Enjoying Summer without Kids: A Middle-Aged Adventure
Wondering how we spent our two weeks of kid-free time this summer? Did we jet off on a lavish vacation or party every night? Well, the reality might surprise you. Instead of living it up, I did something that would have shocked the younger, more carefree version of myself. I got orthotics. And you know what? I actually love them. I took care of appointments, read books before they were due at the library (and sometimes returned them on time), stayed hydrated, and hit the hay early. It was a far cry from wild nights out, but it was exactly what I needed.
Of course, we did have some fun. We had uninterrupted conversations, sipped Hugo spritzes, and marveled at dogs frolicking in a makeshift pool by a fire hydrant. We reminisced about the kids while peeking at their camp photos. We even admitted to missing our kids but not necessarily the constant parenting responsibilities. It was an eye-opening experience.
But the real highlight of our kid-free summer was a simple grilled chicken salad with cilantro lime dressing. This salad stole the show and became a staple in our household. It’s a refreshing mix of flavors and colors, with chili-rubbed grilled chicken, charred sweet corn, ripe avocado, and the most delicious cilantro lime dressing you’ll ever taste. It’s a symphony of greens and yellows that will make your taste buds sing.
This salad is perfect for summer evenings, whether you’re dining al fresco or whipping up a quick meal in a vacation rental kitchen. It’s a simplified version of a Southwestern Cobb salad that I’ve been perfecting for years. By focusing on the essential ingredients, I’ve created a dish that’s both delicious and easy to make.
So, if you’re looking for a taste of summer in a bowl, give this grilled chicken salad a try. Pair it with a cold drink, some crunchy Fritos on the side, and a laid-back attitude. Who knows, it might just become your new favorite summer dish.
Supporting Teachers with the SK Classroom Wishlist Project
As summer winds down, it’s the perfect time to give back to the community. The 2025 SK Classroom Wishlist Project is now live, aiming to provide teachers with the resources they need to create successful learning environments. Whether you choose to support a school in your area or one that holds special meaning to you, every contribution makes a difference. From crayons to books, your help can make a teacher’s day and empower students to succeed.
If you’re unsure where to start, check out the project information and direct link to the spreadsheet. No donation is too small, and every act of kindness counts. Let’s come together to support educators and inspire the next generation.
The Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace
In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, mental health has become a key concern for individuals and organizations alike. The workplace is a major source of stress and anxiety for many people, and the impact of poor mental health on productivity and overall well-being cannot be overstated.
Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and burnout can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to perform at their best in the workplace. Studies have shown that employees who are struggling with mental health problems are more likely to take sick days, have lower levels of job satisfaction, and are less engaged in their work.
In addition to the personal toll that mental health issues can take on individuals, there are also significant costs associated with poor mental health in the workplace. According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion per year in lost productivity.
Recognizing the importance of mental health in the workplace, many organizations are implementing programs and initiatives to support their employees’ well-being. This can include offering mental health resources and support services, promoting a healthy work-life balance, and creating a positive and supportive work environment.
Employers have a responsibility to prioritize the mental health of their employees, as it not only benefits the individual but also the organization as a whole. By fostering a workplace culture that values mental health and well-being, organizations can improve employee morale, productivity, and retention.
In conclusion, mental health in the workplace is a critical issue that cannot be ignored. By prioritizing the mental health of employees and creating a supportive work environment, organizations can improve overall well-being and productivity. It is time for employers to recognize the importance of mental health and take proactive steps to support their employees’ mental well-being.