Tag Archives: improve

Aug27

How To Feel More Confident In Your Skin

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How To Feel More Confident In Your Skin

More often than not, most of us will feel insecure. It may not be intense insecurity, and it may not severely impact our daily lives, but we can feel it all the same. It might be not feeling that confident in our jobs or worrying about how we look when we’re out with friends. As much as it can be frustrating, it’s quite common. But that doesn’t mean that you have to accept it as normal and live that way forever. In fact, you can look to do something about it as soon as possible!

It’s easy to think that some people are confident and others aren’t, but that’s not strictly true. Confidence isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something that’s built. If you’d love to be able to feel more confident in your skin and say goodbye to your insecurities, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’re going to take a look at the best ways for you to feel more confident in who you are:

Practice Positive Self-Talk:

First of all, you may want to change the way you talk to yourself. If you’re used to being tough on yourself and beating yourself up in the way you think and speak about yourself, it’s going to really lower your confidence. When you’re more positive, it can help you to feel a lot more confident and happier in yourself.

Prioritize Self-Care:

It can also help to look after yourself a little better. It’s easy to think that self-care is just pampering and caring too much about your appearance, but it’s far from that. It can be relaxing, helping your mental health, and boosting your mood as well as your confidence. You may find that starting a self-care routine drastically changes how you feel.

Focus on Feeling Good:

You should also be proactive about feeling good in yourself. Buying new bras, taking yourself for a walk, or even having a little solo date night could help you to feel recharged and boost your mood. Treat yourself to something nice, grab a coffee from your favorite cafe, or simply take a pause when you feel like you could use a pick me up. When you find what works to boost your mood, you can keep turning back to it as often as you need.

Dress for Confidence:

You can also look to what you wear for a lot more confidence. You may find that if you’re wearing things that don’t make you feel good, getting excited about what you wear can change everything. Take yourself out shopping or order some options online. Once you find some pieces you love, you may feel a lot more confident in your skin. When you dress with clothes that fit well and enhance your best features, you are going to love what you see when you look in the mirror.

Embrace yourself, your quirks, and what makes you you. Doing so will always make you feel so much happier and confident in who you are!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Aug26

Friendly Reminder!!

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Friendly Reminder!!

Hello!! After leaving an incredibly shitty work experience in March, I most definitely needed a bit of me time. During that Lil Red mental health retreat, I threw my hands up, said “screw it” (It was actually an expletive!) , and made a TikTok. What makes me really happy is creating content and I decided I needed more of that in my life – even if I am not the biggest fan of making videos. However, after close to five months of posting daily content on TikTok, I finally get it lol. It’s a lot of fun and I love shooting OOTDs, hiking, exploring, cooking, and any and everything videos. All of you have been onto something for a phat minute and although I am literal years late to the party, it’s better late than never! 😀

At the end of May, I was almost at one hundred followers and you have no idea how happy that made me. Fast forward to the here and now and I have around twenty five hundred and you have no idea how happy that makes me! For a page that is still relatively new, it might as well be twenty five million to me and I feel proud of that because my TikTok really is just for funsies. I don’t expect brand deals and billions of views. All I wanted was to go back to making content for me, myself, and I… And anyone who feels like watching or reading it and that is the prize in itself.

While I was in the midst of the not ideal work sitch, I was barely keeping my head above water let alone making content that I felt excellent about. And, in turn, I felt far below excellent because content creating is truly one of my forms of self care. It gives me a safe space to wear whatever I want, experiment, and simply be me. Even if my blog or TikTok got no views, it would be fine because it is mine and mine alone and I made it and had a blast doing it. My mental health has improved tenfold and it feels so SO good to be back in my zone and feeling completely like myself!

