Your mom was there with you through all the moments, whether it was those times when she supported your decisions or early in your life when she had to put her foot down to keep you out of harm’s way. It therefore stands to reason that you should show her some love and appreciation next time Mother’s Day or her birthday comes around.

Keep in mind that getting a great gift for mom isn’t just buying the most expensive gift; it’s about taking time to prepare so that you get her something she’ll love long after you gift it to her. Three main things will affect the type of gift you get for your mother: your budget, her preferences, and personalization.

Here are a few ideas for gifting the lady who gave you life.

A stylish watch

This year, you want to get your mom something a bit more unique than a box of chocolates. A nice watch would be cherished long after chocolates have been chomped down and flowers have wilted. The style of the watch should fit her personality.

Is she the practical, sporty type? Then a smart watch would be ideal as she would use it to track her fitness progress, sleep cycles, steps, etc. On the other hand, she might be a Broadway fan. A watch with gemstones would in this case be great for accessorizing her evening dress.

Jewelry

Having an appreciation for design is not about creed, title or age. Mothers are fierce. They share the same innate desires as their daughters. An elegant necklace or earring is a great gift for a woman regardless of her age. Find your mom jewelry with a design that is ageless, elegant and luxurious. No woman’s collection of accessories is complete without gorgeous jewelry.

Collectible themed tea set

Collectible items are always a nice touch, especially when they are in line with your mom’s interests. For example, she may fancy Disney characters and the magic of the fantastical world. In that case, a dainty Beauty and the Beast – Mrs Potts & Chip Tea Set would certainly be appreciated as much for its beauty as for its practicability.

A lovely duvet

Momma had enough sleepless nights taking care of you while you were toddler. Reward her now and show your appreciation by buying her a nice, warm, snuggly duvet. She needs her rest. You can go for one that has natural filling, which is soft, warm and breathable. Just make sure you get her bed measurements right and take into account any allergies she might have.

A Kindle

She’s always been an avid reader, your mom. So for her upcoming coming birthday, a Kindle would prove to be the ultimate gift that keeps on gifting. She could read her favorite author’s work at home while sipping coffee, or she could take it with her on her flights. With a built-in dictionary and on-demand translator, it might be better than any single book you would buy her.

A lot of attention has been paid recently to the wide gap in stress and responsibility division between parents. Even in households where fathers insist that they share the workload, studies have shown that women are still responsible for the vast majority of the home’s labor. This is especially true of emotional and mental labor. And if you’ve ever felt steam coming out of your ears after hearing a man refer to taking care of his own kids as “babysitting,” you know what we’re talking about.

The fact is that most of the work done by Moms goes unnoticed and only comes to our attention if she stops doing that work or tries to take a break. This is a travesty and it’s time that we start paying attention to and rewarding the Moms among us for all of the hard work they do. Remember: there is no rule that says you can only show appreciation for a Mom on Mother’s Day!  Here are some suggestions to get you started.

Fancy Things Up

One of the best ways to show your favorite Mom that you care is by treating her to something luxurious. For many people, this means sending flowers. Flowers are a fantastic gift because they aren’t meant to pull double duty (yes, we’re looking at you, the people who “give” Mom the “gift” of a new dishwasher). Instead, flowers are simply meant to be enjoyed. If you do decide to send flowers, you’ll want to take some extra care in choosing them. Don’t just go with whatever is on sale at the grocery store (especially if your favorite Mom is already well versed in the offerings of the local grocery store, seriously). Instead, opt to send roses that have been bred in special/different colors and an exquisite arrangement that caters to her specific taste and style. Go over the top, mom does.

Chores

There was a recent article that took a look at the different reasons men and kids tend to not pitch in and help out with the chores around the house. The article said that, basically, they expect to be thanked every time they do a chore–in spite of the fact that they rarely think to thank the women in their lives who do those same chores often multiple times per day.

Men: Don’t be that guy. Kids: don’t be those kids.

Start pitching in at home. Instead of waiting to be asked, look around for ways that you can help keep the house running smoothly. Do a load of laundry. Mow the lawn. Start cooking meals. Send your favorite Mom to the couch to relax while you take over for at least a while.

Vacation

Advertising insists that a “spa day” or weekend is the ultimate gift that someone can give to a woman. For the Mom in your life, this might be true. But don’t assume! You know what your favorite Mom loves most and what activities she enjoys when she has time to indulge in them. Give her a solid weekend of her favorite hobbies, a favorite location, a favorite activity. It might mean tickets to her favorite team’s next away game. It might be a trip to the city without the kids. It might be a weekend at the beach with nothing to do but read or binge watch her favorite horror movies.

It’s Your Treat

When we think about showing appreciation for Moms, we tend to focus on tips that spouses and kids can offer. It is important, however, to remember that Moms have friends, too. And those of you who are friends with a Mom? You should remember to show your appreciation for her as well. Take her out to lunch or dinner. Sponsor her next date night. Take the kids for an afternoon or overnight so she can have the house to herself for a while. Remember her kids’ details: their favorites, their birthdays, etc. Make sure her kids feel welcome in your home even if you have no kids of your own.

Like we said earlier: there is no rule that says you have to limit your appreciation of Moms to Mother’s Day. Use these tips to treat the Moms in your life right all year round!

We are all looking for ways to be a better parent. Generally, this involves thinking about how we treat our children and what we can do for them. However, one of the most important aspects of being a great parent is how you treat yourself. By ensuring you are healthy and happy, you can be there for your children and set a great example.

An essential part of being healthy and happy is getting enough sleep. The science isn’t controversial or in doubt. More and better sleep provides you with the tools you need to be the patient, creative, loving parent you aspire to be. Sleep deficiency can be a recipe for displaying “momster” tendencies.   

The Importance of Sleep

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, sleep is vital to good health and well-being.  Your mood during your waking hours depends, in part, on your sleep time.  Good sleep helps your brain prepare for the next day, forming new pathways that allow you to recall important information and learn new things.  Sleep also affects your ability to make decisions, your creativity, and your ability to pay attention.  

When you don’t get enough sleep, you become “sleep deficient.”  The NHLBI reports that sleep deficient people have trouble making decisions, difficulty problem solving, controlling emotions and behavior, and coping with changing circumstances.  NHLBI also reports that sleep deficiency is linked to depression, risk-taking behavior, and suicide.  

Tips for Getting a Good Night’s Sleep

This can be difficult to do – in particular during the early months of parenting – but it’s vital to establish a bedtime routine. This will lead to better and longer sleep for both you and your kids. If your children are in bed at the same time every night and sleeping through, then you are much more likely to do so too.

You should also try and head to bed soon after your children. It can be tempting to use that time to enjoy yourself, but ultimately, you’ll get much more out of sleeping. And when the weekend rolls around, you’ll have more energy to actually get that babysitter and go on that date.

Furthermore, it’s important to practice all of the evening routines that you probably enforce on your children. This includes no sugary or caffeinated drinks, and no TV or screens. Instead, pick up a book and have a cup of herbal tea to help you wind down.

If you are still finding it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep, you can try different relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing.

However, some people’s sleep suffers due to being unable to breathe through their nose. If this is the case, it’s difficult to do much about it, as simple lifestyle changes won’t make any difference.

Luckily, there are some options. Rhinoplasty can improve your breathing and result in better sleep patterns – it’s not all about looks! But understandably, people want to know what a nose job might look like before undergoing the procedure. Some surgeons, such as San Diego rhinoplasty professionals, offer state of the art computer imaging so clients can see the results before undergoing surgery.  

So, before you start thinking about what you can do for your children, realize that one of the most important things you can do for them is to look after yourself. It’s easy to brush off sleep deprivation as a minor issue, but science shows that the negative effects on your mind and body are real, and not to be taken lightly.

There are many reasons why studying to become a nurse is a popular option amongst moms. Not only does it take somebody who is naturally caring and empathetic to be a great nurse, the career option is often an ideal one for busy parents who are looking for flexible hours over the week with the option to work unconventional hours such as evenings, weekends, or nights. However, studying to become a nurse whilst you are bringing up little ones is certainly no easy task and the next few years will be spent trying to divide your time wisely between these two very important priorities. Of course, your kids will always come first, so we’ve put together some top tips to help you achieve your nursing degree as a mom.

Tip #1. Consider Studying Online:

Once you have decided that nursing is the right career choice for you, the most important consideration that you’ll need to take is where you’re going to study for your RN to MSN degree. For moms, there will definitely be many worthwhile factors worth thinking about when it comes to the option of online study. If you are looking for as much flexibility as possible and the option to choose your own study hours so that you can work them around your family life, then an online nursing degree program may be the perfect fit for your needs.

Tip #2. Get Support:

Studying to become a nurse is no easy task; not only do you have all the nursing theory to learn and assignments to complete, but in most cases, graduate nurses are required to have undertaken a certain number of hours of on-the-job experience before they can start to work in a professional setting. Since your RN to MSN online nursing degree is likely going to be some combination of both studying and working, it’s vital that you have a good supportive social circle around you – simply having friends or relatives who you’re able to ask to babysit every once in a while can make it so much easier.

Tip #3. Get Organized:

There’s nothing worse than juggling study and parenthood at the same time if you’re not sure what’s up next in terms of your education. Good preparation and getting organized as early on as possible in your program is key to staying on top of your studies and making sure that everything works and fits together when it comes to your two schedules. Laying out a daily study schedule where you work out where you have free time that you could use to study will help you stay in control.

Tip #4. Network:

Finally, one of the best tips for moms who are studying to become a nurse is to get out and network as much as possible, both in real life and virtually. Networking with other nursing students, professional nurses, and even other health professionals can really help you to better understand your work, get tips for juggling it with family life, and even make it easier for you to find your career path in the future.

Did you find these tips helpful? We’d love to hear from you in the comments.

Life after kids isn’t always straightforward. You do need to make sure you take your responsibilities and commitments seriously as a parent, but at the same time, you shouldn’t let your own life fall by the wayside. You still have to enjoy yourself, have fun and make the most out of your life because at a certain age we guarantee you that’s what your kids are going to start doing. They’ll be dependent on you when they’re young one hundred percent, but eventually, they’ll get older, and it will be time for them to leave the nest. At this point, all that will be left for you is whatever you built up in your spare time while raising your children.

If you’re lucky, that means you’ll have thriving hobbies and passions that you love and, a healthy relationship with your partner. It’s that part that we want to focus on today because if you’re not careful too much focus on your kids can leave your relationship in tatters. You have to work to keep the spark in a relationship and ensure that it is still healthy long after your kids leave home. But how do you do this?

Keep An Open Dialogue

The first step is to make sure you that you are keeping an open dialogue with your partner. Make sure that if anything is bothering you, you do let them know and encourage them to do the same. So, you might feel as though your partner is spending too much time at the office. Or, perhaps, they’re spending too much time working on something like their car at the weekend. Don’t suffer in silence here because chances are that your true feelings will come out in passive aggressive actions from sudden spouts of silent treatment to fewer moments of affection. This is always going to strengthen the gap between you rather than bring you closer together.

Communication is key. Remember, you might want to avoid an argument, particularly if your partner has already stressed how much they hate arguing with you. But here’s the secret. Arguing is good. Obviously, try to avoid full-blown shouting matches, but heated conversations are important. They show that you are both still passionate about the relationship and making it work. When arguments cease completely, there’s a good chance that no one can be bothered fighting anymore.

Do Date Night Right

Date night is something that you should make time for each and every week in your relationship even after kids. We know what you’re thinking here. I just don’t have time to head out each week! Well, then you have a problem because you won’t be getting the much needed moments of romance that your relationship needs. In the past, we have seen that there are some great restaurants for a romantic evening out so don’t avoid this possibility. Call up a babysitter, dress up and head out for the evening with your partner. This is just what you need to keep your marriage fresh.

Of course, it’s not just about going out for an evening together. That’s a great start, but it’s not the full story. You need to make sure you’re talking to one another on the date. You’ll find there are plenty questions to ask a guy to get him talking, even if you have known him for years. Ask about sports, mention the latest movies hitting the cinemas in a few weeks. Try to avoid topics that are going to kill the mood like finances or issues at work. You should try and create the type of situation that you might be in if it was your first date. This will allow you to create an atmosphere filled with romance, passion, mystery and excitement. Some couples even roleplay and pretend they are meeting one another for this first time. We’re not sure you want to go this far, but it might be worth a shot.

Little Things Mean A Lot

It’s not just about the romantic gestures. Yes, you can buy your lover a gift or treat them to something rather special for their birthday. You might even do something completely random out of the blue, surprising them with tickets away for a romantic weekend. These are all wonderful ideas, but the true heart of keeping a marriage alive and well will be in the small gestures. Something as simple as not relying on your partner to complete the worst chores around the home. These jobs need to be shared. You might think, well I can cook and he can’t. Here’s a thought, get him to learn. If he truly is committed to your relationship, he will put in this type of effort and vice versa.

Little gestures matter, they really do. Everything from texting a sweet message on a day when you know your love is going through a rough time to being there for them when they get home is what we’re looking for here.

Let’s Talk About Intimacy 

We were always going to get here eventually. A relationship can’t thrive without intimacy, even after you have kids. You should still be intimate regularly, and yes, it can get a little dull ten, twenty, thirty years down the line but there are always options for spicing things up a little. I won’t get into the details here, but a little research will show you what I’m talking about. Again, it’s about adding a little more romance and excitement to the typical recipe of being home alone without the kids.

Add a dash of spontaneity and a dollop of passion and see where the night takes you.

I hope you can use this advice to keep the spark alive in your relationship after you have kids. When you first become a parent, it can seem like your kids are your whole world. They need protecting, constant care and attention but it’s not always going to be that way. You shouldn’t neglect other parts of your life when you have kids, and that includes the relationship you have with your partner.

Being a new mom can be stressful, and it may feel like you have no time to get done all the things you want to. Make no mistake, being a new mom is a great joy, and there is no experience quite like it, but you do have to realize that your time to do chores and run errands will be far more limited than it was without a child in your life. We are going to show you a few ways that you can manage your time so that you can accomplish more without feeling stressed out all the time.

Plan Work for when the Baby Is Sleeping

New babies sleep a lot, and if you try to get your work done while the child is asleep, you will be far more productive. You have to realize that it is going be difficult to get much done while a new child is awake. They will need to be fed, changed and given attention, and you are going want to cherish that time with your child anyway.

New children sleep for hours every day, so you should have lots of breaks and chances to get some things done around the house. Just try not to stress out about when the next nap will come or how much you will get done before the child wakes up. Realize that there is another nap coming around the corner, and you’ll be able to get back to work shortly.

Set Realistic Expectations

You probably won’t be able to get as much work done as you used to before the baby was born. That’s a simple fact that you will have to live with. The only way you would be able to accomplish just as much or more than before the baby came along is if you are more productive and efficient with your time. That may mean cutting down on screen time or just finding more efficient ways to work.

However, you need to realize that it would be difficult to accomplish as much as you used to before, so you may need to spread out your work more and save some of your midweek work for the weekend. Sure, there are things you feel like you have to get done around the house, and you can just focus on the essentials and not worry so much about the little things.

Get Some Help

You should not be embarrassed to ask for some help every now and then. Every new mommy needs a break from time to time, so be sure to delegate some of the work to the father or call for reinforcements every so often.

Your family will probably be happy to watch the baby a couple times a month, so you can get some time with your spouse. Family may also be willing to pick up some of the slack you have left and help out with errands and chores from time to time.

You may even want to consider hiring a cleaning service to keep the house in order and make it easier to keep things clean. Some companies give a discount if you hire them more frequently (source: https://diamondcleaningcalgary.ca/) so if you’re trying to save money then consider that option. Many will come monthly, bi-weekly or even weekly. They’re very thorough and use green products to keep the baby safe.

The introduction of information technology in education enables moms to study at home while taking care of their young families. Online learning offers the flexibility and convenience that mothers need to complete their studies. One of the online degrees that top universities offer is communications. Graduates in this field have multiple career opportunities to pursue with the current explosion of digital media. If you are a student in this field, here are some tips to help you succeed in your studies and career.

1. Be Active in Class

Whether you are pursuing a campus program or online masters in communication management, engage your professors during the lessons. Ask questions on any subject matter that you do not understand. Remember that you have limited time to learn. Utilize your lesson time fully. It will be easier for you to complete your assignments and prepare for tests if you understand all the concepts taught in class.

2. Create your Portfolio

Start building your portfolio as soon as you start submitting class projects for your online MCM degree. You may not have much experience to get a good job when you graduate. A portfolio of all your class projects will help potential employers assess your skills. Do not wait until your final semester to build the portfolio. Include any projects you may engage in beyond your class work.

3. Be Flexible and Open-Minded

The current explosion in digital media creates different career paths for communications graduate. Have an open mind and be willing to explore different career paths. If you have been out of school for a while, you may be tempted to go with the traditional communication career paths. You will miss out on the best job opportunities with such a mindset. Learn everything you can, especially using modern communication technologies.

4. Build your Network

You will have multiple opportunities to build a strong social network before completing your masters in communications degree. Do not ignore any career fairs and services that your institution offers. Start with your classmates and then expand to other professionals in the field. Your network can help you identify the best job opportunities after your graduation. In addition, your network will help you identify opportunities for growth such as internships or related courses.

5. Build your Online Presence

The internet offers more than an opportunity to complete your communications degree. You have an easy way to build your network and online presence on social media. Moms tend to shy away from social media and leave it to their kids. Social platforms offer an easy and cheap way to communicate your ideas and share stories. You also have an opportunity to connect with influencers and leaders in your field. Create your blog and share your posts on social media when pursuing your degree.

Conclusion

A positive and open mind is necessary for moms to succeed in the field of communication. Moms must be willing to get out of their comfort zone and embrace the current trends in telling stories. The internet and social media offer multiple opportunities for communications students to tell their stories even before they graduate. Moms and other students should utilize these platforms to build their networks and online presence while still pursuing their studies.

Image via thinkstockphotos.com

The first few months of your child’s life are exciting and highly charged times that are filled with challenges – some new, and some you never thought you’d have to deal with. Even everyday tasks can become more dangerous and time consuming requiring strategic navigation and planning in order to reduce your stress levels.

Everyday Task 1: A stroll around the block (or to the park, or the mailbox…)

What can happen: Where to begin? There’s the endless packing of supplies (nappies, food, more nappies, more food, change of clothes, phone, wallet, more nappies – you get the idea), the development of a strategy (‘avoid the barking dog on the next block’) and trying to juggle your baby, your bag and your timetable.

Strategy for simplification: Pick a device which will aid your transport and free up your arms. Prams are no longer a choice between over-the-top contraption, and immovable object. There are a range of prams and strollers to suit every parent – with double prams for twins or siblings.

Everyday Task 2: Grocery shopping.

What can happen: Forget in-and-out. There’s no such thing as in-and-out anymore. Instead, there’s the mystery of the misplaced toy; a crying fit; or, a much-longed-for item. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry. You’ll long for simpler times!

Strategy for simplification:If you’re lucky enough to be co-parenting, this is where delegation has a chance to shine. Take turns to do the shopping and watch the experience go from ‘dreaded’ to ‘in demand’. By treating grocery shopping as a time-out, each parent has the opportunity to contribute, and to enjoy some much needed recuperation.

For those parents flying solo, it can help to pre-plan as much as possible. Write a list and stick to it. Making one big trip to the supermarket weekly (rather than 7 small trips) might be all you need to keep your stress levels in check.

Everyday Task 3: Planes, trains and automobiles. Public transport for dummies.

What can happen: Chaos. Public transport is one of the least child-friendly everyday experiences. Between missed buses and misplaced tickets, getting to your destination in one piece can feel like a real achievement.

Strategy for simplification: Plan your route ahead of time and pare-back your carried baggage. If possible, a harness or sling where you can carry your baby may help you to keep your hands free for any ticket or validation you may need to perform.

Everyday Task 4: Facebook. Instagram. YouTube.

What can happen: You log in with the intention of making a quick update, or writing a little post to keep friends and family updated. Then it happens. You post a picture of your child, happily eating an ice-cream. So this is what’s meant by the phrase ‘judgement day’…

Strategy for simplification: The human capacity to provide criticism and complication is limitless. When you’re feeling vulnerable, delicate, or unable to partake in rigorous discussion, step back from social media posting. To keep in contact with friends and family, try old-fashioned emailing (remember the heady days of a well-written group email?) or a (hands-free) phone call. 

Everyday Task 5: A glass of wine with dinner.

What can happen: Judgement. Guilt. Self doubt.

Strategy for simplification: When it comes to raising children, everyone has an opinion. Find a source of medical information you trust (a doctor, the AMA, an accredited industry journal) and decide for yourself which best practice guideline you’re willing to follow regarding a glass of wine with your dinner.

Everyday Task 6: Cooking.   

What can happen: Everything in the kitchen is either tasty or dangerous – and is likely to seem irresistible to your baby, especially as they grow more mobile. 

Strategy for simplification: Keep sharp items stored safely, well out of reach. Install safety clasps on cupboard doors. Keep small foods out of reach as they can constitute a choking hazard.

Everyday Task 7: Pet care.

What can happen: It’s a good thing that cats have nine lives. They’re sure to use up a few in baby’s first year. From cat litter to dog bites, pets and small children need to have boundaries set early.

Strategy for simplification: Introduce your baby to the pet slowly. Ensure that your pet also has a quiet space away from the mayhem to minimise any freak outs. Keep cat litter away from areas your baby can access, and keep the litter clean. 

Although life undoubtedly becomes more complex when you’re a new parent, there are ways to simplify everyday tasks. By implementing a few of the small hacks on this page, you’ll get back some much-needed time and (hopefully) lessen your stress levels.

Counseling can be a wonderful career in which you can make a real difference to the lives of hundreds of people. It can also be flexible, interesting, and sometimes even lucrative. Of course, it takes a lot of preparation to become a counselor or therapist, given the high levels of responsibility that come with the role.

Most of the professional preparation you need can be attained by doing an online masters in counseling, something you can do from one of the many great universities like Regis College who provide online counseling degree programs. Knowledge and training are just part of what makes someone a good counselor, however, and it can often be personal experience and traits that set one therapist apart from another in terms of effectiveness.

Interestingly, a lot of the most important skills for trained counselors to exhibit in front of their patients are ones you may well have already learned if you are a mom! Here are three ways your kids have already taught you some useful skills for a career as a counselor:

Empathy Without Full Understanding

As a mom, you can comfort your child when they are afraid of things you know don’t exist, or calm them when they are throwing a tantrum about something you don’t really understand, like having the wrong color spoon to eat their cereal with. This is because you empathize with their emotions, even if you don’t really relate to what is causing them.

In counseling, sometimes you will have clients whose problems are universally relatable, such as bereavement, but you may also have to help people with issues you have no personal experience of, for instance, trauma or addiction. Being able to empathize despite not having had the personal experience as the patient will make you much more useful to them.

Professional Distance

Sometimes, people will come to you with stories that you will find incredibly sad. A patient may have lost their child to an illness or experienced horrible abuse. Naturally, sympathy is a good thing when this happens, but if you turn into a crying wreck because what has happened to the person you are supposed to be helping move makes you very sad, that’s not really going to help.

It’s the same with kids. Sometimes you have to appear strong for them, so as not to scare or upset them further, even when your own emotions are running high.

Patience

There is probably nothing that increases more when you have children as your patience, and this is a good thing for a counselor. Some people may take a while to open up or get to the point, and may feel quite uncomfortable talking to you at all at first. Only by being patient with them can you help them.

Of course, none of this means only parents can exhibit these qualities and make good counselors, but the things you have learned from being a mom can only help!

The role of a mother is a huge one. You’re not only responsible for yourself and your well-being, but that of your family. Taking care of the children, managing your relationship, and somehow holding it all together in the workplace is not always easy to balance. There are demands and factors throughout the day that can cause even “wonder woman” to need a break from time to time. Stress, to some extent, is a good thing, but when it gets to the point that you’re not yourself, it’s time to do something about it.

Know the Signs

It is important to be in tune with your emotional well-being. Knowing when you’re stressed and how it impacts you physically and mentally, will alert you to when it’s time to take it easy and reevaluate some things. Some of the physical and emotional signs of too much stress include:

• Easily agitated and short tempered
• Feeling a loss of control
• Difficulty relaxing
• Low self-esteem
• Isolation
• Low energy or fatigue
• Headaches
• Upset stomach
• Body aches and pains
• Chest pain
• Lack of sexual energy
• Lack of concentration
• Self-doubt

Identify Your Triggers and Find a Solution

Have you experienced one or a combination of the above-listed symptoms of stress? If so, you need to take it easy. Too much stress is never a good thing and can lead to chronic stress, self-medicating, and other complications. To prevent this from happening, when you feel you’re under too much stress, stop and identify the trigger, then come up with a solution to remedy that. Below are some common triggers and solutions:

Alone Time – Once you’re in a relationship and you have children, getting time to yourself is hard. Women often stress because they’re not making enough time for themselves. They begin to feel lost and as if their marriages and children take priority over their own needs.

Alone time might not be a week vacation on a beach in Fiji, but it’s still necessary to have. Find ways to treat yourself. Whether you decide to go and socialize with friends during a lunch break, or you opt to treat yourself to a facial or skin care treatment by paying for services like a membership with Spa810 coolsculpting NJ online, the idea is to take time to do things that make you smile. If you don’t have a sitter, talk to your significant other about pitching in so you can have a few hours to yourself throughout the week.

Demands of a Relationship – On top of being super mom to your kids, you’re also expected to be the best wife or girlfriend to your partner. The demands of a relationship over time can get complex. Feeling a loss of identity, like time has gotten away from you, and even trying to adopt a new normal now that you have children can be very stressful.

If the demands of a relationship have you stressed there are things you can do about it. If you feel like the spontaneity has gone out of your marriage, switch things up, go on a date night. If the relationship is really bad of course, talking with a therapist can help you both get on the same page.  

Time Demands – any mom can tell you that time is one of those things they wish they had more of. Trying to find enough time in the day to tend to the children, a relationship, a career, and yourself can leave you drained. The stress of trying to meet deadlines and be timely can quickly weigh on you.

If time isn’t on your side, you can’t add more of it, but you can find a way to make better use of the time you do have. Start by creating a schedule for everyone to stick to. Next, talk with your partner about your responsibilities and where you need help. Follow the schedule and make tweaks as you see fit.

Women often bear the weight of the world on their shoulders. Though built to withstand the demands of parenthood, marriage, and business, it can sometimes be a challenge to balance. If you’re dealing with an undue amount of stress, it is imperative to identify your triggers and come up with solutions that will ease the tension. Whether you just need to take a chill pill and squeeze a stress ball or you need to actively change things about your life and household it is imperative that you’re able to find peace of mind. Because at the end of the day, the family can’t survive if mom isn’t at her best. 

Parenting is tough and being a single parent is tougher especially if you are a mother. Even under regular circumstances where both the parents are living together, the parenting duties are mostly dominated taken care of by the mother. Imagine in case of a single mother where they are already dealing with the parenting pressures, there are additional issues to be taken care of which were otherwise father’s responsibilities. Single mothers struggle at so many levels everyday but unfortunately, the society tend to trivialize their problems so much so that they themselves do not consider it as a problem anymore. However, the problems need to be acknowledged and addressed for the sake of the mental wellbeing of a mother. Here are 7 toughest problems that most single moms struggle with.

• Financial Burden

When both parents are living together, the financial burden is shared between both the parents. This also makes each of the two parents more available for the child. With one parent gone, a mother has to take care of double financial strains along with the parental duties that she is already taking care of. In most cases mothers are working two jobs to make ends meet and end up giving less time to their children.

• Lack of Socialization

A single mom has so much on her plate that she barely gets time for her own self, let alone taking out time to socialize. As a result most single moms end up getting socially isolated and start to lose their confidence and esteem. Many times they even feel unwanted or unwelcomed when they are in a social setting and this result in problems such as anxiety and depression.

• Custody Issues

You are already trying to overcome an emotional breakup and the legal tussle regarding the custody of the children can only make matters worse. Court proceedings and legal battles especially when they involve relationships that matter to you can be mentally and emotionally taxing. The financial strain of these legal battles is another story altogether. A child can be very sensitive about these issues so it is important for mothers to keep their calm and support the child to deal with the baggage of seeing his parents breaking apart.

• Lifestyle Changes

When you are struggling with a financial crunch among other things, you need to cut down on your expenses. This might mean an overall lifestyle change. It can heart breaking for a mother to explain a child why she cannot get him a subway for lunch anymore.

• Companionship

Companionship is something a single mom might need the most. Unfortunately, many single mom blog do not even talk about dating or companionship as a problem faced by single moms. This is partly because of social stigmas attached to single moms dating other partners.  Most single mothers are reluctant to give romance another chance because they are scared of the society’s judgmental attitudes and are nervous about dating someone. They are confused about how their child or their ex-partner will react towards her new romantic partner. However, the need for companionship is natural and needs to be addressed.

Mom, mummy, or momma: she goes by many names. Whatever you call her, the title doesn’t hold as much professional clout as doctor or lawyer, nor does it pay as well. The role doesn’t come with any vacation time, sick days, or even paid lunch breaks, yet she’s expected to be at her post 24/7, 365. And maybe you’re all grown up now but that doesn’t mean she can retire anytime soon.

These are just some of the many reasons why being a mom is the toughest job in the world. Mom made a lot of sacrifices when you were growing up to make sure you had everything that you needed and more. Now it’s time to return the favor. In honor of moms all around the world — and those who play the role of a mother — here’s a guide to the hottest gadgets so you can celebrate her like the queen that she is.

A wireless photo printer

Your mom is your biggest fan. She’s always the first to like your Instagram selfie or new Facebook profile pic. But like so much online content, these pics get lost as new ones get posted. Help her preserve these memories of her favorite child by getting her a wireless photo printer.

The HP Envy 4520 is the equivalent of a digital darkroom that lets your mom send pics conveniently from Google Cloud, AirPrint, or HP’s ePrint app. With a few swipes of her fingers, she’ll be able to hold her favorite pics in her hands.

A customized phone decal

If your mom is a creative lady, then she probably takes every opportunity to personalize her looks. She curates her wardrobe with fashionable pieces, eye-catching accessories, and beautiful, yet sensible shoes. Her phone, tablet, or iPad should match.

Whether her style is eclectic, chic, or something entirely different, you’ll be able to find a fitting gadget skin when you shop from a skin provider like dbrand. The creators behind dbrand developed an ultra-precise process that allows them to create decals that fit devices down to the micro-millimeter. They also have an exclusive partnership with the folks from 3M. As a result, their selection of colors and designs is second to none. Their collection includes marble, bamboo, carbon fiber, and stone — just to name a few. And it’s varied enough that you’ll find the perfect look for mom.

An indoor garden

A bouquet of flowers is a classic Mother’s Day present. It’s sure to brighten her day, but eventually, flowers die. Skip the arrangement this year and invest in an indoor garden, so the seeds of your love keep growing all year long.

The Miracle-Gro AeroGarden is a compact yet powerful appliance that can digitize your mom’s green thumb. Its hydroponic water bed can support flowers, herbs, and veggies without the need for messy soil. It’s also streamlined the growing process with a digital control panel that tracks their progress and sends alerts whenever they’re in need of more water.

A handbag that charges

If mom’s a busy professional who uses her phone constantly, she’s probably complained about how her phone doesn’t hold a charge. Don’t just suggest she spends her days looking for an available outlet. Help her charge her phone on the go with a charging bag.

Fashion and technology collide in Kate Spade’s sleek line charging bags, Everpurse. Available in a variety of styles and colors, the Everpurse plays double duty. On the outside, it looks like any other purse. Thanks to the multi-purpose charger hidden within the lining of the bag, it’s anything but. The Everpurse charges her devices while she’s on the go, so she never has to worry about running out of juice half-way through her day.

Important belonging trackers

When chaos is a normal feature of your mom’s house, it’s easy to lose track of important household items. Keys, wallets, and other items disappear regularly, seemingly eaten by clutter.

If your mom complains about losing her important belongings, a Tile item tracker will surely win Mother’s Day. They’re small, GPS-enabled devices that — true to their name — are shaped like a tile. They’re small enough that they’re easy to slip into a wallet fold or attach to a keyring. Once she pairs these devices to the Tile app, she can use her smartphone to track these items whenever they go missing.

The bottom line: be creative and generous

Over the years, mom has worked hard to make sure you were happy and healthy. Make sure she knows that you appreciate her love by spoiling her this Mother’s Day. This guide to the year’s hottest tech should put you on the right track. But if you’re still scratching your head, take a tip from this list. Each of these items solves a problem or reflects a hobby. Take the time to brainstorm and tap into what your mom likes, and you’ll find the perfect gift for the occasion.

Having kids is one of the most rewarding things you can go through, but it can also be equally as challenging. Though you love your children to the moon and back, there will be times when you need a break from the noise to focus on your own wellbeing. This is why it’s always a great idea to make the most of those days when they come around so that you can return to your kids feeling refreshed and happy for them to be back in your arms. If you are struggling for ideas on how to spend this precious time, below are a few relaxing, pocket-friendly ideas that will help you feel like your energetic self in no time.

Go on a spa day

Spa days are the epitome of luxury. Massages, aromatherapy treatments, and facials are all popular ways for people to spend their time at a spa. Despite most spa days costing a lot, you can invoke the feeling of your own spa at home. Having a hot bath with plenty of bubbles and glowing candles is one of the best ways to do this, and you can always reserve special bath oils and moisturizers for days like this. If you are in dire need of a massage, then keep a small pot of money to fund these excursions.

Catch up on missed television programmes

With growing children, it is easy to miss your favorite programmes, especially when you are putting them to bed or even in bed yourself. Whenever you get a free hour, make sure you catch up on all the stuff you have missed by setting them to record in advance for the days you can’t watch them the first time around.

Play an online game

Sometimes, it is difficult to focus on a complicated television plot when you have expended all your energy. To help yourself earn a bit of extra cash on the side, and to give you an outlet for stress, head to a site like https://www.unibet.co.uk/casino, where you can play fun games that add some diversion to your day.

Speak to old friends

Having your time taken up by your children is likely to be perfect for you, but that can mean you have little time left to spend with friends and family. Whenever you get a free moment, it’s wise to call old friends to see how they are doing, which will also help you relieve some stress and turn to a friend for help. In the times where you have more than a moment, arrange to meet up so that you can catch up properly in person.

Have a nap

Being a mom can be tiring. You are up at the crack of dawn when one child wakes up, and you are awake until the early hours making sure another doesn’t have nightmares, and this means you rarely get any time to have a good night’s sleep. Although you might want to fill your free time with activities, a combination of work and childcare will leave you feeling tired and irritable. Do a favor for your mental and physical health by taking a nap whenever you can.

In order to be comfortable in your own skin, you need to learn how to accept and love who you are. This is a difficult matter that requires you to forget what people say or think and concentrate on your own person. This change has to come from the inside. For example, if you start eating healthier foods, you’ll feel a lot better and glow from within. Your skin and hair will shine, and your mood will improve overnight. The most freeing feeling in the world comes from self-acceptance.

To feel comfortable, it’s important to understand who you are. Once you accept this, you can get on with your life. Every single individual can start feeling better in their own skin by following this advice.

Accept Your Flaws

No one is perfect. No matter how much people try to enhance their appearance and work on their image, it is impossible to reach a level of perfection. All people have something that they are not proud of. Therefore, you need to embrace who you are and accept the fact that you’re “stuck” with yourself for the rest of your life. The truth is that most of the time people don’t even notice your flaws or they might end up loving them. Either way, why would you point them out when they are not even visible?

Make Each Day a Fresh Start

Stop focusing and analyzing the mistakes you made in the past. Aim to start each day with a clean slate, include healthy habits in your life and find a way to purge your mind of bad thoughts. Start your day by eating a delicious breakfast. Put on your favorite clothes and try to smile even if the weather is miserable. Seize every second of the day and try to make people around you smile. There is a higher chance of feeling more confident in your own skin if you’re surrounded by happy people.

Change What You Don’t Like

As already mentioned before, each and every single individual has traits that they are not proud of. Sometimes these traits and feelings associated with them can bring people down and make them lack confidence. Nevertheless, most of these can easily be changed for the better. If you don’t like something about yourself, try to set some goals in mind and stick to them. Even though it might be tempting to set unrealistic goals, aim to remain grounded and work on little aspects. It is also important to remember not to let things get to you. Becoming easily stressed about certain situations won’t help with your overall goal to be more comfortable in your own skin. If types of stress are causing significant problems, such as digestive stress, you might want to consider trying digestive plant enzymes.

Learn to Accept Disappointment

Even the most successful people have to deal with disappointment and failure. After all, these are normal parts of our life. They define us and help us get to the next level of life. Once you learn how to deal with these sensible situations, you’ll start feeling better in your own skin. No one says that this change has to take place overnight, but even making small progress helps a lot. Besides that, stand tall each time you get criticized and don’t take everything personally.

In conclusion, people need to learn to accept who they are because they are the only responsible for their happiness and self-confidence.

Ever since media and internet has become more accessible and information has become more freely available, gymnasiums and fitness centers have been sprawling across every neighborhood. This is usually associated with greater awareness about health and fitness. Most people have started to join fitness centers and gyms because they strive to meet the beauty centers set by the media and the beauty industry. There are girls who want the perfectly toned body like that of Jennifer Aniston and men who have made Tom Cruise as their body goals.

While the media and beauty industry has helped in pushing young adults to take fitness seriously, it is mostly being done in all the wrong ways for all the wrong reasons. It is common for many people to follow meaningless crash diet programs and rigorous workout boot camps that in turn leave more disadvantages than benefits. Many people have started to perceive that fitness is all about beauty standards. It is a common myth that only people who need to look physically appealing are meant to join gymnasiums and fitness programs.

It is due to similar myths why mothers stay away from keeping themselves fit. They believe that fitness revolve around achieving a hot bikini body by following rigorous diet plans that are dominated by hours of starvation and time bound workout plans. These short term fitness goals not only do more harm than good to your body, but also drive moms away from even thinking about bringing fitness in their lives. Contrary to what most people believe, fitness is lifestyle that is meant to keep your body healthy and not some milestone that is meant to achieve a certain type of body.

Like anyone else mothers not only have complete right to stay fit, but it is in fact extremely important for them to remain fit from health point of view. A fit and healthy mom will be in a better position to take care of herself and her kids, which require a lot energy and stamina. Unfortunately, mommies have a hectic schedule and it is difficult for them to take out time for their own selves. Here are 3 ways in which moms can easily make sure that they remain fit and healthy without having to spend hours at a fitness center.

1. Plan Your Meals in Advance

Staying does not mean that you need to starve yourself. Starving will only take away your energy and you need to keep yourself on your toes. All you need to do is plan a balanced diet and clean eating. Prepare some fresh vegetables in advance for a salad and marinate chicken or meat and freeze it so that you can treat yourself with a steak instantaneously at your meal times. Take small meals at every 2 to 3 hours and use fresh fruits as snacks.

2. Personal Trainer

It is totally understandable that you cannot invest time in going to a gym as a mother. However, you can easily solve your workout dilemma. Hire a Personal Trainer and he will come whenever, wherever you want. Workout at your home, office or a nearby park. Your personal trainer can customize a workout plan for you that targets the problem areas of your body and meets your specific fitness goals.

3. Move Around Smartly

If your body is on the move constantly, you do not need to worry much about rigorous workouts. Avoid sitting or lying down unnecessarily. Keep your posture straight while sitting and standing. Take staircase where ever you can and avoid elevators.

It’s hard work being a mom, and it can seem like there is very little time left after you’ve taken care of everyone else’s needs. If like most Moms, you put others before yourself, you can end up neglecting your own wellbeing, and that’s not good for you or your family. To be fit and healthy enough to cope with a busy life and the demands of children, you need to look after yourself as well, and indulging in a pamper session now and then is a great way to de-stress and have some time to yourself.

Making the time

This can be the hardest part of planning a pamper session. If you do get half an hour to spare, often you will find some chore that needs doing, or you will suddenly remember that you haven’t called a loved one for a long time. If you’re finding it hard to allocate any time for yourself, what you need to do is make an appointment. Mark a set time on your wall planner or in your diary, blocking out an hour twice a week to devote to relaxation and pleasurable activities. If someone wants you to do something when you check your calendar you can say you are booked at that time. Don’t feel guilty about putting yourself first, you owe it to yourself to take care of your health and wellbeing, and if you don’t, you won’t be able to care for anyone else in the longer term.

How to pamper yourself

Having a pamper is different from making time for hobbies or sports or going out with friends. All those activities are important too, for exercise, fulfillment and stress relief, but pamper time is all about relaxing at home and enjoying peace and quiet.

A lovely warm bubble bath is a great way to start, as the water will soothe your muscles and make you feel lighter. Use some essential oils in the hot water, which not only smell wonderful but could help you to relax properly too. In the movies, people seem to find time to light hundreds of candles to add to the atmosphere, but you don’t need to do that; have them if you want them, but being in the bath is your main goal.

While you’re taking over the bathroom, you can do a few home beauty treatments as well, like applying a facemask, defoliating or giving yourself a pedicure. If you know about hair growth stages you’ll be aware that the ends of your hair can be up to six years old, so give it a deep conditioning treatment to nourish the tips. Allow as much time as you can to relax in the bath, releasing tension from your muscles and allowing the water to take the strain. Rest your head on a bath pillow and play some soothing music if it calms you. If you find it hard to switch your brain off, you could read a book, but choose something light and entertaining that doesn’t take too much effort to understand.

If you can’t get the house to yourself for your pamper, tell everyone the bathroom is off limits for an hour, lock the door and make the most of your calming oasis. You’ll feel rejuvenated, and you’ll be far better able to cope with the stresses of life.

Gifting flowers on Mother’s Day are standard practice now across the globe and now making it much easier, there are options for ordering flower bouquets online too. Online gifting of flowers is not only cheaper but also ensures quicker delivery at the doorsteps of the receiver. Gifting flowers is a practice existing over centuries, and this simple act of gifting flowers may change lives.

In the busiest living style of current times, arranging and sending flowers all by your own is tedious, which is the reason why online flower delivery is in vogue. You can instantly do it in a couple of clicks online or over a short phone call.

Choosing the right bouquet

For those who aren’t used to sending flowers frequency, it may be difficult initially to choose the right bouquet. But, when it comes to online sending of flowers, rest assured that you don’t have to know the things about flower arrangements but can simply choose from the various listings they have by seeing the pictures and instantly place the order.

Various combinations

To add an innovative twist to a traditional floral arrangement, for Mother’s Day, you can also ask the florist for something special as flower and plant combination, etc. by checking the special seasonal catalogs for occasions. There are online services even offering international flower delivery, and next, we will discuss some specific aspects you should look for while choosing online flower delivery services.

• Fulfillment of order – You need to check that the florist will ensure usage of only freshest and the most beautiful seasonal flowers to arrange the bouquet. Ensure that your order is beautifully presented and also delivered exactly on time in pristine condition.
• Personal assistance – Many of them place an order online may be a novice in terms gifting flowers, so reputed florists online offers live assistance and guidance also, which you can avail to clarify your doubts and come up with the best options.
• Choice of flowers – Ensure that the provider offers only fresh-cut flowers of premium quality. Say, for example, the ideal choices in roses are which cut at 60-70 cm with lush appearance and fresh fragrance, etc.
• Exclusive arrangement – The expert florists online may have been presented hundreds of tradition and new floral arrangements on their product pages, which you can choose from. There may be special sections for seasonal arrangements also as for Mother’s Day, Valentines, and Thanksgiving, etc.
• Privacy and security – You have to consider the reputation of the service provider regarding protecting your personal information shared with them online. It is also essential to check for certifications which ensure payment protection as to secure your credit card details transmitted. Ensure a minimum 256-bit encrypted connection for security.

Sending flowers on the Mother’s Day is a great way to show your gratitude and appreciation to brighten their day with memories of the sweet time when you were a kid. Good floral arrangements will replace thousands of words every said and will let the receiver know you care a lot and appreciate them.

Having twins is one of the most beautiful moments in a parent’s life. After all, two bundles of joy is a blessing that will have your whole family enjoy! But one of the things new parents will have to get through would be once they get home. Sleeping schedules end up wrecked and your eye bags may become even deeper after hearing not one, but two cries at night! Fortunately, there are ways on how you can get more sleep despite that.

So read on as I show you ten tips to get more sleep when you have twins!

Create a Sleep Routine

It can be quite tricky establishing a routine but it’s best to develop one as early as you can. Create a schedule for sleeping, eating, and playing, which your twins will get accustomed to. Their body clock will then know it’s time to sleep, with you being able to get some shuteye when they do!

Wait Until They’re Tired

If you always have to deal with energetic and excited twins who always stay awake, then it’s time to start helping them learn to calm down for bedtime! Instead of rocking your twins to sleep, place them in the crib once they feel drowsy and let them feel sleepy. Once they’re exhausted and sleep, you can follow as well!

Have a Restful Environment

When you were carrying your twins, they had no idea what the difference between day and night is, so it’s up to you to teach them when is the right time to play and when to sleep. Create a good environment where the crib is dark and calm, free from any background noise.

Find Help

You shouldn’t always be sleep deprived and do your tasks alone! Never hesitate or feel bad for asking for help. Make sure that you and your partner are a tag team, working together and in different shifts so one of you can rest while the other works. If you can’t afford a nanny, then you can ask help from your family or trusted friends!

Using Baby Monitors

Using a baby monitor will help you be able to get some shuteye without having to jump up to every small noise you hear. It’s best that you give some time, listening to the baby monitor so you can understand your babies’ cries and know when you need to go to feed or lull them back to sleep.

Prepare and Plan

This is one of the best things you can do to ensure that you maximize your sleep time of both you and the twins. Plan ahead and ensure that you prepare everything beforehand for easy feeding and washing, such as keeping diapers and essentials ready, preparing the formula in advance, and again, creating schedules.

Co-Bedding

While your twins are still young, you may want to consider sharing beds together so you won’t have to jump up to the other room when you hear cries. You’ll also be able to sleep together! Just make sure that the bed is big enough and that you have the right sleeping positions.

Stay Patient

Yes, you will need to be patient, as some twins may cry all night or at odd times. It will take time until they’ll be able to sleep all night without any disturbance. Just remember that this will pass and you’ll enjoy good sleep soon!

Swaddling

You can consider swaddling, which helps your babies sleep better and comforted all through the night. This is best for the first two months of birth and reduces the chances of your babies crying in the middle of the night.

Taking Catnaps

Don’t bother trying to do other work while the twins are napping. Instead, taking catnaps together will help you become more rested! Allow someone else to do other household chores for the first few weeks, focusing on caring for the twins.

Wrapping It Up

And there you have it! Having twins is a blessing but it can get quite challenging with your sleeping schedule! Fortunately, there are ways on how you can regulate your sleep without spending on nannies or frustrating yourself during your twins’ late nights!

I hope that this article on how to get more sleep with twins helped you find out what you can do to fix your sleep schedule and regain energy while caring for your babies! So don’t wait any longer and begin utilizing any of these tips today.

If you have any questions or would like to share your tips and experiences on how to care for your twins, then comment down below or check out these quote. I would love to hear what you have to think!

If you feel as though you could be getting more out of life, there are plenty of ways to get started right away. There is no point going through life if you aren’t getting as much enjoyment out of it as possible. These are just a few simple but effective ways to live a happier and fuller existence. The more ways you have of enjoying your life, the easier it will be to experience it as fully as possible.

Try Different Types of Food

Those who typically eat the same things on a regular basis should try switching things up to add some variety to their lives. Trying different foods can help you get the most out of life and discover new things that you love. There are so many different kinds of food out there that you’ll never run out of new dishes to try. Look for foods that are healthy, but that you think you’ll also enjoy eating.

Lighten Up

It is important that we don’t take ourselves too seriously. A lot of people have trouble laughing at themselves once in a while, and doing so is actually very important for a number of reasons. Another good way to lighten up is to read Funny Quotes About Life that could just give you a better perspective on everything. There is certainly nothing wrong with being serious when necessary, but you don’t want to be too uptight.

Have an Adventure

Everyone should get out and have an adventure once in a while. Whether it is taking a road trip or taking up an exciting new activity/hobby, it’s important to maintain a healthy sense of adventure. The more you allow yourself to do this, the easier it will be to enjoy life to the fullest. Don’t get so bogged down in your day-to-day life that you forget to have fun.

Reduce Stress

Anyone who wants to get the most out of life will need to know how to keep stress to a minimum. There are lots of different ways to reduce stress on a daily basis, including exercise, relaxation therapies, and even talking about your problems with a friend. However, exercise is one of the best strategies, as the endorphins the brain releases during physical exercise can help you keep your stress levels down.

Meet New People

The last thing you want to do is go through life without meeting as many new people as possible. Everyone has something different to offer and teach you about life, so you will need to keep this in mind. Many people are very hesitant to make new friends but doing so is an excellent way to get the most out of life. The fact is that you simply cannot have too many friends.

When you are looking to get as much out of life as possible, you will need to make a point of following these tips. While these things might seem pretty simple, they are effective nonetheless when it comes to becoming a happier and more satisfied person overall.