Breaking Free From the Sadness and more...

Have you ever had one of those days where the sadness just kind of sits with you… and you can’t quite shake it?

Not because anything big happened.
Not because something went wrong.
It’s just… there.

I’ve had days like that more times than I can count. The kind where everything feels a little heavier, even the simple things.

I’ve been busier than usual the last few weeks, leaving me with little time for social media…but I am noticing a trend.

Each time that I am able to check in with what everyone has going on, it leaves me exhausted and with an overall feeling of sadness after just a little bit of scrolling through.

There are so many tragic and scary things that are happening everyday, some much more horrific than others.

Social media turns everyone into an expert and the end result is strained and broken relationships.

It can begin to feel like we are living in hopeless times if you don’t do something to change your focus.

My heart is heavy for all those that are personally involved in the tragedies that have taken place the last few weeks.

When the sadness feels heavy, try this:

Sometimes the best thing we can do is take one small step… not fix everything, just shift things a little.

Here are a few simple things that have helped me:

• Step outside for a few minutes – Even if it’s just your porch or backyard. Fresh air can do more than we think.
• Reach out to someone you trust – A quick text. A “hey, can we talk?” You don’t have to carry everything by yourself.
• Look for one small good thing – It might be your coffee, a quiet moment, or even just getting through the day. It doesn’t have to be big to matter.

You don’t have to do all of these. Just pick one.

Sometimes one small step is all it takes to remind your heart that you’re not stuck.

Ways to break free from the sadness

When the world is swirling around you and you feel like there is no hope, try these tips for breaking free from the sadness.

Pray

Because honestly it is the first thing I always do in any situation, especially those that seem hopeless.

You know King David, a man after God’s own heart, spent many verses in the Psalms being pretty real and honest with his depression.

And God always saw him through it, and he wants to do the same for us too!

Reach out

Find someone you trust and share honestly how you are feeling.

Just talking about how you are feeling and bringing the darkness into the light can release a lot of what tries to hold you in your pit.

Fear and shame over what others will think if they knew how you felt or thought can be powerful when left unchecked.

Self Care

Make sure you are taking care of yourself with enough sleep, exercise, healthy food, and proper hygiene.

Getting ready each day from head to toe and spending some time outside can be very beneficial to your overall well being.

Limit Stress

Limit the activities that cause undue stress.

Obviously there are things you cannot limit, but all of the extras need to go when you are trying to come out of the fog.

Learning to say no is a HUGE tool that we all need to practice using more!

Relax

Find activities that you love to do and help you relax.

Maybe try taking a walk, reading a book, take a hot bath, listen to music, or watching a movie.

Mine happens to be writing and gardening!

Gratitude

Remind yourself of all you have to be grateful for.

It’s easy to get caught up in despair when you dwell on what’s wrong instead of what is right.

It might be difficult at first to change your perspective, but I promise you that once you start to look at the things that you have going for you, it will become easier to have a grateful heart for all that you have.

Grab this FREE Gratitude Journal.

Let Go

Make the choice to just let it go.

When you stop trying to control your circumstances you have no other option but to allow hope to grow within you.

Hope is the bridge that connects what is with what will be.

It is not an easy thing to do, but trust that things will turn out the way they should even if it is not the way you think they should.

I hope you will find some of these tips helpful, and I would love to hear your comments and which techniques you use to get through the cloud of sadness.

When you have tried to do all you can on your own, it might be time to reach out for professional help.

Use the diagram below to get a good idea where you are with your emotions. Work to stay on the positive side of things whenever possible.

If today feels a little heavy, you’re not alone in that.

And you don’t have to wait for everything to feel “better” to find a small moment of peace. Sometimes it starts with something simple… a deep breath, a quiet moment, or even just reminding yourself that this feeling won’t last forever.

You’re going to be okay.

And if you need a place to start, just take one small step today. That’s enough.

    

I didn’t grow up thinking “old fashioned skills” were anything special…
they were just life.

But somewhere along the way, we traded a lot of them for convenience, and now we’re paying for it in ways we didn’t expect.

