Tag Archives: family

Weekend Help Wanted!

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Weekend Help Wanted!

Hiii! Starting on Friday, I will be enjoying a long weekend visiting my brother and his wife in Atlanta, Georgia. I have been so busy for the past couple of months making up for lost time at work post surgery and now preparing for my move, so a little trip will be just what I need before my move in date the following weekend. While I am away, I would be happy to feature some guest bloggers on my page. So, if you have a post that you are particularly proud of or would like to create something new, please shoot me an email at: sarah.mush6794@gmail.com! THANKS! ❤

Happy Birthday, Sister!!

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Happy Birthday, Sister!!

Hello! Today is a very special day, because it is my big sister’s birthday! Kristen is my best friend and has granted me the gift of having two other besties – her boyfriend, Ramon, and my darling niece, Valerie. Together, we create a foursome of awesomeness and I couldn’t ask for a better group of people to be surrounded by.

Kristen’s little girl is one month and one day old and it has been the most amazing thing seeing Kristen blossom into a mommy. I am so incredibly proud of her and I brag about her every chance that I can get. How can you not when you share DNA with a lady like that?! I love you so much, Kristen, and I can’t wait to celebrate with you!

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Happy Birthday, Kristen!! ❤

Happy Birthday, Dad!!

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Happy Birthday, Dad!!

Hello, everyone! Today is a fantastic, wonderful, special day because it is my dad’s birthday! I am lucky enough to say that my dad is one of my literal favorite people on the planet. He is a loving father, devoted husband, friggen hilarious, and is a man of many talents. From tending his beautiful garden to planning amazing family vacations, everything that my dad does, he does to picture perfection. I so appreciate this, because it has truly taught me the importance of a job well done throughout the years.

I cherish all of the time that I get to spend with my dad. Even just watching an episode of Seinfeld or sharing a meal together makes me happy and I am so going to miss seeing him every day once I move. CHARLES is the best dad in the world and is now the best grandpa in the world to my little niece, Valerie. I love you so much and I hope you have a great birthday even though you hate birthdays!

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Happy Birthday, Dad!!! ❤

Preparing For Dog Life: Are You Ready To Be An Owner?

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Preparing For Dog Life: Are You Ready To Be An Owner?

Whilst you might be prepared for ‘dog life’ on an emotional level, there’s a logistical side to preparing for life as a dog owner, too. They say a dog isn’t just for Christmas, but plenty of dogs end up in rescue homes because their owners weren’t actually prepared to look after a puppy. If you want to make sure that you’re ready to be an owner, then here are some pointers to help you prepare for dog life. This should help you to ensure you’re well-versed in terms of your duties:

Research your breed of dog:

It’s vital to do this before buying a dog. You need to know everything about the specific breed of the pup you’re getting because every breed is different. Different canines have different nutritional needs and require different levels of exercise. There might also be different requirements from dog to dog in terms of the training or medical treatment needed. It can all come down to the individual situation of a particular dog, so you really have to get to know a specific dog before welcoming them into your home. Dogs from rescue shelters might have more traumatic backgrounds, for instance.

Make sure you talk to the seller and a vet so that you know everything possible about a particular dog before you adopt it. You need to make sure you get the right kind of food for them in terms of their size and other requirements they might have as a result of their breed. You need to take the age and history of the dog into account, too. Make sure you train them as soon as they enter your home because you need to make sure they don’t form bad habits. Essentially, the first preparation is to prepare yourself for the responsibility of dog ownership.

Stock up on supplies:

The next step is to stock up on supplies. Much like humans, dogs have plenty of needs. They’re not wild creatures. They’re domesticated and enjoy the same comforts as we do. They need a comfy bed for support whilst they sleep so that they can stay physically and mentally healthy. They need chew toys so they have something fun to use when they’re playing in the house. You might also want to check out waterproof quick release dog collars. It’s important to have a durable collar for your puppy. You also need to puppy-proof your house. Dogs aren’t used to human surroundings when they’re first introduced to them, so it’s crucial that you move dangerous things out of reach (much as you would with a baby).

