Actually my phone was hacked, not me.
On Friday morning, I received a text from a number I didn't recognize. It just read "12", so I deleted it. Then they texted again and it simply read "Mom" which I also deleted. Not a minute later, another text saying "Mom, you okay?". At that I thought, this just a kid trying to reach their mom and got the wrong number. So...I texted back "wrong number".
That's when all h#ll broke loose. They texted back some long string of numbers. Then my youngest got a text message from every one of her contacts (luckily it was only 4) and my hubby got a text from one of his contacts.
Somehow this loser got my contacts and who knows what else. I called hubby on our land line and told him to delete all texts from me or his contacts today. Just call the people back don't text them.
Then I called my cell phone service provider, Sprint. After a lot of automated questions, I reached a really nice lady. She told me they couldn't track the person because all the texts were sent from my cell phone number to my cell phone number. Not sure how they do that.
The Sprint rep told me I needed to reset my phone back to factory settings. Which basically deletes everything (photos, contact info, apps, etc.).
So I've learned a couple things that I thought I would share with you all.
Use a Password
If your phone offers this option definitely use it. Make it as random as possible. Use letters, numbers, capitals and symbols if you are able.
Download a Security App
You wouldn't think twice of downloading a security program for your computer, but not everyone puts one on their smart phone. Just like hackers try to get into your computer they also try to access your phone info. Face it, you probably access all the same programs. Go to your app store on your phone and download Norton or AVG.
Never Checking Banking Info On Your Smart Phone
If you need to know banking info, simply call the phone number on the back of your ATM card. Free Wi-fi locations are not safe and anyone can access all your info if you don't have security for your phone.
Back Up Regularly
If you have precious photos or loads of music on your phone be sure to back that information up regularly. iCloud is nice, but if your phone is hacked that information could be tainted or you may not be able to access it. Every once in a while, back up to computer or flash drive.
Hopefully this helps some of you. It's information I wish I knew ahead of time. Learn from my mistakes before it happens to you.
Showing posts with label stress. Show all posts
Showing posts with label stress. Show all posts
Monday, January 06, 2014
Thursday, November 21, 2013
10 Empowering Tips to Get You Through the Holidays
Sorry I'm a bit under the weather today, so I have arranged for a guest post for today. Hope you all have a wonderful day and I'll be back tomorrow with the Freebies on Friday post.
10 Empowering Tips to Get You Through the Holidays
By Amy Sherman
Empowerment is one of those words that's often tossed around, but not many people know what it really means. Consider empowerment to be an individual process, a journey or path you take in order to achieve desires and fulfillment.
During the holidays, it's especially important to feel empowered so you make healthy choices and preserve your sense of personal power.
The holiday season can be a very special, wonderful time if you maintain who you are by not compromising your values or integrity. Here are some effective tips to help you do this:
1. Know that your holiday does not have to be based on the Hollywood image of perfection. Be sure your expectations are realistic and be honest with yourself about what you can and cannot do during the season.
2. Take a mental, physical and emotional break every once in a while so you can enjoy the festivities and feel revitalized. You need to recoup and recharge, so give yourself some quiet time. Escape to a room, take a ride, or walk around the neighborhood. Whatever you do, you're doing it because it will make a significant difference in your outlook when you return. It is very empowering to know you can decide HOW you feel, no matter what the circumstances.
3. Don't try to do everything alone. Get everyone to help by breaking down the tasks so that things become more manageable for you. Try not to control or get involved in how they "do things" so that there's less pressure on you.
4. Holiday time is associated with family togetherness. If the dynamic of your family changed because of strained relations, fragmentation, or death, you may have to create a new tradition that will redefine your family shared time and give you new, more positive memories.
5. Your sense of humor is very important. Use humor to relieve your stress. So, look at the lighter side of things and laugh, joke and be silly. Remember to not take yourself or the situation too seriously. That will only upset your mood and compromise your peace and harmony. Laugh and you'll feel much better.
6. Stop complaining or falling into patterns of criticism, defensiveness and even withdrawal. If you must complain, complain constructively, focusing on resolution and compromise. Your intent is not to hurt anybody on purpose, but to express yourself so your feelings are understood. Be sure your communication is clear and concise and not focused on blame.
7. Refuse to be a prisoner of other people's expectations. You can do less and still feel good about what you've done.
8. Be grateful for all you do have during the holidays. No matter how annoying, anxious or dissatisfied you are with things, make your holiday experience as pleasant as possible. It's in your own best interest to experience a joyful, not dreadful holiday.
9. Get rid of your desire to change people (friends/family). Acceptance is the only way to go so you won't feel frustrated. Look at those people who need "help", not as projects, but as characters in a movie. However, their lives turn out is under their direction.
10. Plan on making the holiday great. Use words like, "best," "terrific," "wonderful" to describe how you'd like your holiday season to be. Visualize yourself feeling relaxed and being appreciated. By pre-programming how you'd like it to be, you are setting the stage for it to happen. Then sit back and enjoy the festivities.
The holiday season brings together families and friends at a time when thoughts and deeds are focused on charity and good will. Through enjoyment, affection and an open heart, your holiday can be all you hope it to be and much more!
Amy Sherman, LMHC, is a licensed mental health counselor in private practice. She is the author of "Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer's Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life." Visit http://www.yourbabyboomersnetwork.com and receive a Special Report on Overcoming Adversity when you sign up for the free eNewsletter. Amy can be reached at 561-281-2975.
Article Source: 10 Empowering Tips to Get You Through the Holidays
10 Empowering Tips to Get You Through the Holidays
By Amy Sherman
Empowerment is one of those words that's often tossed around, but not many people know what it really means. Consider empowerment to be an individual process, a journey or path you take in order to achieve desires and fulfillment.
During the holidays, it's especially important to feel empowered so you make healthy choices and preserve your sense of personal power.
The holiday season can be a very special, wonderful time if you maintain who you are by not compromising your values or integrity. Here are some effective tips to help you do this:
1. Know that your holiday does not have to be based on the Hollywood image of perfection. Be sure your expectations are realistic and be honest with yourself about what you can and cannot do during the season.
2. Take a mental, physical and emotional break every once in a while so you can enjoy the festivities and feel revitalized. You need to recoup and recharge, so give yourself some quiet time. Escape to a room, take a ride, or walk around the neighborhood. Whatever you do, you're doing it because it will make a significant difference in your outlook when you return. It is very empowering to know you can decide HOW you feel, no matter what the circumstances.
3. Don't try to do everything alone. Get everyone to help by breaking down the tasks so that things become more manageable for you. Try not to control or get involved in how they "do things" so that there's less pressure on you.
4. Holiday time is associated with family togetherness. If the dynamic of your family changed because of strained relations, fragmentation, or death, you may have to create a new tradition that will redefine your family shared time and give you new, more positive memories.
5. Your sense of humor is very important. Use humor to relieve your stress. So, look at the lighter side of things and laugh, joke and be silly. Remember to not take yourself or the situation too seriously. That will only upset your mood and compromise your peace and harmony. Laugh and you'll feel much better.
6. Stop complaining or falling into patterns of criticism, defensiveness and even withdrawal. If you must complain, complain constructively, focusing on resolution and compromise. Your intent is not to hurt anybody on purpose, but to express yourself so your feelings are understood. Be sure your communication is clear and concise and not focused on blame.
7. Refuse to be a prisoner of other people's expectations. You can do less and still feel good about what you've done.
8. Be grateful for all you do have during the holidays. No matter how annoying, anxious or dissatisfied you are with things, make your holiday experience as pleasant as possible. It's in your own best interest to experience a joyful, not dreadful holiday.
9. Get rid of your desire to change people (friends/family). Acceptance is the only way to go so you won't feel frustrated. Look at those people who need "help", not as projects, but as characters in a movie. However, their lives turn out is under their direction.
10. Plan on making the holiday great. Use words like, "best," "terrific," "wonderful" to describe how you'd like your holiday season to be. Visualize yourself feeling relaxed and being appreciated. By pre-programming how you'd like it to be, you are setting the stage for it to happen. Then sit back and enjoy the festivities.
The holiday season brings together families and friends at a time when thoughts and deeds are focused on charity and good will. Through enjoyment, affection and an open heart, your holiday can be all you hope it to be and much more!
Amy Sherman, LMHC, is a licensed mental health counselor in private practice. She is the author of "Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer's Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life." Visit http://www.yourbabyboomersnetwork.com and receive a Special Report on Overcoming Adversity when you sign up for the free eNewsletter. Amy can be reached at 561-281-2975.
Article Source: 10 Empowering Tips to Get You Through the Holidays
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
What Scares You???
Each year my aunt and her family have an annual hide-n-scare party. They invite over their friends after dark, black out all the windows, turn off all lights and play hide and seek. The really scary part is they have all kinds of spooky stuff hidden and out in the open for them to find. Stuff like clowns, dolls (Chucky), bowls of spaghetti noodles (worms) and lots more. Believe me when you can't see where you are going your imagination can run wild. Plus, there are people jumping out at you. To top off the evening they would go for a ride in the back of a hearse through a cemetery. Crazy right!!!
While that may be fun for some older kids and adults, little kids can get really scared, especially at night. They can have thoughts of the boogie monster under their bed or in their closet, people coming to kidnap them, and even animals wanting to eat them.
Halloween can really scare kids. It's not all trick or treating and candy. Some kids are frightened of people in costume and masks.
Here are some ways I've helped my kids get over their fears of Halloween and other scary stuff in life.
1. Have my kids try on dress ups, costumes, hats and masks.
This worked for my kids, but obviously won't work for everyone. My kids learned that they can dress up in a costume and soon it clicked that it's not really a monster walking around. There is just another person inside that costume.
My oldest decided she wanted to be the Staypuff Marshmallow Man last year for Halloween and she noticed it made the little kids afraid. To help them she would casually slip her hood off when she noticed they were afraid and sometimes say "Hi".
2. Put a small lock on the outside of the closet door.
My son was really afraid of a monster in his closet. After nights and nights of checking the closet and showing him that there wasn't anything unusual in there, I decided I was going to put a small lock on the outside of the door. The lock was similar to the type on public restrooms. It allowed him to make sure nothing could get out of the closet and get him.
3. Remove the bed skirt.
For that short period of time when they are nervous about something under their bed I would remove the bed skirt. Then they could clearly see underneath. We also stored toys under the bed in boxes, so they actually associated under the bed with fun and toys. You could also run a small rope light under the bed just to brighten it up showing them that there aren't any monsters hiding there.
4. Limit the scary images.
This is obvious but I don't them to watch scary movies. If my hubby wants to watch something scary I take the kids to play in another room, he watches it in another room or after the kids are in bed for the night.
Feel free to share the ways you help you kids with their fears.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Home Yoga Workouts Help Reduce A Mom's Stress
Home Yoga Workouts Help Reduce A Mom's Stress
By Pascale Vandenbroucke
If you are like many moms, your day never seems to be over. When your stress levels are climbing and you just can't seem to catch a break, try turning to a few calming exercise videos. Exercise gets your blood pumping and puts your muscles to good use, allowing your body and mind to focus on something other than the stressful situations that are getting you down.
Yoga is ideal for exercising at home because it requires little to no specialized equipment, there are plenty of online exercise videos with dozens of different moves to try, and can be done in almost any room. The beauty of yoga routines is that they can be as long or as short as you need them to be, and many exercise videos feature combinations of moves that work specific areas of the body which is something many women appreciate. By combining any of the following moves you can easily devise your own home yoga workouts! Simply select a move / pose, hold it for about 10 seconds, and release. You can then begin your next move or end your workout, it's entirely up to you!
Five yoga poses to help reduce a mom's stress
1) The Arms Overhead Position - Sit or kneel on the floor. Next, slowly lift your arms over your head and lace your fingers together once your arms are fully extended. For maximum benefit, try to keep your spine as straight as possible.
2) The Arms in Front Position - Similar to the Arms Overhead position, make sure that you are seated or kneeling with your arms fully extended and your fingers laced together. Instead of having your arms extended above your head however, in this position you should lean forward, gently rounding your spine. You should feel the muscles between your shoulder blades working with this one!
3) The Reclining Cobbler Position - Find a small cushion or roll up a throw blanket for use with this position. Lay back with your cushion / blanket positioned vertically, supporting your head and shoulders. Put your feet together with the soles touching and try to touch the floor with your knees.
4) The Child's Position - Kneel down and rest with your bottom against your heels. Slowly lean forward until your forearms are resting on the floor. Elongate your neck, take a deep breath, and exhale. You can use your cushion / blanket roll to support your upper body during this exercise if needed.
5) The Supported Bridge Position - Place your cushion / blanket on the floor and lay down on top of it with it supporting your hips. Arch your back gently, feeling the muscles in your hips and abdomen engage. Hold this position as long as you can, and then relax.
You can find moves like these and many more in the wide variety of exercise videos that are available online! Even the busiest of moms will be able to appreciate the stress-reducing properties of a relaxing yoga workout at home.
Pascale Vandenbroucke is the Creative Director of Workouts On Demand. They offer instant access to over 200 online exercise videos for only pennies a day.
Article Source: Home Yoga Workouts Help Reduce A Mom's Stress
By Pascale Vandenbroucke
If you are like many moms, your day never seems to be over. When your stress levels are climbing and you just can't seem to catch a break, try turning to a few calming exercise videos. Exercise gets your blood pumping and puts your muscles to good use, allowing your body and mind to focus on something other than the stressful situations that are getting you down.
Yoga is ideal for exercising at home because it requires little to no specialized equipment, there are plenty of online exercise videos with dozens of different moves to try, and can be done in almost any room. The beauty of yoga routines is that they can be as long or as short as you need them to be, and many exercise videos feature combinations of moves that work specific areas of the body which is something many women appreciate. By combining any of the following moves you can easily devise your own home yoga workouts! Simply select a move / pose, hold it for about 10 seconds, and release. You can then begin your next move or end your workout, it's entirely up to you!
Five yoga poses to help reduce a mom's stress
1) The Arms Overhead Position - Sit or kneel on the floor. Next, slowly lift your arms over your head and lace your fingers together once your arms are fully extended. For maximum benefit, try to keep your spine as straight as possible.
2) The Arms in Front Position - Similar to the Arms Overhead position, make sure that you are seated or kneeling with your arms fully extended and your fingers laced together. Instead of having your arms extended above your head however, in this position you should lean forward, gently rounding your spine. You should feel the muscles between your shoulder blades working with this one!
3) The Reclining Cobbler Position - Find a small cushion or roll up a throw blanket for use with this position. Lay back with your cushion / blanket positioned vertically, supporting your head and shoulders. Put your feet together with the soles touching and try to touch the floor with your knees.
4) The Child's Position - Kneel down and rest with your bottom against your heels. Slowly lean forward until your forearms are resting on the floor. Elongate your neck, take a deep breath, and exhale. You can use your cushion / blanket roll to support your upper body during this exercise if needed.
