September 27, 2024

Moms are hiding gift cards in diaper boxes thanks to TikTok.

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🌪️ Hey there, supermoms! As Hurricane Helene barrels toward Florida, we’ve hit the road in our RV, our temporary home while my house undergoes some serious renovations. That's right—while my place is a construction zone, we're embracing life on wheels with my two kids in tow. 🤪

This morning, I was balancing the chaos of RV living and taking a work Zoom meeting when a coworker on the call asked, “Can I ask you a personal question? Are you moving?” I couldn’t help but laugh, realizing my swaying on camera gave it away. Between the home renovation madness and our cozy RV life, it definitely feels like we’re in a constant state of flux! Motherhood has a way of keeping us on our toes, and as we embrace the unpredictable, I’m reminded that every twist and turn is just part of our wild ride.

  • In-Law & Order: How to Keep the Peace Without Losing Your Cool

  • Homework Hacks: From 'Help!' to 'Hooray!'

  • Fall in Love with Apples: Recipes That Are the Apple of Our Eye

RELATIONSHIPS

Family ties or tangles?

Ah, in-laws. They can be the source of heartwarming holiday memories or awkward family dinners. Whether you’re a newlywed or celebrating your 20th anniversary, getting along with your partner’s family isn’t always easy. But before you throw in the towel, here are a few tips to help you find some common ground.

Step 1: Communicate With Your Partner First things first—talk to your spouse. No, this isn’t an episode of “Everyone Loves Raymond.” If your in-laws are getting under your skin, let your partner know. They might step in to smooth things over or offer perspective you hadn’t considered.

Step 2: Set Boundaries
If your in-laws love to show up unannounced (ugh, who doesn’t love a surprise visit at 7 a.m.?), it’s time to establish some ground rules. Think of it as protecting your sanity. Some boundaries to consider:

  • Family visit guidelines (yes, schedule them)

  • Off-limits topics like your parenting style or politics

  • Time spent together during holidays (quality, not quantity!)

Step 3: Avoid Sensitive Topics
It might be tempting to bring up the latest political drama or your thoughts on raising kids, but resist. Keep conversations light. You’re better off chatting about your latest Netflix binge than debating healthcare reform.

Step 4: Don't Take Things Personally
In-laws are like anyone else—they’re flawed, human, and sometimes say cringeworthy things. Instead of stewing over that passive-aggressive comment about your cooking, try mindfulness or journaling. Remember, the only opinions that matter are yours and your partner’s.

Step 5: Find Common Ground
Turns out your father-in-law loves the same sci-fi series as you? Jackpot. Focus on shared interests and build the relationship from there.

Final Pro Tip: Be patient. Good in-law relationships take time. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your bond with your MIL.

PARENTING

Homework help.

Homework time doesn't have to feel like a battle. With a few strategic moves, you can turn those homework hassles into manageable tasks that help your child thrive. Here’s how to make the homework routine smoother for both of you!

1. Establish a Homework Routine
Setting a routine is crucial. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Choose a Location: Find a dedicated spot in your home. Whether it's a quiet corner of their bedroom or the family dining table, make sure it's clutter-free and conducive to focus.

  • Create a Homework Center: Equip the space with all necessary supplies—pencils, paper, and maybe a little decor to make it cozy.

  • Set a Homework Time: Consistency is key. Decide whether your child works best right after school or post-dinner. Ideally, try to get it done before bedtime!

  • Daily Schedule: Sit down together to map out assignments and deadlines. Having a visual plan keeps everything organized.

2. Incentive Systems
Not all kids are motivated by grades alone. Here’s how to incentivize:

  • Simple Rewards: Think fun activities post-homework—like watching a favorite show or playing a game.

  • Elaborate Systems: For bigger challenges, consider a point system where they earn privileges. Collaborate with your child on this for better buy-in!

3. Encourage Effort Over Perfection
Instead of criticizing mistakes, focus on progress. Ask, “What did you learn from that?” Mistakes are learning opportunities, not failures.

4. Model Good Habits
While your child tackles homework, dive into your own tasks—like paying bills or reading. Your focus can inspire theirs!

For more tips, check out this homework planner and incentive sheet.

With these strategies, homework time can become a breeze instead of a chore! 🍏📚

Upgrade Your Sanctuary with Cozy Earth Bamboo Viscose Sheet Set

After a busy day, there's nothing better than unwinding in bed, catching up on your favorite show, and simply chilling out. But for true relaxation, ordinary sheets just won't cut it - you deserve the pinnacle of luxury.

Introducing Cozy Earth sheets.

Crafted from 100% premium bamboo viscose, a soft and sustainable fabric, these sheets offer unrivaled softness that will make it hard to leave your bed in the morning. Plus, they're designed to become even cozier with every wash, ensuring years of blissful sleep.

Experience the height of comfort with Cozy Earth sheets, and with their 100-night risk-free trial, you can try them out with complete peace of mind.

ALSO THIS

How 'Bout Them Apples?

Fall has officially arrived, and you know what that means—apple season is here! If you’re looking for some tasty recipe inspiration, check out these apple-inspired delights:

  1. Apple, Cheddar and Brie Grilled Cheese: This isn’t your average grilled cheese. The combo of sweet apples, sharp cheddar, and creamy brie takes it to the next level. Make it here.

  2. Apple Cream Cheese Bars: Crisp apples layered with a rich, creamy filling and buttery crust? Yes, please! These bars only get better after a day in the fridge. Get the recipe!

  3. Apple Cheddar Sausage Balls: Breakfast just got an upgrade with these savory bites combining apple, cheddar, and sausage. Perfect with your morning coffee! Try them here.

  4. Apple Cheddar Turkey Burgers: These turkey burgers are a fall favorite, featuring the delicious duo of apple and cheddar topped with sautĂŠed red onions. Whip them up!

  5. 5-Minute Homemade Cinnamon Applesauce: Kids will love helping with this no-cook, five-minute applesauce. Quick, easy, and tasty! Check it out.

  6. The Best Apple Cobbler: Comfort food alert! This apple cobbler is easier and quicker than pie—what’s not to love? Find the recipe here.

  7. Apple Butter: Whip up a batch of this quick apple butter in just 35 minutes with only five ingredients. It’s a must for toast or grilled cheese sandwiches. Get the recipe!

Dig in and enjoy the best flavors of autumn! 🍏🍂

TikTok is buzzing with the “she deserved the purse” trend, ignited by Danaesha Gonzalez’s touching moment in a supermarket. After spotting a mom torn between a luxury handbag and baby essentials, viewers jumped into action, surprising struggling moms by hiding cash and gift cards in baby formula lids and diaper boxes. It’s a heartwarming wave of kindness that’s transforming shopping dilemmas into opportunities for community support!

SNIPPETS

The FDA has approved FluMist for self- or caregiver-administration, making it the first influenza vaccine that does not require a healthcare provider for administration. Initially approved in 2003 for ages 5 to 49 and expanded to include children ages 2 to 5 in 2007, FluMist offers a safe and effective option for seasonal flu vaccination, increasing convenience and accessibility for families.

In celebration of "Friends" 30th anniversary, a new game show called "Fast Friends" is set to premiere on Max. This four-part competition will take place inside The “Friends” Experience: The One in New York, allowing fans to engage in trivia and puzzles based on iconic moments from the beloved sitcom.

Climbing stairs is highlighted as an effective exercise for burning calories, as research indicates you burn about 20 times more calories climbing stairs compared to walking on flat ground. Even descending stairs burns roughly five times more calories, making stair climbing an accessible and cost-free workout option.

Must-Have Car Accessories to Keep You Organized and Stress-Free During Carpool Season

As the school year kicks off and extracurricular activities ramp up, many of us are living that chauffeur life. To keep you clean, organized, safe, and sane during those endless carpool sessions, check out these must-have car accessories!

Car Trash Can
Say goodbye to clutter! This leakproof trash can straps onto your headrest or center console, keeping your car tidy. Bonus: it doubles as extra storage or a cooler when you’re not collecting trash.

Tray/Cup Holder
Transform your existing cup holder into a convenient tray! Perfect for snacks and drinks, this accessory is a lifesaver for kids in car seats.

Car Tissue Holder
No more searching for tissues while driving! This easy-to-reach tissue holder attaches to your sun visor, keeping you prepared for any mess.

Drop Stop - The Original Patented Car Seat Gap Filler
Tired of losing things between the seats? The Drop Stop fills that pesky gap, so you can say goodbye to fishing around for change, pens, and phones.

NOCO Boost Plus GB40 Portable Lithium Jump Starter
Never get stranded by a dead battery again! This compact jump starter is portable and can give your car a boost without needing another vehicle.

Blind Spot Convex Car Mirror
Increase your visibility and drive with confidence! Attach these blind-spot mirrors to reduce those dangerous blind spots and keep an eye on what's around you.

Stock up on these accessories, and you’ll be well-equipped for all your driving duties this school year!

🍂 Creative canvas. Try this fun fall tape resist art project for kids to unleash their inner artists!

🌽 Maze-ing adventure. Explore the 2024 theme of the world’s largest corn maze for a fun-filled day!

🍁 Fall flavor fest. Get ready for Trader Joe’s Fall 2024 drop that everyone has been waiting for!

📚 Sing it out! Discover how Ms. Rachel’s first-ever children’s book encourages speech development through song!

👖 Denim revival. Check out the best denim trends of Fall 2024 that are making a stylish comeback!

✨ Annalee and Karin ✨

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