From Neat to Practical

Life definitely changes around the house after having kids. "Things" that used to be neat and well organized become last minute choirs: tidying up the house, gift  shopping, planning a party.... Not to mention personal time to dress up and even eat! Life becomes a lot more practical.
I recently read a list of things that moms secretly do last minute from one of the writers at Hybrid Mom, and came up with my personal list:

- Planning is supposed to be done in advance, but it turned out to be a lot more practical (and shorter termed) after having kids.
- Eating is when possible.
- Make-up is back to basics.
- Shopping for myself. It is easier to keep using the same outfits and shoes. Time to try new outfits is almost non-existent, unless they come up with a way to try clothes online. If really necessary, it will be very last minute, no time for alterations (can't get any more practical than that!). Shipping time may not be fast enough.
- Dressing up for parties can't take more than 30 minutes, and it works! Oh, that includes hair and make-up, but not heels. These I can wait until I have to leave the car.
- Last but not least....sleeping. So important, but with a baby in the house, it can be whenever possible.

It sounds very chaotic, but somehow it really works!
What is your list?