Refresh

Your Style ~ Yourself ~ Your Life

FabFitFun Fall 2019 Box: The Key Ingredients

FabFitFun Fall 2019 Box

A subscription box provides a self-care day-brightener every time one arrives.  The FabFitFun Fall 2019 box offered several choices for annual members, and a few items that automatically come in every box.  Want to see what came in my FabFitFun Fall 2019 box?  

FabFitFun Fall 2019:  For the Face 

The Better Skin Co. Lava Magik

This is billed a cleanser, scrub and mask – I have used it as a mask, and then scrubbed gently while rinsing it off.  I have generally sensitive skin, so I was a little tentative, but the granules of lava (?!?) are small enough that my face hasn’t been bothered.   

Value:  $32

Verdict:  Exfoliating without being too abrasive

FabFitFun Fall 2019 Box Better Skin Co Lava Magik

Trestique Mini Eye Essentials (Set of 4) 

First of all, I’m a sucker for minis – mini-cupcakes, mini-lip glosses, and even miniature tins of Maldon sea salt.  But with eye makeup, minis really make a lot of sense. Rarely do I finish a full-sized eye product within the time frame recommended by the manufacturer, so minis are a great solution.  This kit includes a mini-eyeliner, brow pencil and two eye shadow sticks.  

Value:  $48

Verdict:  Great for travel, and everyday

FabFitFun Fall 2019 Box Trestique Mini Eye Essentials

Mystery Item:  Murad Resurgence Renewing Eye Cream

I’m not generally a big eye cream kinda gal, but I’ve liked this one so far.  I’ve used it both morning and night and found it to be gentle and moisturizing without a bit of greasiness.  Not a replacement for a full night’s sleep, but it rounds out the edges after a special needs-induced “special” night.  

Value:  $42+

Verdict:  A nice cream, and for me, better than the alternative choices

FabFitFun Fall 2019 Box Murad Renewing Eye Cream

FabFitFun Fall 2019:  For the Body  

Harper + Ari Exfoliating Sugar Cubes in Juice Cleanse 

I knew from the second I saw these that I would love them – and I did!  While I’m cautious about facial exfoliation, I’m a little more relaxed about it on the rest of my skin.  And one of these deliciously-melon-scented cube lasted me a week of showers.  

Value:  $16

Verdict:  LOVE the scent, decent exfoliator

FabFitFun Fall 2019 Box Harper + Ari Juice Cleanse Exfoliating Sugar Cubes

Human + Kind Body Souffle 

Wonderfully rich lotion, um, souffle, with a great smell?  Yes, please. This is what I find myself reaching for right out of the shower, or as a hand lotion, or on my feet at night…

Value:  $18

Verdict:  Non-greasy lotion with an amazing scent – A+!

FabFitFun Fall 2019 Box Human + Kind Body Souffle

Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Roller Ball 

This small vial promises to promote a “deep relax” and to be “restful and tranquil,” so I’ve swiped a little on my pressure points just before bed.  The smell is nice, but it’s basically undetectable after a few minutes.  

Value:  $29

Verdict:  Nice scent, but seems to fade quickly

FabFitFun Fall 2019 Box Aromatherapy Associates Roller

And More:  

Aveda Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair 

This hair cream goes on without feeling heavy or greasy. I’ve been using it on damp hair, a bit like a leave-in conditioner. I’m luck to not have a lot of hair damage, so I can’t speak to the “repair” portion of the name.

Value:  $30

Verdict:  I don’t have excessively damaged hair, but works well as a lightweight leave-in conditioner

FabFitFun Fall 2019 Box Aveda Hair Repair

Twine Cheese Board with Plate

I love to entertain, so this was a no-brainer choice for me.  It’s a smaller size board, great for a single cheese or spread and accompaniment.   

Value:  $30

Verdict:  A nice addition to my kitchen

FabFitFun Fall 2019 Box Twine Cheese Board

Want to see what was in my Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box? Click here to check it out.

No matter what’s in the box, it’s great to have a few fun surprises show up in the mail every few months.  Want to try one? Click here to order yours and save $10 with code PUMPKINSPICE. 

Refresh Your Closet: 6 Simple Steps

refresh your closet

When was the last time you took a few moments to refresh your closet?

Like many people in the US – and around the world – you may have run around your house, asking yourself if an item sparked joy, and spent time making piles of outgoing items.  In the name of Marie Kondo, you may have practiced folding your t-shirts until they stood at attention in your drawer. And you hopefully ended up with a home that felt more spacious and less overwhelming.  