If you feel so inclined, I would absolutely love it if you joined me on my TikTok. If not, that’s okay too! I’ll see you around the blogosphere! ❤

What is your favorite form of social media? What makes you feel like yourself? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Aug25

Burn A Pancake, Not Your Focus

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Burn A Pancake, Not Your Focus

Morning in your kitchen is a whole soundtrack: The kettle sighs, a timer nags, a voice asks where the left shoe went, and someone is definitely humming Baby Shark again. You’re flipping pancakes while triaging notifications and trying to remember who needed money for lunch today. It’s a lot. And when the soundscape gets crowded, focus is the first thing to burn:

The Breakfast Rush Is a Sensory Storm:

You’re not “bad at mornings.” You’re managing a sensory pile-up. Competing sounds make it harder for your brain to sort what matters, like a quiet “Mom?” over a loud extractor fan. When your ears work too hard to catch the words, your brain borrows energy from focus. That’s how a simple recipe turns into guesswork, and why multitasking feels like walking through fog. Reduce the fog and you reclaim attention, without needing an extra hour or superhuman patience.

Focus Starts with Clear Hearing:

Here’s the sneaky truth: Aven a small drop in hearing clarity can feel like a big drop in attention. Your brain does overtime to fill gaps, predicting words, stitching context, reading lips, and that effort shows up as fatigue and distractability. You know that end-of-day “I can’t listen to one more thing” feeling? That’s cognitive load talking. When you make hearing easier, everything else gets lighter: You follow directions the first time, the joke lands, and the pan on medium actually stays on medium.

Small Sound Habits, Big Calm:

You don’t need to redesign your kitchen. Start with micro-wins:

  • Lower the loudest thing first (usually the extractor fan or TV) to lift voices out of the noise.
  • Use a visual timer for cooking so your brain isn’t babysitting beeps.
  • Create a “call corner” away from clatter; two steps to the hallway can turn chaos into clarity.
  • Ask for one-at-a-time talk during hot-pan moments. It’s not fussy; it’s safety.
  • Keep the same soundtrack for breakfast (a short playlist) so your brain isn’t decoding new noise every day.

The Tech That Frees Your Hands:

Modern hearing solutions aren’t just about volume; they’re about control. Directional microphones help you lock onto the voice right in front of you. Rechargeable cases mean you stop hunting for tiny batteries during the school run. And many models now include bluetooth connectivity so you can take a quick call from school, hear a timer or podcast clearly, or switch to a “kitchen” program, without juggling your phone while you’re juggling hot pans.

Choosing the Right Setup (Without Becoming a Tech Reviewer):

You want features that match your actual life, not a spec sheet fantasy:

  • Comfort first. If it doesn’t feel good by school pickup, you won’t wear it. Ask for soft domes or custom earmolds if you’re sensitive.
  • Programs that fit your day. A “quiet conversation,” “noisy restaurant,” and “outdoors” set will cover 90% of parenting life. Bonus points for a “speech in noise” mode that you can tap on quickly.
  • Moisture resistance. Kitchen steam. Look for devices rated to handle humidity and sweat.
  • Easy controls. A physical button or simple app beats labyrinth menus when a pancake is mid-flip.
  • Trial the real world. Bring your phone to the fitting, test calls, stream a timer, and stand near a whirring kettle. If it works there, it’ll work anywhere.

Make the Kitchen a Safe-Sound Zone:

Safety and calm are twins here. Keep alarms audible but not shrill. Put break-in points in your routine: “Flip, breathe, check” before the next step. If someone needs you mid-cook, ask them to touch your shoulder first, visual + tactile beats shouting from the hallway. And remember, kids copy what you model. When you show them how to create a quiet pocket for talking, they learn to do the same.

What to Do Next:

If your mornings feel louder than they should, get curious about hearing, not guilty. Book a hearing check, bring your daily chaos with you (figuratively), and describe the exact moments that feel hard: “I miss words over the kettle,” “I can’t hear the timer if the TV is on,” “I need to catch calls hands-free while cooking.” The right setup meets those moments on purpose.

Focus isn’t a personality trait; it’s an environment you can design. When you reduce noise, support your hearing, and choose tech that matches your life, you stop burning attention on the basics. Breakfast gets simpler. Voices get clearer. And your pancakes? Golden, not charred!

Featured Image By: Pexels

 

Aug25

Top Signs Your Health Needs Your Attention

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Top Signs Your Health Needs Your Attention

When you are constantly on with the challenges of every day life, it’s very easy to overlook the signs that our health might be slipping. Your body does, however, have a way of telling you when something is off. It’s just a matter of listening carefully. From the physical symptoms to mental fatigue, these are the early signals that are often your first line of defense from preventing more serious issues down the road. One example that is often ignored is the persistent ringing in the ears, which could be a sign of damage and may require professional tinnitus treatment. Here are the top signs that your health may need your attention:

You’re dealing with persistent fatigue that doesn’t go away: Feeling tired after a long day or a poor night’s sleep is normal, but if you’re constantly exhausted even after resting, it could signal something deeper. Chronic fatigue might be linked to poor sleep quality, nutritional deficiencies, stress, or even undiagnosed conditions like thyroid disorders or anemia. If rest doesn’t recharge you like it used to, then you need to dig a little deeper and speak to a healthcare provider.

    There are changes in your hearing: If you’re struggling to follow conversations, constantly turning up the volume, or hearing a continuous ringing or buzzing sound, your ears are trying to tell you something. That ringing, known as tinnitus, is often a symptom of underlying hearing loss or nerve damage. There are different tinnitus treatment options available, but you do need to speak to an audiologist to figure out what’s best for you. Ignoring it can lead to further deterioration and even affect your mental health over time.

    Shortness of breath or chest discomfort: If you feel breathless from minor exertion or notice tightness in your chest, it could be a sign of cardiovascular issues, respiratory conditions, or anxiety. While it may be tempting to dismiss these symptoms, they should always be taken seriously. Sudden or unexplained difficulty breathing warrants immediate medical attention, even if it doesn’t seem severe.

    Frequent digestive issues: Occasional indigestion or bloating is normal, but if you regularly experience stomach discomfort, constipation, or diarrhea then it may be worth speaking to a specialist. Poor digestion can indicate food intolerances, inflammation, or even more serious gastrointestinal conditions.

    Mental fog and mood changes: Feeling off, irritable, anxious, or struggling to focus could be your brain’s way of asking for support. Mental health is deeply connected to physical health, and issues like chronic stress, poor sleep, or nutrient deficiencies can all affect mood and cognitive functions. Don’t ignore your mental health therapy. Lifestyle changes on medication can make a difference.

      Your body will give you clues when it needs your attention and you must not ignore the signs. Investing the time in your health right now will make a big difference in preventing more serious issues tomorrow.

      Featured Image By: Pexels

      Aug6

      How To Refresh Your Self Care Routine This Season

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      How To Refresh Your Self Care Routine This Season

      It’s easy to find yourself stuck in a routine that used to work but no longer suits you. It could be the skin care products you’re using or doing the same exercises on repeat. When it comes to self care sometimes you have to go beyond your checklist to find something that truly nourishes you in the here and now. If all of this sounds familiar then it might be time for you to shake things up a bit. Here’s a look at how you can do just that:

      Start With a Seasonal Mindset Shift:

      Each season brings its own natural rhythm and this should definitely guide your wellness habits. You might find that in fall you prefer warm foods or grounding rituals while in spring you want more outdoor time and lighter meals. Even the small types of seasonal changes such as switching out a heavier moisturizer for a lighter one or switching from coffee to herbal tea can make a fresh connection with what your body really needs. The goal is always to stay in tune with what your body is telling you. You don’t want to get locked into routines that are too rigid. 

