We’ve all seen those picture-perfect homes on Pinterest and Instagram—spotless surfaces, perfectly arranged cushions, and not a speck of dust in sight. For the longest time, I aimed for my home to look like no one lived in it. I wanted the flawless, magazine-worthy appearance. But let’s be honest, life happens, and maintaining that illusion can be exhausting and impossible, especially at this stage of my life.

Realization Hits: Life is Messy

One day, amidst the chaos of work, kids running around, and the general hustle and bustle, I had an epiphany: striving for an immaculate home 24/7 was not only unrealistic but also draining. It was robbing me of my joy and peace. Instead of beating myself up over the clutter, I decided to embrace it. After all, a little mess never hurt anyone, right?

Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve picked up along the way to find a balance between a clean home and a lived-in one:

Learning to Let Go

1. Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that a home is for living in, and living gets messy. It’s okay if everything isn’t perfect all the time.

2. Designate Areas for Clutter: Have specific spots where everyday mess can accumulate. A basket for toys, a tray for keys and mail, and a box for shoes can make a world of difference.

3. Daily Quick Clean: Spend 15 minutes at the end of each day tidying up. It’s amazing how much you can accomplish in a short burst.

4. Embrace Imperfection: Those throw pillows don’t need to be perfectly fluffed, and it’s okay if the laundry pile is visible from the living room. It’s a sign that life is happening.

5. Involve the Family: Make cleaning up a team effort. Assign age-appropriate tasks to everyone in the household. It builds responsibility and helps manage the load.

A Shift in Perspective

I’ve learned to see my home as a reflection of my life—busy, imperfect, but full of love and activity. Instead of stressing out over a stray sock or a few dishes in the sink, I now smile at them, knowing they are signs of a vibrant, lived-in space.

Final Thoughts

It’s all about finding balance. A clean home is wonderful, but so is a home that tells the story of its inhabitants. So, if you find yourself stressing over the mess, take a deep breath and remember: it’s okay if your house doesn’t look like a showroom. Embrace the coziness, cherish the memories being made, and give yourself grace. After all, it’s the laughter, love, and little messes that make a house a home.

So here’s to homes that feel warm, welcoming, and wonderfully lived-in.

With love,

Destyne Dye

Hey Mama! Whether you’re a new mom or a seasoned pro, balancing motherhood with everything else life throws at you can feel like juggling fire while riding a unicycle. But fear not, I’m here with my cape (and fizz) to share some wisdom. Here are 10 ways to make your life easier as a mom. Because let’s face it, we deserve a break!

1. Meal Prepping like a Pro

Forget fancy meal prep containers, grab some old school Tupperware and go to town. Spend Sundays making big batches of casseroles and magic one-pot wonders. Trust me, your weeknight self will sing your praises.

2. Embrace the Frozen Food Section

Let go of the guilt. Those frozen meals are lifesavers! No one will judge you (and if they do, they’ll still eat your food).

3. Decluttering Ninjas

Teach the kids the fine art of “speed cleaning.” Turn it into a game! We like freeze dance around here. We turn on music and then I randomly stop it and we have to freeze til I turn it back on. You’ll have your house clean(er) in no time and everyone wins.

4. Carve Out “Me Time”

Whether it’s sneaking in a bath for 15 minutes, a workout, or hiding in the closet with a chocolate bar (no judgment), downtime is crucial. Mama needs her sanity!

5. Snack Stations

Set up a snack station in your pantry or a rolling cart that they can reach. Little containers filled with healthy bites that the kids can grab themselves. It’s like having a personal butler… kind of. Maybe you won’t hear “Mom can I have a snack?” Just kidding you definitely still will.

6. Plan Outfits Ahead

On Sunday, sort out everyone’s outfits for the week. It’s one less morning battle. Plus, it cuts down on those “Mom, I can’t find my socks!” freak-outs.

7. Delegate Like a Boss

Guess what? Kids and partners aren’t just there for decoration. Assign tasks and watch the magic happen. You’ll be surprised how well the little ones can dust and how your partner can master laundry.

8. Get outside

Go outside! I can say this enough. There’s been many of times my boys will be fighting for the 100th time and we will go on a walk, jump on the trampoline, or as simple as blow bubbles. Everyone’s moods are instantly better, even mine.

9. Nighttime Routines

Stick to a consistent bedtime routine. This helps the kids (and you) unwind and does wonders for smoother mornings. Think bath, brush teeth, book, bed. It’s like magic, but real!

10. Embrace Imperfection

Your house won’t always be spotless. Some meals will be frozen or take out. It’s okay. Embrace the chaos and focus on what really matters—those little moments of joy and love.

Motherhood isn’t easy, but you’re rocking it better than you think. And remember, it’s okay if sometimes you feel like the only thing you’ve accomplished is keeping everyone alive. That’s a huge win, superhero!

So, Mama, take a deep breath, laugh at the craziness, and know you’re not alone. We’re all in this wonderfully chaotic journey together. Cheers to making life just a bit easier!

With love and laughter,

Destyne Dye

Hey everyone!