I “KonMari-ed” my house several years ago, long before you could gawk at other people doing this on Netflix.  Indeed, I did it in stages, taking much of the summer to do the physical pieces. The “emotional” pieces – the memorablia, photographs and trinkets took me until close to Christmas.  But still, I do feel that I “finished” this.

That being said, homes are dynamic. Special needs homes change at the speed of light. One minute your floor is (relatively!) spotless, the next it is coated in a layer of active dry yeast.  One moment you are sitting on the couch, the next minute you – and the couch – are covered in the contents of an entire jumbo-sized bottle of Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup, surreptitiously stolen from the refrigerator and “fountained” all of you, your couch, your carpet, and your – gleeful – child.  Or that time that bottle of school glue for your other child’s project was left unattended for just a moment, and resulted in an entire room being “spatter-painted” in white, sticky drizzles.  

That’s #autismmomlife  – you can’t control everything, but I am a firm believer that a calmer, more organized physical space can help reduce negative stress and make you more productive.

As a special needs mom, however, maintaining a house as neat as a pin is often an uphill battle.  So I put my first focus on my space – and do the rest of the house to a point of supporting health and safety, but not to a point that pushes me to a breaking point.  For example, my bathroom, which we keep locked using something like this.   If you are looking for tips on how to refresh your bathroom, check out some ideas here.

My closet in another area of the house where I am able to maintain (nearly!) one hundred percent control. Here are six simple steps to help you refresh your closet:

  1. EMPTY:   Take everything out.  If you have recently “Kon-Mari-ed” your house, and your closet is not overflowing, then you can do this by clothing type – dresses, skirts, tops, etc.  If your closet is out-of-control, then clear a few hours in your schedule and take it ALL out. I often do this in the evening, with something low-key on TV, usually when my husband is working late.  That way I can spread everything out all over the bed and the floor and the dresser without being in his way.  
  2. TRY IT ON:  If you haven’t worn it in the last year, try it on.  Really, if you haven’t worn it in the last few months, try it on, but focus on the items you have had the longest and worn the least.  You may be surprised – by a hidden treasure that you have been ignoring, or by something you can’t believe you have held onto for so long.  
  3. ATTITUDE:  Be realistic.  If you have five formal dresses and haven’t been to fitting event this decade, then it’s probably time to share a few.  Ditto suits if your job is business casual, and those excess sweaters if you live in a temperate climate and rarely travel to colder ones.  Get them out of your closet – for now.  
  4. STORE:  For me, this is a key step.  I take the items that I think I’m ready to part with and store them out of sight, but not out of the house  I have a box in my laundry area that I use for this. Then, when I get a card for a donation pick up (in my neighborhood, they seem to come every six weeks or so) I go through the box ONE more time before putting it out on the curb.  It is rare, but every once in awhile I do change my mind on one or two items in the box – but I am mindfull of actually wearing them if I return them to my closet.   
  5. REGROUP:  After I am certain of what I’m keeping, I place those items back in my closet more thoughtfully.  I group them according to type of item, and also, to some extent by length, placing longer dresses and skirts to the sides.  And, most importantly, EVERY single hanger I place back in my closet, I do so “backwards.” In other words, I hook the metal part of the hanger over the bar from back to front.  Each time I wear a garment, I return the hanger to the closet facing the typical direction. Which means, in six months, I can see EXACTLY what I’ve worn.  
  6. REPEAT:  Wait six months and repeat, focusing on the (non-seasonal) items that still have hangers facing the other direction.  Once you have done this a few times, the process becomes faster and easier, and you are able to thank more and more items for their service to you. 

How do you refresh your closet? Let me know in the comments!

Want more ideas? Come follow me on Pinterest here.

6 Best Bread-Making Tools

What are the Best Bread-Making Tools?

best bread-making tools

As an educator, I often have a summer project. This summer, it was homemade, sourdough bread. I learned a lot – particularly about the best bread making tools that make the process faster, easier and more enjoyable. As an #autismmom, I’ve spent a lot of time removing processed foods from our home, as well as many dairy-based items, especially for Mr. Diggy. This bread is a long, slow process, but in the end, there is only a small portion that is hands-on. It actually works well for our generally home-bound lifestyle.

Many others have written detailed posts about the making of Tartine’s Country Bread Recipe.  If you are looking for a tutorial, video or otherwise, this is not the place. I am a relative newbie to making this recipe (though I have had a decent amount of experience with other yeasted doughs over the year, like this great pizza dough).  What I’ve learned, however, that despite the bare bones of the ingredients – flour, water, and salt – the recipe is exponentially easier to execute with the use of a few key tools.  

