• Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube

Kalyn Brooke

Simple Solutions to Manage Everyday Life

  • Home
  • About
  • Blog
  • Resources
  • Shop
  • Contact

About

Jump To Recipe · Print Recipe
  • Facebook5
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest96
  • Email
IMG_1978-Edit-Resize

Hi there! 

I’m Kalyn—an avid reader, personal development nerd, and recovering perfectionist—who runs this corner of the web.

My mission here (and in life!) is to help women prioritize what really matters over the pressure to do it all, then establish functional systems to simplify the rest.

Tell me if this sounds familiar:

  • You're overcommitted, but have a hard time saying no.
  • You feel busy ALL the time but never seem to make any progress on your most important tasks.
  • You're overwhelmed with everything you have to do in life, because your mind constantly races and never. shuts. off.
  • You need time to yourself to refuel, or you have nothing left to give.
  • You feel like you're just going through the motions instead of LIVING life.

In other words, you're so mentally and physically maxed out, that there's very little leftover for yourself, or for the people that are most important to you.

But you also…

  • Crave habits, systems, and routines
  • Want to manage your time and money well
  • Have BIG goals you desperately want to reach
  • Desire to invest in yourself, develop self-confidence, and become the best version of who you are
  • Need to know you are not alone

My friend, you are home. 

Why this is the perfect place for you

I know what it's like to be trapped inside a life that runs you instead of the other way around. 

Like you, I wake up with BIG dreams and goals, but it doesn't matter how much I achieve, I never quite feel good enough, look pretty enough, or accomplish enough to satisfy my insanely high expectations (which are only amplified by my battle against depression).

But there is hope!

Because over time, I realized…

  • If I could make every aspect of my life simpler and more efficient, I could stop worrying about ALL the things and just do the most important things. 

  • If I had better routines, habits, and systems in place, I could rely on a solid foundation to overcome the overwhelm.

  • If I could let my best be enough, I wouldn't set unrealistic expectations for myself, then feel like a complete failure when I didn't meet them.

Which is what KalynBrooke.com is all about.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re shopping, organizing, meal planning, or decorating your home, you'll find plenty of practical ideas to make every day both manageable and meaningful.

HOME SOLUTIONS — I'm a big believer in modern homemaking and share all my secrets to help you clean easier, meal plan without the stress, and create functional organizational systems, so everything runs as smoothly as possible.
SMART MONEY — Being in charge of your money means you have the freedom to live guilt-free (and splurge on yourself!). I'll show you how to save more, spend intentionally, and create a better system to track everything, all without losing your focus, or your sanity.
EVERYDAY FOOD — You'll find dozens of easy recipes (using normal everyday ingredients!) inside my Recipe Box. Meal time has never been more simple or delicious! Especially if you use my Recipe Binder to manage it all.
PLANNING & PRODUCTIVITY — If you struggle to get it all done and never have time to pursue the things you love, my productivity strategies provide that feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day, with margin to spare. Yes, really!
LIFE & STYLE — Whether it's traveling, reading, or simply doing what makes you happy, this section rounds out the rest of your life and reminds you to not only leave room for fun, but also to treat yourself right.

My goal is never to add more to your plate. Instead, I'll help you manage everything you HAVE to do so you have energy for the things you WANT to do. I believe you're here to do great things and don't need obstacles getting in the way of your dreams.

If this is your first time visiting, I’d love for you to get to know me better.

I’m a full-time blogger who recently sold my 1,700 square foot home in exchange for a more minimalist lifestyle—living in an RV year-round!

I also share life with four of my favorites — my husband, Joseph, and two terribly destructive, but charmingly adorable bunnies named Cody and Cinder.

In addition to book hoarding and being a bit of an ice cream snob, I also love about 100 other things including, but not limited to:

  • Traveling and exploring new places
  • Shopping at Target
  • Bullet journaling
  • Watching Heartland, Poldark, and Hallmark Christmas Movies
  • Playing musical and movie soundtracks on the piano
  • Writing (obviously!)

I’m also quite the introvert, so blogging behind a computer screen is my version of the perfect job.

Where to next?

If you're new to this site, this page will give you a virtual tour so you can navigate your way around.

You can also find the most recent blog posts I've written HERE. But the absolute best way to keep up with new posts, receive special perks, and get a peek into what goes on behind-the-scenes is to hop on my mailing list, which you can do so below.

