Booked & Unfiltered: Summer Kickoff Reflections

In this lively and relatable episode of My Simplified Life, Michelle Glogovac and Stephanie Hockersmith share candid reflections on recent family vacations, the chaos of end-of-school-year activities, and the art of juggling parenting with personal time. From cruise ship competitions and school projects to navigating theme park rides with kids, Michelle and Stephanie dive into the real-life moments that define modern motherhood. They chat about family dynamics at Disney and Epcot, the magic of creating lasting memories, and how ride preferences can spark deeper insights into our kids' personalities. The conversation also touches on the importance of conservation, finding everyday peace amidst chaos, and why summer is the perfect time to reconnect—with your family and yourself. To wrap up, they share their most-anticipated summer book picks and how the right read can shift your mindset, inspire growth, and spark joy. Whether you're planning your own family trip or just trying to survive the summer shuffle, this episode offers laughs, heart, and a reminder that stories—both lived and read—matter deeply. What We're Talking About... Vacation can feel like another dimension. It's important to romanticize everyday life. Real life often interrupts our vacation mindset. Family trips can create lasting memories. Unexpected talents can emerge in fun situations. School projects often fall on parents' shoulders. End of school year can be hectic for families. Summer should be a time for relaxation and fun. Traveling with family requires careful planning. Finding joy in small moments is essential. Stephanie shares her fear of Ferris wheels and how she copes with it. The Matterhorn ride at Disneyland is nostalgic but physically challenging. Children have unique preferences and fears regarding rides. Conversations about respecting children's choices in activities are important. Cooper's passion for conservation shines through in his interests. Finding moments of peace in daily life is crucial for mental health. Books can provide inspiration and refresh our minds. Anticipating summer reads can be an exciting experience. Women have historically shown incredible strength and resilience. Literature can be a source of joy and connection.  Chapters 00:00 Vacation Reflections and Family Adventures 03:03 The Joys and Challenges of Family Life 05:58 Cruise Competition and Unexpected Talents 08:48 Back to Reality: School Projects and Responsibilities 12:04 Navigating the End of School Year 15:00 Summer Plans and Travel Discussions 18:42 Thrills and Chills at Theme Parks 22:34 Family Dynamics and Ride Preferences 24:59 Passion for Conservation and Nature 29:30 Finding Peace Amidst Chaos 30:47 Books That Inspire and Refresh 36:28 Anticipating Summer Reads