Stephanie, I would suggest starting a personalized list of verbs organized by 'avere'/'essere' which you can compile as you go, based on the verbs you've needed. Then create an "anchor" phrase or two using each verb, and let that anchor phrase be something true and relevant. For example, 'Ho imparato molto oggi', and, 'Sono andato a Roma una volta'. This way it's contextualized, and ready to use in conversation.