The Baskets

What I tried before:  Though I had been gifted one basket before I started, the recipe makes two loaves.  I used my one basket for one loaf, and a well-floured towel in a bowl for the other.  After the 3-4 hour resting time (or up to 12 hours in the refrigerator), the one in the basket came out.  The one in the bowl landed in the (searing hot) pan with the entire top “crust” still attached to the towel.  

Why this is better:  The dough still needed a little nudge, but it came out with comparatively little effort.  I now have one round and one oblong basket, which leads me to the next two items.  

Combo cooker

What I tried before:  I have made other bread recipes in my Dutch oven and had difficulty “aiming” the dough into the hot, high-sided pot.  So I attempted to make my own combo cooker using my existing cast iron skillet as the base and the bottom of my Dutch oven as the top of the cooker.  Unfortunately, because the two were not a matched set, they didn’t seal well and thus the bread did not steam correctly.

Why this is better:  The combo cooker means you are aiming the dough into about 2 inches of searing hot metal, rather than 5 or 6 inches – a much-preferred experience.  And the lid seals snugly, allowing for the bread to steam in the initial baking.  

Covered baker

What I tried before:  After failing with the homemade combo cooker, I cooked the second loaf in the Dutch oven, carefully flopping the dough into the higher-sided vessel.  By this time, the dough had rested beyond the ideal 3-4 hours, so it was a bit over-proofed. Yet I couldn’t fit two Dutch ovens into my wall oven at the same time.  

Why this is better:  The oblong covered baker fits in the oven at the same time as the combo cooker, meaning the two loaves can be cooked simultaneously.  This means no over-proofing, and also means your total baking time is cut in half.  

Bread Lame

What I tried before:  I initially attempted to slit through the dough with my smallest – and I thought sharpest – kitchen knife.  That paring knife, however, was no match for the dough and barely make a mark. So I basically ended up stabbing the surface of the bread to make air holes (of course I only needed to slit one loaf, as the other one had plenty of, um, ventilation, due to the upper layer being affixed to the towel in the bowl).  

Why this is better:  The lame made clean, easy slits that allowed for ventilation.  A small tool that makes a big difference.  

Oven gloves

What I tried before:  I have these Orka oven gloves, which work well for almost everything – and have a bonus of being both waterproof and washable.  But being mitts and not gloves, I lacked the dexterity to navigate the loaf into the pan cleanly. I could also (mildly) feel the heat of the cast iron through them after a few seconds.  

Why this is better:  The articulated fingers on the oven gloves help a lot, as does the higher heat threshold.  Much easier manipulation of the super-hot pots.  

A Scale

The other must-have tool is a kitchen scale. You will get more accurate results and you should prevent yourself from ending up with an overly heavy, dense dough. (I actually didn’t even consider making this recipe without the scale, so I can’t tell you exactly what would happen without it!)

Bonus Item: Parchment Paper

So this isn’t really a tool, per se, but it does make it SO much easier to transfer the bread from the basket to the searing hot pans. After the dough has rested in the baskets, remove the towel and place a sheet of parchment paper over what will be the bottom of each loaf. Using a pizza peel or cookie sheet, carefully flip the dough and the parchment paper over so the crust side is up, and gently remove the basket. Use the lame to vent the bread. Remove the cover from the combo cooker or covered baker and slide the entire piece of parchment paper AND dough into the cooking vessel and then place the lid on top.

Have you tried making Tartine’s country bread recipe? Do you agree that these are the best bread-making tools? Comment below with your results!

For more recipe ideas, follow me on Pinterest.  

How to Celebrate Halloween without Candy: 4 Fun Ideas

Can you celebrate Halloween without candy?

Halloween without Candy

For many people, Halloween and candy are inseparable.  But maybe you have food allergies or intolerances in your family?  Maybe you are practicing healthier eating and want to share this with your friends and neighbor?   Or maybe you just want a break from the sugar rush?  If that’s the case then here are some great ways to celebrate Halloween without candy.

Go big on the decorations

spooky welcome sign

Like this spooky welcome sign, carved pumpkins, and flickering lights and candles. More ideas here.  

Go fun with the food

crispy rice treat decorated like mummy

Like these mummy crispy rice treats. Or try tortillas or pitas cut into bats and then toasted or baked – dip them in an orange (ish) dip like roasted red pepper hummus.  More ideas here.  

