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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An Eco-Friendly Holiday Gift List

It’s been a crazy and hectic few months for me, but I promised an updated Environmentally friendly holiday IDEA list so here it is. Wishing everyone peace, joy, and great health for 2023!

ECO-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY GIFT LIST AND IDEAS FOR 2022:

Many of us are scrambling and looking for possible gift ideas on the internet, in stores, and even creating some by hand. Whatever your holiday gift season plans are, make sure to include some eco-friendly ones this year. With plastic pollution and just overall waste throughout the world, we can all do better to improve the lives of our health and the health of our planet. Below I’ve listed some unique brands/products/ideas that are eco-friendly and give back to charities as well. 

1 – Plaine Products: A sustainable brand started by two sisters who were devasted from seeing the destruction made by plastic. They created products that benefit people, nature, and help reduce the rising damages of plastic use and production. Their products include natural and organic hand sanitizers and beauty products. Simply return your used bottles and dispenser pumps back to the company and they’ll handle the rest. Reclamation of empty containers is a big step in helping reduce plastic in our world. 

Right now you can save 25% off through December 9, which is more than the usual 20% off you’d get with my Ambassador code. Please use code: GIFT25 when purchasing through this link: https://www.plaineproducts.com/ref/Suzan%20C./

These make wonderful gifts for families, teachers, and friends. You’re helping them, yourself, and the environment.

2 – The Non-GMO Project: A grassroots non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and building the non-GMO food supply, educating consumers, and providing verified non-GMO choices. Your purchases support their ongoing efforts to bring awareness and help other Non-GMO verified brands: https://store.nongmoproject.org/

3 – EARTHDAY.ORG: A non-profit organization that supports and sponsors campaigns and companies that help protect the environment and people. Their products are organic, renewable, and circular: https://earthday-store.com/

4 – Mercari: While this isn’t truly an eco-friendly company, they do however sell gently-used products ranging from clothing to school supplies, to vintage items. Buying gently-used products helps the circular economy and environment to reduce your carbon footprint: https://mercari.com

5 – National Parks. Parks desperately need your support year round. The beauty of nature is within us and all around us. It’s our sole duty as humans to preserve nature as much as possible. Most parks rely on donations throughout the year for upkeep and to keep land, animals, and people safe. Consider making donations to your local or national parks: https://www.nationalparks.org/

6 – Swap-Outs: We all have some gently used clothing, toys, or cookware at home. Instead of buying new ones this year, host a toy swap out party where friends and family can bring their gently used toys to exchange for other ones. This way, these toys will be loved and appreciated again.

7 – Beesponsible.com: A company dedicated in educating and helping bees and bee farms around the world. Bees are incredibly crucial in helping the pollination and production of certain food on our planet. Visit their online shop for more info: https://www.beesponsible.com/

8 – Happy Earth: A sustainable, organic, and charitable company that plants trees, fight climate change, and help clean up trash with every purchase. Their products range from clothing to reusables to lovely organic blankets. Right now you can save an extra 20% off online with code: EVERGREEN. Visit their website for more info: https://www.happyearthapparel.com/

9 – Grades of Green: a student-led non-profit program dedicated to educate, bring awareness, and reward students and schools for their environmental efforts. This award winning program is worldwide and provides necessary education for schools and communities on saving the planet. Consider making a charitable donation to help their program: https://gradesofgreen.givingfuel.com/general-giving

10 – Gardener gifts: Gardening is one of my true loves in life. Being out in nature and with the plants around us helps us recharge and replenish what is lost in our soul. Whether you’re a beginner or an avid gardener, you can always find something for the gardener enthusiasts in your life. Visit your local gardening center to help local farms and chat with expert horticulturists to get ideas for your yard and garden!

Wherever you are in life right now and whatever plans you make for the holiday season, remember to give back to the planet as much as possible. We can all do our part in helping our planet be cleaner and safer for everyone.

Have a safe, healthy, and peaceful holiday season!

