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I'm Shay! I’m a cookbook author, lifestyle blogger, travel agency owner, wife and mama who loves making every day special for my family.

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Mix & Match Mama

Everyday Life ·

A Day in the Life of Us. {02.04.19}


It’s A Day in the Life of Us.

I know I say this all the time, but these posts (and beauty posts) are my favorite to read on other people’s blogs.  I don’t know why, but I’m fascinated in the inter-working of random people’s lives.  #callmecrazy

On Monday, I decided to document one of our days.  Nothing special, pretty typical, kind of boring and exactly how I like them.  Here you go…

My alarm went off at 4:40.  I dragged myself out of bed, said hello to Andrew who was already awake, made a cup of coffee and then…

…sat down to do my quiet time.  I’m loving this Bible study book by Beth Moore.

After that, I flipped on the news in my office and sat down to do a little work starting with…

…checking on my blog posts for the day.  That Trader Joe’s post was HUGE y’all.  All the comments MADE ME SO HAPPY!!  While I was working, Andrew texted me to listen to…

…The Ticket.  It’s a sports radio station here in Dallas, and they are hysterical! They were recapping the Super Bowl, so I flipped off the news and listened a bit.  At 6:00, I got up to…

…finish off lunches.  This year, I have been making my big three a hot lunch every day.  Thanks to your tips, I bought them these Thermoses and am heating them for 10 minutes with boiling water.  While that was happening, I made my breakfast…

…one scrambled egg with that Everything But the Bagel Seasoning, toasted Brioche with homemade peach jam and Green Juice (all from my Trader Joe’s post, ironically).

…this Green Juice is my fave!

For lunch on Monday, I didn’t have leftovers, so I made the big three this to go in their Thermoses…

At 6:30, it was time to wake the masses…

…two out of four of my sweet morning faces.

The pups were waking up too 🙂 .

I grabbed a quick pic with Andrew as he came home from the gym.

After the kiddos ate and got dressed, I sat down with Ashby to do her homework before school…

…always just so HAPPY!

Before we knew it, everyone was sitting on the floor and helping with her homework…

…what?  You’re leaning on me?  I’ll make this goofy face then…

#allthepeeps

Madeley Moo was all smiles while I got her breakfast together…

…she doesn’t go to school on Mondays, so she got to have a lazier morning.

Andrew stayed home with M, while I drove the big three to school…

…we had a freaky weird warm day.  Smith was all “I get to wear shorts in February?!?”.  Yes.  Yes, you do.

This was Ashby’s first day back at school after her procedure, so I parked and walked her into school.  After that, I went home to…

…suffer greatly on my Peloton.  It doesn’t matter how often I do this thing, it always kills me!  I did Emma’s 30 minute 80s Pop Ride.  #madonnaanyone

When I was done, I went inside because we had been anxiously awaiting this to air…

…the Peppa Pig episode where she celebrates the Chinese New Year!  Woohoo!  Madeley was so excited!  We set the DVR so that the big kids could catch it later.

Just a girl in Moana pajamas watching Peppa Pig talk about the Chinese New Year 🙂 .

She watched and I showered and got ready for the day.

After that, we said bye to Andrew and I…

…sat down to do some work while Madeley played.  We had a play date at 10:15, so I grabbed a few minutes of work in before we left.

Just a girl and her cheese.  She wanted cheese…and I couldn’t say no.

Before the play date, we stopped…

…at the grocery store so I could pick up a prescription and because we’re so lucky…

…grabbed a Starbucks coffee too because it’s also inside.  A Venti for the play date?  Yes, please!

We met five other mamas and their kiddos at Hat Creek for breakfast tacos and playing.  This place is amazing!  We sat outside and ate while the kids ran around on the play ground (and ate too).  When we got there, M was not happy because she was ready to eat her breakfast tacos and they weren’t ready yet…

…I make that same face when I’m anxiously awaiting my breakfast tacos too.

Madeley and Hadley looooooove them some baby Violet.  Violet is always the star of the show!!

After we ate and played, we came home and it was time for this stinker to take a nap.  First up though…

…we always sit in her beanbag chair and read a story.

