Maria Eckersley is an expert at what she calls easy, lazy fun. She’s the mother of six kids, and runs a blog at meckmom.com, where she shares posts and products to help you be the fun mom, including lots of great printables from chore charts to games to party planning packs.

Maria is one of those women who just exudes joy. This interview is full of fun, meaningful ways to connect with our kids, ideas about how to create a positive family culture, how to pursue your own passions while cultivating your kids’ passions, and how to overcome trials, of which the Eckersley family has had plenty.