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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! 

Want to download your copy of the Self-Care Survival Guide?

DOWNLOAD NOW!
Refresh: Self-Care Survival Guide

Autism Mom Perspectives: Life Beyond the Diagnosis

Autism Mom Perspectives

An autism diagnosis changes not only the world of the person with autism but the world of those around them. Overnight, you become an autism mom. The news can, at first, be paralyzing. Then, often comes a period of intense research – reading everything you can get your hands on, waking up in the middle of the night to google things.

When you begin to put some interventions in place, you can regain some equilibrium and remind yourself that you – and your family – deserve to move forward. The views may be a bit different, but there is still a future to plan for – and even embrace.

What follows are some of the truths we encountered in our family as we have emerged into life beyond the diagnosis.

Our hands are often full…

Though we only have two boys, we often tell people that autism is our third child – it certainly drains our time, energy, and resources like a third child would have.

It feels like we have three kids…

…when we try to travel anywhere- to the grocery store or flying to see the cousins.

…when we plan anything that involves an appointment- dentist, doctor, haircut.

…when we consider what items to put in our home – and where. (I covet some gorgeous glass vases, but I know that I would not enjoy needing to “babysit” my decor.)

Yet our ears are empty…

In other circumstances, it is more as if we have an only child – a single non-adult voice in our home, choosing pizza toppings, voting on travel destinations, and making requests for the next family meal. 

It feels like we have an only child…

…when we decide what to have for dinner.

…when we plan special outings and trips for our older son – allowing Mr. Diggy to stay put.

…when B is at a sleepover or camp and the house is eerily quiet.

There is constant motion…

He is a child in seemingly constant motion – indoors, outdoors, jumping, running, swimming, squirming, cuddling and bouncing.  We have installed indoor and outdoor swings, indoor and outdoor trampolines, and any number of other items to attempt to satiate his sensory appetite.  

And unbelievable stillness…

This motion is punctuated by somewhat unexplainable pauses, usually outside (or inside where the sun passes through a window at the exact right angle).  It is at those moments where he embodies the sentiments shared in an Apple commercial highlighting autism awareness: it seems that he sees the wind and hears the flowers.  

What we think we know…

It is doubtful that we will ever hear the quintessential teen “I hate you” from Mr. Diggy.  But we are more than grateful for the moments of pure, unfiltered adoration and love that we receive – all communicated nonverbally.  

We don’t often hear a determined “no” in our home – or any other backtalk or sass, but we do get to witness the power of “yes” when we indulge Mr. Diggy’s longing – nonverbal – requests, for swimming, tickling – or his favorite corn chips.  

We have difficulty explaining “goodbye” to the little man – when we leave (which is rare), I’m sure it must feel like we just disappear.  There is, however, little else that compares to the joy of his “hello” when we reunite.  

And what we can only guess…

We can only begin to imagine what lies behind his unfiltered emotions – pure joy, raw pain, chin-quivering sadness.  His eyebrows seem to speak a thousand words – we use them to gauge what we can about what is locked inside him.  

What is simpler in our lives…

His needs are often simple – water and food, an unadorned, safe place to sleep.  His interests are also often basic – water of any size – from a puddle to the Pacific, a leaf, branch or twig, a surface on which to tap and create his own brand of music.  

And what is more complicated…

Something that is quite challenging is sitting and waiting for anything that is not directly for him such as the post office or the grocery store is nearly impossible.  Even waiting for something that IS for him – his doctor appointment, haircut, or special needs surfing event – is difficult.  

It is easy to feel lonely…

Events and activities that are eagerly anticipated by many others – (including by me before I was an autism mom) – are often something we avoid.  So we skip the barbecue, the ice cream social, the birthday party because disruption to the routine so often backfires.  We also lack the flexibility to stay up late at night here or there, or to eat out in most restaurants – these exceptions to routine are too hard to explain.  The potential fallout outweighs any potential reward.  

But not alone…

Since Mr. Diggy was diagnosed more than eight years ago, we have had a constant parade of people in our house – assessing, evaluating, monitoring, teaching, training, observing, and working with him.  Our home is their office. In many ways, our home feels very public.

Finding balance…

For Mr. Diggy, free time is not a good thing.  Too much unstructured time can easily devolve into a series of stims that eventually fuel a self-propelled meltdown.  So we work hard to fill his life with active pursuits that are not too socially overwhelming. This means we skip the carnival and do the hike.  It means we opt out of Trick or Treating but opt into an extra session of themed occupational therapy activities. It means we host a barbecue and let Mr. Diggy swim while we cook and eat.  

Autism Mom: Piece of Mind/Peace of Mind

There are a lot of ways to live in an autism family.  These are my autism mom perspectives. As your family moves beyond your diagnosis, you need to do what works for you.  At first, an autism diagnosis can seem like a band or orchestra entirely out of tune, with dozens of instruments competing for the spotlight.  Each project, question, demand, therapy – so many things to manage simultaneously. When you make your autistic loved one the soloist – but not the conductor – you can begin to move toward a place of harmony. 

