Author Archives: lifewithlilred

About lifewithlilred

Just your average gal blogging an average blog!

Jul20

Summer Safety Pro Tips

Posted on July 20, 2024 by lifewithlilred

Hello!! I am one of those people who don’t do well in the heat at all. Part of it is definitely a low tolerance and some of it has to do with the fact that literally each medication I’m on makes me more susceptible to heat related illnesses. As someone who is constantly on the go, I oftentimes forget to not push myself so hard on extra hot days. Then, by the time I realize I should take a breather the damage is already done and a strong case of the woozies comes on. This is not a good thing because it’s something that can be completely prevented and I know I, for one, need to do a better job of listening to my body. If you struggle with the heat too, please make sure you are doing the following to keep yourself safe:

Eat Up:

My appetite decreases during the hot weather and it’s easy to feel like you’re full if you are hydrating consistently throughout the day. However, your body needs food for fuel so bypassing meals even if you don’t feel hungry is a huge no no. If you are feeling full, you should still try and have a snack if you haven’t ate in several hours. It doesn’t have to be a full on meal, but you could have veggies and hummus, yogurt, a bowl of cereal – whatever you’d like. Of course, it is against everything we learn as a kid to stop eating if you are full. But if it has been a minute and it’s really hot out, you’ll be thanking yourself for having a snack when you avoid getting lightheaded or fainting. (This happened to me a few days ago and it was SO scary!)

Water, Water, Water:

I consider myself to be the Caffeine Queen and am always sipping on coffee or pop throughout the morning. This is fine, but you will be doing yourself no favors if you aren’t replenishing yourself with plenty of water after each cup of go go juice. If you love your morning caffeine bursts too, take your time with each coffee or soda drink rather than throwing it back. Nurse it, balance it out with sips of water, and monitor yourself during your daily caffeine intake. Too much too suddenly can give you the jitters, make you nauseous, or feel faint. Not the best way to start the day.

R&R:

It’s always important to allow yourself time for a break each day, but even more so during the summer. It’s hot AF, you’re sweating, and it can make you feel depleted quickly. If you are outside, go in every hour or so to hydrate and cool off. If you are going nonstop for work, be sure to take a few minutes to slow down and relax. More often than not, that exhaustion is going to hit you out of nowhere and that’s not a good place to be during your commute, job, or out and about. Pencil in designated break times per day and if you need a moment, take it immediately instead of holding off.

Enjoy Responsibly:

Like caffeine, alcohol and cannabis hits way differently when it’s hot out and can increase your chances of dehydration or even heat stroke. If you are going to partake in a more recreational pastime, do so responsibly. Take the time to get yourself out of the heat, hydrate, and sip or smoke at a slow pace. Your “I’m good” amount is subject to change when it’s hot as the dickens so stay in tune to how you are feeling to prevent any problems!

Summer is not over yet even though I am totally over it lol. Keep yourself safe and healthy with these tips!

What are your summer safety pro tips? How do you like to cool off? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jul19

Why You Should Get Your Kids A Tutor

Posted on July 19, 2024 by lifewithlilred

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The idea of hiring a tutor for your child may seem like a questionable expense when they go to school all day. However, if your child is struggling at school to keep up or they have asked you for extra help, then getting a tutor is a great idea. It may seem like a luxury to have, but in today’s fast pace of education, sometimes you need to slow down a little and give your child the extra support that they need. Today’s tutors and tutoring programs such as the TSI placement math preparation program, can make a big difference to your child’s education. If you’re still on the fence about it, take a look at this list of positive reasons that you should say yes to hiring a tutor:

Tutors will be one on one with your child:

Tutors have the ability to give that personal attention that your child needs. Rather than feel lost in the classroom trying to answer questions and understand the concept that’s moving too quickly, your tutor could keep your child focused on the task at hand and answer any questions directly.

They can support a specific area of weakness:

Some people choose to hire specifically math tutors or English tutors because they know that their child is struggling in a particular area. Bringing grades up to scratch is so much easier if they have a tutor to help them concentrate on those subjects that they are struggling with.

