The kids aren’t the only ones getting ready for back to school. If you’re craving routine again (and maybe a little peace and quiet), this is the list of things helping me reset—from my favorite digital calendar to a weighted vest and a few fun fashion updates.
Back-to-school season always feels like a mini new year for me. It’s a chance to reset, get organized, and actually start doing some routine things! This list is part routine, part motivation: everything I’m buying, using, or wearing as I get back into the groove this fall. If you’re a mom ready to reclaim your mornings and your closet, here’s your back-to-school list, too.
Exercise Must-Haves
I always feel like my exercise routine can finally get back to normal once my house is on a normal wake-up routine. Here are a few things that I love having in my exercise routine:
- Weighted Vest. Add this to your incline or outdoor walks once the kids are back in school, and thank me later! I helps with bone density, and has really made me aware of my posture!
- Workout Shorts. I bought these a few years ago and they instantly became my favorite. They have a built in brief underneath, they’re a sturdier athletic material with plenty of stretch, and they have a zippered pocket on one side, which is great for holding your phone!
- Comfort Cove Tank Tops. These are fantastic tanks that are perfect with the high waisted shorts, or higher waisted leggings. I bought my first tank three years ago, and I haven’t worn any other tanks since then – they’re THE BEST. Use code MERRICK for 10% off.
Routine and Scheduling Must-Haves
Who’s ready to get back into a regular routine? I’m majorly craving it, and these are what I rely on to stay on track.
- Skylight Calendar. I got the Skylight Calendar a couple of years ago, and it’s been a GAME changer. The fact that the boys can see all the schedules, chores, and to-dos every day has decreased the question load by a lot.
- Gel Pens. Courtney on my team brought these for her favorite things gift we had, and they are SO good. I am picky about my pens, and I can tell you, you’ll love these.
- Car Organizer. Back to school means back to after school activities and LOTS of time in the car. I’ve seen these clear pouches all over Instagram. I’m thinking I can fill them with gum, card games (for waiting siblings) and a few easy snacks to get us through the waiting and driving around.
Self-Care Must-Haves
Once I get all the other routines set up, I’m always due for a little R&R after the chaos of summer. Here is what I’ll use to get it!
- Omnilux Mask. I finally splurged on this omnilux mask after hearing amazing things about it. I love that it’s flexible so it’s comfortable to wear, and it has a connected charger so it doesn’t need to be plugged into the wall while you use. It makes me feel relaxed and like I’m doing something good for myself when I use it!
- Under Eye Patches. Even if you just wear these in the morning while shipping the kids out the door or driving carpool, they’ll make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated. I have them, and they really don’t slide around at all!
- Five Minute Journal. Another team favorite thing, but this is such a good way to get your mind back on track after the summer craziness. Just spend 5 minutes a day to refresh!
- Target Perfume. Another team gift (I’m telling you my girls killed it) and we all couldn’t get enough of this under $30 perfume. Even something as simple as a good-smelling perfume can turn your day around!
Clothes Must-Haves
Back-to-school clothes aren’t just for the kids, I love getting myself some new pieces to get excited about for fall too!
- Eby Bra. Yes, a bra is on this list, but a good foundation is KEY to feeling confident and put together as a mom. This one is wire-free and even my bustier friends say it’s so supportive.
- Fun Sneakers. You probably grabbed new shoes for the kids this year, but what about you?! These are under $25 and are truly SO cute and sporty. I’ve worn them a couple of times, and they’re comfy and cute.
- Good Jeans. Mother jeans are known for being super soft and stretchy and comfortable, and these didn’t disappoint. They’re a splurge, but they’re a jean that won’t go out of style EVER, and the length and wide leg style makes them easy to dress up, but the light wash makes them feel a little more casual, so they’re great for any occasion. I got my true size 26, and I recommend you do too. You can see them on three body types RIGHT HERE.
- Crossbody Bag. I bought this in the winter and it has become one of my most used bags! If your kids are needing new backpacks and you’re needing a new bag, this is a great option that will work year round. It’s the perfect size to fit everything without being too big, it’s great for traveling and sightseeing, and I swap out the straps to make it more or less casual.
