Weatherproof Your Lifestyle: Tips for Remote Workers Navigating Climate Change

From time to time I post guest articles with interesting topics related to my blog. Today’s guest article is written by Larry Waters, owner of the gardening and horticulture website called Sow Sustainability (https://sowsustainability.com/).

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and it’s having an increasingly large impact on humans around the globe. For some, this may mean relocating due to climate change-related events like rising sea levels or extreme weather. If you’re a remote worker considering a move for these reasons, Happymomblogger has some tips that can make the process easier.

Make Immediate Lifestyle Changes

As part of your relocation process, start making immediate lifestyle changes to reduce your environmental impact. This can be as simple as using carcinogen-free cleaning products or replacing incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs. These small steps can make a big difference in preserving the environment while also saving you money in the long run.

Research Potential Locations and Their Respective Climates

Research potential locations and their respective climates before making any final decisions on where to relocate. Consider factors such as average temperatures, access to natural resources like lakes and mountains, and whether or not any extreme weather events occur regularly in the area. All of these components should be taken into account when deciding where to move.

Convert All Real Estate Information as PDFs and Use Free Online Tools To Edit Them

If you’re in the real estate industry, you know how crucial it is to keep track of all the information related to your properties. A great way to do this is by converting all real estate information into PDFs. With PDFs, you can easily store, manage, and share information with your team and clients. Plus, PDFs are compatible with most devices, making them convenient for everyone involved. To take it a step further, try using free online tools to edit your PDFs — click for info. These tools make it easy to update and revise your documents in real-time, without the need for expensive software. Click for info on how to start converting and editing your real estate PDFs today.

Network with Current Residents

Networking with current residents is a valuable source of information for those planning to move to a new place. They can provide insights on local recommendations, schools, job opportunities, and climate change-related events that they have experienced first-hand. This information can help one prepare for their move and make better decisions.

Forming Your Own LLC

Establishing an LLC in California can help reduce taxes and control your workplace carbon footprint while providing more business stability than freelance work. This provides an advantage during uncertain times like those caused by climate change-related events such as flooding or hurricanes. Overall, an LLC can offer significant benefits for those looking to maintain a sustainable and stable business.

Analyze Cost of Living

Analyzing the cost of living should include considering various expenses such as housing costs, public transportation fees, and food expenses. The assessment should cover daily life expenditures that may have an economic impact on an individual. This research aids in assessing the total cost associated with relocation if the need arises due to climate change-related events occurring near the current place of residence or workplace.

Look For Homes With Energy Efficient Appliances

One way to promote sustainability in a new home is by looking for energy-efficient appliances when searching for homes. Energy-efficient appliances can reduce electricity bills and overall environmental footprint. Newer designs offer better insulation and reduced electrical usage, resulting in lower costs while still providing the same level of functionality.

Look For Public Transportation That Helps Cut Down On Emissions

To help reduce emissions and contribute to the preservation of the environment, it is important to consider public transportation options available in the area. Using buses or trains instead of private vehicles can significantly decrease the number of pollutants entering the atmosphere. One can plan accordingly to ensure one can get around town while prioritizing environmentally-friendly transportation options.

Weatherproofing your lifestyle as a remote worker is crucial in navigating the impacts of climate change. By implementing the tips provided in this guide, such as preparing for power outages and investing in appropriate weather-resistant gear, remote workers can minimize disruptions to their work and maintain productivity. Ultimately, adapting to changing weather patterns is essential to a successful and sustainable remote work lifestyle.

*images provided by Pexels

Editor’s note: opinions, views, and stats are provided by Larry Waters and are not directly affiliated with Happymomblogger’s website. This article was written without monetary compensation.

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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EARTH MONTH 2023 – Ditch Perfection and Embrace Action

April 22, 2023 is officially Earth Day. However, during the month of April you’ve probably heard the phrase, “Earth Day is Every Day” throughout social media, news outlets, and so forth. Well, no truer words can be said than how we embrace Earth Day, or Earth Month. Each year we learn something new, something that enlightens us on how we can help this beautiful planet and all the living things on it. While there are still skepticism on whether climate change is real, the bold truth lies in what you see around you and the environment you live in. Why there are fluctuating climate changes year after year is an indication that Earth is shifting and changing from the actions of her inhabitants. But there is also good news! According to an United Nations report, Earth’s ozone layer is slowly healing itself, due to drastic climate actions taken all over the world. It is estimated to heal in about 43 years as long as we continue on the path of restoring our precious planet.