Go bold on the costumes

woman in bubble bath costume

Like the fun, easy take on “bubble bath.”  Or wear all yellow with a green fan of paper on your head for a simple pineapple. More ideas here.  

Go festive with the nail

Color Street Halloween 2019

The 2019 Color Street Halloween Collection includes two glow-in-the-dark designs, two duochrome ones, plus four other spooky options. This year’s entire collection is available right here.

Color Street Halloween 2019

Are you ready for some Halloween nails???  Shop here.

Want to try a sample first?  There’s a link to do that here.  

Back to School: 7 Nights of Easy Dinners

7 nights of easy dinners

You need 7 Nights of Easy Dinners

The first week back to school – as parent or educator – is always a little bit crazy.  One minute, your biggest decision is between the pool and the park you’re not wearing shoes and you have no idea what day it is.  Then, in the blink of an eye, bells are ringing, dress codes – and most definitely shoes – are in play, and much of the day is dictated for you.  

While stay-at-home and work-at-home parents usually cheer the return to school, educators usually grumble a bit as they, um, readjust.  Educator-parents experience this doubly. But no matter what the adults are doing, the witching hours between 3 or 4 and 7 or 8 pm are often universally a bit overwhelming.  Homework, sports, clubs, lessons, meetings, laundry – oh, and I think we’re supposed to have dinner? In a home such as ours, with two educator parents, the effects of the first week of school are magnified dramatically.  

So you need a plan to tackle dinner, so that re-entry is as smooth as possible. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Sunday: Gyro Night

It may seem time-consuming to make your own pita bread, but it’s mostly hands-off time, and leftovers make for great lunches.  I serve with the creamy hummus and sliced gyros from Trader Joe’s, as well as Ina Garten’s tzatziki.  

Monday: Breakfast-for-Dinner Night

Once the week starts, you can switch gears to the idea behind my dinners without thinking. Breakfast-for-dinner is a meal that can practically make itself – perfect for the Mondayest of Mondays.  Place sliced chicken apple sausage (or bacon or almost any other breakfast meat) in the basket tray of your air fryer.  Set to air fry at 375 degrees for about 5 minutes or until your desired level of crispiness is achieved. Fry/scramble/poach/boil some eggs and you can be done.  Bonus points if you rustle up some toast, bagels or potatoes (you can put those in the air fryer too!).  

Tuesday: Sandwich Night

Try a BLT. Fry some bacon in the air fryer, slice a late-summer tomato and add some lettuce.  For me, toasted bread and mayo are a must. Alternately, consider pulled pork or chicken sandwiches in the Instapot, piled on Hawaiian rolls.  Simply combine cubes of pork butt or boneless, skinless chicken thighs with this barbecue sauce in the Instapot and cook according to manufacturers’ instructions. 

Wednesday: Pasta Night

You can’t go wrong with bacon or pasta – so try them together.  Saute cubed pancetta until crisp. Meanwhile, boil water for pasta – you can use almost anything here, but I really like fresh pasta shells, when I can find them.  After the pasta is cooked and drained, toss in half a bag of frozen peas, a drizzle of olive oil, and some salt and freshly ground pepper. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pancetta from the pan and add to the pasta.  Feel free to add anything else you like, such as Parmesan cheese, bite-sized pieces of fresh mozzarella, torn basil leaves, pesto, cherry tomatoes…you get the idea.  

Thursday: Taco Night

Layer boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or pork butt)  in your instapot with a salsa of your choice. When I have the produce, I like to make this one or this one.  Cook, according to manufacturers’ instructions and serve with tortillas, chips or in a bowl. In my instapot mini, chicken thighs usually take about 15 minutes on high, while pork takes 30-40 minutes. 

Friday: Burger Night

Fridays call for flexible low key meals, but also maybe something that would benefit from a beer or other adult beverage on the side.  A burger is a great answer to the last “what’s for dinner” of the work/school week. Cook up whatever your family prefers – beef, turkey, veggie, salmon – and serve on a bun, in a bowl or in a lettuce wrap.  Lately, we’ve been opting for pretzel buns, which are a bit sturdier than traditional buns without being dry or tending to fall apart.

On the side, thinly slice some Yukon gold (or similar) potatoes and toss in olive oil and Omnivore Salt.  Place in the basket of the air fryer at 400 degrees for about 5-10 minutes per side, or until golden brown, crispy and cooked through (this can vary depending on the size and thickness of your potato slices).  

Saturday: Chicken (and Waffles?!?)