After her story, she napped and I…

…went back to work.  I love what I do, friends.  I feel like it’s such a blessing every time I sit down at my desk and talk to people about vacations.

At about 2:20, I faced the pile…

…sort, fold, sort, fold, sort, fold, repeat.  And then put away.

Then, I went to wake up Madeley…

…rise and shine!

On Mondays, the littles have speech, so Madeley goes first at 2:50, and then I grab the big kids from school and the girls switch…

…all the speech stuff!

Why is it so hot in February?

Since the weather was warm and their homework was done, these two…

…wanted to play outside after school.  I told them they had to be back inside by 5:00.

I made myself a little snack and then went outside…

…this girl was playing volleyball and this girl…

…wanted to ride her bike.  I sat down to watch and read…

…ahhhh!  #happiness

Then, Madeley and I went inside so I could start thinking about dinner…

…I have this little board by my stove where I write down what we’re having every night.

On this night, I made WHITE CHICKEN CHILI in my Instant Pot...

 

I shredded this cheese to add on top.  So good!

Here’s an iPhone pic of my bowl.  Give me @allthetoppings…

…you can see the recipe HERE.

Oh hey there, Ashby!  Ready to eat?

Dinner ’round the table with my peeps!

After we ate, we cleaned up because K had tumbling and Smith had basketball practice.  I took the girls and Andrew took Smith.  Look what we saw on the way there…

…a cotton candy sky 🙂 .  So cool!

We picked up Presley for tumbling and the five of us headed inside for their lesson.

So much energy!!

I watched and read my book.

After that, we all came home, showered and got ready for bed.

Ashby has a dress up game on her iPad, so the two girls played that until the boys were showered.  Then…

…I read a bit more until…

…we started America’s Got Talent!

 

I love it when all six of us sit down to watch something as a family!

We didn’t watch all of it (saved it the rest for Tuesday night), put the kiddos to bed and then…

…Andrew flipped on the TV and I read a book before going to sleep.  I took one last screenshot before calling it a night…

…that’s a day in the life of us, friends.

One last little thing, I miscarried my first pregnancy in June 2007.  My due date was February 7th…and not a February 7th has gone by that I don’t remember that baby.  Today (or around this time at least) would have been his/her 11th birthday.  For those of you who have recently suffered a miscarriage and are struggling, please know that I’m sorry and stopping right now, this morning, this February 7th, to pray for each one of you.  I’m really sorry for your loss. xo

To see days from years past, look below…

July 2018

February 2018

July 2017

January 2017

November 2016

July 2016

April 2016

February 2016

November 2015

June 2015

June 2014

January 2014

May 2013

December 2012

November 2010

June 2009

January 2009

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Comments

    • Leigh says

      What is your bedtime routine for the kids, specifically the littles? Bedtimes? Wake up times?? Do they sleep through the night? How did you get them to sleep through the night?????

      • Mix and Match Mama says

        You know, they’re great sleepers! They go to bed around 8:30 and then get up at 6:30. They all really do sleep well (but they’re older, so I know that helps!).

  2. Beth Knecht says

    One of my students gave me a little gift-folded oragami two dollar bill and told me Happy Chinese New Year on Monday! It made me think of your sweet family!

  4. Brooke Retherford says

    Your post had me so happy until the end. I am so sorry for your loss. It’s got to be the hardest thing a mom has to go through. Today, February 7, is my sons 2nd birthday. I already planned on hugging him extra tight today but now I’m going to stop and thank God for his blessing and how fleeting it is to be able to have a child in this world.

  6. AnnalieseAnna says

    What’s your current go-to drink at Starbucks?? After the fall and christmas drinks, I’m still looking for something new. Just been sticking to black coffee to make up for some of the pumpkin spice/peppermint mocha calories!!

  7. Sarah Shaneyfelt says

    I love these kinds of posts! Have you tried any of the other Peloton classes like the yoga or bootcamp type classes? They look like they would be challenging, but really good! Thank you for mentioning what today is for you–that will forever be December 28th for me.
    MeetTheShaneyfelts

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Yes!!! I do them all the time! Peloton Yoga is AMAZING!!!! Sending you love this morning, Sarah. xo

  9. Carly says

    Shay, you remind me to love the boring days. Praying for you a little extra today….Happy Thursday, our favorite day of the week!

