Simplify.

Our lives can be challenging. It seems that many things we used to enjoy have been taken away. Tasks that used to be easy take much more time and strength. Keeping up with daily life can take up much of our strength.

• One thing I am learning is to simplify. While balancing cost, nutritional content/food allergies and strength needed for preparation, I have found it helpful to purchase pre-cut veggies or meat, pre-boiled eggs, etc. If foods must be cut, find the easiest way to cut them. For instance, boiled or even partially boiled potatoes or carrots are easier to cut and then use in a recipe. Also, find some basic and versatile kitchen utensils that make tasks easier.
• Due to food allergies, most food has to be homemade. Finding simple recipes using mainly whole foods has helped. I have found that batch cooking meat to be seasoned when heated up according to various recipes has been very helpful. Simple high-nutrient meals are helpful to keep it simple as well as making extra to freeze for particularly weak times.
• For cleaning and laundry tasks, keeping it simple may mean doing things consistently instead of tasks pile up as well as finding routines that keep things tidy. During weak times, do what you can.
• For family gatherings, prepare all you can ahead of time and keep it simple. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. As an example, this past weekend I had the privilege of hosting a few family members for lunch. Preparation started early. The menu was simple with many pre-cut items involved, but hopefully delicious. Fellowship was the focus, not the food.
• Simplify gifts for holidays and birthdays and start as early as possible. (This is coming from someone that loves to make all gifts. I have had to learn what is possible.)

What are things you have found that help you simplify life in the midst of chronic illness or caregiving?