We came up with one for every day this month. But, above all, stay focused on the big picture, and remember that the time you actually get to spend playing, talking, reading and laughing with your kids or your partner – or nurturing yourself – trumps any errand, email message or cleanup chore on any list.
1. Embrace Skype – the free video-calling service. It's a quick and easy way to stay in touch with kids at university or with a spouse away on a business trip.
2. Stock emergency items in a bin in the car – a few school supplies, extra tuques and mitts, snacks and juice boxes. If you're already on the road, you won't need to turn around to retrieve them when you hear "OMG, Mom, go back, I forgot my...!"
3. If you commute on rapid-rail transit, you may be able to save time and frustration for a small fee. For instance, Ontario's Go Transit offers a reserved parking spot for a monthly fee – so you don't have to drive around in the morning looking for a spot. A similar service is available in the Vancouver area at many Translink stations. End-of-day bonus: You'll be first to your car and out of the lot quicker.
4. Use websites like MapQuest (mapquest.ca) or Google Maps to plan your route to an appointment or unfamiliar destination. If it's the kids you are shuttling around, have them be responsible for getting the directions and downloading a map.
Page 1 of 4 – Find our most popular slow cooker recipes, plus time-saving advice for making grocery lists and more on page 2.