 

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 Moms Group Trap

If you have school-aged children, then you might have inevitably joined the PTA, PTO, or some form of volunteer group. Much like a clique, these volunteer organizations vaguely hide behind the term “volunteer”. They’re more or less a social group of moms (and very rarely dads) who meet during the day and sometimes evenings to discuss the future of your children’s school activities. But they’re really not all that bad. While some form tight groups after years of being together, there are a few that are accepting of new blood. And when you do find the ones that open up their arms to you, take that initial step into their embrace and consider yourself lucky to be included.

I’ve worked in the education system for many years but only in the elementary area less than 8 years. When my son first started 1st grade, I was advised to join the school’s PTA – Parent Teacher Association – and be a Room Mom as quickly as possible. Heading the advice of my fellow mom friend, I did join the PTA and fortunately was also selected to be the room mom for my son’s 1st grade teacher. I can earnestly recall that while my experience as a room mom was fulfilling, my role as a PTA chairperson wasn’t so much. Even with a couple of friends who were in the same PTA, I felt shunned and ignored for the most part by the PTA Board. And sadly, after speaking with several other moms later on down the line, most of them were also left in the dust, desperately wanting to help the school in any way possible.

While my friends shared similar experiences as mine, I still had high hopes for the school’s PTA Board. The Board consisted of the President, VP, and head of the main branches and oddly, they were all friends because their children were all friends. From the perspective of a parent and not an employee of the school, I felt like an outcast amongst the group of mom friends. Surely their kids knew each other since birth and they all took vacations together (this I found out to actually be true later on!), and hosted lavish drinking parties on weekends like they were college roommates. They were like the old motto, “live together, die together” or something to that effect. And if you didn’t look like them, talk like them, and dress like them, then you’re not really part of the group. Fortunately my innate independent nature prevented me from feeling the need to push my way into the tight ladies group. I attended as many meetings as I could and helped out as much as I was “allowed” to. I say that with a heavy grain of salt because while I signed up to volunteer for other events aside from my own, I received only the obligatory emails sent to the general public. Little did I know, that some of us who weren’t already part of that group never received the more detailed messages about where to meet and when to meet to set up for the events.

If you’re like me and most moms who have also experienced the same nonchalant snubs from the PTA, then you probably have some interesting stories to tell. As I think back to the first years when I joined, I later on realized that perhaps the divide between those moms and myself was because I was both a school staff member and a PTA member. There were some pretty bad blood according to some resources between the PTA and the school staff. Unfortunately by default of association, I was reckoned to be snubbed due to my employee status. With that knowledge deftly put on the back burner, I didn’t begrudge those PTA moms. In fact, I felt bad for them and for their desperate need to cling onto something that gave them no joy or satisfaction. They only cared for status and fame and the titles of “President”, “Vice President” or “Secretary”. And while things still got taken care of, fundraisers raised money, and recognitions were made, the bad blood still carried throughout the years. Even as administration changed and PTA members came and went, the stigma of the PTA moms and school staff not getting along left a bad taste for me and many others.

Now that my son is no longer in elementary school, I still volunteer as a PTA Chair because I work at the school and I always want the best for those kids. As years went by and some of the remaining PTA members stayed on, they realized for the most part, that they did not have a good reputation. Why? Because of the bad blood, the exclusion, and the need to do everything within their little clique. New parents who were interested and enticed to join the PTA were left scratching their heads, wondering why they signed up when they never received invitations to volunteer at events. They paid their dues but that was it. Slowly, but surely, the PTA changed hands and mantras. Slowly new board members and chairpersons brought in new ideas and new attitudes. Were they all still accepting and inclusive? Probably not 100%. But that’s okay, because as a parent, you just want the best for your children. If you have to pay money for fundraising instead of showing up at events, then do that instead. Don’t be shamed for not helping out. Don’t feel shame for not having time to set up game booths or make posters. Some PTA’s pay for 60% of a school’s funding, and that’s quite a lot. In the end, as long as you’re able to donate some money to your child’s school’s PTA, then those funds will trickle into where they need to be. But if you’re still brave enough to join the PTA as a board member, chairperson, or just to help out, then I have some survival tips for you.