Make sure you have enough time for them:

Finally, you need to be emotionally available for your dog. We’re talking about more than finding dogs cute; we’re talking about you actually having the time for your puppy. Make sure you, your partner, or other family members are in the house a lot of the time. Dogs get lonely, and they shouldn’t be left to their own devices for too long from a safety standpoint, either. They are family, so treat them as such. ❤

Featured Image By: Free Images

Lil Red’s Adventures In Microblading: My Touch Up Appointment

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Lil Red’s Adventures In Microblading: My Touch Up Appointment

Helloooo! At the end of February, I took a trip to Pittsburgh to hang out with my fabulous cousin, Laura. She is seriously the coolest person on the planet and she is an absolute microblading genius. Laura microbladed my eyebrows in October and I was finally able to go see her after a few months apart compliments of my surgery. During my visit, Laura touched up my eyebrows and gave me some adorable bling for my teeth. Check it out:

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Laura is the owner of La Marie Brow Club in Lawrenceville, PA and is an esteemed makeup artist. I’m not going to lie, I was ambivalent at first to get microbladed, but I knew that I would be in the best hands with her and was obsessed after my initial appointment. A touch up was definitely needed, though, and I was so happy to finally get it done!

Similar to a touch up session for a tattoo, Laura went over the hair strokes on my eyebrows that might not have taken as well. She also used a darker pigment because I wanted a more bold look after dipping my toes in the water the first time. The nice thing about being microbladed, is that Laura numbs the area before she gets to work, but it did hurt a little more this time around than the first. However, I am also super comfortable with her which, in her words, makes me “squirmier than the average bear”. Lololol.

I am so in love with how my brows look after the touch up session. My first time being microbladed in October really set the ground work for what my brows look like now. And, during the touch up, it all comes together to create a bold but still natural looking brow, which was important to me. Laura listened to what I wanted and executed it perfectly. I feel like these are the eyebrows that I should have had my whole life and never having to apply brow makeup is the best thing ever.

Laura created eyebrows that were just for me and her studio was a safe, clean, and welcoming environment. She also explains the aftercare instructions thoroughly and provides you with her custom made Brow Love to apply after you’ve been microbladed. And, the fun didn’t stop there, because after my touch up, she put my tooth gems on for me which are the cutest. 😀

La Marie Brow Club also offers upper lash line enhancement, freckles, beauty marks, and lip blush for all of your permanent makeup needs. I cannot recommend their services enough so, if you’re in the area, schedule an appointment ASAP!

Would you ever get microbladed? How about any other forms of permanent makeup? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

How Do You Connect With Your Parents?

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How Do You Connect With Your Parents?

When you’re a child, your parents are the center of your world. It’s difficult to imagine that you could one day not need to have them around anymore. However, as you grow older, your relationship evolves. You are not an inexperienced child anymore. You’re an adult. And with the realization that you can do everything you want by yourself comes another one: You don’t need your parents anymore. You can be sure that they are aware of it. As a result, a lot of adults struggle to maintain a sane and happy relationship with their parents. If this is something that you are having a hard time with, then try utilizing the tips below:

#1. Twin your hobbies

Hobbies are a great way to bond, so why not find something you both enjoy? Gardening is a great activity that you can both share without needing to be in the same place. You can discuss your plans for your respective gardens and exchange tips and tools. You could even share flowers by giving each other cuts from your favorite plants. If you don’t have a garden or don’t have the time or energy to manage your lawn and bushes, you can opt for a more relaxing approach. A zen garden is not only a tasteful addition to your interior decor, but it’s also a playful, meditative tool. You could compare designs and patterns, or even create a joint album on Facebook where you can both upload photos of your creations.

#2. Try something new together

New experiences are enriching. Your parents have watched you grow up, walk, and discover the world from the start. Reconnect with those feeling by choosing to try something new together. For instance, if you’ve never tried golf, you can take lessons together and rejoice in being the witness of each other’s discovery journey. You can find all of the equipment you need at a lower cost online – rock bottom golf is an excellent address for amateur golfers. If sports aren’t your thing, how about booking an escape room experience together? There’s nothing more rewarding than working together to beat the clock!

