It’s a day in the life of us.
I love these posts so much!
I don’t know what it is…but these are my favorite posts to read on other people’s blogs and these are the favorite of mine to re-read (reading about a typical day when K & S were little can bring me to tears!!).
For those of you who are new…I almost always do two of these posts a year. I do one during the school year and another during the summer. I randomly pick these days and then just document as we go. Here are some tidbits about this day (which was Monday)…
1: It was a pretty boring day. Ha! I feel like we’ve had a crazy fun summer, but this day was nothing special…and I kind of loved it even more because of it.
2: We were supposed to go swimming on this day, but friends…we woke up to rain and the temps stayed in the high 70s most of the day. What? Yes! Just two weeks ago, we were near 109 and for the better part of this day, we sat around 78. AMAZING!
3: I never officially got out of my gym clothes on this day…so apologies in advance 😉 .
Here we go, a day in the life of us (summer edition!)…
My alarm went off at 5:00, and I was up and ready to go!
But first…coffee. And then…
…Jesus 🙂 . Lately, I’ve been sitting at my kitchen table to do my quiet time (it varies).
After that…
…I was at my desk by 5:30 ready to work for the next hour and a half. On today’s blog…my JULY BOOK REVIEW (so good!!!) and MEAL PLANNING MONDAY.
I published blog comments, answered emails and worked on some vacations. At seven, I got up and…
…put clothes in the dryer before starting a new load in the washing machine. Then, I emptied the dishwasher while this toasted up…
…a Van’s Original Waffle with almond butter and my homemade strawberry jam.
Next, I went to wake up my crew…
…there were two sleeping beauties on that top bunk…
…her hair kills me!
Then, I realized that my giant duck and giant flamingo were about to float down the creek, so I ran out to the yard to pull them up on the patio…
I tried taking a pic, but clearly, they’re too big for selfies!
Whew! Safe on the patio!
When I got back inside, Andrew was home from the gym and then…
…I took out the clothes from the dryer and put the clothes from the washer inside. (Seriously, laundry NEVER ends.)
There was a flurry of bed making, breakfast eating and people getting dressed before we were out the door…
…I haven’t been good about making it to the gym this summer (I’ve been working out at home instead), but we went on Monday. We left the house at 8:00.
Monday vibes.
At the gym, we were early, so I let the kids run around on the indoor track…
…they had so much fun!
I had a few minutes before my class started, so I did this…
And then…
…I had a strength/yoga type class. My normal instructor was off, but I really enjoyed the sub!
I grabbed the kids after, we hopped in the car…
…and it was only 74 degrees!!
We met Erika and her kids at Hat Creek for brunch/lunch.
We love to meet here because the kids can play on their outdoor play ground while we eat. The weather was so nice!!!!
Before I left the gym, I washed my face, put on a clean tee and applied just a little makeup. I mean…it was the best I could do on this day 😉 .
Breakfast taco with spicy salsa for the WIN! I had two 🙂 .
We made it home around noon minus Kensington and plus Bowen and Nixon. While the four big kids played, Madeley and I worked on her speech therapy…
…she’s doing so well!! After we worked on it, she wanted to color before her nap…
Because it was gray and cloudy, I decided to make myself a cappuccino before I hit my desk…
Madeley colored until about 12:45 and then it was nap time! I worked here at my desk while the four big kids played on the driveway. I could hear them talking and laughing the whole time (the window behind looks out on the driveway). I am so grateful those boys are so sweet to Ashby!
I would periodically go out there and say hi, throw them a drink, etc. It was such a beautiful day (weather wise!!). They asked me if we could go “into the woods” together…
Sweet boys! They were having the best time (me too!).
Around 3:00, we switched kiddos back…
…home with my girl 🙂 .
I got me a power snack…
…and worked until 4:30 from my desk while the kids all played inside. At 4:30, I decided to change my view…
…and I worked from my bed on fall recipes. #yesssssssss
Then, it was time to put away laundry.
Andrew came home from work and then, I started dinner…
…Sausage and Peppers that we served over rice! Easy!
We ate dinner and then it was off to clean up and hang out until…
…this guy’s flag football game later that night.
I put away more laundry. #mylife
Then, I realized the house was quiet and we had 30 minutes until we needed to leave for Smith’s game, so…
…I read 🙂 .
We arrived for flag football at 8:00!
We cheered on our boys…
…and then were out of there by 8:50.
Back at home, everyone took showers and then…
…we let Ashby and Smith sleep with us because they had to wake up at 3:30 the next morning to head to New York with Andrew!
Meanwhile, I took a shower and of course, used this…
…anyone else loving the switch to natural deodorant? If you missed my post about it, you can read it HERE.