You might wonder…well, how can I save the planet? I’m here to tell you…no one person can do that job. And no one can do it perfectly either. All it really takes is one small action, which will eventually lead to many small actions. We don’t have to spend tons of money buying an eco-friendly product, or ditch our gas powered cars to buy electric. We don’t even have to spend any money to be more environmentally friendly. We just have to take ACTION!!!

 

For some, being environmentally aware is a journey. For others, it’s a fast action, momentary clarity. Where you might fall in between is probably the easiest and most accessible to everyone. We can start our journey with a couple of earth saving tasks, such as using reusable grocery bags instead of store plastic bags. Then, as we see the changes that could make, we can add a couple more tasks. Below, I’ve listed 10 ways one can begin their journey. We don’t have to do things perfectly. We just have to take action with one small step.

DITCH PERFECTION AND EMBRACE ACTION:

1 – Look around you as you begin your journey. Do you live in an area where litter is practically everywhere? Or are your city workers diligently and regularly cleaning up litter and debris? It doesn’t matter where you live – there will always be trash and litter left on the roads, in beaches, and business areas. Strive to pick up litter when you see it. You don’t have to tour the whole city to do so – you can start with your area and instantly see the changes.

2 – Start within your Community. The best place to start is where you live. Gather your friends, family, and co-workers and choose places where you can do cleanups. Make it a weekly activity and help your community be more aware of climate action.

3 – Start at home. Your home is probably where you have the most control…and the most challenges. Getting your whole family on board to be more environmentally aware can be a challenge if anyone has opposing views. But keep it simple – start by recycling your plastic and aluminums. Sort your food waste from your regular waste. Some cities throughout the US has strict rules on how to recycle and what to recycle, so check with your city’s municipal and/or trash services.

4 – Choose to buy responsibly. Where you put your money can determine how businesses will act. Don’t want to spend money on plastic waste? Support businesses that create products meant to help the environment. Not sure what to do with a closetful of clothes you’ll never wear again? Think about what to purchase the next time you want a new shirt or pants. 

5 – Choose organic. The word “organic” has been around for many years and there were some ambiguity in the beginning. People thought they were being “green-washed” into buying organic while not really knowing where the products were made or how they were made. Companies were jumping on the bandwagon with easy terms such as “made with organic ingredients” or “all-natural”, and inevitably caused confusion for real brands who were producing responsibly. Always check the labels and ingredients and better yet – do some research on the brands you buy from.

6 – Grow your own food. You don’t need a green thumb to grow food at home. There are many easy to grow plants that can be grown in pots or the smallest of gardens. Growing your own food reduces the carbon footprint of food shipped to stores. Your food is right in your own home, so you can choose what you want to grow based on what your family eats. The easiest plants to grow for food are: radishes, snap peas, cucumbers, lettuce, beans, and carrots. Start off with seeds to sow in your garden or planter, or buy organic and locally grown seedlings at garden centers. Growing your own food is also healthier and create an eco-system that helps pollinators and biodiversity.

7 – Zero waste/Less Waste. You don’t have to go completely off grid to be more eco-conscious. Being zero waste isn’t achievable for everyone, but reducing waste can be achievable for almost everyone. Consider what you’re buying and why you’re buying it. If you have children then that can be difficult to do, but not unattainable. The next time you buy something, seriously think about the absolute need for it. Can it be recycled or reused? Can you keep it for many, many years?

8 – Contact your lawmakers. Government who makes laws to help or hinder the environment needs to hear your voice. After all, we elect these officials and help pay their paychecks, why not make them work for us? Contact your legislators, congress, and your governors. Write letters, make phone calls, and attend public hearings when possible.

9 – Reduce Waste at school and workplace. Besides being more eco conscious at home, take on climate action at your school and workplace too. Check to see if your school and workplace recycles bottles and cans, recycle paper, reuse paper, and have a trash sorting program. 

