1. Refillable Water Bottle
I drink water all day long because I feel more energetic when I’m well-hydrated. As a busy mom, I need all the energy I can get! To keep things exciting I slice up lemons, oranges, cucumber, strawberry, or apples to add to my water (I switch it up every week). Bonus: By using a refillable bottle rather than buying plastic ones, I’m helping the environment.
2. Headphones
I’m always listening to music, whether I’m at the office or the gym, so headphones are a must. They also come in handy when my youngest son, 4-year-old Ford, and I are at sports practice for the older boys. I let him watch videos on my phone so he stays busy while I concentrate on what’s happening on the field!
3. Gum
I keep various flavors of sugar-free gum in my bag so I can pop some in and start blowing bubbles when I’m feeling sluggish. For whatever reason, this gives me a boost of energy. It’s also a little sweet treat that keeps me from turning to cookies or candy when the afternoon slump hits. My kids love gum, too, so it’s a great way to give them something sweet that won’t cause a sugar rush!
4. Almonds
I always make sure I have high-protein snacks in my bag to keep my blood sugar from crashing. Almonds are my go-to. Cause with three young boys I always have to be on.
5. Laptop
Everything I do for work revolves around my laptop, so it’s always with me wherever I go. Because I carry a backpack, there’s plenty of room for my computer—and everything else I need.
6. Sunglasses
My fave accessory on the planet. Not only do sunglasses protect your eyes but they also look cute with every outfit. No time for mascara before school drop-off? I just pop on my sunnies and I instantly look put together.
7. Notebook
I’ve used digital planners and fancy date books, but my tried-and- true method for staying organized is a large spiral bound notebook. I use it for my grocery list, at-home and work to-do lists, the boys’ schedules — it’s all in there. Every morning I open up my planner to the next page, date it, and start my list. Sometimes the simplest solution for getting it together is the best!
Photo: The Chic Site by Rachel Hollis