  12. Amy D. says

    I love A Day In My life posts too, they are definitely my favorite.

    I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts & prayers are with you today and always. *hugs*

  13. Gardner Story says

    Thank you for being open about your miscarriage! I’ve had one and what helped me grieve through it was reading other peoples stories (including yours!) Also, do you watch the Bachelor? I sort of assumed so. 🙂

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I don’t watch it anymore. To be fair though, I stopped watching a lot of reality TV like Survivor and Amazing Race too. Now, I still love my Real Housewives, but I stopped watching NJ and Atlanta. I’ve really been trying to read more and watch less.

  14. Meredith says

    Absolutely love these posts! Your home is so cozy and inviting. I love seeing your days and beautiful family! Ps, what is up with this crazy warm weather?! I’m in Houston 🙂

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Ohhhhhh…I go back and forth. I like the extra 20 minutes now that we’re doing homework in the morning. I would say that I’m about 50/50 for 4:40 or 5:00.

  19. JenniM says

    Would you share which white nail polish you are wearing in the coffee pic? It’s hard to find an opaque white that is shiny and doesn’t have that dreaded White-Out appearance! 🙂

  20. Mother Henn says

    I once read a quote from a mama who miscarried that said, “I’ll hold you in my heart until I hold you in heaven”. That has always stuck with me. Hope maybe it eases your pain a little today.

  21. Kelli says

    Which case did you get to go with your Kindle (and are you happy with it)? I remember you asking for suggestions awhile back.

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I ended up buying the new waterproof Paperwhite instead! I have just boring/normal case, but now, I can sit by the pool/in the tub without fear of it getting wet.

  22. Tish Ferry says

    I just love these posts so much! Your family is so precious and it’s always fun to see how others “do” life. Thank you for your sharing your heart today. We have two babies in heaven and talk about them often to our four kiddos. They are excited to meet them someday too! Praying for you today, sweet friend. Much love to you!
    Simply Tish

  23. Julie says

    I love these posts! Your family is adorable. My nine year old son has been in a reading rut and I got him ‘Dog Man’ based on Smith’s recommendation. Well, he LOVES them! I just had to place them all on hold at our library as he’s flying through them. So please thank Smith and tell him he made my son’s week.

  24. Bev says

    So sweet of you to remember those who have miscarried. My date is January 13th and our daughter was born the following January 11th. She just turned 40 and is a beautiful gift from God, along with her brother born two years later. Beauty from ashes.

  25. Elspeth Mizner says

    Love your day in the life posts. Question- are you back to waking up at 4:30 every morning after switching last year to 5? What has that transition been like? Have a great day and thinking about you and your little one in heaven!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Now that the kids are doing homework in the morning, I’ve been going back and forth between 5:00 and 4:40 depending on what we have to do that day. That extra 20 really gives me some extra homework time on some mornings.

  27. ~B~ says

    Thinking of you today. This day has a special memory for my husband and I, followed by a heartbreaking loss a few years later on this same day. I’ll always remember you in my special 2/7 thoughts.

  28. Beth Valenta says

    I love these kind of posts too! But…not going to lie, I think I buy something every time you show what you are wearing. Those wedge tennis shoes are on their way!

  30. JenniM says

    Sorry, I thought of another question 🙂 How would you describe the flavor of that greens juice you like? I have tried powder packets that you mix with water before and was not a fan, but this one looks more promising! Also, what benefits do you feel you get from drinking greens other than energy?

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Like lettuce. Is that a flavor? That’s what it tastes like! It’s smooth (not chalky or grainy) and tastes like…lettuce.

  31. Brandye says

    I lost a baby in September, 1993. I was due in April, 1994. He/She would turn 25 this year. I feel what you feel. My other two are grown and doing well. I am oh-so-thankful for them both! However, I’m not sure the feeling you have today will ever go away. Praying for your mama heart. Please also pray for Christy. She’s my son’s best friend’s sister. She has struggled with fertility, gotten pregnant twice, and lost both babies.

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Thank you for sharing your story, Brandye. I”m sure after 25 years, February 7 will still sting for me too. It really never goes away.