End the week with some air fryer chicken.  If your family prefers wings, they are a breeze in the air fryer.  I typically season with some Omnivore Salt and air fry for about 5 minutes per side at 400 degrees.  I toss in barbecue sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or, for the adults, a combo of half melted butter and half Frank’s hot sauce. 

If tenders are a better option for your family, then toss with salt and pepper, then dip sequentially in flour, eggs and panko bread crumbs. Spray liberally with olive oil on both sides before air frying until golden brown and cooked through, flipping once.  Really want to celebrate making it through the first week? Whip up a batch of these waffles for a chicken-and-waffles celebration.

Have your tried any of these 7 nights of easy dinners? Comment below if you have!

For more recipe ideas, follow me on Pinterest.  

Back to School Checklist – 5 Simple Ideas For Special Needs Moms

back to school checklist

What’s on your back to school checklist?

If you’ve walked into almost any store lately, you’ll have noticed that it’s back to school season – which, amazingly, starts shortly after the 4th of July in the US.  As a full-time educator, I always want to get a jump on things for my own kids – without reminding myself of how quickly my own summer is flying by.  

My neurotypical kid has a clear-cut list by grade level (which from grades K-6 we actually ordered through the school, freeing me entirely from the back to school aisle!). Mr. Diggy’s teachers, however, usually request a more practical, year-round set of supplies.  Instead of a three-subject notebook, a three-pack of paper towels. Instead of a value pack of pens or highlighters, a value pack of cleaning wipes or tissues. I’ve found it’s best to ask the teacher what he or she needs or wants for the classroom (and, as the perennial special ed room parent, I send that list out to the other families in case they want to participate as well).  

Here are five simple ways to prepare for back-to-school season with your special needs kid with your back to school checklist:

Get Organized

Have you tried using Google calendar to maintain your sanity?  I have found that having several layers of shared calendars helps me keep track of everything in our special needs family.  We have one for Mr. Diggy that is shared with the entire team, and then my husband and I each use one – inviting each other to relevant events as needed.  Because our childcare situation is complex, it helps me see when I have a meeting that conflicts with Back to School Night, or there is a game that conflicts with Occupational Therapy.  And then we can figure out a Plan B (or often C or D!) before that event is upon us.  

Make a Communication Plan

Is child non-verbal or verbally limited?  Maybe he or she just has difficulty summarizing “what we today” or “what we need to do for tomorrow.”  Then communication logs can be a helpful tool. There are many standard templates available. If you want to see one that I’ve created, click here.  

Download Classroom Communication Log

Revisit the IEP

Of course, most of the parent-teacher communication for a non-verbal child with special needs is about A) basic needs and B) progress toward IEP goals.  So back to school season is an important time to consider any adjustments that may be required with a new teacher/classroom/school year. For example, Mr. Diggy will move from a room with an attached bathroom, to a room with a separate bathroom – we are looking at how that will affect staffing needs, as well as prompting and communication around toileting.  

Master a gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free treat

All classrooms seem to have at least one kid with a dietary restriction, and special needs classrooms may have many kids with multiple food-related challenges.  All of this can make birthdays and other celebrations a little bit trickier. Over the years, I have returned again and again to this recipe for sunflower butter brownies.  It manages to be gluten-free, dairy-free AND nut-free – plus they really taste good.  Like the staff and other kids actually WANT to eat them good.  

Grab a welcome back gift for the teacher (and other staff!)

Speaking of the staff – I do like to bring them a treat as well.  I will usually bake some zucchini bread (because by August, we are literally drowning in zucchini!) – and if I’m feeling fancy, throw a handful of summer blueberries in the recipe (in lieu of nuts or raisins).  And of course, the extended staff (OT, SLP, ABA team, classroom aides, etc.) always appreciate a fresh back-to-school Color Street manicure. So many fun options, one-size-fits-all and a great pick-me-up for the new school year. 

Ever thought about being a special needs room parent? I shared reasons you should consider it on messybun.life here.

Want more ideas? Come follow me on Pinterest here.

Top 10 Things to Pack for your Direct Sales Conference

pack for your direct sales conference

If you are a consultant or representative for a direct sales company, then you might be wondering what to pack for your direct sales conference.  The conference or convention is a staple of direct sales companies, and usually involves a few days of workshops, training, events, and recognition.  Plus plenty of social opportunities for team bonding and networking with other reps. If you’ve never been to one before, then you may be a little unsure what to expect – or to pack.  Here is your packing list.  