      Try Something You’ve Been Curious About:

      Refreshing your self care doesn’t always mean you add more to your routine. It could mean you just try something different. Maybe you’ve been intrigued by herbal medicines or sound baths but you haven’t taken the time to try them. Now might be the perfect time to do so. Holistic wellness centers such as Davis Integrative Medicine offer alternative therapies along with personalized treatments. You can blend modern practices with ancient ones. Leading to a more holistic approach to your wellness.

      Clear Space for What Actually Feels Good:

      Not every self-care trend is going to fit you and you have to accept that. What works for someone may not work for you and it makes no sense to force it. Take a moment to reflect on which habits make you feel more grounded. Then look at the ones you are doing simply out of obligation. You may find that letting go of a few things will open up space for a lot more creativity, joy, and rest. 

      A refresh routine should feel like something that you want to do, it shouldn’t be something that you are forced to do. When you feel obligated you are much more likely to flake and not do what you promised yourself to do. This can have an impact on your confidence. You may feel as if you can’t keep your own promises to yourself and this can be disappointing.

      Ultimately self care is all about reconnecting with who you truly are and what you need as a person. As the seasons begin to change you should give yourself permission to change as well!

      Featured Image By: Gerald Oswald from Pixabay

      Aug5

      6 Challenges Parents Might Face With Their Children

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      6 Challenges Parents Might Face With Their Children

      Parenting is one of the most challenging journeys a person can take. From the toddler tantrums to teenage independence, every start stage of a child’s life brings new obstacles. The daily balance of nurturing, teaching, guiding, and sometimes just getting through the day can feel overwhelming. When considering educational options, many parents explore structured environments like Montessori preschools in hopes of supporting their child’s development. But this isn’t the only challenge that parents face, and how to navigate those challenges with patience and perspective is not always easy:

      Managing emotional outbursts:

      Parents are managing these outbursts from the moment they bring a newborn home from the hospital, but young children are still learning how to process emotions in healthy ways. Tantrums, tears, and yelling are all part of that process, but that doesn’t make it easy to handle. Parents will often struggle with how to stay calm and supportive while setting boundaries. Understanding that outbursts are normal and rooted in emotional development can help with consistency and empathy. Along with clear routines, you can give your children a sense of security and predictability.

      Struggles with screen time:

      This is a big challenge given that we’re now living in a more digital world than ever before. Managing technology in the home is a modern parenting challenge, and while screens can be educational, along with being entertaining, too much time can affect behavior, sleep, and attention span. Parents will often feel guilty no matter which way they choose to go because too much screen time feels lazy, but too little can feel isolating. The key is to find that balance.

      Sibling rivalries:

      When more than one child is involved, sibling dynamics can bring a whole new layer of stress to parenting. Arguments, jealousy, and competition are very common, and you might find yourself playing referee more often than intended. By encouraging cooperative play and celebrating each child’s strengths, you can foster empathy between siblings and ease that tension over time.

      Sleep issues:

      Whether it’s bedtime resistance, night wakings or early rising, sleep challenges affect everyone in the family. Lack of rest can impact not only their mood and behavior, but also the parents ability to function. A calm night time routine and limiting stimulation before bed can prove to be beneficial. Ditch the tablet for a good book, put on some white noise or calming music, and encourage healthier sleep hygiene.

      Balancing discipline with connection:

      One of the hardest parts of parenting is disciplining gently with love. It’s very easy to slip into extremes such as being too strict or too permissive, especially under stress. A big part of parenting is re-parenting yourself from an early age.

      Worrying about their education and development:

      From speech delays to learning styles, parents worry if their child is on track and the pressure to make the right educational choices can feel quite heavy. Choosing the right program can offer peace of mind, but it’s all about aligning it with your child’s pace and their individual interests. If you have concerns about your child’s developmental progress, it is a wise decision to make an appointment with their GP ASAP.

      Whatever challenges you are facing, it is normal. And you are doing a much better job than you are giving yourself credit for!

      Featured Image By: Pexels

      Aug4

      The Simple Way To Clear Your Backyard

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      The Simple Way To Clear Your Backyard

      It doesn’t take long for a backyard to go from trim and tidy to overgrown anarchy. Maybe it started with a few weeds around the fence. Then the bushes doubled in size. A few fallen branches got ignored. Suddenly, it’s a whole situation. But getting it back to clean doesn’t have to be a huge, exhausting project. With the right tools and a smart approach, anyone can turn things around in one solid afternoon:

      Why Most Backyards Get Out of Control (And It’s Totally Normal):

      Backyards grow fast. Trees shoot out new branches, vines creep up fences, and weeds love popping up overnight. Throw in a few rainy weeks or a busy schedule, and nature just takes over. It’s not lazy or bad planning – it happens to everyone. The good news is, there’s a way to handle it without spending every weekend sweating in the sun. It’s all about using the right tools that do most of the work for you. Big gas-powered machines can be loud, messy, and hard to manage. But newer electric tools make the process way easier and a lot quieter.

      One of the most helpful tools for these jobs is an electric chainsaw. Whether you’re trimming thick bushes, cutting fallen limbs, or dealing with smaller trees that took over the back fence, this tool can clear large messes fast and without the noise or hassle of gas models.

      Start with the Biggest Problem:

      The best way to tackle an overgrown yard is to go for the most obvious mess first. If there are branches on the ground or a huge bush blocking the walkway, that’s the place to start. Clearing those out makes the space instantly look better, and it gives more room to move around for everything else. Cut up large pieces into smaller chunks that can be stacked, bagged, or hauled away later. Just getting those big eyesores out of the way gives a huge boost and it’s that moment when it starts to feel doable instead of overwhelming.

      What to Cut, What to Keep:

      After clearing fallen branches and thick growth, it’s time to look at what’s still standing. Trees and bushes should have space between them and the house, fence, or path. If anything is rubbing against walls or blocking light, it needs trimming. Use the chainsaw for the thicker stuff, and grab some handheld shears or trimmers for small branches and dead plants. Don’t be afraid to cut more than expected as most plants bounce back fast. The goal isn’t to get everything perfect, but just to give it shape and space again.

      Mow, Edge, and Sweep:

      Once the big mess is handled and everything’s trimmed, it’s time to focus on the ground. Overgrown yards usually mean tall grass and wild edges. Start with mowing the lawn. Even if the grass looks patchy or dry, cutting it down cleanly makes a huge difference. After mowing, edge along the sides of walkways, flower beds, or fences. That clean line makes everything look cared for, even if nothing fancy is going on. Finish up by sweeping or blowing away the leftover mess like leaves, twigs, or sawdust from the branches. This step takes the yard from “cleaned up” to “wow, that actually looks nice.”

      Dealing With the Leftovers:

      One part people forget about: where all the branches, grass, and leaves are going to go. If the city has yard waste pickup, great – pile it up for collection day. No pickup? A local green waste drop-off center can help. For anyone with a little extra space, a compost pile works too (just skip the big wood). Either way, don’t let the cleanup pile sit for weeks. Moving it out right after the job makes everything feel done!

      Keeping It from Getting Wild Again:

      Once the yard looks fresh again, staying on top of it becomes way easier. The trick is to do small jobs regularly instead of letting it get bad again. Here are a few simple ways to keep it under control:

      • Do a quick scan once a week for fallen branches or trash.
      • Trim bushes or trees when they start reaching over walkways.
      • Mow every 1–2 weeks during growing season.
      • Use electric tools that are easy to grab and use without making a mess.

      Keeping tools nearby and charged up helps a lot. When something’s easy to grab, it’s more likely to get used before the job becomes a big deal again.

      What Really Makes a Difference:

      It’s not about having a picture-perfect yard. Most people just want a space that looks neat, safe, and comfortable to hang out in. That’s totally possible without needing to be a pro or spending tons of time every weekend. The real difference comes from a few things:

      • Using tools that don’t make the job harder than it needs to be.
      • Tackling the biggest problem first instead of trying to do everything at once.
      • Cleaning up in layers – branches, then bushes, then grass.
      • Taking 15 minutes once a week to stay ahead of it.