I send out a personal letter every Saturday morning packed with life lessons and action-oriented advice to help you live simply and intentionally in the days ahead. Many readers say this newsletter is the highlight of their inbox!

Don’t forget to connect with me here too: 

  • LIKE the KB Facebook page for extra resources to help you simplify and organize everyday life, live intentionally, and make more time for the things you love.
  • FOLLOW on Pinterest for cute ideas that are just as functional as they are pretty. I also share a lot of yummy and simple recipes!
  • FOLLOW on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at what I'm up to. I share books I'm reading, bullet journal pages, a strong dose of encouragement, and occasionally an adorable bunny….or two!

Or, if you’d rather contact me directly, you can send an email to [email protected]. My inbox is always open and I’d love to hear from you!



Comments

  1. Tamara Farr says

    June 25 at 1:25 pm

    Hi Kalyn,
    I just stumbled upon your site via Facebook – and I already love you! I’m sure your website will be one of my favorites as I am a new stay-at-home-mom who is stepping out of the workforce. I look forward to reading all you share! 🙂

    Reply
    • KalynBrooke says

      June 25 at 3:54 pm

      Wow – that IS a big change – good for you though. 🙂 I hope you find some useful ideas here, and thank you for your kind words!

      Reply
  2. Sofia says

    February 21 at 11:57 am

    Hey there, found your site from a Pinterest email and love the printable income tracker. Are you by chance going to FinCon this year?

    Reply
    • Kalyn Brooke says

      February 23 at 7:03 pm

      I’ve thought about FinCon, but won’t be able to make it this year – I’ll be at 2 other conferences though {SheSpeaks and possibly Allume}. There’s always so many I want to attend!

      Reply
  3. Lynne Redfield says

    March 21 at 5:42 pm

    Hi Kalyn,
    How are you and Joseph? Do you remember me? I stumbled upon your blog through pinterest. I lost my husband unexpectedly in January and my finances have changed so I’m now trying to work out a budget for myself. I am anxious to read all of your blog. I’m glad you are both doing well. I didn’t realize you were living in Florida now. So glad to see you on here!

    Reply
    • Kalyn Brooke says

      March 24 at 12:32 pm

      Hi there! Of course I remember you. 🙂 Joseph and I are both doing really well. I did hear about your husband, and I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t even imagine what you are going through, especially now that you have to rethink through your finances. I’m so glad you found me and keep in touch. <3

      Reply
  4. Kelsey Blikstad says

    April 1 at 8:35 am

    Hi Kalyn!

    I am enjoying reading your blog. We have a lot of the same ideas. I love frugal living!
    My husband and I also reside in SW FL. We live in Cape Coral.

    Reply
    • Kalyn Brooke says

      April 3 at 1:13 pm

      How fun! My husband and I just put in an offer on a house in the Cape. So pretty there!

      A friend and I are working on a FL blogger meetup in Punta Gorda and would love to invite you if you’re interested. 🙂

      Reply
      • Kelsey Blikstad says

        April 4 at 2:05 pm

        Congrats on the offer! I currently work in the real estate business – housing (and building) is back in the booming stage. Cape Coral is a great place to live 🙂 I was born here, and things have certainly changed!

        I saw the e-mail about the blogger event – wish I could make it! Thanks for the invite.

        Reply
  5. Sylvia says

    July 27 at 6:22 pm

    Hi Kalyn!!
    I’m so curious what do you think about baby shower party ideas! what would you do??

    Reply
    • Kalyn Brooke says

      July 29 at 5:03 pm

      I’ve never thrown one before, so I would probably go hunting on Pinterest! I have some really cute ideas pinned on my Party Board: https://www.pinterest.com/creativesavings/lets-have-a-party/

      Reply
  6. Eve Eriss says

    January 13 at 4:34 pm

    Have you ever heard of Stroom box? It looks like a wonderful alternative to cable but I don’t see much about it on the internet.

    Reply
    • Kalyn Brooke says

      January 14 at 12:22 pm

      I’ve heard about it but have not tried it. Check out my post: https://kalynbrooke.com/money-saving-tips/alternatives-to-cable/ and be sure to read the comments as there are other readers who have some information about Stroom.

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Hi, I’m Kalyn—a recovering perfectionist who nerds out about organizing systems, personal productivity, and helping you prioritize what matters over the pressure to do it all. I have a feeling we’re about to become the best of friends! Learn more >>

New? Start Here!

  • Take a Tour
  • Become a BFF
  • Favorite Recipes
  • The Printable Library
  • Just for Bloggers
  • Visit the Shop

kalynbrookeco

👩‍💻 | I help value-driven women lead manageable + meaningful lives.
💬 | INFJ / Enneagram 1
🚙 | RV Life @openroading
👇 | Resources + Links


Instagram post 2195472097631980499_242948575
Recently, we visited our storage unit to swap out a few things. 📦⁣
⁣
Almost one year has passed since we stuffed this 9’x9’ space with furniture, decor, and other odds and ends in order to travel in our RV full-time. And during our year on the road, I’ve not missed ANYTHING … until I saw my possessions in person! 💔⁣
⁣
For a brief second, I wanted to sell the RV and buy a sticks-and-bricks home just so I could fill it with all my stuff. 🏠⁣
⁣
Thankfully, this mental lapse didn’t last very long. 😌⁣
⁣
Because almost just as quickly, I thought of all the experiences we’ve shared over the last year that I would have had to trade in order to do that, and suddenly I didn’t feel so attached anymore. ⁣
⁣
Courtney Carver from @bemorewithless says, “I don’t want my legacy to be containers of stuff.” In other words, people won’t remember you by the amount of stuff you leave behind. They’ll remember you for WHO you are. 🤗⁣
⁣
I want people to remember me as the gal who said yes to adventure and not someone who couldn’t say no to a Hobby Lobby sale. 🏷⁣
⁣
And so, that means decluttering a few more things that I don't need (in the RV OR in a future home!) and holding onto the simple nomad life for a little while longer. 💼⁣
⁣
What do you want your legacy to be? ⁣
⁣
#lifeisajourney #homeonwheels #storageunit #theeverygirl #rvlife #rvliving #rvfamily #livelifetothefullest #tinyliving #traveloften #gorving #homeiswhereyouparkit #camperlife #campers #fifthwheelin #fifthwheeler #declutterwithkb #decluttering #declutterlikeamother #declutteryourhome declutteryourlife

Instagram post 2193191654663675970_242948575
The busiest month of the year doesn’t have to be one you dread, especially when you try this simple, yet brilliant hack: 👇⁣
⁣
**Number your to-do list.** ⁣
⁣
1️⃣ Start by spilling everything you need to do this week onto the page (don’t worry about the order yet!)⁣
2️⃣ Identify your top priority.⁣
3️⃣ Number the rest of your tasks in order of importance. That’s it!⁣
⁣
Psst… I use pencil just in case I change my mind and want to switch things around! ✏⁣
⁣
This method does two things:⁣
⁣
💛 It helps you focus on the next right thing...not ALL the things!⁣
⁣
💛 It forces you to prioritize. When everything is important, nothing is important. And you want to make sure the most important things actually get done. ⁣
⁣
FYI: You don’t have to go to every party or keep every tradition just because it’s something you “should” do or “always have done” in past holiday seasons. Lean into what you love most about this month and find freedom in letting the rest go. 👋⁣
⁣
Because somehow, having less stuff to do makes the things you CHOOSE to do all that more special. 💖

Instagram post 2190817877047784603_242948575
Even though we won't be spending Christmas in the RV, I just had to put up a few decorations to enjoy before we leave! 🎄⁣
⁣
The next three weeks will be our first time traveling without our home-on-wheels and I'm feeling all sorts of anxiety over choosing what items to pack. We've always had everything we need with us, which means I'll probably forget something. 😬 RV living tends to spoil you in that way!⁣
⁣
Q: Are you staying home for the holidays or going out of town?

Instagram post 2188622923628264971_242948575
Earlier this fall I hosted a Facebook challenge where I invited you to define what self-care looks like for your life while making an intentional effort to incorporate it into your week. 📆⁣
⁣
This event was even more popular than I expected, and I am so pleased with the positive results many of you shared!⁣
⁣
What I didn't expect? 👀⁣
⁣
The haters.⁣
⁣
Some readers morally disagreed with my Facebook self-care event and let me know by messaging me and calling self-care "misguided," "unbiblical," and even an "idol." ⁣
⁣
Let me be clear: I do agree that we should be careful about our priorities and not neglect our responsibilities completely for the sake of a little me-time.⁣
⁣
👨‍👩‍👦 Your family still needs you.⁣
👨‍👩‍👦 Your church still needs you.⁣
👨‍👩‍👦 Your community still needs you.⁣
⁣
What they don't need is someone who is a frazzled, stressed-out mess who serves out of obligation rather than joy. Because when we demonize rest, we inadvertently swing the pendulum the other way and create an idol out of working, serving, and hustling. ⚖⁣
⁣
God didn't intend for us to wear ourselves out for His glory. Rather, I think He created us with needs (food, water, shelter, rest, etc.) to remind us that we ultimately *need* Him.⁣
⁣
So when you take time to address those needs and care for yourself, remember that it's not selfish. It's just wise.