  32. Jacqui says

    I love that you have your “baby it’s cold outside” cup on the 80 degree day! But it’s so cute, it can’t just be for winter 🙂

    Thinking of you today, and another friend whose loss I just recently learned of <3

  33. Lolly says

    I’m so sorry for your loss, so many women suffer in silence instead of leaning on others for support. And given that 1 in 3 pregnancies end in miscarriage, many women have felt that devastation. You’ve talked a lot about your infertility struggles and, in the way you talk about it, I thought it meant that your journey was over a couple years. Believe me, I know that no amount of time is easy when you desperately want a baby. But I thought the clinical definition of infertility, especially at your age at the time, is not conceiving in over a year. Maybe I have the math wrong but Kensington was born 7 months after your first pregnancy’s due date. I had a years-long battle with fertility and, honestly, while I’m not claiming you didn’t have struggles or diminishing your pain during that 7 months, it upsets me that you use infertility as a central tenet of your blog and declare Kensington a miracle baby.

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Well, I appreciate you asking. I don’t know what the clinical definition is, but after trying and trying on our own, we sought the help of my OBGYN who wasn’t able (with drugs) to help us, so I then started seeing a doctor at a Fertility Clinic. From there, I had six IUIs between May and December of 2007. The first IUI worked and I got pregnant, then miscarried. The other 5 IUIs did not work. I decided to move forward with IVF, but got pregnant with Kensington right before I started. All together, I tried to get pregnant for two years. I don’t know how long is the right number, but two years, one miscarriage a D&C and 6 IUIs certainly felt like a long road.

      • Liz Thorson says

        Shay, you are so lovely and gracious in your response to comments from people who question something you’ve said. You are never defensive or snippy. Thank you for always taking the high road and always acknowledging the hurt and sadness your followers are experiencing.❤️
        I am hoping Ashby’s latest proceedure will bring her some relief from the pain she endures.❤️

      • Danielle says

        Shay, it makes me sad that you even have to defend your experience. As a fellow and current infertility-road-traveler, I know that there are no pain awards. Someone else’s pain doesn’t diminish yours. Whenever you share about your infertility journey, I am encouraged to see women commenting who are either in the midst of the journey or are on the other side. Please don’t let infertility gate-keepers (A gate-keeper is someone who takes it upon his/her self to decide who does or does not have access or rights to a community or identity.) discourage you from sharing the work God has done in your life! (You don’t have to publish this comment…just wanted you to know that your experience and feelings are validated and appreciated without any judgement!)

  34. Genevieve says

    Thank you for your closing remarks..it brought tears to my eyes bc I have very recently gone through a miscarriage. I am a daily reader and love each post. You are so thoughtful and kind. Thank you for being you.

  35. Taylor says

    I just want to say that I love how you find joy in every day. Making time for things that make you happy is so important. I am praying for you today and all of the other women who are going through the same thing. I say this often to my mom and friends but I was 19 when I started reading your blog, I’m now 23, and I often think of you as my big sister that I never had?? call me crazy but it’s true. Haha

  36. Dawn Scheurich says

    Thank you for being sensitive to miscarriage and loss… Both my daughters have each had 2 ectopic pregnancies resulting in infertility for both of them. It’s a very sad and difficult road, and I know they appreciate anyone who prays for them and understands! My oldest daughter has actually started an infertility support group to help others walking the same path, so I would love prayers for each of those ladies too!

    Also, the Chinese New Year Peppa Pig episode just made me smile!!

  39. talia says

    Sending you love and a hug! Can you tell me where you found the Moana jammies please? My two year old granddaughter is obsessed and I’d love to surprise her with them when I visit next week. Thank you!

  40. DANIELLE K RIGG says

    Love these posts. Our family has been enjoying the show The Masked Singer. You have to guess who is singing behind the mask. They give you clues. It is so much fun for all. Have a blessed day 🙂

  41. Paige says

    Shay, I just want to say very quickly… I think it’s so awesome how you respond to questions and comments, and always in a such a pleasant way! You really come across as so genuine, and kind. 🙂

  42. Diane says

    As a speech language pathologist working with cute kiddos like yours for over thirty years, thanks for acknowledging the role this service provides in a child’s development. All the best from this SLP/Grandma in Waco?!