Your child can grow their confidence:

Oftentimes, pupils with a tutor do not feel as self-conscious about asking for help in their subject areas that need further explanation. There’s no need to feel self-conscious because they have somebody who can help them understand at the level they are at.

It’s easier to absorb skill based learning:

Every skill can be learned, and tutors will check for understanding as they go and use practical explanations and demonstrations to help. Repetition can help students to grasp concepts easier, and when it’s in a one to one model, there’s less classroom noise and more concentration.

You can boost their existing skills and talents:

Maybe your child is already doing really well at school. Tutors are still valuable in these cases because they’ll know the potential, and they’ll know that increasing your child’s potential can improve their level of learning. The same goes for talents. Children with exceptional talent in certain learning areas can have a tutor to encourage that specific area. For example having a tutor to help learn to play the piano or grasp mathematical concepts that are a little bit above their grade is going to help them to feel more excited about learning and doing more.

Back to school is almost here and it’s important to think about how your child can succeed academically this year. A tutor can be a huge help!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jul19

(Lil) Red Hearts OOTD

Posted on July 19, 2024 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone and welcome to a brand new OOTD here on lifewithlilred! Today we’re going to take a look at a fun little fit that I put together this past weekend when we had some company over. It features a darling button down that I got for Valentine’s Day this past year, which might seem like an odd choice for summer. However, this top was so easy, breezy that it kept me cool and comfortable all day. Check it out:

Who? What? Wear?

Heart Embroidered Button Down: Jane + Delancey, TJMaxx

Jean Shorts: American Eagle Outfitters

Platform Sandals: Free People, TJMaxx

Lego Stud Earrings: AbbieDabbles

As I mentioned, I got the Jane + Delancey button down for a Valentine’s Day OOTD. Despite the fact that I bought it in the middle of winter, I thought that it would look so adorable for summertime wear. The stark white with the bright red hearts paired with little denim shorts seemed like a winning combination. Whenever I buy clothes, I gravitate towards pieces that can be worn for multiple different seasons so that I can appreciate them year round. I wanted to put the outfit that I planned in the fitting room all of those months back to the test and I am glad I did. I loved this look!

The jean shorts from American Eagle Outfitters were, of course, a given. I went with a non distressed pair since the pattern on the button down was so bold. The top is also just sweet as can be which would have clashed against edgy cuts and slashes on the shorts. As the button down had a slightly oversized fit, I tucked it in to give myself some shape and to prevent the issue of people thinking “does she have shorts on underneath that top?” Lol, the potential was definitely there without the tuck in. 😀

For shoes, I selected a pretty pair of platform sandals with stud embellishment by Free People. These are such a perfect summer shoe and the shiny cherry red straps gave another eye catching pop of color to the minimal palette established. Between the red on the shoes and button down, the look was tied together from head to toe. Finally, for earrings I chose the cutest pair of studs made by Lego leaves and ladybugs. I got it at a nearby Brick Convention last year and they were just right for this OOTD to let the open real estate on my neck do the talking. My three neck tattoos and chin tattoo are like necklaces in themselves so why add more?

Nothing pleases me more than what an outfit I have in my head goes accordingly to plan. My (Lil) Red Hearts OOTD was months in the making and it couldn’t have turned out better!

What is something in your closet that you can wear for multiple seasons? What is your favorite pattern? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jul18

What To Consider Before Adopting A Puppy

Posted on July 18, 2024 by lifewithlilred

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What To Consider Before Adopting A Puppy

Adopting a puppy is a delightful experience filled with excitement, love, and a fair share of unique challenges. Bringing home a furry friend is more than just having a cute companion; it requires careful planning and preparation if you want to provide it with a good life. Puppies are like babies – they need attention, training, and the right environment to grow up happy and healthy. So before jumping into this heartwarming journey, it’s a good idea to know what to expect and how to prepare:

Preparing Your Home:

Before your puppy arrives, make sure your home is safe and welcoming. Remove any hazardous items such as toxic plants, small objects, and electrical cords that puppies might chew on. It’s also a good idea to create a designated space for your new friend, which can be a cozy corner with a bed and some toys. Consider getting baby gates if you want to limit your puppy’s access to certain areas too. These gates help keep the puppy in safe spaces, especially when you can’t supervise them.

Puppy Training Essentials:

One of the most crucial aspects of bringing a puppy home is starting puppy training right away. Training helps build a strong bond between you and your puppy and ensures they grow up to be well-behaved. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Positive reinforcement such as treats and praise works wonders in encouraging good behavior. Consistency is key in puppy training. Make sure everyone in the household is on the same page regarding rules and commands.

Things Your Puppy Will Need:

A new puppy comes with a big shopping list! Some of the things your puppy will need include a sturdy leash and collar, a comfy bed, food and water bowls, and plenty of toys to keep them entertained. Puppies have a lot of energy and need toys to play with and chew on to keep them from getting bored and potentially destructive. High-quality puppy food is a must to ensure your puppy gets the right nutrition for growth and development as well. Consult your vet to choose the best food for your puppy’s breed and size. Lastly, don’t forget about grooming supplies such as brushes, nail clippers, and shampoo.

Health and Vet Visits:

Regular vet visits are essential to keep your puppy healthy. Your vet will guide you on the necessary vaccinations, deworming schedules, and overall health checkups. It’s important to follow through with these appointments to prevent any health issues down the line. Puppies are curious and can get into trouble, so it’s good to know the signs of common health issues.

Building a Routine:

Puppies thrive on having a routine. Establishing a regular schedule for feeding, bathroom breaks, playtime, and bedtime helps them feel secure and understand what to expect each day. Consistency helps in training as well and makes life easier for both you and your puppy. Try to take your puppy out for bathroom breaks right after eating, playing, and waking up. Over time, they’ll learn to associate these activities with specific times of the day.

A new puppy is so exciting!! Get your preparations in place and you will ensure a smooth transition when you bring your new four legged into your family.

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Jul18

Accessory Story: Vintage Gloves Edition

Posted on July 18, 2024 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! Johnny and I had a lovely Date Day during our Fourth of July staycation that included some vintage and antique shopping. I was enamored with one of the shops we visited and couldn’t stop thinking about all of the wonderful (and wildly expensive) treasures. Then, a few days later I forgot all about it because Johnny brought me home the most amazing surprise. He was helping his mom go through boxes and trunks of storage and I was presented with vintage treasures of my very own – five pairs of gloves and two clutch purses that belonged to Johnny’s grandma. Both himself and my mother-in-law thought I should have them and I was so incredibly touched. These beautiful accessories date back to the 1940s! Check it out:

When I opened the box containing my “new” accessories, I was literally stunned. I am very rarely speechless and this was one of those situations that didn’t require words. All I could think was that the vintage shops we visited could eat their hearts out because in my hands was something so special that they are invaluable. While Johnny’s grandma had a fondness for gloves, my mom’s mom was all about hats. I have at least fifteen of her vintage hats and they are some of my most prized possessions. I now have something from Johnny’s grandma that I can add to that category AND wear with some of my grandma’s hats to complete the look. ❤

…. Of course, if the gloves fit that is!

Lol, after getting over my initial shock, the next thought I had was “Wouldn’t it suck if none of them fit?”. I have very small hands but these gloves looked tiny. I kid you not that I had more butterflies in my stomach than when I go swimsuit shopping and I really hate that. However, you can always get a bigger size of a bathing suit in the store. Definitely not the case with gloves that are over eighty years old! Thankfully, the fashion gods blessed me. Despite some slight difficulties, I was able to wear each pair quite comfortably. YAY! My favorite accessories from the bunch are easily the gloves and purse from the second photo. The pinwheel style rouching on the cuffs are *chef’s kiss* and can we talk about that sequined bag? Perfect for keeping your phone, credit card, and keys in during a night out!

I am so completely over the moon over these accessories and I cannot wait to incorporate them into fall and winter OOTDs. Vintage chic styles here I come!

Do you have any relics from your grandparents? How do you add vintage vibes to your outfits? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jul17

Treat Day Ideas

Posted on July 17, 2024 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!!! Johnny and I take our roles as the “fun aunt and uncle” extremely seriously. We simply adore our nieces and nephew and consider it our job to spoil them as we don’t want children of our own. Being an aunt and uncle is awesome because we get to unleash our inner child for a few hours and then give the kiddos back to their parents! A shining example of this is “Treat Day”, which is when we pick up our oldest niece, grab some lunch, and go on a fun adventure. In fact, we just had one this past weekend at Urban Air (An indoor trampoline park). Treat Days are a fantastic way to get quality time with our littles and here are some ideas for places to go that your kiddos or nieces and nephews will love:

Trampoline Parks:

Our niece wanted to go to Urban Air for her outing with us this weekend and as it was Treat Day, we happily obliged. I haven’t been to a trampoline park since I was a teenager and it was just as much fun for Johnny and I as it was to our niece. We had an absolute blast exploring all of the different attractions that Urban Air had to offer. There was a gigantic ball pit, trampolines to bounce on, games, playgrounds and so much more. It was honestly exhausting lol but one thousand percent worth it. And, as a bonus, there is a one thousand percent chance your little will be ready for a nap afterwards – we sure were!

Museums:

There are several really cool museums in my neck of the woods as I’m sure is pretty similar for my dear readers. One of the best for kiddos in the 330 is the Akron Children’s Museum. It is an educational setting, but all of the exhibits are so entertaining and hands on that it feels more like play time than learning. This museum features stations for dress up, music, architecture, water, archaeology, engineering, and that’s just naming a few. I have easily spent an entire afternoon there with my nieces before! Museums or libraries are the tops if you still want to have an exciting day out and the weather isn’t cooperating. Your local libraries will also more than likely have free classes, programs, and events for kids too.

Zoo:

Who doesn’t love a trip to the zoo? I am actually eagerly awaiting this coming weekend for an evening at the Cleveland Zoo with my whole family for an Asian Lantern Festival! The zoo (Or aquarium on a rainy day!) is such an interactive location and has something for everyone. Every exhibit is an opportunity for your littles to learn and appreciate something new, but it will feel like an adventure. Be sure to check the events guide for your zoo visit as many of them offer times to feed the animals, attend talks given by zookeepers, and see shows. It also goes without saying that Dippin’ Dots are a complete must! 😀

Out & About:

The very first Treat Day we had with our niece was going to get Mexican food for lunch, shopping at Target so she could pick out a new toy, and going to the park. It is one of my favorite memories and just goes to show that Treat Days can be as big or as low key as you want to make it. Regardless of what you do, your little will feel special from that bonding time. Johnny and I still talk about the OG Treat Day often because our niece said SO many funny things that we like to quote. The day also ended on the most adorable note because the last thing little lady wanted to do was have her uncle set up her new Blue’s Clues playhouse for her. ❤

Back to school will be here before we know it. Make the most of sweet summertime with your kiddos by penciling in a Treat Day or two!

Did you have a favorite aunt or uncle growing up? What is your favorite museum 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

Jul16

Born To Ball OOTD

Posted on July 16, 2024 by lifewithlilred

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Hello everyone and welcome to a brand new OOTD here on lifewithlilred! Today, we’ll be taking a look at a little number that I wore for a lunch date with a few friends this past weekend. It might not look like a classic summer fit with jeans and an All Black Everything aesthetic to which I reply: 1) It’s always cold AF in the Mexican restaurant we went to. And 2) Does an elder emo really let something like summer stand in the way of wearing black? The answer is a resounding NO! Lol, check it out:

Who? What? Wear?

Ballin Crop Top: Reason, PacSun

Skinny Jeans: 1822 Denim, TJMaxx

Platform Heels: These were purchased from ModCloth

Leopard Necklace: Natasha, TJMaxx

Stud Earrings: American Eagle Outfitters

My first job was working retail at PacSun. I started working there at sixteen and stopped in my early twenties when I went to college. Prior to working at Pac, I already had a deep love for fashion and being surrounded by clothes every day helped foster this passion even more. I still have several relics from my time there that I don’t think I could ever part with. As you can see, one of them is my “Ballin” crop top by Reason. I remember when this crop arrived in shipment, thinking that I had to have it, and bought it immediately after my shift. It is so sassy, fun and still looks great for being over a decade old if I do say so myself! I wanted to keep my lunch outing look casual while, as always, still being cute so I began styling my OOTD around it.

Normally, I prefer to wear my crop top with shorts but I didn’t want to freeze my nads off at the restaurant so jeans it was. This crop hits right below the natural waist so I went with my pair of skinnies by 1822 Denim. These were a recent purchase from TJMaxx and are my new go tos – peep that adorable distressing at the ankle! Even if these jeans weren’t my favorite, I would have worn them anyways because of the fit. These skinnies have a very slight high waist which worked perfectly with the top. It still showed some skin but no more than what I was comfortable with and it gave a peek a boo pop to the tattoos on my sides and back.

Next, it was onto shoes and accessories. Because of the minimal color palette, I wanted to add something bold for jewelry. I chose a chunky and blinged out necklace by Natasha featuring a leopard head nestled between the gold chain. I don’t think it gets bolder than that so I put on a small pair of gold dangly studs to let the statement necklace do all of the talking. For shoes, I selected one of my favorite pairs of platforms from ModCloth. They are so ideal for summertime and the pattern and necklace gave some visual interest from top to bottom to keep the eyes dancing. With that, I was ready to get my Margarita on!

So there you have it! My Born To Ball OOTD. Stay tuned for lots more fashion and fun on lifewithlilred!

What was your first job? What was your favorite store to shop at as a teenager? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jul15

Johnny’s Record Shelf

Posted on July 15, 2024 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! One of the gifts that I gave to Johnny for his birthday this past June was a new record player. Oddly enough, we had three in the apartment that were his old relics and none of them worked lol. It has been so nice to have a functional record player again and we have loved playing music and board games and hanging out in our game room. The only thing that wasn’t ideal was housing the records. Johnny’s collection is extensive and by that I mean, he has over three hundred vinyls! Thankfully, Johnny came up with an ingenious solution to this issue and he built it all by himself – and some help from his dad. 🙂 Check it out:

Ever since our new record player arrived in the mail, Johnny got to work by organizing his collection and giving the game room a deep clean. We soon found that no amount of rearranging or condensing was going to give the records a true home, though. So Johnny turned his attention to the closet and decided that it would work perfectly. He definitely had big things in mind because rather than going to the store to buy some shelves, he thought he would make them instead. He took measurements, sketched a plan, bought all of the lumber and supplies, and dedicated a day during our staycation to build them with his dad. Johnny is a handy guy, but this was on a whole other level and I was very impressed!

Johnny’s dad has an amazing workshop and they spent an afternoon cutting, drilling, and doing what needed to be done so Johnny could take the parts home and assemble them with screws. When I returned home from my outing later that day, I found Johnny in the game room putting the final touches on his handiwork. I honestly couldn’t believe my own eyes when I saw it! The shelves were sturdy, fit just right in our closet, and turned the endless crates of records into an actual display. I know I was proud of the accomplishment, but it was even better to see Johnny so proud of it too. He put a lot of time and effort into this project and worked really hard to make it happen. Our game room is the best ever because of it. ❤

The record shelves Johnny built were a win in so many ways. He got to spend time with his dad, our game room looks awesome, and he found a new hobby too. Johnny enjoyed the build so much that he plans on trying his hand at cornhole boards next. I can’t wait!

Have you done any projects around the house recently? How did they turn out? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jul14

New Rachel Zoe Handkerchief Top

Posted on July 14, 2024 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! I had a lovely outing with myself during my break on Tuesday doing some shopping at TJMaxx with a birthday gift card. It was definitely hard going back to work after some time off so it was the perfect little treat! During this shopping trip, I lucked out with two new clearance finds that I am loving. You saw the fabulous sweater dress yesterday and, today, we are going to be looking at an adorable little number by Rachel Zoe. It features all of my favorite things – A chartreuse color, fun bling, and a handkerchief cut which is one of my go tos. This top was thirteen dollars and is a small price to pay for a top that truly screams summer in all of its citrusy glory. Check it out:

Unless I am shopping for something very specific, I let the garments do the talking at TJMaxx. When I am browsing, I am looking simply for what catches my eye. It could be a quirky pattern or color or an interesting cut or material, my only requirement is that it makes me do a double take. As I perused the clearance racks, I noticed something sparkly and realized that the bright orange and yellow gemstones were the “sleeves” to a top. I was instantly intrigued and was even more so when I saw what the bling was holding up – a little chartreuse masterpiece. AND the only one in store, thank you very much. 😀

Literally just looking at this top made me happy because it is the answer to the question “what if sunshine was a shirt?” It is bright, poppy, and as if lemon lime soda became a handkerchief top. I have quite a few different options of this style in my wardrobe, but none quite like this. And, yes, it is all because of the gem spaghetti straps! It adds such a playful touch to a more revealing top and, in my opinion, makes it sweet rather than too sexy. The sheen of the fabric against the bling bling is a dazzling display and I feel SO lucky to have found it. I cannot wait to wear it ASAP with jean shorts or a sassy black and white bodycon skirt (Chunky platforms are a given!)!

Although I am by no means a fan of summer, this new top might help the cause a bit. I don’t think anyone, myself included, could wear it and not want to have some fun in the sun!

What catches your eye when you’re shopping? What is your favorite color to wear? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jul13

New Heartloom Sweater Dress

Posted on July 13, 2024 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! For my thirtieth birthday, my parents gave me the most perfect prezzie – a TJMaxx gift card! It has been burning a hole in my pocket since and I finally got the chance to spend it during a low key afternoon this past week. While I love to shop at TJs at the turn of each season, I also love to shop during the in between too. Who am I kidding? I love to shop there all of the time! But, during this interim period of “still summer but not quite back to school” is when they bring out the more unique pieces that might not have sold well before. You can really find some clearance treasures during these non-peak shopping times and I definitely did! I am obsessed with this new sweater dress by Heartloom that I got marked down for twenty dollars. I can’t wait to wear it to the next Misnyland picnic I’ll be working! Check it out:

During mine and Johnny’s Fourth of July staycation, we had a Date Day and went vintage shopping and antiquing. I walked away with some fabulous new accessories, but no clothes. However, the clothes we saw deeply inspired me and I still find myself thinking about some of the amazing pieces a week later! As I browsed the “anything goes” clearance section, I literally clutched my pearls when I stumbled upon this sweater dress by Heartloom. It was the only one in store, happened to be in my size, and looked like it was straight out of a 1970s fashion magazine. I was totally and completely sold and I hadn’t even tried it on yet.

I simply adore this dress because it is just so different and retro. It turned a classic sweater dress on its head with the short sleeves, huge buttons, and funky raised pattern. And can we please talk about how the color palette looks like every kitchen appliance from the 70s?! SO fun. As soon as this dress was on, it was a certified winner and I was delighted to find something new to wear to the upcoming picnic event. I plan on sporting this dress with a gorgeous pair of pebble grey knee high boots and some statement earrings for a modern take on vintage staples. Crossing an OOTD off my to do list: Check. 😀

A TJMaxx gift card is the way to my heart and all I have to say is – thanks for the new dress mom and dad! You’re the best! ❤

When is your favorite time of the year to shop? What era of fashion inspires you? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

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