Now, years later after the old Board swept through the school like a swarm of locusts, the new PTA Board and members seem like a breath of fresh air. I don’t see as much cliques nor do I feel the PTA is exclusively picking out new members like a 5th grade soccer team. I always have high hopes for school clubs and organizations because in the end, we all want what’s best for our children, right?

Tips on How to Survive the PTA:

  • Join the PTA and pay the membership fee. Paying a membership fee helps get you signed up for events and the ability to vote if you’re on the Board.

  • You don’t have to be on the Board or the Committee to be a part of the PTA.

  • You can sign up to volunteer for as many or as little events as you want. But be realistic – if you sign up but never show up, then your name will be remembered – trust me, it has happened with pretty much all PTA’s. Sign up for the ones you know you can volunteer for.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If the PTA doesn’t answer your questions, reach out to the school Principal or Secretary.

  • Attend the General Association meetings if possible. These meetings highlight the upcoming school events and any additional info you won’t find elsewhere.

  • Reach out to the PTA President and Board. If they aren’t friendly or forthcoming and you truly want to help, then attend a general meeting and talk to them there.

  • Get to know at least one or two PTA members. You can share information and/or attend meetings together.

  • If you have previous experiences, then be sure to let PTA know so you can apply your skills. Even if the PTA doesn’t utilize your unique skills, it’s still good for them to know for any future events/clubs/activities.

  • Don’t take things too personally. If you’re turned off by the nonchalant attitudes but still want to help, reach out to the Committee Chairs. The Committee Chairs are heads of certain programs such as Jog-a-thon, Book Fairs, and Dining fundraisers, and any afterschool clubs. They might be easier to track down and speak with as they directly handle these programs.

  • If you don’t receive any communications from the PTA, make sure you’re actually signed up. Oftentimes parents think it’s the school’s job to post events hosted by the PTA. While most Principals do send out newsletters, make sure you actually joined the PTA and entered the necessary contact info online.

  • Don’t feel obligated to attend PTA functions outside of the normal school functions. While getting to know the other PTA members is a great idea, don’t feel you need to be at every single event.

  • When in doubt you can always try again next school year. Or if you want to make a positive impact, sign up as a Board member or join a Committee.

It shouldn’t matter if you have time to volunteer or not, work full time or part time, or even just too tired to do any extra volunteering. We all have our problems to deal with, and speaking from someone who has millions of projects going on, it can be a struggle volunteering your time year after year. Best of luck!

 

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

 

*photo courtesy of boston.com

 

 

 

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Easy-breezy, Eco-friendly Back to School

It’s that time of year again where kids are dreading going back to school, while parents are eagerly pushing them out the door. As parents we do what we can to help our children have a successful and valuable school life experience. Helping our kids make healthy life choices early on ensures they’ll take those important lessons with them into adulthood.

My son is starting high school and it’s bittersweet for me because soon we’ll be thinking about college applications. But I still try to teach him to make healthy habits that I hope he’ll carry into adulthood. I try to instill values of the importance of a healthy school life balance. That includes eating well, getting enough sleep, and doing things that limits stress. But admittedly, school has become extremely stressful for children over the years. Too much competition within schools, peers, and even homelife. When I’m too stressed, I harken back to my younger years living at home with my folks and remember the balance that my own mom tried to teach me.

I’m going to list some of my tried and true, and favorite back to school tips and hacks. I wish I had more time during the day to make lavish breakfasts and lunches for my teenager, but most days that just won’t work out. Being a parent is one of the toughest jobs in the Universe, and we can all pretty much agree that we want the best for our kids, no matter their ages.

SCHOOL VS. HOME:

  • To save time and money, try to reuse what you have. If their backpacks are still in great working order, doesn’t have ripped seams, and still have all the zippers and pockets in tack, then clean up the backpack and reuse it. Unless your child has really outgrown their backpack, reusing them from year to year is a great way to save money, time, and produce less waste in the landfill. If unable to reuse, you can always donate the backpack or do a trade with a friend.

