Love vs. Pleasure: When Feelings Become the New Morality in Modern Relationships
We live in a culture where pleasure is often mistaken for love, and emotions have become the loudest authority in modern relationships. In the name of self-fulfillment, weāve shifted from pursuing whatās morally right to chasing what feels personally right. feelings But what happens when our desires conflict with our values? What if the choices that bring comfort in the moment ultimately cost us peace, connection, and integrity? This cultural shift has created confusion, instability, and what I call cognitive dissonance dysfunction (as coined by psychologist Leon Festinger in 1957,)Ā ā a breakdown of inner alignment that plays out in everything from hookup culture to commitment-phobia. Feelings Emotional Validation vs. Moral…
Cruelty-Free vs Zero Animal Testing: What Your Beauty Labels Arenāt Telling You
Letās talk about one of the most misunderstood phrases on your beauty products: cruelty-free. It sounds nice, right? It gives the warm fuzzies. But hereās the catch ā just because something says ācruelty-freeā doesnāt mean no animals were harmed in the making. Yep. Itās the marketing version of saying, āIām a nice guy,ā while quietly doing the opposite behind closed doors. And the sad truth? Thereās no legal definition in the U.S. for ācruelty-free.ā That means brands can slap it on a label even if the ingredients were tested on animals by a third party or supplier. Or if they sell in countries (like mainland China) where animal testing…
Embracing āJam Girl Summerā: Sourdough, Sunlight & Slowing Down
The Season of Slower Living Has Arrived! Jam Girl Summer isnāt just a trendāitās a soft rebellion. In a world that rewards hustle and hyper-productivity, this gentle movement calls us to pause, breathe deeply, and return to the simple pleasures that make life feel full. Think cottagecore meets homemade joy: garden dirt under your nails, the scent of sourdough rising in the kitchen, and laughter over clinking mason jars at a backyard ājam-boree.ā This summer, weāre choosing slow, intentional livingāand inviting our families to join us for the ride. Photo Credit Start Your Mornings the Jam Girl Way Forget rushing out the door or scrolling your phone first thing.…
Unveiling Mexico’s Coastal Gems: Tulum, Cozumel & Beyond – Your Ultimate 2025 Travel Guide
Mexico’s Coastal Gems! Ready to dive into the vibrant heart of Mexico’s most captivating coastal destinations? From the ancient mystique of Tulum’s ruins to the underwater wonders of Cozumel, and the sun-kissed shores of Puerto Vallarta, Isla Mujeres, and Cabo San Lucas, we’re embarking on an adventure you won’t forget! If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences, you’ve landed in the right place. Join me, Tanya Michelle, Creator of The Mama Life, as we explore the “Mexico’s Top Places to Visit.” Let’s unravel the secrets of these stunning locales and plan your dream Mexican getaway. Get ready to discover why Mexico’s coasts are a must-visit in…
Gen X Mental Health: The Generation That Bottled It Up Is Starting to Speak Out
For all the talk about The Anxious Generation, youād think Gen X disappeared off the map. The media focuses on Gen Zās digital overload and Millennialsā burnoutāimportant conversations, no doubt. But letās not forget the in-between generation that raised itself, stayed quiet, and is now navigating midlife with a smile and clenched jaw. Yep, Gen X. The reality? Gen X mental health is a quiet crisis. And itās time we stopped pretending otherwise. The Forgotten Middle Child of Generations Gen X (born roughly 1965 to 1980) was raised during a time of economic uncertainty, high divorce rates, and latchkey afternoons. We were the first generation of kids who came…
Are We Keeping Kids Too Busy? The Importance of Unstructured Play
In todayās go-go-go culture, many well-meaning parents fill their childās schedule with back-to-back activities. But itās time we ask: Is all this structure actually helpingāor hurting? More and more experts are urging parents to pause and consider the importance of unstructured play in a childās development. Why Unstructured Play Matters Free play has little in common with the kind of āplayā kids experience today. Organized sports, classes, and clubs are run by adults with rules, goals, and schedules. Kids participate, yesābut they rarely lead. True unstructured play happens when adults step aside. And thatās where the real growth begins. Unstructured play teaches independence, creativity, problem-solving, and resilience. According to the…
Best National Parks in the USA: Epic Adventures Await (National Park Series)
Best National Parks in the USA offer unparalleled natural beauty and outdoor adventures, making them must-visit destinations for any traveler, and this National Park Series will explore some of the most iconic. Let’s dive into five of America’s most breathtaking national parks: Grand Teton, Zion, Grand Canyon, Olympic, and Yellowstone. Series 2 Best National Parks in the USA: Epic Adventures Await (National Park Series) 1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming: Majestic Peaks and Pristine Lakes Why go?Ā Grand Teton National Park is renowned for its towering, jagged peaks that dramatically rise from the valley floor. It’s a haven for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Where to stay? Camping:…
Discover Your Ultimate Summer Travel Destinations
As the summer travel season approaches, many are eager to embark on new adventures. Whether you’re seeking a quick local escape or an epic international adventure, in this summer series, we’ll be highlighting some of the most captivating travel spots in the world. Explore below to find your perfect destination and stay tuned for our in-depth features. Series 1 Top Summer Travel Destinations Around The World Are you dreaming of your next great adventure? This summer, let’s explore some of the world’s most coveted destinations. From romantic cityscapes to pristine natural wonders, we’re diving into Paris, Bora Bora, Glacier National Park, Rome, and the Swiss Alps. These aren’t…
5 Tips For a Fantastic Family Camping Trip This Year
Every year, you and your family are lucky enough to enjoy a holiday together. Usually it might involve hopping on an airplane or heading to a hot and exotic place with a swimming pool. This year you have many different thoughts and for a very good reason. Getting back to basics and going camping as a family is so important for everyone with regards to bonding and getting close again. When it comes to hitting the road on a camping trip, everyone can take a break from their phones, reconnect and find fun in a whole host of different ways. With this in mind, here are five tips for a…
Beaches Close To Atlanta That You Can Drive To!
Our family is definitely more beach life than snow and ski these days, and weāre always looking for great beaches within a six-hour drive from Atlanta. Hilton Head has become our go-to spotāits convenience is hard to beat! We spent Memorial Day weekend there and have some updates from our last visit, along with details on other nearby beaches worth checking out. Where We Stayed Hilton Head is our go to as the convenience is tough to beat. We visited over Memorial Day and have more details and updates from my last post. I am also including surrounding beaches that are within a six hour drive from Atlanta. This visit…
Top 5 Travel Destinations for Getting Your Next Tattoo
Tattoos have evolved from a subculture phenomenon to a mainstream form of self-expression embraced by millions worldwide. Whether you’re a tattoo enthusiast looking to add a new piece to your collection or a first-timer seeking to mark a significant moment, choosing the right destination can enhance your tattoo experience. In this article, we explore the top five travel destinations renowned for their tattoo artistry, culture, and unique experiences. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the vibrant art scene in Berlin, these cities offer more than just a place to get inkedāthey promise an unforgettable journey. āNote this is a sponsored post and I am receiving compensation. Some links…
Apple Zucchini Muffins! The Best Muffin You Will Ever Make!
I have made a ton of zucchini bread and muffins with different variations and have finally found THE BEST EVER! I have made this twice this week already and have requests for more. This recipe is perfect consistency, flavor and balance of spice with sweet. Of course you can always substitute things such as sugar, oil and spices like cinnamon but as this one is it really is perfect! This year I was blessed to use zucchini from my garden and it was amazing! I added an apple to the mix and I can’t begin to tell you how good these are! I made some with walnuts and some with…
Shop Small Businesses Impacted by Helene This Christmas
Small businesses are the heart and soul of our country, and in the wake of Hurricane Helene, many of these businesses were severely impacted. This holiday season, I’m excited to support local entrepreneurs by launching our Shop Small Business Initiative. If your small business offers online shopping and can ship to customers, I’d love for you to be a part of this effort! I have several partners who will be sharing the list of participating businesses on their websites and social media platforms. If you’d like to be included, please fill out the information below to get started. Let’s work together to help these businesses thrive! All submissions must be…
Hilton Head Island a Top Beach Destination for Families
If youāre searching for the perfect beach getaway destination not too far from Atlanta, Hilton Head Island should be at the top of your list. This beautiful island, located approximately four hours from Atlanta, offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and culinary delights that make it a favorite for frequent visitors like us. In this guide, weāll highlight the best places to eat, top things to do, and why Hilton Head Island is an ideal beach destination for families. Top Places To Eat 1. Skull Creek Boathouse For a quintessential Hilton Head Island dining experience, Skull Creek Boathouse is a must-visit. With stunning waterfront views and a casual…
Top 10 Things to Do in Chengdu, China
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province in Southwest China, is a city that beautifully blends rich history, vibrant culture, and modern charm. Known for its leisurely lifestyle, spicy cuisine, and adorable giant pandas, Chengdu offers a myriad of attractions and experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here are the top 10 things to do in Chengdu, each offering a unique glimpse into the heart of this fascinating city. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding No visit to Chengdu is complete without seeing its most famous residents ā the giant pandas. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a world-renowned facility dedicated to the…
Dive In! The Ultimate Guide to Snorkeling in the United States
Exploring the underwater world through snorkeling is one of my favorite ways to connect with nature and witness incredible marine life. My kiddo has taken a liking as well and as soon as he is old enough we will get his scuba license, but for now snorkeling is it! The U.S. has some spectacular snorkeling spots that offer vibrant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes. Here are my top picks for the best places to snorkel in the U.S., along with some essential gear recommendations! 1. Hanauma Bay, Oahu, Hawaii Hanauma Bay is a snorkeler’s paradise with its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. This…
Traveling with Kids to Cozumel, Mexico: A Family-Friendly Guide
Cozumel, Mexico, is not just a paradise for diving enthusiasts; it’s also an ideal destination for families traveling with kids seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. It is one of the safest vacation destinations in the world. Violent crime is almost unheard of on this tiny, friendly island, quite unlike some other destinations in Mexico and the U.S. Hereās a comprehensive guide to help you plan the perfect family vacation in Cozumel. Where to Stay Cozumel offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, from resorts to vacation rentals that cater specifically to families. Here are some top options: All-Inclusive Resorts: Resorts like Fiesta Americana Cozumel All…
Perfect Summer Dishes That You Can Use Garden Veggies & Herbs
Pasta dishes that make the most of the seasonās best produce. The moment when all these spring and summer vegetables collide is so brief that I feel like I have to celebrate it. So, I cook a pot of pasta, sautĆ© or steam the veggies, and toss them together to make wonderful mouth watering dishes. I have included the links to each recipe for you to easily find more amazing ideas! Enjoy! New York Times Cooking, Recipe from Anna Jones, Adapted by Tejal RaoIn this simple recipe, raw pasta and cherry tomatoes are simmered together in a single pan, cooking the pasta and forming a thick, starchy sauce at the…
3 Popular International Travel Destinations For 2024
Every year, we see new travel destinations become more popular than others. We live on a massive planet with so many amazing countries and cultures, so itās only natural that new areas of the world start ātrendingā. Some of the trending vacation destinations may surprise you while others are easier to understand. Below, weāve listed the top three most popular places to travel to in 2024 Source – CC0 License The Middle East This isnāt a country but rather a group of countries that are rapidly becoming hot tourist spots. Places like Dubai in the UAE have long been popular because they offer luxury holiday getaways. Ironically, we have soccer…
Is my child ready for a smartphone? A readiness guide
By:Ā Beatrice Moise Discover key factors to consider, such as their personality, level of development and level of maturity, with insights from a cognitive specialist and parenting coach. I get this question a lot from my clients: When is my child ready for a smartphone? My answer: Itās not only about the specific age. Because kids are still developing, itās essential that they form a sense of identity outside ofĀ technologyānot with technology. That means parents need to understand each childās unique level of readiness for the responsibility that comes with owning a smartphone. Here are a few ways to assess that readiness, based on personality, developmental stage and maturity. Personality:…
The Importance of Feeding Your Spirit
One question I have for you isā¦What have you feed your spirit today? We are consumed with our everyday lives that we forget there is a world that exists beyond our four walls. I am not talking about your neighbor or co-workers I am referring to the spiritual world. What is that you say? It is the unseen influences that go beyond what we see, live and breathe. To illustrate the spiritual world and the need to feed it properly, letās look at two brothers. These brothers lived happy lives, as far as we know. They had no worries played as they wanted, had plenty of food and parents that…
Puerto Vallarta-Everything You Need To Know Before You Travel!
Puerto Vallarta is now in my top 5 of Happy Places to travel in the world! My hubby tried for 14 years to get me to go and, finally! I can’t believe it took me this long! Why you ask? The people, the culture, the food, the cobblestone streets! I could go on and on but I will show you instead! We flew direct out of Atlanta and by using our Delta American Express points we paid for taxes only! If you are interested in learning more about how to travel cheap with points message me and I will give you all the details! My parents joined us on this…
Iām a Mom Raising Kids in The Loneliest Generation
Let me let you in on a little secretāvery few people know my heart. Thousands of friends and followers on social media, but I still find myself lonely at times. You see, making a connection in this generation is very different than generations before us. Prior generations did not have technology and other devices to depend on to socialize. They visited each otherās homes, they went to church together, their kids played, and they were a community. Now, relationships are built on a stranger and social media. We rely on people to give us advice to handle our day-to-day situations, in hopes of a fix. We listen to each otherās…
Viva Las Vegas! Once A Gambling Mecca Now A Food & Show Scene
Las Vegas, sin city where what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Well unless you are a travel writer and then it is a tell all! My husband recently had a work trip and I tagged along for a few days. I have been to Vegas on numerous occasions and have watched it transition into a food lovers paradise and some of the best shows you will ever see! This trip did not disappoint one bit! This post contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Lets start with the good stuff! FOOD! I had the pleasure of dining at SUSHISAMBA and…
Are We Raising A More Fragile Generation Accidentally?
My generation (X and older Y’s) was the last that learned to play in the street. We were the first to play video games, the last to record songs off the radio onto a cassette tape. We had the first VCR, cordless phone, microwave, CDās, Atari, TV remote control, MTV when it actually played music videos, and so much more. This generation will experience newer models of the items our generation had first. We didnāt have cars with airbags, rode bikes without a helmet and knee pads, and were allowed to be kids and get hurt. We were allowed to play in the mud and not regulated sand that is…
Keeping the Peace at Christmas!
Dysfunctional: a : not functioning properly : marked by impaired or abnormal functioning b : characterized by abnormal or unhealthy interpersonal behavior or interaction Since the 1980ās the word dysfunctional has been used to describe family dynamics. Talk show hosts paraded family members on screen for entertainment and the more obnoxious the better. With the Christmas holiday fast approaching I see many people talking about their family and using the word dysfunctional. I used to look at people and think wow they really have it together and their home must be amazing! Then they start telling me stories and I sit back and think holy smokes my family almost seems…
Pura Vida The Way of Life in Costa Rica
Costa Rica, lush rain forests and amazing beaches are just two of the countries amazing qualities. If you add the people and the way of life you have perfection! Costa Rica has more American retires than anywhere else in the world and rightfully so. The unofficial motto is “Pura Vida” translated as the “Simple Life” and is used as a greeting or goodbye. It encapsulates Costa Rica perfectly as life really seems simple. I had the pleasure of visiting Heredia and fell in love! From the old churches to the hospitality shown at the open market, my heart was at peace and I knew one day I would be back.…
Easy & Delicious Gingerbread Cookies!
I love gingerbread cookies! The spices and warmth of this gingerbread cookie is soothing and add hot tea or a glass of milk and it is heavenly! They are fun that you can cut any shape and frost or dust with powdered sugar. I hear Santa really loves gingerbread cookies too! Super easy and yummy gingerbread cookies! You can decorate them with icing or simple powdered sugar. Photo by Nicole Michalou from Pexels Need cookie sheets? Follow link here! Baking Equipment Want to make sure you never miss a post from us? Join the list and be the first to know! Subscribe Here!
7 Brilliant Banana Bread Variations To Try This Festive Season
The festive season is well and truly upon us, so itās time to get your apron on and bake up some delicious treats for your loved ones. Banana bread might have been the lock-down favorite across the globe, but you can add your very own festive twist to this sumptuously decadent bake. Whether youāre trying to get into the Christmas spirit or youāre hosting a party and keen to show off your skills, these seven brilliant banana bread variations are sure to impress! āNote this is a collaborativeĀ post and I am receiving compensation. Some links added are not my own and if you follow they are to adās &…
Your Perfect Date Night – At Home!
In all the crazy thatās been hitting the world, so many of us have been focusing on family (yep, as we should have been), friends – in many ways just as important, and on finding ways to generate income, keep everyone (especially the tiny humans and our parents) healthy, figuring out how to exercise at home, eat betterā¦the list has been endless and at times, relentless. But for many of us, there is one sector weāve been neglecting – āUSā. We mean the royal us as in, the āme + 1ā, us. So weāre going to help you get your and yours, back on track by inspiring the most…
Not Broken Lyric Video!
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOz5klkpc2E[/embedyt] I promise I have not fallen off the face of the earth! I have been insanely busy with my song release Not Broken! I am riding the wave and the journey has been amazing! Have a look at the new Lyric Video that posted today! This is my first video for YouTube music and I am thrilled with the performance. Read here for more and my story that was behind the making of the song! Not Broken, Life After Abuse #music #musicindustry #spotify
Not Broken by Tanya Michelle
I finally had the opportunity to sing Not Broken and record it! It is very very emotional and I did my absolute best to sing through tears. Thank you all!
Have Baby, Will Travel
Traveling with a baby doesnāt have to be intimidatingāespecially when you plan ahead. For our second cross-country trip to California, my son was just six months old, and we made the most of it by learning the ins and outs of flying with an infant. Hereās how it went and what I learned along the way. After doing a ton of research, I found that most U.S. airlines allow children under two to fly free as a lap infant (no separate seat required). That saved us a chunk of change, and luckily our flight wasnāt full, so they let me bring his FAA-approved car seat on board anyway. (Tip: Look…
Best Time To Travel To Peru
Peru is on our list of where we want to visit in the next 5 years! Jade Poleon (Original Post) has given amazing tips and with Baboo Travel you won’t find an easier planning site! They do it all, all you have to do is tell them where you want to go! Peru is a huge country so the time to travel varies from region to region, but it is important to know the main seasons to go and also the main times of the year that you really shouldnāt go. Here are is a lowdown of the best seasons to travel to Peru. This fantastic South American…
Survive Your First Family Vacation
Are you getting ready to plan your first family vacation? We just went to Disney for ours and wow! There is a ton of planning of course and you have different personalities to work with, but it can be done and enjoyable! So where do you start? Destination first! Like I said we went to Disney and by going through Undercover Tourist I was able to save money! I have have never used an offsite company to purchase tickets but so happy I researched and went with UCT. I saved around $130 and the purchase process was super easy! That is for another post though as this one is to…
God Created Them For This Moment!
āDonāt feel sorry for or fear for your kids because the world they are going to grow up in is not what it used to be. God created them and called them for the exact moment in time that theyāre in. Their life wasnāt a coincidence or an accident. Raise them up to know the power they walk in as children of God. Train them up in the authority of His Word. Teach them to walk in faith knowing that God is in control. Empower them to know they can change the world. Donāt teach them to be fearful and disheartened by the state of the world but hopeful that…
Fun Ways To Help Your Kids Learn And Develop
Parents play an integral role in the growth and development of their children. Education and learning at home have never been more important, with many parents taking a more active role during the pandemic. If you have kids, and you want to help them to enjoy learning and encourage healthy growth and development, here are some tips to make learning fun. Image Credit Pexels Get creative Creative hobbies and pursuits offer a wealth of benefits for kids of all ages, as well as adults. Creative activities are proven to boost mental health and reduce stress and they can also be a really powerful and effective learning technique. Many…
4 Ways Adding A Fur Kid (Pet) Can Improve Your Familyās HealthĀ
The benefits of having an animal in the home are numerous, and those that do, know that just being around their furry family member can improve their mood and make them glad to be home after a long day. Why is this though? What is it about those sometimes crazy furry bundles of chaos that can make you feel so much better? Itās an interesting phenomenon, but itās not the only wonderful thing about having a fur kidā pets can improve your health in a variety of ways. Photo by Christian Domingues āNote this is a collaborative post and I may be receiving compensation. Some links added are not…
How to Raise A Stable Child In An Unstable World
In an era before technology we were forced to be creative, inventive, and close to one another. We had a village to raise a child mentality. There were independent/critical thinkers. These are the people who have given us the world we have today. Who will be those inventors and creative people tomorrow when we have dumbed down and eliminated the human connection? Social media has taken over face to face relationships. Texting has replaced real conversation. We have TVās as babysitters and iPadās have replaced hands on teaching. We need to recognize how artificial our world has become and move forward to repairing it. Being a parent in this era…
Get Yourself Truly Into The Christmas Spirit
Itās that time of the year where weāve all got to come together and enjoy the company of our family and friends, and that should be something thatās easy to do! Christmas isnāt the same for everyone anymore, and it can be hard to get yourself into the Christmas spirit, which is why youāve got to put the extra effort in! Thereās no jollier time of year, and youāve got to embrace it for what it is, which is Christmas! Of course, not everyone celebrates it, but thatās no reason to not be jolly! Everyone can partake in festive activities, as theyāre great fun for all. āNote this is a…
The Best Cranberry Pie!
Need a unique dessert? Well this one is it! It is perfect and so easy! I am asked if you can substitute cranberries but I promise even a non-cranberry lover, will love this pie!!! Super simple and so yummy! Hands down the best cranberry pie recipe you will ever make! Even those that do not like cranberries, will love this! Want to make sure you never miss a post from us? Join the list and be the first to know! Subscribe Here!
4 Ways To Start Eating Healthier
Pexels Dieting usually doesnāt work and you might find you try it and are soon off course. Instead, you can take the approach of living a healthier lifestyle and eating healthier overall. The reason you may be struggling with this is that you arenāt sure where to begin or what to do differently. Below are four ways to start eating healthier today so you can improve your mood and physique and begin to love the way you look and feel. āNote this is a collaborativeĀ post and I am receiving compensation. Some links added are not my own and if you follow they are to adās & or Websites that are…
Different Ways To Explore The Outdoors
As most of you know we are a huge outdoors family! I can’t stand to be cooped up inside and love nature! We do everything from hiking, biking, camping and climbing and here are a few ideas for you to get outside! āSome of the links below are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.ā The outdoors are a great place to explore, and there are many different ways that one can do so. This blog post will take a look at the different types of outdoor exploration that people can partake in. It will also…
Naples Florida, The Perfect Couples Getaway
We recently visited Naples for a very short weekend for my birthday. While it was not what I was expecting, I did enjoy the area and the food!After a super short flight from ATL we reached our destination RSW airport. As far as airports go this is one of my favorites! It is easy to get in and out of and the car rentals are on site. It took us about 35 minutes to get to our resort and from there the relaxation was on! We stayed at the Bellasera Resort. The lobby is beautiful and the pools are nice, but I am not sure I would consider this a…
Vacation Planning North Carolina!
I wanted to post this last week as a closer of our Summer Series, but life happens right? I have thoroughly enjoyed working with everyone so much over the summer and learning about different States and the Must Do’s! Thank you to everyone that contributed and I hope y’all have found inspiration for your next adventure! So as an end to the series I am doing North Carolina! A little more about me: I was born in Texas and lived in Florida for a short time then moved to North Carolina when I was 9 or so. While I am not a Born I am a Raised Carolina Girl…
Hilton Head Island! Our Go To Beach!
Hilton Head Island is quickly becoming our go to beach. The drive is under five hours from the Atlanta area and our four year old does well. Of course we still get “Are we there yet?” but that is any trip over thirty minutes. The beaches are amazing, the food spectacular and the island offers several shopping and other activities to keep you busy. This is our second time going to HHI and we stayed in the Coligny Area. “The Mama Life is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.ā We rented a one bedroom condo through VRBO this trip…
How We Went To Disney World & Other Activities In Orlando For Under $1,000!
Okay I know that doesn’t sound like a big deal but if you have ever gone on a magical Disney vacation you know that it adds up quickly! The tickets alone for a family of 3 one day with no hopper will cost you around $400! So how did we do 4 days of travel, 1 day at Disney, 1 day at Sea World and Breakfast with Goofy and Friends for under $1,000? Points! I knew we were planning ahead of time and started saving every point possible. I have Expedia and am a Gold Member so I was diligent in booking all my travel (corporate) through them to rack…
Not My Childhood, How My Parents Have Made Me A Better Parent.
Childhood looks vastly different for each of us.Ā Charles Dickens said, āIt was the best of times, it was the worst of times.ā Parenting is the easiest and the toughest job. Easy because it works on mutual love and instinctual care but tough because a single mistake can cause lifelong scars. With that said, these are things that my child will never understand: Childhood Sexual Abuse I am a product of sexual abuse that started at a very young age until I was 13 years old. I fortunately have a powerful God that kept me from becoming a statistic. I used it to make me an independent and strong person and…
To the mom/woman that ______, I donāt See you.
To the mom/woman that ______, I donāt See you So many titles these days that have āI See Youā and this may make me a bit unpopular but, I don’t See you. I don’t See the struggles you face with depression or anxiety every day because of your situation. I don’t See the difficulties of having a child with special needs. I don’t See the woman that has spent countless hours injecting herself with a cocktail of meds and praying this time will be her miracle and conceive. I don’t See the mama that is with the love of her life in the NICU, praying that she will get to…
A Weekend In Hendersonville NC
In December we decided to do a weekend trip sans toddler to Hendersonville, NC. Hendersonville is a city just outside of Asheville. Hendersonville is a quaint little town (okay second largest in Western Carolina) and has officially made it to the list of my Top 10 towns I love! We stayed at The Charleston Inn, an adorable B&B, within walking distance of town. We were visiting The Biltmore for the candlelight Christmas tour, but wanted to be further away from Asheville. Don’t get me wrong I love Asheville with all my soul, but the change of scenery was needed. After our 3 hour drive to get to Hendersonville we stopped…
Best Things To Do & See In Colorado!
Colorado, one of the greatest vacation destinations in the world! We had the pleasure of living there for four years and we loved every minute of it! We moved back to the East Coast last year so our little one could grow up with family but will definitely take him back to his birthplace and let him enjoy some of the great things we did while there. So there are the typical things that are a must do, but there is so much that is overlooked if you aren’t a local. This list combines the local spots as well as the touristy but in my mind are amazing and totally…
The Ultimate Guide To Stress-Free Decluttering
Decluttering can have an incredible impact on the look and functionality of your living spaces, but itās also proven to reduce stress and boost your mood. Whether youāre planning a long-overdue clear-out, youāre moving house, or youāre sorting out cluttered zones, such as garages and attics, hereās a guide to stress-free decluttering.Ā Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-sitting-in-front-of-cardboard-boxes-8580802/ Give yourself time to stress-free declutter Decluttering is proven to ease stress, but it can have the opposite effect if you try to pack too much into a busy schedule. Avoid trying to eliminate clutter and get your home organized after a long day at work or during a weekend when youāre juggling…
š Nostalgic Summer Getaways in the Southeast: From Smoky Mountains to Vintage Beach Towns
Looking for the best nostalgic summer travel ideas in the Southeast? Combine retro charm, mountain serenity, and classic beach vibes with this timeless road trip itinerary. Whether youāre chasing Blue Ridge Parkway breezes or sun-drenched boardwalks, the Southeast is filled with throwback spots perfect for memory-making in 2025. š Start in the Smoky Mountains: Old-Fashioned Charm & Cool Breezes Begin your journey in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, Tennesseeātwo towns that feel delightfully frozen in time. Surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, these family-friendly destinations bring together misty trails, pancake houses, vintage cabins, and neon-lit fun. Donāt Miss: The iconic SkyBridge in Gatlinburgāa modern thrill with retro views Dollywood, where…
Budget-Smart Birthday Parties That Still Wow the Kids
When planning a birthday party for kids, itās easy to get caught between Pinterest-worthy visions and the sharp pinch of real-world budgets. But celebrating big doesnāt have to mean spending big. With a few strategic moves, you can throw a party that feels extravagant ā without the price tag to match. Via Pexels Start with a Theme That Inspires Simplicity Skip the complex themes that require specialty props and expensive licensed dĆ©cor. Instead, anchor your party around a flexible idea: outer space, color explosions, jungle adventure, or even cardboard creativity. These themes spark imagination and offer broad room to DIY elements. A cardboard box becomes a spaceship, old…
Unlock Success Early: Different Ways to Give Your Child a Head Start
Raising children can be challenging in the modern world, but arming them with the appropriate tools and opportunities early can open doors to their future success. Establishing these benefits doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By focusing on important areas of development (mental, emotional, physical, and social) you can equip your child to thrive across every aspect of life. In this blog, we will look at some actionable strategies that can put them on a path toward future success right from day one. Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash Focus on Early Cognitive Development Encourage a Love for ReadingĀ Books can be powerful tools in early…
3 Simple Tips to Start a Business (& Avoid the Stress)
As much as youāll want to start a business, it isnāt a process you should rush into. Itās always worth making sure you know what youāre doing with it. That way, youāre in a much better position to see success while avoiding a bit of unnecessary stress. Knowing the right steps and startup tips helps with this going forward. Using as many of them as possible can be recommended. Theyāll help you make sure everythingās properly taken care of, letting you build a solid foundation for future success. Itāll always take time and effort, but thereās no reason why theyĀ shouldnāt help you moving forward. Youāve no reason not to…
Critical Wedding Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
If you want to make sure that your wedding goes as smoothly as possible, then youāve come to the right place. This guide will show you what steps you can take to try and make sure that your wedding goes off without a hitch, as well as highlighting some of the mistakes you should be avoiding. Wedding Planning Tips to Avoid Major Mistakes on Your Big Source: Pexels Not Setting a Budget Wedding Planning Tips One of the most important aspects of planning a wedding is setting a realistic budget and sticking to it. One of the biggest mistakes people tend to make is not being mindful of how…
Road Trips Made Easy: Why RV Adventures Are Worth It
Road trips offer a freedom that few vacations are able to match. You can stop when you want to explore hidden spots that you discover and change your plans on the fly. Add an RV Adventure into the mix, and the experience gets even better. RV travel combines comfort, flexibility, and the thrill of discovery. You’re not tied to hotel or restaurant hours, and everything you need to travel is with you. Whether you’re driving across state lines or exploring nearby parks, an RV makes the journey just as fun as the destination. Here’s why RV adventures work for families, couples, or anybody who is chasing the open road. …
6 Self-Care Habits You Need to Start Today
Self-care is an essential part of looking after your health. While your physical health is important to prioritize, so is your mental well-being. Doing activities that focus on providing you with self-care is the best way of looking after yourself. Self-Care Ideas So with that being said, here are some self-care habits that you could start doing today to put yourself first for a change. Image Source Self-Care Ideas Get more sleep Weād all like a bit more sleep, right? Well, as hard as it can be for some to get sleep, itās always good to try, where possible, to get more sleep every night.Ā This can be…
The Comfort Crisis, Anxiety, and Why Ants Might Be Onto Something
Ever watch ants carry crumbs twice their size? Or build a bridge of bodies just to reach a goal? They donāt overthink it. Donāt quit halfway. They just do the workātogether.It is the Comfort Crisis and Anxiety phenom Itās wild to think these tiny creatures, with no concept of comfort, accomplish so much. Meanwhile, weāve built a world that practically runs itselfāand yet, weāre more anxious, scattered, and burned out than ever. e.Ā Living in a Comfort Crisis Thereās a name for what weāre going through: the Comfort Crisis. Coined by author Michael Easter, the term refers to how modern life has eliminated nearly all forms of healthy stressāleaving…
