By the end of the semester or year, dorm rooms and your student can feel very exhausted. They aren’t as clean and organized as they once were 9 months ago when you moved them in. Two or more people living in such a small space can start to feel cramped and very overwhelming so quickly. Move-out day doesn’t have to be a big chore or feel chaotic, if you start ahead of time and use these tips, I think you’ll find it to be less stressful and you’ll know where everything is. This move-out checklist is for both you AND your student.

2 Months Before Move-Out:

• Check out what the schools move out policies are and have your child confirm and let you know when their last final is. This way you can plan accordingly and have a place to stay if you’re planning to stay overnight when you help them move-out.
• Make a plan for how their items will get home or where they will be stored.
• Start bringing home items that aren’t needed for the rest of the semester. This will help with less things to go through and transport at move-out.
• Decide which roommate will take which shared item (rug, couch, fridge, etc)
• Start packing things that aren’t essential.

2 Weeks Before Move-Out:

• Pack seasonal clothing or any clothes your student wont need for the next couple of weeks.
• Sort their things into 3 categories (and use these great bags for packing, storage, and travel) (1) Keep for Summer, (2) Store for next school year, (3) Donate/Trash
• Make a plan for donations and begin donating items
• Start making a plan for textbooks they’ve used this school year.

1 Week Before Move-Out:

• Purchase any cleaning materials your student needs to have the room spick n span when they leave.
• Return items used that belong on campus (library books, sports equipment, etc)
• Confirm any storage or shipping plans. Start moving unneeded items into storage.
• Start getting rid of any dry food or items in their refrigerators that they won’t need before moving out.

The Day/Night Before Move-Out:

• Finish emptying refrigerator or food pantry/cabinets.
• Defrost freezer if necessary.
• Start cleaning dorm room or apartment (see list below for suggested cleaning supplies)
• Pack the rest of any clothing and items that are left over. Clean out desk drawers, cabinets, and closets.

Move-Out Day:

• Complete move-out appointment with RA.
• Return any room keys or mailbox keys.
• Donate unwanted items.
• Take photos. They may not realize it now, but one day they will want these photos to look back on.

Move-Out Day Supplies:

• Big, heavy-duty trash bags
• Normal size trash bags
• Heavy-duty moving bags
• Rubbermaid bins
• Sharpie and labels for moving bags and bins
• Vacuum storage bags for bedding or bulky clothing
• Dolly or moving cart
• Cleaning wipes/disinfectant spray
• Broom/dustpan
• Vacuum
• Basic toolkit
• Paper towels
• Swiffer or mop

Moving out can be a busy and hectic couple of days. Hopefully this list will help you and your student feel more at ease with the process.

If you’re already preparing for next school year, be sure to check out our college essentials list.

Also, check out @theparentpivot on Instagram.

^{I have included affiliate links in this post. When you purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting this site.}

The post The Ultimate College Move-Out Checklist appeared first on Meghan Tucker.

       

 

 

*Ingredients*

• 8 tortillas or so
• 12 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cup (or more) shredded cheese (I use the mexican cheese blends)
• 1/2 pound sausage, browned and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup salsa verde
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 5 strips bacon cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced avocado (optional)
• 3 stalks green onion, sliced thinly (optional)
• 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved (optional)

*Directions*

1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs with milk. Add salt. Pour the beaten eggs into a grated saucepan and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally until they are scrambled, but still fairly moist. Set aside.
3. If you want to add sausage (I always do, it makes it even better) to the filling, brown it over medium heat in a separate pan as you are scrambling the eggs. Then, remove it from the heat and set aside.
4. Whisk the butter and flour together over medium high heat in a medium sized pan to make the cheese sauce. After whisking the butter and flour into a paste, continue to cook for one to two minutes whisking continuously. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. When the sauce has thickened a little, add the salsa verde, spice, and cheese. Stir together until smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. When the eggs, sausage, and cheese sauce are ready, lay out the tortillas and divide the eggs, sausage, and 1 cup shredded cheese evenly between 8 tortillas. Spread 1/2 cup of the cheese sauce on the bottom of the greased 9X13 pan. Roll the tortillas up and place them seam side down in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top of the tortillas and then sprinkle with more cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges of the tortillas are golden brown and cheese is bubbly in the center.
7. Remove the pan from the oven, and add whatever toppings you’d like.

If you end up trying this recipe, I’d love to hear how you liked it. You can check out more of our favorite recipes, HERE.

