**I was given a chance to drive a Mazda CX-3 for a review. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
We recently purchased a small business since moving to Texas. It’s been a new adventure for me. The combination of a salon and boutique. (The boutique is also online.) For the first time since Jayden was born I am going into work several days a week. I have been a work at home mom for more than 8 years now. Getting in the car and leaving my babies has been a new experience!
My hat is off to you mommas that have been doing this for years! You are ROCK STARS!
Our store is not too far of a commute from our house, but it’s not around the corner. 25 minutes in the car to work can be a little mundane. I love to drive, but I can also think of about a BILLION things I could have done in the 25 minutes! I noticed I was getting a little fidgety in during my commute. I decided I needed to make the most out of my drive time.
I began with some simple ideas and now I LOVE my drove and find it makes my day even better. I am a mom making the most out of my commute.
1. Enjoy the SILENCE
I realized that my drive was quiet. Really. Really quiet. You don’t realize just how loud six children are until you are in a quiet vehicle with no one shouting at their brother or sister. It is… in a word… peaceful.
I am a huge fan of big band music and jazz. You know the stuff you hear in old movies and in the elevator??? I love it. And I love it even more when it is playing softly while driving.
The few minutes during your drive to work may be the only time you have to enjoy silence. If you are like me the bathroom at home doesn’t count as silence, since they either follow me in or bang on the door the whole time!
2. Do a Brain Dump or Make a List
I am NOT telling you to be unsafe while driving and write things down or play on your phone. But you CAN use this amazing new technology called Siri. Car phone/ Bluetooth access is such an amazing invention! With the touch of a button I can tell my phone to make a list.
No more trying to remember all the things my brain was swirling around while driving… I can get them out, written and stored never taking my hands off the steering wheel. I make grocery lists, To-Do lists, get out whole business strategy plans and more while on my way to work!
I recently test drove the Mazda CX3 Grand Touring and was able to drive this snazzy car to work for several days. Everything was at my fingertips for doing a brain dumps, lists, and listening to music while driving. The Mazda Connect Infotainment is standard on every CX-3. It provides information, entertainment, and a connection to the outside word while driving. The multifunction Commander Control on the center console was easy to use and sync to my phone. This system is top of the line!
It was a really great commuting vehicle. 34 estimated MPG is on point for saving me “All the money” with this vehicle! The Mazda CX-3 is also a Top 2016 Safety Pick Plus when equipped with Smart City Brake Support. It also can come with rear cross traffic alerts and advanced blind spot monitoring.
It is a compact car, but it had a smooth ride and was perfect for me driving to work. I did take the twins out for a little drive and they loved it! It fit both carseats with no problems. It has 5 passenger seating and leather trimmed seats. Leather seats are a must for me. The kids make too many messes! HA!
The Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring starts at $24,990. It is worth looking into if you are in need of a commuting vehicle! Check out more info HERE.
3. Listen to an Audio Book
I love books. But I just don’t have the time to read. Or if I do decide to read at night in bed my book falls on my nose when I nod off to sleep! So… Yah… Reading doesn’t happen often.
However, my sister pointed out to me that audio books are amazing! Which they are… I can easily play an audio book on the way to work and enjoy some “reading” time.
4. Savor your Coffee
I love, love, love coffee. It is my favorite. But I get a little frazzled in the mornings getting everyone breakfast and getting them dressed and out the door for school, as well as myself and don’t get to enjoy my whole cup of coffee before it gets cold. I want to savor every drop of coffee! I make a second cup of coffee to go just before leaving and it is the most wonderful thing to drink hot, delicious coffee in the quiet car.
5. Catch up with a Friend
I don’t get to chat with my friends very often. The quiet car ride to work is the perfect opportunity to make a quick phone call to a bestie and catch up for just a few minutes. We are both busy women, a 10-15 minute chat is the perfect way to catch up and feel awesome I was able to talk to a friend!
I really am enjoying my drive to work now. I consider it a great part of my working day. Hope these tips help you too!
Happy Driving,
Keikilani
Rebecca Bryant says
I don’t drive but when I am riding in the car I enjoy playing candy crush or reading. On long trips reading is my go to.
Melanie MG says
My favorite thing to do is to call a friend and catch up! It beats texting any day <3
Dawn nieves says
Love that Blue color! This are great tips and looks like a great car!
Erin @ Stay at Home Yogi says
When I commuted to school (1.5 hour each way!) I always had snacks, water, and a nice travel mug of coffee. Next I needed good music! 🙂 I just tried to have a good attitude about it, expect the unexpected, and always give myself plenty of extra getting ready and driving time.
Mandy Carter says
I used to have a long commute back when I worked a full time corporate job. One of the biggest financial sucks and time loss of my life. So happy to no longer have to do this. I like the car but wouldnt need it for commutes!!
Milena says
This looks like a great ride. I drive my son to school every day and it’s 20 minutes one way. I’ve learned how to make the most of it.
Liz Mays says
You’re definitely right about these things. I should really start playing audio books when I’m driving. That Mazda is sweet!
Molly Kumar says
Those are some great tips on things todo while commuting, my personal fav is siri & making list 😉 I love having that peaceful time in the car where I can listen to my kind of music. The car looks spacious, comfy n love the color.