Mommy Has to Work

Balancing Act – 5 Tips for Working Moms to Stay Ahead of the Game

March 18, 2019 By Anne

Photo by Sai De Silva on Unsplash

School time traffic, plenty of stress, deadlines, and crying; the best way to describe your lifestyle as a working mom is LOUD. Of course, being able to provide for your beautiful child or children while growing your career is rewarding. It’s when those nasty periods come about when all your responsibilities seem to stack up into an infinite pile, where it can be difficult to feel the gratitude. Here are five ways you can regain control and get back on top:

1. The Right Child Care Arrangements

Choosing the right care for your little one can be a challenge. You don’t want to disrupt their routine too much, and you also might feel conscious about missing their developmental milestones. Opt for a childcare center that is focused on creating a balance in your child’s life and is open to discussing and supporting your child’s individual needs.

For security, ensure that they employ qualified educators and have a good teacher-student ratio for optimal supervision. You need to choose a place that both you and your child feel comfortable with so do not worry if it takes a bit of time.

2. Weekly Meal Prepping

Meal prepping is not just for the vigilante fitness bloggers and it really is not as difficult as you may think to prepare meals and snacks for weeks in advance. After all, you’ll be preparing meals you would normally cook otherwise that can be refrigerated or frozen. The only difference is you’ll be cooking a week’s worth. This is also a great way to avoid excess food waste and encourage a regular, balanced diet.

You’ll need to schedule a time, ensure you have all the right ingredients, utensils and cookware and allow a couple of hours to stock up on all the needed groceries and get the cooking and packing sorted. You will not miss the rush of trying to prepare kindergarten or school lunches and snacks for the family on a tight morning schedule.

3. Strategic Carpool and Play Dates

Chances are, you are not the only busy parent in your child’s life. Reach out to your partner, family members, friends and peers for some shared responsibilities to help each other out during demanding activity periods. This could be alternating carpool days to daycare or school, sharing drop-off and pick-up duties or organizing a weekly play date at a friend’s house on that afternoon you have the biggest workload – in exchange for returning the favor at a different time.

4. Flexible Work Arrangements

Employers are generally understanding of childcare and parenting duties and will want to keep their hardworking staff happy and satisfied at work. Schedule a meeting with your boss or HR department to discuss flexibility in your routine. This doesn’t necessarily need to mean working remotely 100% of the time but possibly adjusting your hours to accommodate for school pickups or having one day a week where you can work remotely to accommodate your other responsibilities.

5. Embrace Quality Family Time You Do Have

It’s unfortunately common for working mums to feel a bit of occasional guilt over not living up to preconceived expectations they may have. While you can overcome this fairly easily with some mindfulness or reflection, you do not want to be projecting your feelings of guilt or scarcity to your children. Instead, make the most of the quality time you have with your family, switch your phone to Do Not Disturb mode and join in play time with your kids!

Being a working mum can be hard but by following through with these five tips, you’ll be able to regain your work-life balance and enjoy better quality family time. Don’t let seemingly endless responsibilities stop you from enjoying the journey that is motherhood.

Anne

I'm a mother of 2 who likes to get involved in too much! Besides writing here I started a non-profit, I'm on the PTO board, very active in my community and volunteer in the school. I enjoy music, reading, cooking, traveling and spending time with my family. We just adopted our 3rd cat and love them all!

9 Hacks for a Decor with a More Spacious Appeal

March 18, 2019 By Anne

It is always nice to have a spacious appeal. It gives a satisfactory expression on the visitors’ face. If you already have a spacious area, then no problem. But if you have a small space to make it look spacious, then there are ways to do it. They are simple and easy to install. They are hacks for more spacious appeal.

So, here are 9 hacks for décor with a more spacious appeal.

White wall colors

White wall colors are bright during the day. They reflect light. So, they help in spreading enough light on to the corners of the room. When you throw light to all the corners, it gives a spacious appeal. It is good to add bright colors or white colors to the walls.

The white color is the best choice. They suit any type of space. Be it commercial space or residential space, white suit any place. If you do not prefer white, go for lighter shades of bright colors like cream shade, baby pink shades and many more. They too are pretty good at reflecting light.

Acoustic baffle panels

To create a spacious appeal, availing some amount to space is essential. So, to décor do not use the floor space. Use the ceiling for the decoration. Hang acoustic baffle panels to your ceiling. They will decorate your space and relax the environment too. Even the environment create depth in the area. Acoustic baffle panels are available at various prices. This makes it possible for anybody to use them.

High-wall mounted shelves

Tall walls are always preferred for creating a spacious room illusion. To make that length of the wall mount, use decors. Add a high wall mounted shelves. Mount them at a distance from the floor to the wall. This will make your visitors look up. Then, they will notice your tall walls. Your effort to create an illusion of a spacious room would get completed.

It is easy to install a high-wall mount shelf. You can add some bright and catchy decors in them. It will attract the attention of the viewers. This is easy and simple. All you need is a portable shelf and some time to nail it.

Acoustic fabric wall covering

Walls are the best place to decorate. They do not use your space and yet creates a beautiful look. The atmosphere in a room will help people feel the spaciousness of the place. So, to get a combined effect of spacious place and a calm place, use acoustic fabric wall covering. They save space. They absorb noise. They even create a beautiful look with the help of fabric wall covering. They are worth your investment.

Mirror work

Mirror work is the best way to make your space look wide and large. Mirrors will reflect back anything in front of it. So use mirrors. Place them or affix them with a full length to one of the side walls of the room. They will reflect what is on the other side. This will create an illusion of extension.

When any somebody visits your place, they will not be able to make out the difference unless the touch it. There are professionals who are great at this art. Mirror works are also done with different methods. They cost according to labor work. Mirror work is a great hack for décor with a more spacious appeal.

Acoustic mat

Anyways you will be using the mats for your room. Use acoustic mat instead of plain ones. Add designed mats to give more dimensions to your area. They have a special property of absorbing the unwanted noise. They help you in decorating the place. Acoustic mat is available in various designs. Their geometric designs create a peaceful environment and spacious look to your place.

Geometric decors

Geometric decors always change the dimensions appeal. They help you to add more depth to your place. Must to use decor hacks to make your small place look spacious. There are many decors made in different geometric shapes. You can add different sizes of decors to your shelves and tables.

Do not add too many shapes. They might cause a chaotic atmosphere. If you are using only square or cubic shape, add only those types. If you want to use different shapes, then decorate only one part of the place. Along with the spacious appeal, it is also important to make it a relaxing and pleasant place.

Acoustic partition

Create small partitions at a distance from the entrance. This will create a spacious appeal to your entrance. Acoustic partitions are best at partitioning the space. They also have space to add decors over them. They are also available in various designs. They absorb echoes and unpleasant sounds letting your visitors enjoy your spacious place. A good mirror work over them will help you to create an illusion of extension. So, add an acoustic partition to your space for peace and spacious appeal.

Remove unwanted things

Easiest hack is to remove unwanted things from the space. This makes more empty space at your place. Remove unwanted extra sofa, chairs and tables. They will make a large space in your room. In fact, you can sell them or give to someone who is in need. Get rid of old and unwanted things.

After you remove them, clean up the empty space. So, you would have retained the most necessary things. Re-arrange the remaining things. This will leave space for emptiness. That will make your place look large. This hack requires no money. If you plan well, you can gain by selling your used goods.

Conclusion

Above are 9 hacks for décor with a more spacious appeal. They are simple to understand. They easy to adapt. They are very effective in making your place look spacious. They are available almost everywhere. So, us these hacks in any area you want. They will help you make the difference.

Anne

Groove Silicone Rings Review

March 17, 2019 By Marijean

Do you have an occupation that will not allow you to wear metal type jewelry? Gold/metal wedding bands can cause harm in certain job fields. Or if you lead an active lifestyle…you need to check out Groove Life Silicone Rings they are amazing!

THE WORLD’S FIRST BREATHABLE SILICONE RING

We get it. Wearing your hard metal ring on the job or at the gym is uncomfortable. More importantly, you run the risk of losing your finger if your ring is caught on something. We made Groove to solve these problems so that you can push your limits, achieve your goals, and live life with a little less worry. Groove On!

Groove offers different types of rings for men and women. They offer designs and colors that everyone will love. I was sent the following:

Groove Thin Silicone Ring in Copper color

Women’s Stackable Silicone Wedding Ring-Air in Mint/White colors

Stackable Women’s Air Twilight Patterned Wedding Rings

I was very impressed by the quality and feel of these rings. Each set is super light, you forget you are even wearing them! I lead an active lifestyle with my children, so I did wear these rings swimming, playing soccer and doing lots and lots of walking at a local theme park. They were perfect to wear while exercising in the Florida heat. They were super comfortable to have on, and very breathable. I love all of the available colors and patterns….my favorite is the mint/white combination. It matches my apple watch band perfectly.

Sizing:

How will you know what size to order? Check out this great sizing guide to help you with your measurements. The rings are designed to fit snug, even if you are certain of your ring size, please re-measure using their guide. Groove also offers an easy exchange policy just in case your rings do not fit. You can also try 3 different rings out for 5 days (only $1.99 shipping, and return shipping is free). Groove makes it super easy and convenient. I ordered a size 5 which is what I wear in my normal rings, and the Groove rings fit perfectly.

Warranty Details:

Groove offers an AMAZING warranty for the rings!

OUR 94 YEAR UNLIMITED WARRANTY

Groove silicone rings are tough, durable and ready to endure anything. However, for your safety, Groove is designed to stretch or tear under pressure so you lose a ring; not a finger. No matter what happens, we will cover your Groove Ring with our NO BS Warranty! If your ring gets damaged, cut, stretched, stuck in nuclear waste, eaten by a fish, or even LOST we will replace it. Our mission is to blow your mind and we’ll go above and beyond to make you happy!

Did you know our No BS Warranty applies to all Groove Adventure Gear too? If your gear gets torn, stretched out, or even LOST we’ll replace it. That’s Groove… we’re not like other companies!

In conclusion, if you lead an active lifestyle, work in an industry where you cannot wear metal type jewelry, or just want to be more fashionable…I highly recommend Groove Life Rings. They are extremely comfortable and look amazing!!

Check out the website to order and for more information: https://groovelife.com

*I received the mention rings in exchange for this post. All opinions are my own.

Marijean

My name is MJ. I have two wonderful children and work part time as well as volunteer at my children's school.

7 Unique Post Valentine’s Gift Ideas for Candy Lovers

March 7, 2019 By Anne

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/HjnFuC5pcA8

Valentine’s Day is long over. But February, the official love month, isn’t. Surprising the candy and chocolate connoisseur of your life doesn’t require any type of holiday. And if they’re familiar with the common ones, what better way to surprise them than by gifting them the most unique ones?

In fact, you don’t have to limit your gift options to just candy and chocolate during this candy-driven holiday. Curious? Check out the list below for some of the most unique post V-Day ideas for candy lovers:

Personalized Candy Box

If you know your partner’s candy preferences like the back of your hand, then you already know what kinds of chocolate and candy to give them. Instead of just buying a few to wrap in a present and give it to them, make it more special by gifting them something more personalized. If the candy company doesn’t offer this option, you can DIY instead.

Create a personalized candy box that contains all their favorite sweets. You can buy a pre-made candy box to make it easier for you. If you have a long-distance relationship, this is the gift that will impress them.

If you want to go the extra mile, consider sending it with a custom photo book. You can personalize it however you want, so include photos of you together if you want because it’s Valentine’s Day after all.

Dessert-Themed Makeup

If your partner happens to adore candy and makeup, this is something that will definitely win you your love points this Valentine’s Day. If you’re clueless about makeup and even more so for dessert-themed ones, there’s no shame in consulting your trusty web search engine. A tell-tale characteristic of a dessert-themed makeup is colorful and fun packaging.

Before you consult Google to look for candy-themed makeup, take care to make sure that you’re not re-purchasing something your partner already has. It may take a little finesse here and there but observe your mate’s stash and get the makeup they don’t own yet. Here is a list to help you out.

Candy Lingerie

It’s a gift for your partner as much as it is yours… if you get the drift. Everyone loves lingerie but you get double the fun when it’s something you can eat instead of taking off. There are a lot of varieties you can choose from. Buying candy lingerie is a perfect excuse to satisfy you and your partner’s curiosity.

Bacon & Chocolate

Most people love bacon and when you combine it with chocolate, the combo just elevates it as a whole. Combining sweet and savory may be something that your lover hasn’t tried out yet. This is a great gift if they happen to love bacon as well.

If they already tried bacon-flavored chocolate, you can switch it up. There are pastries and goods that combine bacon and chocolate such as Twinkies and Oreos as well. Who knows… you both might like it and you end up buying for two.

Candy Subscription

Does your sweet-toothed beau want something new and different every month? Consider getting them a subscription to Japanese-themed candy boxes that deliver every month. You don’t only just get candy because loyal subscribers can be rewarded with J-Coins that you can use to redeem prizes. This way you can show them your love and devotion throughout the year.

Alcohol-Infused Gummies

It’s been in and out over the years but liquor and candy do go together. In fact, candies infused with different kinds of alcohol are wildly popular among adults. This item is kept general for variety’s sake. If you are familiar with your SO’s preferred drink and choice of candy, then you shouldn’t have any trouble finding out what to give them.

If you’re still confused, you can buy Rosé gummy bears for your lover if it’s something they are into. Rose and champagne are not the only alcohol you can pair with gummies. Other popular liquors include vodka, gin, whiskey, and even rum!

Valentine’s Hot Chocolate

For some people in the US, February is still a little chilly and that is why hot chocolate is a popular drink during this time. It’s a perfect gift for your Valentine’s as well. Isn’t it just a dream to just chill whole day or at night with your lover with nothing but a hot cup of chocolate in your hands?

There is Valentines-themed hot chocolate that you can readily buy for your SO. The usual hot cocoa mix is replaced or added with strawberry and white chocolate flavors to make them pink to fit the holiday. If you want to go through the homemade route, you can do so as well. There are plenty of recipes that you can find online that are easy to follow.

Bottom Line

Valentine’s Day has been commercialized for so long that it is easy to get pressured by loved ones and family to give gifts that could be way over your budget. Why not veer away from tradition and express your love every chance you get? It’s great to be generous, especially for the people you love. Homemade alternatives can be made if you fancy putting in more effort to customize your sweets.

What are your unique gift ideas you love to give for candy lovers? Share them down below.

Anne

“Instant Family” now available on Digital/DVD/Blu-ray

March 5, 2019 By Marijean

Looking for a new family friendly DVD for movie night? Look no further, INSTANT FAMILY is now available on Digital/DVD/Blu-ray.

The heartwarming film, inspired by the real events from the life of writer/director Sean Anders, follows Pete (Mark Wahlberg) and Ellie (Rose Byrne) as they decide to start a family and stumble into the world of foster care adoption. They hope to take in one small child but when they meet three siblings, including a rebellious 15 year old girl (Isabela Moner), they find themselves speeding from zero to three kids overnight. Now, Pete and Ellie must hilariously try to learn the ropes of instant parenthood in the hopes of becoming a family. INSTANT FAMILY also stars Octavia Spencer, Tig Notaro and Margo Martindale. The film is rated PG-13.

My family and I couldn’t wait to watch this movie on our family movie night. We even received a cute kit that has items in it based upon moments from the film. We all laughed and some of us even cried during the movie. We highly recommend!!