Keeping the Family Happy

There are many things that contribute to the happiness of a family. I think that the mother has a large role in setting the tone for the home though, which in turn affects everyone's mood. You've all heard the saying, "If momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!" I think it rings true.

Being optimistic keeps everyone happy. I try to make sure that I have a good attitude and pay attention to how I respond to everything. By making a conscious decision to react in a positive way and be optimistic, it wears off on others and can make your day a whole lot smoother than it would be otherwise. 

Being able to laugh keeps our family very happy. Matt & I have always been the type that notice ridiculous everyday things and laugh about them. One time we were in an argument, and a song from Handel's Messiah came on iTunes. It was some opera guy making this guttural noise over and over again and we just looked at each other and died laughing! We couldn't even remember why we were upset with each other in the first place after we wiped away our tears from laughing so hard! Already our baby Ada is exhibiting the ability to laugh at herself, and it is so funny! She cracks herself up and I hope she continues to be able to be good-natured and laugh at the little everyday things.

Being flexible keeps our family happy too. I am a planner by nature, but know that having some flexibility is best. Especially when it comes to children! If the sun is out and the babe is happy, we will seize the moment and head out for a walk to the beach. Being spontaneous and taking advantage of those moments makes memories that will be cherished for years to come!

Being prepared is key to keeping peace in a family. I try to plan out what meals I am making for the week and grocery shop accordingly. There are always nights set aside for Costco pizza or leftovers, because there are definitely times when I'm not in the mood for cooking. For the most part though, we eat healthy, delicious meals at home. (Check out my food blog by clicking here or on the Kara in the Kitchen widget to the right). I find that doubling recipes or just freezing the leftovers is a great way to have home-cooked meals on busy evenings. There's nothing like doing the work once, then reaping the benefits multiple times! I like that my husband knows he will come home to a yummy meal after working hard at school and work, or at least the ingredients to make one! :)

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Farm Rich blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here.