10 – Teach your children. Kids are the future and their actions to help the planet can start as young as possible. Ideas to get your kids and whole family on board:

  • start a trash sorting system where you sort food for Compost, regular trash, and any recyclable bottles and cans. Then be sure to dump them correctly and/or take them to recycling centers.

  • pack school lunches in reusable containers and make a habit to do so each time.

  • teach your children that it isn’t necessary to have new toys all the time. Trade toys with their friends or family members, buy gently used toys, or buy from brands that use recycled materials.

When it comes down to reality – it truly isn’t difficult to help the planet. The 5 words you can remember when you’re stuck in a situation are:

  • REDUCE, REUSE, REFUSE, RECYCLE, REPURPOSE

Happy Earth Month and let us know how you’ve helped the planet!!!

The Top 10 Earth Day Events of 2023

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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Earth Month with Natural Products Expo

Last month, the Natural Products Expo West graced us with their lively presence at the Anaheim Convention Center. Armed with an infinite amount of information in the natural and organic products industry, it is a worthwhile networking event that is not to be missed. My son has been attending with me since he was 7 years old, and each year the both of us look forward to the 3-day long event. Although we were tired and sore from walking the floors, we were also fulfilled with a sense of knowledge and pride that the health and wellness industry is continuously striving to do more.

April is the official start of Earth Month and as the old saying goes, “every day should be earth day”, the good people at the Natural Products Expo brought in many new brands that focus on sustainability, biodiversity, and of course, how to combat the climate crisis our world is facing. Helping the planet is an important job for all of us, regardless our age, gender, and situation.

Here are some key takeaways from this year’s Natural Products Expo West:

Functional, plant-based, and regenerative are key words we look for when it comes to food. With resources depleting around the world and not regenerating fast enough, it’s important to support this movement of food products that give back to the earth, its people, and its environment.

Diversity and representation are what we strive for when it comes to brands and companies. As we emerge from the pandemic, we should be opening our eyes and hearts to those who are still below the grid, individuals who want and need to be seen and heard by showing through their brands and products.

Upcycling and diversifying are what the natural and organic industry aim for in the future. The need to throw away what can be readily reused or “upcycled” is yesterday’s news. Growing in our own backyards and turning something old into something new is a form of regeneration and to reuse what would have once been thrown away, such as fruit and vegetable skins, seeds, and so forth.

When you’re out shopping this year, keep an eye out for these emerging and climate-friendly companies:

There are many, many more companies to watch out for, so stay tuned and keep supporting the natural and organic products industry.

 

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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Winter Reset – Get Ready for Spring

Although spring time is just around the corner, many of us are still dredging through the very cold winter days. Here in California, snowcapped mountains beckon visitors to explore and enjoy the white snow and breezy climate. And while some are adventurous enough to brave the colder temperatures, many of us just want to sit by a cozy fire, read a book, or snuggle with a blanket.

During these cold months, it’s extremely important to keep up your immunity. While colder climate doesn’t necessarily get you sick, it can put a strain on your body’s natural defenses. The best ways to prevent getting ill and feeling sluggish is to find a balance that works for you. Winter going into spring is also a great time to refresh your home and reset your mind. And with warmer days coming up soon, we can plan ahead for a fresh restart.

DETOXING:

When we talk about detoxing, we’re referring to detoxing your body and mind so your energy becomes positive and clear. Colder weather tends to make us want comfort food, or food that gives us a lot of energy in order to keep warm. And depending on where you live, fresh fruits and vegetables might not be readily available so we reach for fattier and less healthy food. Instead, stock up on food that builds your immunity and fights off viruses and germs.

According to holistic healthcare, certain foods can boost your immunity while preventing certain types of diseases and illnesses. The following are wonderful food to try during these cold and damp months or anytime throughout the year:

  • Ginger. A root plant that grows deep in the soil, ginger has well known and scientific benefits for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory, and many other health properties. It’s great for treatment of stomach issues and opening up the sinus. Make ginger tea with 5-6 slices of fresh ginger mixed with hot water. Drinking the tea hot helps balance the QI inside your body and reduces dampness. 

  • Turmeric, also known as Curcumin. Turmeric, much similar to ginger, is a root that has many antibacterial properties. Known mostly to fight inflammation in the body, turmeric has compounds that can reduce pain and certain type of illnesses. 

  • Black pepper. Known as a powerful antioxidant and helps reduce free radicals in your body, black pepper is extremely strong in nature and taste. Be careful with the amount of fresh black pepper you use as high amounts can cause discomfort in the stomach.

  • Cinnamon. Cinnamon is another powerful antioxidant found in nature. Cinnamon can prevent inflammation and helps promote easy digestion when added to food. Try sprinkling cinnamon powder on your coffee, hot cocoa, or milk for a tasty alternative to sweeteners.

  • Cloves. While not the most commonly used herb, cloves boast many powerful health benefits. Cloves is a powerhouse against bacteria. As an ancient health remedy, cloves has been found in natural toothpastes to prevent fungal infections and other bad bacteria. It can also be used as a household cleaning agent. You can find whole cloves or ground cloves in most natural and organic markets.

EXERCISE AND REST:

Study shows that a lifelong habit of exercise is associated with a longer health span, delaying major chronic conditions/diseases, and building immunity. Any form of exercise will suffice, but those that directly help strengthen your organs and bones are more beneficial. Try eastern exercises such as Taichi, Yoga, and Qigong. These slower type of movements target the whole body as well as improve circulation and Qi: the vital life force in any living being.

Proper rest and rehabilitation is important for a healthy mind and body. Take a few minutes each day to relax your mind and soul. Deep breathing exercises and stretches throughout the day improves your blood flow which is crucial for a healthier lifestyle. Just look at cats! They stretch periodically throughout their day and especially after waking up from a nap.

HEALTHY FOOD CHOICES:

It’s no secret that what we eat ultimately affects our bodies. But let’s not forget food also affects our moods. When you hear the old phrase, “you are what you eat”, nothing can be truer than what we put in our bodies. If you’re ever in doubt, be mindful of what you eat and notice the changes in your body and mind. Do you feel sluggish? Or do you feel energetic and happy? Virtually everything you choose to put inside your bodies can be beneficial or detrimental.

Healthy food choices should include:

Colorful fruits and vegetables. The colors of fruits and vegetables correlate with their companion vitamins. For instance, Vitamin A found in carrots produce a compound that turns certain fruits and vegetables orange and red. And certain colors represent the beneficial vitamins and nutrients important for a healthy lifestyle.

Red fruits and vegetables includes lycopene, folate, and Vitamin C which are important for antioxidant, heart health, and inflammation. Try tomatoes, watermelon, and grapefruit.

Orange and yellow fruits and vegetables includes Vitamin A, fiber, Potassium, Vitamin C, and folate. Try carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and corn.

Green fruits and vegetables includes fiber, folate, magnesium, and Vitamin K. These are all important factors in reducing the risk of certain cancers and heart disease, and among many other health benefits. Try spinach, kale, asparagus, Brussel sprouts, and green herbs.

Blue and purple fruits and vegetables includes manganese, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K. Blue and purple colored fruits and vegetables are powerhouses when it comes to lowering the risk of certain types of diseases and illnesses. Try blueberries, blackberries, red/purple cabbage, and plums.

TAKING A BREAK:

Yes, life gets in the way. But when we don’t slow down once in awhile our bodies deplete vitamins and nutrients and our regenerative powers get greatly reduced. Our immunity breaks down and we can get easily ill or fatigued. Some steps to taking a break now and then include writing a daily or weekly journal, meditation, reading a lighthearted book, being out in nature, and going to places that bring you peace and happiness.

The only way we can reset ourselves is to be mindful of why we are so busy. When we realize why we get stressed or depressed, we can start a journey to reset our body and mind. 

CLEAR THE CLUTTER:

With all good intentions, we try to keep our homes clean. But that should also include our cars, offices, electronics, yards, and any place that take up space. We all know that a cluttered area creates a cluttered mind. While there are some that thrives on clutter, most people, including animals do not fare well with too many things going on. With clutter, your mind has a harder time separating and breaking down thoughts and ideas.

Start clearing the clutter by making a list of what you want to clear out. Involve your spouse and kids. Decide what you absolutely must keep and donate, recycle, or throw out the rest. If clutter becomes too difficult, try to hire professionals who can help make a better plan for now and going forward.

Remember to take some time to reset your mind, body, and life.

Resources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9110206/ and healthline.com 

*These are not medical advice. Please consult a medical professional if you have any questions.

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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Year of 2023 – New Trends and Predictions

2023’s new motto seems to be, “2023 and the New Me”. It’s also the year of the Rabbit for those celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year. The past few years have been rough. For me, for my loved ones, and for many others throughout the world. But as people will tell you, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and I truly believe that when you make your own manifestations you can guide your true self through positive healing.

Whether you’re a stickler with new year resolutions or you live life day by day, there is always room for positive changes. Below I’ve noted some interesting predictions and trends for the year 2023. See if any of these will work for you and give some of them a try.

2023 TRENDS AND PREDICTIONS:

Mental Health – many schools in the US offered new counselors and therapists in 2022 as school-aged children suffered academically and emotionally during the Covid pandemic. 2023 offers up to 10,000 more counselors in K-12 grades in hopes of bridging the gap of much needed mental health intervention. Adults need mental health checks too. Visit or speak with a counselor, therapist, or someone you trust in the religious sector. Check out some health and wellness trends here: https://medium.com/style-my-soul-stylemysoul-com/11-emerging-health-wellness-trends-for-2023-45ccf81ac7f9

Food Health – Finding a healthy balance and being more aware of one’s health is even more prevalent as we come out of the Covid pandemic crisis. Eating healthy is crucial to longevity and less pain and illnesses later on. We’re seeing a rising trend in plant-based food made with clean ingredients such as peas, cauliflower, and mushrooms replacing the typical soy-based ingredient. Regenerative ingredients that are readily grown and reproduce include peas and mushrooms and they’re also easier to digest. Check out some new plant-based brands: https://www3.forbes.com/lifestyle/26-plant-based-snacks-shakes-and-meals-for-busy-lifestyles-vue/4/

App-based Health – Technology is a double-edged sword. There are many benefits to technology but also many pitfalls. Take advantage of the positives in technology by subscribing to health apps. There are Yoga health apps, mindfulness health apps, meditation health apps, and so forth. Subscriptions to these health apps can be free or with a nominal fee. Check out some health apps here: https://www.livestrong.com/article/13768056-best-health-apps/

2023 Key Words and Phrases:

“Own Your Truth” – the past couple of years were major struggles for many of us. As we emerge from all the negativity and prejudice in the past few years, let us be true to ourselves. When you own your truth you are telling yourself to listen to your own inner voice, your own beliefs. Your beliefs may not align with others, but the key goal is to be true to yourself.

“Accountability” – if you watched the news in the past few years you surely will have noticed injustice, hatred, and racism. Let 2023 be the year of accountability. Take responsibility and be accountable for what you do and say.

“Kindness” – while it’s not a new word or concept, this movement or act has risen from the ashes of post-Covid pandemic. More and more people are talking to each other, to strangers, and are more open to paying it forward in a kind and positive way. Of course we should do kind acts not for a reward or recognition. We should be kind just for the sake of it. Scientific study actually proves that doing kind acts improve your mental and physical health. Here’s an article to read on it: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20201215-why-being-kind-to-others-is-good-for-your-health

Clothing Trends – a couple of years ago, companies let their employees work from home either the entire week or a few days a week. As the workforce emerges from the pandemic, people are back to wearing suits and dress shoes for work. But the strict button-down shirts and tailored suits might not be for everyone, even those working in high profile jobs such as lawyers and politicians. You’ll notice that while clothing can be structured, there is also a more laid back appeal with emphasis on comfort while having style.

Sustainability – more and more people are conscious of the environment and the detrimental effects of climate change or global warming. The key trends are a more circular economy and regenerative food. Food not perfectly shaped or grown are incredibly edible and suitable for daily consumption. Brands are tracing and holding farmers and the government accountable to what is allowed in bio engineering and what is truly organically grown. Reading labels is crucial to owning your own health and making healthier life choices. To learn more about circular economy and why it benefits the planet, check it out here: https://www.epa.gov/recyclingstrategy/what-circular-economy

2023 Food Trends:

Charcuterie – remember the sudden Charcuterie craze last year? Well it’s still going strong into 2023 as people all over the world are taking these food boards to extreme. Traditionally, the Charcuterie is a French term for prepared meat products such as ham, bacon, sausages, pate’s, and so forth. In the US, the Charcuterie really jumped the board, so to speak, to include Hot Chocolate boards, pastries, and even candy! While people still call these non-traditional boards as “Charcuterie”, let’s try to use the term properly for where they originated.

Dates – when you think of dates you’re probably thinking of sweet, dried fruits found in cakes and other pastries. The date industry has really bloomed around the world including using date syrup to replace maple syrup and even regular sweeteners. Dates have a plethora of health benefits such as fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Try snacking on some Mediterranean dates to replace or include in your healthy snacking habits.

Pasta alternatives – with the rise of conscious eating and just trying to find alternatives to traditional foods, pasta alternatives made with chickpeas, lentil, and rice can be enjoyed by almost everyone. Try using these alternatives to traditional wheat pasta in your regular pasta recipes.

Whatever your plans (or no plans) are for the year 2023, this is a great year to take a step back and reevaluate your own worth. Who do you want to be? What do you want to accomplish? Any goals toward improving yourself? Whatever trends or predictions you come upon, remember that you have the power to make positive changes.

 

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm

 

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The Kindness Gene – January Kindness Month

The one thing about getting older is the ability to look back and see what kind of person you’ve become. Were we nice as children? Did we play fairly with other children and hardly argued with our parents and siblings? Were we kind to our teachers and school administrators? Did we say thank you and please and truly appreciated the people who helped us? Were all of these behaviors and attitudes learned and taught to us, or was there an inherent gene somewhere in our body that told us to naturally be nice and gracious?

As the saying goes, “nature over nurture”, sometimes I wonder why a person is kind or compassionate to another. I’ve certainly met my share of unkind people in my life and I can guess that they were not treated kindly or fairly in their formative years. For children, the innate ability to see the world as it is also gives them the ability to be less judgmental. But as we grow older and live life through good and bad experiences, our attitudes change and our views of the world and people change as well. But that should not be the excuse to be cruel or hurtful. No one has a perfect life, but our choices truly can define us when we’re older.

January is national Kindness Month and schools around the country are encouraging students, staff, and families to take this month to show some kindness. Would it be so wonderful if people were kind all the time. But alas, we do our best regardless of how people treat us. At my school, we are hosting a Kindness Week in January with each day of the week highlighting and fostering kindness, inclusivity, and compassion. Perhaps you can try doing this at your children’s school or your workplace. There are some great non-profit organizations that help build and spread kindness during Kindness Month as well as year-round. Check out some ideas below to foster kindness in your own home and community!

 

  • The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation ( https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/) – a website full of wonderful, easy, and age-appropriate ideas for kids and adults. I’ve applied a lot of these ideas for school and work and they’re super easy and creative.
  • The Great Kindness Challenge (https://thegreatkindnesschallenge.com/) – fun and inspirational activities and ideas for all ages. You can also order some Kindness gifts on their website for gifts to students and teachers.
  • Donations to non-profit organizations. These organizations are similar to charities where your monetary or in-kind donations help them with fundraising, food for shelters, building maintenance, free health care, and so forth. 
  • Plant trees. Help plant trees at your local parks, schools, or national forests. Trees are incredible resources for providing oxygen, and the power to remove harmful gases like carbon dioxide making the air we breathe healthier. Always check with locations before planting trees on your own. To find a national park in your state, visit: https://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.html
  • Community cleanups. You can be a party of two or twenty if you want to help clean up your community and local beaches. Start small or join organizations like Keep America Beautiful (https://kab.org/) where you can find local chapters in your area. Join their groups or start your own. Cleaning up your neighborhood and community fosters a healthy and happier environment for all.

Do you have other ideas for promoting kindness and compassion? All it takes is one kind act, and a ripple effect will take place.

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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