Before I even start, I’ll tell you that I can feel my husband’s eyes rolling. I hate grocery shopping with kids. Hate. There are inevitable meltdowns, stops for (disgusting) public bathroom breaks, and the spending of way more money than necessary. To top all of that loveliness off, you are pretty much guaranteed to spend double the amount of time in the store than you would have otherwise.

That said, a lot of the time there is no other choice. While it would be lovely to sneak out solo and run through the aisles with ease, that rarely happens. So you have to put on your big girl panties and adapt. It might not be the most fun you’ve ever had, but there are ways to make it easier.

I’m not sure if I’ve talked about this on the blog before, but I work from home. I do project-based freelance writing, editing, and proofreading for a bunch of clients. Like any work from home momma will tell you, this is not an easy thing to do. Yes, I can set my own hours. Yes, I can be home with my kids. But I also have no work/life separation and I contend with a cranky toddler while I’m trying to meet deadlines.

It’s not easy, but it works for me.

Over the years I’ve learned a few tips and tricks that make the whole process a little easier and a whole lot more productive. The last two apply strictly to mommas, but I think the first three tips are valuable for anyone working from home.

Since becoming a momma, spring break looks a little different than it used to. Gone are the days of bikinis, beaches, and day drinking. With a tightened budget and a tummy that could use some tightening of its own (not to mention two little people underfoot), I’ve slowly learned to master the art of the staycation.

I’ve put together a list for you of my top 5 tips for surviving a staycation like a mother.

*Note: This post is part of a new series I’m starting called Like a Mother, which focuses on conquering the seemingly impossible like only a mother can. 😉 If you can think of anything you’d like to see featured in this new series, shoot me an email.