Living the simple life

From the Parents Council blog this week:

A dear friend whom I haven’t seen in a while passed along this bit of wisdom: “25 Ways to Simplify Your Life with Kids,” from a Web site on Zen habits.

Here are some of the suggestions from the author, a man with a house full of kids yet has discovered a way to streamline his life and “find peace and happiness among the chaos:”

“Don’t schedule too much.

“Have dedicated family times.

“Spend quiet time at home.

“Create traditions.

“Make cooking and cleaning a family thing.

“Focus on doing, not on spending.

What are some of the ways that you’ve simplified your life with kids?

– Posted by Virginia de Leon

For me, really listening to my child, no matter how long or detailed the story, is a great gift. Better than all the classes and sports and activities I could sign them up for. Your kids know when you’re “really there” for them. That’s simplicity at it’s best.

– Posted by Cindy H.

The most important things that Hubby and I did was listen to them, never criticized them, answered their questions and always told them that we would be there for them no matter what.

If one of the kids had a concert or game, we took the entire family. Vacations were memory builders too! We have always tried our best to show by example, and today we enjoy the company of our kids and grandkids! – Posted by Kathy H.

Join the conversation at spokesmanreview .com/blogs/parents.

Coloring contest

If you missed the Our Kids: Our Business coloring contest entry on Sunday, don’t worry. Just go to spokesmanreview .com/coloringcontest to download a copy of the form. Entries must be received by April 15.