      Whether the goal is to have space to relax, let kids play, or just stop worrying about what the neighbors think, the path to a cleaner yard doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small, use tools that help, and let progress do the rest!

      Featured Image By: Pixabay

      Jul16

      Sophisticated Upgrades To Transform Your Home

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      Sophisticated Upgrades To Transform Your Home

      Elevating your living space starts with sophistication. Home upgrades don’t simply add functionality, they should create an atmosphere full of style, comfort, and appeal. From major renovations to tweaks on smaller details, sophisticated upgrades can transform any living space. Let’s go through some of these ideas which strike a balance between practicality and luxury:

      Revamp with Bespoke Joinery:

      Nothing elevates an interior quite like custom joinery can. From built-in wardrobes to bookcases, tailored joinery adds both style and function. From minimalist designs with clean lines to intricate paneling in rich warm finishes, tailoring joinery leaves an impression of exclusivity and craftsmanship that lasts.

      Install Smart Home Technology:

      A sophisticated home is one that takes advantage of advanced technologies. Installing fully integrated systems that control lighting, heating, entertainment, and thermostats with just the touch of a button or voice command gives you convenience, security, and efficiency. Not to mention reduced energy costs. Intelligent security systems to create a space that anticipates your needs is undeniably sophisticated.

      Elevate the Lighting Design:

      Lighting can make or break the ambience of any room in a home. Avoid basic ceiling fixtures by layering lighting instead. From statement chandeliers and ambient wall sconces, to functional task lighting and dimmers for effortless mood control. LED strip lighting under cabinets or along skirting boards also adds an air of sophistication. The perfect lighting for each space in your home is a delicate dance and can be tricky to master if you don’t have experience. If you are trying to enhance your space with lighting, you could schedule a consultation with a lighting design company local to Hawaii (or your area). The pros will be able to transform your space with brilliant design and optimal lighting solutions.

      Inviting Fireplaces:

      A sophisticated fireplace is more than a source of warmth, it becomes an architectural centerpiece that enhances any space. From sleek linear designs to stone or marble mantels, fireplaces can reflect your personal style while adding value and elevate the overall home aesthetic. Incorporate built-in shelving or custom surrounds for additional functionality and visual interest. Or consider adding double-sided or suspended fireplaces for a cutting-edge touch that can unite multiple rooms seamlessly in amazing luxurious fashion.

      Marble, Velvet and Brass:

      Subtlety lies in your choice of materials. Incorporating luxurious textures and finishes such as Italian marble countertops, plush velvet upholstery, and brushed brass accents into a room will instantly give it sophistication. These high-end materials not only add visual appeal but also offer tactile indulgence for an effect that is luxurious without becoming overwhelming.

      Upgrade to Statement Flooring:

      Your floors are more than simply something you walk on. They form the basis of your home’s aesthetic. You can replace tired carpets with hardwood flooring featuring intricate herringbone patterns or large-format porcelain tiles for a sleek finish. Add warmth with natural fiber rugs crafted specifically for this purpose. With statement flooring in your home, every step becomes a luxury experience.

      Don’t Forget the Art:

      Give your walls the attention they deserve by investing in fine art or high-quality prints as a surefire way to elevate the aesthetic in your home. Choose pieces that complement the existing decor while making a bold statement. Framing and lighting will add depth and make your home an art gallery in itself. If you really want to shake up your art decor, why not opt for LED video wall solutions? These screens will create an immersive experience to completely transform your space. You could showcase scenes of nature, outer space, or a montage of classic film clips. Whatever you choose is sure to wow any guest!

      Transforming your home into a sophisticated statement doesn’t require a complete makeover, but rather taking an approach aimed at emphasizing its best features. Paying close attention to the grandiose and subtle details can make an investment not just in your space but in yourself and lifestyle too!

