This post is sponsored by Stryker . Only your doctor can help you decide if surgery is your best option.
If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I’m all about self-care. As moms, it’s easy for us to prioritize the needs of our family and neglect our own. We make sure our kids never miss a wellness check while we put off a two-minute call to make appointments for ourselves. Here’s the thing: this usually causes more harm than good in the long term. This is particularly true if you’re struggling with bunions, which are bony bumps that develop mostly at the base of the big toe where the joint is located. Based on the location where they develop, bunions usually reduce the mobility of the big toe which can lead to constant foot pain – something us moms should avoid especially since our kids keep us on our feet. As a disclaimer, I have never had bunions.
What Are Bunions and How Do They Affect Adults?
Let’s dive a bit more into bunions! At my first job out of college, I had a fabulous coworker – let’s call her Mary who is still one of the top five most fashionable women I’ve ever met. Mary was older than me with the most gorgeous wardrobe, so much so one coworker even took one of her coats for a spin around the block one day (a story for another day). The only thing is Mary had bunions and I’m glad she was transparent with us about them. She told us her story and educated us younger women at the job about bunions. Mary’s bunions started out small and got progressively worse over the years.
Mary worked full time in New York City and had two kids who were pretty active. She was always on her feet—whether she was rushing to make school drop-offs, pacing through the grocery store aisles, or catching the subway to work. Just like many of us moms, the last thing she needed was the pain of bunions to hold her back, but they did. Mary’s bunions made her feel self-conscious about her feet, and while she was still fashionable, this limited her shoe choices. In a city where everyone walks at record speeds, it was very noticeable how the foot pain from bunions had slowed Mary’s pace.
Bunion Treatment May Help Some Adults
I always wondered if Mary could get treatment for her bunions since they affected her life in so many ways. As moms, we try to find solutions for any and all issues that our kids face, so I think it’s only right that we do the same for ourselves. If you, like Mary, have foot pain due to bunions — even if they’re small or you’ve trained yourself to try to ignore the pain—keep in mind that bunions can get worse over time if left untreated. Bunions can cause the foot’s bone structure to gradually change and a bump could develop on the foot. The deformity may increase over time. causing more deformities like toe crowding1.
So yes, moms should find treatment options to prevent further damage, make walking more comfortable, and allow more shoe options. Treating bunions can prevent further foot problems that affect overall health and, most importantly, it can set a positive example to your kids.
What Treatment Options Are Available for Adults with Bunions?
Stryker’s Surgical Options:
While non-surgical treatments can ease the burden of living with bunions, they are by no means a long-term solution and do not correct the root cause of bunions. I have not had bunion surgery myself, and only your doctor can tell you whether bunion surgery is right for you. Stryker surgical options are designed to provide relief from the pain caused by bunions, preserve mobility, and improve the appearance of your foot: Two of Stryker’s surgical options are: LapiFuse and PROstep MIS2.
LapiFuse:
LapiFuse is designed to reduce pain and prevent the likelihood of needing future procedures3,4 by eliminating the bunion while maintaining your foot’s natural alignment post-surgery.
LapiFuse is designed to keep the foot’s natural appearance4.
LapiFuse is designed to address bunion in the midfoot, preserving joint movement of the big toe, meaning more flexibility of the joint compared to traditional bunion surgery5.
PROstep MIS:
PROstep minimally invasive surgery involves performing surgery through tiny incisions, usually under some form of image guidance. The incisions are just a few millimeters long compared to 3-5 inch incisions used in traditional open bunion surgery. Very small drills (called burrs) are used to make delicate cuts in the bone of the foot and re-align the bone though the small incisions6
A minimally invasive procedure is designed to cause less pain7 and as a mom you can return to your regular lifestyle faster8,9.
Since this surgery is usually carried out under image guidance, surgeons have a line of sight into the foot while operating.
With Stryker’s surgical options, you can say goodbye to bunion pain and get back to your busy mom life. Remember, taking care of your feet isn’t selfish – it is necessary for your wellbeing. Only your doctor can tell you if bunion surgery is right for you, but if you’re thinking about surgical options to treat your bunions, Stryker may have options that fit your lifestyle and needs.Have you dealt with bunions? What’s been your experience?
Share in the comments below. Let’s support each other on this journey to healthier, happier feet!
Lam P, Lee M, Xing J, Di Nallo M. Percutaneous Surgery for Mild to Moderate Hallux Valgus. Foot Ankle Clin N Am 2016; 21: 459-477
Lee M, Walsh J, Smith MM, Ling J, Wines A, Lam P. Hallux Valgus Correction Comparing Percutaneous Chevron/Akin (PECA) and Open Scarf/Akin Osteotomies. Foot Ankle Intl 2017; 38(8): 838-846.
Maffulli N, Longo UG, Oliva F, Denaro V, Coppola C. Bosch Osteotomy and Scarf Osteotomy for Hallux Valgus
Jimmy J. Chan, MD; Javier Z. Guzman, MD; Andrea Nordio, MD; Jesse C. Chan; Carl M. Cirino, MD; Ettore Vulcano, MD. Opioid Consumption and Time to Return to Work After Percutaneous Osteotomy in Foot Surgery. Orthopedics. May 7, 2020
9 Books By Black Women Authors To Read Summer 2022!
I love to read in the summer and while I don’t always have the time during the school year as I’m busy orbiting around my three children’s lives during the school year, the summer is when I get to indulge in some good books. I was sick in bed this week so, I got a bit of a head start and, I enjoyed reading so much that I decided to put together a list of books by Black women authors that I plan to read and/or, re-read this summer. This list is a mix of new books and books I’ve read before that I loved that I believe will be perfect for your summer travel, vacations, etc.
