studying, reading and homework.
And finally,

GOOD LUCK!!!

Office Space

Whether or not you have seen the movie Office Space, I'm sure at some point you have wanted to yell at a co-worker, boss or computer!  But before you take the bat-to-monitor, do what you can to make your workspace more enjoyable.

Bring in plants.

Put up funny pictures of friends or family that will bring a smile to your face!

Have a motivating quote to keep your morale up.

Have a fan if you get hot or blanket if you get cold.

Make yourself comfortable and have things around that that will make the time you spend at work better!

WORK TO LIVE, 

DON'T LIVE TO WORK!

Fitness

I'm sure you're probably think, "Fitness?!  Are you kidding?! Who has time for that?!" Well, the unfortunate truth is that I AM serious.  Sure we all wish there were more hours in the day.  Sure it seems impossible to fit fitness in your already busy life but think about it... You used to only have yourself to worry about but somehow you managed to add a husband, a house, a job, maybe school, children, activities, a pet... the list goes on and on.  So why not just try to add a fitness regimen?  You could even multitask and make this your You time!

There are many options.

An exercise class before everyone wakes up.
A video you do at home in the morning.
A weekend bike ride or swimming laps.
Even taking time to stretch your body will make you fell better and more energized... we all know that can't hurt!

Remembering to take care of your body, it will ensure that you will be healthy and around longer for your family.

F.H.Y. Time

Family Time
Pick one day (at least) a week when the family commits to hanging out together.  Sitting together at the dinner table is a great start but why not take it one step further.  Get one of those old board games out of the closet and actually play it.  This is a great way to spend quality time together.

Husband Time
Don't forget about the other person that made having this family possible!  It is important that you stay connected to your spouse and have time to check in with each other on how things are going.  Whether it is taking a 15 minute walk or dedicating a date night, make sure you both stay committed and connected to each other.

You Time
The most important time of all, in my opinion.  Without the ability to take care of yourself you will not be able to take care of everyone and everything else.  Take 30 minutes to meditate; even if that means staying up later or waking up earlier. Take a quick walk by yourself or have a book you can escape to for a few minutes a day.  Maintain your sanity and just remember to take time for yourself!  Trust me, everyone will benefit.

Crockpot Meals

Food.com is a great website to find meals that can be made in your crockpot.  All you need is the ingredients and then you just throw those in and dinner will cook while you are gone all day so that you don't have to worry about coming home and figuring out what to make.  Dinner will already be ready!  Can't bet that!

Night Time Prep

A good way to make sure your day starts well and continues that way is to do what you can the night before.

• Have clothes picked and set out
• Know what is for breakfast
• Have book bags packed and ready to go
• Get lunches (if needed) packed and ready
• If there are any after work or after school activities, have clothes and gear ready
• And if your feeling adventurous, put dinner in the crock pot

You are in control of how your day goes, why not give yourself as much prep time and possible!