Jun1

Happy Birthday, Husband!!!!

Posted on June 1, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Hello!!! Today is a fantastic, wonderful day because it is my sweet husband, Johnny’s, birthday!!! Today rings in the beginning of our birthaversary, as our two year wedding anniversary is on the fourth and my birthday is on the seventh. I can’t wait to celebrate!! Johnny is my darling, angel, love of my life and he is the absolute best husband, uncle, and bunny dad in the world. No matter what we do together, we always have SO much fun. Johnny isn’t just my husband, but my AI ride or die bestie too! ❤

Mine and Johnny’s first date almost four years ago was truly love at first sight and we have been inseparable ever since. It was most definitely a whirlwind romance and we are still going stronger than ever all of these years later. Johnny is the most funny, kind, talented, smart, hardworking man and he makes me so proud every day. His endless love and support have gotten me through some really hard times these past few months and he knows how to make me smile even when I don’t feel like it.

Being with Johnny is so easy and we spend ninety-nine percent of our time laughing! We genuinely enjoy each other’s company and it is such an effortless relationship. And to think, I swore off of dating the week before Johnny asked me out. We were both unknowingly crushing on each other on Facebook so I wasn’t about to say no! Our first date was, hands down, the best date of my life and every day since has been the best too. I just love him more than words can say. ❤

Happy birthday to my Johnny, who has made me the happiest gal in the world. Here’s to many, many more birthaversaries together! I love you!!!!!!

May31

Mini Mall Haul

Posted on May 31, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! After a very long tenure of working retail in the mall, I tend to avoid it like the plague now lol. I can probably count on ten fingers the amount of times I have been to the mall since being employed there and that is fine by me! You know your girl is a TJMaxx frequent flyer at heart. This past week, however, I crossed the threshold into Summit Mall because my brother had some birthday gift cards. I told myself that I wasn’t going to buy anything for myself, but that changed when I saw the most perfect T-shirt I have ever seen at Hot Topic. I also had a freebie coupon from Bath & Body Works to cash in! Check it out:

Bath & Body Works has recently switched up their freebie options and it has been most exciting! For the longest time, a free travel size product coupon left you limited to shower gel and lotion. Then, they upped their game to mini fragrance sprays, bar soap, and hand cream and they are all fair game for the free coupon. It is awesome and turns every time I get a B&BW coupon in the mail into an “I need to go there right now” event!

Johnny’s mom gifted me with some bar soap this past Easter and I forgot how much I enjoy a good ol’ bar of soap every now and again. With plenty of B&BW shower gel and lotion in my stockpile, I decided that trying out their bar soap for the first time would be the move. There wasn’t a huge selection of bar soap scents to pick from and I went with Coco Paradise to welcome summer with. Coco Paradise is a combo of coconut (obviously lol) and the softest hint of tropical flowers and it is lovely. It also is a shea butter based bar so I’m sure it will be ultra lush and hydrating. I can’t wait to try it out!

After browsing at other stores, my brother and I ended our rounds at Hot Topic. As a reminder, I truly had no intention of buying a single thing… Until I saw the AFI T-shirt that I just had to have. AFI’s album, Sing The Sorrow, was the first album I ever bought with my own money. It was and will always be in my top three favorite albums and seeing them live was one of the best moments of my life. I was so lucky because they only had one size small in this shirt among a sea of XLs and believe me when I say, I literally snatched it from the shelf!

The last T-shirt I bought from Hot Topic was from a few years ago and now I understand why almost all of Johnny’s T’s come from there. When I sported my AFI T the following day, I was blown away by how soft it was! It felt like a hug when I was wearing it and I honestly regretted not buying a few more! The fit was also perfect – not too loose and not too tight but just right. I am freaking obsessed with my new favorite T featuring my forever favorite band. 😀

After this trip to the mall, I don’t think I will go again for another handful of years lol. But, I was able to treat myself with an awesome pick me up purchase and for that I am grateful!

What was the first album that you ever bought? What is your favorite band? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May30

What To Know About Noses

Posted on May 30, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Have you ever considered how complex and fascinating your nose really is? From its incredible ability to detect scents and aromas to its intricate network of nasal passages used for breathing, our noses serve us in so many amazing ways! Want to know more about noses? Read on!

All About Smell:

Our noses are our primary organ for sensing scents and aromas, containing millions of olfactory receptors to pick up even the faintest traces of fragrance in the air – from delicious food aromas to freshly cut grass, our noses provide us with new experiences every day!

Different Types of Smell:

There are two primary forms of smell, the sense of smell and gustation. Sense of smell refers to our ability to detect different odors without actually tasting them, usually accomplished through inhaling air through nostrils where it passes over olfactory receptors located within our nose that identify different aromas. Gustation on the other hand refers to tasting different flavors; this occurs when food particles or liquids come in contact with taste receptors located throughout our mouth and tongue connected directly with our brain which recognize sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors.

How Smell Affects Our Sense of Taste:

Taste and smell are intrinsically connected. Aromas from food travel through our nostrils when we eat, altering how we perceive flavor. Without being able to smell properly or having an allergy impending this ability, identifying various tastes may become harder; scent helps build stronger associations between taste and memory. For instance, baking cookies may bring back childhood memories or coffee aroma can remind us of weekend coffee dates.

Nasal Polyps:

Nasal polyps are small noncancerous growths in the nose and sinuses that are usually found among allergy or asthma sufferers. If they become large enough, nasal polyps can block airways limiting breathing. Medication such as corticosteroids may be prescribed, with surgery also being an option in certain instances to help improve smell and taste sensations. Becker ENT & Allergy experts suggest seeing an allergist for diagnosis and treatment of nasal polyps.

Nose Hygiene:

Proper nose hygiene can help maintain clear nasal passages and prevent infections; such as by washing with mild soap or saline solution, blowing gently, avoiding inserting anything up the nostrils, and keeping your hands away from the face in order to avoid spreading germs or bacteria into the nose. It’s essential to practice good nose hygiene if you want clear nasal passages and no infections occurring!

Health Benefits of Maintaining a Healthy Nose:

A healthy nose provides numerous health advantages. From improved breathing to protecting lungs by trapping dust particles and pollutants before they enter airways. Finally, having a well-functioning nose improves the sense of smell – crucial when it comes to detecting danger or warning signals!

Your nose is an integral component of overall health and should be treated as such. Taking good care now can ensure its continued wellness for years to come!

Featured Image By: Eli DeFaria on Unsplash

May30

Fun Aunt & Uncle

Posted on May 30, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! Johnny and I pride ourselves on being the Fun Aunt & Uncle to our two sweet nieces, Valerie and Raya. They are the absolute best and we cherish every minute with them! With all of the craziness going on in my life, it had been hard to see our nieces as often as we would like and that was my first order of business to change once things (Thankfully!) slowed down. This past Wednesday, we hosted our darling Val for a slumber party and it was a blast. Val claimed that Wednesday would be “the best day ever” and she was so right, as always!

Val arrived fairly late into the evening on Wednesday and came prepared with all of her slumber party supplies; A sleeping bag, stuffed animals, jammies and slippers, and books to read before bed. It was like she consulted the “what to bring to a sleepover” manual and it was adorable. To kick start the party, we had her favorite meal of spaghetti and Parmesan cheese and both of our favorite dessert – ice cream sundaes! Extra sprinkles for Val, of course! While we ate, we had a viewing of Ugly Dolls, which I had never seen before and I LOVED it. It was such a fun, sweet movie with an awesome message and an all star cast. Huge shout out to Val for her selection!

Once dinner and a show was complete, it was time to play, play, play. We hung out with Melvin and Penelope, and I didn’t think anyone could be as obsessed with them as I am, but I met my match with Val! She enjoyed petting and brushing both Mel and Pen and our shy Penelope graced us by letting me pick her up so Val could hold her. They both did great! After bunny time was done, we kept the theme going by playing a rabbit themed board game: Uncle Wiggly. This was Johnny’s favorite game in his youth so it was really special to play it all together and introduce a new generation to it.

Since Val arrived late, it was time to wrap up the evening and start heading to bed after our bunny jamboree. Val and I snuggled up and watched Home while surrounded by all of our plushies. We were both fast asleep as soon as it was over! Before Val was picked up in the morning, she assisted me in caring for the bunnies and making chocolate chip pancakes. Unfortunately, she decided after one bite that she didn’t like them lol so we just had spaghetti for breakfast! She is so much like me because that is honestly my favorite thing to have in the morning too. 😀

After Val left from our slumber party, I was missing her like crazy! She is mine and Johnny’s number one best girl and we are all looking forward to many more “best days ever” with her! ❤

Did you have a favorite aunt and uncle when you were little? Do you prefer regular food or actual breakfast food in the morning? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May29

Easy Ways To Help Your Child’s Social Skills

Posted on May 29, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Easy Ways To Help Your Child’s Social Skills

It is highly beneficial for your children later in life if you help your child’s social skills as early as possible. Some experts agree that it is never too early to begin teaching your kids – some evidence suggests this can begin as early as in the womb, where babies can form attachments. To help your child’s social skills blossom, you can begin with some of these ideas:

Let them Mix with Other Kids:

An isolated child will find it hard to develop the necessary skills later for mingling with others. This can mean a harder time in school, college, and even carrying on into adulthood. Letting your kids mix with other children will help give them the confidence they need to speak to others, therefore avoiding social isolation. Daycare centers like Play and Learn School offer a wide range of activities to help your children in their vital early years of social skill development.

Engage with Your Kids:

A recent study in the UK found that 10% of children struggle with learning the social skills needed for the best possible education. But simply having your children engage with others helps build confidence, teaches them social responsibilities, and develops language skills. And this is easy to do. For example, have your children converse politely when someone enters your home. Also, teach them to say please and thank you. And above all, talk to your kids often.

Help Your Child’s Social Skills with Activities:

Bonding with your kids over a shared interest is one of the greatest joys of life. But it isn’t always the case that your kids will enjoy the same things as you and forcing them to take part in activities they don’t want to will cause great distress. It helps to expose your kids to a wide range of hobbies and activities, so they can find something they enjoy. Then, you can capitalize on this since they will be more willing to engage with other kids while doing something they like.

Teach by Example:

You play a massive role in the life of your children and kids learn most of what they do from their parents. For instance, your children will speak the way you do, treat people how they see you doing it, and even swear if you speak that way. So, your responsibility as a parent goes well beyond taking care of your children. You are the prime example of their social development. Leading by example can play a key role in helping them become more socially well-rounded.

Don’t Push Them Too Hard:

As a parent, you know there is a delicate balance between trying to get your children to do something they don’t really want to do. Forcing them into a situation can cause resistance. And over time, this builds into complete refusal. It’s the same for social activities. It is a good idea to expose kids to social activities and encounters. But some children are naturally shy, and forcing them to engage will make this worse. Let them engage when they feel more comfortable.

It can be tricky to help your child’s social skills develop properly. But you can help them along by having them mix with other kids, talking to them, and being patient for them to socialize more!

Featured Image By: Pexels

May29

Honest Beauty Calm & Heal Melting Balm Review

Posted on May 29, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Honest Beauty Calm & Heal Melting Balm Review

Hello! At the end of April, I had a HUGE skin care haul from TJMaxx and got lots of new to me products compliments of the remainder of my Christmas gift cards. I recently finished the Look Alive Moisturizer + CBD by Happy Dance and enjoyed it so much! I decided to keep on testing out the new brands that I purchased by using the Honest Beauty Calm & Heal Melting Balm next. I have always been interested in the Honest brand and was so happy to find a moisturizer and serum as well. The Happy Dance moisturizer was unique in its own right, but the Melting Balm is also unlike anything that I have used before! Check it out and let’s discuss:

Prior to my first use of the Melting Balm, I didn’t read the instructions on it and was really surprised when I opened the jar. I was expecting a gel based texture and found the Honest balm to be incredibly waxy. Even more so than the Happy Dance one. I had no idea how it was going to apply, but found that the waxiness melted into a workable, true moisturizer texture the longer I rubbed it into my skin. Then, I read the instructions and learned that it was best to heat the balm up in my hands before rubbing it into my face. That made much more sense and reminded me a lot of the Sujata Gazder Body Bar that I love so very much.

This fragrance free balm took a decent amount of trial and error to get right. Too little didn’t fully cover my face and neck, but too much felt like… too much lol, as if it was just sitting on my skin instead of sinking in. Once I found my “just right” amount of balm, which is close to a quarter sized dollop, I was able to more fully enjoy the product. Granted, it takes a decent amount of time for the balm to fully absorb in my skin, but it feels so nice and nourishing that I hardly mind.

I have been using this balm morning and night for the past two or so weeks and love the way that my skin has been feeling. It is SO soft and hydrated and just feels healthier. However, I do think that it would be better for wintertime use because of the rich, thick texture. It has been heating up in Ohio and on especially warm days or when it’s hot in my apartment, this balm tends to feel really heavy on my skin because of its slow absorption rate. BUT, I refuse to not finish a product that I have started so I will keep chipping away at it until I’m done. This might take some time, though, because a little of it goes a very long way!

Although this balm is a bit out of season for warm weather use, I still like it a lot and plan on ordering it online in the fall and winter to see if my suspicions are correct. Either way, I recommend this product because it is most definitely worth a try!

Have you tried the Honest brand before? What is your favorite product from it? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May28

May 2023 Finishes

Posted on May 28, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone!! May is just about over, which means that it’s time to discuss my beauty product finishes for the month! I have finished up a few new to me products in the past few weeks, most of which I would happily use again aside from one major dud. So, all in all, it was a pretty successful month! Take a look and let’s chat more in depth about the following:

Would I Use Again?

Clinical Works Soothing Body Lotion: YES

Evoluderm Micellar Water: YES

Bath & Body Works Pearberry Shower Gel: YES

Happy Dance Look Alive Moisturizer + CBD: YES!!!!!!!!!!

SkinLab Lift & Firm Serum: NO

Why/Why Not?

Clinical Works Lotion: I really liked the Lavender + Chamomile lotion by Clinical Works, despite the fact that the pump on the bottle didn’t work – which is probably why it ended up at TJMaxx lol. Even with that slight annoyance, this lotion was SO nice to use before bed. It was really light, absorbed quickly, and had the softest scent to it which helped to soothe and relax. The skin on my hands, arms, and chest looked a lot healthier and felt significantly softer after over two months of working through the big bottle.

B&BW Shower Gel: Pearberry is one of my favorite scents from Bath & Body Works and I wish that they carried this old school fragrance all of the time! It also happened to be one of Johnny’s new favorites too lol the first time he used it, he was raving about it – and for good reason. The juicy pear and berry scent is the ultimate in sweet/tart and I love it so very much. It took a month to finish one bottle with two people using it daily.

