November 5, 2024

November 05, 2024

🗳️ It’s Election Day, and if you’re anything like us, you’re ready for this season to wrap up. Between the debates, ads, and endless discussions, we could all use a breather. But today’s the day to make your voice heard—so make sure to go out and vote if you haven’t already. Even if it means sneaking in a trip to the polls between errands, make it count. Let’s see what this election has in store for us, and then maybe we can all agree on a little break from political chatter for a while!

  • Savoring the Holidays: How to Slow Down and Soak It All In

  • Baggy Jeans Are Back: How to Look Less Like You Borrowed Your Dad’s Pants

  • Holiday Shopping, Credit Card Caution: Know Before You Swipe!

MENTAL HEALTH

Unwrap the moment.

Holidays got you in overdrive? We’re all too familiar with the nonstop hustle: the gift-wrapping marathons, the back-to-back gatherings, and the pressure to make everything “just right.” But what if this season you hit pause and focused on savoring each moment instead?

What Is Savoring, Anyway? According to research, savoring goes beyond simply enjoying something. It’s about being fully aware of a good experience and letting it fill you up. Think of it as pressing “pause” on the happy moments to relish them—whether it’s the smell of a fresh pine tree or the cozy warmth of a holiday fire.

Ways to Slow Down and Savor the Season

  • Breathe Deeply
    When you feel the holiday stress kicking in, try taking slow, deep breaths. It activates your relaxation response, helping to calm your mind and keep you grounded. Bonus: it can also lower your blood pressure!

  • Focus on Simple Pleasures
    The crackle of a fire, the sparkle of lights, or the first sip of hot cocoa—these small moments are easy to overlook, but they’re perfect for practicing savoring. Try to pause, notice, and enjoy.

  • Let Go of Perfect
    Perfection is a myth, especially during the holidays. Letting go of high expectations can make the season way more enjoyable. Embrace the imperfections—they’re what make the memories last.

  • Reconnect with Loved Ones
    Holidays are a time for connection. Whether it’s through a phone call or sharing a meal, these moments with loved ones are worth slowing down for.

This season, give yourself the gift of time. Slow down, savor, and soak in the holiday magic.

STYLE

Baggy jeans, big style.

Baggy jeans: they're roomy, comfy, and oh-so-90s. But with all that extra fabric, they can feel a little... intimidating to style. Don’t worry, though—we’ve got you! Here’s a cheat sheet for styling your baggy jeans with effortless cool.

  1. Blazer & Heels: Nothing says "polished" like a structured blazer paired with baggy jeans. Add some heeled mules, and you’ve instantly elevated the look. Want visuals? Check out how Vogue styles it.

  2. Classic Tee & Overcoat: A white tee with baggy jeans is casual done right, but layer on an overcoat and slip into ballet flats, and you’re brunch-ready.

  3. Cowgirl Meets Street: Throw on a pair of pointed cowboy boots and a leather moto jacket for an edgy, rugged vibe that still feels cool and urban. Get inspired with more styling ideas.

  4. Slim Top & Baggy Bottom: Keep things balanced with a fitted top—like a snug sweater or tucked-in blouse—to let those jeans shine. Marie Claire has even more looks.

Ready to embrace the baggy trend? Remember, it’s all about contrast. Whether you dress it up or keep it laid-back, styling baggy jeans can be as easy as pairing slim fits with voluminous denim.

Are you raising a “living room family” or “bedroom kids”? A new TikTok trend has everyone reevaluating their family dynamics, highlighting the cozy charm of “living room families” who thrive in shared spaces versus the privacy-loving “bedroom kids” who retreat to their personal havens. This viral phenomenon encourages families to think about how these dynamics impact emotional well-being and connection—after all, a messy living room can be a sign of love and togetherness!

So, where do you fit in? Are your family gatherings lively and cluttered, or do you enjoy the comfort of personal space?

Let us know:

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SNIPPETS

US airlines are required to refund you for a canceled flight automatically. Airlines must now provide cash refunds to passengers for significant delays or cancellations without requiring a request for reimbursement. This new rule, implemented by the Department of Transportation, took effect just before the busy holiday travel season, ensuring passengers receive their money back instead of vouchers.

Teens are ditching romance for 'nomance' on TV. A new study reveals that today's teens prefer shows focused on friendships and genuine connections over dramatic romantic relationships. This shift reflects their prioritization of trust and shared experiences, moving away from superficial storylines.

Starbucks has eliminated the extra charge for non-dairy milk. Starting November 7, 2024, customers can customize their drinks with soy, coconut, almond, or oat milk without an up-charge, resulting in potential savings of over 10% at company-operated stores across the U.S.

Looking to bring a little extra holiday magic into December? These fun toy advent calendars are perfect for counting down to Christmas with a daily surprise. From creative crafts to LEGO builds, here’s a lineup that’ll keep kids entertained all month long.

Toy Advent Calendars to Kickstart the Holiday Cheer đŸŽ„

  • Disney 5-in-1 Advent Calendar – A daily dose of Disney magic with stories and activities featuring beloved characters. Perfect for little readers who adore Disney and Pixar!

  • LEGO City 2024 Advent Calendar – Build the excitement each day with mini LEGO builds and minifigs from themes like Spider-Man, Disney, and Harry Potter. Ages 6+ and great for budding builders!

  • Plus Plus Building Advent Calendar – Each day reveals new interlocking pieces for creating holiday-themed characters. Fun to build and perfect for creative kids!

  • Melissa & Doug Wooden Advent Calendar – A reusable wooden tree with magnetic ornaments to add daily, ready to brighten every holiday season. Perfect for toddlers!

  • DIY Ornament Advent Calendar – Crafty kids can design a new ornament each day using felt and stickers. A holiday treat for the creative spirit!

  • Fidget Advent Calendar – A hands-on calendar with fidget toys to pop, roll, and spin. Ideal for keeping busy hands engaged.

All4Jig Christmas Advent Calendar 2024 – 24 days of jigsaw puzzle pieces for puzzle lovers, ending with a 1008-piece masterpiece. Great for a slow-and-steady holiday activity.

Sausage Tortellini Soup

This one-pot wonder brings all the cozy vibes in just 30 minutes! Picture cheesy tortellini, juicy sausage, and a creamy tomato-kale broth that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Perfect for chilly nights or anytime you’re craving a quick, hearty meal—this soup has weeknight hero written all over it!

🏃‍♀️ Errand-ready style. Comfy under-$45 sweatsuit sets for running errands and school drop-offs!

🎅 Rudolph takes center stage. Discover the coolest outdoor Christmas decorations to shop now!

🍿 Snack time saviors. 25 healthy dietitian-approved snacks to combat hunger and cravings!

🌟 Oprah’s annual reveal. Check out her favorite things of 2024 that everyone will want!

🎭 Costume creativity at its best. This kid’s Halloween look has everyone puzzled over the magic!

Credit card conundrum.

With holiday shopping in full swing, those tempting store credit card offers are everywhere. “Sign up today for 20% off!” sounds sweet at checkout, but is it worth it? Experts say… maybe not.

While the instant discount might feel like a win, store credit cards come with sky-high interest rates (think 30.45% APR on average) compared to regular credit cards. That means if you don’t pay it off in full each month, any savings can quickly turn into costly debt.

What to Consider Before You Commit:

  • Don’t Decide on the Spot: Take the fine print home and give yourself time to read it.

  • Watch for Deferred Interest: 0% interest for a year sounds great, but missing the payoff date could mean back-charged interest.

  • Think Long-Term: Do you shop there enough to make the perks worth it?

For the full scoop on holiday store cards, check out the expert advice.

Hey Mom Squad! ❤️

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✨ Annalee and Karin ✨

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