Dinner on Friday was tense and grumpy.

It was “transition day” for my stepdaughter, her first day back at our house after being at her mom’s.

This day is always tough—big feelings as she adjusts to a new atmosphere and we shift from being parents of two to three.

There was whining, complaining, and attitude… and my husband and I, after a long week, were definitely over it.

I wanted to lecture, but I knew we really just needed to laugh.

So, I suggested, “20 Questions. I’m thinking of something… start guessing!”

(It was a pumpkin, if you’re curious.)

My stepdaughter went next and was thinking of “Christmas tree." I got it right away and we laughed, shocked that we were on the same wavelength.

My husband’s turn was tricky -- he was thinking of “Thanksgiving dinner” and we couldn't get it for the longest time. We teased him about how hard it was.

Then my three-year-old, who’d never played, wanted a turn.

This is where it got really hilarious:

He bounced with excitement as we asked if it was food, a toy, anything we could think of.

Every answer was a mischievous “Noooo…!” and we were all giggling.

Finally, my husband guessed, “Are you thinking of NOTHING?”

“YES!!!!” my son shouted, thrilled. 😂

We were all laughing hysterically at this point and the night was soooo much smoother from there on out.

I hadn’t wanted to play at first.

Honestly, I felt like staying frustrated. But I knew play could turn things around, and it did.

My invitation to you this week:

When things feel tense, see if you can flip the switch to playful with a simple game.

And if you can’t, that’s okay too. We’re all doing our best.

Love,
Mia

P.S. Something fun is coming for the holidays—stay tuned! ❄️

P.P.S. I’m gearing up to refresh a lot of my business offerings! My $5 guide, From Tired to Playful, will likely be retired by mid-November—so grab it while it’s here. 😉 Tap here to get yours!​