I modified this recipe a little from @lovelylittlekitchen.

The post The BEST Breakfast Enchiladas appeared first on Meghan Tucker.

       

 

 

We needed a place to go, just the two of us and we knew we didn’t want to go the route of loud, crowded all-inclusives that Mexico seems to boast of. When we travel, we prefer unique, quaint, quiet, and low key places. I came across Viceroy Riviera Maya and was immediately hooked.

The Viceroy resort is hidden away in the small village of Playa Xcalacoco, which is just outside Playa Del Carmen. Viceroy consists of 41 villas, it’s adult only, and is set in a serene Mayan tropical rainforest. It looked to be the perfect, quiet, and quaint place that we were looking for.

We arrived in a large, open-air lobby and were greeted by the friendliest staff. They were so genuine and you could tell really enjoyed working there. This was just the place we were looking for, we could already tell that our experience was going to be great. After we checked in, our butler showed us to our villa through the most exquisite jungle path.

The villas at the Viceroy have thatched roofs and are very private, tucked away in the jungle. Each villa has it’s own private pool, an outdoor rainshower and living space complete with a hammock and chaise longer. The inside of the villas are just as wonderful and luxurious. As we arrived and were getting settled, our butler gave us a choice of handmade soaps to choose from and then cut a pretty big chunk of the scent that we chose to use in our luxurious bathroom.

The main swimming pool was low-key and so lovely. So many times, when you visit resorts in Mexico or in the Caribbean, you have to arrive super early to the pool to grab a good seat. Because the Viceroy is so small (and were were there at an off-season time, so there were maybe 10 other couples there during the week we were visiting which was so nice), there are plenty of chair options by the pool and on the beach.

The Viceroy has an excellent spa that we spent some time at. We have visited quite a few spas all over the world and this one was one of our favorites. There were so many treatments to choose from and even if you don’t include a spa treatment during your stay, you still have access to the hot tubs within the spa area, which is such a nice touch!

The food was fantastic, but our favorite meal each day was breakfast. There are two restaurants, both open air, and the ocean breeze on the beach felt so good each morning. There are TONS of options to choose from for all 3 meals, but our all time favorite thing was the churros. Goodness, we’ve never had such amazing churros. We may have had them for lunch and dinner everyday we were there, and then even a couple of times for an afternoon snack. There are different options regarding food and packages when you go to book your trip to Viceroy. If you have specific questions about the all-inclusive or half board options, feel free to ask in the comments of this post and we will be happy to help you.

3 Things We Loved at Viceroy Riviera Maya:

• The staff and how friendly and seamless they were. Every staff member knows you by name (for real) and it’s such a great touch. Before you need something, they have already thought of it and are on it already.
• The fact that it is adults only: the hotel has an intimate atmosphere and is so private. It’s a romantic hideaway, quiet, and is especially well-suited for couples and newlyweds. Kids can stay there if they’re over 12 years old, but honestly – we probably wouldn’t suggest this place for 12 year olds. There isn’t a ton for them to do.
• How chill this resort it. It’s super quiet, laid back, and perfect if you’re wanting to just sit and relax.

We have visited some pretty luxurious places, and Viceroy Riviera Maya is one of our top favorites, now. You can see more of our trip by clicking on the “Mexico” highlight over on Instagram.

The post Viceroy Riviera Maya Review appeared first on Meghan Tucker.

       

 

 

I have been putting off writing this letter to you because that means it’s time — time for you to leave for college. It’s the time you probably have been looking forward to all year, and it’s the time I have dreaded for months, probably, even since the day you were born. These years have gone by way too fast.

I remember when I was little, people would ask me what I wanted to be when I grew up. My answer? “A mom”. You gave me the first shot at this thing called motherhood and you have taught me so much about it. 

You’re still teaching me some “firsts” about motherhood – I’m learning that motherhood isn’t finite. Maybe you don’t crawl into my lap anymore or ask me to open Capri Sun’s for you, but you ask me to go to dinner with you and to watch the Office and I’m grateful. You’re teaching me motherhood isn’t just for the ages of babies and toddlers, it’s forever. 

I’ve also learned as a parent that life is one long series of letting go: watching you learn to crawl, then walk and talk, then run, then drive away, and now – leave for college. When I look at you, I see a big heart and a faith that can and will do big things.  

It seems like yesterday you were signing all the worship songs in the back seat of our van and I was wiping the lunch off your face. All those times you’d look up at me and smile and I’d think, “It doesn’t get any better than this.” While those days are so, so sweet and hold a special place, I’m finding out that it does get better. You have grown up and become a great man and an amazing friend, and your smile still lights up my world. 

