Well, summer’s grand finale came in hot. One minute we were soaking up the sun, the next we were in back to school battle mode. Uniforms, supplies, and the sudden reminder that 6 AM wake ups are a very real thing. We’ve been “practicing” our new schedule these last few weeks (which basically means we’re all slightly crankier but technically more prepared).

The girls have noticed, Andre and I have noticed, and caffeine has noticed it’s being called to active duty.

In true me fashion, I decided that the end of summer is also the perfect time for a full “life refresh.” We’re talking fridge purge, pantry overhaul, closet cleanouts, a little rearrange, even my husband and I got the wardrobe edit treatment. Apparently “summer cleaning” is a thing now, and I am its proud founder.

Emotionally, I’m riding the preschool wave. Ayana is heading to full-day preschool, which means most of her day will be spent with people who are not us. I have the typical mom fears (you know, the ones where you imagine every possible scenario), but I’m also brimming with pride. We’ve been role-playing “what would you do if…” situations, and every answer just confirms she’s becoming her own strong, kind, and hilarious little person. Ayana is that girl.

Meanwhile, Arlo is revving up for toddlerhood. Think bull in a china shop. The ham to Ayana’s cool cucumber. I’m looking forward to more one on one time with her, and to getting to teach her all of the things in a 1 on 1 setting.

On the grown-up front, Andre and I have entered the “mid-30s maintenance mode” chapter of life. Supplements? Game changer. Miss a day? You feel it. Our favorites are ashwagandha and magnesium glycinate. It truly has changed the way we feel during the day and how we manage our stress. We can be stressed out Sally’s a little more than I would like to admit. We’ve also been going hard in the kitchen. Andre’s perfected his vodka sauce dish. We’ve been recreating some of his dad’s classic Cuban dishes but with a healthy twist. Our mission: keep the cultural flavor without the “my arteries are judging me” aftermath. WE ARE TRYING. So please share any tips and some solid swaps.

Life feels full, a little chaotic, but exactly the kind of busy I’ll always be grateful for.