      Featured Image By: Wonderhunt on Unsplash

      May28

      TikTok Talk

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      TikTok Talk

      Hello!! As you all know, I am a word girl through and through. I have always preferred blogging as my main outlet which is why I was never particularly interested in incorporating video content too. However, after making a big life change, I had more free time on my hands, said “why not?”, and started my TikTok in mid March. This was not to take the place of my blog, but to enhance it with footage of OOTDs, bloopers, cooking, and whatever else strikes my fancy. After one day on the social media platform, I finally got what all the fuss is about because it is kind of fun!

      I have no delusions of becoming a TikTok star, even though it would be awesome. I’m just proud of the fact that people are actually watching my content. Even if it was just one person, I would be proud because video content isn’t in my comfort zone and I decided to go for it anyways. And, I’ve got to say, after two months I feel pretty awesome about my amount of likes and almost ONE HUNDRED followers!

      Slow and steady wins the race and even if my page’s progress isn’t astronomical, it’s there, and that’s good enough for me. And, as another old cliche goes, if you never try, you never know. While video content isn’t my forte, you don’t need to be Spielberg to create a video and post it on TikTok. Had I didn’t give it the old college try, I wouldn’t have realized how much fun it is to create in a new medium. Whether you’re thinking about starting a blog, going to the gym, growing a garden, or making a profile on a different social media platform – go for it! If you end up not liking it, it’s okay. The most important thing is that you gave it a shot and you know one way or the other. I definitely expected to fall off of my TikTok a few days in but I have posted daily content since its creation. Your new favorite thing could be just one try away!

      As always, give me a follow on TikTok @lilred6794 and keep pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. You never know what opportunities will come from it!

      Have you tried something new recently? How did it go? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

      May26

      Don’t Knock It!

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      Don’t Knock It!

      Hello!! Those of you who have been long term readers of lifewithlilred will know that I absolutely despise going to the dentist due to a horrible oral surgery gone wrong. For those of you who are just tuning in: I absolutely despise going to the dentist due to a horrible oral surgery gone wrong lol. It took a lot of time for me to feel even remotely comfortable going to routine cleanings and I am proud to say that they are a lot easier than they once were. Part of it definitely has to do with where I go for my cleanings: Aspen Dental.

      I know, I know – Aspen Dental isn’t the most well reviewed dentistry practice in the world. In fact, I know several people who vowed to never step foot in one again lol. However, it is affordable and I love my oral hygienist who has been taking care of me since I started going a handful of years ago. She is well aware of my dentist phobia and does her best to accommodate anything that I need to make me more comfortable. This includes explaining everything she’s doing as she does it as well as providing ample time for me to take breaks. It might not seem like much but it has transformed my appointments into a more positive experience and encourages me to keep trying to do better with my oral health.

      I had an appointment at Aspen Dental this past week and as I was waiting for the dentist to check in on me after my cleaning, I couldn’t help but snap this picture of my X-Rays. It always makes me laugh to see my piercings show up:

      ^^^ Lol so cool!

      As I waited, I also pondered all of the ways that Aspen Dental has helped me. Regardless of if the practice as a whole might not be well received, the people who work at mine are phenomenal and their expertise is crystal clear. So, I guess what I’m trying to say is Don’t Knock It! I began going to Aspen Dental because they were able to get me in immediately for a chipped tooth. That experience alone told me everything I needed to know because I was upset and in pain and they took excellent care of me. I scheduled an appointment for a cleaning that very day, kept every single appointment since, and have no regrets. I feel fully confident in their team and I hope this instills confidence in you should you ever need to get dental help ASAP!

      My appointment went great this week and I feel so good about the strides I have made in tackling my phobia and improving my oral health. I can’t believe I’m saying it but… I’m actually looking forward to my next cleaning!

      What are you scared of? What helped you get over your fears? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah