Cascia Talbert's Blog, page 60

Tightening Your Purse Strings? Here Are 6 Ways Moms Can Start Saving Money Big Time

by LouAnn Moss

Regardless of whether you’re a single mom, stay-at-home mom, or a working mom — raising kids isn’t cheap!

In fact, the average cost of raising a child until they’re 18 is over $230,000! Odds are, you don’t have that kind of money laying around.

Being mom sometimes means you have to tighten those purse strings. Here are the six best money saving tips for moms that will help you make ends meet.

1. Embrace Free Entertainment

If you’re wondering how moms can save money, embrace free entertainment.

Yes, every other mom on Instagram has photos of their expensive vacations and all the latest toys. But there are more ways to have fun than spending a ton of money.

Instead, take advantage of free entertainment in your area. Check out your local library and grab a schedule of their events. We bet there’s a local parks department in your area that also has regular events for children of all ages.

And what’s wrong with good, old-fashioned outside play? Make a day out of a visit to the local park or beach. Pack a picnic lunch and watch how much fun your kids have — without spending a dime.

2. Meal Prep

Speaking of packing a picnic lunch, meal prepping is another popular way moms save money.

Designate a day of the week as your planning day. During this day, start by creating a menu for every meal of the upcoming week. We suggest including snacks on your menu as well.

Then, shop for all the supplies needed. Once you know your menu, you’ll know exactly what food items are necessary and won’t fall victim to impulse buys.

Then, make your upcoming week easier by prepping as much as possible. If your children enjoy chicken breasts and veggies for lunches, try cooking the chicken breasts during your prep day. That way, when you’re tired during the week and tempted to hit up the drive-thru, all you need to do is heat up your already prepped meal.

3. Shop Savvy

Another one of the best money saving tips for moms is savvy shopping.

Always look for the best coupons and deals before heading out to the store. But don’t worry, the days of the huge coupon binder are over. There are tons of great coupon apps out there that make saving money easy, including Ibotta, Honey, and SnipSnap.

We also suggest shopping out of season. It seems like growing kids need a whole new wardrobe each season. But instead of buying these items full-price, think ahead and buy items when they are on sale after each season in anticipation for next year.

These two tricks alone can save you tons of money in your grocery and clothes budget.

4. Travel Cheaply

An easy way to slash your budget is traveling cheaply. And no, we don’t mean traveling overseas for a luxurious vacation. We mean your everyday travel.

First, start with a reliable, cheap vehicle. You don’t need a brand new SUV or minivan for school drop-offs! Finding a used car on a budget is easy, it just takes a little more effort.

Once you find a used vehicle in your budget, make sure to perform regular maintenance to extend its lifespan.

We also recommend taking advantage of public transportation and walking as much as possible. All those short trips to the library and park really add up. Instead, get a little exercise and enjoy a walk with your children — all while saving money on gas.

5. Eliminate Debt

Sometimes saving money involves spending money. An easy way to increase your available budget is to pay off your debt earlier than planned.

As financial expert Dave Ramsey says, “your biggest wealth-building tool is your income.”

This means that the less money you have spent on your debt obligations each month, the quicker your net worth grows. Instead of throwing $300 to your minivan payment each month, you could be putting that money into private school tuition.

Sit down and figure out just how much of your money goes towards debt obligations each month. This includes car payments, credit card bills, student loan debt, and any other consumer debt. We bet the amount will shock you.

6. Go Minimalistic

The minimalist lifestyle is growing in popularity thanks to organizing icon Marie Kondo. Use her tips and see how much the minimalist lifestyle can help your budget and organization.

Minimization is all about having exactly what you need, without an excess. This involves investing in a few high-quality items instead of having dozens of cheap versions. So instead of 20 shirts for each season, buy your children 10 high-quality shirts that will last for years.

This lifestyle change also involves organization. Think of how often you’re at the store and can’t remember if you have any sunscreen or bug spray leftover for the weekend. With the proper organization, you’ll always know what items you have and can stop wasting money on duplicates.

Get More Money Saving Tips for Moms

Using these six money saving tips for moms, you can be the best mom on the block.

Start with one of these tips that speaks to you the most. Then, once that tip is an established habit in your life, start using another tip. Eventually, you’ll be saving money left and right.

Just be sure that you use your extra money wisely! We suggest setting up a six-month emergency fund or investing in your children’s future college education. If you’re putting in all the time and effort to save money, you want to make it worthwhile.

Looking for more tips on parenting and mom life? Be sure to bookmark our site and check back often for more great content.

 

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The article Tightening Your Purse Strings? Here Are 6 Ways Moms Can Start Saving Money Big Time by LouAnn Moss appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

What You Need to Have In Your Purse: 10 Purse Must Haves

by Tiffany Pratt

A purse is more than a last-minute fashion accessory. Purses are portable storing spaces so that you can have everything you need on the go.

Long commute? Equip yourself with a kindle. Got a cold? Store an endless supply of tissues at the ready.

Before packing, decide on what you need so you don’t end up with a bag full of clutter. It’s difficult to prioritize when you’re unsure of plans, so to help you, we’ve compiled a list of what to keep in your purse.

1. Wallet, Phone and Keys

These three items are crucial for modern-day life: phone, wallet, and keys. Your wallet should fit snugly into your purse so you can grab it when needed. It should contain your ID or driver’s license, credit cards, and cash.

If you carry on a purse, slip your phone into your purse’s smaller compartment so it doesn’t get lost. Find phone cases that fit in a purse so it’s easily accessible whenever you receive a call or a text. When choosing a case make sure it protects the phone and fits into the pockets. The best phone case for purse should keep your phone discreet and prevent scratches.

Invest in a portable phone charger so your phone never runs out of juice on the road. And slip your keys into a small, secure side pocket so they can’t fall out or get stolen.

2. Travel Pack Tissues and Toiletries

A small pack of tissues is a life-saver even if you don’t suffer from allergies. They’re useful after a spill, during an unexpected cold and a great way to show kindness to sniffling strangers.

Be prepared with a small toiletries bag and keep it in your purses.  Fill it with 3-5 pads or tampons, sunscreen, and mini vaseline. Vaseline is a versatile must-have for your purse. It acts as a lip balm, prevents blisters, removes makeup and works as a moisturizer.

Also, add hand sanitizer to the collection. Although hand sanitizers will never replace a thorough handwash, they combat the germs we face daily in public transit, bathrooms, and your phone screen.

3. Breath Mints or Chewing Gum

To avoid any awkward run-ins after lunch, pack mints or chewing gum to have in your purse. Carrying these will give you that just-brushed feeling, great after meals and before impromptu meetings.

4. Makeup Bag

Having makeup on you means you’re prepared for last-minute meetings or dinner parties! Fill up a bag with your basics like eyeliner, lipstick and lip balm for throughout the day.

5. Hair Brush and Elastic Hair Bands

You never know when you’ll face bad weather, a wardrobe malfunction or an unexpected trip to the gym. If you rock shorter hair, always stock up on bobby pins and clips to keep your hair neat. Also, a (mini) hairbrush is a must-have for handbags because you never know if there’s an important occasion around the corner.

6. A Healthy Snack and Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is key when you’re running errands all day. It’s wise to keep energized by storing a healthy snack in your purse to prevent binging on chips or cookies. Instead, find a snack rich in protein like beef jerky or almonds. If you store a selection of snacks, be sure to have a zip-lock bag to contain the crumbs and keep your purse clean.

7. Medication

It’s wise to carry enough over-the-counter painkillers or anti-inflammatory tablets for when disaster strikes. Also, stock up on band-aids to combat blisters from new shoes or any tumbles.

8. A Planner, Notebook and Pen

Notebooks are great as you can store your ideas in one place. Struggle with staying organized? Planners help you become focused, organized and make crossing off your to-do list far more satisfying than on your phone. Keep a pen or pencil handy so you can also fill out forms or sign off a letter.

9. A Form of Entertainment

Take small entertainment options in case you get bored. If your purse is big enough, pack a book or even a tablet to keep you occupied. Find short stories, poetry or novels with short chapters so it’s easy to start and stop whenever you’re on the go. Only have a small purse? Make sure you have games or podcasts loaded on your phone instead.

10. Safety Items

Although it most likely won’t be necessary, keep several safety items in your purse. To feel empowered, stash a can of pepper spray, a whistle or even a personal safety alarm which goes off when you activate it.

Ensure you store these in a concealed but accessible zipped pockets. Before stocking up on safety items, learn how to use them and check whether your local area has any restrictions on which items you can or can’t carry.

Now You Know What To Keep in Your Purse

Once you know what to keep in your purse, you’ll eliminate clutter and have a neat, organized purse. Be prepared for everything, from sneezing fits to blisters, to avoid any mishaps during your busy day. Also, ensure you have entertainment options because you never know when you’re waiting for someone or if a train is delayed.

If you’re a mom looking for a community to join, we’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment below!

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The article What You Need to Have In Your Purse: 10 Purse Must Haves by Tiffany Pratt appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Best Material for Outdoor Furniture: How to Choose for Your Climate

by Cascia Talbert

Not sure what kind of outdoor furniture to get?

Outdoor furniture can complete a patio by giving you a place to gather with family and friends. They can also be used in garden areas for resting spots after a long day of work.

The problem that many people deal with is deciding what kind of furniture to get. It can be difficult to choose because every piece of furniture is made with different material for different climates.

Continue reading to learn about the best material for outdoor furniture.

What Are You Looking For?

When deciding what kind of furniture to get, you need to figure out what exactly you’re getting it for. Decide where you’ll be putting their furniture and what type of style you’d like.

If you’re going for old-fashioned patio design, you’ll want to invest in wooden furniture. If you want a modern design, you can opt for metallic furniture.

You also need to decide how much money you’d like to spend. Having a budget will narrow down your choices and prevent you from spending too much.

Keep in mind that by spending more money, you can get furniture that will last much longer. You don’t have to break the bank, but it’s something to consider.

Factors to Consider

There are many factors that should be considered when buying lawn furniture. Depending on where you live can factor into your choices because some furniture lasts longer in certain areas.

Weather

Weather will play a big role when determining what type of furniture to get because you need furniture that is resistant to it. If it rains a lot in your region, you will need water-resistant furniture.

Mold

When you live in a wet and humid environment, mold can become a major problem. Mold can develop easily on wood because it’s porous and soaks up moisture.

It’s important to waterproof wooden furniture so you can avoid mold and the health issues that it can bring, such as respiratory problems.

Rust

While metal isn’t as vulnerable to mold as wood is, it’s highly vulnerable to rust. Metal furniture can start rusting when it’s exposed to water for a long time. This will start corroding the metal, causing it to break apart.

You can rust-proof metal furniture by applying a primer to the surface. This will form a solid coating that will protect it against the elements.

Best Material for Outdoor Furniture

If you’re wondering when to buy outdoor furniture, you can start browsing after you’ve considered the factors. The best materials that backyard furniture is made out of is wood, metal, and plastic.

Wood

Wood is a material that has been used to make furniture for as long as humans have existed. Wood is easy to work with and provides a beautiful appearance that can be used anywhere.

Teak is a type of wood that is commonly used for outdoor furniture because it’s durable and naturally repels water. It’s very easy to maintain because it already contains a high amount of oil. The oil repels insects and protects it from decay.

White Oak offers a highly water-resistant wood. This wood is usually used to build boats because it repels water with ease. The downside is that is doesn’t contain much oil, so durability can be a problem if it isn’t sealed.

Metal

Metal is a very strong and long-lasting material that’s often used for outdoor tables and chairs that will sit in the open. These are great for gardens because they don’t attract any insects to them.

Stainless steel is a common form of metal for outdoor furniture. Steel easily gets hot in the sun, but it can stand through extreme temperatures. Its weight prevents it from tipping over, and its surface is very easy to clean.

Aluminum is the most popular metal used because it’s affordable and durable. It’s not as strong as steel, but it also never rusts. Aluminum is very lightweight, so it can be blown over if winds are too strong.

Plastic

Plastic furniture has been popular for quite some time because they are inexpensive and are usually more decorative. Plastic can be easily colored and is also easy to maintain.

Synthetic wicker is made from a synthetic resin that is stronger than the natural alternatives. Natural wicker is vulnerable to weather whereas synthetic wicker is waterproof and eco-friendly.

Recycled plastic is eco-friendly and allows people to own good furniture without breaking the bank. This kind of furniture is extremely durable but can be blown over with the wind. It doesn’t require much maintenance and doesn’t fade.

Fabrics

Fabric is often combined with furniture to give people something comfortable to sit on. Rather than sitting on a hard surface, a person can sit on a cushion or use a pillow.

Acrylic is resistant to weather and damage from use. It is also waterproof, but it’s still porous so it can stay cool. Acrylic is often used for cushions, pillows, and umbrellas.

Polyester is similar to acrylic in that it’s weather-resistant, but it can be coated with acrylic for added durability. It’s very durable against tears and can dry quickly, but it’s vulnerable to fading.

Buy the Best Outdoor Furniture

There are many furniture options for homeowners to choose from. Choosing the right furniture will ensure that yours last for a long time and maintain their great appearances.

Choose the best material for outdoor furniture based on where you live and what you plan to do with them.

Feel free to visit the rest of our blog to read more about home ideas!

 

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The article Best Material for Outdoor Furniture: How to Choose for Your Climate by Cascia Talbert appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Get Moving: 8 Storage Unit Packing Tips and Tricks

by LouAnn Moss

It can take upwards of 60 days to find a home and another 60 days to close on it. If your current home has already sold but you’re not quite ready to move into your new home just yet, you may need to get a storage unit in the meantime.

Although it’s only temporary, you’ll want to make sure everything is organized just right to avoid damage and ensure important things are still accessible. Luckily, you can do just that by following some important storage unit packing tips.

Do you want to know more? Keep reading to learn how you can keep your storage unit nice and organized until you can move into your dream home.

1. Use Wood Pallets

Water and pests in your storage unit can cause a lot of damage. The best way to protect your belongings is to line the floor of your storage unit with wood pallets.

While not foolproof, this will deter rats, ants, and other pests from chewing on your boxes and making a home there. It’s also a great way to protect against water if a stored appliance wasn’t properly drained.

2. List What’s in Each Box

Chances are, you’ll need to visit your storage unit at least once to get something. But when you don’t label your boxes or just label them by room, you’ll likely have to open dozens of boxes before finding what you’re looking for.

To avoid this, write a list of what is in each box. Of course, you don’t have to list everything individually, but labels like “books and DVDs” or “kitchen gadgets” will make a world of difference. Make sure you write your list directly on the side of the box with a marker, so you don’t risk losing your list or having a taped list rip off.

3. Wrap Breakables in Cloth

Why spend extra money on bubble wrap and packing peanuts? Breakables can be wrapped in cloth that you already have laying around to save money and make for more efficient packing.

Towels, clothes, pillowcases, sheets, and blankets can all be used to protect fragile items. Just make sure you won’t need these things before you move into your new house, or you’ll end up leaving your breakables with no cushion.

4. Move Heavy Items in First

When it comes time to move your belongings into the storage unit, you’ll want to start with the heaviest things. Furniture and heavy boxes should go on the floor (or the wood pallets). While furniture is a great base to stack heavy boxes on top of, you should never stack heavy boxes on top of other boxes.

Next, move in the medium-weight boxes. Put the heaviest ones on the floor, if there’s any space left. The rest can get stacked on top of the heavy boxes. Finish off by putting the light boxes on top.

Not only does this method prevent boxes from collapsing and potentially damaging your belongings, but it’s also safer. Trying to move a heavy box from the top of a stack could result in injuries if you accidentally drop it or if the bottom caves.

5. Create a Path

It’s easy to just throw all your belongings in a storage unit without thinking about layout. But you’ll quickly regret this if you need something from your unit later on.

To ensure you can easily get to your boxes, create a path down the middle of the unit. Think about what items you realistically may need to get from your unit. Put those boxes closest to the path, so they’re easier to get to.

6. Take Advantage of Vacuum Sealing

One of the best ways to save room in your boxes and storage unit is to take advantage of vacuum sealing when you can. Clothes, blankets, comforters, Halloween costumes, and anything similar can be vacuumed sealed to save space and protect it against water and pests.

Just make sure that the bag and item are completely dry before vacuum sealing or you risk trapping moisture in. This can cause mold to grow and leave you throwing away your belongings.

7. Dry Out Appliances

Are you planning to store an appliance that holds water, like a freezer, refrigerator, or washing machine? If so, make sure you completely dry it out before you store it.

Even the smallest bit of water can leak out and cause mold and mildew to grow. Larger amounts can even cause water damage if the rest of your belongings aren’t raised on wood pallets.

Luckily, with the proper maintenance, you can dry your appliances out and safely store them. It’s best to dry them out and keep them in the garage a few days before moving them to the storage unit. This way, you can see if any water is still trapped inside.

8. Make Use of Drawers

Large pieces of furniture take up a lot of space in your storage unit. But you can make up for this by using them as extra storage.

Any small boxes or items can be stored in drawers and cabinets. You can even use empty space in ovens, dryers, and dried refrigerators as storage.

The Best Storage Unit Packing Tips

Don’t just fill up your storage unit without a plan. Instead, follow the storage unit packing tips above to stay organized and make the most of your space. From using wood pallets to keeping things inside furniture, there are many tips to make storing easier.

Do you want more great tips like this? Then check out the rest of our blog today!

 

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The article Get Moving: 8 Storage Unit Packing Tips and Tricks by LouAnn Moss appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Fun Outdoor Exercise Ideas to Help Keep Your Family Healthy

by LouAnn Moss

Families these days tend to spend a lot of time being sedentary, either sitting at desks working or doing homework, or on the couch watching television or playing video games. A sedentary lifestyle has been shown to be a contributing factor in a number of health issues, including childhood obesity, high blood pressure and type II diabetes.

The arrival of summer presents an opportunity for families to get outdoors and participate in fun, healthy activities that will allow everyone to get some much-needed exercise. Doing things together helps create fond family memories, too. Read on for some healthy outdoor activity ideas that will encourage your kids to exercise.

Hit the Trails

Hiking is a great way for the whole family to get a serious workout, enjoy nature and reduce their stress levels at the same time. It’s also a great way to check out new landscapes, and can be adapted for just about any fitness level. Hiking is great for everyone’s cardiovascular health, and best of all it’s low-cost. All you need in many cases is a good pair of hiking boots and a pack to carry a few supplies.

Jump in the Lake

Swimming is great exercise. It provides everyone with a full body workout without putting a lot of stress on joints, making it a good summer activity option for people with certain types of injuries. Swimming outdoors in a natural setting is a great way to enjoy beautiful landscapes, cool off, and have fun, too.

Cycling

Cycling together allows families to see new places while they exercise their legs and take in some fresh air. It’s a great activity for large groups, too. Cycling is also practical. Biking can serve the dual purpose of providing transportation for your family to get to a destination and be a fun activity at the same time.

Outdoor Yoga Classes

Yoga is more popular than ever these days. Outdoor yoga classes are available just about anywhere, from beaches to parks to the tops of mountains. Taking yoga classes that are held outside allows families to get a great workout and spend an hour or so getting some fresh air and sunshine.

Running

With a good pair of running shoes, families can get a top quality workout just about anywhere. Running can be great for your health, and can also provide families with opportunities for competition, socializing or raising money for charity by participating in road races and other organized events.

Standup Paddle Boarding

A relatively new sport, standup paddle boarding, also known as SUP, combines surfing with rowing, resulting in a challenging workout that’s also a lot of fun. And since it’s done on water, it’s a great family activity option for when you’re on vacation. Standup paddle boards can be rented at many beach resorts.

SUP Yoga

Once your family gets the hang of stand up paddle boarding, give SUP yoga a try.  Participants in this challenging combination of yoga and standup paddle boarding do yoga poses on their paddle boards. The classes are led by an instructor and are available in many places that offer standup paddle boarding.

Walking

Believe it or not, walking is one of the healthiest outdoor activities families can do. It’s perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels, and can be done just about anywhere. Taking a family walk is a great way to relieve stress, and it’s adaptable to any schedule, whether you have 15 minutes or an hour.

Tai Chi

A Chinese martial art practice that emphasizes natural movement, tai chi has been popular in Asia for thousands of years. Many communities offer outdoor tai chi classes in parks, and much of the time they are free. Tai chi is low impact, good for people of all ages, and has been shown to boost the immune system.

Snowshoeing

If you want to continue your family’s outdoor activities during the winter, snowshoeing combines the benefits of walking and hiking with the added challenge of walking through snow, which burns more calories and uses different muscle groups than walking or hiking alone. Snowshoes are relatively inexpensive, and unlike skiing, you can learn to snowshoe in less than half an hour.

Always Use Sun Protection

Before taking your family out to do any outdoor activities, remember to always apply sunscreen. If you will be swimming, be sure to reapply sunscreen every hour or so. It’s also a good idea to use an after sun moisturizer when you go back inside to help keep everyone’s skin healthy and comfortable.

 

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The article Fun Outdoor Exercise Ideas to Help Keep Your Family Healthy by LouAnn Moss appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Makeup for Moms: The Top Makeup Essentials Every Mom Needs

by Tiffany Pratt

In 2018 the U.S. beauty industry reached $18.8 billion in sales.

With that much spent on beauty products, don’t you want to be sure you’re getting the best products available?

However, when you’re a mom, it can often feel like you have no time to spend deciding what makeup products are best for you. Heck, you barely even have time to apply the makeup you already own sometimes!

We’ve put together a list of the 10 absolute makeup essentials for every mom, so that you can be sure you’re always stocked up with must-have makeup products. If you’re interested in what makeup products are necessities for every mom, take a look at our list below!

1. The First of Makeup Essentials: Foundation

Foundation is called foundation for a reason—it’s the foundation on which you build the rest of your makeup routine, so you want to make sure you’re finding the perfect fit when it comes to this product.

Foundations can be a bit tricky, but with a bit of trial and error you’ll find one that matches all your needs. You can get foundations in liquid forms, sticks, and even powders nowadays.

Foundation is important for creating a smooth finish and hiding any uneven skin texture or wrinkles, which can be something that may be important to moms as they get older.

2. Botanical Oils

Botanical oils have completely changed the way I do makeup, and they can revolutionize your beauty routine as well!

Botanical oils calm the skin and hydrate it, all while often having nice smells and a refreshing feel. There are a variety of different oils you can choose from, depending on any effects you may desire from them.

Tea tree, for example, is good for spot treating any acne or inflammation and can be dabbed on before makeup application because it will dry without leaving any residue.

My personal favorite is rosehip oil. I apply it in the morning in place of a moisturizer, and it works wonders. It softens my skin and makes makeup application, especially primer and foundation, so much smoother and easier. I can’t recommend it enough!

3. Under-Eye Concealer

I’m sure as mom, you’re probably not getting as much sleep as you’d like to. As much as we all love our kiddos, they can make getting rest at night difficult at times.

That’s why under-eye concealer is a makeup essential for any mom. You can get it in a variety of textures, from light weight to a more full coverage.

It’s important to get a concealer specifically for the under-eyes because the skin there is more tender and prone to breaking, which is what causes dark circles underneath the eyes to begin with. Under-eye concealers are tailored to be gentler to avoid any skin breakage that could occur with a normal concealer.

4. An Easy Go-To: Mascara

This one should be a basic in any mom’s makeup collection, but if it’s not in yours yet, go out and get yourself some mascara!

Mascara is such an easy way to define your eyes.

Not to mention, there are so many different kinds of mascara. Want longer lashes? There’s a mascara for that. Want chunky eyelashes? There’s a mascara for that. Want cat-eye eyelashes? There’s a mascara for that!

If you’re feeling drained from mom duties, wearing mascara is an easy way to bring some life to your face. Plus, it only takes like 2 minutes to apply!

5. BB Cream

Some days you may feel like you don’t have time to put on a full face of foundation.

That’s where BB cream comes in.

A BB cream will provide you with moisturizing, a bit of color, and a whole lot of extra time!

BB creams rub in like a lotion or primer would, but most offer a much more light-weight feel than foundations and are less time consuming to even out. Many BB creams also include SPF—double win!

6. Foundation Brush

A good foundation brush is key to clean and smooth foundation application. Though it might be tempting to use your fingers to spread foundation, it can transfer a lot of oils and bacteria present on your finger tips.

As a mom, chances are you’ve dealt with your kiddos rummaging through your makeup. In that case, buy a few cheap brushes from the dollar tree for when they want to play makeup with you. You get to use your nice brushes, but you still have a cute little set for your children to play with!

7. A Must: Translucent Powder

I recently got my own mom obsessed with translucent powder, and I am thankful I did!

Translucent powder is perfect for creating a matte finish after you apply your foundation without adding any extra color. If you’re running late and only have time to apply moisturizer and not foundation, this powder is still perfect to dab on in order to control shine during the day.

8. Brow Gel

I don’t know why they say eyes are the window to the soul—it’s definitely your eyebrows! They are one of the most expressive parts of your face, and how you style them can totally change how your makeup looks.

My favorite item for the past few years has been my brow gel because it fills in my eyebrows well, and I don’t have to go through the pain of filling them in with pencil.

If you’re going for a more natural look (and let’s face it, when you’re in mom-mode, you usually don’t have time for glam looks), a brow gel is going to be your best friend.

9. Tweezers

If you don’t have time to fill in your brows, make sure you have a pair of tweezers handy to make sure they’re in tip-top shape otherwise!

Even a single hair can throw off the dynamic of your brow, which makes tweezers one of our go-to makeup basics.

Remember when tweezing though: your eyebrows are sisters, not twins! They don’t have to be identical, and trying to get them exactly the same will only lead to a lot of frustration!

10. Makeup Essential: Lip Stains

If you haven’t become a lip stain fan yet, now’s the time! Lip stains are super great for moms on the go! You can apply at the start of the day and have long-lasting color throughout the day. No reapplication or constant touch ups necessary!

There are tons of different lip stains available, from glossy to matte, so you can definitely find one that fits your preferences.

 Have Fun!

Makeup shouldn’t be a chore. It’s meant to make you feel good about yourself, whether that means spending an hour on it every day or only 5 minutes!

I know that being a mom can make fitting makeup into your already busy schedule pretty difficult, but hopefully these makeup essentials will make your makeup routine a bit easier every day!

Check out the rest of our website for more mom-friendly articles and discussions!

 

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The article Makeup for Moms: The Top Makeup Essentials Every Mom Needs by Tiffany Pratt appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Driving With Kids in the Car?: The Top Tips for Preventing Car Accidents

by Cascia Talbert

The leading cause of death in children is motor vehicle accidents.

In 2016, 723 children died as a result of a vehicle accident and more than 128,000 were injured. When you’re driving with your children you should always drive as safely as possible.

Driving with kids can be a major distraction. To make sure you drive safely, keep reading to discover car accident prevention tips.

1. Eliminate Distractions

The number one tip for avoiding bad car wrecks is eliminating distractions.

Most people know to put away their cell phones and skip the drive-thru while transporting their children. But, the children themselves can be just as distracting.

We know children like to talk but teach your children that driving is a quiet time. Encourage them to hold their questions and comments until you get to a destination. If your child can write, keep a notebook in the car for them to record these thoughts so they don’t feel ignored while in the car.

And if your children are older, have them listen to music or videos with headphones.

The two seconds you take your eyes off the road to look at them while talking is enough time to cause a deathly mistake.

2. Never Drive Tired

Experts say that driving tired is just as dangerous as driving drunk.

We know that you would never get behind the wheel with your children while drunk — so why would you do it while tired? When you’re tired, your reaction time, decision-making skills, depth perception, and more are impacted.

Instead of driving while tired, call on a friend or family member. Explain your issue and express how you’re concerned about the safety of your children. We bet you have a support system ready to step in and offer a ride!

3. Maintain Your Vehicle

Another great tip to avoid car crashing is properly maintaining your vehicle.

Get in the habit of servicing your car at least once a year. This involves taking your vehicle to your preferred mechanic and having them check that everything is operating as it should. Odds are, they’ll catch a serious issue with your car before you do.

By staying on top of vehicle maintenance, you lower the chances of a malfunction leaving you stranded or in an accident.

4. Drive Defensively

There are many things you can do to make sure you’re driving as safely as possible — but what about all the other drivers on the road?

You can only control your own driving ability, but there are a few things you can do to drive defensively. Always be aware of the vehicles around you and expect the worst from them. If you’re driving near a car that you notice exhibiting dangerous behavior, either slow down or change your direction of travel to avoid them.

If you cannot avoid an accident as a result of another bad driver, avoid these mistakes to legally protect your family.

5. Keep Proper Distance

Another tip for driving defensively is to always keep a proper distance.

Instead of trying to calculate the physical distance between you and a vehicle, use the two-second rule. Once the vehicle in front of you passes a sign or landmark, you should pass that same marker at least two seconds after them. If you pass quicker than that, you’re traveling too close.

By keeping the proper distance between you and the vehicle in front of you, you ensure your ability to stop quickly and avoid a rear-end collision.

6. Always Look Again

A second glance can be all that stands between you and your children ending up in a vehicle accident.

Take seconds to look again whenever you come to an intersection. Even if you have the green light or the right-of-way at a stop sign, you never know if other drivers on the road are paying attention or following the law. If a vehicle looks like they may not be slowing down, just wait to make sure — we promise it’s better to get to your destination late than in an ambulance.

We also suggest waiting a few seconds after your light turns green before proceeding through an intersection. Drivers often run red lights when in a hurry or distracted.

7. Pay Special Attention in School Zones

Darting children on crosswalks, pick-up lines, and school buses are all sources of danger opportunities in school zones. There are reasons that school zones have lower speed limits — because they’re often unpredictable.

If you’re dropping your kids off or picking them up from school, be extra careful when driving. Use all the above tips and put your mom brain on high-alert. Even though it may seem like any other Tuesday drop-off, you never know what’s going to happen.

Always keep an eye on children walking near or around your vehicle. And never, ever drive around a school bus or a stopped vehicle dropping off children. Wait the extra few seconds it takes for the vehicle to begin moving to ensure the safety of everyone around you.

Also, talk to your children about pedestrian safety. Teach them to always look both ways and to never play near a roadway.

More Mom Tips Beyond Accident Prevention

With these tips, you’re well on your way to accident prevention.

But even the most cautious driver can still find themselves in a wreck. To protect against the uncertainty of motor vehicles, make sure that your child is always properly restrained.

Bookmark Healthy Moms Magazine for all the best parenting and child health content. Be a part of our online community for moms just like you.

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The article Driving With Kids in the Car?: The Top Tips for Preventing Car Accidents by Cascia Talbert appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Elevate Your Cooking: The Top Kitchen Cookware Essentials

by Tammy Jones

While there are a ton of different kitchen tools that you can buy, most are designed to make specific tasks easier. They are not strictly necessary for you to have. In fact, there are only a few essential things that everyone needs in their kitchen.

The following are the essential pieces of kitchen cookware and utensils that you should invest your money in. Once you have a high quality core set that you know how to use well, you can start looking at expanding your collection with other, specialized pieces.

Essential Kitchen Cookware: Skillets and Pans

Of course, when you’re talking about kitchen gear, you need to talk about pans. These are your primary cooking vehicles, and having high quality pans is essential to proper preparation of food.

One of the first things that you should buy is a skillet or frying pan. You can cook most everything in these, but you’ll want to use them for meats and veggies (or even for sauces, in a pinch!)

There are two types of skillets that you can choose from. Cast iron pans are heavyweight pans that provide even heating, but they require specific maintenance. You’ll have to season them through continued use of butter and oils to make them non-stick.

This means you need to clean your cast iron pan without soap, because soap will remove the seasoning. This means that food can become stuck on and can take a lot of effort to clean.

In comparison, you can choose to buy a ceramic non-stick pan. Ceramic cookware doesn’t have the same health risks as regular Teflon non-stick cookware, since it is made completely out of clay and organic materials – no chemicals. Discover more about ceramic nonstick pans here.

Roasting Pan

While a skillet is good for cooking one or two meals at once, depending on its size, you need something else for entertaining. You can use a roasting pan for turkeys, hams, and other large pieces of meat.

You can get roasting pans in all sorts of different materials, but more often than not aluminum is the way to go. While steel and cast iron pans are a bit more durable, they are harder to clean and heavier, which can make lifting them out of the oven harder.

Stay away from copper, which is significantly more expensive and takes quite a bit of work to keep clean. Stainless steel and other light metals also work.

Look for models that have a rack that you can use to collect the drippings from roasted meat to make gravy. You should also pay attention to the handles and weight (as already mentioned). A roasting pan is supposed to make cooking large amounts of food easier, not turn cooking into an upper body workout.

Stock Pot

Stock pots are also ideal for cooking large amounts of food at once, but are better suited for soups, stews, or even pasta. You’ll want as large of a stock pot that you can fit into your kitchen, since it will be used to create a ton of food at once.

Look for dishwasher safe stock pots, since that will make cleanup much easier for you. You’ll also want large handles that you are able to pick up while wearing oven mitts or some other form of padding, since often the entire surface of your stock pot will become too hot to touch.

If you’re looking for a high quality stock pot, it may be worth considering a Dutch oven instead. Dutch ovens are heavy, lidded ceramic or cast iron pots that you can put on a stovetop or in an oven. They are simple to clean and often are better at providing heat evenly than thinner aluminum or stainless steel stock pots.

Chef’s Knife

While not particularly dishware, it would be a mistake to not mention a proper cooking knife when talking about kitchen essentials. You don’t need a whole set of knives of various sizes designed for specific cuts. Instead, you can buy a general purpose chef’s knife that you can use for everything – as long as it is high enough quality.

There are a bunch of different manufacturers out there, and every chef will have their favorite. However, generally speaking, you’ll want to look for a knife made by an American, French, German, or Japanese firm.

Avoid stamped knives, which can lose their edge faster over time. Forged or folded metal knives are thicker, heavier duty, and can be sharpened more times as a result.

You should also always look for full-tang knives. The tang is the part of the blade that goes into the handle. A full tang means that the blade extends all the way back to the end of the handle, and the knife blade and handle cannot separate.

Choosing the Best Kitchen Cookware

Now that you know the top four things that you should prioritize when stocking your kitchen, you can begin the process of looking through reviews and comparing brands. However, you should still keep looking at other pieces as well. While these are the bare essentials, a properly stocked kitchen will have other pots, pans, and utensils.

For instance, while you can make sauces in a cast iron skillet, it’s much easier (and takes less cleaning) to do so in a proper saucepan. Further, having one knife is a good idea, but having two can be convenient if there are multiple people in your home who cook.

For more information about kitchen cookware, look through our food and drink and family life blogs.

 

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The article Elevate Your Cooking: The Top Kitchen Cookware Essentials by Tammy Jones appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

A Complete List of the Healthiest Fish to Eat

by LouAnn Moss

Are you aware that you should eat fish at least twice a week?

If you’re struggling to meet this quota, don’t fret. About 80-90 percent of avid fish eaters are also having trouble doing so. For most people, the biggest issue is actually finding healthy fish, especially due to the increase in mercury contamination.

Fortunately for you, we have a complete list of some of the healthiest fish to eat and the nutrients they provide to our bodies. If you’re interested in improving your health, read on to know the best fish to buy.

1. Sardines

Small and inexpensive as they are, sardines pack more omega-3 fatty acids than tuna and salmon. They’re especially high in other minerals like calcium, selenium, and iron. They’re also naturally high in Vitamin D and Vitamin B-12.

Sardines make an excellent choice for pregnant women, older adults, lactose intolerant individuals, and even heart attack survivors. You can buy them fresh from farmer’s markets or canned from local stores.

2. Mackerel

Mackerel is not only high in proteins but also omega-3 fatty acids and micronutrients. Regular consumption of this oily fish can help:

Lower high blood pressure and cholesterol
Keep bones strong and healthy
Minimize the waistline
Protect against depression

While you can buy it canned or fresh, it’s always better to go for the smaller varieties like Spanish or Atlantic mackerel. They contain lower mercury levels than the larger types. Also, check labels before you buy smoked or pickled mackerel to ensure they don’t have high sodium levels.

3. Salmon

Eating fatty fish like salmon every week can bring several health benefits. Compared to farm-fished salmon, wild caught salmon is richer in omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients like calcium and Vitamin D. This is because wild caught salmon is found it’s natural habitat, hence, less exposed to contaminants and processed fish food.

4. Rainbow Trout

The colorful, patterned trout is another delicious oily fish you could include in your diet. Just like salmon, it’s a great source of protein and omega-3 content. It’s also very low in fat, making it the best fish for weight loss.

Still, there are some moderate concerns about consuming trout because of mercury contamination. As a result, the U.S. government has set strict regulations limiting the number of chemicals farmers can use in trout farming. This has helped lower mercury levels in this fish, making the farmed variety a safer and healthier choice than the wild species.

5. Halibut

For all those people who don’t enjoy the typical fish, Pacific Halibut could be an ideal choice to add to your diet. The halibut is a firm, white fish with a rather mild flavor. It’s an excellent source of selenium, which when taken in small amounts offers a lot of health benefits to the body.

In addition, it’s also a good source of several other micronutrients such as phosphorus, magnesium, Vitamin B6, and B12. The only concern about the halibut fish is that it matures slowly, thus making it susceptible to overfishing. To help curb this issue, many halibut fish farms and been established around the country.

6. Tuna

In as much as tuna is a favorite option for most fish lovers, it’s highly recommendable that you eat it in moderation for health reasons. Most species of tuna have high mercury content. Also, they get extremely overfished.

To be on the safe side, limit your intake of yellowfin, ahi tuna, and albacore. Instead, opt for smaller species like the skipjack. These small tuna fish have a lower mercury level and they’ll still provide you with the essential benefits you need.

7. Oysters

These unusually delicious molluscs have several unique nutrients, which offer a range of health benefits. Some of these benefits include:

Boosting metabolism
Lowering cholesterol levels
Improving immune functions
Aiding in wound healing
Reducing blood pressure, and
Promoting healthy growth

Besides being useful to our bodies, oysters are also good for the environment. The shells are an excellent source of calcium, which when used in the garden can help build strong plant barks as well as balance the soil pH.

They also help other fish to catch food by acting as natural reefs. While shopping for oysters, just beware of raw warm water shellfish as they sometimes contain bacteria, which cause illnesses.

8. Herring

This small silver-colored fish is one of the most affordable and healthiest fish you can add to your diet.

For starters, herring is an excellent source of vitamin D. For people who don’t get enough sunlight, herring could be an ideal solution to keep you from getting diseases like diabetes and multiple sclerosis.

Herring is also loaded with omega-3 content, which can help prevent heart disease and ensure proper brain functioning. Another advantage of herring is that it contains minimal mercury content, making it one of the cleanest and safest ocean fish to eat

9. Cod

Like most of the other fish on this list, cod is also naturally rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

It’s an excellent source of vitamin B-12, niacin, and phosphorus. Apart from providing essential nutrients, codfish is low in fat, making it an ideal choice for all those trying to lose weight.

If anything, cod is one of the few fish with low mercury contaminants. You can, therefore, consume it without risking your health.

Get the Healthiest Fish to Eat for Better Health

Now that you’re aware of some of the healthiest fish to eat, don’t hesitate to try them out. Consuming different fish several times in the week can provide the nutrients required for a well-balanced diet.

If you’re breastfeeding, pregnant or you’ve got a medical condition, make sure to consult with your physician first.

For more healthy living articles, browse our mom blog.

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The article A Complete List of the Healthiest Fish to Eat by LouAnn Moss appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

New Mom Woes: How to Look Less Tired When You’ve Gotten No Sleep

by Tiffany Pratt

With a newborn, your daily schedule is often unpredictable. Between the middle of the night crying attacks and mom guilt, it can be pretty tricky to achieve a full night’s rest.

Sometimes, sleeping for a full eight hours becomes a very distant memory for many new moms.

The reality is, life doesn’t stop because you’ve haven’t gotten a full night’s rest. In fact, many new moms have to master the concept of how to look less tired when they’re running on fumes.

If you haven’t mastered the art of how to look less tired, don’t worry. In this post, we are going to explore some of the best-kept secrets on how to appear bright-eyed and bushy-tailed after an uneventful night of no sleep.

Quick Tips For How To Look Less Tired

Everyone is different, so it is only natural for us to explore a wide range of tips to help combat tired eyes. Aside from the usual, “get more sleep,” we are going to explore some of the best ways to kick tired eyes to the curve and appear more awake after a restless night.

Read here for more tips and tricks on how to look less tired.

Try Caffeine Eye Cream

Did you know caffeine is useful for more than just keeping you awake after a long night of minimal sleep?

Caffeine can also be used as a topical solution to brighten tired, dull under eyes. Research shows that the active ingredients in caffeine helps shrink blood vessels, reduces swelling, and even minimizes the appearance of dark circles.

Try This Mascara Trick

Like many makeup wearers, it’s almost customary to apply mascara to both the bottom and top lashes; this effect makes the eyes bolder. However, when you’re tired, the last thing you want to do is draw attention to bags or dark circles. To combat this, try only applying mascara to your top lashes.

It actually has the opposite effect of applying mascara to both the bottom and top lashes. It pulls the focus to the top of the lashes, making your eyes appear brighter and more alert.

Don’t Forget To Hydrate

Drinking water can help you look and feel your best. Any form of dehydration can have effects on your sleeping cycle. Consider the fact that you aren’t consuming water for a full eight hours a day as your sleep. If you aren’t drinking water prior to sleep, the amount of time you’re going without water increases.

If you have a habit of consuming too much water prior to your bedtime and waking up to use the bathroom, try consuming less water before settling down for the night.

Take a Shower

Depending on your preference, a cold or warm shower can help you feel more awake and look less tired. A warm shower may help flush out your eyes and bring some color back to your face after a night of bad sleep.

Try a Bright Colored Lipstick

A flattering colored lipstick can do wonders for tired moms. Visit your local beauty counter and try on a few different shades to find the perfect color for your complexion.

Do a Quick Stretching Exercise in the Morning

Nothing is better than getting your blood circulating with a little exercise. Stretching is a low impact, relaxing way to get your blood circulating in the morning. Getting in a quick workout or easy movement in the morning can help you look more awake.

Not to mention, stretching is one of the best ways to get out any kinks or aches and pains you may have woken up with. If stretching isn’t for you, try going on a short walk in the morning or doing a quality at home work out.

When in Doubt, Conceal It

Whether you’re a make-up everyday kind of gal or reserve it for special occasions, having the perfect shade of concealer in your arsenal is beneficial for multiple reasons.

In this case, one of those benefits is to help conceal tired eyes in the morning. Be sure to find a shade that blends seamlessly with your skin tone. Even finding a warmer shade can be beneficial in hiding red or dull skin after a long night.

If you aren’t sure what shade is right for you, be sure to talk to one of the beauty specialists at one of your local make-up stores.

Bring on the Shine with Your Favorite Jewelry

There is nothing an amazing pair of earrings or a statement neckless won’t fix. Try pairing your outfit with your favorite piece of jewelry. This trick works by drawing eyes to your jewelry rather than your tired eyes.

Prioritize Sleep

Yes, we know this is easier said than done. Whether you have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, it is important to prioritize sleep for your health and overall wellbeing.

Try creating a nighttime routine that promotes relaxation and calmness. This can include journaling, drinking nighttime tea, lighting a relaxing candle, introducing aromatherapy, or following a guided meditation.

Creating and staying true to a nighttime routine can help put your mind at ease and get some much needed quality sleep.

What Works Best For You?

Being a new mom is a joyous and sometimes challenging occasion. Sometimes it takes a little finesse to get you to look and feel your best.

Don’t be afraid to try one or more of the helpful tips we’ve listed above. The art of how to look less tired is just that, an art. So be sure to find a routine that works best for your needs.

If you’re searching for more tips and tricks for new moms, be sure to check out our blog posts.

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The article New Mom Woes: How to Look Less Tired When You’ve Gotten No Sleep by Tiffany Pratt appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.