Below you’ll find several Old Fashioned Skills for Sustainable Living your great grandma had that you should have too!

Ever think about what skills used to be a part of everyday life that could make your life easier or helping to provide for your family now?

Odds are if your great grandmother were here to talk to you she would tell you about these 4 essential skills that helped her get through everyday life, save money, and never have to worry about how she would provide for her family.

How These Skills Save You Money

• Cooking = lower grocery bill
• Sewing = extend clothing life
• Gardening = reduce food costs
• DIY = avoid paying for services

Sewing

Things used to be very different and people had to make do with what they had or even make their own stuff.

Your great grandmother came from a generation where sewing your kid’s new clothes was not only normal but encouraged.

Those beautiful vintage sewing patterns and stacks of fabric didn’t just sit in your great grandmother’s crafting room.

They were put to use daily.

Even if you are not interested in pulling out a sewing machine and making a dress for your child you can still benefit from learning how to use a needle and thread to repair things you already own.

Gardening

More and more people are learning the importance of this life skill.

When you can grow your own food you help make your family more sustainable, provide your family with the best quality food possible, and even do your part for the environment.

Start your own vegetable garden in the backyard or just start with some potted plants on a sunny patio depending on where you live to learn this vital skill and start providing great food for your family.

Canning and Preserving

While the grocery store is a great thing knowing how to can and preserve food from your garden or a great deal you find at the local farmers market is a great way to lower your expenses and improve the quality of food you are feeding your family.

Learning how to can and freeze vegetables is a great way to preserve everything at its peak of freshness.

Start simple and fill your freezer with fresh produce from your garden or sales at your local farmers’ market.

Once you are ready, find some canning supplies and dive into making simple things that can be done with water bath canning like tomato sauce and homemade jellies.

This is a great way to get started with home canning and preservation.

Odds are your grandmother took it up a notch and learned how to use a pressure canner.

This allows you to can more fruits, vegetables, and even soups and broths to fill your pantry with healthy food made with love for the long cold winter ahead.

Read More: Food Preservation Guide – How To Decide What To Can, What To Freeze And What To Dehydrate

Bread making

When it comes to dying skills that have made a recent comeback bread making is high on the list.

Your great grandmother didn’t run to the store for a loaf of bread every week.

Last year many families learned that knowing how to make your own bread can be a really handy skill to have and when you are willing to learn making bread from scratch can be an easy task.

Add in a quality stand mixer to do the needing and it may just become your favorite way to eat bread.

Click here: Homemade Bread Recipes

How to Start Learning These Skills (Without Overwhelm)

• Pick ONE skill
• Start with YouTube or a simple project
• Use what you already have
• Don’t aim for perfect

In today’s fast paced world, where technology and modern conveniences dominate our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook the wisdom of old fashioned skills for sustainable living.

However, as we face the challenges of economic changes these traditional skills are more relevant than ever.

Embracing these old fashioned skills can help us live more sustainably.

By incorporating these practices into our modern lives, we can create a more resilient and regenerative way of living that honors our past and supports our present.

So, let’s take a step back, slow down, and rediscover the beauty and practicality of these old fashioned skills.

Let’s learn from the wisdom of our grandma’s and apply it to our modern lives, for a more sustainable, fulfilling, and harmonious way of living on this beautiful planet we call home.

    

Teacher Appreciation Week is a great time to recognize and show gratitude for the tireless work that teachers do day in and day out.

And what better way to show appreciation than with freebies? Yes, you read that right – FREEBIES!

I couldn’t resist the opportunity to share with you some amazing deals and discounts that are being offered in honor of this special week.

But first, let’s talk about why teacher appreciation is so important.

Teachers play an essential role in shaping our future generations.

They inspire, educate, and guide our youth toward a brighter future.

But the job of a teacher isn’t easy – it’s long hours, low pay, and often thankless.

That’s why it’s crucial to take the time to show our appreciation and acknowledge their hard work.