Today, I want to open up about a deeply personal and transformative journey we’ve been on with our almost three-year-old son, who has autism. It’s been an eye-opening experience that’s reshaped the way we see the world, thanks to the power of early intervention.

Stepping Into His World

When we first found out Walker had autism, it felt like we were thrust into a world we knew very little about. Questions flooded our minds: How do we support him best? What does this mean for our family’s future? But through the uncertainty, one thing quickly became clear—our job wasn’t to get him to fit into our world; it was to understand and embrace his.

Early Intervention: A Game Changer

Early intervention has been an absolute game changer for us. These tailored therapies and support systems aim to harness and develop skills during our little one’s most formative years. Here’s how we’ve seen it make a difference:

1. Unveiling New Learning Styles

Observation: We’ve learned that our son absorbs information differently—through patterns, repetition, and hands-on activities.

Example: He loves puzzles and has an incredible knack for them. Watching him solve puzzles that seem complex for his age has made us appreciate his unique intelligence.

2. Celebrating Small Wins

Realization: Celebrating every small achievement, no matter how minor it may seem, builds his confidence and ours.

Example: The first time he made eye contact or responded to his name was monumental for us. Each accomplish signifies progress.

3. Adopting New Communication Methods

Discovery: Our son may not always use words to communicate, but through gestures, expressions, and alternative methods like sign language , he’s teaching us the many ways in which he interacts with the world.

Lesson: This has shifted our focus from just verbal communication to understanding his full spectrum of expressions.

Seeing Life Through His Eyes

One of the most profound changes has been shifting our perspective. Watching our son interact with the world in his unique way has taught us to appreciate the beauty in differences and to find joy in moments we might have otherwise overlooked.

Nature’s Wonders:

A leaf fluttering in the wind, the texture of a fabric, or the patterns light makes on the floor—all these simple things captivate him. Through his eyes, we’ve rediscovered the world’s simple joys.

Routines and Predictability: Our son finds comfort in routines, and rather than trying to change that, we’ve adapted by creating a predictable and safe environment for him.

Fitting Into His World

The traditional approach might suggest teaching him to adapt to our world, but we’ve found more success and harmony in learning to fit into his. This means:

-Flexible Expectations: Letting go of rigid expectations and embracing fluid ones based on his comfort and interest.

– Active Participation: Engaging in activities that interest him, even if they differ from what we initially had in mind. This participation builds trust and deepens our bond.

Final Thoughts

Our journey with autism and early intervention has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Seeing the world through our son’s eyes has been a gift that has enriched our lives beyond measure. We’re grateful for the early intervention strategies that have opened up new ways of learning and connecting.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you’re a parent navigating a similar path, remember, every step forward is progress, no matter how small. Let’s celebrate these moments together.

With love,

Destyne Dye

Hey friends,

So, I want to dive into something real today—something that has captured my heart and is making me rethink a lot about life: Pride vs. Humility. Our church has recently revisited the story of King David and his infamous census. Now, I know what you’re thinking—”history lesson?” But hang with me, it’s so relatable.

David’s Census: A Mirror of My Own Struggles

David was one heck of a king—strong, influential, admired. So, it’s kind of mind-blowing that even he got caught up in pride. Remember how he took a census of Israel? It was more about measuring his success and power (like we sometimes do with our likes and followers, right?). God knew this prideful attitude was dangerous because it led David to rely on his own strength rather than God’s providence.

Trusting God Over Numbers

God’s consistent lesson has been this: True success isn’t found in numbers, strength, or achievements. It’s about realizing that our position and victories come from Him. King David’s pride mirrors our everyday struggles when we start believing we’re the masterminds of our own success. Proverbs 16:5 lays it out bluntly: “The Lord detests all the proud of heart.”

Every Blessing is a Gift

God wants us to remember that every single blessing, achievement, and success is His gift to us. When pride takes over, we mistakenly believe we’re in control (“Look at me! I’m amazing!”), but nothing could be further from the truth. Humility brings us back to recognizing God’s hand in everything.

The Antidote to Pride

So, if pride leads us away from God, humility draws us back. But how do we actually live this out? Here are three ways that are helping me:

1. Acknowledge God’s Sovereignty

-Realization: Everything we have is from God.

-Scripture: James 1:17 says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” This constant reminder humbles me.

2. Cultivate Gratitude

– Action: Thank God for His provisions. A grateful heart is a humble heart.

Keeping a gratitude journal and writing a few things down a day.

-Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 pushes us to “Give thanks in all circumstances.” Practicing gratitude keeps pride at bay.

3. Embrace Weakness

-Realization: Don’t be afraid to admit your flaws and lean on God.

-Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:9 captures it well: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Owning my weakness allows Christ’s power to shine through.

Final Thoughts

Walking humbly with God is essential, not optional. Pride may feel comforting in the short term, but it creates a wedge between us and God. Humility, on the other hand, strengthens our relationship with Him and grounds us in truth.

So, what about you? How do you stay humble and keep pride in check? Let’s talk about it. I’d love to hear your stories and maybe learn a thing or two from you as well!