What to pack for your direct sales conference or convention

1. Comfortable, cute layers

Direct sales conventions are often in the summer, and often in warm locations in the southern United States.  The events themselves are often in hotels or conference centers that blast the air conditioning. So layers are a must – I also like to keep a pair of leggings in my bag in case it’s really freezing.  

2. Something nice

There is usually at least one dinner or another event that calls for something dressier – depending on the expectations for the evening, it could require anything from a little black dress to a ball gown.  Your upline should be able to guide you on this one.  

3. Something themed

There may be a day or event that calls for a specific theme – glow in the dark, a team shirt or icon, or something else.  So be sure to grab something that fits the bill for that part of the conference.  

4. Treats for your team/roommates

If your downline team is coming with you, then a team gift is a nice gesture.  If you don’t have a downline (yet!) or your team isn’t traveling with you, then a snack bag, or pair of fun, comfy socks for your conference roommates is also a great idea.  

5. Cute, comfortable shoes

You will likely be walking a lot – from your hotel room to the sessions, from session to session, to events, to dinner – not to mention in the airport.  My favorite comfy, cute shoes are Rothy’s. If you haven’t tried them yet, you are missing out. Here is a link to save $20 on your first pair.   

6. A fresh mani

Of course, you want to put your best foot (and hand!) forward with a fresh manicure – do you have a personal brand or team color?  Your Color Street manicure can be the perfect way to share that with the other conference attendees.  

7. A Portable Charger

No matter where you are, there are simply never enough outlets to go around.  This is doubly true at direct sales conferences where you might be going live on your phone to share news and updates, snapping pictures constantly, and trying to manage and update your social media accounts, emails – and whatever else is happening at home- all while on the go.  A portable charger like this one is key to keeping your devices going all day.  

8. Extra room in your bags

If you’ve never been to a conference before, you may not think about this, but there are always freebies and giveaways.  So, depending on what product(s) you sell, think about packing an empty carry-on bag, or choose a slightly larger suitcase than you need and leave home with some spare room in it.  

9. Your Business Credit Card

Your expenses on this trip are all business expenses, so be sure to bring whatever card you use for those costs.  Having a separate card makes it simpler to keep track of deductions at tax time.  

10. Your business card, QR code or another way to network

You will meet people from all over the country, and, depending on your company, the world.  Not everyone may use the same social media platforms, so find an easy way to share your info – and gather other people’s – to stay in touch after the conference ends. 

So are you ready to pack for your direct sales conference? What are your must-haves? I’d love for you to share them in the comments below.

Want more ideas? Come follow me on Pinterest here.

Refresh: Self-Care Survival Guide

Refresh: Self-Care Survival Guide

You need a self-care survival guide.  It’s not just your imagination. Parenting special needs kids has been shown to be more stressful.  However, this stress is not experienced evenly.  It depends on the coping mechanisms implemented by the parents.  On an airplane, flight attendants advise you to put your oxygen mask on first, before assisting others.  Parenting – especially special needs parenting – is no different. It is nearly impossible to keep giving of yourself without maintaining a model of self-care is a recipe for trouble, as Kim Albrecht describes so clearly in this episode of her Lomah Podcast.  

With a long list of medical, educational and other demands, self-care often falls to the bottom.  This self-care survival guide provides easy ways to fit self-care into your life. You wouldn’t skip brushing your teeth or applying deodorant, so don’t skip these either:  

Self-Care Survival Guide 

Daily:

Exercise: Just try to be as active as possible.  If your kid’s schedule means can’t leave your house, use home exercise equipment.  Or walk to the drug store to get the prescription. Or try some of the 7-Minute workout apps or YouTube yoga.

Drink Water: This is a real chore for me.  I am not a naturally thirsty person, so I really have to remind myself to drink water.  Bubbles help. So does a little flavor, like LaCroix. In colder weather, I often switch to hot water with lemon and a touch of honey.   

Eat Real Food: I know, I know – your instinct is to say “I don’t have time to cook” or “I don’t have time to shop,” but this is SO important.  You are not only providing positive fuel for your own body you are also modeling this life-long habit for your children. (One “compliment” Mr. Diggy often receives is on the content of his lunches – “so healthy,” “fruits AND vegetables!”)  Some of our kids may be non-verbal, but they are still forming habits. Here are some ideas of things I keep in my freezer that help to make this easier.

Weekly:

A Fresh Mani: Well, if it’s a Color Street mani, you can definitely do this every other week.  But there are SO many fun options to choose from that you may just want to switch them once a week.  Plus, a fresh set of Color Street is a day-brightener every time you look at your hands (even if those hands are washing dishes, or washing a kid who is of an age to wash himself but is not able to or doing your 7th load of laundry…)

Wine or Dessert – or Whatever Else is a Treat for You: Maybe it’s a glass of wine with dinner, a cocktail at happy hour, a mimosa at brunch, or a brownie sundae.  Whatever is a treat for you – get one, make one, find one!  

Reading: Sure, you spend all day on and off your phone and computer – reading emails, texts, social media, insurance documents, IEP notes, doctor’s reports…but how about reading something that YOU choose.  I prefer paper books and non-fiction, but if you like romance novels on a Kindle, then go for it! (Also don’t discount the modeling that this represents as well – B typically reads 90 minutes per day – all material of his own choosing.)  

Monthly:

Pedicure: Have you tried the pedicure strips from Color Street?  They’re beautiful, they last several weeks, and they apply quickly.  Plus they are shaped just right for toes.  

Date Night: Or “date” day.  Or “date” lunch.  Or take out from your favorite restaurant that you enjoy after the kids are in bed/at a sleepover.  Rethink and redefine where you can find your time together. The diagnosis has changed your life- you need to change how you do things – not skip them altogether.  Of course, if the opportunity to get away together, even for one night, presents itself, seize the day and go!  

Mom’s Night Out – or In: You can have a theme, like this one, or just open a bottle of wine – or brew a pot of tea – and call it an event.  You can go out to a happy hour, or meet at a restaurant or coffee shop. The specifics don’t matter, just the time. A diagnosis can also change adult friendships, it is important to connect with – and make time to stay connected with – those who are still investing in your friendship.

Quarterly:

Treat Yourself to a Subscription Box: FabFitFun is perhaps the most popular.  Causebox has a focus on more sustainably made items.  Pick something that will make it feel like Christmas in July – or March – or whenever you need a lift.  

Get a Massage: If time and resources permit, then do this more often!  If you can splurge on the closest thing you can to a getaway without getting away, do it – some day spas can be very transportive.  But there are also a number of places that do head/shoulder/neck massages by the minute – prioritize that! 

Refresh your Closet: I have a method to this, that I will share in another post, but do what works for you.  Try stuff on. Pull stuff out you haven’t worn in a while – and wear it, or pass it on. And, if a “hole” emerges, then go for a little retail therapy and fill it! 

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Refresh: Self-Care Survival Guide

Causebox Summer 2019

Causebox Summer 2019

Causebox Summer 2019 was my first purchase from this newer subscription box service.  It is a little different than the more “mainstream” subscription boxes, in that there is a little less customization to be done (I chose colors, but not wholly different products, except for the cleanser).  Also, each product is specially selected to bring value to the subscriber, but also because it improves the world in some way. Tall order? Yup. Here’s what I found in my first box. Want to try a Causebox of your own?  Click here.  

Causebox Summer 2019 Altru Straw Tote

The Product:  This straw tote not only carries your beach essentials but also helps support beach and ocean conservation efforts.  

The Scoop:  A great size – holds a lot, but appears more like a purse.  I tend to travel light in the summer, but when I need a bag, I find myself grabbing this one.  

Value:  $50

Verdict:  A great summer bag. 

Causebox Summer 2019 Straw Tote

Causebox Summer 2019: Quagga Green Waterproof Bag

The Product:  Quagga Green repurposes plastic bottles to keep them out of the ocean, creating a useful, waterproof bag.  Additionally, they donate a portion of proceeds to help preserve wildlife: win-win-win!

The Scoop:  While this was billed as a “bikini bag,” at our house, it’s much more useful for a kid. Mr. Diggy is messy – like get wet and dirty on a daily basis kind of messy.  We have used this several times a week since it arrived.  

Value:  $25

Verdict:  It does what it says it does.  

Causebox Summer 2019 Waterproof Bag

Causebox Summer 2019 Banded2Gether Scrunchies

The Product:  Fun, soft scrunchies from a company that donates three meals for each product sold.  Banded2Gether makes scrunchies, headbands, and other hair accessories.  

The Scoop:  No matter who makes them, these slide right out of my short, straight hair – so I was happy to gift them to a scrunchie-loving friend.  Bonus – the company donates a portion of profits to children in need.  

Value:  $10

Verdict:  A great gift!

Causebox Summer 2019 Scrunchies

Causebox Summer 2019 All Good Sunscreen

The Product:  All Good sunscreen provides sun protection that is not greasy, fragrance-free, made with non-nano zinc, and is reef-safe.  