What Teachers Actually Appreciate

• Thoughtful notes from students
• Gift cards (coffee, Amazon, etc.)
• Classroom supplies
• Help / support / kindness

From what I’ve seen (and heard from teachers), it’s not about spending a lot of money…
it’s about feeling seen and appreciated.

When is Teacher Appreciation Week?

Teacher Appreciation Week 2026 will be celebrated from May 4th to May 8th, with Teacher Appreciation Day falling on May 5th.

This week long celebration is a time to honor and appreciate teachers for their hard work and dedication to educating future generations.

It’s an opportunity for students, parents, and communities to show gratitude and support for the tireless efforts that teachers put in every day.

So mark your calendars and get ready to show your appreciation for the educators in your life during Teacher Appreciation Week 2026!

National Teacher Appreciation Week Freebies and Deals

Now, onto the exciting stuff – the freebies!

Many companies and organizations are offering special deals and discounts exclusively for teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week.

From free coffee and donuts to discounted museum admission and online courses, the list goes on and on.

But don’t wait too long to take advantage of these offers because they’re only available for a limited time.

So, whether you’re a teacher yourself or know someone who is, be sure to spread the word and take advantage of these amazing deals.

Let’s show our teachers how much we appreciate them and all that they do.

What to Expect Each Year

Even if exact offers change, teachers can usually count on:

• Free coffee ☕
• Free desserts 🍪
• BOGO meals 🍔
• Retail discounts 🛍️
• Classroom supply deals ✏️

👉 Most offers require a valid school ID.

Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant

On Tuesday, May 2, teachers and school staff can present a valid school ID at Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant and receive 20% off their entire check.

Academy Sports

Teachers and school staff can enjoy 10% off both in stores and online through May 14.

Adobe

Teachers (and students) can get over 60% off on Adobe products, all year long.

Apple

Teachers can get discounts of up to $200 on computers and accessories through the Apple Education Store.

Applebee’s

Teachers receive 10% off with a valid school ID or a free main course on Teacher Appreciation Day at select participating locations.

AT&T

AT&T is showing its support for teachers today and every day with the best price on unlimited plans. Discover all the Teacher Appreciation discounts here. 

Barnes & Noble

The B&N Educators program offered teachers 20% off the publisher’s list price on all purchases for the classroom and 10% off of cafe purchases, but the program is coming to an end April 12, 2023.

But current members of the program will receive a free year of the B&N Premium Membership. 

Budget Truck Rental

Receive 20% off on local moves and 15% off on one-way moves, any day of the week! To redeem this offer, apply discount code TEACH.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Buffalo Wild Wings is thanking teachers and school staff by offering 20% off orders at participating sports bars during national Teacher Appreciation Week. The deal is available for dine-in or takeout with a valid school ID, limited to one offer redemption per order, per visit.

Champion

All members of the education community can receive 10% off at Champion online.

CheapCaribbean.com

Teachers and educators can receive $150 off their next vacation with the Beach4TeachClub. 

Costco

Teachers can join Costco as a new member and receive a $20 Costco Shop Card. Sign up for the exclusive promotion.

Crayola

Crayola.com offers all visitors to the site 20% off on all products from their Teacher Gift Ideas category page with code EDUCATORS. 

Great Wolf Lodge

Teachers and members of the education community can save up to 40% reservations booked between May 8-14 with the code TEACHER. The offer is valid for stays through 9/21/23. Great Wolf Lodge will also donate $10 from every reservation booked as part of Teacher Appreciation Week (up to $100,000) to Donors Choose to help provide classroom supplies to teachers across the country.

Half Price Books

Sign up for the Educator Discount Card for a 10% discount year-round.

J.Crew

All teachers get 15% off in-store and online when they register on their website.

Kendra Scott

The jewelry brand is offering 15% off all items for teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week, In-store only. 

Lenovo

Teachers can save 5% sitewide, including laptops, tablets and desktop computers.

Lovesac

Healthcare Workers, First Responders, Military Personnel, and Teachers can get 5% off all purchases.

McAlister’s Deli

Teachers who stop by McAlister’s Deli May 3-May 10 and show their valid ID will receive a free 32 oz. tea (Limit one per person and excluding in app or online orders).

Michaels

Get 15% off your entire purchase, including sale items, when you use your Michaels Rewards account to check out. Offer is available in-store and online and must show a valid educator ID or complete the educator verification process through the rewards program.

Samsung

Through Samsung’s Education Offers Program, teachers and educators can save up to 30% off on laptops, tablets, smartphones and more when shopping on Samsung.com. 

Schlotzsky’s

If you’re looking to give a gift to a special teacher in your life, from May 5 through May 8, if you spend $25 in Schlotzsky’s gift cards, you’ll receive $10 eRewards.

Staples

Anyone who joins the Classroom Rewards program can earn 5% back to the school or teacher of their choice all year long, and teachers can sign up to redeem those rewards. 

TGI Fridays

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Day on 5/2, teachers can receive a free meal from 5pm until close at participating TGI Fridays restaurants. Simply present a valid school ID to receive your choice between four meals: either a cheeseburger with seasoned fries; crispy chicken fingers with seasoned fries and coleslaw; a 6 oz. center-cut sirloin with mashed potatoes and garlic-butter broccoli or a Caesar salad with grilled chicken.

With the numerous freebies and discounts being offered during this week, it’s easier than ever for teachers to feel appreciation in tangible ways.

Whether it’s a free coffee or a discounted museum admission, every little bit counts.

So let’s make the most of this special week and take the time to thank the teachers in our lives for all that they do.

    

These Lego Crayons are a super easy to make using old broken crayons.

I love to find ways to repurpose old crayons, like these building blocks DIY crayons.

They’re so easy to make and they are fun for kids too!

Not only are these fun for kids, but they are a great way to use up broken crayons or crayons that are almost gone.

You know the crayons that no one will use anymore because they are too small to really be able to color with anymore.

DIY CRAYONS

Making crayons is a fun project to do with your kids too.

All you need are old crayons and the perfect building block silicone mold.

I suggest putting you kiddo in charge of peeling the old paper wrappers off the broken or unused crayons.

MATERIALS NEEDED TO DIY CRAYONS:

• 24 pack of crayons
• Lego Block Silicone Mold
• Sturdy Cookie Sheet

HOW TO MAKE CRAYONS

Step 1: Peel the wrappers off of all of the crayons.

Step 2: Sort the crayons by color.

Step 3: Place broken crayon pieces inside each cavity of your mold.

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 325F.

Step 5: Place the silicone mold on a sturdy cookie sheet.

Step 6: Melt the crayons in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until completely melted.

Step 7: You can use a toothpick to ensure there are no lumps remaining in the crayons.

Step 8: Allow the crayons to cool completely before attempting to remove from the mold.

IF YOU LIKED THIS DIY ACTIVITY, MAKE CERTAIN TO CHECK OUT THESE AS WELL:

• Scented Jello Playdough – This scented Jello Playdough Recipe is the best homemade playdough because it smells delicious!
• Homemade Kinetic Sand – This recipe for DIY Kinetic Sand is easy to make using just a few household ingredients and some colored craft sand.
• Calming Bath Fizzies for Kids – Kids will love these Homemade Kids Bath Bombs with a toy secretly hidden inside.

    

If you’re looking for simple, delicious, and budget friendly Mother’s Day brunch ideas, you’re in the right place.

Whether you’re planning a cozy brunch at home or putting together something a little more special, these recipes are perfect for celebrating Mom without the stress (or the big price tag).

From sweet treats to savory favorites and fun drinks, this list has a little bit of everything to help you create a brunch Mom will truly love.

Sweet Brunch Favorites

If Mom has a sweet tooth, these recipes are the perfect place to start.

Apple Cider Donuts

Soft, cozy, and full of flavor, these Apple Cider Donuts feel like a warm hug on a plate.

French Toast

A classic brunch staple, this French Toast is easy to make and always a crowd favorite.

Crockpot French Toast

Want something hands-off? This Crockpot French Toast lets you prep ahead and enjoy a stress-free morning.

Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins

Moist, fluffy, and packed with chocolate chips, these Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins are always a hit with both kids and adults.

Mini Fruit Pizzas

These Mini Fruit Pizzas are as fun as they are pretty and perfect for adding a pop of color to your brunch table.

Strawberry Blueberry Pound Cake Trifle

Layered, beautiful, and bursting with fresh flavor, this Strawberry Blueberry Pound Cake Trifle feels extra special.

Cherry Cheesecake Danish

Flaky and sweet, this Cherry Cheesecake Danish is perfect alongside a cup of coffee.

Bisquick Scones

Quick and easy, these Bisquick Scones are perfect with a little butter or jam.

Strawberry Belgian Waffles

Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these Strawberry Belgian Waffles are topped with fresh strawberries and so delicious.

Bacon Pancake Dippers

Sweet and savory in one bite, these Bacon Pancake Dippers are especially fun if you have kids at the table.

Copycat Starbucks Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake

This Copycat Starbucks Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake is a bakery-style treat you can make right at home.

Starbucks Petite Vanilla Bean Scones

These Starbucks Petite Vanilla Bean Scones are perfect little bites that pair beautifully with coffee or tea.

Bread Pudding

Warm and comforting, this Bread Pudding is perfect for using up leftover bread.

Old Fashioned Egg Custard

Simple and classic, this Old Fashioned Egg Custard is full of nostalgic flavor.

Instant Pot Chocolate Amaretto Cheesecake

Rich and creamy, this Instant Pot Chocolate Amaretto Cheesecake is perfect if you want to add a little wow to your brunch spread.

Raspberry Cheesecake Swirl Bread

Sweet and soft, this Raspberry Cheesecake Swirl Bread is swirled with delicious flavor in every bite.

Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish

Bright and fresh, this Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish is perfect for spring.

Savory Brunch Ideas

Balance out the sweetness with some hearty, savory options.

Homemade Bagels

There’s just something special about these Homemade Bagels fresh from your own kitchen.

Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole

This Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole is a filling, make-ahead option that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Egg Casserole

Simple and satisfying, this Egg Casserole is easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.

Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits

Fluffy and buttery, these Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits are perfect with eggs, sausage, or jam.

Charcuterie Board

This Charcuterie Board is a fun and easy way to offer a little variety, especially great if you have picky eaters.

Mandarin Orange Spinach Salad

Light and fresh, this Mandarin Orange Spinach Salad is full of flavor with a sweet citrus dressing.

Olive Garden Cheese Fonduta

Creamy and cheesy, this Olive Garden Cheese Fonduta is perfect for dipping bread or veggies.

Lavender Red Roasted Potatoes

A unique and flavorful side, these Lavender Red Roasted Potatoes feel a little extra special.

Drinks to Serve with Brunch

Don’t forget something fun to sip on.

Caramel Brulee Latte

This Caramel Brulee Latte is a cozy, coffeehouse-style drink you can make right at home.

Iced Caramel Macchiato

This Iced Caramel Macchiato is perfect if Mom prefers her coffee iced.

Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher

Light, fruity, and refreshing, this Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher tastes just like your favorite coffee shop version.

Piña Colada

This Piña Colada has no alcohol and is a fun, tropical option that makes brunch feel like a mini getaway.

Easy Extras to Complete Your Brunch

Homemade Pancake Mix

This Homemade Pancake Mix can be prepped ahead of time to make breakfast even easier.

Strawberry Yogurt Fruit Dip

This Strawberry Yogurt Fruit Dip is perfect for dipping fresh fruit and adding something a little extra to the table.

Make It Special (Without Spending a Ton)

You don’t have to go over the top to make Mother’s Day feel special. A simple table setup, a handwritten note, and a homemade brunch can mean more than anything fancy.

Pick a few recipes from this list, mix and match your favorites, and create a relaxed, joyful morning celebrating Mom.

Because at the end of the day, it’s really about the time spent together.

Happy Mother’s Day!