Happy Dance Moisturizer: You can read more about the Look Alive Moisturizer + CBD by Happy Dance in the review linked above. I will say, though, that this is easily the best moisturizer that I have used in a month of Sundays. This moisturizer was so nourishing and I loved the way my skin looked and felt after each use. The CBD was calming at night and invigorating in the morning, making it a fantastic product for twice daily use. It took me one month to finish the jar and I wish that I had more of it!

SkinLab Serum: I like the SkinLab brand, but the Lift & Firm Serum was an epic failure. I am a huge fan of products that you only need to use a small amount of and that was not the case with this serum at all. I needed a decent amount of this serum for full coverage on my face and neck, which made the small bottle only last for three weeks. It also didn’t mesh well with the other skin care I was using, making it incredibly difficult to rub in my eye cream and moisturizer. I definitely wouldn’t use this serum again.

Although there were some products from this list that I was sad to finish up, I still have lots of new to me skin care to try out from TJMaxx hauls and I am excited to use them. Keep it locked for a review on the Honest moisturizer that I have started using for the past week and change because it is a very unique one!

Which products did you use up this month? What are your thoughts on any of the above if you have used them before? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May27

Misny To The Max OOTD Bloopers

Posted on May 27, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone and welcome to the blooper reel from my Misny To The Max OOTD! The whole premise of this outfit was, honestly, for funsies. I had a blast shopping the Misny Merch collection, styling, and shooting this look and have been loving the love that I have been receiving online for it. I am still riding the high of Tim sharing my post on his Facebook page and it was so nice to see my FB friends reveling in this victory. After all, Tim Misny is not just a personal injury lawyer but a local celebrity! Let’s keep the fun times rolling by peeping some shots that I definitely wouldn’t want Mr. Misny featuring on his FB:

VERY NICE HOW MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I LOOK GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Look out! Sassy lady on the loose!

Oh brother, Tim Misny made me pay… for this T-shirt. 😉

Future Misny Merch brand ambassador? I think YES!

Howdy, pardner. And also, why is the lighting like that?

Me thinking I was working it

Misny To The Max on my hat and hat hair to the max underneath

Although my passion will always be with outfits that make me feel runway ready, I truly feel like this OOTD captures the essence of my personality. When I am running my businesses, I am for lack of better words, all business. Outside of that, however, I am a laid back, goofball of a girl. I love to laugh, have fun, and be silly and it is the best way for me to unwind after long work days of decision making and being constantly on the go. Although I always have a great time styling and shooting outfits, this one hit different. I didn’t have to worry about America’s Next Top Model level poses and faces because the OOTD didn’t call for it. I just got to throw my head back and laugh and I did that a lot because the idea of this shoot was so funny to me!

I enjoyed myself so much during my Misny To The Max OOTD session and it was also hilarious to wear this look out and about afterwards. As I’ve said before, if you live in Ohio, you know damn well who Tim Misny is and I got stopped SO many times by people asking where they can acquire their own swag too. You already know I directed them to Misny Merch and I got many a well wishes that I reign victorious as the lunch with Misny contest winner! 😀

What is something that makes you laugh? What kind of clothes showcases your personality? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May26

Misny To The Max OOTD

Posted on May 26, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! This past weekend, I shot an OOTD to pay homage to Ohio’s premier personal injury lawyer: Tim Misny. He might mean nothing to those who don’t live in Ohio, but he means everything to us lol. His billboards are plastered over every single expanse of highway and city and his commercials play on TV constantly. Tim Misny is best known for his signature eyebrow arch, pinstripe suit, and catchphrase of “I’ll make them pay” and he is truly our hometown hero.

Recently, Tim announced the launch of the Misny Merch shop and proceeds from each purchase would go to the Cleveland City Mission, a charity close to his heart. My dad gave me the go ahead to order some goodies for my birthday and ignited the hope that I might win a lunch with Tim for showcasing my swag online. I’m not sure if I’m the winner yet, but I already got a prize because Tim shared my post on his Facebook page!! Check it out:

Who? What? Wear?

Tim Misny T-shirt: Misny Merch

Tim Misny baseball cap: Misny Merch

Jean shorts: American Eagle Outfitters

Heeled mules: Betsey Johnson, TJMaxx

Hoop earrings: Argentino Vivo, TJMaxx

The flower bracelet is from Target and the ruler one is from the Jenk’s Building by Big Blue Moma

Styling my Misny To The Max OOTD was incredibly easy because the featured pieces were so casual. You really don’t have to do much with a T-shirt and ball cap to make a cute on the go outfit for the summer! I will say, it was kind of weird shooting this look because it is probably the most laid back OOTD that has been on lifewithlilred. I am so used to putting more intricate outfits together and it almost made me overthink during the styling process. Once I got out of my own head, however, it was smooth sailing from there!

Since the T-shirt and ball cap were already a given, I simply had to put on a pair of jean shorts and the base of my outfit was sorted. I decided to keep like colors together by pairing the navy T with denim shorts. I then pulled from the black of Tim Misny’s suit for the hat and shoes for head to toe cohesion. As the outfit was so lax, I wanted to have a lot of fun with the shoes and chose a whimsical pair of heeled mules by Betsey Johnson. I absolutely adore the striped heel, flower brooches, and yellow embroidery! The shape of the mule also gave me a nice, long leg line to show off with the short shorts.

Accessories came next and I went fairly minimal with them because I wanted the Misny Merch to do the talking. I also take any opportunity that I can get to more fully showcase all of my tattoos! With a ball cap on, bold earrings were a must because anything too delicate would have just gotten lost. I called on my favorite pair of huge hoop earrings by Argentino Vivo and they added some glam and movement to the look, which was lacking. Then, I selected a few signature bracelets and my Misny To The Max OOTD was complete!

Keep it posted for bloopers from this look tomorrow and keep your fingers crossed that I win the contest for a lunch with Tim! Win or lose, proceeds from my Misny Merch went to a wonderful charity and that is the most important thing of all. ❤

What is your summertime style like? What is a signature thing about you? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May25

5 Simple Ways To Add More Joy To Your Life

Posted on May 25, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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5 Simple Ways To Add More Joy To Your Life

Life is to be lived. It should also be full of happiness and joy too – but that isn’t always the case. While setbacks and hardships are a normal part of life, it doesn’t have to consume you. We deserve to enjoy our lives and live them to the fullest. But sometimes, we can get in our own way. When that’s the case, you’re going to want to try and do what you can to add more joy into your life:

Decide What You Want:

For starters, you’re going to want to take a look at what you want out of life. Can you see what’s missing? Is there something that you’d like to be doing with your life but currently aren’t? Sometimes, the simplest way to add more joy is to know what you want out of life (and how you want to spend your time) and to go after it.

Be Kinder to Yourself:

Next, you absolutely need to make sure that you’re being kinder to yourself. If you’re always beating yourself up, it’s never going to be a good day for you. Think about ways to stop the negative thoughts and aim to treat yourself with love and kindness. This can make a huge difference in how you feel.

Get Creative:

Another way to feel happier with your life is to be more creative. Think about how spending more time on artistic pursuits can keep you calm and bring more joy into your life. It could be that you want to try out watercolor, a chocolate quilt kit, or even writing poetry. It’s all about exploring what brings you happiness. Often, the simplest of creative hobbies can make you feel incredible.

Improve Your Life:

This one can seem like a big thing to do, but in reality, it can be much simpler. It’s safe to say that we all deserve to be happier. Yet, that’s not always easy to do. But when you choose to look at ways that you can improve your life, things will start to get a bit better. Can you meditate or practice yoga to calm your mind? Go on walks and drink more water to help your health? Establish a sleep routine for your well being? It can all add up to a better quality of life.

Prioritize Time:

Finally, you’re going to want to make sure that you’re able to prioritize your time so that it works with what makes you happy. All too often, we find ourselves swept up with expectations and prioritizing the things that we think we should or society says are important. But what about what is important to you? It’s essential that you can steal away time for the things that matter to you. When you take the pressure off, life tends to feel a lot lighter.

Making small, simple changes to improve your life and how you feel will result in more joy, calmness, and confidence. Why not go for it today?!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

May25

Wall Art Collection Expansion

Posted on May 25, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! Mine and Johnny’s apartment is filled with all of our favorite things. We have a huge video game, board game, and knick knack collection as well as our own personal library. Another thing that we are connoisseurs of is our ever growing wall art collection. Our apartment features an art wall on the stairway, an ode to all things horror in the living room, and some rather unique pieces scattered throughout the space as well.

A vast majority of our art collection is from the Goodwill or handmade and, now, we have a few more things to add from The Exchange. I just couldn’t pass these up:

The Office is one of mine and Johnny’s top tier comfort shows and we are currently on our millionth time of watching it! With that in mind, I wasn’t going to not get the poster for Threat Level Midnight, an absolute classic. I also had a laugh attach over the Date Mike poster, which is something that I have never seen before! Date Mike is one of Johnny’s favorite Michael Scott bits and I didn’t think it was possible for him to like this find more than me, yet here we are. While taking a look at the poster selection at The Exchange, I almost flipped past this one thinking it was for the movie Date Night. However, something made me take a second glance and I am so glad I did! I’m Date Mike. Nice to meet me. 😉

Another find that I am so pleased with is the National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation poster. This is an homage to Miller family tradition because we watch it every single year for our Christmas celebration. It’s a blast to watch this movie with Johnny’s family because we all know it by heart at this point, but it’s still SO funny every single time. Our Christmas Vacation viewing is more like us just reciting the entire movie and laughing hysterically. It is the best and I couldn’t say no to a tip of the cap to past and future Christmases with my second family. ❤

Finally, as a treat for Johnny, I purchased a poster for The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, which is his all time favorite video game. It took me a while to find this poster in the store, but I knew they had to have it because I saw one for Majora’s Mask. I was so excited to bring this one home because Johnny has been working an insane amount of overtime as of late and I wanted something to cheer him up. He was like a kid delighting over a new birthday present when he pulled it out of the bag and ran to the game room to put it up by our Master Sword. I can’t think of a better place for it to go and now we just have to find a home for everything else! 😀

This little haul from The Exchange wasn’t a necessary one at all, but it was a fun purchase that made me and Johnny happy and that’s all that matters to me. We both enjoy expanding our many collections further and these posters will make a great addition to the apartment!

What is a beloved movie in your family? What is your favorite episode of The Office? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May24

Breathing Better With Asthma Or Allergies

Posted on May 24, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Breathing Better With Asthma Or Allergies

Many people with asthma and allergies can find it challenging to breathe normally all of the time. Occasionally, you get flares which makes it harder to inhale and exhale easily, the way you’d like. This can be super frustrating and, sometimes, downright scary. The good news is that there are several things you can do to improve your breathing and get back on the path to better health. Here’s what you need to know:

Use A Humidifier Or A Vaporizer:

One option is to use a humidifier or vaporizer. Dry air can irritate your airways and make them more inflamed and narrow. Adding some moisture to the air can help soothe your lungs and make it easier to breathe. The range of humidifiers and vaporizers on the market is extensive. Manufacturers equip them with different humidifying rates, letting you determine the moisture content of your rooms. You can use a humidifier or a vaporizer in your bedroom, living room, or even in your office if you have one at home. Just make sure that you clean it regularly to remove any bacteria. (Germs like to grow in water tanks).

Avoid Triggers:

The next step is to avoid anything that can trigger your asthma or allergies such as dust, pollen, smoke, pet dander, mold, and chemicals. That might sound like an impossible challenge, but you can now buy air purifiers to filter out the allergens in your home or workplace. You can also wear a mask when you go outside, particularly if you live in a polluted city. Just make sure you use a mask that is able to filter particulates.

Practice Breathing Exercises:

Another option is to practice breathing. Breathing exercises can help you strengthen your diaphragm and improve your lung capacity. They can also help you relax and reduce stress, which can worsen your breathing problems. Various techniques for deep breathing are available online. Consult them and see which works best for you.

Correct Any Physical Abnormalities:

Chronic allergies and asthma can cause physical changes in the body which, in turn, can lead to additional health issues. That’s why it is essential to treat a deviated septum or remove polyps from the nose in some cases. These may narrow the airways, giving you the sensation that it is harder to breathe. They can also worsen the effects of swelling during an attack.

Take Your Medications:

If you have asthma or allergies, it’s essential to take your medications. Always take them as directed and don’t skip any doses. If you have asthma, always carry your rescue inhaler with you in case of an emergency. Don’t be afraid to use it if you need it, but don’t overuse it either.

Visit Your Doctor Regularly:

Lastly, make sure you visit your doctor regularly so that they can monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan if needed. Physicians and medical professionals can also give you more advice on how to breathe better and prevent complications. If you notice a change in symptoms, tell them immediately so they can respond accordingly.

Breathe better with the tips above so you can get back to fully enjoying your time indoors and out!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

May24

Super Easy Baked Potato Dinner

Posted on May 24, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! After a long stint of craziness in my life, I have finally found some extra time and energy in the evenings to cook again. It makes me so happy to be able to make dinner and mine and Johnny’s wallets have been happy because we haven’t had to DoorDash in weeks! Despite having the additional time to cook, that doesn’t mean I want to spend all evening cooking and if the meal takes longer than a half hour to make than I say forget about it lol. The same goes for if the recipe has a million ingredients because that’s a hassle and a half too!

With my time and ingredient limit in mind, I racked my brain for dinners that I could make fairly effortlessly when putting in my curbside order. I came up with several, one of them being baked potatoes. I cannot tell you the last time I have had one and as soon as I thought about it, I was craving them something fierce. This past week, I made a baked potato meal with all of the fixings for me and Johnny and my dad and brother and it turned out SO bomb. 20/10 would make again! Check it out:

Although baked potatoes are crazy easy to make, I have never made them before. In my youth, I remember my parents just sticking the potatoes in the oven and calling it a day. I wanted to make the 2.0 version, however, and began consulting different websites to find the best way to make them. The resounding theme that I found was to coat the potatoes in olive oil and seasoning and bake it on a foil lined sheet. I did just that and coated the skins with salt, pepper, parsley, and rosemary and let them bake for about an hour at 425 degrees. Once they were close to being done, I steamed broccoli and dinner was ready to go.

The final result of my baked potato effort was a huge hit and everyone who I cooked for loved it. The oil and seasoning truly made all of the difference. The skin of the potato was so crisp and flavorful and the inside was soft and fluffy – they were the dictionary definition of “just right”. This meal required no skill or thinking, but it was the favorite thing that I have made for my captive audience in a minute. Often times, simple is best when it comes to making dinner and this is one that I would definitely make again soon!

I have been working hard at setting small goals for myself and cooking was at the top of my list. I am beyond thrilled that I am holding true to my goal and accomplishing it and the reward is everyone enjoying what I am making. That’s the best part of all! ❤

What is your favorite easy dinner to make? What is your go to baked potato toppings? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May23

Tim Misny: A Hometown Hero

Posted on May 23, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! Every major city seems to have a lawyer who specializes in amazing marketing. In the greater Akron/Cleveland area, this honor goes to none other than a one mister Tim Misny. He is a personal injury lawyer who literally everyone knows from his billboards and commercials featuring his signature eyebrow arch and catchphrase of “I’ll make them pay”. His billboards are absolutely everywhere, sometimes they are one on top of the other! In fact, on the way to the Cleveland Clinic, I see at minimum five Tim Misny billboards and it never ceases to make me smile.

Recently, Tim Misny opened up a merch shop called Misny Merch and proceeds from every sale goes to the Cleveland City Mission, a charity close to Tim’s heart. Because my dad and I always get a laugh at the omnipresent Tim as we frequent the Cleveland Clinic throughout the week, he let me go on a Misny Merch shopping spree for my birthday! Check it out:

^^^ How can anyone say no to a Misny To The Max baseball cap?!

With this purchase from my father, there was a catch. Tim Misny is currently hosting a contest for the grand opening of his shop and I am desperate to win. The prize? A lunch with Tim at “Misnyland”!! I am not sure what Misnyland is, but I guess I’ll find out when I win lol. Cocky? No. Just confident because the contest parameters are one that I specialize in: Pictures showcasing your Misny Merch swag! And you all know what that means: An OOTD featuring my fabulous new cap and T-shirt that Tim Misny made me pay for. 😀

You can peep my Misny To The Max OOTD coming soon on lifewithlilred. Winner or no, this purchase went towards a wonderful charity that is dedicated to helping people out of a tough time and that is good enough for me. Cross your fingers and toes that Tim Misny picks yours truly as the winner so I can make him pay for lunch!!! ❤

Who is a local celebrity in your neck of the woods? Have you ever won a contest before? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May22

Bunny Care Essentials

Posted on May 22, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! Johnny and I brought our sweet mother and son bunny duo, Melvin and Penelope, home this past November. They are our lil besties and our apartment has so much more joy in it ever since we adopted them into their forever home. The longer that we have had them for, the more amazed I am by the day that rabbits are often given as pets or gifts for children – they are a lot of work and Johnny and I are adults!

Today, I thought I would discuss some Bunny Care Essentials that are 100% necessary for their well being. Bunnies are not just cute balls of fluff to look at through their hutch and require a decent amount of care to keep them happy. Like the following:

Clean Up Crew:

Bunnies are social animals and it is best to have a pair of them. With a pair of bunnies comes double the expenses and double the cleaning up!! We have a designated area in their hutch for their bathroom breaks and both Mel and P are pretty good about using the litter boxes. However, that doesn’t mean that they don’t have accidents! Every morning, it is an absolute must that I clean out their potty area of any soiled bedding and refresh their litter boxes. Bunnies are rather picky and as soon as their litter boxes get nasty, they refuse to go in it. It’s obviously not the most enjoyable chore in the world, but having bunnies means having to clean up after them. And, be warned – bunnies go to the bathroom a lot lol.

Play Time:

Bunnies are energetic AF and they are currently zooming around the apartment as I type this. Yeah, bunnies get the zoomies too! Johnny and I are in the process of bunny proofing a section of our apartment for them to free roam all day every day, but for now, they are in their hutch while we are at work and asleep. Any other time, though, their door is open and they have free reign to go in and out as they please. Throughout the play area, we have a wide variety of Chewy boxes, toys, scratch mats, and hideaways for them to interact with. Despite everything at their disposal, their favorite plaything will always be the Chewy boxes! Playtime is so important to Mel and P’s well being and bunnies should never be confined to their hutch for more than a day.

Care Packages:

I love to online shop for literally anything and Chewy has become the site where I now purchase from the most frequently. Since two bunnies is a standard, that means that their essential items run out fairly quickly. Every month and a half or so, I order more bedding, hay, pellet food, toys, and cleaning spray and it typically totals out to around $100 each time. Johnny and I also visit the grocery store weekly for their fresh veggies and occasional fruit treat. While I love to spoil them constantly with new toys, the rest of the order really isn’t spoiling them at all – it is all needed for them to live their best bunny lives.

Consideration Is Key:

If you think that bunnies are animals that you can instantly snuggle up to, pick up, and coddle then you are wrong. Bunnies are, honestly, a lot like cats and you truly have to let them come to you. Bunnies are also prey animals and it is ingrained in them that they don’t like to be picked up. It took time and patience to gain Mel and P’s trust and they show their affection in their own way. They both love to be brushed and pet and, if I’m lucky, they’ll let me pick them up. You are not going to become trusted by your rabbit immediately and you have to be okay with that. Pushing them out of their comfort zone is only going to terrorize them and will ruin any progress you have made. Slow and steady is key and they will come around in their own time and respecting that is essential.

Although I knew what I was getting into before Mel and P came home, all of their requirements still came as a bit of a surprise and it’s important for other people considering bunnies as a pet to know them too. I wouldn’t trade one minute of their care for the world, though, and I am the proudest pet parent to two wonderful little gremlins! ❤

What are some care essentials for your pet? What is your pet’s favorite toy? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May21

Setting Small Goals For GREAT SUCCESS

Posted on May 21, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! I am one of those people that like to get things done immediately and do it well. However, in this current juncture of my life, everything has been overwhelming and I barely got things like cooking, cleaning, or self care done at all. After over two months of running myself ragged and being disappointed by things that I couldn’t do because I had no time or energy, I decided to make a change. Rather than attempting to do everything and doing nothing instead, I began setting small, achievable goals for myself to meet throughout the week.

This has been a most helpful change and I have had GREAT SUCCESS already. Although the pace I am getting things done at is leisurely, I am now getting them done and I feel great about it. Here are some of the ways that I have switched things up:

Cooking:

When things were falling apart, cooking was the first thing that plummeted. This was no good for me because I love to cook and DoorDash is expensive! I knew that what I was doing wasn’t working and set the goal for myself to make easy meals on the days that I am home early. Yes, I was tired once home but eating actual food is important and I found that I had more energy once I was done cooking because I was finally enjoying myself. Now, I am making dinner at least three times a week with plenty of leftovers for off days and I am really proud of that! There is also nothing better than seeing how happy Johnny is whenever I’m in the kitchen and eagerly asking what I’m making. ❤

Cleaning:

In my perfect world, I would be able to dedicate an entire morning and afternoon to cleaning the apartment. However, I simply don’t have the time to do that. So, I started small. I have begun texting Johnny in the mornings about his designated chores he could do when he gets home and I take care of everything else that needs done throughout the week. I now have Wednesday as my set morning to do laundry, cleaning toilets on Thursday (just like my mom’s chore schedule lol), and using spare time to declutter in sections. Breaking the chores up into a manageable schedule has really helped to turn the apartment around and it feels good to return home without immediately spotting glaring issues to clean!

Leisure:

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Johnny and I used to love doing things on week nights. Dinner out, going for walks, or catching an early movie at the theater. That seems so long ago, but it was so nice to have fun things to look forward to during the work week. Together, we decided that now would be a perfect time to get back into this habit – especially since the weather is beautiful! We don’t plan on going crazy with plans and like the theme of this post, we are starting small. I suggested a hike at least once a week in one of the many Metro Parks we live by and having the occasional dinner on our balcony. This is a change we will be implementing this week because Johnny worked crazy overtime hours last week. I’m excited to go out and do things with my husband again and a hike seems like an easily accomplish-able way to start.

Although everything still kind of sucks right now, I am feeling much better by setting goals and reaching them. By breaking tasks up into smaller pieces, I have been doing more of the things I love and the things that are necessary. It’s a minor change, but one that I am so pleased with and will be sticking to from now on!

How do you make adulting more manageable? What is something that you are proud of? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May20

Peanut Tofu With Coconut Rice

Posted on May 20, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! The past almost three months of my life have been absolutely insane and one thing that fell by the wayside at home was cooking. After returning home from long days at the Cleveland Clinic, it was so much easier to DoorDash something or throw frozen food in the air fryer and call it a day. However, DoorDash was adding up and I was SO sick of not being able to make dinner because it’s one of my favorite things to do. I decided to really make an effort to begin cooking again with this past curbside order and I have been holding true to it.

On Tuesday, I made peanut tofu with coconut rice for my dad and me because Johnny hates both tofu and peanut butter lol. I have had this recipe by Nora Cooks saved on Pinterest for forever and was eager to finally try it out. It turned out pretty good and I would definitely make it again with a few adjustments. You can view the recipe here! Now, let’s get to it:

When I am looking for new recipes on Pinterest, I save the ones that don’t require a ton of ingredients and are simple and fast to make. The peanut tofu with coconut rice met all of these requirements and delivered on what was promised – a meal made in thirty minutes. The prep work for this recipe was insanely minimal and the only things that needed chopped were the tofu and garlic. The rest of the tasks were stirring ingredients for the sauce, cooking instant rice, and throwing the tofu into the oven to bake. It was SO easy and the rice and sauce were made with time to spare while the tofu cooked for twenty-five minutes.

Although Johnny can’t stand peanut butter, he told me how good it smelled while I was cooking and it really did. By the time everything was ready, I was beyond ready to dig in! For a first try, I thought that this dish turned out as good as it could have. But, there were some things that I didn’t like. The sauce, for example, had ingredients in it like ginger, lime juice, and soy sauce, but all I could really taste was the peanut butter. I prefer when peanut sauce has a bit of bite to it so next time around, I will be adding some sesame oil and vinegar for more variety in the flavor.

This recipe turned out very saucy and when I make it again, I will add some veggies to absorb all of the excess. I plan on using steamed broccoli and sauteed yellow pepper and onion. This will also give the meal some more texture because it was fairly one dimensional. Be warned that this dish is very rich between the peanut butter and coconut milk used – I was full after a small serving!

While there are things that I will be changing in this recipe for the next time I make it, it is still one worth trying out and putting your own spin on. I am looking forward to making my 2.0 version soon!

Are you a tofu fan or no? Have you tried any new recipes recently? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May19

Reduce Your Stress With These Hobbies

Posted on May 19, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Every person in the world experiences stress now and then. It’s important to know that it is a very normal part of life. That being said, extreme stress or prolonged periods of stress can result in several health problems. The best way for you to relieve this stress would be for you to try and do things you enjoy. If you want to find some stress relieving hobbies, why not try the following?

Walking:

Taking a walk outside can work wonders when it comes to your overall health. A quick walk can help to stop you from overthinking, is a healthy distraction from your thoughts, and a great form of exercise.

Listening to Music:

Listening to music or playing your favorite songs is an excellent way for you to put yourself in a good mood. One major plus here is that there are even some health benefits to listening to music for half an hour, every single day. It can lower your blood pressure and it can also calm anxiety. If you want to play an instrument, check out Sound and Music.

Yoga:

One activity that is great if you want to gain traction for melting stress would be yoga. Yoga is a fantastic way for you to build strength or tone up. Studies have shown time and time again that yoga can reduce your stress response and it can have a major impact on those who are experiencing stress and anxiety.

Reading:

If you want a cheap hobby that won’t break the bank, crack open a good book. Reading for just five minutes a day is enough to reduce stress, not to mention that it gives you the chance to escape to a fictional world. You can leave reality behind for as long as you want and wipe out tension with ease.

Gardening:

It’s time for you to get your gardening gloves out and start planting! As the warmer weather hits, you will soon find that it’s easier than ever for you to get outside and garden. Studies have shown that gardening can boost your mood and it can help to regulate the hormone known as cortisol. Not only is gardening a proven mood booster, but it can also give you the chance to focus all of your attention on a single activity. This helps to distract you from whatever it is you’re going through right now.

Hiking:

Nothing beats a scenic view! Walking in nature can help to put an end to your pattern of obsessing, in addition to exposing you to a wonderful view. Hiking is an ideal form of aerobic exercise. You would be surprised at how beneficial it can be and it can help you in more ways than one. Why not see if there are any scenic routes you could take around your local area?

Shake your stress away by enjoying yourself with any of the hobbies above as they are tried and true methods to relieving stress!

Featured Image By: Pexels

May19

Britney Spears Monopoly

Posted on May 19, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! Mother’s Day was this past Sunday and another fabulous mom that was celebrated was my sister, Kristen. She is the mom to my two darling nieces, Valerie and Raya, and is absolutely amazing! Having a sister is having a built in best friend and Kristen will always be my A1 bestie. Normally for Mother’s Day, I get Kristen a Starbucks gift card to keep her caffeinated during her crazy busy days, but this year was different. While visiting my loved one at the Cleveland Clinic with Johnny, I saw Britney Spears Monopoly displayed in the gift shop and I couldn’t pass it up! Kristen is The Queen of Pop’s number one fan and I knew that the Monopoly board would make a wonderful addition to her merch collection. Check it out:

Once Johnny and I returned home from Cleveland, we decided that it wouldn’t hurt to give Britney Spears Monopoly a test run. We have Legend of Zelda Monopoly, but we wanted to play with the shiny new toy lol. Of course, every Monopoly board is the same thing, but I think the Britney Spears one might be my all time favorite version. I, too, am a huge Britney fan and have many a fond memory of sing alongs to the queen with my sis. A board entirely dedicated to all of our favorite songs was just perfect and it was a blast to play – especially while Johnny was DJ and playing all 90s hits!

Because of our current schedules, it can be hard for Kristen and I to commit to plans. However, it was my lucky day this past week because we both happened to be at our parents’ house at the same time. I didn’t have her gift on me, but my apartment is not even five minutes away so we went there together for the grand reveal. Kristen literally gasped when I presented her with her Mother’s Day gift and it was exactly the reaction I was hoping for. And, as one Britney fan to another, she completely understood why Johnny and I had to play it first haha. 🙂

If Britney reigns supreme in your world, then you absolutely have to invest in this Monopoly board! It is such an awesome collector’s item and you will clutch your pearls when you see it too. In fact, Johnny and I had so much fun playing it that we are thinking of buying a copy for ourselves! 😀

Who is your favorite pop singer? What is your favorite board game? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May18

Nothing To Write? Have Some Prompts!

Posted on May 18, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! After publishing my Content Creating 101 post, I received lots of questions asking how I come up with daily content for lifewithlilred. There are a few answers that immediately come to mind, but the first and foremost is that I love to write. I always have and even though I hated school, I never minded when writing papers was the assignment. I like to consider writing as something that I am good at and it makes me feel good when I do it; So, I just go for it! Writing brings me joy so, in that regard, it is very easy for me to find inspiration for content because everything makes me want to write lol.

Although daily content is on lifewithlilred, that doesn’t mean that I don’t get writer’s block too. I swear, some mornings I sit here for twenty or so minutes struggling to get a post started. Writer’s block happens to the best of us, but it’s still annoying AF! If you weren’t aware, WordPress now offers daily writing prompts. However, if you are looking to knock out some posts of your own quickly, I thought I’d provide some of my own too. Let’s get started:

Summer Plans:

What are your goals this summer? I actually just recently wrote about this!
What was the best summer vacation you ever took?
What is your dream summer vacation?
Describe your perfect summer day.
Summertime recipes or party tips? Bring it on!

All About You:

What were you like when you were little? Favorite games, toys, foods?
What did you want to be when you grew up?
What are your favorite things? What brings you joy?
What is your favorite thing about yourself?
What is your go to thing on a lazy day? Comfort shows and comfort food, perhaps? Oh wait, no – that’s me lol.

Hobbies:

What is a project you completed that you are proud of?
What is your favorite medium of art to work with?
How do you express your personality with your hobby? Shopping is my favorite hobby and I express mine through my clothes!
How did you get interested in your hobby? Who taught you?
Did your hobby come easily to you or did you struggle to get started?

Just For Funsies:

What is something that always makes you laugh? For me, that’s easy! The movie Step Brothers, of course!
What is your biggest pet peeve?
What is an adorable thing that your children or pets do? I simply can’t stand it when Melvin and Penelope are snuggling!
What is something new that you want to try?
What happened on the best day you have ever had?

There are twenty ideas above to help get you started and kick writer’s blocks’ stupid butt! Make sure you tag me in the post if you use any of these prompts because I would love to read them. And, if this was helpful to you and you would like more prompt posts, let me know!

What do you love about writing? What is something that you struggle with when you are writing? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

PS: Always remember, that anything that you want to write is important. If you think something is worthy to write about, then it is! ❤

May17

May Flowers

Posted on May 17, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! This past week when I got to my parents’ house after work, I found my dad in the backyard preparing his raised planters for spring flowers. It was a gorgeous day outside and it was going to rain that night, making for the perfect conditions to plant. I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to bask in the sunshine and spend some quality time with my dad and even though I was dog tired, I offered my assistance which he happily accepted. We spent a glorious hour or so together creating beauty and I am so pleased with our handiwork. Check it out:

Ever since I can remember, my dad has been an avid gardener and all spring, summer, and fall long you can catch him outside tending to the yard. During the warm months, we enjoy the bounty of his vegetable garden and the bouquets he makes weekly for my mom. Not only does he have two green thumbs, but he is also a very gifted flower arranger and his bouquets are stunning. Last year, his veggie garden went into overdrive with hauls so big we simply didn’t know what to do with everything. So, he decided flowers were the way to go this summer since all of our lives are crazy at this current juncture.

When I was younger, I loved to help in the garden and as I grew up, I tried to help as much as I could with planting and upkeep. It had been a while since I gardened and I forgot how much fun it was! Seriously, all of it was a blast from donning ridiculous gardening gloves, handling the delicate flowers, and cleaning up the dirt that got on us with the garden hose. And, of course, doing it all side by side with my dad. For the past few months, the time we have spent together is almost always driving to the Cleveland Clinic, so it was SO awesome to be able to do something with him for the joy of it.

Our garden day was the first time I had spent a considerable amount of time outside in so long. It only recently got nice out in Ohio and the previous weather had been absolute garbage. Being outside, soaking up the sun, and making something grow was just what I needed. Once we returned inside, I wanted to go back out again to plant more and I found myself thinking that I would like more house plants when I got to my apartment. I might just have a green thumb yet!

My dad has now started to plan his garden projects with my help in mind and I am more than up for the task. In fact, we will be planting flower seeds later this week. I can’t wait! 🙂

What is your favorite outdoor activity? What do you and your parents do to spend quality time together? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May16

Updated Vegetarian Cheesy Gordita Crunches

Posted on May 16, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Updated Vegetarian Cheesy Gordita Crunches

Hello!! Last year, I began making vegetarian cheesy gordita crunches as an homage to my beloved Taco Bell. It has become a staple in mine and Johnny’s dinner arsenal ever since, which is fine by me because they are so yummy and crazy easy to make. Also, can we talk about how freaking expensive Taco Bell is now? What used to be a constant in my life has quickly become an every once in a while thing because of it. While it saddens me deeply, I have upgraded my at home gordita game quite a bit and truly consider it to be a Taco Bell taste alike. Check it out:

^^^ Note that Taco Bell doesn’t use sour cream on their gorditas. I love it though and the Daisy sour cream squeeze bottle is perfect for tacos!

Although I miss TBell something fierce, I do find comfort in the fact that some of their products are available in grocery stores like the taco seasoning and Baja sauce. It takes the edge off, but only slightly lol. I have already been using both of these when making my gordita crunches and the real game changer happened when I discovered Old El Paso made nacho cheese shells. My mind was blown during my last curbside order and so was Johnny’s! The nacho cheese cheesy gordita crunch is his go to order at Taco Bell. 🙂

When I made this dish last week, it was definitely the best ever. I love to cook, but I have never made anything that I considered to be even remotely close to a restaurant or fast food chain before. What made it even better was how simple it was to make. This dinner took under a half hour to prepare with minimal work involved. All I did was make the taco meat for Johnny, heat up vegetarian refried beans for me, and melt cheese lol. This is a meal that I am so fine cooking regardless of how busy my day is and the leftovers turn into more easy peasy dinners throughout the week. You can’t beat that!

With some upgraded ingredients, I was able to invoke the taste of Taco Bell from the comfort of my own kitchen. Even if the prices of TBell went down, I will absolutely still be making my taste alike cheesy gordita crunches at home! 😀

Do you have any restaurant or fast food taste alike recipes? What is your favorite dinner to cook? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May15

Happy Dance Look Alive Face Moisturizer + CBD Review

Posted on May 15, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Happy Dance Look Alive Face Moisturizer + CBD Review

Hello! During my last shopping trip to TJMaxx, I was in desperate need of a restock to my beauty care hoard and returned with a huge haul. I got several products from new to me brands, one of which being a moisturizer with 150 MG CBD by Happy Dance. I have been using it for the past three weeks or so morning and night and I am obsessed with it!! It is, hands down, one of the best moisturizers that I have used in a long time and I am keeping my fingers crossed to find it again at TJs. Let’s discuss further:

Although I have always been interested in CBD infused products, I have shied away from them because a CBD serum that I tried didn’t react well with my skin. That was a few years ago, though, and I figured that it wouldn’t hurt to try a moisturizer out, instead. TJMaxx rarely carries CBD beauty products so I had to take advantage of the opportunity at hand. It was also very hard to say no to the adorable brand name Happy Dance and the bright, poppy yellow and purple packaging!

I was eager to try this moisturizer out right away and I did because I was completely out of the Bellyssima one I was using. My first experience with the Happy Dance moisturizer was at night and it was a unique one. This moisturizer has little to no scent and an interesting texture. It’s balmy to the point of being waxy, which is way different than anything I have ever used before. I was concerned that it wouldn’t apply or absorb well, but that was far from the case! When I began rubbing it in, it felt so rich and creamy – not what I was expecting at all.

As soon as the moisturizer was applied and began sinking in, I felt so soothed and calm. It is often hard for me to turn my brain off come bedtime and as soon as this product began working its magic, I was ready to fall asleep right away! It was awesome and just what I needed to relax more fully before drifting off. When I woke up the next morning, my skin felt incredibly soft and nourished. However, I was a bit worried that the moisturizer would just make me tired during my morning skin care routine. Happily, that was far from the case too!

While this moisturizer helped me doze at night, it was so invigorating in the morning. It was like using an entirely different product. I am in a constant state of tired when I am completing my morning routine and the Happy Dance moisturizer definitely perked me up. I wouldn’t say it had the effects of drinking a cup of coffee, it was more like being in a decent mood and feeling ready to take on the day. Hey, I’ll take it. 😀

The Look Alive moisturizer doesn’t just soothe and awaken, but it really works wonders as a moisturizer itself. I love the way my skin looks and feels with each use. My skin feels so unbelievably hydrated, looks way more supple, and I really like the matte finish it leaves. A little of this product also goes a very long way to cover your entire face and neck. At ten dollars for the jar, I thought I was splurging on this moisturizer. Now, I feel like I got it for a steal. Yeah, it’s that good!

I cannot recommend the Happy Dance Look Alive Moisturizer + CBD enough. It is a great product to start with if you would like to begin using CBD infused skin care. Just make sure you get a jar for yours truly too! 🙂

Have you used CBD infused skin care before? What are your thoughts on it? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May14

Happy Mother’s Day!!!!

Posted on May 14, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone and Happy Mother’s Day!!!! Today, we celebrate all of the amazing moms around the world and I like to think of this as my first Mother’s Day now that I have Melvin and Penelope lol. Hey, they are the closest thing Johnny and I will ever get to having kids! Of course, the real star of the day is my wonderful, beautiful, fantastic, strong, hilarious, and every good adjective that I can think of mom. ❤

My mom is my ride or die, A1 bestie. I am literally obsessed with her and we are typically in constant contact throughout the day because she shares the same sentiments about yours truly. We end up missing each other as soon as I leave the room or hang up the phone! My mom is a true class act and handles every difficulty life hands her with the utmost strength, grace, and resilience. She is a fighter, warrior, and the best mom; being her daughter is an absolute gift and I feel proud of that every single minute of every day. I love her so much I can hardly stand it! ❤

I would not be the person, friend, wife, and business owner that you all know and love without my mom guiding, supporting, and cheering me on every step of the way. We are each other’s own personal cheerleaders and I always know who to go to when I have exciting news, need a kind word, or just want to chat about nothing. The bond I share with my mom is something that I am eternally grateful for and I wish I could shrink her cute little self and carry her around in my pocket all day. Lol, is that weird? 😀

My mom deserves to be celebrated every day and I cannot wait to create more memories with my partner in crime by my side. Happy Mother’s Day to all of you and I love you, mom, more than words can say!

What is something special about your mom? What is your favorite memory with your mom? MOMS!! I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May13

Simple Dinner: Homemade French Bread Pizza

Posted on May 13, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Simple Dinner: Homemade French Bread Pizza

Hello! My life is pretty crazy at the moment and it can be hard to find the time and energy to do much of anything once I return home for the day. One thing that always makes me feel good no matter how tired I am, though, is cooking dinner when I can. Earlier in the week, Johnny and I put in a curbside shopping order filled with all of our essentials and ingredients for me to make meals with. As soon as all of our groceries were put away, I got to work making homemade French bread pizzas as I wanted to use the loaf of bread we got at its freshest. They turned out SO good!

The cheese doesn’t look as melted as it actually was in these pictures and I will definitely keep them in the oven longer the next time around. I just didn’t want the pizzas to burn because I accidentally broiled them a bit too long in the first step. That was my bad because I actually should have baked it instead of broiled lol WHOOPS! Check it out:

Ingredients:

1 loaf of French bread

Pizza sauce

Shredded mozzarella cheese

Butter

Garlic powder

Toppings

Step One: When I made jalapeno popper bread, I learned from the recipe to bake the bread with a melted butter and garlic powder spread to keep it from getting too hard. This was very effective and it kept the inside of the French bread soft and the outside nice and crisp. And, I repeat, BAKE not broil lol smh.

Step Two: Once the bread was taken out of the oven, I added pizza sauce, pepperoni for Johnny, and cheese, then put it back in the oven again to bake. Because of the broil catastrophe, I was monitoring my creation pretty closely and made the executive decision to take them out early. The cheese could have melted more, but it was an overall great first try!

Step Three: Enjoy!

This was such an easy and yummy dinner to make and was a fun twist on regular old pizza night. I really enjoyed my cheese French bread pizza and I know that Johnny loved his pepperoni ones because he asked me to make it again as soon as he was done eating. This is the best stamp of approval of all because my sweet husband is a fairly picky eater! I kept things simple in terms of toppings, but next time French bread pizza is on the menu, I will add some green pepper and red onion to mine; My favorite!

What is your favorite pizza topping? What is your go to simple dinner to make? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May12

Tips & Tricks To Make The Most Of A Small Home

Posted on May 12, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Tips & Tricks To Make The Most Of A Small Home

Are you ready to embrace the cozy and charming lifestyle of small space living? Downsizing to a smaller home can be a liberating experience, allowing you to simplify your life and focus on what truly matters. However, moving to a smaller home can also be overwhelming, especially if you’re used to a larger living space. That’s why we’re here to share some creative tips and tricks for making the most of your new home:

Get Rid Of Clutter:

Decluttering is an art form when it comes to small space living. The key to success is to get rid of anything that you don’t absolutely need – this includes clothes, books, furniture, and knick knacks. So what should you do with all of these things? You can either donate them to the less fortunate, plan a garage sale, or hire Junk removal to take them away for you.

Invest In Unique Storage Solutions:

Living in a smaller home requires thinking outside of the box when it comes to storage. One idea is to buy a bookshelf that also serves as a room divider or use floating shelves to free up floor space. Another option is to use an ottoman or bench that provides seating and storage space.

Maximize Wall Space:

Take advantage of vertical space! There is no need for a blank white wall. Hang artwork, use peg boards for kitchen utensils or tools, and even turn your spare wall space into a mini library. Storage options can truly start from the ground up.

Utilize Multi-Functional Furniture:

Multi-functional furniture is like having a mini-transformer in your home. It can turn into something entirely different with just the flick of a switch. This type of furniture is great for small spaces because it gives you more bang for your buck and helps save space. Examples of multi-functional furniture include a foldaway bed or a Murphy’s desk.

Play With Natural Light:

The sun is your best friend when it comes to making small spaces look bigger. Let as much natural light in as possible by taking advantage of large windows and skylights, and opt for lighter colors on your walls.

Don’t Forget The Outdoor Space:

No matter how small of a space you have, make sure to take advantage of the great outdoors. You can use your patio or balcony for extra seating and storage or to grow a small potted garden with herbs and vegetables.

With these tips and tricks, you will find yourself falling in love with your cozy new home. All it takes is a bit of creativity!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

May12

New Watermelon Nails

Posted on May 12, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! This past Wednesday, I was lucky enough to get an appointment first thing in the morning at Elysian Nails for a fill. It was a bit of a time crunch appointment because I needed to be at work very shortly after, but my amazing tech, Mary, made it work! While I always prefer an afternoon time slot to get the full relaxation effect of being at the salon, this speedy session was just what I needed to put some pep back in my step. My nails were looking SO jank and they are now absolutely perfect! Check it out:

^^^ Lol, precious Archie decided he wanted to show off his “talons” too! Cutest thing ever!

With the weather finally heating up in Akron, sweet summertime has been weighing heavily on my mind. So, I chose a color palette in honor of my favorite summer treat: watermelon! There is nothing better on a hot day and just thinking about it makes my mouth water! At the nail polish wall, I selected a pretty glittery pink and a bright and poppy kiwi green. I couldn’t find a glitter shade of green that spoke to me, but I did find a white and green glitter top coat and it worked out even better than I imagined. This is one of my favorite color combos yet!

Once my polish was selected, I let Mary know that I had to leave by eleven and she freaking DELIVERED. Mary has done my nails several times in the past and she has become my new go to girl since my old go to girl got a new job. She blew me away during this fill and, despite her speed, the quality of work was not sacrificed in the slightest. My nails are sturdy, sharp, and shaped to complete perfection. We were also chatting away the entire time which makes this session even more impressive to me. She is the best and I cannot wait for my appointment with her the day after my birthday in June. 😀

My high speed fill at Elysian Nails got me back to feeling myself as I have been feeling so blah as of late. I can’t help but smile every time I look at my watermelon claws and am looking forward to a more leisurely birthday fill soon!

What color of nail polish are you rocking? What is your favorite summertime treat? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May11

Summer Elder Emo OOTD Bloopers

Posted on May 11, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone and welcome to the blooper reel from my Summer Elder Emo OOTD! I don’t know about all of you, but I am SO ready for summer! What is it about this time of year that just makes you want to quit your job and lounge by the pool for three months straight? Lol, the weather for the past month in Ohio has been absolute crap and it has finally warmed up this week, making me so ready for some fun in the sun. And fun from OOTD bloopers, of course! Let’s check them out:

Something STANK!

Wait, you’re taking my picture?? 😮

That face you make when your bracelet gets caught on your top

The end result of a pretty epic hair flip

Wait, you’re taking my picture AGAIN?! 😮

My I’m not mad, just disappointed face

LOL wtf is this!

Lil Red, coming to an apartment complex balcony near you!

For our post blooper commentary, let’s chat a bit about comfort shows. We all have those few series that we know by heart, but they still hit just as hard every time you put it on! Mine and Johnny’s are Seinfeld, The Office, Parks & Rec, and Superstore. However, our lineup has changed up because we have become die hard fans of The Kroll Show. We started watching this three season series in mid April and are already on our third viewing of it. Every time the show ends, we simply start it over again!

With everything going on in Lil Red’s world, I need a laugh as often as I can and The Kroll Show delivers every time. It is a sketch show created by Nick Kroll and features all of his pals including John Mulaney, Jenny Slate, Jon Daly, and Andy Milonakis just to name a few. Every character in the sketches are absolutely ridiculous, the music is hilarious, and we can’t stop watching it to save our own lives. Johnny and I are obsessed with Dr. Armond, Pawnslyvania, and you can’t forget Publizity. In barely a month, it has become our most quoted show and whenever we come home, we tell each other which earworm was stuck in our heads for the day. In my case, it is almost always the love song Dr Armond’s wife made for him. Total bop. 😀

Laughter can truly be the best medicine of all, which is why the blooper reels have become a staple here on lifewithlilred. It also might be why we have watched the exact same show three times in a row too! Johnny and I have fallen away from our normal horror and true crime amidst our current hardship and our comfort shows have taken over. If you are having a bad day, put on your go to show and enjoy – it will do you a world of good!

What is your favorite comfort show? What is your favorite Kroll Show sketch? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

PS: For John Mulaney fans, his new stand up show on Netflix, Baby J, was a HOOT!

May10

How To Take Better Care Of Your Hair

Posted on May 10, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Taking care of your hair is crucial if you want it to look good and feel healthy. However, it might surprise you to learn just what really goes into looking after your hair, and it might be a little more work than you think. Once you start a new routine and get into the habit of taking better care of your hair, it won’t seem so hard. Read on to find out what you should be doing to take care of your hair in the best way:

Wash Your Hair:

It might seem obvious, but the first thing you need to know about when it comes to taking care of your hair is that you need to wash it. You don’t need to wash it quite as often as you might think, and too much washing is just as bad as not enough. When you wash your hair more than you need to, you’ll strip away all of the natural oils that protect it, leaving it dry and brittle. If you don’t wash your hair enough, you’ll have a build-up of these oils, which makes it greasy. Because all hair types are different, you’ll need to experiment to determine how long your hair can go between washes, but once you know, you’ll be able to keep it a lot healthier.

Condition Your Hair:

Do you always condition your hair? Although shampoo and conditioner go hand in hand, not everyone uses both for every wash. If you want to keep your hair soft, shiny, and manageable, conditioner is going to be one of the best products you can use on a regular basis. Make sure you choose a conditioner that works for your hair type for the best results, and never condition your roots, as these are already the oiliest part of your hair. Instead, use the conditioner part way down the hair and down to the tip.

Brush Your Hair:

It’s likely that you brush your hair every day, perhaps multiple times a day. That’s a good thing, as it will keep it looking nice and shiny and remove any tangles, ensuring it has a sleek look. Make sure you choose the right brush to make your hair look great. For example, if you need a luxury brush for waves, that’s exactly what you should be using – compromising in any way will ruin your look and could cause damage to your hair. You should also be careful not to brush your hair when it’s wet because this is when it’s at its most fragile, and brushing could damage it and cause it to fall out.

Protect Your Hair From Heat:

Many of the tools we use on our hair use heat to give you the style or result you want. Of course, heat is highly damaging to hair, so these tools should only be used when absolutely necessary. If you have to use heat tools like straighteners or a hairdryer more often, and especially if you use them every day, you’ll need to add serum or a heat protection spray to your hair first. Although it’s still better to let your hair dry and style naturally, these products will be helpful and are certainly better than not using any product at all.

Keep your locks looking luscious with the tips above!!

Featured Image By: Andrea Piacquadio

May10

Summer Elder Emo OOTD

Posted on May 10, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! Although Johnny and I have countless clothes between the two of us in a rainbow of colors, we both definitely feel at our most comfortable in all black everything. My husband and I are what the kids would call “elder emos” and, honestly, that sounds about right considering that at almost 29 and 34 we haven’t outgrown it yet. Told you it wasn’t just a phase, mom and dad! 😀 While black might not be the coolest color to wear during warm spring days and summer, I still felt cool AF in this OOTD:

Who? What? Wear?

I am actually not sure what to call the top I have on lol, but it is from Forever 21!

Shorts: American Eagle Outfitters

Snakeskin Heeled Mules: Dolce Vita, TJMaxx

Cross Earrings: Target

Necklace: I bought this from a craft fair in Atlanta and it was made by John Deveer

All of the bracelets are from American Eagle Outfitters except for the turquoise one, which is from New Mexico

For the past week and change, it has been rainy and cold in Akron and I was SO over it. I felt like I was asleep all week with the constantly grey skies! There were a few days when the nonstop rain halted for a bit with moderate temps and seeing that sliver of sun felt like a heat wave. Is 28 too young to be having hot flashes? Haha, with a break in the BS weather, I wanted to feel like summer so I put together a look that I like to break out when it heats up. I’m surprised I haven’t shot this OOTD before but, hey, better late than never!

To begin my Summer Elder Emo OOTD, I went with my black top/dress thing from Forever 21. This top is almost eight years old and it remains one of my favorites to this day. I have never seen a top even remotely similar to this in close to a decade of being a shopaholic. It is so unique and a great top for summer because of how light and breezy it is. I love the solid crop top that begins going gauzy at just the right spot. When I bought this top, I wrote that I felt like a supermodel in it and I felt that way when I was taking pictures. This is why I try to take really good care of my clothes because I want to hold onto that runway ready feel for forever!

While this top is very cute with skinny jeans, I think it shines the most when paired with shorts. I chose my pair from American Eagle Outfitters and, as always, shout out to them for having the absolute BEST shorts and jeans selection. I am very partial to a midrise short and those are so hard to find in this day and age so it pleases me greatly that AEO still offers this option. Does anyone remember that award show when Angelina Jolie had that really high slit in her dress and she kept popping her leg out? Lol, that’s how I felt in this top and shorts combo and it was awesome! It was also a bonus to see a majority of my tattoos and letting all of the colors pop against the neutral palette.

When I think of an all black everything look, the first words that come to mind are sleek and sexy. Coincidentally, those words also come to mind when I think of snakeskin patterns so my Dolce Vita heeled mules were the obvious choice for shoes. I have a lot of snakeskin patterned shoes in a variety of palettes, but these will always be my A1s. I love the pointed toe, the heel length is just right, and grey snakeskin is my favorite. These heels created gorgeous length and I felt it from the top of my head to the tip of my pointed toes. 😀

With the base of the outfit settled, all that was left to do was accessorize. I didn’t want to go overboard with jewelry even though I could have with the palette that I had created. I wanted sleek and a hodgepodge of accessories would overcrowd the vibe I was going for. I added a pair of dangly gold cross earrings from Target for some movement and went very simple with the necklace. I adore the hand carved necklace I got at a craft fair and it enhanced the outfit without taking away from it. To wrap things up, I put on a few statement bracelets, including a beautiful turquoise one for a color pop and my OOTD was ready to go!

My Summer Elder Emo OOTD is a staple in my warm weather look book and I felt amazing in it. This is angsty girl summer to the T and I am so there for it!

Who is your favorite emo band? What is your go to summer color? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May9

Content Creating 101

Posted on May 9, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! This past week, I shared my pro tips for working from home and self employment that were very well received. So, I decided to do one more 101 post with a focus on content creating. For almost four years, I have been creating daily content for lifewithlilred and I am very determined to continue this streak for as long as humanly possible! These are some of the tips that help me stay motivated and creative and maybe they’ll be helpful for you too:

Patience is a virtue:

Over the past several years, influencers and content creators have made a big splash online and I’m sure we all have a favorite personality with millions of viewers. It might be easy to think that you can immediately start publishing content and hit it big but that is far from the case more often than not. Every popular influencer started off with minimal views and they worked hard to increase them. As a content creator, it is important to be patient and continue posting even if you think no one is seeing it. At the end of the day, this is what you have to do to boost your visibility so stick with it and don’t compare yourselves to other people – nothing good ever comes out of that!

Content is everywhere:

Chances are, you are not going to stumble upon instantly viral content and if you have, then you are SO lucky! Although you might not come across million view worthy things when you are out and about, there is still content everywhere. Sometimes, it helps to think small instead of big in terms of content, especially when you are feeling uninspired. Then, you can appreciate all of the little things that are just as post worthy too. This always helps me! Take a walk and post about how you felt in nature, write about your favorite knick knack at home; if you think that it is worth writing about, then it is. Simple as that. 🙂

Never stop learning:

There is, truly, a lot more to content creating than meets the eye and the online world is changing constantly. There are always going to be new social media platforms, trends, and techniques to learn and it’s important to stay up to date with them. Myself, for example, didn’t get an Instagram until the end of 2021 and I regret that because it’s literally the easiest platform ever and I just said “hard no” lol. Educate yourself by learning about SEO, analytics, trending topics, and ways to increase your visibility and incorporate it into your content. There are so many tools out there to help you, but they’re only going to help if you familiarize yourself with it first.

Have fun:

At the end of the day, I genuinely think that content creating is fun. I love to write, take pictures, explore, and I enjoy being on social media. If you are not feeling the joy of creating something, then it might be a good time to reevaluate what you are currently doing and see where you can improve. It’s okay to take breaks and give your mind a chance to refresh so you can get back to creating and having a blast while doing so.

Stay organized:

I cannot recommend a publishing schedule enough, especially when you are first starting out. This helps your viewers know when to expect your posts, look forward to them, and keep checking in. When I first began lifewithlilred, I was posting willy nilly with no set schedule and I quickly learned the benefits of establishing one. I went from twice a week content to every other day to every day in the near decade of my page’s existence. Having this set in stone schedule definitely assisted my page’s visibility. Create a schedule that works well for you and commit to it. Content is being created every second of every day all over the world. Random postings are very easy to get lost among the crowd!

When it comes to content creating, be patient with the process of it, stay motivated, and have fun. Whether you are getting one view or a million, you created something you were proud of and that’s the best thing of all!

What is your favorite social media platform? What are some of your content creating pro tips? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May8

Ways To Help Someone During A Tough Time

Posted on May 8, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Ways To Help Someone During A Tough Time

Hello!! As you know, it has not been sunshine and rainbows in Lil Red’s world as of late. I have basically been a dual citizen between Akron and Cleveland while a loved one is a long term patient at the Cleveland Clinic. During this difficult time, I have been so thankful to everyone who has reached out to me in case I need anything. In this post, I thought I’d put together a few helpful and not so helpful things that you can do if you would like to offer assistance to someone you know who is going through a hardship too. I know firsthand the merits and annoyances of a few of the following so let’s discuss:

DO – Let the person know you are here:

Sometimes, the most comforting thing that you can do is to just let someone know you are here. You are available to chat on the phone. You can be there in a flash if needed. Help is available if you ask. This puts the ball into the recipients court and gives them the opportunity to take you up on your offer if they choose. Which leads me to my next point:

DON’T – Bombard the person:

One of the absolute best things that you can do is to not bombard your loved one during the hardship they are experiencing. Constantly asking for updates, if they need help, and checking in is coming from a good place, of course, but it can also be a lot. I would highly recommend keeping check ins to a minimum unless asked for it because lots of calls and messages can be extremely overwhelming.

DO – Be empowering:

As much as it is appreciated to receive offers of assistance, there are some approaches that work better than others. I, personally, don’t like when it is implied that I can’t do things like maintain my household, grocery shop, or cook. Be mindful of your phrasing and try to empower the person instead. Something like “you have been doing so much, would it be helpful if I did XYZ?” goes a much longer way than “have you even been able to do XYZ?”.

DON’T – Pressure the person:

I have talked with SO many people during my “residency” at the Cleveland Clinic and one thing that we have all agreed on is how sick we are of hearing “take time for you”. The running joke is that we all reply with “how?” lol. It almost just feels like one more thing that we have to do on top of everything else. It sounds weird, but it is somewhat pressuring when you are hearing it from everyone and their brother! Once again, phrasing is important. “Can I do XYZ for you so you can take a break?” gives you the chance to say yes or no instead of a question mark.

DO – Be understanding:

I have become the queen of sending texts a week after receiving one, ignoring phone calls, and simply not replying back period. This is not coming from a place of being mean – just tired! Of course, I don’t love doing this but what was helpful for me was letting people know that if anything important was happening, they would know too. Your texts and calls might go unanswered and that’s okay! Be understanding of it and try your best to not blow up anyone’s phone in the process. ❤

At the end of July, it will be a year since my hardships began and these are all just things I noticed for myself personally. What is in this post might not be the case for you, but I thought I would pass it along anyway in case anything is remotely helpful!

Are you good or bad at accepting help? What was something that was beneficial or annoying during a difficult time? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May7

Affordable Upgrades To Create A Relaxing Home Environment

Posted on May 7, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Affordable Upgrades To Create A Relaxing Home Environment

With the fast-paced nature of our world today, creating a calm and relaxing home environment is more critical than ever. Your living space should be a sanctuary where you can unwind, recharge, and be at peace. Let’s explore some affordable upgrades that can help you transform your home into a calming oasis:

Lighting:

The right lighting can have a significant impact on your mood and create a calming atmosphere in your home. Try swapping out harsh, fluorescent bulbs for soft, warm-toned ones, like yellow or orange. You can also incorporate string lights or candles to enhance the ambiance and provide a warm, cozy feel. Lighting dimmers are also an affordable and easy upgrade that can help set the mood. Simply adjust the light to your desired level for a gentle, inviting atmosphere.

Declutter:

Clutter can cause stress and anxiety, so take a few moments to declutter your home. Donate or sell things you no longer need and create storage systems to organize what’s left. Tidying up can help promote a sense of calm as you remove excess items and create an organized, relaxing space. You can also use baskets or decorative boxes to store things away without sacrificing your home’s aesthetic.

Color:

Color can have a significant impact on your mood, so think about which hues create the most calming environment for you. Light blues and greens can be soothing, while oranges and yellows evoke feelings of warmth and happiness. Choose colors that make you feel relaxed and at peace, then incorporate them into your living space. This can be as simple as adding a few colorful pillows or painting an accent wall for an easy refresh.

Aromatherapy:

Scents like lavender, vanilla, and eucalyptus have soothing properties that can help you relax and reduce stress. Consider incorporating aromatherapy into your home by using essential oils, candles, or diffusers. You’ll be amazed at how much a simple scent can transform your living space! You can also combine aromatherapy with soft lighting to create an even more calming effect.

Art:

Art can have a significant impact on the atmosphere in your home, whether it’s a painting, photograph, or sculpture. Choose pieces that bring you joy or have a calming energy to them. You can also add texture to your walls with tapestries or decorative fabrics – the possibilities are endless!

Biophilic Design Elements:

Biophilic design is an interior design concept that emphasizes the connection between humans and nature. This will help to create a calming atmosphere by bringing the outdoors inside. You can create a biophilic home by following these tips:

Invest in a living wall:

A living wall is an easy and affordable way to bring nature indoors. It can be as simple or complex as you want, with a variety of plants that suit your needs. You can also opt for moss walls that are easy to maintain and look beautiful.

Add natural materials:

Natural materials like wood, stone, and clay can provide a tactile element to your home and enhance its calming aesthetic. Try adding baskets woven from seagrass or wooden furniture for a rustic feel.

Bring in natural light:

Nothing says relaxation like natural sunlight pouring into your home! Open up curtains and blinds to let the sun shine through and create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere.

Add water elements:

Adding a water feature like a fountain or waterfall can help create a sense of tranquility and relaxation. The sound of running water will lull you into a calm state, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Creating a calm and relaxing home environment doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Take the time to invest in yourself by creating a sanctuary that is uniquely yours – one where you can relax and recharge!

May7

Amazing Hacks For A More Convenient Home

Posted on May 7, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Amazing Hacks For A More Convenient Home

Home life can be chaotic and expensive. It seems like every season brings with it a new set of challenges, tools, and products. If you want to cut down on your expenses and make home life simpler, try some of these amazing hacks. Who knew something like PVC pipes could do all of this:

Curling Iron Holsters:

A curling iron or styling wand is what you need to make the bouncy curls and stylish waves that sets you apart from the crowd. Curling irons and styling wands come in different shapes and sizes, but they have some things in common; they all become hot and need to be stored safely. When you are using your curling iron in the bathroom, it can be inconvenient and dangerous to leave it sitting on the porcelain counter; it’s better if you can store it in a handy PVC holster. These are simple to make, just cut lengths of PVC pipe and attach them to the inside of the door!

Trendy Overhead Storage:

PVC piping might be expressly designed for plumbing and drainage, but it can be repurposed to make your home life more convenient. If you have a basement, garage, or attachment, you probably have some extra space overhead, so why not make it work for you with PVC storage? Source some PVC piping from your local hardware store and attach it to the wooden beams overhead. Create U-shaped sections to place copper piping on for cross beams. Once the copper beams are in place, you can use the space above for storing lightweight garden tools.

Gutter Cleaning Hack:

Home gutters need to be cleaned regularly, especially in the fall when leaves gather as it increases the risks of flooding and water damage. Water damage in the home is not only difficult to repair, but it is also a health risk for a family due to mold growth. Here is an easy gutter-cleaning hack. Again, PVC piping is your friend, so make sure you buy plenty of it at the hardware store. PVC piping is durable and hollow; it is also versatile, with plenty of attachments. Place an elbow joint on one end with a rinsing cap and attach a hose to the other end to clean gutters with ease.

Bike Storage:

Do you walk into your garage and bemoan the sight of the family bikes stacked precariously in the corner? What you need is a bike rack, but they can be expensive to buy and install. If you have some DIY skills, you can use this PVC piping hack to create your own at a far lower cost. PVC piping is an easy material to work with; you can put it together like Lego, so even low-skilled DIYers can create helpful home hacks with ease. What you need is a row of rectangles with gaps at either end and a stand at the back as per these helpful instructions.

Carpet Cleaning:

In recent years there has been a trend towards wooden floors in the home, but many homes still choose carpet and for good reasons. In colder climates, carpets retain more heat and create a warmer atmosphere in the room. But they need to be cleaned regularly to protect family health. Dust mites, allergens, and bacteria build up in the carpet and can cause health conditions like asthma for family members. There are a ton of carpet cleaning hacks that you can use, such as lint rollers, squeegees for pet hair, and stain removal using an iron or a professional service.

Lighted Screwdriver:

Whether you are working in the garage, the basement, or the attic, you could benefit from a lighted screwdriver. A lighted screwdriver is a conventional screwdriver with an LED light on the end that illuminates the space you are working on. Lighted screwdrivers can also be created. Buying one of these devices in the store or online is likely to cost significantly more than one might expect, especially if it’s a brand-name device. A better option is to go to the counter and pick up a small LED keychain for a fraction of the price, then simply tape it onto your screwdriver end.

Draft Excluders:

Draft excluders come in different varieties and depend on the type of gaps you have in your home. Some homes have ceiling registers that can be fixed with a plant pot base glued over the gap in winter. Gaps in the bottom of the door can be sealed with a strip of materials or a soft toy.

Screen Cleaning:

Computer, laptop, smartphone, and TV screens all collect dust and need to be cleaned regularly. If you don’t have any screen cleaning products around, you can use household items like window cleaner, kitchen cleaner, rubbing alcohol, or wipe with vinegar for a sparkling surface.

All of these hacks are easy to complete and will make your life easier too! Happy DIYing!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

May7

Cleveland (Clinic) Rocks!

Posted on May 7, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! In the greater Akron area, there is honestly not too much to do lol. For the people who think Ohio is basically just corn; you’re spot on! In fact, the most exciting thing that has happened was a literal dumpster fire outside of my apartment this past winter SMH. Having said that, there are tons of perks to living in my neck of the woods and that includes being about forty-five minutes away from Cleveland. Of course, I love my outings at Playhouse Square, but the most important thing is being close to some of the best medical care on planet Earth: the Cleveland Clinic.

For the past two months and change, I have essentially been living at the Cleveland Clinic as a loved one has been a long term patient. I now consider my family to be a CC staple and jokingly call ourselves the mayors of the Clinic every day. It never gets old! Although this current situation in my life isn’t great, we take immense comfort in knowing our loved one has access to treatment from the absolute best doctors, nurses, and staff.

99.99% of the people we have interacted with that are employed by the Clinic have been nothing short of amazing. This doesn’t just go for the doctors and nurses, but everyone from maintenance to housekeeping, the art and music therapists and anyone in between. My family is always greeted with smiles, chit chat, and the pleasantries that make us feel a bit more at ease in a difficult time. One of the things that I adored was this sweet surprise in my loved one’s room compliments of the housekeeping staff and I got to take it home in honor of Mel and Pen:

^^^ Seriously, how cute is that?!

Saying that we are eternally grateful to the Cleveland Clinic is the most severe understatement of the century. They have done more for my family than words can say and have been with us through each hardship as if they were our family too. My life has been turned upside down and on its head this past year, but being around the CC staff who I now interact with as old friends makes things a little easier. We are in awe of everyone’s expertise and will never forget everything that they have done around the clock to help our loved one. They are all angels on Earth and as much as I enjoy their company, I’ll be happy when I never have to see them again lol. 🙂

Life has been rough for Lil Red for a while now, but I can’t think of a better place for my loved one to be than the Cleveland Clinic. Like the Olive Garden, when you’re at the CC, you’re family too!

What is a great thing about where you live? What is something that you can only find in your neck of the woods? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May6

Self Employment 101

Posted on May 6, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! In a recent post, I shared my pro tips for Working From Home 101 and I thought I would share my thoughts on self employment as well. For close to a decade, I have been working under the best boss in the world – myself! At times, it is stressful and difficult, but it is also so rewarding and I truly couldn’t imagine working under someone else ever again. I love what I do as an Independent Provider for people with special needs and as a Content Creator and I have had years to perfect my method. All of the following works for me and maybe it will be helpful for you too:

Organization is ESSENTIAL:

When you are self employed, it is up to you to handle everything and if you struggle with organization, it can be a struggle. Thankfully, I live to organize and thrive with a fairly strict schedule, making this aspect of self employment one of my favorite things. Sticking to a schedule and staying on top of things eliminates any surprises from interfering with your work flow. To keep myself in check, I follow these steps:

Paperwork: Getting behind on your paperwork is one of the absolute worst things that you can do. This is why I refuse to end a day without completing all of my forms both tangible and online. I also set aside time at the end of every month to complete my mileage log for my taxes. I am very meticulous about my paperwork and keep everything organized in a filing cabinet in my office. It just makes things easier to have everything I might ever need at the ready and even if it is annoying sometimes, my businesses wouldn’t thrive otherwise.

Scheduling: One of the benefits of self employment is making your own schedule. This freedom can be utterly intoxicating if you are used to waiting around for a schedule from a previous job. However, don’t enjoy it too much! Falling into the trap of “I’ll do it tomorrow” or “I have plenty of time to get it done” sets you up for failure. Creating a schedule that works for you and that you know you can commit to is only going to help you!

Taxes: Filing your taxes is going to be different than usual when you’re self employed and I cannot recommend getting familiar with this process enough. All year, my “tax” file in my cabinet gets a lot of use and by the time tax season rolls around, I have nothing left to do but schedule an appointment. When you learn what things can be “written off”, you can not only save money but step up your record keeping game. It’s a win/win and, of course, if you have any questions along the way, call the person who does your taxes!

Stay Cool:

When you are self employed, you are making the plunge from “employee” to “business owner”. It is very easy to get overwhelmed by this and the best thing that you can do is to keep a level head. Staying cool, calm, and collected allows you to make rational decisions for your business and it’s never good to make these calls when you’re stressed. As the owner of two businesses, I know firsthand that juggling so many different things can be intense. Whenever I notice that I’m feeling the pressure of this, I allow myself to take a break, clear my head, and start fresh.

Keep Learning:

Even if you are your own boss, you should never stop trying to learn new things to improve your business. Find a mentor, take classes, do your own research, and ask questions. You don’t want your business to plateau, but grow! My mentor has helped me SO much in skill development, educating myself, and mastering new things. Finding someone to take you under their wing or at least brainstorm with can boost your business in ways that you might not have even considered. Be curious, ambitious, and willing to learn – it will take you far!

Enjoy Yourself:

Being self employed is something that not everyone has the luxury of doing and it’s something that I feel very lucky for. I remember this often and even on crazy busy days, I am still happy that I am doing it all by myself. Shifting your mindset from “this is too much” to “this is pretty awesome” will make your days so much more enjoyable, even under stress. On rollercoaster days, just put your hands up and enjoy the ride because you never know where your business will take you!

My businesses have thrived from being highly organized and highly motivated and I feel so proud of that. These tips help me out every day and gives me the drive to keep going forward in my own self employment!

What are some of your self employment pro tips? What is your dream job? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May5

Simply Sassy OOTD Bloopers

Posted on May 5, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone and welcome to the blooper reel from my Simply Sassy OOTD! This week has brought us double the outfits and double the laughs and I had such a great time shooting both of these looks. No matter how sad, exhausted, or burnt out I am feeling, nothing puts a pep back in my step quite like getting the creative juices flowing by styling an OOTD and taking pics. It is my instant dose of confidence to do something that I think I’m good at and feeling good while doing so. I am so glad that I have been holding true as best as I can to my 2023 blogging goal of more outfit posts and can’t wait to see what I come up with next! Now, let’s take a peek at these bloopers:

Lol, I have NO idea what this stank face was directed towards, but yikes!

Just out here working what my mama gave me

Giving my best “hey, neighbor” featuring a blank stare and nonchalant wave

Serving lead singer of a hair metal band

Struggled severely with balancing on one foot, if you haven’t already guessed, I was definitely thinking “oh shit” in this moment!

I LOOK GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A still from the imaginary horror film: Timber Top Terror

Look out, cause Lil Red is coming in hot!

Every morning when I work from home, I open the floor to Melvin and Penelope to get their exercise. They are the most adorable, distracting creatures on planet Earth and sometimes I feel like I’m the one getting the work out instead. While they are normally pretty good about managing their mischief, some days like today, they are especially on one which turns my whole morning into blooper filled chaos. In the past half hour since I have sat down, I have gotten up SIX times to tear them away from their beloved windowsill which they love to chew on. In this process, I only tripped once which is actually not too bad for me lol SMH.

Mel and P recently got a taste of adventure when they were out with Johnny as they evaded him and ended up in a completely non bunny proofed area: The game room. They had a blast thwarting all of Johnny’s attempts to bring them back to safety and thoroughly enjoyed hiding underneath our record player. I can tell after their exploration mission that they are ready to be on the move and Johnny and I have grand plans to perfect our bunny proofing game and allow them to free roam when we aren’t home.

This process is going to be one of trial and error and I just know it is going to be bloopers aplenty in the Miller household while we figure it out. Our little gremlins are SO clever and are very good at finding new and exciting ways to escape our cardboard bunny blockers and playpen fence. Mel and P are also very fast, turning these instances into utter fiascos. I’ll never forget the time I had to mute a conference call while I tried to find Mel when he made a jailbreak! But, hey, they still manage to make fiascos adorable and Johnny and I are just as obsessed with them as the day we brought them home. ❤

Stay tuned on lifewithlilred for more as Johnny and I attempt to transform our downstairs into a safe bunny haven and lot’s more OOTDs and bloopers coming soon… Bunny bloopers included!

Do you have any pet proofing advice? What is something silly that your pet does? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May4

4 Strategies To Transform Your Body & Achieve Fitness Goals

Posted on May 4, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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4 Strategies To Transform Your Body & Achieve Fitness Goals

Are you struggling with reaching fitness goals or transforming your body for good? Don’t panic. Success with physical fitness can be achieved using effective strategies, diet, and exercise plans. This article outlines four tried-and-tested tactics which have been shown to work overtime to help achieve the body of your dreams. From building good habits to improving nutrition, these steps are sure to put you on a successful journey towards physical fitness:

Set Realistic Goals:

Setting achievable and manageable fitness goals is the first and most crucial step toward reaching them. Setting ambitious yet manageable targets can prevent disappointment and frustration from overshadowing any progress you’ve made, while unrealistic or overly ambitious ones could thwart any effort you put in. To stay motivated, set reasonable expectations; even though it might take more time than you initially anticipate, it will definitely pay off in the end!

Focus on incremental rather than radical transformations; for example, set small daily goals like eating a nutritious breakfast every morning or doing 30 minutes of exercise instead of trying to run 10 miles every day! Don’t beat yourself up when you slip up. Simply readjust and move forward with your plan, remembering that gradual change over time is the key to reaching physical fitness goals.

Discover an Exercise Program That Suits Your Needs:

Step two in your body transformation journey should be to find an exercise program that’s personalized to you. When starting out, make sure your exercise focuses on targeting all major muscle groups to provide a comprehensive workout without over training or injury risk. Also don’t be afraid to switch up your routine periodically by adding new exercises or equipment into the mix – doing this will keep things interesting while propelling you toward better results. Be consistent in your workouts, rest properly between exercise sessions, and don’t forget to have fun while working out! By making fitness an enjoyable part of life, it will become much easier to stick with it and achieve results faster.

Focus on Building Self-Confidence:

An inner sense of confidence is essential for reaching fitness goals and changing the shape of your body. One way to build self-confidence is through positive affirmations. Instead of dwelling on negative comments or thoughts, give yourself credit for all of the progress you’ve already made and remind yourself of how capable you are of succeeding. Celebrate small victories along the way – even if it means doing one extra rep or running one more mile than last time; doing so will foster long-term motivation and drive.

Consider Cosmetic Procedures:

Plastic surgery and other cosmetic procedures may provide an effective means of attaining a desired look; however, there may be risks involved and results may not always meet expectations. Before making the leap into cosmetic surgery or other similar processes, always consult a qualified physician like drvitenas.com who can explain all possible outcomes of each approach. It’s wise to think carefully about why you want a procedure; if it stems from insecurity or pressure from others it might be more beneficial to focus on increasing self-confidence instead. Remind yourself that plastic surgery isn’t a miracle cure. While it might help you reach some of your aesthetic goals, it cannot replace hard work and dedication needed for true body transformation.

By following these steps and setting realistic goals, you can make significant strides towards changing your body and realizing your fitness dreams!

Featured Image By: Pexels

May4

Simply Sassy OOTD

Posted on May 4, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone and welcome to the second look of my double OOTD week! My weekends have been less than relaxing for a while now and I knew I wouldn’t have had the time to do an OOTD shoot this past Saturday. So, I decided to change things up when I had a light workload last Thursday morning by doing my hair and makeup and taking pictures once I got home. This worked out really well for me and I am going to try to stick to that schedule to give me one less thing to worry about once the weekend rolls around.

The second outfit I shot didn’t come out as accordingly to plan as the first one did, but that’s okay because I ended up loving it! This look was put together on the fly and sometimes that’s the best way to go. Check it out:

Who? What? Wear?

Snakeskin Tie Back Top: Japna, TJMaxx

Retro Straight Leg Pants: Sincerely Jules, TJMaxx

Speech Bubble Heels: LFL, TJMaxx

Gold Hoop Earrings: Argentino Vivo, TJMaxx

Additional accessories are from Claire’s, American Eagle Outfitters, and Target

My original plan for this outfit was to style something to wear to the Cleveland botanical gardens, which I would love to go to this summer. My bestie, Cliff, let me borrow one of my favorite button down tops of his that featured jewel tone dried flowers for the pattern and I was excited to wear it. However, it just wasn’t happening once it was on. My husband is tall, but Cliff is even taller and I was swimming in his shirt no matter what I did to try and make it better. Since the look I had in mind crumbled to pieces, I ended up winging it!

I still wanted to wear my slacks by Sincerely Jules since they are brand new and began building my outfit from there. These pants are very different than anything I own and I think that’s why I like them so much, despite their simplicity. They fit perfectly and hug my body in all of the right places without being too tight. After surveying myself in the mirror with them on, I decided that they could work for a date night rather than a date day and the rest of the look came easily once I had an occasion in mind.

The Sincerely Jules pants were an ideal neutral and it gave me free reign to pair them with pretty much whatever. To invoke some date night sex appeal, I chose my snakeskin patterned tie back top by Japna. When I tried my pants on in the fitting room, I definitely pictured them more for work and daytime wear. It wasn’t until I put the top on that I realized they could be used for a night out too because I thought I looked slammin! I loved how my tattoos popped against the palette I created and the peek a boo cutouts at the waist and back added that date night flare that I was looking for.

For shoes, I chose an adorable pair of speech bubble heels by LFL for an extra dose of sass. These shoes are just pure fun and further enhanced the night on the town vibe. The pants also covered up the low-ish ankle strap on the heels to give me a seamless leg line and add some length. As much as I love these shoes, I rarely get to wear them because the ankle strap can be problematic so this was a nice bonus for me! They also introduced a new texture among the sheen of the top and cloth pants and we all know that mixing textures appropriately is a great way to make the eyes dance!

After the base of my OOTD was settled, it was time to accessorize. I didn’t want to go overboard with jewelry since a fair amount of my tattoos were visible so I kept things simple. I went with my favorite pair of Argentino Vivo hoops to add some movement as the clothing was more form fitting. Then, I put on a few statement rings and bracelets for a blingy pop without being distracting and called it a day. 😀

Although this is not what I had in mind at all for my second outfit, I am beyond happy with how my Simply Sassy OOTD turned out! I felt so good and confident in this look and I can definitely picture myself wearing it for a night out with Johnny!

Do you plan outfits or wing them? What was something that you thought would look really good and didn’t end up working? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May3

Jumpsuit Jams OOTD Bloopers

Posted on May 3, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone and welcome to the blooper reel from my Jumpsuit Jams OOTD! I fell off the horse last week and did not have the time to squeeze an OOTD shoot in so, to make up for it, I styled two brand new looks for all of you – as a treat. 🙂 Two new outfits means two new sets of bloopers and, I must say, I don’t think I have ever looked better lol! Check it out and then we’re going to have a chat on a minor thing featured in each of these pictures that can be majorly annoying. Can you guess what it is? Let’s get started:

Just gracing my neighbors with my presence as pretend mayor of Timber Top

My “aw, shucks” face

Look out! Sassy lady on the prowl!

I feel like I thought I was working it SO hard in this picture, but I just look stoned lol

Please tell me I’m not the only one who thinks of the Princess Diaries whenever your foot pops up

I LOOK GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hustling to get my phone to shoot the next look – check it out tomorrow! 😀

Did you guess what annoying thing I was talking about is? No, it wasn’t my face lol but a little something known as “axillary fat”. You know, that pouch type thing that just kind of hangs out in the armpit region? Although it is not a big deal for most people, it can be a huge issue for some and I despised these pockets when I was in the throws of an eating disorder. So much so that I simply refused to wear any type of top or dress that would make them visible. Any tank or spaghetti strap top had to be high cut in the armpit so it would cover them up and I guess I didn’t notice until this shoot that I was still dressing with that frame of mind.

I have been eating disorder free for over half a decade now and my self confidence is in a really good place. In fact, I didn’t even notice that this “boob fat” or whatever you want to call it was visible when trying my jumpsuit on at TJMaxx. It wasn’t until looking at the pictures afterwards that I saw it in almost every shot. Back in the day, I would probably have never worn this jumpsuit let alone take pictures in it! However, rather than deleting every picture from this shoot, I decided that I looked awesome anyways and that felt great!

Insecurities are annoying. They just are and they have the potential to fester into something that prevents you from doing what you want to do or wearing what you want to wear. It took a long time for me to realize that I was shopping and styling with my insecurities still in mind – I just realized it as I started writing this! But, what if we all just said “who cares” and dressed the way we wanted without nagging thoughts? Pardon my French, but my literal thought when I saw something that made me insecure on full display was “fuck it” haha. I had an eating disorder, I work out every day and my axillary fat still exists. I can’t do anything about it so… fuck it!

I know better than anyone how scary it is to face the things that make you feel bad and I feel proud that I finally felt the nonchalance that I have been trying for forever to achieve. It might seem hard and it will be hard, but sometimes the best thing to do is confront your insecurities head on. Whether it be leaving the house with a fresh face, wearing that crop top that you feel shy about, or whatever it is – I know that you can do it because I just learned how to do it too. Yes, it might take some time, but it’s always a good thing to face your fears late than never. And, I promise – you look AMAZING! ❤

What makes you feel insecure? What helped you get over those insecurities? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May2

10 Steps To More Youthful Skin

Posted on May 2, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Are you tired of feeling like your skin looks tired? Or would you like to achieve that radiant, youthful glow? Well, fear no longer as we have the perfect guide to helping you attain youthful skin! In this post we will offer ten valuable tips for taking care of your skin that will bring your best face forward:

Cleanse Your Skin Thoroughly:

Cleansing should never be taken for granted when it comes to maintaining clean and healthy skin. Proper cleansing isn’t just simply using water from a faucet; hot water could actually strip your natural oils. Also be mindful that when selecting a cleanser you should choose one that fits your skin type; for oily complexions a foaming cleanser with salicylic acid would work wonders while those with dry complexions might be better off with something cream-based.

Exfoliate Regularly:

Exfoliating is another essential step in any skincare regime, helping remove dead skin cells and unclog pores which contribute to acne or other skin issues. But be wary not to over exfoliate as this could damage your skin in the process – use gentle exfoliators once or twice a week instead of harsh scrubs that could be too abrasive.

Hydrate Your Skin from Within:

Staying well hydrated is vital for maintaining youthful-looking skin. Being dehydrated causes fine lines and wrinkles to become more apparent than they otherwise would, so make sure that at least eight glasses of water a day are consumed. However, don’t rely solely on drinking liquids; eating water-rich fruits like cucumber, watermelons, and oranges is another excellent way of providing essential hydration from within.

Slathering on Sunscreen Every Day:

Sun damage is one of the leading causes of premature aging, contributing to wrinkles, dark spots, and other telltale signs of skin aging as well as increasing your risk for skin cancer. Therefore it’s vital that every day (even on cloudy days!) at least SPF 30 sunscreen is worn – and to reapply it every two hours when spending time outside!

Moisturize Regularly:

Moisturizing regularly is crucial to maintaining healthy and supple skin. Dryness causes itchy, flaky patches as well as fine lines and wrinkles. Select an adapted moisturizer tailored for your specific skin type and use it daily, both during the daytime hours as well as overnight for extra hydration benefits.

Include Antioxidants in Your Skincare Routine:

Antioxidants are an essential element in any skincare regime, as they protect skin cells against free radical damage that causes premature aging and cell loss. Some common antioxidants include vitamin C, E, and green tea extract – you can incorporate these components either via products that contain them or through a diet rich in them.

Use Retinoids to Reduce Wrinkles and Fine Lines:

Retinoids, or vitamin A derivatives, are an excellent way to fight wrinkles by increasing collagen production and cell turnover – two processes which contribute to anti-aging efforts. While retinoids may initially cause discomfort for some users, gradually increasing your use will provide long-term success and can help alleviate signs of aging. It is wise to start slowly when first beginning use; your tolerance level may require adjustments over time.

Seek Professional Help:

If your skin still appears aged despite following an effective skincare regime, professional help might be in order. Consulting a dermatologist could identify any underlying skin conditions and recommend treatments designed to restore health and appearance to it. They might also suggest products and ingredients most suited for your skin type and concerns.

Consider Plastic Surgery or Microneedling for a More Dramatic Change:

While adopting an effective skincare regime can do wonders for your complexion, some individuals may desire something more dramatic. Plastic surgery or microneedling might offer relief. Plastic surgery addresses issues like sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and other signs of aging which cannot be effectively managed with topical products alone. Meanwhile, microneedling employs tiny needles puncturing the skin to stimulate collagen production and enhance texture. There have also been advancements in this technology in order to treat skin irregularities safely and effectively. However, both should only be explored after consulting with qualified professionals first.

Exercise for healthy, youthful skin:

The impact of physical exercise on skin health and youthfulness is often overlooked but is actually extremely powerful for the skin. Exercise helps increase oxygenation of blood throughout the body including its surface (i.e. skin); improved blood circulation helps nourish skin cells, enhances skin elasticity, and decreases inflammation, as well as relieve stress – all which have positive ramifications for overall skin health and beauty.

Attaining youthful-looking skin requires more than simply following one regime; it takes a combination of healthy lifestyle habits and tailor-made skincare programs designed for each person’s specific skin type and concerns. By following these ten tips, you can start improving the health and appearance of your skin to attain that elusive youthful radiance!

Featured Image By: Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

May2

Jumpsuit Jams OOTD

Posted on May 2, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone and welcome to a brand new OOTD here on lifewithlilred! Last weekend, I had absolutely no time for an OOTD shoot but I did have free time last Thursday after work and made the most of it by styling two brand new outfits. I couldn’t wait to break out my new goodies from my TJMaxx haul and I felt amazing in them! To start, we’ll take a look at my look with a super cute jumpsuit by Japna and keep it posted for my OOTD featuring my other purchase, the Sincerely Jules pants, coming soon. Let’s get to it:

Who? What? Wear?

Jumpsuit: Japna, TJMaxx

Floral Platforms: Qupid, TJMaxx

Floppy Hat: Brandy Melville, PacSun

Accessories are from Target, Claire’s, and American Eagle Outfitters

Styling a jumpsuit was a different experience for me because there really wasn’t too much to do in terms of styling! But, that is the true beauty of a good jumpsuit; you merely have to slip it on and go. For a moment, as I was assembling the few pieces that this OOTD consisted of, I thought to myself that this was too simple. I guess I am still used to dressing up in multiple layers to beat the cold weather with! However, as I was putting on the finishing touches in the mirror, I found that this minimally styled look still had a lot to say and sometimes, simple is best.

Obviously, there isn’t much to report about the jumpsuit because the pants and top are built in lol but we can talk about why it worked so well! This was the first jumpsuit that I have found in years of searching that had everything I was looking for: A flattering shape, the pants weren’t too long, and there were no personal no nos like a plunging neckline or weirdly placed cutouts. But, what truly made this jumpsuit the one for me was its color. Don’t get me wrong, I love a bold hue as much as the next person, but this pretty linen shade provided the perfect backdrop against all of my colorful tattoos. With this combination, it turned my ink into accessories instead of something that would be clashing if this jumpsuit were blue or red, for example.

I have tried on countless jumpsuits in the past that were cute, yes, but way too long in the legs and not even my tallest pair of heels could fix that. In bare feet, this jumpsuit hit right at the ground and this was something that I could work around with a good pair of platforms. For shoes, I selected a pair of floral platforms my Qupid that gave me the extra length I needed while still providing a fun pop of pattern. Unfortunately, the pants of the jumpsuit were still a bit too long to get the full effect of the shoes, but I can’t make myself taller and that’s a small price to pay for finally finding a jumpsuit that I like!

With the base of my outfit ready to go, it was time to accessorize. As soon as I tried my jumpsuit on in the fitting room, I pictured it with a floppy hat and went with that initial inspiration. I chose my black floppy hat by Brandy Melville, which I love, and thought that the silhouette accomplished was oh so chic. For jewelry, I kept things minimal since my tattoos were out in the open. To add some extra length near my neck, I went with a simple pair of gold chain earrings and added a few statement bracelets and rings. And, with that, my OOTD was complete!

I felt like the absolute queen of a garden party in my Jumpsuit Jams OOTD and I am excited to wear this look out and about. This elegant but playful fit is perfect for farmers markets, afternoon cocktails, and fun in the sun! Tune in tomorrow for the blooper reel from this shoot!

Have you updated your wardrobe for spring? Is there a certain style of clothing that you have been hoping to find for a while? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May1

Working From Home 101

Posted on May 1, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! One of my goals for 2023 was to gain more opportunities to work from home. On January 3rd, this was answered through a partnership with a tech entrepreneur and I have been his in house writer ever since! It is the absolute best and now I spend my mornings working from home doing what I do best: Content creating and social media. At first, this new job was a bit stressful on top of my work schedule as an Independent Provider for people with special needs. However, I have gotten my work from home flow down pat and these simple adjustments keep my days running like a fine tuned machine:

Sticking to a schedule:

This seems like a no brainer, but a solid schedule is how I achieved optimum success. Once I learned that my mornings were going to be different, I immediately formed a schedule and a new wake up time based on how long it takes me to complete everything else I need to do. Unfortunately, this meant starting to get up at five AM every morning and that was really hard at first! However, after about a week, my body adjusted to the “early bird” BS and I am so thankful for that lol. I was able to work out to the minute how long it would take me to take care of Mel and Pen, shower, write for lifewithlilred, eat breakfast, and start WFH while still making it to all of my afternoon clients on time. In writing, it seems like a lot but this schedule sets my day up to run smoothly and I would be lost without it!

Break time:

I am an on the go type of gal and one mistake that I made when I began WFH was not allowing myself a break or two. This is why I now eat breakfast almost every day and when I have spare time, I watch an episode of Assassination Classroom on CrunchyRoll. It might not seem like it, but sitting in an uncomfortable chair in front of the computer for hours on end can be really draining – especially when you have another job to go to after! Whenever I am feeling stiff or my brain needs a breather, I know it’s time to get up and stretch or tool around on Facebook for five or so minutes to get myself back in check. All work and no breaks leads to burnout and I now know that taking a ten doesn’t hurt my work flow but help it drastically.

Communication is key:

When you work from home, obviously, your boss isn’t in the next room over so you can ask questions. Therefore, communication is key to WFH success. My boss and I are essentially on the same schedule in the morning, which means that we can hop on a conference call, game plan, and I know he’s just a call away if something doesn’t make sense. Working from home does give you some free reign, but that means nothing if you didn’t do what needs to be done correctly. I used to not be the fondest person of asking questions and now I know that this is a no no and I highly encourage check ins so everyone is on the same page.

Don’t forget to end your day:

When your home is your office, it is SO easy to forget to stop working lol. The saying goes to not bring your work home but what if your work is already at home?! Believe you me, whenever I get a new email or message from clients after hours, I want nothing more to respond immediately and that’s not good! Like any other job, clocking out at the end of the day means that you are done and it is important for your own well being to respect that. Unless it is an absolutely urgent matter, I consider my work day done at five o’clock and I am so glad for it. If you struggle with not being able to turn your work mode off, I cannot recommend setting up an out of office email enough and setting limits for yourself because you are only going to end up exhausted.

I have been working from home for five months now and it took some time for me to get the hang of it. All of the above helped me out so much and I hope some of these tips work for you too!

What are some of your own WFH tips? Do you prefer going to work in person or virtually? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Apr30

Best Girls Girl Time

Posted on April 30, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! My nieces, Valerie and Raya, are two of the best things that have ever happened to me. They have been my little besties since day one and I love watching them grow, even though I’d prefer for them to stay little forever! Last Tuesday, I finally got to spend some quality time at my sister’s house for the ultimate girl’s night in. We play, play, played, danced, and ran around the house like crazy people! The best part, though, was playing dress up with my Val Gal:

Valerie is so much like me and it never fails to warm my cold, bitter heart. She is so funny, sassy, and kind and I love her creativity. Val has taken to her dance classes like a fish to water and is eager for her TT to teach her how to ice skate. Like her ol’ T, she also has a passion for fashion. Val selects her own outfits every day and I am always excited to see what she comes up with. Future OOTD blogger in the making? I think YES!

On Tuesday, Val wanted to get fancy and I was so there for it. She proudly showed me her jewelry box filled with her Disney Princess nail polish, necklaces, bracelets, hair accessories, and random artifacts and TT got to work. First, we played nail salon and Val selected her favorite colors of polish and the pattern she wanted for her nails and toes. Like me, she insisted on nail touch ups if they smudged while drying. I was so proud. ❤

Once her nails were to her liking, she let me do her hair and I was thrilled about that because she never lets me put her hair up. I have wanted to do space buns for her for forever and they turned out as adorable as I pictured them! After her nails and hair were on fleek, it was time to accessorize and, in this case, more was more. Val put on every single bracelet she owns and I helped her clasp all of her necklaces. The look was completed with a butterfly clip and a bow in her hair and my girl was ready to work it!

I like to think of this day as when Val learned the power of the confidence boost you can get when you are wearing something that makes you happy. By the time her OOTD was done, she was not merely walking but strutting! We worked on our runway walks and poses and my heart melted when she summoned her parents to check out our handiwork by saying “Mommy, daddy! Look at me! I’m so fancy!” Haha, that’s my girl. 😀

While Val and I played dress up, my mind went into a montage of us shopping, getting our nails done, and having girl time. It made me so happy and proud and these are seriously the moments that I live for. Val is most excited for our next slumber party because we plan on playing dress up again in TT and Uncle Johnny’s closet. I think she is going to lose her mind seeing all of our scarves, hats, and jewelry at her disposal! I can’t wait. ❤

What was your favorite thing to play when you were little? What makes you feel “so fancy”? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Apr29

Better Design Your Family Home With These Tips

Posted on April 29, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Better Design Your Family Home With These Tips

When it comes to designing a family home, you want to get it just right! There will be many different things that you need to take into consideration, one of them being the safety of your kids. You shouldn’t buy things for your home that are risky to them like breakable vases or sharp corners. If you are looking to design the perfect home for your family, this post will help get you started:

Add Plenty Of Textiles:

A family home won’t feel like home unless you add in some textiles. You should think about including curtains, cushions, and throws in most rooms in a range of materials so you can create a warm and inviting space. Steer clear of natural materials as these can soak up stains and that’s not what you want with children in the house. Try not to add expensive rugs or sentimental soft furnishing in the main rooms where the kids are because no matter how hard you try, something will always get spilled!

Think About The Maintenance:

One of the best ways you can look after your family home is to think about the maintenance that will be needed when you are designing it. For example, if you are adding an AC system, you need to remember that you will need to add AC maintenance to your yearly list of tasks to get done in order to look after your home. The same applies to things such as your outdoor space. Always think about what it will take to look after the features you are adding to your home before you commit to them.

The Ideal Furniture:

Finding furniture for your family home can be difficult. You want it to look great, however, you don’t really want to spend too much on it. As your family gets older, you will be able to upgrade and buy more expensive pieces, but there is no point while the kids are young. The same applies if you also have pets. Try to avoid any jagged edges and lighter colors. Young children are prone to walking into sharp edges and making a mess on light-colored furniture.

Using Non-Slip Mats:

If you have hard floors around your home, then you should really think about adding some non-slip mats. They will help to prevent slipping from your children. They run around a lot so you need to make sure you add some protection for them. If not, hard floors can spell disaster and they could seriously injure themselves. Make sure to try to cover as much of the floor as possible, non-slip mats aren’t overly expensive and they will make sure your kids are kept safe.

Bring In The Sunlight:

You really want to bring in as much sunlight as possible to your home. If you blackout your windows or dress them wrong you could be creating a dark home. Ideally, you want to create a bright and airy space to enjoy. It will not only create a more positive environment but will boost everyone’s moods. With energy prices continuously going up at the moment, letting in natural sunlight will also help to heat up your home. If you struggle to get more light into your home, think about adding blinds where you can control both the privacy and the light coming in. You could also think about changing the type of bulbs you are using so you can get the vitamin D that you need.

Creating More Privacy:

Your home is supposed to be the most private place that you can be. This means that you definitely don’t want anyone to be able to walk past and see inside. Think about adding some trees to your front garden, or even a fence or trellis. You are only going to feel comfortable in your home if it is private so make sure you put the steps in place to ensure that you get the privacy that you and your family need. If you are thinking about planting trees, make sure you use semi-mature trees so you don’t have to wait years for them to give you the privacy that you are looking for. Consider the point above, about letting in more sunlight to your home. You need to ensure that the trees or fences that you are putting in aren’t preventing the natural light from entering your home. It’s about the right balance.

When designing a family home, it is all about the steps you can take to keep your kids safe, cut costs, and keep upkeep and maintenance low key. These tips will all help steer you in the right direction!

Featured Image By: Paige Cody on Unsplash

Apr29

Summertime Activity Goals

Posted on April 29, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! The weather in the good ol’ AK-Rowdy has been friggen abysmal and my life is in shambles lol and, for once, I find myself wishing for an extra dose of Vitamin D. Shocking, I know, since we all know that Johnny and I all but melt in the sun! Although the days are gloomy, it helps perk me up to think of activities that I would love to do this summer. I might not get to do everything I have in mind, but I know I can easily do at least a few of the following:

Hit the pool:

One of the best things about living in Timber Top, despite numerous fiascos this past year, is the outdoor pool! We actually have a really nice pool with a deep area, a children’s area, waterfall, and upper deck mini pool that I genuinely don’t understand why it’s not a hot tub! I always say that once the pool opens, I will go spend an hour or two swimming or lounging after work and I’m usually too tired by the time I get home to commit. This is not going to slide this summer, however, because this is one of the easiest things on my list; the pool is only a two minute drive away!

Botanical gardens:

I would absolutely love to go to the botanical gardens in Cleveland or Mansfield with Johnny as a date day. I have never been to the one in Cleveland, but I adored a family trip to the Kingwood Center Gardens in Mansfield with my family a few years ago. It was so much fun to explore the grounds and bask in the glory of the flowers and landscaping. And, we all know that botanical gardens make a perfect backdrop for OOTDs! This summer, I think the one in Cleveland will be the move and maybe Johnny and I could have dinner at Pepper’s, my favorite restaurant afterwards. 🙂

Play, play, play:

My sweet niece, Val Gal, is a constantly on the move four year old and she keeps me young! I cannot wait for warm days spent in my parents’ beautiful backyard running around with Val, blowing bubbles, drawing with chalk, and searching for bunnies. Speaking of bunnies, I very much would like to get a playpen with a cover on top so Melvin and Penelope can experience being on the grass. I know Val would get a huge kick out of that and it would be a great learning experience for her. This past week, she proudly showed me a book about caring for bunnies that she got from the library because she desperately wants one of her own. My angel! ❤

Outdoor events:

There are always so many awesome events happening in my general vicinity that I always say that I want to go to, check “interested in” on Facebook, and never attend. This summer, I would like to go to at least one or two, whether it be a farmer’s market, food truck festival, or outdoor concerts and classes. Johnny and I have already been talking about going to a few baseball games for Akron’s minor league team, the RubberDucks (dumb name, I know!), and I can practically taste the Dippin’ Dots as I type this! 😀

Watercolor painting:

It has been a while since I painted watercolor due to lack of time and I miss it terribly! Like going to the pool, this is also a no excuse activity that I know I can accomplish. I would like to set up my supplies in my parents’ backyard and paint the many gorgeous flowers my dad tends to. I can picture sitting on the deck right now, painting, and sipping iced tea with my mom and it would, truly, be the best afternoon ever. ❤

Weekend trip:

A weekend trip might be a bit difficult due to the current craziness in my life, but it needs to be added to this list anyway because it’s something Johnny and I want to do so badly! I would really like to get a cabin in Hocking Hills for a long weekend to hike, relax, and soak in a hot tub. It would be so nice to have a little getaway together, as we haven’t even been on our honeymoon! Although Hocking Hills isn’t Europe, it’s still as good a place as any to start our travels together.

I have grand plans for this summer, and I hope to accomplish at least a few of the activities on this list. It will take a bit of motivation on my part to shake off my general exhaustion, but I know that having fun is sometimes the best medicine of all!

What are your summertime activity goals? What is your favorite warm weather activity? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Apr27

Top Tips For A Great Night’s Sleep

Posted on April 27, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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There are so many things that get in the way of a good night’s sleep. From work stress and the responsibilities of your family, to illness and everyday life, it’s very difficult to get that quality sleep that you need. You may not be able to control factors that can interfere with your sleep, but there are habits that you can take on to encourage your sleep to be better.

You deserve to sleep through the night, and that means looking at the ways that you can upgrade your space. Whether you change your bedding from cotton to linen bedding, or you choose to get thinner bedding so that you can feel more comfortable, you need to look at what you could be doing right now to change your sleep situation. Let’s take a look at some tips to help you sleep better at nighttime:

Put yourself on a schedule:

Yes, children are the ones that often are on a schedule, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t too! Set aside no more than eight hours for sleep and try to get at least seven. A healthy adult needs to have at least seven hours of sleep per night, but most people don’t need more than that to be very well rested. If you go to bed at the same time and you set an alarm for the same time every day, you will be consistent in your body’s sleep and wake cycle. If you’re not falling asleep quickly when you go to bed, leave the room and do something relaxing. You could read or you could listen to music, and then you can go back to bed when you feel fully tired. Eventually you’re going to get your body into the right cycle.

Pay attention to your diet:

If you go to bed hungry, you’re not going to be able to rest. If you go to bed too full, you’re going to feel like you’re trying to digest while you are laying down which is not good for you or your stomach. Make sure that you are leaving at least an hour or so after you eat before you go to bed and try to avoid too much in the way of caffeine or alcohol right before bed. Nicotine and caffeine can stimulate, where alcohol can make you feel sleepy but it can disrupt your sleep later on.

Be in the right environment:

Your room should be kept cool and quiet but it should also be quite dark. Too much light can make it more of a challenge to fall asleep and you should avoid prolonged use of your phone or your tablet when you should be going to sleep. Calming activities like yoga or taking a warm bath can help you to promote better sleep and feel more comfortable.

No matter what you do, pay attention to the way your body feels after trying these new things and you will be able to ensure that you are getting the best possible night’s sleep!

Featured Image By: Pexels

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