With love,

Destyne Dye

Life often feels like a relentless series of responsibilities and challenges, doesn’t it? Between work demands, family commitments, and an endless to-do list, it’s easy to get lost in the hustle and forget to find joy in the little things. Yet, it’s often these small moments of happiness that can uplift our spirits and grant us perspective. Allow me to share a personal story that underscores this beautifully.

Several years ago, when I ventured out on my own, my mom gifted me a plant that held immense sentimental value. This seemingly simple plant had pieces taken from another plant at my Poppy’s funeral and from my brother’s funeral. Though I have never excelled at keeping plants alive, my mom assured me that this plant required minimal care—just a bit of water every now and then.

Despite my previous plant care failures, this one thrived under my watchful eye and the help of my husband when he noticed that the leaves were getting droopy. It survived the initial years and even moved with us to our first home—a place we have now been for four years. My mom had once told me that the plant could bloom beautiful white flowers, but I had never actually seen one.

Imagine my surprise when one day, I walked into our kitchen and saw the beginnings of a flower forming. I had placed the plant at the kitchen window, and it seemed that this spot was just perfect for its needs. Over the following days, I eagerly watched as the bud developed. Then, on an otherwise unremarkable evening, I came home after a long day at work, to find a fully bloomed white flower greeting me. It made me so incredibly happy that I let out a squeal of joy.

In that moment, I realized how such a small, beautiful event could bring so much light into our lives. It wasn’t just a flower; it was a symbol of hope and continuity, tied to cherished memories of my loved ones.

Practicing Gratitude for the Little Things

Reflecting on this experience made me appreciate the importance of finding joy in the little things. Here are a few simple practices to help you incorporate this philosophy into your life:

1. Create a Gratitude Journal:
   Every day, take a few minutes to jot down things you’re grateful for. They can be as small as a great cup of coffee or as significant as a personal achievement.
2. Mindful Moments:
   Take occasional breaks to simply breathe and observe your surroundings. Notice the birds singing, the warmth of the sun, or the joy in someone’s laughter.
3. Celebrate Small Wins:
   Don’t wait for huge milestones to celebrate. Appreciate and acknowledge your small achievements enthusiastically.
4. Enjoy Nature:
   Spending just a few minutes outside can significantly improve your mood. Find a local park, a walking trail, or even your backyard.
5. Savor Simple Pleasures:
   Whether it’s a favorite snack, a cozy blanket, or a good book, indulge in the small things that bring you joy.

Finding joy in the little things isn’t about ignoring life’s bigger problems; it’s about enriching our daily lives with moments of happiness. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple flower blooming in your kitchen window to remind you that, amidst all the chaos, joy can always find a way to blossom.

Hey there, lovely people!

I’m so thrilled you’ve stumbled upon my little slice of the internet! I’m Destyne Dye, a proud mama of three energetic boys and a wife to my amazing husband. Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the beautiful chaos that is my life.

Meet My Crazy Crew:

First things first, let me introduce you to my crew. My three boys—ages 7, 6, and my almost-3-year-old whirlwind who also happens to have autism—keep my days filled with adventure, noise, and more Lego pieces than anyone should ever have to step on. Trust me, every day is an epic adventure with them!

My Passion for Cleanliness and Organization:

When I’m not navigating the wild terrain of boy-mom life, I’m running my own cleaning business. Yes, I love to clean and organize (I know, some people think it’s weird, but hey, someone’s gotta do it!). Messes don’t stand a chance against me and my trusty mop.

Health, Wellness, and a Little Bit of Arbonne Love:

Lately, I’ve been diving into the world of health and wellness, trying to find that elusive balance between keeping up with the boys and taking care of myself. Spoiler alert: It’s a work in progress!

Also, I am a huge fan of Arbonne products. Seriously, they’re like little magic potions, and I just can’t get enough. I’ll definitely be sharing my favorites and how they’ve been game-changers for me.

Jesus and Me:

Last but certainly not least, my faith is a cornerstone of my life. Jesus is my guide through all this madness, and I’m grateful for His strength and direction every single day.

What’s In It for You?

On this blog, you’ll get a front-row seat to:

-**Mom Life Adventures:** The daily ups and downs, laughs, and tears of raising three boys, one with autism.

– **Cleaning and Organizing Tips:** How to keep your home (almost) as organized as a Pinterest board.

– **Health and Wellness Journey:** My hits and misses as I juggle family life and self-care.

– **Arbonne Product Love:** Honest reviews and tips on my favorite Arbonne goodies.

– **Faith and Positivity:** Some doses of faith, hope, and maybe even the occasional miracle.

Let’s Navigate This Journey Together

Whether you’re here for some cleaning tips, a little inspiration, or just to see someone else’s organized chaos, welcome! Grab a cup of coffee (or wine, no judgment here!), kick back, and join me on this crazy, beautiful journey called life.

Feel free to drop a comment, share your own stories, or connect with me on social media. I can’t wait to get to know you all better!

Thanks for visiting, and welcome to the organized chaos!

With all the love and a little bit of crazy,

Destyne Dye