#3. You’re never too old to play games

Do you remember board game nights at home? Everyone has played Monopoly with their parents during the holiday. And, despite all of the frustrations that come with the game, it was fun to share a moment. When you play games, you connect at a deeper level. It goes beyond your age, life experience, or even social responsibilities. You are players all equal in the context of the game. If board games aren’t your cup of tea, video games are a fantastic choice. Over a quarter of gamers are 50+, meaning that age has never made any major difference. All you need is a gaming console that attaches to the TV, and you’re both ready to interact in the virtual world. With online platforms, you don’t even need to be in the same room!

#4. Booking a holiday together

If the idea of going on holiday with your parents is terrifying, you might want to give it a second thought. Most people find it challenging to survive a shared vacation. But you need to think beyond your family bond. The reason why most cross-generational holidays fail is that people revert to previous behavior patterns, namely your parents trying to care for you in the way they’re always used to and you, instinctively, react in the passive-aggressive way that you used to as a teenager. As a result, tensions occur. But, you can avoid this trap by treating your parents as friends, AKA equals. If you don’t give them the upper hand in the relationship, there is no reason for conflicts anymore.

#5. Plan regular catch-ups

Many adults complain that their parents are out of touch with their lives. Be honest, can you blame them? Do you give them the opportunity to know what is going on in your life? If you don’t organize regular catch-up dinners and casual meetings, they can never get to understand your hopes, passions, and struggles. Unless you share about yourself, people can’t stay updated about your journey.

#6. Group chat for everyone!

No time for a catch-up meal? Make the most of modern tools and create a group chat that keeps everyone in the loop. Family group chats can be frustrating at times. But, they’re the perfect tool to share little moments of your every day life, discuss big decisions, or merely check on how everyone is doing. By making your interactions more casual, you design a new relationship with your parents.

Adulthood can create distance between you and your parents. It’s never easy to change the base of a relationship. But, as you grow up and become independent, the foundation of your relationship naturally evolves. Don’t let it damage your bond. On the contrary, find new ways to get to know each other again.

Featured Image By: Flickr

Happy Birthday, Mom!!

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Happy Birthday, Mom!!

Hello! Today is a very special, wonderful day because it is my mom’s birthday! Although my mom may look sweet, petite, and absolutely adorable (Which she is!) – she’s a total badass. Seriously. She beat cancer’s ass, she’s a doctor, and she still somehow manages to make time for everyone and every dog she encounters. In other words, she’s my hero. An inspiration to anyone she meets, myself especially, my mom really is the greatest. And, now, she is the greatest grandma, as well, to her granddaughter and my niece, Valerie.

In every adventure and obstacle that life sends my mom’s way, she handles it with the poise of a queen and comes out on top every time. I love you, mom, and I thank you for all that you have done to shape and inspire me into the *semi* badass that I am today!

Happy Birthday!! ❤

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Colt Johnson Shout Out

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Colt Johnson Shout Out

Hi!! One of my Sunday evening traditions with my favorite cousin, Laura, who lives in Pittsburgh is watching 90 Day Fiance together. We love to watch the new episode and text the entire time, discussing the latest drama and making witty comments. If you watched the newest season on TLC, then you will know all about the craziness that was Colt, Larissa, and DEBBIE. Colt and Larissa were the couple that we all loved to hate and they provided Laura and I with endless hours of quality entertainment.

So, imagine my surprise when Laura emailed me a video of Colt, himself, talking directly to me! Lol, during Laura’s free time, she found a website where you can hire celebrities to make videos for you. She found Colt on the site and she couldn’t pass up the opportunity to get him to congratulate me on my status as a new aunt. Check this shit out:

Guys… I really just can’t. As soon as Colt started saying my name I immediately texted Laura with “wtf is happening?” Lol and when I realized that he was talking to me the hysterical freaking out began. I laughed so hard I almost cried and I just had to share this beautiful shout out with all of you. Even if you don’t watch 90 Day Fiance, there is no denying the hilarity of this video and I cannot wait to return the favor to Laura with her own special hello from Coltee. 😀

Who else is a 90 Day Fiance fan? Which couple do you love to hate on that show? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Featured Image By: Casino

How To Set Up A Welcoming Guest Room

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How To Set Up A Welcoming Guest Room

If you have guests staying with you, then you want to make them feel both welcomed and comfortable during their visit. In a previous article, https://lifewithlilred.com/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-guests/, we provided you with some general tips on preparing your home for your guests but, in this post, we are going to go into greater detail on the guest room itself:

#1: Provide essential furniture

You don’t want your guests sleeping on a mattress on the floor or living from their suitcase. In terms of feeling welcomed, that isn’t very welcoming at all! You need to provide those pieces of furniture that should be considered essential. We are, of course, talking about a comfortable bed, a dresser for their clothes, and a mirror, so they can beautify themselves in the morning before joining you for breakfast. You can buy all of this and many more essential pieces of furniture at discounted rates at https://shopdiscountdirect.com/shop/bedrooms; perfect for you if you’re on a budget! Alternatively, shop around online or on the high street but, for the sake of your guests, do try to get the best that your money can buy.

#2: Clear the room

If your guests are staying for an extended period, you should clear the room of any clutter or personal possessions pertaining to you. Clear table spaces for their personal items and ensure that there is enough floor space for their bags, etc. When it comes to the guest room, less is more, so don’t over stuff it with things you think they might like. Stick to the basics, such as a clock, calendar, and the furniture we mentioned, and let your guests have the room to make it just how they like during their stay.

As you clear the guest room of any personal clutter, you might find that these items are cluttering the rest of the house! Fear not and and consider smart storage furniture in the guest room as you remodel it. Furnishings from millie and jones, for example, often feature storage options built directly into their bed frames. You will be able to tuck your own mementos away and prevent it from overflowing into other spaces in your house.

#3: Focus on comfort

Okay, so you have bought them a bed, but don’t forget to buy a comfortable mattress, too. And remember to buy quality bed linen, pillows, mattress toppers, and extra blankets to add to their comfort level. If they are staying for a while, you should also have extra bed sheets and pillowcases available, with the option of room service if you are happy to change their bedding for them! Aside from the bed, consider putting an extra armchair or a small sofa in there, as well. Alongside a table and a lamp, they will then have somewhere to relax in the room, without having to sit on the bed when they are in the need for some alone time.

#4: Provide a home away from home experience

You might need space away from your guests at certain times of the day and, with no offense to you, they might need personal time with their own company too! Therefore, give your guests a room that is worth living in. A miniature refrigerator stocked with drinks and snacks will satisfy them should they need refreshments. You might include tea and coffee facilities too, as well as a bowl of fruit, cookies, and other snacking items.

Then, think about giving your guest something to do in the room. Perhaps a magazine rack stocked with the latest editions or a bookshelf with both fiction and non-fiction. You could also add a television and DVD player with films and box sets to go with them. Finally, a desk and chair which will be useful if your guests are bringing their computers with them to do some work during their stay.

After putting some effort into creating a welcoming guest room, your guests will want to return to you again and again. Unless, of course, you are trying to deter anybody from staying with you. In which case, do as we told you not to, and give them that mattress on the floor of your cluttered room! Of course, we’re sure you’re not that unkind!

Featured Image By: Pxhere

BTW: I’M AN AUNT!!!!!

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BTW: I’M AN AUNT!!!!!

Hello!!!! As you might have inferred from the vague title of this post… I’M AN AUNT!!! My precious niece, Valerie Jane, was born on March 7th weighing five pounds and five ounces. My sister, Kristen, and her boyfriend, Ramon, are so happy to welcome their little girl whose namesake is derived from both of their beautiful mothers. I am the proudest TT on the planet and I am so obsessed with Valerie I just can’t stand it. Did I mention she’s cute? Cause she’s so freaking cute. The proof is in the pictures:

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Le sigh… she’s so perfect. The cutest button nose, her full head of black hair (Just like her mom had when she was born!), and the most darling little baby sneezes you’ve ever heard, I just can’t get enough of my niece. Every time I see her, I fall more in love and whenever I’m not with her, I am thinking about when I can hold her again. I am so honored to be an aunt to the tiniest princess and can’t wait to watch her continue to blossom every day. TT Sarah loves you, sweet Valerie!

Who else is a member of the cool aunt or uncle club? How about a member of the new parent club? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah