Tag Archives: family

3 Reasons Why You Should Consider A Dog For Your Family

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3 Reasons Why You Should Consider A Dog For Your Family

Anyone who has ever had a dog will know how affectionate they are, what good company they make, and how it can be a huge bonus to simply have one in your home. If you have never had a dog and you’re considering getting one for your family, there are some excellent reasons why that is a wonderful idea. Children (and adults) can benefit enormously from a dog. So if your children have asked you whether they can have one and you’re wavering on your decision, take a look at these reasons, and you might find yourself convinced:

Good Friend:

Children can easily fall out with their human friends. They can have arguments. They can be upset. Maybe they’re sick and can’t play. With a dog as a companion, however, none of that will happen.

A dog will never stop enjoying your child’s company, and will prevent them from feeling depressed and lonely. A dog can easily and quickly become your child’s best friend, and you can rest assured that there will be no bullying or disagreements that lead to a miserable, crying child who needs comforting. Your child might even find that they can confide in their dog when they have no one else to talk to, which reduces worry. Plus, a dog is great entertainment that can make your child feel better when they are angry, nervous, sad, or stressed.

Good For Health:

Having a dog as a pet is connected to having good health. Dogs love to be outside playing, running, chasing a ball, playing fetch, and learning tricks. Of course, they also need to be walked at least once a day. Therefore, if your child is the one taking care of their dog, they will also be outside more, be more active, and generally feel better and healthier all around. Walking their dog means that your kid is not sitting in front of a TV or computer screen, and it helps to maintain a healthy weight (along with a balanced diet). Breathing fresh air is a wonderful thing.

For younger children, parental supervision will be required on these walks away from home, so it’s good for the entire family. On top of all of this, studies have shown that having a dog gives your child a strengthened immune system, so they are less likely to get sick and will be less prone to allergies.

Good Life Skills:

A child will spend a lot of time playing with and caring for their dog, and in doing so, they will constantly be developing valuable skills for later on in life. Taking care of their dog will show your child what it’s like to look after another living being, which will add to their ability to parent if and when they choose to do so. This will include ensuring that their dog is well, feeding them, giving them healthy treats like CBD for dogs, and making sure that they are exercised.

Grooming a dog can boost motor skills, which is another important skill. Kids can even improve their reading by reading aloud to their pet; a dog won’t interrupt or criticize, so the child will have more confidence to attempt even harder words. Dogs are also great when it comes to learning how to socialize. Going out to the dog park and mingling with other dog owners will increase your child’s confidence in social situations.

Welcoming a dog into your home is special for the entire family. And, as always, adopt don’t shop when you are giving a pup a furever home!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Shake The Holiday Time Stress – Plan Ahead!

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Shake The Holiday Time Stress – Plan Ahead!

Hi! While the holiday season can be the most wonderful time of the year, it can also be the most stressful. All you have to do is visit a store in October to know that the countdown to the holidays are fast approaching because Christmas decorations have taken over. Some people may thrive on leaving holiday preparations to the last minute and that is okay! But it is so not me and if that doesn’t work for you, either, try the tips below to sail smoothly into the holiday season:

Start Shopping Now:

One of the best ways to shake the holiday stress is, of course, starting your shopping early. In fact, I know some people who start shopping for the next Christmas with the end of season sales in January! You don’t need to be this extreme but shopping a few months in advance is a must. This will eliminate any anxiety about if your packages will arrive before your celebrated holiday. It also provides for extra time to return damaged or not as good as you thought presents.

Shopping in advance doesn’t just ensure that all of your prezzies will get to their designated giftee in a timely manner – it is better on your wallet too. Breaking up your buying between several months will also get rid of the stress of a huge credit card bill come January first!

Sort Out The Spread:

Maybe your holiday stress stems from having to prepare a big meal for the family and your guests. Although you can’t buy your food way in advance, there are some things that you can do now. How about sending invites to your holiday dinner that people have to RSVP to? Don’t forget to ask about any allergies! This way, you will know who all will be in attendance so you don’t end up cooking way too much or too little.

Once you have a firm idea of who is joining your holiday dinner and their food preferences, you can plan out your spread accordingly. It might not hurt to have some back up recipes in place just in case you can’t get your hands on a ham or turkey at the grocery store.

Know When To Excuse Yourself:

If you have a strained relationship with a family member or guest at your Christmas gathering, this can be a HUGE stressor. Develop a plan now for what you can do to protect your mental health if this is the case for you and practice it. This could be sticking with the cool cousins for the gathering, arriving after a triggering person has left, or simply knowing when to step away to compose yourself. You have every right to an enjoyable time and having a plan thought out prior to the big day will add a sense of security since you won’t have to wing responses or reactions on the spot.

The holiday season is a joyous time but can it be stressful? Big time. Plan ahead now to eliminate the mad dash feel. Then, when everything is in place: Sit back and relax – you have earned it! ❤

What are your holiday season stressors? How do you prepare for a family gathering? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

5 Tips For Creating The Perfect Jack-O-Lantern

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5 Tips For Creating The Perfect Jack-O-Lantern

Before we visit a pumpkin patch or farm, we might want to brush up on our pumpkin decorating skills. A well decorated front yard for Halloween is a joy for children and adults alike so why not go all out? If you are looking for an activity that extends beyond choosing a pumpkin and decorating it, which will happen too, then click here. Let’s get started:

Select the Right Pumpkin:

A thorough inspection of the pumpkin should include checking for soft spots. This is to make sure that you do not end up choosing a pumpkin that has already begun to spoil. Also avoid pumpkins with deep ridges and go for a smooth-surfaced one. At pumpkin farms, there will be plenty of choices as opposed to you trying to pick the best among limited options within a grocery store, when customers have already bought the best ones.

The design that you have in mind should also dictate the pumpkin that you choose. In other words, do you need a short and round pumpkin or one that is skinnier and taller in terms of its shape? Know in advance what you are looking for.

Prepare Your Design Before Applying to the Pumpkin:

Draw out your design and then use tracing paper to transfer it onto the pumpkin. This can be a design that you have approved yourself or that has been checked with someone else first. However, it is nice to surprise people by not showing them your design until it is carved on your finished pumpkin.

With your design, think beyond just a traditional triangular face and consider creating other Halloween symbols such as bats, stars, or moons. More adventurous still, you could attempt a graveyard scene or a spooky forest. If designing your pumpkin further down the line, perhaps at Thanksgiving in November, then think about alternative creations of say puppies, cats, or rabbits. Children tend to prefer animals because of their familiarity and the cute factor.

Know How to Hold Your Pumpkin:

It is a good idea to hold the pumpkin in your lap as you are carving it. This is the most supportive and safest way to carve a pumpkin. Have the right equipment of a serrated kitchen knife for the main carving and a small saw for the more intricate parts of the design.

Consider Shaving:

We are not talking shaving your legs or facial hair, but the alternative of not cutting right through the pumpkin with every stroke. Instead, sometimes deciding to just scrape pieces of pumpkin away to allow just enough light to glow through your open-design creations. It is always important to be patient when creating any pumpkin design. The best designs have taken much thought and a good deal of carving, and your other technique of shaving should make for a design that is more dynamic than it might otherwise have been.

Incorporating Scraps Within the Design:

Do not waste anything because you can incorporate your scraps or discarded pieces of pumpkin within your design. The ones that you do not intend to cook, that is. For example, you could make hair, a tongue, a pipe, or a chimney from these spare pieces. This will make your pumpkin into more of a character with a personality, a more sophisticated structure, or make it more three dimensional in form. You can be as artistic as you like, creating something for your pumpkin that merely started as a basic idea on paper. Think as creatively about your scraps as you do about the main part of your creation.

Turn your ordinary pumpkin into something extraordinary with the tips above and you will delight your whole neighborhood with your creation!

Vacation Souvenirs

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Vacation Souvenirs

Hello!! My family vacation in the Poconos was the absolute best and I am definitely ready for another one lol. It is so hard to go back to work after all of the fun, family time, amazing food, and relaxation! No vacation is complete without plenty of souvenirs and Johnny and I got several to enjoy in our kitchen and on our knick knack shelf. Check it out:

The favorite vacation purchase for me and Johnny is, easily, our Frankenstein and Skeleton Man plushies from the small store at Heckman Orchards. They are SO cute and we love snuggling up with them while we watch ten episodes of Criminal Minds in a row. 😀

The earrings (Which I’m obsessed with!) and the Grow Your Own Bigfoot were bought at a couple of shops in Jim Thorpe. The rest of our souvenirs came from Country Junction, which is the world’s largest general store. And, let me tell you, if you are ever in the area you just have to check it out.