The Scoop:  Great coverage – love that it’s reef-friendly, organic and non-irritating.  Would buy again.  

Value:  $15.99

Verdict:  It’s almost gone!  Need to get some more.

Causebox Summer 2019 Sunscreen

Causebox Summer 2019 Hanalei Powdered Cleanser

The Product:  The Papaya Enzyme powdered cleanser activates when it contacts water.  Like all of Hanalei’s products, it is 100% cruelty-free, as well as free of other harmful ingredients like sulfates.  

The Scoop:  I like the concept, but I’m still using up another cleanser, so I haven’t used it a ton.

Value:  $35

Verdict:  Wait and see.

Causebox Summer 2019 Cleanser

Causebox Summer 2019 Reduce Everyday Shatterproof Tumbler

The Product:  This tumbler is not glass, so it’s safe for poolside and other active settings.  It is insulated, so it keeps drinks colder longer, and Reduce supports river cleanups with a local charity partner.  

The Scoop:  A great summer beverage glass.  Keeps things cold and safe for poolside use.   Every time you use, it’s one less plastic bottle you’ll grab for.  

Value:  $12.99

Verdict:  Practical and attractive.  

Causebox Summer 2019 Tumbler

Causebox Summer 2019 Tribe Alive Wrap

The Product:  The highest valued item in the box, this is from Tribe Alive and is handmade by artisans in India.  

The Scoop:  That being said, I seem to have struck out with the wraps and kimonos this summer.  This one was WAY too big for me, despite the claim of being “one size fits all.” It is a great fabric, however, so I filled in the neck hole with a remnant and make it into a blanket – much like a Turkish towel.  It can still be used as a sarong, etc. and I think it’s a great tweak!

Value:  $118

Verdict:  Updated with a little tweak, it’s great.  

Causebox Summer 2019 Wrap

Ready to get in on the next Causebox?  Click here. 

Want more ideas? Come follow me on Pinterest here.

Nail Care Tips for the Perfect 10

Nail Care Tips for the Perfect Ten

Nail care and nail health are important aspects of self-care.  These nail care tips will help you maintain your nails – and keep them looking gorgeous as well! Not only are your fingernails visible to nearly everyone you see on a daily basis, but they also protect the skin of your nail beds.  Are you taking the best possible care of your nails? If you know you could do better with nail care, here are some tips to consider:  

Nail Care Tips: Your Overall Health

  • Are you drinking enough water?  If you’re like many people, the answer is probably no.  Your body’s overall level of hydration can have an impact on your nails too
  • Vitamins and minerals: Biotin and other B vitamins top the list, but nails can also benefit from adequate iron, magnesium, and protein.
  • Sunscreen and moisturizers – depending on your lifestyle, your hands may need more sunscreen than you think!  And even if you are indoors from 8-5 most days, you may not be moisturizing your hands enough. Try this one from Sally Hansen.  

Nail Care Tips: For your Hands

Nail Care Tips: For your feet

  • Consider a foot mask to help you soften and smooth your feet.
  • Exfoliate dry skin in the shower or tub, using a brush or mesh sponge
  • Moisturize your feet regularly, wearing socks over the cream while sleeping if weather permits

Nail Care Tips: Nail Polish

  • Over time, you may experience damage to your nails with gel and acrylic products.  But it can be difficult to move away from those products without your nails feeling even more vulnerable.  
  • Using a nail polish product that does not involve heat or tools to apply or remove can help protect your nails while they recover. 
  • Color Street is a 100% nail polish product that has helped my nails grow and become stronger.

Nail Care Tips: Color Street

Here are my HOT tips for applying Color Street 100% Nail Polish Strips. You can also watch my application video here.

  • Heat: Be sure the strips are at warm room temperature before applying – too cold and they can be stiff, too hot and they may become sticky.
  • Order: Be sure to save your thumbs for last – they are your best tool for application.
  • Time: I recommend applying Color Street nail polish strips at night and then letting them cure overnight.

A Few More Nail Care Tips: 

  • Be sure your hands are clean AND dry – and avoid plunging hands in water for 30 minutes after application.
  • If you tend to have oily nails, you can try washing with a bit Dawn or other dishwashing liquid before applying.
  • -If you tend to have dry nails, be sure to use a moisturizer before (but not immediately before) application, and consider using a nail strengthener like Nailtiques.
  • Never peel off nail polish or nail polish strips – that can damage the nail. For more tips on nail polish removal, click here.

Are you ready to try some Color Street? Click here to shop.

Want more ideas? Come follow me on Pinterest here.

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