Nothing will ever be the same as it has been for our crew (and a little bit of that is hard to digest if I’m being honest. Maybe not a little, but a lot). It gives me a huge lump in my throat to write that out and to think about it. We will miss you at the dinner table, and I will wait for you to come through the front door after being with friends – only you won’t now. But, we were never meant to raise you to keep you. I know this is how it’s supposed to be. I love you and I’m trying to let go. You are one of my favorite people and as excited as I am for your next step, I’m going to miss you tremendously.

Please remember:

1. We love you so much and no matter what.
2. Don’t ever feel ashamed if you need to come home. Ever. 
3. I will probably cry every time we drop you off at school and again when you come home for breaks and leave again, so just get ready.
4. Love Jesus, always and show God’s love.
5. We will always encourage you and cheer you on. We will be there at every turn possible to embrace your successes, support your learning when you make mistakes, and provide a soft place to land when and if you need it. 
6. My heart will always skip a beat when I see your number come up on my phone and I will feel like a little kid on Christmas morning waiting for you to arrive home for a visit.
7. When and if you say “Are you coming, Mom?” – know that as often as possible, for as long as possible, my answer will be “Yes, I’m coming. I’ll be there soon.”
8. Choose your partner wisely and date someone at least through all the seasons before seriously settling down (what great advice that your grandmother gave me). If you find that “love” is causing you to compromise your values, then examine it closely. Loving someone means your values align together and you can see yourself working hard for the rest of your life to stay with that person. Find someone worthy of your love and then put in the work that defines a loving relationship. If someone is worth that effort over and over again, then you’re on the right track. 

We are here for you, always. You’ve got this, Son. I love you more than you’ll ever know…

—Mom

• You can see more of the journey of launching our oldest and what it’s been like for everyone in the family, HERE
• You can check out all the College Essentials if you’re shopping for your child who is leaving for college, HERE
• I’ve created an Instagram account called The Parent Pivot just for those of us who are in the season of pivoting into this new season of life with our kids – I hope you’ll join me over there.

^{I have included affiliate links in this post. When you purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting this site.}

The post To Our Oldest Son as You Leave for College, appeared first on Meghan Tucker.

       

 

 

This will be our 15th year of homeschooling! Say what?!? I cannot believe it! Our oldest left for college one year ago (again, cannot believe it) and our second oldest is now a junior. To say we have tried a lot of different homeschool curriculum over the years is an understatement. We have even switched up curriculum in the middle of the school year because something wasn’t working for us. When we first began homeschooling, I was all for the boxed kits where everything comes shipped to you in a box and you don’t have to do anything else to prep except open the book on the first day of school. Those are wonderful, and so helpful those first few years of homeschooling.

But, over the years we have learned what has worked and doesn’t work for our family. Each child is different and enjoys different things and learns differently, so after those first few years, we branched out and tried other options and pieced together our own curriculum. We ended up loving Masterbooks and have used it for almost every grade level now. Yes, we’ve added in other curriculum and resources, but we cannot say enough good things about Masterbooks. There’s very little planning involved (and all the homeschool moms said, “Amen”.) Each subject has it’s own lesson plan laid out for you and your student in the front part of the book. The only thing you really need to do when it comes to planning is to take a look at what supplies you need ahead of time and gather them. Masterbooks is also a good curriculum for families who would like their children to do some independent work to prepare them for later on in their schooling to get to all independent work (and let me tell you how wonderful it is when your kids get older and can do the independent work).

So what are we using this year? Here’s a line-up of our curriculum for our 11th, 8th, and 3rd grader (it still seems weird to not have four grade levels listed here, since our oldest is off at college):

11th Grade:

• English/Writing: Writing Strands – Masterbooks
• Computer Science – Khan Academy
• Integrated Math – Khan Academy
• Personal Finance – Khan Academy
• US Government – Khan Academy
• Wellness/Health – Outschool
• Music/Guitar Lessons
• Keyboarding – Keybr.com

8th Grade:

• Intro to Astronomy – Masterbooks
• Grammar/Composition – IEW Level B, Year 3
• Keyboarding – Keybr.com
• 8th Grade Math/Pre-Algebra – Khan Academy
• World History – World Story 2 – Masterbooks
• Intro to Logic – Masterbooks

3rd Grade:

• Bible – More Than Words (Level 1) – Masterbooks
• Art – Creating a Masterpiece
• Math – Masterbooks Math Lessons for a Living Education & Komodo.com
• Science – God’s Design for Life (for beginners) – Masterbooks
• Handwriting – A to Zoo – Masterbooks and A Reason for Handwriting
• Language Arts – Language Lessons for a Living Education – Masterbooks
• History – My Story – Masterbooks

There you have it – that is our curriculum for this year. I love talking all things homeschool and curriculum and am here to help you, so please don’t hesitate to reach out on social media or by commenting on this post.

Also, make sure to check out some of our favorite homeschool supplies + books and follow me on the LiketoKnowIt app for more of our favorites. You can see more daily homeschool posts and more info on how we homeschool in the “Homeschool” highlight on Instagram.

What homeschool curriculum are you using this year?

The post Our 2025/2026 Homeschool Curriculum Choice appeared first on Meghan Tucker.

       

 

 

Nestled along the pristine coastline of Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A, our recent vacation was transformed from a simple getaway to an extraordinary experience, thanks to Oversee. This isn’t just another vacation rental company – it’s a gateway to the most enchanting beach destinations on the Emerald Coast that go above and beyond all the other rental companies.

From the moment we first browsed their website, we knew this was going to be different. The crystal-clear waters of the Gulf, the sugar-white sand beaches, and the charming beach communities of 30A beckoned, but it was Oversee that made our dream vacation a seamless reality.

Why We Will ALWAYS Choose Oversee:

1. Simplicity That Speaks Volumes

Booking with Oversee is as smooth as the coastal breeze. Their user-friendly platform and website eliminates the typical stress of vacation planning. There are so many vacation rental company websites that are so clunky and hard to navigate. Not Oversee! With just a few clicks, we found our perfect beach home – no complicated processes, no hidden fees, just straightforward, transparent booking that allowed us to focus on what really matters: anticipating our upcoming vacay. That’s how it should be, wouldn’t you agree?

2. Service That Goes Above and Beyond

What truly sets Oversee apart is their exceptional service. From our initial inquiry to the moment we checked out, we felt genuinely cared for. Their local experts provided insider recommendations for the best restaurants, hidden beach spots, and must-visit local attractions along 30A. When a minor maintenance issue arose during our stay, their response was immediate and professional – and they were on site within a matter of minutes. Literally. Turning what could have been a potential inconvenience into a testament to their commitment to guest satisfaction.

3. Pricing That Delivers Exceptional Value

In a market where vacation rentals can often feel overpriced, Oversee offers a refreshing approach. Their pricing isn’t just competitive; it’s smart. We discovered high-quality properties at rates that made us feel like we were getting an insider’s deal. For real. The value extended beyond just the accommodation – it included the peace of mind, the local expertise, and the promise of an unforgettable experience. Plus, the home we rented during our last trip to 30A may be our new favorite. You can see all the details of our trip to Emerald Overlook by clicking HERE.

A Home Away From Home

Our rental wasn’t just a place to sleep – it was a home that reflected the beauty of 30A. Thoughtfully decorated, meticulously maintained, and perfectly positioned to capture the essence of coastal living, our Oversee property became our personal paradise that we cannot wait to return to.

The 30A Experience

Beyond the rental itself, Oversee understands that they’re not just renting a property – they’re curating an experience. The unique communities of 30A – from the iconic architecture of Seaside to the laid-back charm of Grayton Beach and Dune Allen Beach – came alive through their local insights and carefully selected properties.

As we packed our bags (with a hint of sadness that our vacation was ending), we knew one thing for certain: Oversee had not just provided us a place to stay, but had given us memories that would last a lifetime.

Pro Tip: When planning your 30A adventure, don’t just book a rental – choose an experience. Choose Oversee.

What questions do you have about renting from Oversee or 30A?

The post An Unforgettable Stay on 30A with Oversee appeared first on Meghan Tucker.

        

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• Hi Meghan, thank you for taking the time to check this ... by Maple

 

 

If you’re like me, you’re always up for an adorable, festive, cozy sweater. Here are a few of my favorite sweaters.

Heart Sweater | Pink Love Heart Sweater | Heart Cardigan | Pink Heart Turtleneck

And who doesn’t love a good set of pajamas? These are the coziest!

Long Sleeve Button Down Pajamas | Pink & White Stripe Silk Pajamas

3 Piece Satin Short Set Pajamas | Waffle Pajamas Set

Accessories? I’ve got you covered. How cute are these?!?

XOXO Earrings | Pink XOXO Earrings | Gold Heart Studs | Gold Heart Necklace | Pink Spa Headbands

Gold Initial & Heart Bracelet | Heart Crew Socks | Pink Knotted Headbands | Pink Clutch

Let’s not forget your home decor! How about these cute pieces that are a must have?

Red Kitchen Towels | Table Runner | Pink & Red Appetizer Plates | Heart Dinner Plate

Hearth & Hand Mug | Valentines Day Ceramic House | Disco Ball Garland | Felt Heart Garland

Red Heart Pillow | Pink Tumblers | Heart Spoons

** If you’re looking for a few ideas for Valentine treats for your kids to take to school, check these out and these.

** If you’re looking for a yummy Valentine recipe, I think you’ll LOVE these.

** If you are looking for a few adorable Valentine children’s books, I’ve got just the list for you.

What are some of your favorite Valentine’s Day finds?

The post My Favorite Valentine’s Day Finds appeared first on Meghan Tucker.

       

 

 

*Ingredients*

1 pound pasta (I use penne)

1 pound ground beef

1 tbsp. Italian seasoning

16 oz. cottage cheese

8 ounces of cream cheese, softened

1 jar (24-30 oz) pasta sauce

2 cups shredded mozzarella

*Directions*

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and boil the pasta according to the instructions.
2. Brown the ground beef into small pieces as it cooks. Then, stir in the Italian seasoning before the meat is finished cooking.
3. Drain the ground beef if you’d like and set aside.
4. Drain the pasta and return to the pot. While the pasta is still warm, add the cream cheese and cottage cheese and gently stir until combined well.
5. Layer a 9X13 pan (spray with PAM first) or two 8X8 pans with a little pasta sauce on the bottom of the pan, then half of the pasta mixture, meat, and then pasta sauce.
6. Then, repeat. Add the shredded cheese on top.
7. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until it bubbles in the middle of the pan.

The post Poor Man’s Lasagna Recipe appeared first on Meghan Tucker.

       

 

 

Advent Books for Adults:

The Greatest Gift

The Marvel & Miracle of Advent Bible Study + Streaming Video

Joy to the World – Advent Study & Video Access – Lifeway Women

Joy to the World

The Dawn of Redeeming Grace

Emmanuel – An Invitation to Prepare Him Room at Christmas & Always

Bring on the Merry

Unwrapping the Names of Jesus

Hidden Christmas

Come Let Us Adore Him

Waiting Here for You

Kids Advent Books:

The Wonder of the Greatest Gift – An Interactive Family Celebration of Christmas

Unwrapping the Greatest Gift – A Family Celebration of Christmas

The Way to the Manger

The Jesus Storybook Bible A Christmas Collection

The Jesus Storybook Bible Advent Activity Book

Other Advent Resources:

A Weary World Rejoices Family Advent Study from @thehomemakingmomma

Tiny Theologians Christmas Collection

To shop more of our favorite Christmas books, you can CLICK HERE.

I hope these ideas help bring you and your family closer to the real meaning of Christmas this holiday season.

Merry Christmas, friends!

The post Advent Books & Resources For the Entire Family appeared first on Meghan Tucker.

       

 

 

It’s Fall

Slow Down

Because of an Acorn

Strega Nona’s Harvest

Cranberry Thanksgiving

Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn

Little Tree

Johnny Appleseed

If You Find a Leaf

The Apple Cake

Bear Has a Story to Tell

Pumpkin Soup

Sophie’s Squash

The Golden Glow

Thanksgiving in the Woods

Fletcher & the Falling Leaves

Too Many Pumpkins

The Roll Away Pumpkin

Ghost Afraid of the Dark

Halloween is Coming

How Big Could Your Pumpkin Grow

Spookley the Square Pumpkin

Knight Owl

Painting Wonder

The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt

Mushroom Rain

How to Make an Apple Pie

Fall Walk

Rain Makes Applesauce

Apple Cake

Hungry Hunny

The Apple Pie That Papa Baked

Bear Has a Story to Tell

The Little Scarecrow Boy

Hello, Harvest Moon

The Scarecrow

These are just a few (yes, you heard that right – we have many more favorites) that we’d recommend. You can see all of our favorite Fall Books in our Amazon shop. Also, you can see some fun, fall crafts that we’ve saved as our favorites over on Pinterest, as well as my favorite fall home decor items HERE.

The post Fall Books for Kids appeared first on Meghan Tucker.