  43. Sarah G says

    Thinking of you today and saying a prayer for those who have lost a precious baby. My day is 3/8 and he/she would’ve been 11 yrs old also. Thank you for always being so purposeful in praying for others. It is a good reminder for me to do the same.

  44. Shawnee says

    Extra prayers for you today. My first pregnancy ended in a miscarriage in Jan of 2000. I got pregnant again pretty quickly (totally not even trying) and Tucker was born at 32wks on Sept 5…..the due date of my first pregnancy.

  46. Leslie S says

    Thank you Shay for reminding us that it’s ok to never forget. Thank you for reality – blessings mixed with joy and gratitude but also truth and hurt and healing. November 4 was 11 years here. ??? Thankful for my blessings.

  48. Danielle says

    It’s the simple day-to-day life that is the best! I loved this post! Thank you for sharing!

    Also, prayers for all the mama’s who have lost a little one.

  50. Felicia Nguyen says

    Happy YEAR of the Pig ?!! You can pick up these red envelope at the Asian market near where u live and fill it with 1.00 or 5.00 but make sure it is a BRAND new bill!! It’s for LUCK. I gave my kids all a red envelope to give to their teachers as a form of luck.
    Chinese New Year is called “tet”
    Happy TET to your 2 lil girl ?

  51. Lindsay says

    I love these posts! And thanks for being so open and honest about your struggles. It is something that so many of us experience and I do think it helps just a little to hear others’ experiences. I actually miscarried on Halloween last year when I thought I was 10.5 weeks along. (Baby quit growing at 7 weeks 6 days) It was devastating, but I also miscarried before our daughter was born (in 2014), so I never lost faith or hope. I’m pregnant again and just had my first ob appointment this morning and got to see a healthy heartbeat! It was very emotional. I know we aren’t out of the woods yet, but it is comforting to know others have gone through similar circumstances. Thanks again.

  52. Jenny Krieger says

    That’s encouraging how you shared that you still think of your Angel Baby each year! I do too – My date is March 4th. Sending hugs. ❤️

  53. Krista says

    I am so impressed you like listening to The Ticket too! My day wouldn’t be complete without the Musers in the Morning and it’s always awesome to find another woman who likes a sports radio station! My girlfriends always turn their noses up at it, but they have NO IDEA what fun they are missing out on…it’s the best station in town. Thanks for sharing!

  54. Kathleen says

    Hi Shay, I LOVE and read your blog every day but this is the first time I’ve commented. Your last comment at the end of your post gave me chills as I had my first miscarriage on October 5, 2018… a memory that has lived in my thoughts every day. My baby would have been due on May 10, 2019. That was the hardest thing I have ever gone through and I’d like to say I’m stronger (I hope!) and more sensitive toward others who have experienced such a painful loss. I am happy to say that I just hit 12 weeks this past Sunday, and while I’m still cautious/scared/guarded (and every other nervous emotion), my husband and I are extremely excited about the little one I’m carrying. I have been so thankful for all your posts, especially the ones about the losses you faced while trying to get pregnant and your faith as they truly helped during a very dark time in my life. Your encouraging and humble attitude are extremely infectious and well received. Thank you!!! 🙂

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Congratulations, Kathleen! I am so, so, so sorry for your loss, but I’m ecstatic that you’re expecting again. God bless you and your new little one!

  55. kellie carrara says

    Love the day in the life…busy, but relaxed, too!
    We had a crazy warm day too on Tuesday in Boston. Yay for no coats in February!
    I miscarried my first baby Feb. 18 15 years ago, and yes, remember that every year. It took 2 more times, but I have a happy, healthy 14 year old daughter. It’s hard, thanks for sharing your story.

      • Genevieve says

        Shay, I’m so sorry for your loss! Your home is so lovely. How do you manage to keep your kitchen counters so clean and clutter free with 4 children? It’s SO hard for me to do that and I’m an empty nester. Any tips to share?

  56. Amanda says

    I have followed your precious family for many years and I love seeing normal posts like this. I also love how open you are about your struggles with your miscarriage. My forever date is September 23rd. Lost our first baby at 13 weeks. We are now blessed with an almost 3 year old. Praying for your momma heart today.