Instagram post 2186605700330038386_242948575
Are you ready for Turkey Day tomorrow? Although I’m not hosting this year, I’m helping my sis-in-law prepare and contributing my Creamy Parmesan Mashed potatoes and a cherry pie (Joseph’s request) ☝ to the menu. ⁣
⁣
When I *did* host Thanksgiving, my family made fun of me for being over-prepared, but they later told me it was the smoothest Thanksgiving they’ve ever had—and they weren’t just talking about the mashed potatoes! 🥔⁣
⁣
I relied on these seven tips to pull things off without a hitch:⁣
⁣
1️⃣ Read over your recipes one more time and confirm you have ALL the ingredients. ⁣
⁣
2️⃣ Create your day-of timeline. Calculate backward from dinner time so you know exactly what needs to be in the oven when.⁣
⁣
3️⃣ Copy/hang recipes on your cabinets  so you can see everything you need to make at a glance rather than being forced to flip through several cookbooks.⁣
⁣
4️⃣ Lay out and label all food dishes (including serving ware) with sticky notes.⁣
⁣
5️⃣ Set the table. (And perhaps bust out some crime scene tape to keep kiddos out of the dining room!) 🤣⁣
⁣
6️⃣ Make whatever food you can ahead of time, whether it’s chopping veggies, assembling dry ingredients, or making the entire recipe and refrigerating until it’s time to warm! ⁣
⁣
7️⃣ Do a quick clean of your kitchen so it’s fresh and ready for the big day!⁣
⁣
Remember: the point of Thanksgiving is NOT to pull it off perfectly. 🚫⁣
⁣
No one cares if you spill blueberries for the fruit salad all over the floor (true story) or you pull a too-jiggly peanut butter pie out of the fridge because it didn’t set right (also a true story). Those are just extra memories you can add to a table already brimming with abundance...and gratitude. 🍽Q: What is your favorite pie to eat at Thanksgiving?

Instagram post 2184616251306487700_242948575
Family members are just about as different as the ice cream toppings they choose. 🍨⁣
⁣
Even though we love them unconditionally, it's not easy for family to come together during the holidays and have it be completely drama-free. There's increased social pressure, obligation, tradition, personality differences, and always a comment or two that makes you bristle, whether it was intended that way or not! 😤⁣
⁣
So, how can you celebrate holidays without the drama? 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦⁣
⁣
PREPARE. Head into family get-togethers knowing how you’ll respond in a tense situation. 🗣⁣
⁣
Here are three ideas:⁣
⁣
1️⃣ Leave the conversation and start a new one with someone else. 🚶🏻‍♀️⁣
2️⃣ Ignore the frustrating comments, and shift the conversation. 🤐⁣
3️⃣ Engage--but instead of gearing up for battle, respond with a curiosity-driven dialogue. Ask questions in order to understand the other person's perspective, rather than focus on "winning" the argument. 🥊⁣
⁣
Most of all, prioritize being kind over being right. Because if you approach conversations with a different attitude, your button-pusher might too. 😉⁣
⁣
Q: On a lighter note, what is YOUR favorite ice cream topping? I love rainbow sprinkles!


Load More…


Follow on Instagram


ARE YOU EXHAUSTED TRYING TO DO IT ALL?

Privacy Policy
You’ll love the freedom found inside my Saturday morning newsletter
Copyright © 2019 · Privacy Policy
ALMOST THERE!
Complete this form and click the button below to gain instant access.
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
ARE YOU EXHAUSTED TRYING TO DO IT ALL?
Privacy Policy
You'll love the freedom found inside my Saturday morning newsletter
Privacy Policy
ALMOST THERE!
Complete this form and click the button below to gain instant access.
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
ALMOST THERE!
Complete this form and click the button below to gain instant access.
Privacy Policy
ALMOST THERE!
Complete this form and click the button below to gain instant access.
Privacy Policy