Country Junction was a mishmash of a billion different things and it was like being in a carnival fun house. The actual general store was HUGE and it was the size of at least three Walmarts all put together. There was a section for everything from children’s toys to grilling supplies, pet care, and old fashioned candy. In almost every corner, there were gigantic statues that could move and talk including scenes from the Wizard Of Oz and a Jurassic Park-esque velociraptor. Oh, and did I mention that there was a full arcade with bumper cars too?! 😮

The madness wasn’t limited to the inside, no siree bob. Outdoors, there was a petting zoo, hay rides, playgrounds, and a small carnival complete with old school rides, fun houses, and food vendors. It was absolutely nuts lol. I so wish that I took pictures of this madness but the weather was rainy and Johnny and I were carrying all of our shopping bags by the time we caught up with the rest of the family.

Our purchases were pretty heavy because we bought a ton! I did some early Christmas shopping, got prezzies for my niece, nephew, and sister, as well as lots of treats for me and Johnny. I am particularly fond of the items that I bought by Our Own Candle Company. The Hot Chocolate candle smells delicious and I can’t wait to use the bar soap – the Peach scent is to die for!

If you have the time, definitely check out Country Junction online because you will be just as blown away/dumbfounded as I think everyone is that steps foot on the property!

Do you have anything like Country Junction in your area? What is your favorite one stop shop? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

All Aboard!

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All Aboard!

Hi! During our family vacation to the Poconos, we took a charming ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. The ride was a perfect length at forty-five minutes and we got to see some amazing sights including an old train tunnel carved into a mountain, the beautiful changing leaves, and a waterfall. We all enjoyed ourselves so much! Check it out:

Our experience on the train ride was wonderful and we almost had an entire cart just for us which was awesome. There was also a super cool employee on our cart who filled us in on all kinds of fun facts about everything we were seeing. She also let Johnny and I know about the paranormal activity that takes place in the area which we were extremely interested in.

The train ride was a perfect excuse to break out my new Stella Luce snake print jacket because it was a bit chilly out. Wherever we go, Johnny and I love getting all dolled up and strutting our stuff and the train trip was no exception. All aboard the fashion express – CHOO CHOO! 😀

What is your preferred form of transportation? What is fall like 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

Sticker Surprise

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Sticker Surprise

Hi! This past Friday at work, I was having some coffee and thought that I had spilled some on my hoodie. Yes, it’s finally hoodie weather in Ohio and I am LOVING it!! When I looked down, I noticed what I thought was coffee but, to my surprise, it ended up being a sticker that my lil niece had stuck on there back in the springtime:

I couldn’t believe that this tiny butterfly (Her favorite!) sticker had stayed on for that long because it was barely hanging on by the time I noticed it. The sticker withstood me putting it on and running out into the cold and windy morning to my car. I am so glad that it did because this Sticker Surprise was just what I needed after a super long week at work.

I have been insanely busy on the ol’ blog and I had been getting up at 5:45 every morning last week to get things done before going to my other job. By the time Friday rolled around, I was completely exhausted! Looking down and seeing a sticker from my niece on my hoodie turned a normal day into something special. Despite being drop dead tired and all, I had a great day because I had the best pick me up in the morning.

Feeling down or worn out? Always look for your own personal butterflies to help turn things around! It’s the little things, right? ❤

What makes you smile? When do you normally get up for work? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Repairs That Can’t Wait

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Repairs That Can’t Wait

While some repairs around your home can be done with a bit of DIY, there are some things that you just have to call in the professionals for. No one likes an unexpected bill for something breaking down. However, leaving it to get worse will end up costing you more money in the long run with more extensive repairs or having to buy a new appliance altogether. Today, we are going to look at a few key elements of your home that shouldn’t wait until the last minute if they are on the fritz:

Kitchen Appliances:

The purpose of appliances are to make tasks and chores easier for you. Handwashing dishes is a drag and going to the laundromat can be downright miserable! To keep yourself on easy street, it is crucial to fix problematic appliances as soon as issues arise. An improperly working stove for instance can be dangerous to yourself and your family. It’s therefore important to call in an Appliance Repair specialist as soon as possible because continued use can cause an even bigger, more expensive issue.

Meanwhile, a refrigerator that is going kaput will force you to throw away its contents as the food will not be safe to eat if its not kept cold. When appliances malfunction, it is best to find a repair person to do it all to save you the hassle from multiple different people coming in and out. For example, you can find quality fridge repair in Barrie that also specializes in washers, dryers, and ovens.

Car Troubles:

Bad breaks and bald tires are incredibly dangerous and even more so when there is inclement weather. Getting your car troubles fixed now will better protect you and your passengers, especially with winter fast approaching. Driving is one of the most risky things that people do every day so you want to make sure that your vehicle is always in prime working order. Getting new tires for the winter is a must and don’t forget your routine maintenance checks and oil changes.

When it comes to getting new tires, you will want to take your car to a shop that specializes in this specifically like Melksham Tyre Supplies (or a similar business in your local area). That way you can ensure that you are getting the best quality work for the task at hand. Tire specific shops might also run special promotions like a discounted tire rotation for every five thousand miles or free puncture repairs and this can help save money. Do your research to find the best service and deals near you.

Failing to tend to car repairs when needed can be a danger to yourself and others on the road and it should be taken seriously. If it’s recommend during your maintenance check to get a Steering Column Sensor Repair, an alignment, or new breaks, do so ASAP. And, if it doesn’t fit in your budget, you might be able to work out a payment plan with the repair shop.

Home Security:

When it comes to home security, it doesn’t just mean your security system. It also includes your windows, doors, and garage door. Any point of entrance for someone uninvited to come into your home should be checked on frequently. Schedule regular maintenance for your home security system and automatic lighting if you have them and call in a repair person immediately to change locks for windows and doors. Cracks, weak locks, and warping create a “welcome” sign for burglars as well as pests.

Keep you and your loved ones safe by tending to problems as soon as they arise. Although repairs can be expensive, peace of mind is priceless.

Toy Tips For Your Dog   

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Toy Tips For Your Dog   

A new toy for your dog can be exciting because of all the fun ways they interact with it. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for getting your dog what he needs out of life, but there are some general guidelines you can follow if you’re unsure where to start with choosing the right toys for him. Some examples might include rubber balls or rope tug-of-war games like Runball, which are heavy-duty enough to withstand serious chewing without tearing. Here are some tips on what types of toys you should get for your furry friend:

Don’t Buy Cheap:

Don’t buy any cheap non-breathable rubber toys when buying something for your canine pal. These products often contain chemicals such as lead which could cause serious harm if ingested by our pets. It isn’t worth risking everything, so save yourself some money and buy a nice toy that will last.

Measure Up:

If you are buying a new toy for your dog to play with, then consider their size. A small breed of dogs should not be given large toys because they could potentially choke on them. While the larger breeds may need medium-sized toys that will still provide fun but won’t swallow entirely, so it is important to take this into consideration before making any purchases.

Compatibility:

Dogs are naturally inclined to want to chew. They love it, so toys that encourage this behavior can be a great way of giving your dog an appropriate outlet for his chewing instincts. But not all dogs have the same interests when it comes to playtime. Some will tear through another toy in seconds, while others prefer more interactive activities with their owners or other pets.

Plush Toys:

Another option would be a durable plush toy. Ones that can stand up to your dog’s chewing for a few weeks, at least. Plush toys make excellent toys for younger dogs that have been separated from their mothers. In the early days, your pup might also need toilet training, so in the short term, definitely consider a scooping service from scooptroop.com. 

Balls:

For any game involving fetching or throwing, balls provide lots of entertainment value. Dogs love chasing after them too! There are many different kinds available. Like tennis balls, squeaky balls, and even glow-in-the-dark balls if you want something extra special for nighttime playtime.

Give A Variety:

Give at least three different specific toy choices for the dog to play with. This helps them get used to new things and it also makes the experience more fun because they won’t know what’s coming up next. Ensure you know which size toys are appropriate and how much supervision is needed when your dog is playing with them.

^^^ Image by Mat Coulton from Pixabay

Dogs will love any treat you give them, even if it isn’t edible. They just want something they can enjoy playing around with. But, of course, every pup is unique, so don’t expect them all to go crazy over the same toys. As long as you provide them with a good, durable toy that fits their personality or play style, then they’ll have hours of fun playing around and being rewarded for it.

Featured Image By: Katrin B. from Pixabay

How To Prepare For A New Puppy

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How To Prepare For A New Puppy

Adding a new addition to the family is an exciting time. A new puppy is bound to please the children as well as bring joy to the adult’s life. However, it can also be a lot more time and energy-consuming for adults. Although young children can care for and play with the new pup, it will likely not be their responsibility to take them for long walks, train them not to chew the sofa, and feed them at the right hours. If you are new to having a puppy and want some guidance, here are some tips.

Make sure their breeder is reputable:

If you are not rescuing your pup, then making sure that he or she comes from a reputable breeder is key. You will want to make sure that the puppy has had a caring and secure upbringing until they come into your home. Also, having a pup from a reputable breeder will ensure that they are free of illnesses and are as happy as can be. No matter if you are looking for a reputable Havanese breeder or Dachshund, you can find out more online as well as discover the story behind their owners while you do your research.

Prepare your home:

Before your new pup enters the home, you will want to set up a dedicated sleep and eat area so that they can settle in as soon as possible. Your dog might have had a long journey and need some food when they arrive. Thus, if you have somewhere ready for them, then they can eat and feel at home quickly. An area that is secure and warm is the best. You will want them to feel safe when they first arrive at your home and it will help them settle in.

Get their vaccines:

When a pup is young, they will need vaccines before they head out into the world. No matter if you plan to explore with your dog or go hiking with your dog, they will need to be protected from germs and disease. You will be able to attain these vaccines at any vet to help best protect your pup.

Consider puppy gates:

Puppies have a tendency to roam around a new home and explore. It is within their nature to be playful and this may result in them chewing through your favorite shoes and clothes. Putting up puppy gates will help limit them to certain areas. Gates are a great way of training the pup about where they should and should not go in the house. It will also keep them safe and away from any dangerous rooms or objects.

Likewise, you should make sure that your gates and fences are secure in the garden. Your pup will love to play in the yard and if you leave them alone for five minutes and the fence isn’t secure, you could put your puppy’s safety at risk.

Follow the tips above to keep the new addition to your family protected and happy!

Featured Image By: Karen Warfel from Pixabay

Thinking About Baby Names? Think About These Tips!

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Thinking About Baby Names? Think About These Tips!

Names are important, but what do they mean? Choosing a name for your child may seem like one of the most challenging parts of being pregnant (aside from labor, of course). Choosing a name for your baby should be based on what is important to you. Are you looking for something unique, traditional, or somewhere in between? Although we can’t choose a baby’s name for you, you could choose to use a name generator, pull your favorites from a hat, or choose a family name. You may also want to follow some of these tips:

What Potential Does The Name Have For Growth?

Even though you’re naming a baby, it’s important that the name you choose can grow with him or her beyond infancy. You may think your baby name is really cute…but can you imagine it on an adult? Practice saying it aloud and if it feels any way other than perfect, you might want to reconsider.

What Is The Popularity Of The Name?

If you hear someone call out your name in a crowd, have you ever realized they aren’t actually speaking to you? Choose a name that is popular for your little one and you may experience this problem. There are numerous ways to find out what names are popular, so do not worry! One last thought, popular names are usually loved by their owners!

Would You Like A Unique Name?

Some parents may choose a completely unique name for their baby in order to avoid popularity altogether! When it comes to this approach, it might be best to try it out first. If you go to a coffee shop, tell the barista the name you want. Do they sound like they are calling it out when they do so? Were they wrong about the pronunciation? The spelling was correct? Finding out if your child might experience difficulties with a name that sounds “too different” in later life is easy to discover. You shouldn’t feel ashamed of being original, though!

Are You Interested In Honoring A Family Member?

Pass on the name of an influential family member as a wonderful way to honor them! As a child, did you have a favorite grandparent? Your baby could be named after her in honor of her legacy. You can also use a family name as inspiration.

Do You And Your Partner Agree?

Finding a name that you both like isn’t easy – much less one that your partner also loves! When it comes to naming, it’s important to be on the same page. You might consider this compromise if you are having trouble making up your mind: One parent names the first baby, then the other names the second. Or one names the first, and the other names the middle.

Think creatively and a bit logically too and you will figure out the perfect name for your little one!

Featured Image By: Tatiana Syrikova from Pexels