  60. Laurel M says

    I’m so sorry to read about the anniversary of your miscarriage. I love and hate that I remember the dates I tested positive, first heard a heartbeat, and ultimately miscarried on May 4th 2017. I now have a happy beautiful 9 month old and feel ridiculously blessed 🙂 I’m also so humbled to read many other women’s experiences in the comments section. I know the pain and I wish we could all cry and hug and not feel alone about it. btw what is tumbling?

  61. Kimberly Penson says

    Sweet Mama I lift You up today in prayer. Thank you for sharing and inspiring so many women. Young Mama’s and 49 year old Mama’s like me. Prayers to all those who have sweet babies in heaven.

  64. Kelli Purser says

    I love Trader Joe’s fried rice! I get the vegetable one and crack some eggs on top and scramble them in for the protein. It makes it sooooo much better and it’s so easy!! I also like to add seasoning on top. Even just a season all/seasoning salt.

  65. Kelly Buffington says

    A Day in the Life is my hands down favorite post! It brings back very fond memories of when my children were elementary/preschool age. Madeley in the morning is too cute for words:). And, as always, you are so humble and gracious in your responses. Thank you, Shay, for sharing your life with us.

  66. Kacy says

    I was tired after reading this! HAHA!I try to make the most out of my day too, even on the weekends!

  67. Sarah says

    I love TJ fried rice. I like to scramble up an egg or two and add, along with some cooked and shredded chicken breast – really beefs up the protein. I’ll also add a touch of sesame oil. Tastes just like PF Chang’s!

  68. Kimberly C says

    I love your day in the life posts! You are a true testament in how to make the most of your time — something I struggle with frequently ? so it’s nice to see another busy mom and all that she can accomplish in a day to get my rear in gear.

    “And to think when their little eyes open, the first thing they see is the face of Jesus.” I found this quote on Pinterest a few years after my miscarriage. When I think of what he/she would be like now, it doesn’t take the sting away but helps a little to know they are absolutely living their best life.

  69. Whitney says

    Ashby looks so sweet. Do you ever find yourself dealing with fear/anxiety before appointments or procedures? If so, how do you deal? My son has a heart condition that requires annual check ups, and I find myself riddled with anxiety the days leading up to the appointment.

  70. Sonia says

    God bless you Shay – for sharing, for your grace in responding to comments, for being a good example and for sharing your faith so fearlessly! You are a true influence and inspiration! I hope you know that today and every day. As a reader/follower and a momma – your posts make me smile, cry, laugh and love! You remind me to be grateful, to be kind, and to be positive!

  72. Jennifer says

    I’m so sorry for your loss.

    How do you entertain the little ones when you take them to, say, K’s tumbling? I would never be able to focus on reading, even if I just had one of my younger kids. I’m trying to carve out more me-time because right now it just ends up with me staying up way too late. Any ideas would be helpful!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Most of the time, they don’t go with me (they stay home with Andrew), but when they do, it’s so loud and crazy in there…they watch, they jump around themselves, they’ll bring coloring books…they mess with each other…they just hang out.

  73. Lindsey says

    I thought in one of your posts you said how you were sleeping later cause you needed more sleep? Is that still happening and 4:40 IS later or you go to bed earlier?

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I am! I was getting up at 4:10 there for a long time. Most of the time, I wake up at 5, but about two days a week or so, I wake up at 4:40. It depends on how much homework I want to do with the kids (this year, we’re doing homework in the morning, so I want to be dressed and ready when it’s time to start that). I woke up at 5:30 today!!

  74. Tina says

    Whenever I’m needing some motivation to get my life on schedule, I always go back and read your day in the life posts!☺️ Question: Do any of your kids ever wake up early and interrupt your early morning time? I’m not a morning person (but want to be!) and it seems like every time I manage to get up super early, one of my kids wakes up super early too.? I’m so envious that you have to actually wake your kids up when they sleep! Lol

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Hardly ever. When they do, as long as they’re not sick or some issue like that, they typically like to curl up in my bed and sleep or watch a show until it’s officially “time to get up”.