  • To keep school work separate, give your kids their own work station. Create a box, crate, or cabinet just for their school work. This will help you and your child find things a lot easier. Rotate throughout the years with things you want to keep and toss.

  • Create a lunch station. This can easily be done in any household and will save you a lot of time in the morning. Depending on the ages of your children, gather snacks that are healthy, delicious, and easy to eat. See below for easy lunch station snacks and ideas.

  • Buy bulk when possible. Buying bulk helps reduce extra waste and saves time. But, buy only bulk items your family constantly uses. Separate the items into the lunch station and school work station.

  • Healthy school lunches is crucial for maintaining your child’s energy throughout the day. Depending on their ages, children’s lunches should include a balanced meal, especially if they don’t eat breakfast. Some schools throughout the US offers free lunch but not all of them offer a healthy lunch. See below for healthy and delicious lunch ideas.

  • Create a winding down time before bedtime. The first couple of weeks of school can be exciting and stressful so setting a bedtime routine early will help your child get back on track. Turn off electronics at least one hour before bedtime, try not to drink any beverages at least one hour before bedtime, and take a soothing shower or bath before going to bed.

  • Have some wholesome and delicious afterschool snack. Kids are tired, grumpy, and most likely hungry after school, so having some snacks at home ensures they’re eating healthy while relaxing. See below for yummy afterschool snack ideas.

EASY, HEALTHY, AND DELICIOUS LUNCH AND SNACKS FOR KIDS:

Lunch from home should be quick, delicious, and healthy. Most students don’t have a lot of time to eat during lunch and recess because of the limited time for eating and playing. While you might be tempted (or insisted by your child) to pack conveniently bagged snacks you’d find in the supermarkets, they’re not all that healthy. It’s okay to include them once in awhile or limit to just one item in their lunch bag.

  • Yogurt squeeze – these yogurt squeezers or tubes are convenient and pack some needed nutrition and energy. They might not always be easy to open, so younger kids would need help opening them at school. Try to purchase yogurt squeezes that are low in sugar and fat as some brands hide the true value of nutrition by adding tons of sugar and artificial flavors and colors.

  • Cut or sliced fruits – fruits are nature’s best sugar so pack easy to eat ones such as grapes, sliced apples, sliced oranges, and berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Kids love to hold things in their hands so berries and sliced fruit are fun, delicious, and healthy!

  • Crackers and cheese snacks – choose whole wheat crackers and low sodium cheese. Cut cheese into cubes or thin slices so kids can make them into finger sandwiches if they want.

  • Yogurt Parfaits – a delicious, fun, and cute way of serving yogurt with fruit. Make it extra fancy by layering the yogurt, fruit, and any other toppings you have at home. Try these as a delicious after school snack for your kids.

  • Hummus and vegetables – these are great for school lunches or afterschool snacks. You can make homemade hummus or buy them at stores. Sliced vegetables such as carrots, radishes, and cucumbers pair well with hummus. Add fancier vegetables such as Haricot Verts, red and white carrots, asparagus, and endive for a special treat.

  • Hard-boiled eggs – most kids enjoy eggs whether they’re scrambled, fried, or hard boiled. Plus, they’re fun to peel and easy to eat. If you’re adding them to a school lunch, make sure you peel them first if your kids are little. This will save them time and frustration if they’re not used to peeling eggshells.

Try to avoid overly sugared lunch food. Kids will get that “sugar high” which isn’t beneficial to them or their teachers. Pack lunches that don’t spoil or keep an ice pack with their lunch containers. Be sure to pack them a reusable water bottle as schools should have a water refill station. Reusable utensils, and a sturdy lunch bag are necessary to create a safe and friendly environment for your child and everyone around them.

Best of luck for your school-aged children!

*photos courtesy of Martha Stewart Living

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