15-Minute De-Frazzlers for Families by Susie Michelle Cortright, http://www.momscape.com

Here are a week's worth of quick family de-frazzlers. They were
created, not with the expectation that you will do each
activity on its designated day, but, rather, to remind you
that, every day, you have 15 very special minutes to fill.
Fifteen minutes expressly to nurture your children, your spouse, and yourself in a special way.


Day One
This evening, just before the sun goes down, gather your
family to watch the sunset. The only rule: no one speaks
until the sun has completely nestled into the horizon.
Use the quiet time to meditate and reflect on the importance
of slowing down.

Day Two
Make a loved one's day: Write a note, have the kids draw
pictures, copy some home videos, or tape record the kids
singing and laughing. Pack it up and mail it to your oldest
relative.

Day Three
No cooking tonight! Order a pizza and enjoy it on the living
room floor, picnic style) with your kids.

Day Four
Encourage your children to read their favorite comics to
you this morning.

Day Five
Write three pages in your journal regarding any challenge your
family is currently facing. Write as quickly as you can without
picking up your pen or crossing anything out. This is a powerful
tool for problem-solving and for developing a sense of trust
in yourself, as you tap the wisdom of your own mind.

Day Six
As you go about your day with your family, be on the lookout
for ten positive, beautiful things about each of them, your
home, or your home life that you haven't noticed before.
Challenge yourself to maintain this heightened awareness.

Day Seven
Brainstorm at least five of your own family de-frazzlers:
brief activities that will nurture your spirit while helping
you reconnect with your family.


A meaningful and fulfilled life can be surprising simple.
Start with a few moments each day specially devoted to
renewing your spirit--and your emphasis on the gifts in
your life.

About the author:
Susie Cortright is the editor of two "just for you" websites:
BestSelfHelp.com, which saves you time and money by cataloging
only the best personal growth tools, and Momscape.com, devoted
to helping busy parents find balance. Today, Momscape visitors
receive Susie's "6 Days to Less Stress" course free:
http://www.momscape.com. And BestSelfHelp visitors receive a free
self-help classic: http://www.bestselfhelp.com