9 Books By Black Women Authors To Read Summer 2022
So this is a double on the list because I still haven’t read The Death of Vivek Oji by Akwaeke Emezi, it’s been on my book list for a while so I’m looking forward to reading both books this summer. You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty will be released on May 24th but you can already pre-order it here. Here is the book’s synopsis:
It’s been five years since the accident that killed the love of her life and she’s almost a new person now—an artist with her own studio, and sharing a brownstone apartment with her ride-or-die best friend, Joy, who insists it’s time for Feyi to ease back into the dating scene. Feyi isn’t ready for anything serious, but a steamy encounter at a rooftop party cascades into a whirlwind summer she could have never imagined: a luxury trip to a tropical island, decadent meals in the glamorous home of a celebrity chef, and a major curator who wants to launch her art career.
She’s even started dating the perfect guy, but their new relationship might be sabotaged before it has a chance by the dangerous thrill Feyi feels every time she locks eyes with the one person in the house who is most definitely off-limits. This new life she asked for just got a lot more complicated, and Feyi must begin her search for real answers. Who is she ready to become? Can she release her past and honor her grief while still embracing her future? And, of course, there’s the biggest question of all—how far is she willing to go for a second chance at love?
Even more exciting, Amazon Studios won an auction for the screen rights to You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty for Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society will develop it so I’m incredibly happy to have this book on my list.
I just finished this book yesterday and I miss reading it, it was such a good book that I found myself completely invested in the lives of the characters. I also enjoyed the journey along with the lives of one character in particular. Since I’ve been finished with this book, I’ve been thirsty to talk about it with anyone who would listen. The themes of this book are very interesting to me as a Black woman. One thing, the end was a bit abrupt but I was able to let that slide since I enjoyed the book so much. I did some research and learned that this book will be made into a television series on HBO by our girl Issa Rae, so I look forward to seeing how they would interpret the story and characters on screen.
The Vignes twin sisters will always be identical. But after growing up together in a small, Southern Black community and running away at age 16, it’s not just the shape of their daily lives that is different as adults, it’s everything: their families, their communities, their racial identities. Many years later, one sister lives with her Black daughter in the same Southern town she once tried to escape. The other secretly passes for White, and her White husband knows nothing of her past. Still, even separated by so many miles and just as many lies, the fates of the twins remain intertwined. What will happen to the next generation, when their own daughters’ storylines intersect?
Weaving together multiple strands and generations of this family, from the Deep South to California, from the 1950s to the 1990s, Brit Bennett produces a story that is at once a riveting, emotional family story and a brilliant exploration of the American history of passing. Looking well beyond issues of race, The Vanishing Half considers the lasting influence of the past as it shapes a person’s decisions, desires, and expectations, and explores some of the multiple reasons and realms in which people sometimes feel pulled to live as something other than their origins.
If you’re like me, all of your friends read this book last summer and you just didn’t get the chance to read it yet. Seven Days in June didn’t disappoint the way that some books disappoint when everyone’s raved about it. This book’s rights have also been purchased for us to see it on-screen which is also very cool. I love that so many Black women authors are getting these incredible opportunities.
Eva Mercy is a single mom and bestselling erotica writer who is feeling pressed from all sides. Shane Hall is a reclusive, enigmatic, award‑winning novelist, who, to everyone’s surprise, shows up in New York.
When Shane and Eva meet unexpectedly at a literary event, sparks fly, raising not only their buried traumas, but the eyebrows of the Black literati. What no one knows is that fifteen years earlier, teenage Eva and Shane spent one crazy, torrid week madly in love. While they may be pretending not to know each other, they can’t deny their chemistry—or the fact that they’ve been secretly writing to each other in their books through the years.
Over the next seven days, amidst a steamy Brooklyn summer, Eva and Shane reconnect—but Eva’s wary of the man who broke her heart, and wants him out of the city so her life can return to normal. Before Shane disappears though, she needs a few questions answered…
With its keen observations of creative life in America today, as well as the joys and complications of being a mother and a daughter, Seven Days in June is a hilarious, romantic, and sexy‑as‑hell story of two writers discovering their second chance at love.
This book was another good read from last summer that I recommended to all of my friends and if you listen to my podcast, you know I shared my obsession with it there too. As an island girl, I couldn’t out this book down and I was happy to hear that it’s also been adapted into a television series. Here is the synopsis:
Camino Rios lives for the summers when her father visits her in the Dominican Republic. But this time, on the day when his plane is supposed to land, Camino arrives at the airport to see crowds of crying people…
In New York City, Yahaira Rios is called to the principal’s office, where her mother is waiting to tell her that her father, her hero, has died in a plane crash.
Separated by distance—and Papi’s secrets—the two girls are forced to face a new reality in which their father is dead and their lives are forever altered.
And then, when it seems like they’ve lost everything of their father, they learn of each other.
I’ve been hearing so much good buzz around Black Cake: A Novel by Charmaine Wilkerson that I had to add it to my list. I’m a casual member of a few online reading groups and I’ve been seeing a lot of members raving this book. I plan to read it soon, so I will be sure to update this post with my personal review. In the meanwhile, below is the synopsis:
We can’t choose what we inherit. But can we choose who we become? In present-day California, Eleanor Bennett’s death leaves behind a puzzling inheritance for her two children, Byron and Benny: a black cake, made from a family recipe with a long history, and a voice recording. In her message, Eleanor shares a tumultuous story about a headstrong young swimmer who escapes her island home under suspicion of murder. The heartbreaking tale Eleanor unfolds, the secrets she still holds back, and the mystery of a long-lost child challenge everything the siblings thought they knew about their lineage and themselves.
Can Byron and Benny reclaim their once-close relationship, piece together Eleanor’s true history, and fulfill her final request to “share the black cake when the time is right”? Will their mother’s revelations bring them back together or leave them feeling more lost than ever?
Charmaine Wilkerson’s debut novel is a story of how the inheritance of betrayals, secrets, memories, and even names can shape relationships and history. Deeply evocative and beautifully written, Black Cake is an extraordinary journey through the life of a family changed forever by the choices of its matriarch.
Yinka’s Nigerian aunties frequently pray for her delivery from singledom, her work friends think she’s too traditional (she’s saving herself for marriage!), her girlfriends think she needs to get over her ex already, and the men in her life…well, that’s a whole other story. But Yinka herself has always believed that true love will find her when the time is right. Still, when her cousin gets engaged, Yinka commences Operation Find-A-Date for Rachel’s Wedding. Aided by a spreadsheet and her best friend, Yinka is determined to succeed. Will Yinka find herself a huzband? And what if the thing she really needs to find is herself? Yinka, Where is Your Huzband? is a fresh, uplifting story of an unconventional heroine who bravely asks the questions we all have about love. Wry, moving, irresistible, this is a love story that makes you smile but also makes you think–and explores what it means to find your way between two cultures, both of which are yours.
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a must-read book for every Black woman in my opinion, actually for every woman. It’s a book that found me, I had meant to read it for years and then one day I was walking to my car from lunch with friends in Brooklyn Heights when I saw a copy on a brownstone stoop, a gesture to pass it along to the next reader so I grabbed it. I couldn’t put the book the down and it’s by far on one of the best books I’ve ever read. Do yourself a favor and read it. Here is the synopsis of Americanah:
Ifemelu and Obinze are young and in love when they depart military-ruled Nigeria for the West. Beautiful, self-assured Ifemelu heads for America, where despite her academic success, she is forced to grapple with what it means to be black for the first time.
Quiet, thoughtful Obinze had hoped to join her, but with post-9/11 America closed to him, he instead plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Fifteen years later, they reunite in a newly democratic Nigeria, and reignite their passion—for each other and for their homeland.
Frying Plantains is another one of my favorite recent reads, I read it last year and I fell in love with this book. It’s a quick read so perfect for a flight or poolside summer read.
Kara Davis is a girl caught in the middle — of her North American identity and her desire to be a “true” Jamaican, of her mother and grandmother’s rages and life lessons, of having to avoid being thought of as too “faas” or too “quiet” or too “bold” or too “soft.” In these twelve interconnected stories, we see Kara on a visit to Jamaica, startled by the sight of a severed pig’s head in her great-aunt’s freezer; in junior high, the victim of a devastating prank by her closest friends; and as a teenager in and out of her grandmother’s house, trying to cope with ongoing battles of unyielding authority.
A rich and unforgettable portrait of growing up between worlds, Frying Plantain shows how, in one charged moment, friendship and love can turn to enmity and hate, well-meaning protection can become control, and teasing play can turn to something much darker.
Since I enjoyed The Vanishing Half by Britt Bennett so much, I’m looking forward to reading The Mothers too. I’ve read so many reviews that states this book was actually better than The Vanishing Half and since I enjoyed it so much, I’m looking forward to reading The Mothers.
Set within a contemporary black community in Southern California, Brit Bennett’s mesmerizing first novel is an emotionally perceptive story about community, love, and ambition. It begins with a secret.
“All good secrets have a taste before you tell them, and if we’d taken a moment to swish this one around our mouths, we might have noticed the sourness of an unripe secret, plucked too soon, stolen and passed around before its season.”
It is the last season of high school life for Nadia Turner, a rebellious, grief-stricken, seventeen-year-old beauty. Mourning her own mother’s recent suicide, she takes up with the local pastor’s son. Luke Sheppard is twenty-one, a former football star whose injury has reduced him to waiting tables at a diner. They are young; it’s not serious. But the pregnancy that results from this teen romance—and the subsequent cover-up—will have an impact that goes far beyond their youth. As Nadia hides her secret from everyone, including Aubrey, her God-fearing best friend, the years move quickly. Soon, Nadia, Luke, and Aubrey are full-fledged adults and still living in debt to the choices they made that one seaside summer, caught in a love triangle they must carefully maneuver, and dogged by the constant, nagging question: What if they had chosen differently? The possibilities of the road not taken are a relentless haunt.
In entrancing, lyrical prose, The Mothers asks whether a “what if” can be more powerful than an experience itself. If, as time passes, we must always live in servitude to the decisions of our younger selves, to the communities that have parented us, and to the decisions we make that shape our lives forever.
I hope you enjoy these 9 Books By Black Women Authors To Read this Summer of 2022! Let me know your summer reading book recommendations in the comments below.
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Let’s start cleaning with thisSpring Cleaning Checklist Printable!
Okay, so I have a confession! I am utterly obsessed with TikTok ASMR cleaning and organizing videos. I watch them every day, and they’re so satisfying. I’ve been doing a lot of cleaning (even broke my dishwasher in the process), but I’m excited to go with the seasons’ transition with some spring cleaning.
I don’t know about you, but after spending so much time indoors for the last few months, I think we’re all looking for ways to freshen up our homes and do some spring cleaning. Living in New York, it’s felt like we’ve been hibernating since last November, and I’m excited to reinvigorate the energy of our home. Spring cleaning sometimes feels overwhelming, so to ensure you’re prepared and have a plan to keep things manageable, I created this spring cleaning checklist printable to use as a guide.
You can use this printable custom to your needs; select the rooms you’re going to be working on and then mark them off as you go. I have covered just about every room in the home with tasks that will help us get our house in its cleanest state. You can use this printable to clean your home yourself, or if you’re hiring help or designating, you can give it to them, so they know exactly what you need them to do.
Click below to download your free spring cleaning checklist printable!
As promised before are a few spring cleaning tips that I hope will help you get the desired results!
Focus on one thing at a time.
Focus on one thing at a time, whether it’s one room or one task; make sure you’re spring cleaning intentionally and focusing on one thing at a time so you can do it effectively. For instance, yesterday, I focused on our linen closet, and I removed everything, wiped the shelves, swept and dusted, and then organized it. There have been times when I’ve started working on one thing and got sidetracked by doing laundry or simultaneously beginning to work on another space, and I ended up not doing it well or not finishing at all. You can’t multitask when spring cleaning unless you’re designating another area to someone else.
Get help
That leads me to my second tip, get help especially if you’re tacking a large square footage. You can hire a house cleaner or ask your friends and family to help you out. Spring cleaning in our house requires work from everyone who lives here even my 4-year-old who loves using the Swiffer duster and helping us unload the dishwasher.
Move furniture to bring life to your space
When I was growing up my grandmother would rearrange her living room whenever she did spring cleaning. I loved when she did that because it felt like a different home, a different experience. Moving furniture can change the energy of a room, improve the aesthetics and more importantly you can clean spaces that we hidden.
Spring is all about bright and airy vibes so make sure you’re brining the energy of life into your home with fresh flowers and/or citrus like lemons, limes and oranges. You can also make floral arrangements that combine the two. As a Caribbean girl, I also use lemons for a lot of our cleaning. I also use them clean our garbage disposal, chopping boards and microwave. There is just something about lemon that makes me feel good.
Declutter
This should be the first thing you do before you start cleaning. Declutter and determine what you want to keep, donate and throw away. If you have kids you will find that you need to do this more often in their closets as they grow out of clothes and accumulate new clothes very quickly.
Focus on organization systems for easier maintenance
If you have a lot of things that need to be cleaned in your home and you don’t have a lot of space, consider investing in some organization while you spring clean. Not only will this make your home feel better and more manageable. You will be better able to maintain a clean home. You can invest in under sink organizers, kitchen cabinets organization, closets, garage and more. See some of my recommendations below.
I hope you found this post and the spring cleaning checklist printable useful and you enjoy your spring. Drop a content below letting me know which room you plan to tackle first.
The Best Gifts for Everyone on Your List 2021! Put a smile on your loved ones faces.
This post is sponsored by DICK’S Sporting Goods.
I think it’s safe to say if you’re a mom, you’re a regular at DICK’S Sporting Goods. Over the past 11 years of motherhood, I’ve bought everything from rollerskates, METS fan gear, basketballs, and cleats to the latest sneakers from DICK’S Sporting Goods. But don’t sleep on DICK’S as a store for just sporting gear; it’s one of my go-to stores for holiday shopping for my entire family. If you need some help, I’ve put together a 2021 Gifts for everyone on your list 2021 at DICK’S Sporting Goods.
Gifts for Kids
Roller Skates
A gift to put a guaranteed smile on a little one’s face is roller skates! These Roller Skates are so fun and cute! I think every kid would be happy to open these up on Christmas morning. I bought my daughter a pair for her birthday, and she loves them. If the kid you’re shopping for is learning to skate, this set is perfect because it includes elbow, wrist, and knee pads. Get them here!
Bikes
Whether you’re purchasing your child’s very first bike or graduating them to a bigger bike, Dick’s Sporting Goods is the perfect place to shop because they have so many fantastic options, from mountain bikes, training wheels to street bikes as well as Dick’s exclusives.
How cute are these Kids’ hunter boots? DICK’S Sporting Goods have a great selection of Hunter Boots for kids. I got my younger daughter this adorable sparkly pair in black and they look adorable on her.
My kids love their Crocs that they got during summer, so these lined Crocs are great upgrades to keep cozy around the house or sit in the back seat of the car as I do curbside pickups this winter.
Hoodies
Safe to say, most kids love hoodies as they’re super comfy for school or play. DICK’S Sporting Good’s private line, DSG, has the coolest hoodie styles for your little ones. Check out their boy’s hoodies here. Also, check out their hoodies for girls here.
Sneakers
These sneakers for preschoolers are the cutest! Little ones will absolutely love the details and colors of these sneakers.
Gifts for HER
Whether you’re a fashionista, lover of all things cozy, or active mom on your list this year, I got you. Check out these fabulous gifts for women at DICK’S Sporting Goods.
Shackets
If you follow me on Instagram, you know I love shackets. I am almost always cold, so I love how they keep me warm, yet they’re stylish.
This CALIA by Carrie Underwood Women’s Shacket is EVERYTHING. I’m obsessed with the eggnog color for the holidays and the material. You can style it with jeans, leggings, over dresses, or even with your favorite pair of joggers. I love shackets for an easy yet warm, pull-together drop-off pickup look.
Also, check out these plaid shackets that can elevate your basics!
Finding cute puffer coats can be challenging, but I love this gorgeous green belted Northface Coat. This coat comes in perfect colors to give you that much needed pop in the winter. It’s very warm, which is necessary for these NY winters.
Loungewear
Although we’ve returned to a more “normal” lifestyle, I’m still a big fan of the comfort of quarantine clothes. This Nike Fleece sweatshirt and matching joggers are the perfect gifts for moms who want to be comfy yet look cute. These come in many stylish colors and look great with boots or sneakers.
I’m a huge fan of Nike Blazers and have a few pairs, but the lows are trendy right now; they make the perfect gift for all your fashionable friends. You can find some great colorways at DICK’S Sporting Goods likethis white/orange/blue/gold or classic black and white. These sneakers will elevate even the most basic outfits; they’re a must-have.
Another fabulous option, the Nike Women’s Court Legacy shoes; they’re a similar aesthetic to the Blazer ’77 low. These sneakers are very comfortable and versatile; you can wear them with basically everything.
Boots
Okay, so I shared the adorable Hunter boots for girls, but what about for women, this gorgeous style? Please wrap them up and put them under the tree for me. I love the platform style; it’s so fashionable. Buy them here.
I’m a Ray-Ban devotee! When it comes to sunglasses, I’ve trusted the Ray-Ban brand for style and quality for decades. When it comes to gifting, I like to give gifts that I know would last for a long time and that’s why I gift Ray-Ban sunglasses. Here are some really fabulous options that would make great gifts.
If you’ve been following me for a while, you know that self-care is really important to me. I think it’s essential for us to take care of ourselves to be our very best. Here are a few wellness gift ideas:
After a long day or week, if you need muscle recovery the Therabody Theragun is the perfect gift This device could be adjusted simply by using an app with 5 built-in speed modes.
Indoor cycling is having its moment now! The Schwinn IC4 Bike is the perfect gift if you have a workout enthusiast on your list.
Gifts for Him
Last but certainly not least, the hardest person to shop for on your list is him. Why is it so hard to find the perfect gift for guys? Here are some options he would absolutely love.
Nike Blazers ’77 for Men
As I mentioned earlier, I’m a massive fan of the Nike Blazers ’77, and I am in love with these colorways for men. He can dress these up or down; they look good with just about everything. Get the Nike navy blue vintage blazer here and the white and black here.
This shirt is the perfect toasty shirt for any guy on your list! I love that it’s sherpa lined, and the plaid print is perfect for the holidays. Get it here!
The design of this coat is a fun twist on a classic design. The color blocking makes it exciting, and you can choose from four different colors. This coat will be the perfect gift if you live in a cold area. Buy it here.
Best Gifts for Everyone on Your List 2021!
I hope you had fun shopping this gift guide and found gifts for everyone on your list 2021. Remember all the products featured in this guide are available at DICK’S Sporting Goods. You can shop online for curbside pickup or in-store. Curbside works best for me as a busy mom because I don’t have to take all the kids out of the car to go into the store; it’s very convenient. Also, sign up for the DICK’S Scorecard Rewards to Earn 1 Point for Every $1 Spent. 300 Points = $10 Reward. ScoreRewards Cardholders earn double points!
What would you want from this gift guide?
Some of you may remember my DICK’S Sporting Goods gift guide last year as well; if you missed it, read it here.
If you found this guide of gifts for everyone on your list 2021 useful, share it!
Download and print these free Amphibians worksheets for kids!
Whether it’s for homeschool, supplementing lessons, or ensuring your kids don’t experience educational summer slide, enjoy these Amphibian worksheets for kids. All you have to do is download and print; they’re all free of cost. These science worksheets are perfect for younger children, whether you choose to use them to introduce amphibians or to review or retain lessons from school. Feel free to share these worksheets with other parents or teachers in your network.
Download Free Amphibians Worksheets for Kids Here!
If you like these Amphibian worksheets for kids, you may also like:
I hope your kids love these Amphibian worksheets as much as my children do and it’s helpful for them. Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Pinterest where I share more worksheets and resources for families.
There are lots of worksheets and educational resources on this blog! Download and print as many as you like and be sure to share with all of your friends who are moms, teachers, etc. You can find all worksheets here!
Outside is reopening, and it’s time for us to let go of the sweatpants! You’re probably receiving invitations, and since most of us are stepping out for the first time in over a year, and we want to make a bold statement and look and feel fabulous, even if our bodies changed during the pandemic. I think this is the summer for us to have fun with fashion and be bold, bright, and fabulous again. The number on the scale ain’t none of our business; our only concern is looking and feeling our very best in the skin we’re in. I was very selective when I put together the most fabulous colorful statement summer dresses of 2021; let me know your favorites in the comments section below:
If you’ve been following me over on Twitter, you know by now that I’m becoming a full-blown Farm Rio addict. I don’t think I’ve ever loved a clothing collection as much as I love their current collection. This dress I’m rocking is from Farm Rio, and it’s one of those dresses that will look flattering on any body type, complexion tone, or age group and make you feel feminine and gorgeous. I love that you can wear it on or off the shoulder and its length. Some maxi dresses are a bit too short for my 5’7″ frame, but this one is the perfect length.
I also purchased this gorgeous cocoa Farm Rio dress which reminds me of the countryside in Grenada where I grew up with my grandma. It looks amazing in person, very pretty.
Here are a few other Farm Rio Dresses that I love for the summer:
You can’t go wrong with a gorgeous slipdress ever, and this yellow one from Express will look amazing on just about anyone. I love the cowl neck and slit on the side. It’s the perfect date night dress, especially for those of us who haven’t stepped out with our love for a long time and want to show them we still got it.
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I also love these two print slip dresses from Anthropologie; such fun and sexy prints.
The world is finally reopening, and after all this time inside, we’re coming out HOT! I love matching mommy and me outfits, especially matching dresses for my younger daughter and me. She always likes to try on my dresses, as you can see here, so getting her a bite-size version of my clothes is perfect for her. I have to say, a lot of the matching mommy and me outfits can be corny, so I mix brands sometimes. Check these beautiful options:
Ps: Many of these retailers have sales this weekend 4/30 so be sure to take advantage of those sales!
When I found this pretty rainbow gingham wrap dress for myself on the J. Crew website a few weeks ago, I didn’t think they would have the kids version, but I went to look for a dress for my daughter, pleasantly surprised to find this one. It’s so pretty! I got it one size up so she wouldn’t grow out of it too quickly. They look great with her Van’s slip-on sneakers!
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The dress is true to size, I purchased a size ten which my usual size, and it fits well. I love that it has pockets. Also, there is a hidden zipper on the side, so it’s easy to get into. I didn’t realize this when I just hurt received it and struggled to get into the dress, so don’t be like me. It’s comfortable, and you can dress it up and down for the summer.
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I was so happy to find this matching Crewcuts dress for my three year old! She’s wearing a size 4T which fit her perfectly and I love the length on her. It’s light and comfortable for her and looks great with her Vans slip-on sneakers.
If wrap dresses aren’t really your thing, J. Crew also have this style which I really love as well.
One of the easiest ways to match with your little one is wearing white! It’s a classic and families have used this color theme for family photos for years. It works, white always look great and it’s pretty easy to find matching white dresses. Here are a few beautiful options!
Above I shared the rainbow gingham dresses but these classic gingham prints are perfect too! There are so many great gingham options right now, you can surely find one that fits your style perfectly.
Spring is the perfect time to rock some florals! I found these matching mommy and daughter dresses on Amazon. One thing I love about shopping for clothes on Amazon is that reviews include images so you can see how it looks on similar body types to yours. These dresses have really good reviews on top of the fact that they’re gorgeous!
Teal is one of my favorite colors this season! These dresses are identical to the white dresses I shared above and are also from Target, but this is an excellent option if white isn’t your thing.
ould you believe it’s only a whole year since we’ve been hit with the Covid-19 pandemic here in the US? There have been so many changes that’s happened over the last year that it feels like it’s been much, much longer. Although it’s been incredibly hard, there are a few good things that have come out of all of the additional time at home for me, and that’s meal planning. Before quarantine life, I tried and failed at meal planning many times. This time around, with my kids at home all of the time, I was able to understand exactly when and how much we eat and to shop specifically for those needs. I’ve even gotten the kids involved in the meal planning process, as I shared here.
I’m by no means perfect, and I still forget to add ingredients to the list, but I’ve come a long way. I even started the New Year with a healthy meal planning class from TiaVFitness to figure out a healthy eating meal plan for myself as self-care in addition to what I prepare for my family. Anyway, this post is all about sharing these free meal planning printables with you.
Download A Free Printable Meal Planner
I started out using the notes app on my phone, a notebook or my planner but I’ve found that having the specific meal planner really helps me to stay on track so I decided to create this one and I’ve been loving it so far. Just download it and enjoy!
I like to plan all three meals to ensure we have enough groceries for everything we eat. One of my biggest mistakes when I first started was only meal planning for dinner and not the other meals so I love this brainstorm sheet.
I used the checklist style grocery list so you can cross off the items as you find them at the supermarket.
There is also a recipe card to keep handy while cooking.
Thank you NY 529 for sponsoring this post. It’s never too early to get growing! Learn more about opening a NY 529 Plan for your child today.
I met my husband while I was still in college; he was fresh out of college and, naturally, a lot of our conversations revolved around our college experience. We both worked full-time while attending full-time college, and we didn’t get the chance to take advantage of experiences like study abroad programs, internships, or even to network on campus. Of course when we became parents, we wanted our children to have options we didn’t have. So, we started a NY 529 Plan for our oldest when she was only a few months old and began making contributions at every pay period. It’s one of our ways of supporting our children’s dreams. Over the last few months that we’ve been quarantined and spending more time together, we’re learning more about their dreams of becoming a filmmaker and scientist (at least for now) and want to encourage them in every way we can.
WHY WE CHOSE A NY 529 PLAN.
The NY 529 was the best option for our family for many reasons, as we learned when we did our research. First, it’s tax-deductible forus NY state taxpayers, so we can deduct contributions of up to $10,000 annually from New York state taxable income for married couples filing jointly and $5,000 for single taxpayers.* It was the best option for us to save for not one, not two, but three kids’ college education and we found it simple to get started.
NY 529 PLAN IS FLEXIBLE.
The NY 529 Plan is flexible; you can save as much or as little as you want, and if your income is ever affected like many of our friends and family are experiencing now, you can make lower contributions than usual. For instance, you can set aside as little as $10 or $20 per week, which can still add up over time.
PREPARED FOR THE UNKNOWN.
None of us could have predicted a global pandemic in 2020, and there is the possibility that other events would occur that may impact our finances in the future and our ability to save for our kids’ higher education. Having an NY 529 Plan means that we can worry a little less, knowing that we’ve prepared for the future.
ELIGIBLE INSTITUTIONS SPAN MORE THAN 4-YEAR COLLEGES.
My kids are only 10, 7, and 3 right now, so their interests may change as they grow older. A NY 529 Plan can be used to pay for any eligible higher learning institution, not just 4-year colleges. That means you can use it to pay for a graduate degree, community college, or a trade/vocational school. Whatever your child dreams of, you can support it.
SAVING OVER BORROWING.
We’re the generation crushed by student loans, so we know how stressful it can be. That’s why we wanted to start saving early and focus on saving versus borrowing to pay for higher education.
Thanks to the NY 529 Plan, we’re grateful that we’re able to give our kids the opportunities we didn’t have when we entered college. Like most parents, we want to give our kids the best shot at achieving their goals, and we’re glad that the NY 529 Plan allows us to do just that on our terms. I hope this helps your decision making if a NY 529 Plan would be right for your family. If you need more information, you can download a NY 529 Plan booklet here or call 877-NYSAVES (877-697-2837) to request one.
* Contributions of up to $10,000 are deductible annually from New York State taxable income for married couples filing jointly; single taxpayers can deduct up to $5,000 annually. New York State tax deductions may be subject to recapture in certain circumstances such as rollovers to another state’s 529 plan, federal nonqualified withdrawals, or withdrawals used to pay elementary or secondary school tuition, registered apprenticeship program expenses, or qualified education loan repayments as described in the Disclosure Booklet and Tuition Savings Agreement. State tax benefits for non-resident New York taxpayers may vary. Please consult your tax advisor about your particular situation.
Earnings on federal nonqualified withdrawals may be subject to federal income tax and a 10% federal penalty tax, as well as state and local income taxes. Tax and other benefits are contingent on meeting other requirements. Please consult your tax advisor about your particular situation.
Investment returns are not guaranteed, and you could lose money by investing in the Direct Plan. For more information about New York’s 529 College Savings Program Direct Plan, download a Disclosure Booklet and Tuition Savings Agreement or request one by calling 877-NYSAVES (877-697-2837). This document includes investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other information. You should read and consider them carefully before investing.
Before you invest, consider whether your or the beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in that state’s 529 plan. Other state benefits may include financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors.
The Comptroller of the State of New York and the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation are the Program Administrators and are responsible for implementing and administering the Direct Plan.
Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, LLC, serves as Program Manager and, in connection with its affiliates, provides recordkeeping and administrative support services and is responsible for day-to-day operations of the Direct Plan. The Vanguard Group, Inc., serves as the Investment Manager. Vanguard Marketing Corporation provides marketing and distribution services to the Direct Plan.
No guarantee: None of the State of New York, its agencies, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), The Vanguard Group, Inc., Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, LLC, nor any of their applicable affiliates insures accounts or guarantees the principal deposited therein or any investment returns on any account or investment portfolio.
New York’s 529 College Savings Program currently includes two separate 529 plans. The Direct Plan is sold directly by the Program. You may also participate in the Advisor-Guided Plan, which is sold exclusively through financial advisors and has different investment options and higher fees and expenses as well as financial advisor compensation.
Back in September, I shared the symptoms of Eczema and Atopic Dermatitis in this post. I got a lot of feedback from this community, many of you are interested in learning about treatments. So, I thought a follow-up post that outlines how to treat Eczema or Atopic Dermatitis in adults and children would be helpful. The timing couldn’t be more perfect than now because it’s winter, and people who suffer from Eczema or Atopic Dermatitis tend to deal with flare ups and worsened symptoms during the colder months of the year. I’m not a medical expert, so I need to share accurate medical information. My source for all of the information I’m providing is an informative conversation withDr. Peter A. Lio, a Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Founding Director, Chicago Integrative Eczema Center.
How to treat Eczema in adults and children.
There is a Therapeutic Ladder for treatment, and in this post, I will take you through each step of the ladder, which are all based on the Atopic Dermatitis’s severity. You start at the bottom with the simplest remedies for more mild cases, and if they don’t work, you move up the ladder to the next level.
Step one: Basic skincare
This is for anyone with atopic dermatitis.
When you start the therapy ladder, your first step is basic skincare. This will require you to use gentle oil-based skincare cleansers and moisturizers. These products must be preservative-free and moisturizing. One issue is that products that meet these requirements can sometimes be expensive, but they can be effective as a treatment for Atopic Dermatitis.
Identify and avoid irritants and allergens.
In addition to basic skincare, you should try to identify and avoid possible irritants and allergens. The most popular irritants and allergens are fragrances, fabrics like wool or coarse fabrics, a diet with certain foods like dairy products, or the weather (transitions or extremes).
Identifying the triggers can be challenging, so you should speak with your medical provider if you’re unable to find a solution on your own. They can do an allergy test to identify specific triggers.
Step Two: Corticosteroids
If step one doesn’t work, it’s time to move up the ladder to step two. The options in step two are best for mild or moderate atopic dermatitis. They can also be used in combination with systemic therapies for more severe disease or flares.
Corticosteroids or Topical steroids should be used on a short-term basis for treatment, primarily where basic skin care cannot provide relief for the patient. They’re also not recommended for treating sensitive areas like the diaper area and face.
If you’re uncomfortable with corticosteroid use, there are some corticosteroid-sparing therapies available that you can ask your medical provider about.
Step three is for patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis.
Phototherapy
When the topical options of steps one and two aren’t effective, phototherapy may be a consideration. Phototherapy is done with the use of UV lights by a trained professional. However, it can be both time-consuming and expensive and not a fit for all patients.
Systemic therapies
Another step-three treatment option is systemic therapies. Systemic therapies can be nonspecific immunosuppressants, like systemic corticosteroids. While these can be effective, please consider that they can be responsible for rebound flares and multiple adverse effects if used over a long-term period.
Other immunosuppressant therapies that the FDA has not approved for this use may also be prescribed if nothing else works until this point, but they may require laboratory work.
New systemic agents are now available and approved by the FDA that target the causes of atopic dermatitis, including the factors that cause itch and inflammation. Dupilumab is approved for use in patients age six years and older to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis that cannot be controlled by topical therapies. Also, keep in mind that topical medications can be used to augment systemic therapies.
Eczema Action Plan
Treating a chronic condition, like atopic dermatitis, should be taken seriously, so a formal written plan or “Eczema Action Plan” should be given to you by your skin care provider and is a guide to your recommended management that you can refer to. Following this plan and the treatment instructions carefully are essential because it helps your medical provider determine what type of treatment would effectively treat your atopic dermatitis. Also, be sure to communicate with your skincare provider if treatments so they can work on changing your plan.
Eczema Treatment for children.
I know that many of you have children who suffer from Eczema. When it comes to finding the right treatment for them, it may be best to go to a pediatric dermatologist if that’s an option for your family. Your child’s pediatrician may not be comfortable treating up the ladder the way a pediatric dermatologist will.
I hope this information helps you manage Atopic Dermatitis for yourself or your child. The key is finding a healthcare provider who can be your partner through your treatment journey. A good clinician will ask you for your preferences to ensure you’re comfortable, communicate with you, and learn about your prior experiences so you can work together to create your eczema action plan.
Thank you so much for your feedback in the first Med-IQ survey with your Atopic Dermatitis experience. It would be greatly appreciated by Med-IQ if you can also complete this survey . As a thank you, you can win one of 10 $100 VISA gift cards.
Med-IQ is conducting an anonymous survey and would appreciate your input. The survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete. Survey responses are shared only in aggregate. Your responses to these survey questions will provide Med-IQ with important information about your experiences with atopic dermatitis, which will help us develop future educational initiatives. Once you’ve completed the survey, you will have the option of providing your email address to be entered into a drawing administered by SOMA Strategies to win 1 of 10 $100 VISA gift cards. If you choose to enter, your email address will be used only to randomly draw the winners and notify them of their prize.
It’s only days before Christmas Day and if you haven’t made your online orders yet, it’s more than likely they wouldn’t t be delivered before Christmas Day. You still have options though, thanks to curbside pickup. I’m happy to partner with DICK’s Sporting Goods to share these winter gifts you can order for curbside pickup. We’ve been using DICK’s Sporting Goods curbside pickup frequently since the pandemic started and it’s been easy and convenient. We place our order online, they send us a notification when it’s ready for pickup and I’m able to get it safely and contactless.
If you’re thinking that DICK’s Sporting Goods wouldn’t have great last minute gift options, I wanted to share some of my favorites on the site that will have you looking like you shopped nice and early.
If you’ve been following me for a while you know that I love Dr. Martens boots not just for myself but also for my family. The Dr. Martens Leonore boots is at the top of this gift guide because it’s both functional and fashionable. I love the versatility of the Chelshea boot design because it s just about every outfit and it’s fur lined so it’s very comfortable. Dick’s offers the Dr. Martens Leonore in three colors but the “Oxblood” is definitely my favorite.
Dr. Martens Serena Wyoming
The Dr. Martens Serena Wyoming Boots is another one of my favorites at Dick’s Sporting Goods. I just love these fur lined Dr. Martens boots making them comfortable, warm and stylish. This style comes in two colors, Black and Tan. I prefer the black as I love how the black leather looks juxtaposed to the off-white fur.
Last week, we had our first major winter storm of the season here in New York City and if it’s any indication of what we can expect this winter, a good pair of snow boots will be necessary this season. The Sperry Duck Boots are timeless, great quality and the perfect chic snow boots to feel cozy when it’s snowing outdoors.
Lounge Wear
2020 turned out to be the year of lounge wear! Comfort has the become most important criteria when shopping and and this Nike Fleece lounge crop sweatshirt and matching joggers doesn’t disappoint. It’s stylish, comfy, warm and I’m in love the neutral color.
SHERPA BLANKETS
I love snuggling up on the couch with a warm sherpa blanket, it’s easily one of the best gifts I can receive this time of the year. Check out these beautiful sherpa blankets at DICK’s Sporting Goods perfect for keeping cozy while streaming.
This coat is stylish and warm, the shape is flattering and great for anyone who wants to avoid bulky coats but not sacrifice warmth.
I love absolutely everything in this gift guide and I think you will too. If you’re still shopping, DICK’S Sporting Goods is also the best store for last minute gifts because they have contactless curbside pickup making it hassle free and safe.
As many of you know, I started homeschooling my children back in September, so we’re still new. We just finished our first quarter, and I have to say it’s been a good experience for us so far. Of course, it was challenging since I have three children of different age groups. I did a lot of research before we started homeschooling, but I’m learning what works best for us as we go along. I initially started to create a homeschool portfolio in a big binder for recordkeeping. Still, I soon realized it wasn’t a good fit for me, especially since I need to submit our records digitally. S o I’ve switched to a digital homeschool portfolio. If you’re thinking about doing the same, I wanted to share a few simple tips for creating a digital portfolio that I’ve found helpful so far.
Choose a platform to save your digital homeschool portfolio.
The platform will depend on what’s best for you and what you’re comfortable using. It can be anything from a working Google document, spreadsheet, or even a full WordPress blog like this one. You can also utilize apps like Childfolio to create and manage your child’s digital homeschool portfolio from your smartphone. I love this app because it can be used to log field trips, activities, and any size creative projects plus it’s inexpensive.
Take photos of everything you want to add to your child’s digital portfolio.
I think most of us millennial moms naturally take lots of photos, so it’s easy for us to get into the groove of taking pictures of everything we need as a record. While I try not to throw out physical copies of the kid’s schoolwork, I take photos for their digital homeschool portfolio. This is also a great way to reduce clutter if you have little storage space like myself.
Make regular notes of your child’s progress and struggles.
This is the best way to track your child’s progression to take note of subject areas they struggle with and seek extra help. It’s also good to make these notes to determine if you need to change your teaching style, the curriculum, or find other supplemental resources to help your child.
Use video to capture your child’s progress.
Don’t be afraid to use all types of media in your digital homeschool portfolio. Videos are great as you can capture your child reading out loud, showing off an exciting science project, and their expression when they work out a challenging math problem or field trip experience. These videos are fantastic for our memories as well as the digital homeschool portfolio.
Download online transcripts for virtual classes and curriculum.
If your children also take online classes, you can download that information to add to your digital portfolio. As I shared in this post, we use Time4Learning and Outschool classes for my children. I can download my children’s transcripts from both platforms and add them to their portfolio, plus the certificates of completion they’ve earned from Code Advantage.
Backup your digital homeschool portfolio.
As we all know, technology isn’t always dependable so be sure to backup your digital homeschool portfolio. My preference is cloud storage like Dropbox, Google Drive, Apple iCloud, etc. because it’s easy to access them from anywhere and any device. You can also use an external hard drive in addition to saving it on your computer.
I hope you find these tips helpful in putting together a digital homeschool portfolio for your children. As our homeschool journey continues, I’m going to share more of our experience, and what’s works best for us be sure to follow me over on Instagram where I share a daily look at our homeschool experience in my stories.
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