I also used this…
…obsessed doesn’t begin to describe it! You know I’ve used coconut oil for years to do everything from remove makeup to moisturize to soothe sunburns…it’s a miracle worker. This Kopari is just coconut oil, and I’m on my third jar this summer! Next up, I polished my nails…
…my system is base coat, two layers of polish and top coat.
Done!
With my nails wet, I snuggled into bed next to the two kids and read my Kindle for another 30 minutes before falling asleep (that gave my nails time to dry). I took this pic before I started reading…
…so, I was asleep around 10:30.
That’s a day in the life of us.
To see days from years past, look below…
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
I really like your gym motivation! Getting out of the house, especially to work out, at 8 pm is a total no-go for me. I should take a pointer from you and work out at home instead! Also, your pink laptop case is the cutest! 🙂
–
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Samantha Harris says
My favorite kind of post too!
Nicole says
Ahh, these posts are my fave! No more everyday brownie?! ?
Nicole says
Oh! And green juice! You got me hooked on that years ago, do you still drink those?
Mix and Match Mama says
Hahahaha! I ate one…it just didn’t get a picture. I don’t know why???
Jen says
Tell bnb us about your coffee maker please! What brand? What happened to the nespresso maker?
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s a Jura!
Megan says
We have an older model Jura and as much as I thought it was going to be more than we needed, I have to say I love it.
Amber Raver says
I second this. PLEASE tell us about your coffee maker and your routine/recipes. This is my biggest struggle!
BM says
All I can say is Jura’s are wonderful…and SO worth the investment! I only know how the Z6 model works (what Shay has) but it’s awesome. It’s like having the coffee shop at home!
Denise Noss says
What no brownie? 🙂 LOL
Mix and Match Mama says
I ate it right before my shower…it just somehow didn’t get a photo 😉 .
Megan Dungan says
Can you give us the recipe to the brownie you eat every night? 🙂
Melissa says
Your day looks a lot like my days, BUSY and long, I often say to myself during the day “it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon”. Ha! I love Kopari products too, have you tried the lip balm or face spray?? Have a good day!
Sophia says
I wish you could do these a lot more often! They are just the best and always so fun to read!
Alexis deZayas says
What a day!! You had me cracking up imagining those pool floats floating down the creek 🙂
Sonia says
I was missing the brownie too! LOL
Erika Slaughter says
Ahhhh!!!! My favorite kind of post!! Love peeking into your day-even though I saw you multiple times on Monday! Haha!!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
These posts are a favorite of mine too! That breakfast taco has my mouth watering right now. I like how you paint your nails before bed! I’m always squeezing it in at the most random times myself lol.
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Tabitha says
PHEWWWWWW!!! If THAT was a boring day, I can’t imagine a busy one!! You’re some busy mama!
Tell me, I see you first put clothes into the dryer; how do you manage to keep damp clothes from getting mildew /stinky? Whenever I leave things wet overnight they smell awful.
So impressed with your work ethic while looking great doing it!
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t know? I just think they don’t if they’re only in there over night. Maybe I’m wrong?? Hahaha!
Elizabeth says
These are my favorite posts! I vote that instead of 2 a year you do 1 every season! 🙂 I am agreeing with the comment above and would love the recipe for your nightly brownie haha.
Darcey says
Any chance you’ve written “a day in the life” of going from 1 to 2 kids?? I’m about to go from easy days with a 2 year old to adding a newborn to the mix and I could use all the advice!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m pretty sure that period in my life was a complete blur. I don’t think I had my wits about me to write a post like that. That being said, IT GOES BY SO FAST!! Enjoy every crazy, messy, tired moment of it!
DANIELLE K RIGG says
LOVE seeing a day in the Shull’s. I have read in your blogs how canning is your new hobby, what about Mason Jar Salads, Morning Oats? I am thinking of giving that a try.
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
These are my favorite type of posts, too!! No shame in staying in your workout clothes all day haha!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Christy says
Hello! I am planning on a day trip to that area… We want to do Hat Creek for lunch and thinking about the Coop for the kids to play. Any other suggestions for things to do? I have a 7, 6, and 2 year old. 🙂 Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
You know, they’re not very close to each other, so I would probably do Play Street Museum in McKinney instead. It’s literally right around the corner from Hat Creek.
Erin Port says
What a fun day and I always love reading these too!
Paige Wright says
I saw someone else asked about your coffee maker ha! First thing I wanted to ask since I have been looking at Jura coffee machines for a year now and have not made the plunge! Which one is yours and is it worth the money for it’s awesomeness?:) I’m breaking soon, I’m sure of it hahaha!
Stacie says
How do you keep your house so clean with 4 kiddos, I only have two and I constantly feel like I’m picking up. Would love to read about your cleaning routine including deep cleaning and everyday cleaning. I need alllll the tips!
Mix and Match Mama says
Well, I have someone who comes in and actually does the hard cleaning (mopping, dusting, etc). As for picking up? It’s all I do. All day long. I feel like I’m always picking things up or telling the kids to pick things up. We pick up a lot. Like all the time.
Elspeth Mizner says
I love your day in the life posts!! They are my favorite to read!!
Paige Wright says
I was going to ask the same thing about your coffee maker:) I have been looking at Jura for a year now and have not made the plunge! Which model do you have and will I absolutely love it?:) haha
Ann Marie Tennison says
Such a great day you all had!! Looked like fun. About to head to the gym- see ya soon!!
Jennifer says
What do you use the coconut oil for?
Mix and Match Mama says
EVERYTHING! It takes off my makeup, it’s my body moisturizer, it heals burned skin…it’s the best!
Cara Beth Couch says
Can you link your Kindle and Kindle case? I’m looking to buy one. Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s a paperwhite and a basic paperwhite case from Amazon!
Annie says
Which washer and dryer set to do you have, and do you love them? We are in the market for new and I haven’t shopped for a set in since before we got married twelve years ago. A lot has changed!
Mix and Match Mama says
They’re Whirlpool and yes!!
Sara says
Have you tried the Kopari natural deodorant? I just started using it this week, but I am not sure if it is a win yet.
Sara says
Do you know the name/ designer of the wallpaper in your office? It is So cute and fun!
Mix and Match Mama says
Eeeks! I don’t??? I’m sorry!!
Patricia says
You said the funniest thing “At the gym, we were early, so I let the kids run around …”. In what world does someone with four kids ever get ANYWHERE EARLY? Must be some potent magic in your expresso…
Mix and Match Mama says
Hahahaha!
Liz says
Please tell me your secret to not ruining your nails while you sleep!
Mix and Match Mama says
Practice 🙂 . I read for about 30 minutes, so they were dry by then!
Angie says
Speaking of nails…..did you know that nail polish has formaldehyde (and other bad stuff) in it? Just mentioning this because you posted about switching from deodrants with all the nasty stuff in them, and because we are slowly getting rid of all the bad stuf around our house also. I’ve recently tried the Native deodrant and love it!
Mary says
Anyyyytime you want to link your specific workout pieces, I’ll be clicking! 😉 I love Athleta but we don’t have a store nearby. It’s nice to know what others like so that I know I’m ordering a winner! 🙂
Kate Landry says
I second this! Shay, do you happen to know the style of your long-sleeved top? It’s such a good color!!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s from this past winter. I don’t think they make it any longer. It was Athleta!
BM says
It’s the Open Back Flexlight Top- I have the exact same one! Some are on sale at Athleta right now for roughly $22!
Mix and Match Mama says
Bam! You’re good, Bryanna! Thank you!
Sarah D. says
This is a random question-but love your placemats on your kitchen table! Where did you get them?
Mix and Match Mama says
At a store on our square!
Coreline says
So just curious .. now that you’ve flipped to sleeping an hour later, are you turning lights out around 10.30pm and feeling okay energy wise the rest of the day? My kids have early morning swim practice all summer so they are in the water at 6pm, my 5am wake up calls are killing me 🙁
Mix and Match Mama says
I am like a new person. I had no idea how tired I was! The extra hour has seriously changed my life!
Ashley Hall says
I love these posts of yours! Quick question – what pot/pan did you use to make the sausage and peppers? I’m on the hunt for new pots and pans!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s a Le Creuset!
Mary says
Do you ever let your kids sleep in and wake up on their own during the summer or just always wake them up at a certain time?
Mix and Match Mama says
All the time! Which is why I think I’ve only gone to the gym three times this summer 🙂 .
Brittney says
I’ve started using the Primal Pit Paste (LOVE IT!) and just did a detox for a week and jumped right in! I didn’t order the charcoal daily detox…wonder if I should!?
Sue says
How do you take your coffee in the morning? What do you put in it? Is it a latte?
Mix and Match Mama says
Typically in my AM coffee, one Truvia and a splash of cream.
Kristy says
What type of camera do you use?
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s a Cannon, but it’s old. I probably need to update it.
Courtney says
The fact that you (or anybody else) can wash, dry, fold and put away laundry all in one day amazes me 🙂
Marla Slaughter says
Love these!! 2 things!! I’m on the hunt for a coffee maker and was interested in yours?! And… I noticed Smith’s pillowcase!!!!! That was a fun project and I was excited to know he actually uses it!!! ❤️❤️
Chrys says
Jealous of the fact that you wake up to only 5 emails. How?! I currently have 5,000 unread emails! #disaster Love these posts that you do!! Also, I have a DeLonghi Automatic Espresso machine and I will never go back to regular coffee “drip” coffee. It is a true life changer! Have a great rest of the week Shay 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
Well, that’s not my only inbox…so, that helps 😉 .
AmandaG says
This. I have an email that I use for stores and promotions. Whenever I go to the stores I can just jump in to that email to check out coupons. But I don’t get notifications. Also my work email is separate too. The few things I have that go to my personal email get filtered through Google which is very helpful to me. But it allows me to only get notified about important things like stuff from the kids school, my husband or friends.
Julie says
You are super mom! I am so impressed with how much you get done on an average day. Your love for being with your family shows through! I have three kids (8,10,12) and a few years ago, I started doing ALL the laundry on ONE day. I know this sounds crazy, but it was kind of amazing to have it done and then have “off” for six more days. I used to pick Sundays (when weather was cooler) and I’d just go through it from am till pm. Also started having the bigger kids put away their own folded laundry to eliminate a step. Anyway, just thought I’d suggest it in case you want to try? (Might be harder with four kids I guess!). Also, now that it’s summer and we’re at the Cape most weekends, I’m back on the plan of doing laundry every second of every day. Sigh. Here’s to laundry! Thanks for posting, these are my MOST favorite posts of all.
Patty Anderson says
Random, but I have the same washer/dryer as you and I’m so disappointed that the detergent I use gunks up on dark clothing…no matter what detergent I use. Do you ever have that trouble? I always do an extra rinse but still have to check everything carefully before putting it in the dryer.
Love your day in the life posts!
Mix and Match Mama says
I haven’t ever noticed that. I use Tide pods.
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
I love your day in the life posts!! And I laughed about your giant floats flying away…I feel like rescuing pool floats is an everyday occurrence over here!
That Inspired Chick
Shelley Holden says
2 questions…is your cute Boo recipes book just a custom cover notebook from Erin Condren and which camera do you have when you were taking a pic of your dinner? Love these day in the life posts….I vote for one a season too!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes, you’re right about the cover! And I have a Cannon that is old (I probably need a new one!).
Amy says
Do a vlog! Do a vlog! I actually think your family and family of friends should have your own television show.
Such fun posts and pics all the time
You bring joy to many
Courtney says
Hi Shay!
Love these posts – thanks for sharing! Could you do a post about clothes and how you decide to rotate items in and out of your closet/wardrobe each season/year? Also, do you pair things together a week ahead of time and set outfits out to wear? How do you keep track of what all you have in your closet when you buy new items?
XO
Courtney
Haley Southey says
I LOVE these posts too! So fun seeing how everyone lives their day-to-day!!
http://www.cupcakesandsunshine.com
Linnea says
I can totally relate to the fact that the laundry never ends in my house as well. What type of washer/dryer do you have and do you love it?
Mix and Match Mama says
They’re Whirlpool and yes!
Shannon says
I was exhausted just reading about your day!! WOW! My question is — when in that schedule do you get yourself ready in the morning (clothes, hair, make-up)? Where does that fit in timing-wise, and how do you get ready with all your kiddos? I have one and I am never alone in the bathroom… LOL!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Shannon…did you see me? I didn’t on that day! Ha! On a normal day (when I do get myself together), I always shower and do that after I workout (typically from home). I like to get ready early in the day (if I’m going to get ready).
Dana says
Love these posts! 2 random questions for you:
-Does your nail polish chip? I love my nails painted, but I hate that they get ruined so quickly from all my handwashing and dishes. Also, do you use regular nail polish remover to take it off? I always feel like it’s terrible for us because it smells so strong and really don’t like to use it.
-What is the difference between the coconut melt and coconut oil? Do you think it’s worth the difference in price if someone is on a strict budget? You and Sheaffer make it look so fun!
Mix and Match Mama says
Mine do chip! I polish them every 6 days or so (sometimes a week!). I use regular remover to take it off because it’s just the easiest. I like the melt because it’s just regular coconut oil (like the kind you buy at the grocery store) and is not always liquid (if it gets hot, it liquefies and then gets hard again, but doesn’t stay liquid).
Nicole says
Are your big kids always good about giving you time to work during what used to be their nap time? Do they still have a quiet time? Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
They’re so independent now! They play in their rooms, play with each other…I mean, it’s not always quiet and calm, but they do a great job playing.
Leanne Gilchrist says
Okay, first, I love these posts. Next, the bowl/plate that your waffle is in is GORGEOUS! Where is it from? 75 degrees in your area at this time of year? Wow. We just got a break in our almost 100 degree days…..and Madeley’s hair when she got up! It’s all so fun and so great that you let us have a look into your life! I have a couple of requests: will you post about Ashby and Madeley’s bunk beds, like where you got them, how you like them, etc?? And also, I’d love to see a post all about Smith’s clothes and the brands that are your favorite for him and where you get them. Although I do have 7 girls, I do have a 4 year old boy, Jack, and he needs some stuff!! So, a couple of ideas for you. Again, reading your blog is one of the highlights of my day.
Mix and Match Mama says
Leanne, thank you so much! Your sweet comment made my day (and your topic ideas were fantastic too!)!
Kristen Taylor says
I would love to know about your coffee maker! My husband and I have been on the hunt for over a year to find a good one to replace our Kuerig that I really am not convinced is healthy for us or the environment (ie. plastic pods). Looks like a fantastic cup of coffee and cappuccino!
Karen says
Love these posts!! Try the Cuccio Nail Dehydrator before your base coat…. love this stuff!!
Kary says
I’m cracking up that I’m not the only one who missed your nightly brownie. We’ve clearly read a lot of these! 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
Darn! Why didn’t I take a picture of it!!! Hahahaha!
Sheaffer Sims says
Sounds like a perfect day to me! But I’m unfamiliar with the idea of doing laundry all day long. I just look at mine and then walk away.
Mix and Match Mama says
This is why I love you so much! 😉
Christine says
No Brownie Shay? I love how routine you are in the morning! My schedule is all over the place so Wednesday’s and Saturday’s are laundry days for us! I get up early too and that helps for better consistency.
Grace says
Hi Shay,
Love these posts!
Do your kids ever fight with each other when you are trying to get work done or read?
This happens to me all the time and I’m constantly interrupted. Any tips?
Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
Of course! I think the older they get, the easier it gets. Summers are tricky when everyone’s at home, but I still have work to do.
Carly says
Shay, these posts are just my favorite! I second the one a season. Thank you for reminding me to love the boring simple days. Always appreciate you sharing!
jamie says
I LOVE your day in the life posts! Another vote to for you to do them more often 🙂 Thank you so much for sharing your life with us, I just love following your blog!
Ali Bishop says
Okay i think you solid me on the yellow apple watch band…. do you have the lemonade apple watch brand band or the amazon pollen band??
Mix and Match Mama says
The Apple one!
Jen says
What bunk beds do you have?
Mix and Match Mama says
They’re from Pottery Barn!
Lauren says
Love these posts! Just a question, since it’s so hot in Texas how come you don’t hang washing outside on a line to dry? I’m in Australia and in summer no-one uses dryers. Just curious!
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t know? No one really does that! I don’t even have a line!
Elizabeth Moore says
Woah if this is a boring day, I’d hate (actually LOVE!) to see your busy day ha! Thanks for sharing your family life! Your nannies and housekeeping staff must be great! Lucky you!
Mix and Match Mama says
They’re fantastic! They’re me 🙂 . Unfortunately, they don’t get paid anything.
Lisa Widner says
Besides speech therapy help do you spend time with your three year old or do you have a nanny? I literally can’t let my three year old daughter out of sight, she gets into everything!
Mix and Match Mama says
I do not have a nanny and she is practically glued to me most of the time. Out of all four kiddos, she’s the most “stuck to mommy” (Kensington would come in second place). I do think it’s so much easier with so many because they play and entertain each other. She’s almost four, so I think we’re past that “get into everything” problem. The first year we had her (when she was two), it was like playing “whack a mole”. She was constantly into everything and I couldn’t get her out of one thing before she got into something else.
Anna says
What is so special about Kopari compared to the coconut oil you’ve used in the past?
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s the same! It’s just coconut oil (not additives!!).
Karah Stracener says
Do you dry all your girls clothes? I hang up almost all of their stuff and it’s such a pain. I worry stuff will fade/shrink in the dryer. Do you see that happening? What about all the Matilda Jane clothes, do you dry them?
Mix and Match Mama says
I do not dry any of their MJ stuff. I lay it all out to dry.
Southern & Style says
These posts are my absolute favorites! I need to remember to do one of these (we’re expecting our first baby in just a few weeks, so I think it would be fun to do one last one before he arrives!), but I always start out strong and then forget during the day-I’ll have to try to be more diligent!
xoxo, SS
Southern and Style
DetroitDuchess says
Hotter than you Pink was my pick for my summer favorites last year – such a fun color. I feel like neon pink is always right for summer!