5) The Supported Bridge Position - Place your cushion / blanket on the floor and lay down on top of it with it supporting your hips. Arch your back gently, feeling the muscles in your hips and abdomen engage. Hold this position as long as you can, and then relax.
You can find moves like these and many more in the wide variety of exercise videos that are available online! Even the busiest of moms will be able to appreciate the stress-reducing properties of a relaxing yoga workout at home.
Pascale Vandenbroucke is the Creative Director of Workouts On Demand. They offer instant access to over 200 online exercise videos for only pennies a day.
Article Source: Home Yoga Workouts Help Reduce A Mom's Stress
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Week #9 on Weight Watchers 360
It is week #9 on Weight Watchers 360° and I lost 1.2 pounds. I had fun this week. I started exercising.
Since I started to exercise on a regular basis I've noticed I have lots more energy and a more positive attitude. Plus, I wanted everyone to realize that exercise can actually be fun. Really!
When most people think of exercise they automatically assume it means going to a gym. I want to mention a couple ways you can exercise that don't involve going to a gym. Hopefully you will find something that you enjoy.
Walking
This is the easiest, cheapest and most convenient way to exercise. There is no special equipment necessary - all you need are a pair of regular sneakers. It can be done almost anywhere anytime. Lots of people walk during their lunch break, first thing in the morning or after their dinner in the evening.
You can make it even more enjoyable by listening to a mp3 player with your favorite songs. Just try picking songs that have a good beat to walk to.
Walking is also a great way to clear your head at the end of a long, stressful day. You can also make it a family event by taking the whole family along with you.
Video Games
There are loads of video games to choose from Just Dance, Dance Central, Wii Fit, AE Sports Active 2, Biggest Loser Workout, Zumba and more. Depending on what you enjoy doing, sports, dance, yoga or old fashioned exercises, there are a couple games to chose from for each gaming system.
These are great for the person who do not want to exercise in front of others or cannot get out for whatever reason (ex. caring for kids, no vehicle).
My absolute favorite is Just Dance 4. My daughter and I compete to see who can get the highest score. I also like Wii Fit Plus' yoga, snowball game, rhythm parade, and ski jump.
Swimming
This is probably the easiest activity if you are concerned about your joints. If you have a pool at home or a community pool this is a great option. However, you will need to find another exercise for winter months if your pool is outside.
Dancing
This is my favorite type of exercise. Simply turn on your favorite type of music and start moving. If you start to get tired switch to marching in place or stepping side to side. Get that heart pumping.
Basically find an exercise you like and then do it everyday. Shoot for 30 minutes or more each day. Work up to it if you have to. You should start to feel more energetic in no time and of course you can track your activity points on Weight Watchers Online.
* This post is sponsored by Weight Watchers.com, but ALL opinions are completely mine and 100% honest. These are my actual experiences and feelings about following Weight Watchers 360° online program.
** People following the Weight Watchers plan can expect to lose 1-2 pounds per week.
Monday, March 25, 2013
Kids, Electronics and Communication Skills
Heck my son knows more about working our entertainment system than I do. He knows how to get a video to play from our computer onto the tv screen without reading a user manual. It's almost second nature to kids today.
However, have you heard teen aged kids talk on the phone recently? When I was younger we stayed on the phone for hours on end. Now it seems you need to pull teeth to get them to say almost anything. "Hi!", "Yeah", "Okay", "Whatever" and "Fine" are about all you'll hear from most teens when you ask them a question.
How many times have you seen 2 kids sitting in the same room not saying a word but they are busy texting away to each other. I suppose it's their equivalent of whispering or passing notes.
As a parent I try to limit the amount of screen time my kids have and encourage them be more social. Whether it be television, computer, hand held games, iPods, etc. these devices are considered a treat.
When my kids were younger, my family used these types of devices when we are waiting at the orthodontist, on long car rides and occasionally for educational purposes. Now that they are older, the kids use them once all their homework is done for about 30 minutes. Let's face it if it were left up to the kids they would play for hours on end.
Many kids would prefer to play video games all afternoon instead of playing outside, but encouraging them to have face-to-face time with others helps them learn to read body language and to respond to the emotions of others.
Thank goodness, the 5th grade teachers at my son's school feel the same way I do and actually makes the students do oral reports each month in front of the class. Nothing fancy - only 1-2 minutes, but it helps them get over any fear of speaking in front of others. Plus it encourages them to share a little bit about themselves with their classmates. Perfect for kids who are more reserved.
Learning to use a computer and other electronics is useful and beneficial to their education, but just like everything else, they need to be done in moderation.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Keeping a Positive Attitude During Difficult Times
Your car breaks down. You lose your job. You're facing foreclosure. You lost a beloved family member. You've received a bad medical report.
Everyone faces difficult times in their lives.
People come and go from your life. Businesses go out of business. Cars only last so long before needing major repairs. Life is constantly changing, but it doesn't have to get you down.
The key is to keep a positive attitude and an eye on the big picture.
Here are a couple ways I try to maintain a positive attitude. Hopefully they will help you as well.
Prayer
Spend quiet time with God. Read the Bible and ask God for direction and guidance in your life. Then be still and listen.
Try to look at the bigger picture of your life not just this one moment in time. Not just the bad moments in your life either.
Be Thankful
One way to see how truly blessed you really are is to write down all the things you are thankful for. This is something I do each night. I write in a small journal everything I'm thankful for - big or small. I give thanks for getting out onto a busy road safely, no arguments between my kids, gas for my vehicle, and even that my new kitten and my older cat are getting along better each day. Anything and everything you can think of.
Give/Help/Focus on Others
A good way to keep a positive attitude is to focus on others. Forget about your own problems for a little while and focus solely on helping others.
If you need money - give money. If you need more time - volunteer your time. If you want more love - give love. Whatever you need give away and it will come back to you. Try it and see. Give 10 minutes of time to help a friend, give $5 to a person in need, give undivided attention to a child. It doesn't have to be big you just have to give.
Life is like a river not a dam - you have to give and receive.
No Whining
Quit complaining and whining because it doesn't help and it drains your energy. Seek help in finding solutions to your problems if you need to, but stop telling everyone what is going wrong in your life just to get sympathy.
Focus on What You CAN Do
If you are having a difficult time financially - you shouldn't go out spending money. Find free things to do such as going on a picnic, going to the library or spending time with friends at home
If you are struggling with having lost your job now is the perfect time to update your resume. Call any friends, family and acquaintances to help you find a new job. Public libraries usually keep a copy of the local newspaper to search the classifieds. They also have free internet access so you can hunt online.
It's all to easy to have a pity party or even fall into depression when things go wrong in life, but life changes constantly. You need to keep moving and keep a positive outlook on life. Just like Dory from "Finding Nemo". Just Keep Swimming.
Focus on helping others, being thankful for what you have and do what you can to make life pleasant.
Everyone faces difficult times in their lives.
People come and go from your life. Businesses go out of business. Cars only last so long before needing major repairs. Life is constantly changing, but it doesn't have to get you down.
The key is to keep a positive attitude and an eye on the big picture.
Here are a couple ways I try to maintain a positive attitude. Hopefully they will help you as well.
Prayer
Spend quiet time with God. Read the Bible and ask God for direction and guidance in your life. Then be still and listen.
Try to look at the bigger picture of your life not just this one moment in time. Not just the bad moments in your life either.
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
Be Thankful
One way to see how truly blessed you really are is to write down all the things you are thankful for. This is something I do each night. I write in a small journal everything I'm thankful for - big or small. I give thanks for getting out onto a busy road safely, no arguments between my kids, gas for my vehicle, and even that my new kitten and my older cat are getting along better each day. Anything and everything you can think of.
Give/Help/Focus on Others
A good way to keep a positive attitude is to focus on others. Forget about your own problems for a little while and focus solely on helping others.
"Get your mind off yourself." Joyce Meyer
Life is like a river not a dam - you have to give and receive.
No Whining
Quit complaining and whining because it doesn't help and it drains your energy. Seek help in finding solutions to your problems if you need to, but stop telling everyone what is going wrong in your life just to get sympathy.
Focus on What You CAN Do
If you are having a difficult time financially - you shouldn't go out spending money. Find free things to do such as going on a picnic, going to the library or spending time with friends at home
If you are struggling with having lost your job now is the perfect time to update your resume. Call any friends, family and acquaintances to help you find a new job. Public libraries usually keep a copy of the local newspaper to search the classifieds. They also have free internet access so you can hunt online.
It's all to easy to have a pity party or even fall into depression when things go wrong in life, but life changes constantly. You need to keep moving and keep a positive outlook on life. Just like Dory from "Finding Nemo". Just Keep Swimming.
Focus on helping others, being thankful for what you have and do what you can to make life pleasant.
Wednesday, March 06, 2013
Are You Just a Mom?
Lately, I've gotten the feeling that being a mom isn't enough. How many of you have ever been asked what you do for a living and once you said you are a mom the person quickly ended the conversation? Like they were thinking - Oh so you don't work!
I was getting the feeling I need to work outside the home, care for my kids, hubby and home, and an endless number of other things in order to be valued as a person.
Just out of curiosity I googled "Is being just a mom enough?" and ran across this great video. It's was just what I needed and I hope it helps some of you also.
Let's face it we as moms are responsible for teaching our kids to become responsible, respectable, caring, and intelligent people. We are in charge of keeping our homes running smoothly, making sure everyone has clean clothes to wear, food to eat, homework done correctly, and pets are fed and cared for - just to name a few.
I'd say that's a pretty important job!
I was getting the feeling I need to work outside the home, care for my kids, hubby and home, and an endless number of other things in order to be valued as a person.
Just out of curiosity I googled "Is being just a mom enough?" and ran across this great video. It's was just what I needed and I hope it helps some of you also.
Let's face it we as moms are responsible for teaching our kids to become responsible, respectable, caring, and intelligent people. We are in charge of keeping our homes running smoothly, making sure everyone has clean clothes to wear, food to eat, homework done correctly, and pets are fed and cared for - just to name a few.
I'd say that's a pretty important job!
Monday, February 25, 2013
Get Organized for a Less Stressful Move
This past weekend I helped my sister and her husband move. They are moving in with his family while they look for a new home.
One thing I've learned from moving family members and friends over the years is that you need to have a plan.
Start Packing Early
As soon as you find out you will be moving start packing. Anything not used on a regular basis gets put in a box. Packing up a whole house is a monstrous task that takes a lot of time.
Sort Your Stuff
Put all like items together whenever possible. Try to avoid boxes full of random stuff. It will take you twice as long to unpack if your personal belongs are just thrown randomly in boxes. Sort by room is the easiest way. Preferably pack items that will all go into the same room in your new place together, so you can label the box "Kitchen", "Master Bedroom", "Guest Bathroom", etc. The goal is to make it easier to unpack as well as to pack up your current home.
Label, Label, Label
In addition to labeling what is located inside your boxes, it's really helpful to write where that box should go. For example, mark boxes for "storage", "Becky's Room", "Upstairs Bathroom", or "Living Room". This small step will help everyone. Who wants their moving helpers asking you non stop "Where does this go?".
Have Lots of Help
Come moving day get as many people to help you move as possible. If you have the money hire movers and a moving truck. A dolly and or a hand cart are really helpful to have on hand especially for moving dressers, shelves, buffets, and more.
Don't rule out kids helping to move - well behaved ones that is. I say well-behaved ones because it will be more stressful having to deal with unruly or bored kids. Elementary school aged or older can be quite helpful. They can carry lighter items such as bags of clothes, bedding, and small boxes.
When possible, arrange for a sitter for babies and young children who could easily get under foot and possibly hurt. If you must bring kids and they aren't able to help make sure they bring a toy to keep them occupied. This is the perfect time for a portable gaming system or dvd player.
Let There Be Food
Hopefully lots of people will be helping move your stuff to your new home. These people are going to be working hard and are going to work up an appetite. Be sure to offer plenty to drink, especially water. Also some food that will curb their appetite such as pizza or fried chicken. The reason for this is it's convenient, you won't need to stop working to cook, plus it's not terribly expensive.
Storage
Once your personal belongings are all boxed up, labeled, and ready to go. Start moving boxes to storage, if you can, or designate a spot out of the way if possible.
If your home is currently on the market and potential buyers are touring your home, seriously consider renting a storage unit or pod. You will want to stage your home to make it look as big, open and bright as possible. Remove almost all your personal belongings. Buyers need to envision themselves living in your home to buy it.
Only leave the essential items you need to live and a few items to stage the home. Pack up all your collectibles, family photos, most of the kids' toys, and non essential kitchen items. Remember that items in storage aren't gone forever. If you really need an item you can always go get it.
A little planning ahead of time will cut some of the stress of moving. It will be easier to find something when you need it. It will be easier for your moving helpers because they won't have to ask lots of questions. It should make your move go a little smoother and the alternative.
One thing I've learned from moving family members and friends over the years is that you need to have a plan.
Start Packing Early
As soon as you find out you will be moving start packing. Anything not used on a regular basis gets put in a box. Packing up a whole house is a monstrous task that takes a lot of time.
Sort Your Stuff
Put all like items together whenever possible. Try to avoid boxes full of random stuff. It will take you twice as long to unpack if your personal belongs are just thrown randomly in boxes. Sort by room is the easiest way. Preferably pack items that will all go into the same room in your new place together, so you can label the box "Kitchen", "Master Bedroom", "Guest Bathroom", etc. The goal is to make it easier to unpack as well as to pack up your current home.
Label, Label, Label
In addition to labeling what is located inside your boxes, it's really helpful to write where that box should go. For example, mark boxes for "storage", "Becky's Room", "Upstairs Bathroom", or "Living Room". This small step will help everyone. Who wants their moving helpers asking you non stop "Where does this go?".
Have Lots of Help
Come moving day get as many people to help you move as possible. If you have the money hire movers and a moving truck. A dolly and or a hand cart are really helpful to have on hand especially for moving dressers, shelves, buffets, and more.
Don't rule out kids helping to move - well behaved ones that is. I say well-behaved ones because it will be more stressful having to deal with unruly or bored kids. Elementary school aged or older can be quite helpful. They can carry lighter items such as bags of clothes, bedding, and small boxes.
When possible, arrange for a sitter for babies and young children who could easily get under foot and possibly hurt. If you must bring kids and they aren't able to help make sure they bring a toy to keep them occupied. This is the perfect time for a portable gaming system or dvd player.
Let There Be Food
Hopefully lots of people will be helping move your stuff to your new home. These people are going to be working hard and are going to work up an appetite. Be sure to offer plenty to drink, especially water. Also some food that will curb their appetite such as pizza or fried chicken. The reason for this is it's convenient, you won't need to stop working to cook, plus it's not terribly expensive.
Storage
Once your personal belongings are all boxed up, labeled, and ready to go. Start moving boxes to storage, if you can, or designate a spot out of the way if possible.
If your home is currently on the market and potential buyers are touring your home, seriously consider renting a storage unit or pod. You will want to stage your home to make it look as big, open and bright as possible. Remove almost all your personal belongings. Buyers need to envision themselves living in your home to buy it.
Only leave the essential items you need to live and a few items to stage the home. Pack up all your collectibles, family photos, most of the kids' toys, and non essential kitchen items. Remember that items in storage aren't gone forever. If you really need an item you can always go get it.
A little planning ahead of time will cut some of the stress of moving. It will be easier to find something when you need it. It will be easier for your moving helpers because they won't have to ask lots of questions. It should make your move go a little smoother and the alternative.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Mommytime Monday - Find Peace and Quiet at Home
Let's face it there are times when every one of us needs to get away from the kids. You just need 5 minutes to yourself. With no one asking you a million questions, complaining that their brother/sister is bothering them or that they're bored.
Here are a couple ways you can steal away for 5-20 minutes or more (depending on your child's age).
Let me explain - I'm not saying it's okay to leave your child unattended in an unsafe manner. Never leave your child in a car, in a infant walker or any other place where the child may become injured.
One of the first ways is to set the child up with their favorite movie/tv show. Another option is one they have never seen before and seem really interested in. This will give you 15-30 minutes or more to lay down on the sofa and relax and catch a few zzz's. You're still in the same room and would be able to hear your child if they needed you.
The second way you can get some peace and quiet is put your child down for a nap. Even kids 5 or 6 can still need a nap during the day. Just avoid the common trap of trying to get stuff done while they are sleeping. You should be resting also.
It may sound counter-productive but arrange a play date for older kids. Kids from age 5 and up are pretty good about playing with other kids. Especially ones that don't get to come over often. They are too busy showing off all their toys to come bug Mom. Set the rules ahead of time and you shouldn't have much trouble.
Of course, there's always waiting until the kids have fallen asleep. However, sometimes you just can't wait that long.
Lastly, if you have an infant and need a couple minutes utilize the car seat or a play pen. Just make sure if you use a car seat that the child is fastened in and the handle is locked into position. Using the car seat is a wonderful way to take a shower or bath, because the baby is right there next to the tub. You can carry them into the kitchen, so you can watch the baby while fixing dinner. Plus they can see you.
Just a couple ways you can get some peace and quiet while at home with your kids. Let's face it we all can use some down time.
Enjoy!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Mommytime Monday - Peer Pressure
We've all heard about peer pressure. It's talked about by counselors and teachers at most schools nowadays.
...but what about peer pressure felt by moms by other moms.
How many times have you been asked to volunteer at your kids school? Can you make the costumes for the school play? Can you help run the bake sale? What about all the fundraisers? Questioned about why you haven't volunteered in your child's class or at scouts?
We need to remember as women and moms that everyone is different. Not all moms enjoy the same things or can do the same things. Not everyone has the time to volunteer regularly.
We as women need to be more assertive. We need to pick and choose what is most important to us and our families.
As moms, we too, can feel pressured by our local schools and other parents to give up time and energy to help out in our children's schools. I urge you to help out your children's schools in ways that you feel comfortable with. That may mean making costumes, donating items to the bake sale, or if it's something you feel okay with volunteering in the classrooms. You may not have time to do any of those things and that's okay too. You need to do what's best for you and your family first and for most.
Just like we teach our children - don't give in to peer pressure.
...but what about peer pressure felt by moms by other moms.
How many times have you been asked to volunteer at your kids school? Can you make the costumes for the school play? Can you help run the bake sale? What about all the fundraisers? Questioned about why you haven't volunteered in your child's class or at scouts?
We need to remember as women and moms that everyone is different. Not all moms enjoy the same things or can do the same things. Not everyone has the time to volunteer regularly.
We as women need to be more assertive. We need to pick and choose what is most important to us and our families.
As moms, we too, can feel pressured by our local schools and other parents to give up time and energy to help out in our children's schools. I urge you to help out your children's schools in ways that you feel comfortable with. That may mean making costumes, donating items to the bake sale, or if it's something you feel okay with volunteering in the classrooms. You may not have time to do any of those things and that's okay too. You need to do what's best for you and your family first and for most.
Just like we teach our children - don't give in to peer pressure.
Friday, May 22, 2009
4 Ways to De-Stress and Sleep Better
Almost everyone knows the benefits of a good night's sleep. Increased energy. Ability to think clearly. These are just two of the many health benefits available, yet far too many people get less than 7 hours of sleep a night. They are constantly stressed - worrying about jobs, money, relationships and more.
Here are a four simple ways to de-stress and get a better night's sleep, and they don't cost a fortune.
Journaling
One of the easiest things you can do is to keep a journal. Now don't feel intimidated this is actually super easy. Get yourself a notebook. It can be a cheap spiral notebook or a fancy leather journal. They both work the same. Write one paragraph or an entire page or more. It's up to you. In your journal write everything that happened in the world and your life specifically that influenced you that day. All your happy times, stressful moments, and worries - everything good and bad. I call this "downloading" or "dumping" everything that is running through your mind. Once you write it down forget about it.
List Making
Have you ever tried to go to sleep, but could get your mind to shut off? Well, the second thing to do is keep a written to-do list. Before you go to bed each night list everything you want to do tomorrow or didn't get done today. This can get all things off your mind plus you'll be less likely to forget something.
Turn off the Electronics
Today's society stresses the importance of being connected all the time and getting as much done as possible. So many of us are glued to our cell phones almost 24 hours a day. Plus, there are those who stay online late into the night just surfing with no real reason.
Disconnecting is another great way to de-stress. Turn off your cell phone, internet and tv for a day or even a couple hours. Take that time to relax, go for a walk, or read a book. Do something you enjoy doing. Seriously, the world isn't going to stop just because you turned off your cell phone. People survived for thousands of years without a cell phone and you can certainly survive a couple hours.
Exercise
Perhaps the most beneficial way to de-stress and sleep better would be to exercise. By getting some moderate exercise throughout the day you will improve your health. Plus it is proven that people who exercise regularly report fewer instances of sleeplessness and it is been shown to reduce stress.
These are just a few ways to help improve the quality of your sleep and help you get over the stress in your life. Start living a healthier and more relaxed lifestyle today.
Kimberly Shavatt runs http://www.HelpingMomsAtHome.com and http://kimshavatt.blogspot.com. She shares lots of helpful hints and tips to help you save time, save money and save your sanity.
Here are a four simple ways to de-stress and get a better night's sleep, and they don't cost a fortune.
Journaling
One of the easiest things you can do is to keep a journal. Now don't feel intimidated this is actually super easy. Get yourself a notebook. It can be a cheap spiral notebook or a fancy leather journal. They both work the same. Write one paragraph or an entire page or more. It's up to you. In your journal write everything that happened in the world and your life specifically that influenced you that day. All your happy times, stressful moments, and worries - everything good and bad. I call this "downloading" or "dumping" everything that is running through your mind. Once you write it down forget about it.
List Making
Have you ever tried to go to sleep, but could get your mind to shut off? Well, the second thing to do is keep a written to-do list. Before you go to bed each night list everything you want to do tomorrow or didn't get done today. This can get all things off your mind plus you'll be less likely to forget something.
Turn off the Electronics
Today's society stresses the importance of being connected all the time and getting as much done as possible. So many of us are glued to our cell phones almost 24 hours a day. Plus, there are those who stay online late into the night just surfing with no real reason.
Disconnecting is another great way to de-stress. Turn off your cell phone, internet and tv for a day or even a couple hours. Take that time to relax, go for a walk, or read a book. Do something you enjoy doing. Seriously, the world isn't going to stop just because you turned off your cell phone. People survived for thousands of years without a cell phone and you can certainly survive a couple hours.
Exercise
Perhaps the most beneficial way to de-stress and sleep better would be to exercise. By getting some moderate exercise throughout the day you will improve your health. Plus it is proven that people who exercise regularly report fewer instances of sleeplessness and it is been shown to reduce stress.
These are just a few ways to help improve the quality of your sleep and help you get over the stress in your life. Start living a healthier and more relaxed lifestyle today.
Kimberly Shavatt runs http://www.HelpingMomsAtHome.com and http://kimshavatt.blogspot.com. She shares lots of helpful hints and tips to help you save time, save money and save your sanity.
Sunday, March 08, 2009
HMAH Tip #18 Write at Night
This tip is really easy to do and an excellent way to sleep better. For this tip all you have to do is write before you go to bed at night.
Now I know what you may be thinking who has time to write each night when I have to get the kids in bed, pick up stuff around the house, spend some time with my hubby and I want some time to relax myself. All I suggesting is righting a paragraph or more if you feel up to it.
Here's what you write: a to-do list of things to do tomorrow or things you didn't get done today and a brief summary of what happened today. The summary of the day is pretty important because you'll want to list events that made you happy, mad, sad, confused, etc. Get it off your chest. No one needs to see the stuff you write - you can even throw them away once your done.
The main reason for writing before you go to bed is to "download" or "dump" all the thoughts floating around in your minds. Keeping you up at night. This will also help you remember all those important details that are usually forgotten by morning.
Give this tip a try and see if you are able to sleep a little better at night.
Now I know what you may be thinking who has time to write each night when I have to get the kids in bed, pick up stuff around the house, spend some time with my hubby and I want some time to relax myself. All I suggesting is righting a paragraph or more if you feel up to it.
Here's what you write: a to-do list of things to do tomorrow or things you didn't get done today and a brief summary of what happened today. The summary of the day is pretty important because you'll want to list events that made you happy, mad, sad, confused, etc. Get it off your chest. No one needs to see the stuff you write - you can even throw them away once your done.
The main reason for writing before you go to bed is to "download" or "dump" all the thoughts floating around in your minds. Keeping you up at night. This will also help you remember all those important details that are usually forgotten by morning.
Give this tip a try and see if you are able to sleep a little better at night.
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