Author Archives: lifewithlilred

About lifewithlilred

Just your average gal blogging an average blog!

Mar24

Oh So Cozy OOTD Bloopers

Posted on March 24, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Hello everyone and welcome to the blooper reel from my Oh So Cozy OOTD! Yesterday, we took a look at what went right from this OOTD shoot and, today, we will take a gander at what went horribly wrong. This blooper reel features plenty of weird faces, rogue hair sticking up, and taking a moment out of the picture taking process to think about life. Let’s get to it:

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

Going to church on my apartment’s balcony

Not so much a blooper as a complaint that every time I take pictures, without fail, a piece of my hair ends up sticking up like this:

Lol I swear to stoned I’m not god… I really wasn’t stoned in this picture, but it sure looks like it

My “whomp whomp” face, ravishing as always

I couldn’t tell you the amount of times I make this face a day when Johnny says something funny!

Lol, lost my balance a little bit here so let’s take a moment and regain my composure…

By making this face and thinking about every instance in my life that lead up to this moment

A very vibey edition of GIVE ME BACK MY PHOOOOOOOOOONE

Every morning when I sit down to write, I let Melvin and Penelope come out to explore the bunny proofed area until I leave for work. It is my current situation at this very moment and this process is such a blooper in itself. Bunnies are very active in the morning and as I write, I constantly have one eye on the computer and one eye scanning the room to keep track of my pets. I swear, I blink and they are onto a new area before I even have time to open my eyes!

As the bunnies are zooming about the room (Yes, they most definitely get the zoomies too!), I stay on high alert to put out the fires of their adorable mischief. Penelope, for example, freaking loves chewing on our windowsill so I get up to divert her attention every time I hear her munching. Nine times out of ten, however, I will turn around to get back to the computer and she’ll just start chewing again lol SMH. Pen also has a tendency to get stuck on the few stairs that I let them climb so her old mama comes in for the rescue whenever she alerts me of her distress. *Face palm*

Melvin is my tiny wanderer and he is always zipping around the room looking for an adventure. One second he’s on top of a Chewy box, next thing I know he’s on the stairs, and before I realize it he’ll be halfway across the room trying to get under the couch. I can tell that he is especially pleased with himself when he evades me or Johnny by playing hide and go seek under our sofa or wandering into the kitchen through the holes in the baby gate. One morning when we first got them, I seriously spent forty-five minutes trying to get him from under the couch into his hutch!

As the bunnies go about their blooper filled morning of cuteness, I have bloopers of my own that are just unfortunate. I am constantly tripping over my computer cord, slipping on the dip in our flooring, and hoisting myself over baby gates because I’m too lazy to open them. As long as they’re having fun, I guess! Haha, now if you’ll excuse me, Penelope has just started chewing again! ❤

What are some blooper things that your pets do? What are some of the nicknames you have for your pets? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Mar23

Oh So Cozy OOTD

Posted on March 23, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone and welcome to a brand new OOTD here on lifewithlilred!! Although the weather has warmed up significantly this week, spring was still nowhere to be found over the weekend. It was SO cold with lots of snow flurries so I knew that I would have to dress warmly, despite shorts weather being on my mind heavily. For hopefully one of the last times until fall, I went shopping in the cold weather department of my wardrobe and this is what I came up with:

Who? What? Wear?

Knit Poncho: Loft

Chartreuse Sweater: For The Republic, TJMaxx

Coated Skinny Jeans: Seven Jeans, TJMaxx

Platform Boots: Forever 21

Pendant Necklace: Urban Outfitters

Creating weekly OOTDs for lifewithlilred was my goal for 2023 and I have been crushing it so far. At first, selecting outfits was a simple feat because I have so many clothes that haven’t been featured on OOTD posts before. However, it definitely got more challenging as time went on and new to all of you pieces dwindled. This meant that I had to begin getting even more creative with my choices to breathe new life into older clothes and things that you have seen before. Thankfully, Lil Red never shies away from a challenge and I have been having a blast with it. I love what I came up with this past weekend!

Due to the weather, I was limited to fall and winter clothes and that really narrowed down the outfit building process. I played around with different sweaters, wraps, and button downs but was left feeling bored. So, I decided to clear my tunnel vision and explore options that I might have vetoed in the past for OOTD posts by deeming them “too old”. Afterwards, the inspiration came and I knew I was on the right track as soon as my eyes landed on my knit poncho from Loft.

This poncho is an oldie but goodie and is about seven years old. I got it on a family vacation while outlet shopping with my mom, but never wore it as much as I originally thought. Now, I am kicking myself in the butt for it because it’s so great! The shape is, honestly, perfect and is more form fitting than any poncho I have ever seen in stores since. I like this because something cozy doesn’t always have to mean oversized and the thick cable knit still left me plenty warm.

Because the Loft poncho fits more snugly, I had to be careful about what I chose to wear underneath it. Anything too bulky would make me look like a marshmallow and I really didn’t want to lose the poncho’s close to my body shape. My solution was to pair it with one of my favorite sweaters by For The Republic. It is super light with not too much wiggle room in the torso and bell sleeves. It was an ideal combination because the poncho laid so nicely over top of it but the flowy sleeves were exposed and added lots of movement. Also, I can’t get enough of the striking chartreuse shade – one of my favorite colors to wear.

For the jeans, I went with my pair by Seven Jeans to add some variety in the texture department. With cozy knitwear featured on top, I wanted the coated snakeskin patterned skinnies to liven things up. I loved the way that the sheen in the pants played against the more matte hues on top and it added much more visual interest than a regular old pair of jeans. One of my goals when styling outfits is to create looks that makes the eyes dance; incorporating different textures is one of the best ways to do this.

With the base of my outfit settled, it was time for shoes and accessories. For shoes, I wore my Forever 21 platforms to create a long leg line with the skinny jeans. The flame detailing on the back of the heel also added a fun pop of color to a minimal palette. For accessories, I didn’t want to wear dangly earrings as I wanted my neck exposed since almost all of me was covered up. The blank canvas of the poncho, however, was begging for a necklace! To complete the look, I put on a long gold pendant by Urban Outfitters and I was out the door!

My Oh So Cozy OOTD kept me snug as a bug and totally feeling myself all day. It was also a fantastic reminder to explore every single option in my wardrobe because, apparently, that’s where the magic happens. Keep it posted for the blooper reel tomorrow!

How old is the oldest thing in your closet? At what temperature do you start wearing spring clothes? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Mar22

The Power Of Focusing On Family Health

Posted on March 22, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Health is something that affects every family. Despite the numerous advantages of consistent exercise, a healthy diet, and other lifestyle behaviors, many families find it challenging to work these habits into their daily schedules. However, by emphasizing the value of family wellness, parents can foster a culture in which their kids can start developing healthy habits at an early age, preparing them for success as adults:

The Power of Healthy Habits:

Developing healthy habits from an early age is essential for promoting a lifetime of good health. Studies have shown that children learn best through example, so it’s important for parents to lead by example and demonstrate healthy behaviors throughout the day. This includes eating nutritious meals, staying active, and getting enough sleep each night. Parents can also set aside time for family activities like going for walks or playing sports together – activities which encourage physical activity as well as quality bonding time.

Creating a Healthy Environment in the Home:

Parents should work to establish a healthy environment in the home in addition to focusing on their own habits. This includes providing wholesome meals and snacks for the family as well as making sure that there are always healthy choices accessible. Parents can also set limits on screen time and encourage activities like reading or playing board games instead. Having a regular bedtime routine, including winding down before bed, is also important for helping children get enough quality sleep each night.

Benefits of Raising a Health-Conscious Family:

Raising a health-conscious family has numerous benefits for both parents and children. Start by setting clear expectations about healthy habits, such as regular physical activity, eating nutritious meals, and getting enough sleep each night. It will be simpler to remain motivated and incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine when everyone in the family is on the same page. Regularly discussing the importance of health with your children can also help them understand why these choices are beneficial in the long run.

Keeping Up With Medical Check-Ups and Exams:

It’s also important for parents to ensure that their children are up-to-date with all necessary medical check-ups and exams, such as hearing tests. Hearing loss can be a common issue in children, so it’s important to catch any hearing problems as early as possible. If hearing aids are needed, getting them fitted promptly is essential for reducing the risk of developing speech or language delays due to hearing loss. Having hearing aids fitted when recommended will ensure that your child can hear properly and participate fully in school and other activities.

By making family health and wellness a priority in the home, parents can help create an environment of healthy habits that will last well into adulthood. From leading by example to incorporating preventive care into your routine, there are many ways parents can promote overall well-being in their household. By taking these steps now, families have the opportunity to create a lifetime of good health for themselves.

Featured Image By: Terje Sollie

Mar22

Keeping Your Home Clean – Even With A Pet!

Posted on March 22, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Keeping Your Home Clean – Even With A Pet!

Are you thinking about bringing a pet into your life? If so, then it’s important to make sure that the right precautions are taken to keep your home in good shape during the process. New pets have lots of exploring to do in their new digs, which can sometimes lead to disaster! Here are some of the key points to consider:

Choose The Right Option:

First, you need to make sure that you are choosing the right pet. If you have a smaller home, for example, you might want to avoid bringing home a larger breed of dog. It could be in your best interest to think about a smaller dog like a Terrier rather than a German Shepherd. Larger dogs can also be more difficult to train and control. You should also think about how much time you are going to have for your pet. Some dogs need almost constant attention or company to keep them happy. If you’re out a lot of the day, then a cat could be a better choice. They are more independent.

Training:

With a new pet, it is crucial to put in the time and effort to train them from day one. There are lots of training options that are going to make your life a little easier in the long run. For instance, you might want to think about training them to chew their toys instead of your furniture. This is particularly important when your pet is teething. If you don’t train your pet, you can’t be mad when they do something you don’t like!

Pest Treatment:

Pets can mean pests in your home. Some of the common pests include fleas and tics. The good news is that this doesn’t have to be an issue. You just need to make sure that you invest in the right pest treatment. A lot of vets will provide this as a standard. As such, you don’t have to worry about it costing you a fortune. Dog flea treatment and other pest solutions are available to purchase directly at a low cost from a wide range of sources.

Cleaning Products:

Finally, you need to make sure that you are choosing the right cleaning products and equipment. If you are bringing a dog into your home, it’s important to be aware that some breeds shed more than others. The best way to stop your home from becoming a furry nightmare is to make sure that you have the right pet vacuum. The best pet vacuum will ensure that your floors are spotless in a matter of seconds. You should also research carpet cleaners if you are worried about your pet causing stains that can permanently damage your carpet. Or, alternatively, consider switching to flooring that is easier to maintain such as laminate tiles.

Bringing a new pet home is exciting! Keep the good vibes in check by preparing accordingly so you can focus on your new friend as opposed to a potential mess!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Mar22

Happy Birthday, Mom!!!!

Posted on March 22, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!!! Today is a fantastic, wonderful day because it is my mom’s birthday!! My mom is my best friend in the whole world and, I hate to brag, but she’s the best mom in the whole world too. Every day she inspires me with her strength, bravery, and positivity and I am a better person because of it. People always seem to have a fear of turning into their parents as they age, but that is far from the case with me. As I get older and catch myself doing “mom-isms” of my own, I feel proud to be even an iota like her! Check out this stunning beauty:

My mom fiercely loves her family, grandchildren, and pets and faces every single hardship with a smile on her face because of it. She radiates joy and it is impossible to be in a bad mood around her. And, if you are, you’ll forget about it after just a few minutes of being with her. Even at almost twenty-nine, a hug from my mom still serves as my favorite cure all and I always can’t wait to see her again as soon as our visits end. ❤

As I type this, Melvin and Penelope are out running around and I have my mom to thank for that. Watching her care for our family dogs and be an A+ pet parent all of my life makes me want to provide nothing less for my bunnies. As I type this, my watercolor flowers that we just painted together are still on my desk and I have my mom to thank for that too. By signing herself, me, and my sister up for a class this past summer, she gave me and her a brand new hobby to do together. I feel proud that she encouraged all of us to try something different and that we are still painting several months later.

Everything I love, I have my mom to thank for because she has been with me every step of the way with her endless support and unconditional love. Being her daughter is a gift and I love her so very, very much. Happy birthday to the best mom and I will see you later today!

❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤

Mar21

Reduce Chicken Skin With These Tips

Posted on March 21, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Chicken skin, or keratosis pilaris, can cause redness and bumps on the skin. It is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is generally caused by an overproduction of keratin, the protein responsible for forming our skin’s texture and protection. Fortunately, several treatments are available to help reduce the appearance of chicken skin and keep it from returning:

Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers:

To control chicken skin, it’s essential to use gentle cleansers and moisturizers when dealing with it. Strong soaps can irritate the sensitive bumps on the surface of the skin. Cleansers with lactic acid can help reduce redness, improve hydration, and create a smoother texture. Once your face or body has been cleansed, a moisturizer should be used to keep the affected area soft and prevent itching. When choosing a product, look for something that contains hydrating ingredients like glycerin or shea butter, as they can lock in moisture without clogging pores.

Exfoliate regularly:

Exfoliating regularly is the best way to keep your skin looking smooth and healthy. Be sure to use a gentle exfoliant suited for sensitive skin. Exfoliation helps shed away dead cells on the surface of the skin, revealing brighter, healthier skin and allowing moisturizers to be absorbed more easily. Start slow, taking time with each section of the affected area by softly massaging it with an exfoliator in circular motions with lukewarm water. Regular exfoliation helps prevent chicken skin from occurring while also providing some relief from existing lesions in less severe cases.

Apply topical retinoid creams:

Correctly applying topical retinoid creams when dealing with chicken skin is one of the most effective treatments for this condition. Dermatologists may recommend topical retinoid creams containing an active ingredient called tretinoin. Not only does this help exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores, but it also helps to reduce inflammation caused by keratosis pilaris. When applying topical retinoid creams, it is essential to follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully to avoid potential side effects like skin irritation or dryness. Additionally, applying sunscreen when exposed to direct sunlight is recommended to prevent further damage.

Get help from an expert:

An expert dermatologist can be invaluable when treating Keratosis Pilaris (commonly referred to as Chicken Skin). Dermatologists can assist in managing this condition by prescribing topical creams or lotions. Also, they may suggest over-the-counter products and give personalized advice on skincare routines to keep skin moist as dryness can exacerbate keratosis pilaris symptoms. Dermatologists may also provide in-office treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy to lessen the appearance of bumps. While medication can help manage symptoms effectively, there’s no permanent solution for keratosis pilaris; ongoing care may be necessary.

Avoid harsh products:

To correctly manage chicken skin and avoid flare-ups, it is essential to steer clear of harsh soaps, perfumes, and irritating fabrics like wool. Harsh soaps can strip away vital oils that protect the skin and keep its natural pH balance intact. Fragrances are particularly troublesome because they often contain ingredients that cause redness and itching. Additionally, fabrics such as wool can be highly irritating when they come in contact with the skin. Sticking with softer or more cotton materials is best to ensure optimal comfort levels. Taking these small steps can significantly reduce symptoms of chicken skin and provide increased relief from uncomfortable conditions associated with this condition.

Use aloe vera gel:

Aloe vera is a popular remedy for treating various skin irritations, including chicken skin. It has anti-inflammatory and otherwise cooling properties which are deeply soothing for dry, sensitive skin. The gel derived from the aloe vera plant should be applied directly to affected areas of the skin and gently massaged in. This will work to reduce both redness and irritation that can often accompany chicken skin.

Using aloe vera regularly is an essential step towards effective and lasting management of this condition because it works as an antioxidant, protecting against oxidative stress, which can cause further damage to already sensitive skin. Allowing aloe vera gel to rest on the surface of the skin at least once per day can lead to reduced itchiness, improved texture, and fewer outbreaks over time.

Drink plenty of water daily:

Proper hydration of the skin is essential to restoring its natural balance when dealing with chicken skin. While moisturizing creams and treatments can help improve dry, itchy, and bumpy patches associated with chicken skin, drinking plenty of water daily is integral for internal and external healthy skin. When your body receives a consistent supply of water it helps detoxify the skin, delivers oxygen to all cells allowing them to regenerate efficiently, and regulates the body’s temperature – all of which are key for healing chicken skin. Be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water every day to avoid further dehydration of the skin.

These are just a few ways that you can manage and treat chicken skin. With the right combination of treatments, it is possible to control this condition and prevent flare-ups!

Mar21

She Sells Seashells

Posted on March 21, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!!! I work as an Independent Provider for people with special needs and specialize in community inclusion and daily living skills. I have worked in the field for almost a decade and all of my clients new and old will always hold a very special place in my heart. It is the best job in the whole world and I am so thankful to have assisted so many amazing families. It means so much to be trusted to provide quality care and I deliver nothing less every day at work.

Whenever I can’t see my clients due to vacations or days off, I miss them terribly! My days feel so off without my normal shifts and all smiles and I couldn’t wait for one of my clients to return from a family vaca. I know for a fact this young man was missing me too because he collected seashells on the beach just for me and proudly presented them when I saw him again:

When I was given my seashells, I seriously almost cried. I was SO touched that my client took the time out of his vacation to search for shells that he thought I would like. He was completely right, because I LOVE them. He told me that they have to drive to the beach next time because all of the shells that he wanted to bring me wouldn’t fit on the plane! I cannot wait to find a pretty jar to house my shells in and display it on my knick knack shelves so I can see them and smile every day. ❤

Between three jobs, I am a busy lady. However, I will never be too busy to see my clients; I simply could not imagine my life without any of them! It brings me such great joy to teach new things when I am at work, but every day, I am the one who learns something new. My seashells will serve as a reminder to always be thoughtful, generous, and kind – just like the dear young man who gave them to me. I am the lucky one to even know him and feel proud to continue to grow as people together!

As the weather in Ohio remains awful, I will be on the beach in the sunshine every time I see my seashells. Always turn your face towards the sun and have the best day, darling friends!

Where is your dream vacation location? Who has seashells on display in their home? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Mar20

Find Your Dream Home In 2023

Posted on March 20, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Searching for your dream home can be an exciting yet daunting task. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. However, following a few simple steps can make the process much easier, and you can be well on your way to finding the perfect place for you! Let’s get started:

Determine Your Budget:

The first step is to determine your budget. It is important to understand how much you can afford to spend on a home. This will help you narrow your search to homes within your price range. You can also get pre-approved for a mortgage to better understand what you can afford.

Create a List of Must-Haves and Nice-to-Haves:

Once you have determined your budget, the next step is to create a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. This is most helpful if you are working with an estate agent like those at Wooster & Stock Estate Agents Camberwell (Or a similar company in your local area). When you provide a list of home must haves for an estate agent, they can focus their search on homes that meet your specific criteria.

Some examples of must-haves might include:

A certain number of bedrooms

A specific location

A certain style of home

Nice-to-haves might include:

A swimming pool

A large backyard

A gourmet kitchen

Chase The Dream:

If the kind of home you crave cannot be found by simply moving across town, then are you ready to chase the dream? Perhaps you want to be immersed in a big city. Maybe you want somewhere quiet in a wooded area. Or do you dream of sprawling land and livestock at Ranches in south Texas? Even if this big of a move isn’t possible right now, do not put it on the back burner. If a move to a new state is your goal, you would be wise to stay put and save until you can make it happen.

Start Searching for Homes:

After you have created your list of must-haves and nice-to-haves, it’s time to start searching for homes. There are many ways to search for homes, including working with a real estate agent, using online real estate websites, or driving around neighborhoods to look for “For Sale” signs. You can also attend open houses to get inspiration for what you are looking for in a home.

Consider Your Home/Apartment Size:

Your home or apartment size is essential when searching for your dream home. For example, you may need a home with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms if you have a large family. On the other hand, if you are a single person or a couple, a smaller home or apartment may be more appropriate. Looking into different shapes, like square apartments, may also be of interest to you. It’s important to consider your current lifestyle and any potential future changes when deciding the size of your home.

Schedule Visits to See Homes in Person:

When you find a home that interests you, schedule a visit to see it in person ASAP. This will give you a better idea of the layout, the size of the rooms, and the home’s overall condition. It’s also a good idea to take notes and pictures to compare homes later. If you are working with a real estate agency, this is something that we highly recommend. Your agent will be able to handle scheduling and alert you to houses that might not be listed online yet. They can also accompany you to home visits for advice in that very moment.

Make an Offer and Move Forward with the Home Buying Process:

Once you have found a home you love, it’s time to make an offer. Your real estate agent can help you with this process, which involves submitting a written offer to the seller. The seller will then have the option to accept, reject, or counter your offer. If your offer is accepted, you will move forward with the home-buying process, including getting a home inspection, securing financing, and closing the sale.

Although searching for your dream home can be a long process, remember that it’s worth taking the time to find the right home for you and your family. Happy moving!

Featured Image By: cottonbro studio on Pexels

Mar20

Watercolor Flowers

Posted on March 20, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! My mom, sister, and I learned the joys of watercolor painting after taking a class together last July. It was so much fun and it inspired my mom and I to take it up as a hobby. I even treated all of us to an at home class last month as an early birthday gift for my mom! During our at home class, our wonderful teacher conducted a painting session on roses and I am so proud of my mom for her dedication to practicing watercolor in her downtime. This past week, I was finally able to paint with her during a visit and decided to see what I could remember of painting roses. I also tried my hand at pansies! Check it out:

I like to fancy myself as a creative person in terms of writing, fashion, and figure skating. However, I have never considered myself an artistic person until trying watercolor painting; I can barely draw a stick figure! Quitting my day job for a career in painting is not in my future, but I feel proud of myself whenever I paint anything and it doesn’t turn out awful. At the end of the day, I am trying something new and enjoying myself and that’s the most important thing.

A month had gone by since learning how to paint roses and while I definitely need a refresher, I felt pretty good about the two I made on the first page. The red one is my favorite! In fact, I was having so much fun painting with my mom that I wanted to try something completely new: Pansies. Pansies are one of my favorite flowers and they always remind me of my grandma, who would tend to beautiful window boxes filled with them. The variety of colors and delicate petals speak to me and I know that spring has officially sprung when I start to see them at stores!

To start, I tried to paint a pansy from memory and that didn’t go too hot. A reference picture was a must and I found some great drawings of pansies that were most helpful for my next attempts. Although none of the paintings I tried on the second page look perfectly pansy, I could kind of see it. I also felt like I got a decent grasp on what must be done to improve for next time and that’s good enough for me! I am especially pleased with the one in the top right as well as the flower directly below it. While I love taking watercolor classes, it was an extra feather in my cap to try something brand new all by myself!

I can’t wait to paint again with my mom and am looking forward to giving pansies another go. Practice makes perfect, amiright?!

What is your favorite medium of art to work with? In what ways are you creative or artistic? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Mar19

Lil Red: A Creature Of Habit

Posted on March 19, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! At the moment, I have three jobs and my life has been very busy. I work as a provider for people with special needs, create daily content for lifewithlilred and complete online work, and I just began a new marketing gig in January. At some point this year, I will cut back on my work in the field and give myself more time to not only work from home, but relax with a less demanding schedule. For now, however, I am enjoying the ride and I love seeing all of the hard work I put into lifewithlilred come into fruition in my new job.

With three jobs under my belt as well as being a very active bunny mom, I have been asked a lot since the beginning of the year how I have been managing. I am no stranger to working several jobs at once so this isn’t a brand new situation for me, but it does help a lot that Lil Red is, first and foremost, A Creature Of Habit. Because of this, my days run like a fine tuned machine and all of the following components help me to achieve this:

Sticking To A Schedule:

My schedule is the most important thing to achieve optimum success during the work week. Without it, I wouldn’t have the time to care for the bunnies in the morning, create content, and work from home before going to a client’s home. This morning routine came into place this past November when Johnny and I brought Mel and Penelope home, but it became an absolute necessity when I started my new job at the beginning of the year. Of course, waking up at five AM is not my idea of a good time in the slightest. However, if I don’t, my work day wouldn’t end until six or so in the evening and that sounds like less of a good time to me. Sticking to this schedule has lots of obvious benefits and my weekend days feel very off when I don’t have to follow through with it!

Forming Good Habits:

Prior to bringing the bunnies home, I was able to sleep in a bit later and was never too pressed if I had to hit the snooze button once, twice, or several times! As wonderful as it was to get the extra Zs, this was a habit that I needed to break for my day to run smoothly. Believe you me, I would LOVE to hit the snooze every morning and if I am extra tired, I will every now and then. But, I like being able to relax when I get home from work rather than work more. Fighting the urge to hit the snooze is definitely a habit that I am glad to have made.

Another good habit that I have formed fairly recently is establishing a meal schedule. Since my days shifted to a much earlier time and I have a lot to do, I go from hungry to hangry really quickly and that is not okay. During my mornings at home, I have penciled in time to have an actual breakfast, pack a snack or lunch for later in the day, and not be completely ravenous by dinnertime. I have come to realize how important it is to fuel my body for long work days and it has helped so much in reducing how rundown I have been feeling.

Take A Break:

Going nonstop is my forte, but it’s not a good thing to be gifted in lol. If I have the time after online work in the morning, I have given myself permission to take a break. Usually I will give my brain some breathing room by watching one episode of Assassination Classroom on Crunchyroll or reading a chapter or two in whatever book I’m working on. Because I work for myself, no one but me tells me when it’s time to rest for a bit. If I had an employee, I would most certainly allow for breaks for them, so why not me too? Even little breaks throughout the day to stretch and hydrate are helpful and it keeps me from completely crashing later. Total win/win!

Creating a schedule and habits that work for me took a decent amount of trial and error, but I am fully satisfied with the end result. I am proud of the work that I accomplish and, honestly, look forward to getting up every morning to see where the day takes me!

How important is a schedule to you? What do you like to do during break time? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

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