Category:

DIY

DIYHome

7 Home Repairs Everyone Should Know

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

Owning a house is something that we all dream about, but with being an owner comes more than just relaxing on your deck and having fun times with your family around the fireplace. It needs someone who will be dedicated to keeping your home safe and running smoothly. Occasionally repairing things around your house is the part that comes with it, even if you are not a big DIY person, there are a couple of things that you need to know how to fix by yourself.

1.   Learn How to Unclog a Toilet

Toilet bowl in modern bathroom interior

Most times clogged toilets are difficult to deal with because most of us start making bad decisions at that moment. When we start realizing that the toilet is clogged it is filling up with water and overflowing. Therefore, you need to know how to fix it in advance so you know what to do when the crisis strikes.

It’s fairly simple. The only crucial thing you need to have is a plunger. If you think you need something more heavy-duty is a plumbing snake, and both of those are under 10 dollars. In most cases, the snake isn’t necessary, but if you have a child that can throw things like toys or jewelry in the toilet bowl, then only the snake will do the trick.

This is the best tip someone can give you. If you don’t have a tool close to you and you need to fix the clog quickly, mix dish soap with four cups of boiling water and put it into the toilet bowl. That should clean it out if the clog is made out of biological things.

2.   Learn How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

There are many ways of fixing leaky faucets. In most cases it only depends on the type of sauces you have. There are two types of faucets, two-handle washerless faucets and single-handle washerless faucets. But in most cases, you don’t need to worry about what type your faucet is. Most leaks can be fixed with a wrench and in some bad cases, it can require a trip to your local hardware store to buy the replacement part.

3.   Learn How to Replace a Faucet

fix a faucet

You might hear some people bragging about how they can replace the faucet on their own, but that is not that impressive because replacing a faucet it is simple. All you need to do is find a new fixture that has the holes as your old one because it needs to fit properly on the sink. Before you start, take pictures of everything before you start working so you know how to put it back together. After that shut the water odd, drain your faucet and them follow the instructions that came with the faucet.

4.   Learn How to Unclog a Garbage Disposal

There are many ways you can fix clogged garbage disposal, sometimes it can even be fun like doing a mini science experiment. All you need to do is pour half of the box of baking soda into the drain on the side that the disposal is on, and then pour the other half into the disposal. Chase the baking soda with white vinegar and let it do its magic for an hour. After the one hour has past pour hot water over it and your disposal should be unplugged.

5.   Learn How to Fix the Washing Machine

If your washing machine breaks don’t immediately start searching for a handyman, thinking about how you can do it on your own. It may sound complicated but in most cases, it’s nothing that you can’t fix by yourself. You just need a few tools and light. Most times the filter is clogged or you just need to buy a spare part. Most washing machines like LG or Bosch ones have the same problems. Therefore, there are a lot of places that sell LG washing machine parts.

6.   Learn How to Clean Grout

It is important that you clean your grout from time to time. Even though this may not sound like a repair, by cleaning it you are repairing it. All you need to do is mix some baking soda and bleach. Apply it to the grout and scrub the grout with a small brush or a toothbrush. After you scrubbed it to clean it with some water and you will have a new looking grout.

7.   Learn How to Replace Outlets

replace outlet

If you need to change outlets, the first step is to cut the power and with a voltage, tester confirms that there is no electricity in them. Take off the faceplate, unscrew the outlet and memorize which wires connect to which outlet. Connect the new outlet, screw it back on and turn the electricity back on and test your work.

Be confident in yourself, you don’t always need a handyman. You can surprise yourself with your independence. But make sure you evaluate the risk that comes with repairing things before you start doing it.

About the Author

Stella Ryne is an art historian, traveller, conscious consumer and a proud mother. When she is not trying to improve the things around her (and herself, for that matter), she likes to lose herself in a good book. Stay in touch with Stella via Twitter and  Facebook.

 

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Holiday

A Busy Mama’s Guide to Managing Holiday Stress

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

There are a lot of expectations around the holidays. As a mother, you’ll probably feel the pressure to cook the perfect meal, buy the best gifts, and attend every social gathering, while still managing your regular day-to-day responsibilities.

Balancing these tasks can quickly become overwhelming, especially if you don’t take care of yourself. However, with realistic expectations, mindful planning, and a little self care, you can keep holiday stress at bay. Here are five simple ways even the busiest mamas can navigate the holiday season:

Balance Social Obligations

The holidays are a great time to gather with family and friends. However, committing to too many social gatherings can become more of a stressor than something you enjoy. Consider which holiday gatherings you’d like to host and attend versus the ones you’d rather skip.

Be sure to prioritize important family traditions, and don’t be afraid to say no when you don’t feel up to going somewhere. If you have to turn down an invitation, consider sending a thoughtful thank you card, or offer to meet up at a later date. The holidays are a busy time for everyone, so chances are they’ll understand.

Treat Your Body Well

During the busy season, it’s easy to push your own needs to the side. However, prioritizing your health and scheduling time to focus on yourself will help you keep up on your mental and physical needs amid all the holiday chaos. Be sure to carve out time in your schedule to take care of yourself and practice self care.

Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and eating healthily. In addition, consider blocking off a day to treat yourself to a stress-relieving spa treatment. Or, if you’d rather stay in, buy some new skincare products to indulge in at home. When you look and feel your best, you’ll feel more confident and energized to push through the holiday season.

Make a Plan

It’s never too early to start planning for the holidays. Ahead of the busy season, take some time to list out all of your responsibilities. Then, create a schedule for yourself, and set flexible deadlines to keep yourself on track. Break up activities, such as gift buying and home decorating, over a few weeks so you’re not scrambling to get everything done at once.

The holidays can get expensive, so it’s also good to prepare a budget ahead of time. Project the amount you anticipate spending on gifts, food, decor, and travel, and try your best to stick to your budget so you’re not overwhelmed when the bill arrives.

Get Your Kids Involved

Striking a balance between your family, career, and personal responsibilities is a task for a super mom. When you’re running around trying to get everything done, you may feel a strong sense of mom guilt. However, your responsibilities don’t necessarily have to take you away from your kids.

Consider involving your children in holiday activities, such as gift wrapping, decorating, cooking, and cleaning. This will give you peace of mind in knowing you’re spending quality time with your kids while also accomplishing tasks around the house.

Ask for Help

You may not feel comfortable admitting you need help, but doing so will help take some of the weight off of your shoulders. All moms need a break at some point, and your social network of support will help reassure you of that.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, consider delegating some responsibilities to your partner or a close family member or friend. Free up some time for yourself to relax and decompress, and remember that you can always return the favor when things have settled down. Asking for help not only allows you to enjoy the holiday season but also makes others feel good, too.

Give Yourself A Break

You don’t need to throw the perfect family gathering, buy the best gifts, or attend every holiday party to have a joyful holiday season. Remember, you can’t be two places at once, and you can’t expect to do it all on your own.

Don’t beat yourself up if things don’t go as planned. Instead, acknowledge what went well and cherish the memories you’ve made. Things will likely settle down come January 2nd, so go easy on yourself, and don’t sweat the small stuff.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BeautyHealth

8 Ways To Protect Your Skin During Cold Weather

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

Cold weather can leave your skin feeling dry, rough, itchy and prone to damage. So how do you and your skin survive the cold temperature, low humidity, and high wind? We’ve got you covered.

With just a few simple dermatologist recommended steps, you can guard your skin during the cold weather. Read on to learn more.

Moisturize Often

Cold weather can strip your skin of moisture. Lack of hydration can lead to dry skin and makes it susceptible to premature aging. Step up your moisturizer or moisturize your skin often to lock in the moisture.

Your skin’s outermost layer (stratum corneum) acts as a protective barrier [1]. It prevents water from escaping the skin and harmful bacteria from entering the skin. Water is essential in maintaining the strength of the barrier.

Moisturizers contain ingredients that help in water retention in the skin. Consider using a barrier repair moisturizer [2] that repairs the skin’s natural barrier. It has the property to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

Moisturizers come in the form of creams, lotions, gels and serums for different skin types. Know your skin first and stick to a moisturizer that suits your skin.

It is best to apply a moisturizer after cleansing. The lotion will lock all the water that is saturated after cleansing.

Using a hand cream after washing your hands in cold weather also helps keep your hands soft and moisturized.

Exercise With Caution

Exercise offers a ton of benefits for your skin. It flushes out toxins in the form of sweat, clears pores and increases blood circulation. However, while the weather is cold, consider working out indoors. During cold weather, air lacks humidity and getting exposed to such air damages your skin.

Take Warm Showers, Not Hot

It is tempting to take a hot shower in cold weather but did you know that hot water can strip the moisture of your skin. Hot showers can make your skin feel like a dry and withered leaf. Warm shower with a hydrating body wash can protect your skin from the harsh weather.

Don’t wash your hands with hot water. According to dermatologists, washing hands with cold water is as effective at removing germs as hot water.

Choose Gentle Products

Switch to gentle skincare products in cold weather. Avoid products that contain fragrances, sulfates, parabens, alcohol and other toxic ingredients.

Pick a cleanser that is free of harsh chemicals and pH balanced. Harsh cleansers tend to wash off the natural oils from your skin leaving it dry.

Use a moisturizer that suits your skin otherwise it can clog your pores.

We can’t stress enough on the benefits of sunscreen. Sun can have a damaging effect on the skin, ranging         from dark spots to patches to tan to wrinkles to skin cancer. Don’t skip your sunscreen in winter thinking that it’s only for the summers.  The sun’s rays in winter are not as strong as they are in the summers but your skin still needs to be shielded from the UV rays. Pick a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 for the cold weather [3].

In cold weather, under eye skin has a tendency to get even drier. The skin around the eyes is extremely thin and needs an eye cream that hydrates it to keep it supple.

Avoid Wearing Irritating Clothes

Since the skin in cold weather feels dry and sensitive already, make sure you don’t wear synthetic clothes that may irritate your skin further. Breathable cotton fabrics are a great option in cold weather.

You could layer up with sweaters and gloves for the hands to keep yourself warm. Change out of wet clothes to prevent itchy skin.

Use A Humidifier

Air lacks humidity when the weather is cold. Use a humidifier at home to increase the humidity in the air. This can prevent your skin from drying a lot

Limit Exfoliation 

Exfoliation is crucial to get rid of the dead skin cells but limit it during the cold weather.

Exfoliation helps blemished skin, clogged pores, pigmentation, and suntan.

Exfoliating shouldn’t be done more than once a week since over exfoliation can strip off the natural oils from the skin and disrupt your skin’s pH balance, potentially leaving it even drier. 

Eat Right And Stay Hydrated

Eat a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables to give your skin the required vitamins.

Fatty fish, avocado, walnuts, bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, green tea, dark chocolate are some of the many foods that are great for your skin.

We don’t feel thirsty in cold weather but our skin needs the same amount of hydration irrespective of the external environment. Make sure to drink at least three liters of water every day. You could include warm herbal teas during the day which also work as an alternative to caffeine.

Let us know how your skin feels after incorporating these steps in your routine during cold weather.

REFERENCES:

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513299/
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5849435/
  3. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun
  4. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002104.htm

Author Bio : 

Nisha is passionate about writing and loves to share her thoughts with the world. She is a regular contributor to skinkraft.com and a few other websites. She has written many articles on yoga, fitness, wellness, remedies, and beauty. She keeps herself updated by going through interesting blogs every day. This fuels her passion and motivates her to write appealing and engaging articles.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
DIYHoliday

20 DIY Christmas Gifts That People Will Actually Love

by Amber King
written by Amber King

I am a huge fan of DIY Christmas gifts. My husband and I despise spending more than five minutes at a mall during the holiday shopping season, and I never want gift giving to feel like an obligation. I like giving gifts that are thoughtful and personal. Anyone can pass out gift cards, but it’s a true friend that puts time and effort into a truly special gift. 

But there’s a long-standing problem with DIY gifts—more than one, actually. First, they have a bad reputation. I know I’m guilty of giving out at least a few DIY duds (sorry, mom and dad).  They can also be frustratingly time consuming. And when we’re already busy with a hectic holiday season, no one has time to spend hours upon hours on everyone on their list.  So for this list, I had two criteria: gifts need to be high-quality and something people would actually want, and they also need to be reasonably easy to put together. 

I scoured the Internet and put together this list of my favorite DIY Christmas gifts. Check them out and get crafty!

Home Decor

1. Starbucks Candle

Do you have a friend that wouldn’t survive without their daily trip to Starbucks? You can fuel that obsession in a creative way with a DIY Starbucks candle. Candle making isn’t as hard as it seems, and when your friend is finished burning the candle, they have a cute Starbucks mug to use all year-round. 

Tutorial: Down Redbud Drive

2. Stovetop Citrus Potpourri

One of the best things about the holiday season is the smell. Candles are a popular gift this time of year, but stovetop potpourri is a great way to mix it up. This DIY Christmas gift idea combines everything you need for a fresh-smelling home into a reusable glass jar. Your gift recipients just need to put it on the stove and enjoy the fresh scent!

Tutorial: Sheri Silver

3. Photo Coasters

This DIY Christmas gift will be something your friends and family will cherish for years. You’ll need a few supplies like ceramic tiles and a bottle of mod podge. You’ll also need to print out high-quality photos. These photo coasters take a few days to dry, but they’re not hard to make.

Tutorial: Cardstore

4. Wine Cork Vase

You’ve been collecting those corks all year, and now it’s time to put them to good use! This DIY flower vase is the perfect gift for friends that also enjoy a good cup of wine. Give the gift with flowers already inside to make it even better.

Tutorial: Design Improvised

5. Upcycled Throw Pillow

You’ll need to have some skills for this one, but making throw pillows is actually easier than you’d think. Find fabric from old clothes or the bargain bin at the store. 

Tutorial: Organized 31

6. Knit Pot Holders

You don’t need to be an expert knitter to make these simple knitted pot holders. They’re great projects for beginner knitters, and you can pass them out like candy to everyone on your list. Try to coordinate colors with your friends’ kitchens to make the gift extra thoughtful. 

Tutorial: Homey Oh My

7. Fleece Blanket

I absolutely love a good DIY fleece blanket. There are at least three in my living room, and I’ve already made them for all my friends and family members. They take a little bit of time, but they’re not hard. And you can personalize each blanket with printed fabric. It’s a great gift for the men on your list that aren’t easy to shop for.

Tutorial: Cutesy Crafts

Self Care

8. Terrazzo Style Slice Soaps

DIY Christmas gifts

https://fallfordiy.com/blog/2017/02/28/a-new-obsession-diy-terrazzo-style-slice-soaps/

DIY soaps are always a good idea for gift giving. They encourage self care, and they look especially pretty when wrapped up in ribbon and bows. Instead of your normal bar of homemade soap, try out these cute and creative terrazzo style slice soaps. 

Tutorial: Fall for DIY

9. Pumpkin Spice Lip Scrub

Lip scrub is like chap stick, but it’s way better. It moisturizes lips and removes dry skin that always comes with dry winter weather. This sweet-smelling DIY Christmas gift makes a great stocking stuffer.

Tutorial: Club Crafted

10. Lavender Bath Salts

Who doesn’t enjoy a relaxing bath? Those baths are even better when they come with the therapeutic properties of these DIY bath salts. Give someone the gift of self care with these easy-to-make and always-thoughtful bath salts. You can even customize them for each person on your list. 

Tutorial: My Cultured Palate 

Edible

11. Hot Chocolate on a Stick

This idea is perfect for all the chocolate lovers of the world. These cute little chocolate pops magically turn into decadent hot chocolate when you stir them into a mug of warm milk. It’s a creative gift idea that you can make in bulk for neighbors and family members. 

Tutorial: Eating Richly

12. Homemade Ice Cream

We all scream for homemade ice cream! This recipe is easy to make (no turning involved), and the seasonal flavor is sure to be a hit. Package your pints in cute cartons and add some ribbon for good measure. You’ll have to transport your gift in a cooler so it won’t melt, but it’ll be worth it. 

Tutorial: Country Living

13. Healthy No Bake Granola Bars

Christmas gift giving usually involves a lot of cookies and candies, but what about the people on your list that are serious about health or struggling to stick to a diet? Gifting them a plate full of sugary sweets might not be appreciated. But what they will appreciate is a gift that’s both delicious and healthy. 

Tutorial: Happy Kitchen 

14. Candied Pecans

Baskets of cookies are the go-to gift for neighbors, teachers, and friends, but your gift can stand out by going in a nuttier direction. Candied pecans are sweet, festive, and easy to make. Make a big batch and give them out to everyone on your list. 

Tutorial: The Rising Spoon

15. Coffee Mixers

Coffee is always a good gift idea, and you can make that morning cup o’ Joe extra special with these DIY coffee mixers. Hit up your local thrift store for some cool-looking old spoons, and add chocolate, nuts, coconut, peppermint, and anything else you think will pair well with coffee. When you put the spoon in the coffee, the chocolate will melt to make a really delicious holiday treat. 

Tutorial: Tatyana’s Everyday Food

Everything Else

16. Hand-Painted Tote

It’s not the tote itself that makes this project a great DIY Christmas gift (unless of course you’re skilled with a sewing machine), but the design you pick can be customized for everyone on your list. It’s an especially great gift for your kids to make. They can give them to teachers, grandparents, family members, and whoever else would appreciate an environmentally friendly and super cute shopping tote bag. Buy blank tote bags and use fabric paint for the design.

Tutorial: Adventures of a DIY Mom

17. Leather Bookmark

Need a gift for a book lover but don’t know what’s currently on their “to-read” list? You could go with a gift card to Barnes and Noble, but that’s not exactly personal. So why not pair that gift card with a cute handmade leather bookmark? They’ll think of you every time they get into a good book.

Tutorial: Making Manzanita

18. Hand Warmers

Homemade hand warmers are a super simple yet thoughtful DIY Christmas gift. You only need basic sewing skills, a few scraps of fabric, and some rice. Package your handmade gift in a cute little bag with a personalized note to make it extra special.

Tutorial: The Typical Mom

19. Flannel Infinity Scarf

This cute scarf looks like an in-depth DIY project, but it only takes 15 minutes. It’s cute, cozy, and your friends in winter climates will appreciate the extra warmth. They’ll be impressed that you made it yourself–and you don’t need to tell them how easy it was. 

Tutorial: Swoodson Says

20. Embroidery Hoop Ornaments

These easy DIY Christmas gifts are an opportunity to stretch your sewing muscles. You don’t need to be a pro at embroidery to make these cute little ornaments. There are super simple designs that are perfect for beginners and even kids. 

Tutorial: Swoodson Says

What are your favorite DIY Christmas gifts? Let us know in the comments!

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
FamilyFunHolidayKidsMotherhood

5 Steps in Planning a Road Trip with the Kids

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

Road trips are part of the fabric of American culture. A great, flexible and affordable way to see the country, many people favor long drives over air travel to get around. Of course, whilst road trips are fun and exciting some of the time, spending long hours and days cooped up in a car on the road can have its challenges. When you add the kids into the equation those challenges can amplify. However, with a little preparation and some ‘off-road’ thinking, you can anticipate and negate the problems commonly faced when you take your family on the road and maximize the fun. 

Packing and Preparation

Being well prepared is key for any long journey. Gone are the days where you and your partner could just throw a bag in the trunk, jump in the car and GO. With the kids in tow, a much greater degree of preparation is necessary. As you aren’t limited by airline luggage restrictions, packing doesn’t need to be as restrained as you’re used to. Depending on how long you’re going to be on the road you should aim to pack one appropriately sized bag per passenger. That way you can factor in all gear for all types of weather, and various types of footwear to suit any terrain, meaning you can enjoy all the sites and attractions along your way. Make sure you pack at least one or two in-car bags full of snacks, cleaning wipes, extra layers and emergency supplies (more on these later). Also, give your car a good service before you set out. 

Choosing Destinations

The key to a successful road trip with children is planning where you will end up each night. It’s important to remember that with kids you need to allow more time for everything – from packing up the car to visiting tourist attractions and stopping for restroom breaks. When choosing your nightly stopovers it may be a good idea to go for places that include breakfast so you can fuel your troops before you start – this will eliminate the need for an early stop and get you on your way more quickly. 

And of course, the big question is where you actually want to go – the Coasts are ever-popular choices, packed full of stunning nature, exciting cities and towns and classic destinations. Whether you’re discovering the gems of the East, like Niagra Falls or taking in the splendors of the Sonoma Valley on the West. Choose what you want to see and do, and leave enough time to see and do it – there is no point in rushing through amazing attractions just because you need to keep on schedule.  Getting the kids involved in the planning process is a great way for them to feel more involved, and make the days more goal-oriented – much better than being sat in the back seat feeling aimless for hours at a time. 

Fun and Games

And talking of long highway journeys, it’s important to remember that children have a much lower boredom threshold than adults. While you may be content to gaze at the passing scenery and listen to the gentle hum of the engine for hours at a time, the little passengers in the back will be getting increasingly restless. Have a selection of car-friendly games and activities planned out. In the mornings the kids are going to have much more energy, so games with lots of interaction are best (‘I spy with my little eye’, or other classic car games are great). In the afternoons the chances are that everyone (except, hopefully, the driver) will be getting a little drowsy, so more relaxed pursuits such as drawing, reading or watching movies on phones or tablets can work well. If you want to add a bit of road trip education into the mix then getting the kids to read the map or the GPS and give directions (probably best to supervise unless you want to end up lost) is a great way to get them involved. 

Emergencies

Back to being prepared. Make sure you have a well-stocked first-aid kit – bandages, plasters, gauze, antiseptic, treatments for poison oak or any of nature’s other miseries are all a must – and travel sickness treatment to alleviate everyone’s suffering. Make sure you take all medications for the whole family and keep them somewhere secure where only the adults can access. Keep track of where you are and make sure you have all the appropriate emergency numbers (the local coastguard if you’re by the sea, or the forest rangers if you’re in the wilderness, for example). As with any adventure – hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. 

Snacks and Meals

It’s almost a tradition to hit the junk food when you’re on a road trip. Outlets seem to be placed every few miles along the way, and it’s quick and easy. However, you don’t really want your kids eating fast food constantly, so planning healthy alternatives to munch on for the trip is essential. Choose fruits that aren’t too sticky and messy, such as apples and pears, and make sure you have a selection of nuts to nibble at. Sandwiches will replace burgers and hotdogs easily enough, and are easier on the wallet as well as the waistline. 

The key to a successful road trip is, at the end of the day, enjoyment. However, preparation ahead of time, and the ability to quickly address your little troopers’ needs, whether they be appetite, health, boredom related or anything else will mean less on-the-road stress and more road trip fun. For all of you. 

About the Author

Bethany Seton is a real estate agent from Melbourne. For the last two years, she decided to leave her office job and follow her passion for writing and traveling. Currently, she travels with her laptop and writes for various blogs, hoping one day she will gather all the experience she gets in one book.

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
HolidayLifestyleTravel

Style Tricks: What to Pack for a Weekend Getaway

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

For some people, packing for a weekend getaway is something they do with ease, but for the majority of us, this simply isn’t the case. Even though we are aware that we only need to bring a https://realisationpar.com/shop/weekend’s worth of clothes and shoes, many of us tend to get carried away and either overpack, and this is especially true for those of us who wait until the last minute to start packing their bags and then do it in a hurry. To help you pack smarter, quicker, and lighter, we’re sharing a list of essentials you should definitely bring for your weekend getaway.

A pair of basic denim jeans you can dress up and down

An essential in every capsule suitcase, a pair of plain, basic denim jeans can be used to create a range of outfits. A pair of jeans in a classic, timeless hue can be mixed and matched with virtually anything, and their versatility allows them to be worn for many occasions. A nifty transitional piece, denim jeans can easily be taken from a daytime to a nighttime outfit with the addition of elegant accessories. During the daytime, they can be worn with flat shoes and a plain tee, and when the sun goes down, they can be paired with cute heels, a feminine top, and statement jewelry to get a chic outfit for a night out.

A jacket that can be worn with multiple outfits

Another important item in a weekend travel bag, a versatile jacket that can be restyled and worn with multiple outfits is going to save a lot of space in your suitcase. Depending on the weather and season of the year, pack a jacket you can rock with different shirts – it’s best to stick within a neutral color palette and go with hues like beige, gray, black, and tan. If it’s cold, a cozy, camel coat may be the perfect garment to pack, but if it happens to be warm and sunny, you should bring a versatile denim jacket. As for autumn and spring, a trench coat or a quality leather jacket in a neutral color will do the trick.

A printed dress as a statement piece

While basic, neutral pieces are a must on every weekend packing list, it’s advisable to bring at least one or two statement pieces that call for attention. Not one garment can make a woman feel more in touch with her feminine nature than a chic, fitted dress. A beautiful Realisation Par dress can make a woman feel empowered and take any outfit from basic to chic in an instant. Be sure to pack at least one statement dress and maybe a skirt that you can wear during the day and turn it into a nighttime outfit by swapping out the accessories and changing the tone of the dress.

Lightweight tops you can layer

While it might be tempting to pack sweaters to keep you cozy during the winter, chances are, they’re going to overtake your suitcase, leaving no space for some other essentials. It’s better to pack several shirts you can layer, and combine them with a lightweight jacket or a simple coat. If it happens to be warm, wear an unbuttoned denim top paired with a simple tee or wear it as a shirt on its own. If you simply can’t afford not to bring your favorite knit, winter sweater for your weekendgetaway, consider wearing it while you’re traveling. This will help save space in your suitcase and keep your travel bag light, meaning you won’t be paying extra for luggage.

Neutral shoes that match all your outfit combinations

Another basic element on your weekend packing list, shoes can be used to tie the whole outfit together or support the look without attracting too much attention. When traveling, comfort is king, so it’s best to equip your suitcase with neutral, cozy shoes that you can match with all your outfits. Bring a pair you can wear while walking and sightseeing (sneakers or ballerina flats), one pair you can wear for any special activities you had in mind, and then one pair of shoes that will spice up your outfits and dress them up (heels or sandals). If the weather’s changing, be sure to pack a pair of shoes that accommodate those weather conditions (boots or flip-flops).

Women are notoriously known for bringing overflowing suitcases when traveling, even when it’s just for a couple of days. It’s high time females set the record straight and stop getting all the bad rap about overpacking. By mindfully organizing your travel bag and being strict with your outfit choices, you can master the art of packing light and make sure you’re all set for your weekend break.

About the Author

Mia Taylor is  33 year old blogger who writes about beauty, fashion and travel. She had always been passionate about fashion and over time she had developed a style of her own.  Mia loves  to mix and match and get inspire girls with her advice about outfit and accessories.  She loves telling a story about her travels, providing beauty tips with readers.

Twitter

1 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
DesignDIYHumor

5 Mini Renovations You Can Plan (Or Do!) Yourself

by Guest Contributor
written by Guest Contributor

“Home renovation” usually brings to mind an arduous process involving thousands of dollars’ worth of construction, but that doesn’t always have to be the case. You might be surprised at how easy it can be to give your house a makeover with a bit of planning and the right expertise. There are a few small renovations you can plot and carry out yourself that’ll make your house worthy of any A&E Channel special you can think of, and we’ve picked 5 of the best of them just for you at Life As Mama!

Light Up Your Life

LED lights are a fantastic way to bring strong, long-lasting lighting into your house while seriously cutting down on your energy bills. And with LEDs becoming more popular as time goes on, there are an increasing number of bulb and fixture styles to work with any home aesthetic. A filament antique LED bulb is a great choice for taking advantage of the modernity of LED lights while also retaining a cozy atmosphere for any living room or bedroom.

 The Whole Shooting Match

The outside of your house is the first thing guests (or even potential buyers) are going to notice, so making a positive first impression with your home’s exterior is crucial. Investing in some affordable outdoor remodeling won’t just give you a nicer driveway or a more even backyard surface for your evening cocktail parties; it’ll likely raise the value of your house as well. This is one area where spending a little in the short term can end up paying off big in the long run.

Indoor Style in Outdoor Spaces

Any house can benefit from the aesthetics of a well-done tiling job, and a deck or jacuzzi can benefit from some smart tiling practices as much as the bathroom or kitchen can. You don’t need a lot of heavy equipment to do some tiling yourself: often it’s as simple as having a lot of tile glue and a little bit of patience. It’s easier than you think to get all the tools and resources you need to make a DIY tiling project that’s as simple to accomplish as it will be beautiful to look at when it’s finished. That said, when it comes to outdoor remodeling, sometimes you need…

Get Your Mind Into the Gutter

Having clean gutters is important not only for having the outside of your house look nice, but for making sure the drainage is working safely as well. Much of the time this can be done with as little as a rake and a stepladder. Cleaning your gutters of leaves and other detritus is generally a pretty simple process, but if you don’t feel like hoisting yourself up to the roof there are cleaning services that provide gutter maintenance, too.

 Secure Your Pool

Pool safety is an undervalued but incredibly important part of any home that has an outdoor swimming area; many pool safety supplies don’t just make your yard safer, they improve the aesthetics of your pool by protecting it from the elements too. A startlingly high percentage of household injuries and even deaths take place in or near the pool, so taking poolside safety seriously is no laughing matter. AquaSafe Unlimited Las Vegas sells and installs pool covers that are a great way to make sure that no one takes an unexpected dip, and that leaves and rainwater stays out as well.

Make Your Voice Heard

Are there any other little ways you’ve managed to give your house a mini-makeover that you’d like to share with us and our readers? Leave us a comment below and tell us the best ways you’ve found to shape up your home with ease! If you need help with easy ways to add a little magic to particular parts of the house, check out our guides to designing your kitchen and bringing some life to your home’s entryway.  And remember to keep up with our blog at Life As Mama for all the best tips to make motherhood as simple and fun as it can be.

About the Author

Katie Tejada is a writer, editor, and former HR professional. She enjoys writing about events, travel, specializing in home goods, DIY crafts, and gifts decorating trends, but also covers developments in HR, business communication, recruiting, real estate, finance, law, and investing.

 

 

 

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BeautyBeauty & Style

6 Tips to Becoming Successful in the Beauty Industry

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

The beauty industry is among the hottest ones out there right now with evolving trends, new methods, and pioneering techniques. As a mom intending to start her own business, this is the best career path you can choose. After all, you spend a great deal of time nurturing your children and taking care of the family. So caring for other people comes naturally to you and with lots of experience.

However, the inner strength is only a fuel that will help you take a leap into this new business endeavor. You will need to prepare for the ups and downs, as well as to build your own brand and clientele from scratch. And with these tips to be successful in the beauty industry, you can easily reach professional achievement while being an incredible mother at the same time.

become successful in beauty blogging

1.   Create a business plan

Everything starts with a plan. As a mom, you are used to making lists and organizing things that will come pretty handy when starting your beauty business. Taking care of the family budget has taught you how to organize your funds which will help with calculating your budget.

When creating a business plan concentrate on all the things you will need like space to work in, products, equipment, and furnishing. Also, don’t forget expenses for defining your brand, social media campaign and employees, as well as bills for services like electricity and the internet. This may sound like too much right from the start, but will actually help you determine your budget and seek out loans in time.

2.   Set your goals

While running a successful business is the main goal, getting there will take several smaller ones. Goals are essential parts of the business plans since they allow you to follow your progress and evaluate your steps. Use a corkboard or planner to divide your goals into milestones and start fulfilling one by one by setting deadlines and activities.

Since starting something from scratch is always challenging, surround yourself with inspiration and support from your loved ones. If you fail to reach a milestone, take a break and reflect on what led to that. And then start all over again. In business, just like in life, the best results come from learning on mistakes and constantly improving yourself.

3.   Define your brand

Defining a brand starts early on and consists of several aspects. You need to visualize your business by coming up with a logo and interior design of your salon. Also, you should think about uniforms and colors you want to dominate the space. All these elements will help you create an image on the market making it essential to your brand.

But most importantly, try to find ways to be distinguishable from the competition. Prices, style, and service will help you build a better brand that will create satisfied and loyal clients.

woman working beauty blogger

4.   Build your social media campaign

It’s impossible to be successful without a good social media campaign. It may sound like something that will take a lot of your time, but actually, you will enjoy doing it. As a mom, you will not only attract attention but also serve as inspiration for others to follow in your footsteps. Show your following how dedicated you are to your business and how much you love what you do. That will tell them you appreciate them as well and want to provide them with the best service.

Use photos and witty captions to create a welcoming atmosphere even before your clients come to your salon. Also, know where to find your target audience and how to charm them. And as time goes by, you will create brand ambassadors that will promote your services on their profiles.  

5.   Get professional training

Clients seek your services because they trust you to give them the best results. This is something you can do only through proper education at the beauty therapy academy and makeup courses. Starting with the basics may sound tedious, but it will help you expand your knowledge and focus your area of expertise later on.

Moreover, you will learn how to properly use the equipment and products to the satisfaction of your clients. Building your reputation on extensive knowledge and education is the key to create loyal customers and a trustworthy brand.

6.   Follow the hottest trends

Beauty treatments and makeup styles change so you need to keep up with all the innovations and hottest trends. You can do this by subscribing to magazines, attending lectures, following influencers and fashion icons. However, it’s always wise to keep an eye on your competition and see how they deal with the newest developments in the beauty industry. This way you will stay on top of the global trends and be able to offer the highest quality of service to your clients.

Final thoughts

Organizing the home and taking care of the family is a demanding job and an excellent experience to use when starting your own business. Being successful in the beauty industry requires a lot of dedication and proper knowledge, but all the hard work will pay off in the end. While being a mother is the priority, you can still have a successful business and feel accomplished. Especially when your family is there to support you along the way. 

About the Author

Nina is a lifestyle blogger, yoga aficionado and a travel enthusiast with a distinctive taste for home decor. She’s passionate about learning new things and sharing meaningful ideas. In her free time, she loves to design clothes and furniture. If you wanna see what she’s up to you can find her on twitter

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
autumn make up tips beauty fall
BeautyBeauty & Style

7 Gorgeous Autumn Make-Up Tips

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

Regardless of if you’re from Australia or America, Autumn is the most stylish month. Leaves turn colours and start to fall, the temperatures drop, yet everything seems warmer due to the colours. You’re no longer limited to tank tops and shorts when it comes to fashion, as the weather is comfortable enough for many stylish pieces of clothing.

Your spanking new outfit should be accompanied by the right Autumn make-up look. There’s nothing that spells fashionista more than fresh Autumn make-up that complements the whole ambience. If you’re not sure what colours and techniques to use this Autumn to make your make-up pop, feel free to stick around.

woman in autumn makeup tutorial tips

1. Just foundation

This fall, dare to be more natural. The colours around you will already contribute to the dramatic season, so why should your makeup? Instead of going for elaborate and overdone looks, aim for simplicity. Autumn can set you free and show you a you that you didn’t even know existed.

Applying just foundation to your face gives you the confidence you need to nail the day ahead without wasting your time on a long makeup routine. Fresh skin will always be in style, especially when everything around you seems to be falling asleep. You can show off your complexion in the soft Autumn sun easier than ever.

Use a radiance-boosting foundation formula so that your skin can shine through it. If you’re feeling extra daring, you can even only use coverage where it’s needed. With solid blending and a little patience, your skin will only show off your beauty.

2. Making red lips casual

We’re all used to the classic red lip look that’s so dramatic it can only be pulled off by movie stars or on special occasions. This fall, dare to make your red lipstick more casual by pairing with simple makeup. The rest of your face doesn’t need to be polished at all if you want a more casual red lip look instead of the classic and dramatic one.

This look can also be used to awaken and complement other low-key makeup on your face. For example, it goes best with a little smudgy eyeliner to accompany it. Though you could wear this look on any occasion, it’s best for those long office days when the rain won’t stop falling and you want to feel more beautiful. As well as that, it goes best with the after-work drinks you’ll inevitably get after such a long and rainy day.

3. Subtle smokey eyes

We’re all familiar with the dramatic smokey eye, fit for all grand occasions. If you want a bit of drama in your everyday life but feel that the traditional smokey eye would simply be too much, you could always embrace the subtle smokey eyes trend. This is a perfect daytime look that doesn’t require a lot of work but gives the results you were looking for.

All you have to do is add a touch of shimmer to the inner corners of your eyes. Use a gold or silver shadow. For this to truly be a daytime look, make sure to keep the rest of your makeup simple. Autumn is all about choosing a focal point that will carry the whole look. Less truly is more, and you’ll get to see exactly why that’s true when you pair your new makeup look with the fashionable Autumn outfit you’ve come up with.

4. Natural eyebrows

Eyebrows have been the focal point of makeup trends for a while now, and this fall, you should definitely put your brows front and centre. Natural-looking brows are the perfect look for Autumn 2019, as this is the year where we embrace our own eyebrows instead of making them into something they’re not. Even if you don’t have enviable eyebrows, embrace them- they’re yours!

All this makeup look requires is for you to brush up your brows with a spoolie then will in the sparse spots with a brow pencil. Make sure to use small and feathery strokes. This way, you’ll only be enhancing the natural beauty of your brows instead of completely making them into something else. It’s a quick look that you can complete every morning before you head out.

If you don’t feel like doing the rest of your makeup- you don’t have to. The natural brow look works perfectly well by itself, making it ideal for those days when you just don’t have the time or the energy do devote yourself to your makeup.

woman fall make up tips

5. Accents

Adding accents to your look is always a good Autumn choice. When it comes to this season in particular, it’s best to use the mauve shade. It’s more dramatic than the summery shades yet it doesn’t have the heft of deep fall tones. Mauve is also one of those shades that looks good on everybody, regardless of skin tone.

If you want to experiment with mauve, you should go crazy with it. Instead of just applying it to your lips, cheeks or eyes, consider wearing it on all three features. Not only will this complete the look wonderfully, but it will also flatter your face more. As well as that, you’ll have a more formal yet casual fall look suitable for every occasion.

6. Achieve a rosy glow

A rosy glow is a look that never goes out of style, regardless of what time of year it is. The look is inspired by the flush you get from the chilly Autumn air. It’s especially popular in Australia where the air isn’t that cold even when Autumn knocks on the door. Instead, Aussie girls get to feel the magic of Autumn by adding a touch of extra blush along the cheekbones. For a more natural look, blend out toward the temples.

This look is also perfect from drawing away attention from your nose. In fact, some Aussie girls would argue that the technique works better than the best rhinoplasty in Sydney. It’s an easy everyday look, it makes you look cuter, it allows you to feel the spirit of Autumn, and it draws away attention from your nose while still looking natural.

7. Add some colour

Just because it’s autumn doesn’t mean that you have to stick to only the tried and tested fall colours. Instead of constantly opting for the basic colours that make you feel safe, why not experiment a little? Fall might be the time of year when nature starts falling asleep, but it’s also the time of year when society starts blossoming.

You should add some unexpected colour to your eyes and make your whole daily look pop. Instead of using black liner, why not use blue? This could easily be the focal point of your look, meaning that you don’t have to overdo the rest of your makeup. Simple natural lip gloss and a bit of mascara will work just fine. Because you’re only overstepping the rules of subtlety a little, this is a perfect day look for those days where you want to feel extra pretty. It could also be a great look for a casual drink with friends.

Conclusion

As you can see, it’s not impossible getting that Autumn make-up look you desire. The way you do your make-up will greatly affect your mood and the rest of your outfit. In that spirit, you should really put in some effort, as the results will definitely be worth it. Becoming the muse of a whole spectacular season like Autumn isn’t easy, but it’s definitely possible with the right make-up technique and colours.

About the Author

Mia Johnson is a writer with a ten-year-long career in journalism. She has written extensively about health, fitness, and lifestyle. A native to Melbourne, she now lives in Sydney with her 3 dogs where she spends her days writing and taking care of her 900 square feet garden.”

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
DIYParty

5 Fun And Spooky Ways To Celebrate Halloween At Home

by Guest Contributor
written by Guest Contributor

Halloween is just around the corner and if everyone in your family is a huge fanatic, you definitely already have plans. However, if you’re not sure what to do yet but you know you will be at home, you still have plenty of options. All of the suggestions below are super fun for a family to do together, so take a look.

Decorate the house in a spooky manner

Decorating your home so that it looks chilling from both the outside and inside is a great way to spend time with your little ones and luckily, there are so many ways to approach this activity. For starters, you can simply purchase some skeletons and cobwebs from a local store and put them around the house. Then, you can create your own decorations from paper or try spray painting some spooky shapes onto your walls and doors. Maybe you’d like some creepy lighting as well, so look for some LED candles that will not pose a danger to your kids and home. Last but not least, probably the most interesting activity when it comes to decorating during Halloween – pumpkin carving. You can visit a pumpkin patch and select a few pieces that you like. Let your children choose the design or look online for some interesting ones and get carving. These tools are quite sharp so it’s best not to let your kids use them.

Bake delicious and eerie treats

If decorating is not something that interests you, there are other activities that might be the right fit. For example, if you love baking with your kids, you can modify some of your recipes to fit the Halloween aesthetic or simply look online to find some interesting suggestions. The good thing here is that you can make all sorts of spooky meals, from lunches to dessert and drinks. For snacking, you can consider some pigs in a blanket in the form of dough twisted around hot dogs so that it resembles mummies. From red velvet cupcakes that look bloody to green frosting that is simply eerie, you can do whatever your kids would like.

Make cute but scary costumes together

Even if you’re not going trick-or-treating, that doesn’t mean that your kids don’t want to dress up, especially if you’re throwing a Halloween party. Don’t be surprised if they want something completely unique that came from their imagination. While you should be proud of their creativity, it might also be very hard to find a costume that matches their wishes – so, get ready to do some sewing and hot-gluing. Do your absolute best to meet their demands and make sure to take a lot of photos afterwards.

With all this effort, though, you might not have enough time to dedicate to your own costume and rest assured that your kid will expect you to dress up as well. In order to greet any trick-or-treaters in true fashion, look for some interesting couture dresses for hire and easily turn into a creepy Halloween host.

Opt for some chilling entertainment

Seeing as how you’re staying at home, why not turn this evening into a spooky movie marathon? You can watch all the classics, from Beetlejuice and The Addams Family to Hocus Pocus and Casper. On the other hand, if you have teenagers and they would like something creepier, you can also put on Scream or Halloween. You can also go for some newer releases like Get Out, What We Do in the Shadows and A Quiet Place. Alternatively, you can play some scary video games like Silent Hill, Dead by Daylight, Outlast and Pathologic, for example. Finally, you can also choose to just tell some spooky stories around the fire pit in your yard. Of course, if your kids are too young, don’t go overboard.

Organize a creepy scavenger hunt

Just because you’re not going anywhere doesn’t mean that you can’t have friends over. You can invite your own friends or your kids’ friends and host a scavenger hunt in your yard. Write some spooky instructions and send the little ones on a hunt. Hide various Halloween treats around the space and let them have fun.

Conclusion

Halloween is always fun, regardless of whether you stay at home, go trick-or-treating or to some sort of event. The most important thing is to have a good time with your loved ones.

About the Author

Emma Williams is an Australian writer with a master’s degree in business administration, who has a passion for anything lifestyle and design related. She spends most of her time redecorating and participating in house projects. As a great nature lover, her biggest pleasure is spending time in a small cottage by the river. Find her on Twitter @ https://twitter.com/EmmaWilliams204

 

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts