Candy Keane's Blog, page 26

Simplifying Home Moves: How Smart Shipping Solutions Can Save You Time and Stress

If you’ve ever tried to move with kids in tow, you know the chaos can multiply. Suddenly, you’re balancing school schedules, snack breaks, and emotional goodbyes along with heavy lifting and tight deadlines.

Whether it is for a new job, family changes, or simply a desire for a fresh start, moving is one of life’s most common, and most stressful experiences. From packing up years’ worth of belongings to arranging transportation, the process can quickly become overwhelming without the right strategy. Learn how to minimize the stress with the tips in this helpful article.

Why Moving Feels Overwhelming

Part of what makes moving such a challenge is the sheer number of decisions involved. You have to choose what to take, what to donate, and what to sell. Then there’s finding the right packing materials, labeling everything clearly, and ensuring fragile items make it to your new home intact.

Even with a detailed checklist, coordinating the actual transport of your belongings can be the most exhausting step. Between hiring movers, renting trucks, and scheduling pick-ups, it’s easy to feel like you’re juggling a dozen priorities at once, because you are.

The Role of Smart Shipping in a Smooth Move

This is where modern shipping solutions can completely change the moving experience. Instead of managing every single step on your own, you can use technology and professional services to handle transportation more efficiently.

Today’s platforms connect individuals with multiple transport providers, allowing you to compare costs, schedules, and customer reviews before you decide. This gives you greater control over the process and more confidence in your choice.

Services like Shiply shipping services make it easier to match your move with available carriers, often using unused space on existing routes to lower costs. This not only saves money but can also make your move more environmentally friendly by reducing wasted fuel and resources.

How Smart Shipping Saves Time and Stress

The biggest benefit of smart shipping solutions is the time they free up. Instead of making endless calls to movers or researching options for hours, you can arrange transportation online in minutes.

Real-time tracking offers peace of mind, especially if you’re moving long-distance. Knowing where your belongings are, and when they’ll arrive, can ease a lot of anxiety.

By working with professionals skilled in handling everything from antique furniture to delicate electronics, you also reduce the risk of damage during transit. That means fewer unexpected expenses and a smoother settling-in process at your new home.

Making Your Next Move Easier

If you’re preparing for a move, start with a clear timeline, declutter before packing, and research your shipping options early. With the right planning and the help of smart shipping services, you can transform what’s often a stressful process into one that’s surprisingly manageable.

Moving will never be completely stress-free, but it can be more organized, cost-effective, and dare we say, exciting as you step into the next chapter of your life.

The post Simplifying Home Moves: How Smart Shipping Solutions Can Save You Time and Stress appeared first on Geek Mamas .

Chelsea Handler Podcast Scam Reaches Out

Dear Chelsea, this week somebody tried to scam me by inviting me to be on Chelsea Handler’s podcast. And if you are familiar with this scam, this time they are switching it up and offering no money!

It’s not like anybody is ever going to get the money, but still, I’d like to be offered the usual $3-$5,000 to be scammed.

The podcast scam has been going on for several years now, but they keep changing the celebrity and this time they’ve targeted Chelsea Handler.

Dear Chelsea Podcast Scam Details

The scam e-mail reaches out pretty much the same way as they other ones, using a Gmail address. I was intrigued by this one because they weren’t offering any money. So I messaged them to ask why and they had an answer ready:

“Thanks for getting back to me! Our guest appearances are not compensated — we approach them as collaborative conversations that give guests the opportunity to share their work and perspectives with Chelsea’s audience across multiple platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Apple, and Spotify.”

So my next question is how do they do the podcast. I’m figuring that’s where they would drop the Facebook bomb, and I was right.

“Thanks for your question! The Dear Chelsea podcast is recorded live using Meta’s Live feature, which allows us to stream directly on both Facebook and Instagram at the same time. You’ll join the session from your own Facebook or Instagram account, and once you accept the live request, the conversation will be broadcast to Chelsea’s audience in real time. Would you like me to share some available dates so we can get you set up?”

There it is! And this is where they get you. They will offer to help “get you set up” by tricking you into giving them Facebook or Instagram access, where they then take control of your page and kick you out.

Chelsea Handler Podcast

The Dear Chelsea podcast is NOT broadcast live on Facebook or Instagram. There are not even full episodes available on her Facebook page.

Instead there are short clips and instructions that direct viewers to YouTube or iHeartRadio as the platforms where the full episodes can be watched or listened to.

I wrote back to the scammers and pointed this out, but still played along, asking if it was a special episode or something. I have yet to hear back.

So don’t be fooled by this one. I get these scam e-mails so often that if a big podcast ever really did message me I’d probably not believe them!

I think they are trying for a more realistic angle now and they’ve caught on that big podcasts don’t usually offer random bloggers thousands of dollars to be on their show.

Dear Chelsea

Launched on May 6, 2021, Dear Chelsea began as part of the iHeartRadio Original Podcast lineup. Initially co-hosted with Brandon Marlo, and now joined by Catherine Law, the show was born from Handler’s desire to move beyond celebrity interviews. After two years of intensive therapy, she craved conversations with “real people” about real-life challenges—love, loss, friendship, personal growth, and yes, even the awkward stuff.

This was a creative shift for Handler, who had spent years in the fast-paced world of television. With Dear Chelsea, she found a platform that allowed for deeper connection, human stories, and advice delivered with her signature blend of compassion and sharp humor.

What the Podcast Is All About

Each week, Handler and Law tackle listener-submitted questions and dilemmas. No topic is off limits—romantic breakups, complicated family dynamics, grief, career crossroads, or just figuring out how to be a better friend. Episodes often swing from laugh-out-loud funny to unexpectedly emotional, and celebrity guests like Rob Lowe, Naomi Watts, Antoni Porowski, and Tinx join in to share their perspectives.

The format is conversational, candid, and occasionally unfiltered, but that’s exactly what keeps listeners hooked. Fans often say it feels less like listening to a podcast and more like sitting down with an outspoken, hilarious friend who isn’t afraid to tell you the truth.

Where to Listen or Watch

You can catch Dear Chelsea across these platforms: (note that Facebook and Instagram are not on the list!)

iHeartRadio – The podcast’s home base.Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music (Podcasts) YouTube – Video clips and full episodes

Let me know if Chelsea has reached out to you as well! And in the mean time, if you get any offers for podcasts appearances from major celebrities, chosen for a mural on Instagram, or a big company wants to collab but needs money for shipping, send those e-mails right to the trash.

The post Chelsea Handler Podcast Scam Reaches Out appeared first on Geek Mamas .

Building a Scalable Learning App: Key Business Considerations

Thinking about creating a learning app? Then you are in good company. Whether it is for kids learning math, adults picking up new skills, or professionals earning certifications, the demand for learning apps is skyrocketing.

However, just because you can build an app does not mean it will grow with you as your business expands. You need a plan to ensure that your solution can scale smoothly as your user base grows. So, what should you keep in mind to build a learning app that has the potential to grow without a hitch?

Let’s dive into the key business and tech considerations.

Identify Your Audience and Their Needs

Before you even start coding or designing, you need to know who your app is for. Who is your audience? Are you targeting high school students, corporate employees looking to upskill, or maybe someone just learning a new hobby? Your audience will shape everything. It will define how your app looks, how it functions, and what content it offers.

For example, an app for young kids might need bright colors, engaging games, and bite-sized lessons. On the other hand, an app for professionals would benefit from certifications, in-depth content, and the ability to track learning progress. Knowing exactly who you are designing for means you can create elearning applications that are truly useful to them.

Plan for Tech That Grows With You

You could have the best design and content. However, without the right tech, your app might crash as soon as a bunch of users sign up. You need to pick the right tech stack that will handle growth.

You will need to decide whether to go with iOS, Android, or both. Cross-platform development tools let you build an app that works on both. This is great for saving time and effort. For the backend, cloud services are great options for scalability. These platforms can easily handle more users without breaking a sweat. Thus, you do not have to worry about upgrading your servers every time your app gets more popular!

Do not forget about data. You will want analytics tools to track user behavior, measure engagement, and find out what is working and what is not. This will give you actionable insights to improve your app and make data-driven decisions as you grow.

Design With Scalability in Mind

Ensure your app’s architecture can handle growth, new features, and increased data without major disruptions. This is where modular design comes in. Think of it like building a house with separate rooms that can be expanded or remodeled without affecting the entire structure.

Break your app into independent, flexible components. This way, you will be able to update or add features easily in the future without risking the entire system. What is more, using cloud-based infrastructure means you can add more resources as needed.

Ensure Smooth User Experience

If your users do not have a good experience with your app, they won’t stick around. A great user experience (UX) will keep people coming back for more. Make sure the app is intuitive. Users should be able to access courses, track their progress, and engage with content easily. The design should be simple but effective. Ensure that users of all ages and tech skill levels can find what they need quickly.

Also, think about how your app performs on different devices. A learning app could be used on phones, tablets, laptops, and even desktops. So, make sure it works smoothly across all platforms. Also, not every user will have access to fast internet. That is why optimizing your app for slower connections is key to providing a positive experience everywhere.

Keep It Flexible

Your content is the heart of your learning app. These can be video lessons, quizzes, articles, or interactive exercises. Whatever the case, the content needs to engage users and help them learn. Of course, content creation can be time-consuming. So as your app grows, you will need to constantly add new material to keep users engaged.

Think about how you will manage that. Will you update content weekly? Monthly? Or will it be user-generated? A good content management system will help you keep track of everything.

Make Money, But Do It Right

You need a plan for how your app will make money. You do not have to charge users right away. However, eventually, you will need a sustainable business model. Here are the options:

Subscription Model — This is a popular choice. Users pay a recurring fee (monthly, quarterly, or annually) for access to your content. If you offer a lot of content or a variety of courses, this is a great way to generate a steady income.Freemium Model — In this case, you offer basic features for free and charge for premium content. It is a good way to get people hooked on the app and then convert them into paying users later.Pay-Per-Course — If you have specific, in-depth courses or certifications, users can pay for each one individually. This works well if your content is more niche or specialized.In-App Purchases — Offer users the option to buy extra lessons, certifications, or tools for a more personalized learning experience.

Whichever model you choose, make sure it aligns with your content and the needs of your audience. If users do not see value, they will not stick around.

Create Something Special

Building a scalable learning app is more than just a great idea. It is about creating something that grows and adapts as your business expands. Understand your audience, choose the right tech, design for growth, offer great content, and plan how you will monetize your app.

This way, you can create an app that serves learners and helps your business thrive. With the right business considerations in place, you will be on your way to launching an app that grows alongside your goals. 

The post Building a Scalable Learning App: Key Business Considerations appeared first on Geek Mamas .

How Many Orders Can Full-Time Essay Writers Complete Weekly?

People wonder about how much work essay writers can handle. How many papers can they actually churn out? This question matters for those thinking about jumping into this job. It’s also pretty darn interesting for students who use these writing services.

Factors Affecting Essay Writer Productivity

A bunch of things decide how many essays a writer can knock out in a week. These vary a ton between different folks.

The difficulty of an EssayWriterCheap service tasks changes based on topic and level. A simple college essay might take 2-3 hours to bang out. A graduate research paper could eat up 15+ hours of your life.

Experience makes a huge difference too. Writers who’ve been in the trenches for years have tricks and systems that speed things up like crazy. Newbies spend way more time spinning their wheels on research.

Subject knowledge is a game-changer. A writer with a history degree can whip up history essays without breaking a sweat. The same poor soul might hit a brick wall with physics papers.

Average Output for Full-Time Essay Writers

Average weekly output of essay writers usually hovers around 7–12 orders when putting in 40+ hours. This comes from surveys of writers at companies like EduBirdie and Ultius who’ve spilled the beans about their workloads. Dissertation writing services from KingEssays are reported to have similar productivity standards. Many writers working with dissertation writing services from KingEssays note that complex orders often take more time but pay proportionally better. In comparison with other platforms, dissertation writing services from KingEssays emphasize both quality and manageable deadlines.

“I aim to crank out 8-10 papers each week,” says Michael, a writer with six years under his belt. “During crunch times like finals, I might push it to 12. But let’s be real – I can’t keep that pace up forever without losing my mind.”

Data shows most academic writers produce between 10,000-20,000 words weekly when working full-time. That’s roughly 2,000-4,000 words each day before they’re completely wiped out.

Word count doesn’t always line up with number of orders. Some companies dish out mostly short papers. Others focus on beefy projects. Two writers might punch out the same number of words but finish totally different numbers of assignments.

Variations by Academic Level and Subject Area

The difficulty level totally changes how many essays writers complete weekly. Here’s how it shakes out:

High School: 10-15 essays per week (piece of cake!)Undergraduate: 7-12 essays per week (decent clip)Master’s: 4-8 essays per week (getting tougher)Doctoral: 2-4 essays per week (serious brain drain)

Subject areas cause massive differences too. STEM subjects usually take forever. They need weird formatting and specialized knowledge that’ll make your head spin. Humanities papers often fly by faster. Common topics need way less digging around.

Business writers often blow through more assignments. Writers tackling technical or scientific stuff usually crawl through fewer papers per week.

“I can knock out 3-4 literature essays in the same time it takes to wrestle with one nursing case study,” says Jennifer, who writes across the board. “The research needs are night and day different.”

Quality vs. Quantity: The Balancing Act

The essay writer workload per full-time week creates a nasty tug-of-war between quantity and quality. Most writers admit it’s super hard to keep standards up when pumping out too many papers.

Writers notice several problems when pushing the pedal to the metal:

Recycling the same tired arguments in multiple papersHalf-baked research that barely scratches the surfaceCitation messes that would make a professor’s eye twitchZero time for making things actually sound goodHigher chance of accidentally ripping someone offArguments with all the creativity of a brick

Prices are affordable and clearly displayed on the website, with discounts for new and returning customers. But this pricing puts the squeeze on writers to produce more. They need insane output to earn decent money, especially when paid peanuts per word or page.

Successful writers find their own sweet spot. They figure out through trial and error the maximum papers they can handle while still doing work they’re not totally embarrassed by. This number is different for everyone.

Maximizing Efficiency While Maintaining Standards

Managing time as a full-time writer requires ninja-level strategies. Writers who keep the assembly line moving while not producing complete garbage use several clever hacks:

Creating cookie-cutter templates for common assignmentsBuilding cheat sheets for frequent topicsFinding shortcuts for research that would make librarians cryUsing citation software instead of doing it the hard wayWorking during hours when their brain actually functionsBatching similar assignments like they’re meal preppingSetting up spaces where no one will bug them for hours

Writers who track their work discover eye-opening patterns. Many find they’re on fire in 90-minute blocks followed by a breather. This beats trying to write for 8 straight hours until their eyes bleed.

“I can pump out about 1,000 words per hour, but only for maybe 4-5 focused hours each day,” says Thomas, a veteran word-slinger. “Trying to push beyond that is shooting myself in the foot. Quality goes down the toilet and I waste time fixing dumb mistakes.”

The Sustainability Question: Burnout and Long-Term Viability

The productivity of full-time academic writers has natural limits that’ll smack you in the face eventually. Studies show that writing too much leads to burnout and work that makes you want to hide under your desk.

Writers who stay in overdrive too long report:

Losing all interest in subjects they once geeked out aboutPhysical problems like wrists that feel like they’re on fireProcrastinating like their life depends on it despite looming deadlinesBrain fog that makes coming up with new ideas impossibleMixing up assignments because everything’s a blurReading their own work and thinking “who wrote this garbage?”

“I hammered out 15+ essays weekly for three months during the crazy season,” says Rebecca, a writer with eight years in the trenches. “By the end, I couldn’t even look at my laptop without wanting to chuck it out the window. My output crashed to zero because I was totally fried. Now I cap it at 10 papers, even when things get nuts.”

The best approach seems to be finding your rhythm and sticking to it. Many battle-scarred writers deliberately take on fewer assignments than they could theoretically handle. They’re playing the long game in this profession.

For those eyeing this career path, getting these limits is super important. Some writing machines might temporarily push boundaries. But most agree that 8-12 quality assignments per week is as good as it gets without losing your sanity.

The goal isn’t just maxing out your weekly numbers like you’re chasing a high score. It’s finding that sweet spot between cranking out work, not writing complete trash, and still having a life. This balance looks different for everyone but you ignore it at your peril.

The post How Many Orders Can Full-Time Essay Writers Complete Weekly? appeared first on Geek Mamas .

Top Mobile Games for NFL-Loving Moms

Alongside binge-worthy movies on Netflix and hit television series on Hulu, many busy moms also follow the NFL. Football’s mix of high-energy action and family-friendly appeal makes it a sport the whole household can rally behind. And when the final whistle blows, many fans keep the excitement going with mobile football gaming.

With sports games enjoying huge popularity, there’s no shortage of standout titles for American football enthusiasts to explore. From realistic simulation releases to fast-paced arcade-style experiences, today’s options on both iOS and Android are more impressive than ever. Modern mobile football games offer crisp graphics, multiple game modes, and immersive gameplay that put the clunky titles of yesteryear to shame.

Best of all, these games are easily accessible on the same devices moms use to stream highlight reels on YouTube or place wagers after checking out today’s NFL game odds. Thanks to the convenience of mobile gaming, diving into this genre is as simple as downloading your next favorite title.

Below are some of the top football games worth adding to your playlist.

Retro Bowl

Retro Bowl is a mobile football game that mixes nostalgic 8-bit graphics with surprisingly deep gameplay. You play as both coach and quarterback, managing your roster, handling player morale, and calling plays on the field. Quick, satisfying matches and simple controls make it easy to pick up, while strategic depth keeps you coming back for “just one more game.” Available on iOS and Android, it’s a perfect blend of classic style and modern football action.

Touchdown hero

Touchdown Hero is a fast-paced mobile football game where you dodge, spin, and weave your way past defenders to score the winning touchdown. With simple swipe controls, each run feels different, letting you choose your path and rack up points while avoiding tackles. Its quick, arcade-style matches and colorful visuals make it an easy pick for fun on the go.

Madden NFL Mobile

Madden NFL Mobile brings the iconic football franchise to your phone with realistic gameplay, official NFL teams, and current player rosters. You can build and manage your ultimate team, compete in head-to-head matchups, and take on live events that mirror the real season. With polished graphics and deep customization, it’s the most authentic NFL experience you can get on mobile.

Touchdown Manager

Touchdown Manager is a strategy-focused football game that puts you in the coach’s seat. You’ll recruit and train players, design winning plays, and outsmart opponents in real-time matches. Instead of controlling every pass or run, your success depends on smart tactics, clever formations, and effective team management. It’s perfect for football fans who enjoy thinking their way to victory.

Fanatical Football

Fanatical Football delivers a straightforward, arcade-style take on American football. You can play quick matches or full seasons, controlling both offense and defense with simple touch controls. With colorful 3D graphics, fast gameplay, and easy pick-up-and-play mechanics, it’s a solid choice for casual football fun on mobile.

NFL Experience On the Go

Whether you’re after nostalgic charm, fast arcade action, deep strategy, or a realistic NFL experience, these five mobile football games each bring something unique to the field. From quick swipes in Touchdown Hero to managing every play in Touchdown Manager, there’s a perfect match for every type of fan.

The best part? You can carry the excitement of football season in your pocket and jump into the game anytime, anywhere.

The post Top Mobile Games for NFL-Loving Moms appeared first on Geek Mamas .

Technology Behind Secure Online Gambling Sites

With today’s digital age, internet gambling is a favorite pastime among millions of people on this planet. An activity previously restricted to brick-and-mortar casinos is now available with a few touches on a smartphone or clicks on a computer. 

But as easy as online gambling is, there is one question savvy consumers always have: How secure are internet gambling sites? The best part is that the reliable online casinos leverage cutting-edge technology to secure players’ information, finances, and gameplay.

Tech-savvy readers and wise parents alike will appreciate understanding what goes on in the background of such websites. Here’s a peek into the fascinating layers of technology powering secure and trustworthy online gambling portals.

Encryption: The Digital Vault

At the core of all secure online gambling sites lies SSL encryption (Secure Socket Layer). The technology builds a secure link between one’s computer and the casino server so that sensitive information (personal details or credit card numbers, for example) is not on the surface for third-party eavesdropping.

Most reputable gambling sites employ 256-bit SSL encryption, the kind employed by the major banks of the world. This means that information between the player and the server is encrypted beyond recognition, so hackers can’t exploit it.

You’ll usually notice a padlock icon in the URL bar: this is the visual signal that the site is using encryption and taking your data security seriously.

Licensing and Regulation: Behind-the-Scenes Governance

A casino must first get a license from a reputable gaming authority (e.g., the UK Gambling Commission, the Malta Gaming Authority, or the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority) before it can legally operate online. Licenses are not red tape. They ensure that the casino meets high standards of fairness, security, and responsible gaming.

Licensed sites are subject to regular audits and inspections, under which third-party organizations test their games and mechanisms. It stops fraud and shields the casino from being elusive. For customers, it’s a security net that guarantees an even playing field.

RNG Technology: Facilitating Honest Play

The basis of fair gaming on the web is RNG (Random Number Generator) software. This sophisticated piece of software ensures that every spin of a slot, card deal, or dice roll is random and tamper-proof.

Legitimate casinos have their RNG systems independently audited and certified by eCOGRA or iTech Labs. Independent audits guarantee that the outcome of games is impossible to predict or manipulate and that players are given a fair chance to win.

Secure Payment Gateways

Payment security forms the largest component of online casino security. Secure payment gateways such as PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, or cryptocurrency wallets offer end-to-end encryption and fraud protection.

Most of these sites also employ two-factor authentication (2FA) for login or withdrawal. This adds a layer of protection as it requires users to validate their identity with something that they possess (e.g., their mobile phone) in addition to a password.

Some go a step further by combining instant banking and blockchain payments, which add transparency as well as speed and have robust security protocols in place.

Firewall and Anti-Fraud Systems

Similar to how a physical casino would use surveillance cameras and security guards, online gaming sites use firewalls and anti-fraud systems. These monitor traffic and pass on signs of suspicious activity, such as frequent log-ins or unusual betting patterns.

Advanced AI programs and machine learning are also being used to detect potential fraud in real time. If a hacker tries to access multiple accounts or cheat at a game, the system can prevent the activity right away, blocking damage before it occurs.

Responsible Gambling Technology

In addition to ensuring that your money and information are secure, safe online casinos are also committed to the well-being of players. Modern sites include responsible gaming tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and activity tracking to allow users to manage their habits.

Some sites apply behavioral analysis to detect signs of problem gambling and offer real-time pop-ups and guidelines where risky behavior is detected. These online safety nets are especially important in ensuring enjoyable and sustainable play.

Mobile Security and App Integrity

Considering that most players utilize mobile phones, security does not end at desktop browsers. Mobile applications at reputable online casinos are designed with sandboxed environments, that is, the application runs isolated from other programs on your device. This reduces the possibility of malware attacks.

Periodic patches and updates for security ensure that any loopholes are addressed on time. Furthermore, app stores also impose strict compliance prior to allowing gambling apps in, which is another layer of scrutiny.

Future Trends: Blockchain and Biometric Security

While the industry continues to expand, new technology is changing the way that online casinos guard their environments. Blockchain is being eyed for fair game outcomes and secure payment history maintenance, and biometric logins (fingerprint and facial recognition) offer very personalized security.

Decentralized identity solutions and smart contracts may also be in the cards in the future, making player authentication automatic while keeping data safe and private.

Final Thoughts

Behind every strike of a spin button or virtual dice roll is a complex infrastructure of tech running continuously to bring safety, fairness, and fun. From encrypted links to certified RNGs and fraud detection software, today’s secure online gambling platforms are protected by some of the most advanced tech on the internet.

For those new to the world of online gaming, understanding these systems is not simply fascinating: it’s influential. It helps users make informed choices, knowing they’re playing on platforms as committed to security as they are fun. 

In the end, it’s not a roll of the dice: it’s a question of trust built on technology.

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Adoption Planning Tips for Mothers Considering Growing Their Family

When you’ve made the beautiful decision to grow your family through adoption, the planning process can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Unlike traditional pregnancy planning, adoption requires a different set of preparations and considerations. 

As a mother contemplating this journey, you’ll need to navigate emotional, practical, and logistical aspects that are unique to the adoption process. Here are essential tips to help you plan effectively for your adoption journey.

Start with Your “Why” and Set Clear Intentions

Before diving into the practical aspects of adoption planning, take time to reflect on your motivations and expectations. Angel Adoption’s newborn agency in Fort Worth, Texas, helps families through their adoption processes. Their counselors have learned that families tend to have more positive adoption experiences when they set clear intentions and realistic expectations.

Consider writing down your reasons for choosing adoption, your hopes for your future child, and your expectations about the process. This reflection will serve as your anchor during challenging moments and help you communicate your intentions clearly to adoption professionals, family members, and potential birth parents.

Understanding your motivations also helps you choose the right type of adoption for your family. Whether you’re considering domestic infant adoption, foster care adoption, or international adoption, each path has different requirements, timelines, and considerations.

Research and Choose the Right Adoption Professional

One of the most critical decisions in your adoption planning is selecting the right adoption professional to guide your journey. This choice will significantly impact your entire experience, so thorough research is essential.

Start by researching licensed adoption agencies in your area and reading reviews from other adoptive families. Look for agencies that are accredited by the Council on Accreditation and have experience with the type of adoption you’re considering. Don’t hesitate to interview multiple agencies or attorneys to find the best fit for your family’s needs and values.

Ask detailed questions about their process, fees, average wait times, and support services. A reputable adoption professional should be transparent about costs, realistic about timelines, and committed to ethical practices that prioritize the best interests of all parties involved.

Create a Comprehensive Financial Plan

Adoption costs can vary dramatically depending on the type of adoption you choose, ranging from minimal expenses for foster care adoption to $40,000 or more for private domestic or international adoption. Creating a detailed financial plan early in your journey is crucial for reducing stress and ensuring you can complete your adoption.

Explore all available financial assistance options, including adoption grants, loans, employer benefits, and the federal adoption tax credit. Many employers offer adoption benefits that can significantly offset costs, so check with your human resources department about available support.

Consider creative fundraising options such as crowdfunding campaigns, community events, or selling items to raise adoption funds. Some families also choose to take on side jobs or reduce expenses in other areas to save for adoption costs.

Prepare for the Home Study Process

The home study is a comprehensive evaluation required for all adoptions, designed to ensure that prospective parents can provide a safe, stable, and loving environment for a child. Rather than viewing it as an intimidating inspection, approach the home study as an opportunity to demonstrate your readiness for parenthood.

Begin preparing for your home study early by gathering required documents such as financial statements, medical clearances, employment verification, and personal references. Having these documents organized and readily available will streamline the process and reduce delays.

Focus on creating a safe, child-friendly environment in your home. This doesn’t mean you need to have everything perfect or purchase expensive items, but you should address basic safety concerns such as securing cabinets, covering electrical outlets, and ensuring smoke detectors are functional.

Use the home study process as an opportunity for self-reflection and growth. The social worker conducting your home study is there to support you and help identify any areas where additional preparation might be beneficial.

Build Your Support Network Early

The adoption journey can be emotionally challenging, with periods of excitement, anxiety, disappointment, and joy. Building a strong support network before you need it is essential for maintaining your emotional well-being throughout the process.

Connect with other adoptive families through local support groups, online communities, or adoption agency events. These connections provide invaluable emotional support and practical advice from people who understand the unique challenges of adoption.

Don’t neglect your existing support network of family and friends. Help them understand your adoption journey and communicate how they can best support you. Some may offer emotional encouragement, while others might provide practical help, such as childcare during appointments or assistance with fundraising efforts.

Consider working with a counselor who specializes in adoption to help process emotions and develop coping strategies. Many adoption agencies provide counseling services as part of their programs, recognizing that emotional support is just as important as practical preparation.

Develop Realistic Timeline Expectations

One of the most challenging aspects of adoption planning is managing expectations around timing. Unlike pregnancy, where you have a fairly predictable nine-month timeline, adoption wait times can vary significantly and are largely outside your control.

Research average wait times for your chosen adoption path, but prepare mentally for the possibility of longer waits. Use your waiting time productively by continuing your education about adoption, building your support network, preparing your home and finances, and focusing on self-care. Many families find that staying busy with meaningful activities helps the waiting period feel more manageable.

Remember that a longer wait doesn’t necessarily mean anything is wrong with your adoption plan. Sometimes the right match simply takes time to develop, and the wait can be worth it when you find the perfect situation for your family.

Educate Yourself About Parenting and Adoption-Specific Issues

While you’re waiting for your adoption to be completed, invest time in educating yourself about parenting and adoption-specific issues. This preparation will help you feel more confident when your child arrives and better equipped to handle unique challenges that may arise.

Read books about adoption, attachment, and trauma-informed parenting. Attend workshops or webinars offered by your adoption agency or local adoption organizations. Understanding concepts such as attachment theory, the impact of early trauma, and strategies for talking with children about adoption will benefit your entire family.

Consider how you’ll handle questions about adoption from well-meaning friends, family members, and strangers. Having thoughtful responses prepared can help protect your family’s privacy while educating others about adoption.

Research resources for ongoing support after your adoption is complete. Many families benefit from continued connection with adoption-competent counselors, support groups, and educational resources throughout their child’s development.

Plan for Different Adoption Scenarios

While it’s natural to focus on your ideal adoption scenario, effective planning requires considering various possibilities and having contingency plans in place. This preparation helps reduce anxiety and ensures you’re ready to make informed decisions if circumstances change.

Consider different potential outcomes, such as birth parent changes of heart, failed matches, or unexpected medical needs. While these situations are emotionally challenging, having thought through your responses in advance can help you navigate them more effectively.

Discuss with your partner how you’ll handle difficult decisions that may arise during the process. Having these conversations before you’re in emotionally charged situations helps ensure you’re aligned and can make decisions that reflect your family’s values and priorities.

Prepare emotionally for the possibility that your first adoption situation may not work out. While this can be devastating, many families who experience failed adoptions do eventually have successful placements. Building resilience and maintaining hope while protecting your emotional well-being is a delicate balance that many adoptive families must navigate.

Consider How Motherhood Will Change Your Perspective

As you plan for adoption, reflect on how becoming a mother through this unique path might change your perspective on family, parenting, and life in general. Adoption often brings a heightened awareness of the intentionality and gratitude involved in family formation.

Think about how you’ll incorporate your child’s adoption story into your family narrative in a positive, age-appropriate way. Children who grow up understanding their adoption story from the beginning tend to have healthier attitudes about their origins and family formation.

Consider how you’ll maintain connections with birth family members if your adoption includes ongoing contact. Open adoption relationships can be incredibly enriching, but also require emotional maturity, clear boundaries, and ongoing communication skills.

Focus on Self-Care During the Planning Process

The adoption planning process can be emotionally and physically demanding, making self-care essential rather than optional. Maintaining your well-being ensures you’ll be in the best possible position to welcome your future child.

Develop healthy coping strategies for managing stress and uncertainty. This might include regular exercise, meditation, creative pursuits, or spending time in nature. Find activities that help you feel grounded and centered during the ups and downs of the adoption process.

Maintain your relationships and interests outside of adoption planning. While adoption may feel all-consuming at times, continuing to engage in activities you enjoy and maintaining friendships helps preserve your identity and emotional balance.

Don’t hesitate to seek professional support if you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship stress related to your adoption journey. Many adoption professionals can recommend counselors who understand the unique challenges of the adoption process.

Conclusion

Planning for adoption requires careful consideration of emotional, practical, and financial factors that are unique to this path to parenthood. While the process can feel complex and overwhelming, thorough planning helps ensure you’re prepared for the journey ahead and ready to welcome your future child with confidence.

Remember that adoption planning is not just about completing required steps or gathering necessary documents—it’s about preparing your heart, mind, and home for the child who will complete your family. Every challenge you work through and every preparation you make is an investment in your future family’s well-being and happiness.

The planning process itself often becomes a meaningful part of your adoption story, demonstrating the intentionality and love that went into bringing your family together. While the journey may be different from what you originally envisioned, the destination—holding your child for the first time—makes every moment of planning worthwhile.

Trust in your ability to navigate this process, lean on your support network when you need help, and remember that thousands of families have successfully walked this path before you. With careful planning, realistic expectations, and unwavering commitment to your goal, you’ll be well-prepared to welcome your child home and begin your life together as a family.

The post Adoption Planning Tips for Mothers Considering Growing Their Family appeared first on Geek Mamas .

Top 3 Affordable Garage Door Repair Services in Houston: Reliable Options for Quality Repairs

If your garage door breaks down, finding fast and affordable help can be a big worry. Finding affordable garage door repair in Houston gives you a way to fix your home while keeping your budget on track.

You want a repair service that responds quickly, does the job right, and doesn’t overcharge you. With many options to choose from, it’s smart to look for local professionals who have good reviews and offer fair prices.

Easy Garage – expert installation and repair with comprehensive warranty

When your garage door has problems, you want fast and skilled help. At Easy Garage, you get expert installation and repair for all types of garage doors and openers. Their team handles new installations, spring fixes, opener replacements, and more for both homes and businesses.

You can expect high-quality service with every visit. The technicians are trained and use top brands for parts and equipment. They focus on getting the job done right the first time, which means fewer callbacks and less hassle for you.

One thing that sets Easy Garage apart is its warranty coverage. After your door or opener is fixed or replaced, you can have peace of mind knowing a strong warranty stands behind the work. This warranty covers both labor and parts, protecting your wallet from defects or mistakes.

Easy Garage services all kinds of garage door systems. Whether you have an older model or a new, smart-enabled opener, their technicians know how to work with it. You can also ask questions about upgrades, features, and safety tips while they’re on site.

Booking an appointment is quick by phone or online. Customers mention that Easy Garage responds quickly and is flexible with scheduling. Upfront pricing and clear recommendations help you make the right choice for your repair or installation needs.

You can trust the experts from Easy Garage to handle your garage door problems on time and at a fair price. Whether it’s a minor repair or a full installation with warranty support, they focus on making the process simple for you.

Houston Garage Doors – reliable repairs with over 20 years of experience

If you are looking for someone with long experience to fix your garage door, this service offers over 20 years in the business. They have helped many Houston homeowners with repairs, new doors, and maintenance. You can get help with broken springs, doors that come off track, and even roller replacement.

You get a dedicated team that knows how to handle all types of garage door issues. If your opener is not working or the door gets stuck, they have the tools and skills to find the solution. You will also find clear service without big sales pressure.

Their work covers a wide range of garage door problems, so you can feel comfortable calling them for almost any repair. If your garage door is making loud noises or struggles to open, they can check and fix it. This can save you both time and money down the road.

For those who want an honest and straightforward repair, this service fits well. You get help from staff who are chosen for their skill and long experience. This makes it easy when you need your garage door working again quickly and without hassle.

The focus is on steady service and attention to customer needs every step of the way. Whether you need a quick fix or a complete replacement, you can expect solid work from people who know the local area. All staff are employees rather than outside contractors, which helps you get a more personal touch.

Just Garage Door – 24-hour emergency service and fast response times

If your garage door stops working late at night or on a weekend, you do not have to wait until business hours to get help. This company offers 24-hour emergency service, so you can call at any time you need help.

You will talk with a local technician who can quickly come out to your home. The team is experienced with different garage door problems like broken springs, cables, tracks, or openers.

Fast response times are a big part of their service. When you call for emergency help, a technician is often sent out right away. You do not have to worry about long wait times, even during the busiest days or holidays.

If your garage door is stuck or making loud noises, you can reach out for help. The company understands that a working garage door is important for your schedule and safety.

They repair many different types of garage doors, both old and new. You will get honest feedback about what needs to be fixed and what options are available.

You do not have to sign a contract or book weeks in advance. Just make a call when you need help, and they will send a technician to assist you.

This service is designed for both homeowners and businesses in Houston. You get a quick solution to problems, so your day is not held up by a broken garage door.

Conclusion

When you need garage door repairs in Houston, looking for affordable and skilled service is smart. Picking a team with good reviews and fair prices helps you avoid spending too much.

You can find trustworthy help by comparing quotes, checking ratings, and reading feedback from local customers. These steps make repairs simpler and help you feel sure about your choice.

A working garage door supports both safety and comfort at home. By acting quickly and choosing wisely, you keep your garage safe and your costs low.

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Head Feels Heavy: Common Causes and Simple Relief Tips

Some days it feels like your head is carrying a little extra weight — making it harder to focus, keep up with the kids, or even enjoy your morning coffee. This “heavy head” feeling can pop up for lots of everyday reasons, like being overtired, catching a cold, or spending too much time hunched over your phone. Most of the time, it’s nothing serious, but it’s definitely not fun.

If your head feels heavy because of a migraine, these 5 tips for instant migraine relief can help right away. Even if it’s not migraine-related, knowing the triggers and relief strategies is key to regaining comfort and focus.

Why Does My Head Feel Heavy?

Sometimes a heavy head feeling isn’t a full-on headache, but it’s still enough to make even the simplest mom-tasks feel like climbing a hill. You’re trying to pack lunches, help with homework, or get everyone out the door, and all the while it feels like someone put a small weight on top of your head. Here’s why it might happen — and how it sneaks up on busy moms.

Poor Posture and Neck Strain

Think of your head like a watermelon your neck has to hold up all day. If you’re bent over your phone checking school updates, scrolling social media during nap time, or leaning over the sink doing dishes, that “watermelon” feels heavier. After hours of this, your neck and shoulders get tight, and that dull, heavy feeling creeps in.

Example: After spending the afternoon helping your child with a craft project at the kitchen table, you stand up and realize your neck is stiff, your shoulders are tense, and your head feels like it’s wearing an invisible helmet.

Tension and Sinus Pressure

Sometimes it’s not your muscles — it’s the pressure in your head. A stuffy nose from allergies or a cold can make your forehead and cheeks feel full, even without actual pain. This can leave you with that “my head feels heavy and pressure but no pain” sensation.

Example: You take the kids to the park on a windy spring day, enjoy the fresh air, but by the time you’re home, your face feels heavy and your head feels like it’s carrying extra weight.

Dizziness and Balance Wobbles

If your head feels heavy and dizzy, it can make walking around with a toddler on your hip or chasing after your preschooler extra tricky. Sometimes this happens when your inner ear — the part that helps with balance — is a little off. Even a quick head turn can make you feel like the room is tilting.

Example: You roll over in bed in the morning and suddenly feel like you’re on a merry-go-round, even though you haven’t had your coffee yet.

Fatigue and Stress

A heavy head can simply be your body’s way of saying, “Enough, mama.” Between school drop-offs, cooking, cleaning, and maybe working on top of it all, running on little sleep or too much stress leaves you drained. Skipping meals or forgetting to hydrate can make it worse.

Example: After staying up late folding laundry and prepping for the next day, you wake up groggy. Even with coffee in hand, your head feels foggy and weighed down, making it harder to keep up with the morning rush.

When to See a Doctor About a Heavy Head

Most of the time, a heavy head feeling is nothing serious — it’s your body’s way of saying you need rest, better posture, or a bit more water. But there are moments when it’s worth getting checked out right away.

Seek medical attention if you notice:

Sudden, severe head pain that comes on quickly and feels unlike anything you’ve had before.Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your face, arms, or legs.Trouble speaking or understanding speech.Loss of balance or coordination, especially if your head feels heavy and dizzy.Vision changes, like blurriness, double vision, or partial loss of sight.Persistent heavy head feeling that doesn’t improve with rest and home care.

If your head feels weird but not a headache, yet you notice any of these “red flag” symptoms, don’t wait — call a doctor or emergency services immediately. Acting quickly can make all the difference.

Simple Ways to Relieve a Heavy Head at Home

If your head feels heavy, the good news is there are plenty of small, easy changes you can try without rushing to the doctor. These aren’t complicated routines — just practical tweaks you can do in your everyday life to give your head some breathing room.

Improve Posture During the Day

Sometimes your heavy head feeling is just your body’s way of saying, “Hey, stop slouching.” Whether you’re working at a desk, playing on the floor with your kids, or stuck in traffic, how you hold your head and shoulders matters.

At your desk: Adjust your chair so your screen is at eye level and your feet are flat.Playing with kids: Sit cross-legged or kneel instead of hunching forward for long stretches.Driving: Keep your head against the headrest instead of leaning toward the wheel.

Think of your head like a watermelon — if you keep carrying it too far forward, your neck’s going to feel it.

Gentle Neck and Shoulder Stretches

If your head feels heavy and foggy, it could be tension building up in your upper body. The fix? A few slow, easy stretches you can do anywhere:

Neck tilt: Gently tilt your ear toward your shoulder, hold for 10 seconds, then switch sides.Shoulder rolls: Slowly roll your shoulders forward and backward to release tension.Chin tuck: Pull your chin in slightly (like making a double chin) to realign your neck.

These moves take less than a minute but can make you feel lighter almost instantly — perfect during a work break or even while dinner’s cooking.

Rest and Hydration

Sometimes the reason your head feels like a balloon is as simple as not giving your body enough fuel or downtime. Skipping sleep or forgetting to drink water leaves you feeling sluggish and heavy-headed.

Aim for a solid night’s sleep (yes, even if that means saying no to one more Netflix episode) and keep a water bottle nearby. If plain water is boring, toss in lemon slices or cucumber for a little flavor boost.

Quick Migraine or Headache Relief Tips

If your head feels heavy and pressure turns into a headache, having a few go-to tricks can help you bounce back faster. Sometimes it’s as easy as stepping into a dark, quiet room for 10 minutes or placing a cool cloth on your forehead.

And if you suspect your heaviness is migraine-related, these5 tips for instant migraine relief can help you feel better without losing your whole day to pain.

Final Thoughts on Managing a Heavy Head

A heavy head feeling can be annoying, but in most cases, it’s not a sign of anything dangerous. Often, small changes — like adjusting your posture, drinking enough water, or taking short breaks from screens — can make a big difference.

Still, your body has its own way of telling you when something’s off. If your head feels heavy and foggy or you notice unusual symptoms that don’t go away, it’s worth getting checked by a doctor. Taking care of yourself today means you’ll spend more time enjoying life — and less time wondering, “Why does my head feel heavy?”

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What It’s Like to Stay at Camp Chateau, a Women’s Summer Camp in France

I stayed at Camp Chateau, the women’s summer camp in France, for the July summer session 2025. Here’s what it’s honestly like to stay at Camp Chateau, plus some travel tips and things I learned along the way.

Front of Camp ChateauWelcome to Camp Chateau

A couple years ago, my friend Lori sent me a Reel of this amazing fairytale looking place for women in the French countryside. I took one look at it and said, “I’m going!” So, she said she was in as well, and a few days later we booked a reservation for the next year.

A few days after that, the video we had seen went totally viral with millions of views and then thousands of women were on the wait list. We were so excited we had jumped on it so quickly and got a spot!

The video below is not the one that went viral, but the one I made during my stay at Camp Chateau:

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A post shared by Candy Keane (@sewgeekmama)

What is Camp Chateau?

Camp Château is a women’s retreat located in Béduer, France, designed to offer an empowering, rejuvenating, and creative experience for adult women from around the world, summer camp style. You can learn more about the camp at: www.campchateau.com.

You’ll be bunking in a room with several other women or staying in a glamping tent. Each day there are camp activities you can choose from, or you can choose to do nothing and just relax.

The activities range from creative (painting, ceramics, felting), to physical (yoga, horseback riding, kayaking), to mental (journaling, astrology, meditation.)

You can also book therapies like massages and sound bath healing for an additional fee.

This is my honest description of my camp experience. It is a very unique opportunity, and everyone will have their own unique experience. If you are considering trying it, I completely recommend going!

Cost and Travel to Beduer, France

When we reserved our spot, it required a €675 deposit. The overall cost for the 6-day, 5-night stay was a little over €2250. (the prices are in Euros)

Normally, you would fly into Toulouse, France, but we decided if we were going that far, we wanted to see as much as possible, so we decided to fly to Barcelona first. The cost of our flights from Jacksonville to Spain and then France to back home were $1550.81. It was around the same price if we were just doing France and back.

We took a train from Barcelona to Toulouse, then a train from Toulouse to Figeac. Trains were not that expensive, but you will need to figure that into your cost. At the very least, you’ll need to take a train to Figeac.

The camp shuttle from the train station is free, and you’ll arrange that ahead of time with the camp.

I highly recommend adding in some extra time if you can and staying in Figeac overnight. It is a really neat medieval city with great food and cute boutiques for shopping. If not, you will still get to visit with the camp on market day.

Train StationFigeacFigeacWhat the Camp Chateau Bedrooms are Like

Most of the bedrooms are on floors two and three of the chateau, so make sure you are able to lug your suitcase up two flights of winding stairs! There is one room on the first floor.

The rooms are big and all unique. Our room had five beds, and the connecting room had three. The bathroom was actually in the connecting room, which was a little inconvenient, so I ended up using the hallway bathroom most of the time.

You get one kind of flat pillow, so bring a spare if you are a side sleeper and need a huggy pillow. The beds were small but decent. Remember, you are at camp, not a luxury hotel.

They give you an eye mask and ear plugs when you check in, and you’ll probably need them! There was no fan or white noise in our room, and you could hear every sound, so I found the ear plugs very useful.

Overall, I found the beds to be comfy and actually slept quite well.

Our roomConnecting roomThe Other Rooms of the Chateau

Up the winding staircase to your left is where you go to the bedrooms and the very top floor is where you’ll find the Yoga and meditation room.

The bottom floor of the chateau is where everything else is located.

The main room where you walk in is where you’ll find breakfast and your lunch baskets.

Off to the right is the kitchen, and off to the left you’ll find the room to sign up for activities. Through there is the dining hall where you’ll have dinner. And through a door in the dining room is the chateau shop and a bathroom.

Also, off the main room, to the back, is the library and a bedroom. The library has the best Wi-Fi and the info for connecting. I found that I did also have Wi-Fi access in our room as well.

Yoga and MeditationShopActivitiesBathroom Situation and Shower

Since our room bathroom was technically in another room, I mostly used the hall bathroom, which was more private. I also used the communal shower room, which had three private stalls.

The water pressure and temperature were both good in the shower. Everything looked nice and clean, but we did have an odd incident where the last stall had little mushrooms on the first day. By the fourth day, they had grown into large mushrooms and broke off and clogged the drains.

So, you might want to pack some shower shoes for camp!

But honestly overall everything was very clean and I’m sure the mushrooms were an isolated incident.

Shampoo, conditioner and body wash are provided, and I thought they worked pretty well. One girl in our bunk didn’t like them at all, so I guess it depends on your hair type. I would suggest packing your own if you are particular. And be sure to pack body lotion, as that is not provided.

One the first day you are provided with a towel, hand towels and a couple washcloths, plus a little basket for your toiletries.

Glamping Tents

I stayed in the chateau, so I don’t have a lot of first-hand info on the Glamping Tents. I walked by them and saw inside, and they were a bit smaller than I thought they would be.

It was also a bit of a hike to get to the bathroom by the pool, so I was glad I didn’t stay there. It’s not a good choice if you are the kind of person who has to use the bathroom in the middle of the night.

But they definitely offer a different kind of camp experience!

Glamping TentsExploring the Chateau Grounds

The grounds around Camp Chateau are beautiful! Flowers and fruits are everywhere, and they encourage picking and eating. There were tons of plums when we were there.

They have lots of lavender and you’ll find a little sachet in your tote bag for the purpose of filling with lavender. Bring this to the shop and you’ll be rewarded with a badge.

The flowers are big and colorful and just amazing. I took tons of photos of flowers while exploring.

DahliaPlums

There are two pools- the regular pool and then a quiet pool. There’s also a badminton net, large chess board, flower garden, vegetable and herb garden and a labyrinth.

Food and Wine at Camp Chateau

If you have a special diet or allergies, they do a really good job of making sure everyone gets what they need. You’ll be assigned a symbol, and your food will have a little flag that marks it with your symbol.

Breakfast

Breakfast is provided every morning, and it does not change. There are two coffee machines, and there is a fridge with assorted milk and milk substitutes and juice. Plus, some delicious yogurts in different flavors.

You also have access to cold water and ice 24-7.

For the breakfast, you’ll get assorted pastries and of course croissants! I think I’ve eaten enough croissants to last me a few years now. You also get fruits, hard-boiled eggs and slices of ham. And there is granola if you want to mix it with your yogurt.

It was hot during the day, but breakfast time was crisp, cool and beautiful. Having coffee every morning with an amazing view gets your day started off just right.

BreakfastCoffee timeLunch

Lunch is provided picnic style, in a basket with various choices, bread and rosé wine. You’ll have lunch with your bunkmates. There will also be buffet style lunches, and lunch on the last day is at a local place in town.

Yummy lunchPicnic lunch basketsPicnic lunchDinner

Dinners are held in the main dining hall, and the first night you’ll be with your bunkmates, then they switch it up. For example, one night we all chose marbles as we entered, and we sat at the table that matched our marble.

Dinners were very good, with a lot of variety. Some were better than others, but overall, I enjoyed the meals.

There was usually a salad, main course, several sides, bread, wine and dessert. And before dinner they serve drinks and have music for a bit before we all sit down for the meal.

They have bottles of wine for sale, but they didn’t really point that out right away. So be aware that you can buy wine if you don’t like the table wine.

The sparkling wine, white and rose wines were very nice, but the red had a weird smell. I don’t know what was up with the red, as it tasted decent but smelled a bit like a horse. That’s the best way I can think of to describe it. The red consistently had a weird stink to it. (Sorry Camp Chateau! I love you, but the red wine smelled weird.)

They had a wine tasting one night, and that’s where I learned we can purchase wine. I highly recommend the Pinot Noir. My friend and I bought a bottle of that two nights in a row.

DessertThe good wineCamp Activities

There are so many different activities to choose from! If you want to go horseback riding or kayaking, sign up for those first on the first day as those spots go fast.

I usually managed to fit in two electives a day, but you can do more. I just didn’t want to be too busy and relax a bit.

You’ll have a chance to pick three activities on the first night to make sure you get your favorites, and then you can sign up when you want. If a class is full, you can also drop in and see if there’s a spot open.

Below is my well-worn Camp Chateau Program with all the activities available. One of my favorite activities I did was the Herbal Foraging. I learned a lot of about the plants around the camp and got to take a beautiful walk up the hiking trail.

All the classes are suitable for beginners. For example- I took the ceramics class, and it starts with a very basic lesson in making coils, pinch pots and slab building. I ended up making a snail because I kept seeing so many pretty snails everywhere.

And you also have the option to do absolutely nothing at all and just relax! You can lounge by the pool all day, find a quiet corner to read a book or wander around the beautiful grounds. You can be as busy or not busy as you like.

The activities are where you will earn many of your badges, and at the end you can sew them on your Chatote. (the cute name for your Camp Chateau tote bag)

Besides activities badges, there are badges for things like taking a nap, reading a book, journaling and wandering in the labyrinth.

And make sure you don’t miss the Silent Disco! We had so much fun dancing in the courtyard and didn’t want that one to end.

The snails at Camp ChateauMy ceramic snailLaundry

Laundry day starts on Thursday, so be prepared for that. You can purchase a wash token and dry token for $3 each at the chateau shop and sign up for a specific time.

You can hang your clothes to dry, but it rained a little almost every day we were there, so I used the dryer.

They provide laundry soap, but I brought my own laundry soap and dryer sheets because I need unscented/sensitive skin products. (I use the laundry soap sheets from Happy Elephant. Great for traveling because you don’t have to worry about liquids. Click here to find them on Amazon.)

What to Pack for Camp Chateau

A big topic on the Facebook group for camp is what to pack. That’s going to depend on what time of year you are going and what activities you want to do.

Even if it is hot, bring a sweater or something warm. The mornings are chilly! The week before we went there was a big heatwave and I packed mostly for hot weather and wish I’d packed a bit warmer.

As a Florida girl that’s used to the heat, I didn’t even find it warm enough to go in the pool. I made it up to my knees in the freezing water and hopped out.

If you plan on kayaking, bring water shoes and clothes to get wet in. If you want to ride a horse, bring pants. And if you just want to wear pretty dresses and wander around taking pictures, you can do that too!

The Women at Camp Chateau

You will meet all different kinds of women, from all over the world, and all different ages. Such a wide variety!

Some are solo travelers, and some came with friends, but everyone is there to embrace the spirit of camp and have an amazing experience.

Also, the camp founders, workers, and class instructors are all extremely kind and helpful.

In fact, my camp experience got off to a rough start because somewhere in my travels I developed a blocked tear duct that got infected. It had started swelling pretty bad all around my eye by the second day of camp. By day three I knew I needed medical intervention.

I got online and found myself a telehealth doctor at Doctorsa.com, which I highly recommend! I was able to see a doctor that same day through Whatsapp, for about $45.

The doctor confirmed the blocked tear duct and e-mailed me a prescription I could use at any pharmacy. The camp co-founder Phillippa was able to pick up my medications that day at a pharmacy in town. It was all handled so well and everyone was so helpful. And I even got a badge for it at the end! lol

And all my meds, which ended up being antibiotic eye drops, and three boxes of steroid drops ended up costing just over $20. I was pretty impressed by the cost of healthcare there!

Would I Recommend Camp Chateau?

I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this experience. It was such a unique experience overall and something I had never done before. I had never gotten to go to summer camp when I was little, so it was pretty new to me.

I think everyone can get something out of going to camp. You meet new people, learn new things, and maybe learn to take care of yourself a little more in the process.

And if you are thinking of going, don’t wait! Spots fill up fast so make your reservations early. It will definitely be an experience to remember.

And there is so much more to camp and the chateau that I didn’t cover here! I tried to hit all the highlights. Feel free to leave me questions if you have them. I’m happy to answer them.

Rainbow outside the window on the last day of camp

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