Looking for more ideas to find and maintain your quality of life post-diagnosis? Download out my free Self-Care Survival Guide here.

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.

What is a “Sensory Bank”? Essentials for the 5 Senses

So what is a “sensory bank”?

what is a sensory bank?

Many special needs diagnoses, come along with either a heightened or dulled sense of input to the various senses.  This includes autism and sensory processing disorder.

The sensory bank is the idea that an individual who is sensitive to crowded areas or events, for example, may be able to tolerate a a busy party for a short time IF the person has first filled up their sensory bank with experiences that help to counteract that non-preferred experience – for example, being alone in her room, running through a park or backyard, or maybe even going for a ride in a car with no one else but the driver.  

This concept can help you reframe your family’s choices- both large and small. If you know that large gatherings are stressful, and there is a family wedding that MUST be attended, you can spend the days and hours leading up the event making “deposits” in the sensory bank. If there is a school activity that involves a lot of sitting still, consider walking or biking to school that day to make a “deposit” before the day starts.

Here are some other ideas to help your special needs kid maintain a positive balance in the “sensory bank.”

These ideas are ones we have put in place in our home. Please consult with your family’s occupational therapist before implementing anything about which you are uncertain.

Sensory Bank:  Sound

If your loved one tends to meltdown in loud places, then have a quiet day planned before and after the event, and offer noise-limiting or noise-canceling headphones to extend the time in the loud location.  Headphones can also help in locations with repetitive sounds such as loudly ticking clocks or other triggering sounds.

Sensory Bank:  Vision

Dark glasses or pulling up a hood on a sweatshirt can help block out extraneous visual input that can be stressful.  This can be done before a trip to a movie theater, circus or county fair – or even during the event.  Sometimes it helps to spend time in a quiet, outdoor space before the hectic activity, so as to have a calmer field of vision going into the event.

Sensory Bank:  Smell

If your loved one is smell-adverse, then a small, personal fan can help make highly-scented areas more manageable.  If the offending scent is natural, such as the barnyard smell at a state fair, then provide opportunities for fresh air when possible.  If the scent, however, is Aunt Irma’s overpowering perfume, then also gently ask if she can tone it down when you come to visit. If your loved one has strong scent preferences, then spraying or dipping a scarf in the preferred scent and tying it around his neck can be another tool to consider.  

Sensory Bank:  Taste

Bring snacks in preferred profiles (crunchy, salty, juicy, etc) to help your special needs loved one cope with potentially challenging environments.  This can apply if you will be headed someplace without access to food, such as on a hike or no-frills airplane flight, or if you are certain the food will not work for your family member – ie a pizza party for your dairy-intolerant child.  

Sensory Bank:  Touch

This is a common one – so thankfully many options exist.  Start with tagless clothing, if itchy labels can be a stressor.  A weighted blanket or vest can also be helpful. Compression shirts are a great option for something that can be worn both before and during a situation that would potentially deplete the sensory bank.  You can also use any number of chewies to help with both touch and taste needs.

It can help to put together a sensory toolkit – click here to see why we have one, and what we put in ours.

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.

The Best of Paris: 6 Sweet Treats that are Worth the Walk

Paris: 6 Sweet Treats that are Worth the Walk

In planning a trip to Paris, there are certain sweet treats that seem impossibly hyped – which at some point makes you wonder if those macarons or that ice cream can actually be that good.  On a recent sibling trip to Paris, my thirteen-year-old and I put our sweet tooths to the test – and can verify that these sweet treats do live up to their reputation:

Sweet Treats in Paris #1:  The Macarons from Ladurée

They are everywhere – even multiple locations at the airport – and for good reason.  The macarons were exquisite. (The only reason I didn’t end up with a caseload of them at the airport after our flight was delayed was that my husband is allergic to them, so I thought arriving home four hours later than expected with a “gift” he couldn’t eat would not go over well!)  Bonus: my son proclaimed his Ladurée chocolate éclair to be the best of the trip.  

Ladurée: Multiple locations including 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées  +33 1 40 75 08 75

Sweet Treats in Paris #2:  Any dessert from Le Relais de l’Entrecôte

To be fair, even in two visits, we didn’t try EVERY dessert on the menu- but we did try enough to support this claim.  The chocolate vacherin (tower of meringues layered with ice cream and topped with whipped cream and chocolate sauce) and dessert sampler both shone.  As did the gateau du Relais and the creme brulee.

Le Relais de l’Entrecôte: Multiple locations, including 20 Rue Saint-Benoît +33 1 45 49 16 00)

Sweet Treats in Paris #3:  Tarts from La Pâtisserie des Rêves

A recommendation from a French high school student of ours, this small pâtisserie had a tantalizing center table of both large and small formats of exquisite tarts.  We sampled the lemon and chocolate – both fantastique. In addition, there were precious gift boxes of other treats – including very delicious pâtes de fruits.  

La Pâtisserie des Rêves: Multiple locations including 93 Rue du Bac +33 9 72 60 93 19

Sweet Treats in Paris #4:  Hot chocolate from Angelina

For a combination of reasons, it wasn’t until our last full day in Paris that we tasted this amazingly thick and rich combination of “drinking chocolate” served with a bowl of whipped cream to scoop into your cup.  When our US-bound flight was delayed the next morning, we didn’t hesitate to stop one more time.

Angelina: Multiple locations, including Angelina Paris 226 Rue de Rivoli +33 1 42 60 82 00

Sweet Treats in Paris #5:  Ice Cream (and Sorbet) from Berthillon

I tend toward the sorbets, and was mesmerized by my framboise et rose (raspberry and rose) scoop.  B enjoyed his dark chocolate ice cream thoroughly.  

Berthillon: 29-31 Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île +33 1 43 54 31 61, but available at several nearby cafes as well. 

Sweet Treats in Paris #6:  Anything from La Maison du Chocolat

One of our very last stops on our trip (so that we had a hope of bringing some treats back to the US intact!), I insisted on navigating the process in French (well as much chocolate-relevant French as I could muster!), so I’m not entirely sure what we tasted – but everything we tasted was excellent.  And we picked the most transportable-looking items to bring back as gifts. I’m happy to report they all arrived safely and were promptly consumed upon arrival!

La Maison du Chocolat: 19 Rue de Sèvres +33 1 45 44 20 40

To learn about teen-friendly restaurants in Paris (where your kid doesn’t have to dress up!), click here.

To discover how to maximize your time in Paris, click here.

Want more ideas? Come follow me on Pinterest here.

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box: Packed with Goodies

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box

Have you seen the Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box?  There are a lot of fun items in the box – many of which you can choose.  Once a quarter, this box of fun shows up at your door – which is itself a total day brightener.  Then you get to enjoy the items inside over the next few weeks and months.  

The Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box is available now.  Want to see my choices? Check them out below. Want to make your own choices?  Click here to order yours and save $10 with code VACATION10.  

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box:  The Good…

west elm Indigo Tie Dye Bowls

Beautiful, practical and stackable – three great characteristics for kitchenware.  I have enjoyed using these bowls for a variety of snacks, treats, and fruits – and received a lot of compliments on them.  

Value:  $39

Verdict:  Love them!

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box west elm Indigo Tie Dye Bowls

Eyeko London Eye Do Black Liquid Eyeliner 

A great black eyeliner- easy to control, works well.  I don’t do the full cat’s eye look, but I think it would be excellent for those who do.  

Value:  $22

Verdict:  Would buy again. 

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box Eyeko Eyeliner

Invisibobble Original Duo Pack Hair Elastics 

I like these- they work well.  I have used them to put my hair up (which I do only occasionally) and they hold my straight, somewhat slippery hair well.  

Value:  $16

Verdict:  Great product for my straight hair.  

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box Invisibobbles

Grace & Stella Rose Facial Spray 

A fun product, but not super essential.  I like the scent, but I don’t walk around spraying myself all day.  (I plan to keep it in my desk at school and I’ll use it to freshen up the air after meeting with a room full of sweaty freshmen.)

Value:  $25.95

Verdict:  Fun, but maybe not the most practical item in the box

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box Grace & Stella Rose Spray

Jennifer Zeuner Star Double Necklace 

I like it, but even for a somewhat petite person like me it “disappears” a bit.  It also gets tangled easily. It is a low-key piece of jewelry and one I tend to wear layered with more statement pieces.  

Value:  $50

Verdict:  Nice, but…

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box Jennifer Zeuner Necklace

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box The Bad…

Spiritual Gangster Maya Kimono

A black kimono with a white floral pattern – pretty to look at, but, unfortunately, a dud.  This was my first FFF coulda woulda shoulda – the kimono was too big for me, so I shared it with a friend. Her verdict – definitely a robe, not for out-of-home use. It’s floppy and ill-fitting – I should have picked the Bum Bum cream that was an option here.

Value:  $60

Verdict:  Should have picked the Bum Bum Cream

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box Spiritual Gangster Kimono

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box:  And the Meh…

Whish Exfoliating Foot Mask 

I’ve tried this multiple times- I don’t really notice a difference.  Maybe my feet were already perfectly smooth???

Value:  $32

Verdict:  Meh.

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box Whish Foot Mask

Generation Clay Ultra Violet Brightening Clay Mask 

I’ve tried it, but not sure how well it works.  To be fair, I haven’t used it daily (because I keep forgetting!) so maybe that would make a difference.  But it DID match my nails in this picture – so there’s that!

Value:  $39

Verdict:  Not sure on this one.  

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box Generation Clay Mask

COOLA Organic SPF 30 Makeup Setting Sunscreen spray 

This product is ok- but I don’t use it often.  I think if I was attending a lot of outdoor summer weddings and such it might have been more useful.  

Value:  $36

Verdict:  It’s not a match for my current lifestyle.

Summer 2019 FabFitFun Box COOLA Sunscreen Spray

Have you checked out what was in my spring 2019 FabFitFun box?  Click here to see what was in there.

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 HARVEST10. 

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