Monday, December 29, 2014:

Here's To A Successful 2015 to All!


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Marriage & Relationship Material As We Draft Our 2015 Resolutions

I just stumbled across this tidbit of advice for keeping your marriage healthy and I couldn't help but think that these insights were so appropriate for ALL relationships.


#4:  Ego Wins:
"...practicing openness instead of defensiveness, forgiveness instead of vengeance, apology instead of blame, vulnerability instead of strength and grace instead of power."

I wonder what our society would look like if everyone of us took a second to practice "grace instead of power" in our personal interactions.  

Here is the Huff Post original article- great read!
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Thursday, December 25, 2014:

Merry Christmas!!

Hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!!  Here's a picture of our Santa Snack!

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Wednesday, December 24, 2014:

Trying to Motivate!

Every rational bone in my body KNOWS that if I motivate and get out of the house to get to the gym, this day will be easier.

And yet, here I am, unmotivated, cleaning coffee off the ceiling and supervising the mass destruction of, what once was, my tidy home.


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Tuesday, December 23, 2014:

What A Great Way to Celebrate the Season

As many of you know, I have been working with Quirky to help launch a new product.  We've made it through the social voting phase, past the corporate evaluation phase and we are currently resting in the pre-design phase as we wait out the holiday season and the arrival of the new year.

Yesterday I sent a note to my Quirky invention ambassador to wish him a happy holidays.  I received this message in return:

  ------

------

What an amazing way to show appreciation and respect to your employees during the holiday season!

I continue to be hopeful for an opportunity to work with such an innovative (and considerate) company!
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Wednesday, December 10, 2014:

Love me some Bliss!



Look what I just bought courtesy of TODAY's Steals & Deals!!  A four pack of Bliss Body Butter, normally $116 for just $29!!

I love Bliss products- they all smell yummy and I've always been pleasantly surprised by the results.  They also make great gifts!!  I plan to gift these to my children's teachers- who wouldn't love some body butter to battle away winter skin!!

Check out the deal here
Coupon Code: TODAYD14



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Monday, December 8, 2014:

Coconut Oil for Skin Care

I've heard great things about coconut oil for skincare.  I'm giving it a go this week!  Stay tuned for my thoughts!


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Friday, December 5, 2014:

Products I'm Anxious to Try

Can't wait to get my hands on some of these beauty goodies!  Has anyone tried any of the products below?  What do you think?


  1. No7 Youthful Eye Serum- I am starting to notice deep wrinkling under my eyes but reluctant to spend a ton of money on something that might not work.  Think I'll start here!
  2. ExfoliKate Body Exfoliating Treatment - I absolutely LOVE the ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating treatment for the face so I am desperate to see what the all over body treatment can do.  Sounds like it could be a staple before bronzing creams!
  3. Daily Deflector Watertight Broad Spectrum Anti Aging Sunscreen- The name says it all.  Sunscreen that also helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles?  Yes please!
  4. Exfoliating Rice Enzyme Powder - I am absolutely fascinated by this product!  With a combination of crushed pearls to even skin tone and rice for gentle exfoliation it promises baby-soft skin without irritation.  Must try!
  5. Creme La Mer- I am just dying to find out if the products are worth the price!
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Tuesday, December 2, 2014:

Holiday Decorating Underway!


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Monday, December 1, 2014:

You Know What Isn't Great For Your Skin...

Head colds and stomach bugs :(

We were just on the mend from one when the second came for a visit!  Between the head congestion and coughing and now the dehydration, fevers and general "icks"- it will be a long week!

If you need me, I'll be washing my hands, sipping tea, and resting as much as possible.  How does your family get over illnesses?
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Thursday, November 27, 2014:

Happy Turkey Day!

So much to be thankful for!!  Happy Thanksgiving!!!
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Wednesday, November 26, 2014:

Top Five Healthy Skin "Musts" for Winter

Vitamin E Oil- I have a bottle on my bedside table, a bottle in my shower, and a bottle by my kitchen sink.  A dime-size amount goes a long way and helps cracked, dry skin (Bonus Tip: Put on Vitamin E oil before you put on your dish gloves to clean your dishes- the gloves will seal in the moisture while you finish up the dish chores- which seem to be never ending in our home!).  Read more about my love affair with Vit E here.

Humidifier- Now that the cold weather is here, the heaters are on at full tilt in my home.  Between the dry heat that sucks up whatever moisture we have in our home and the dry cold of the season, my skin gets completely depleted of environmental moisturization.  As soon as the heat comes on in our home, the humidifiers come out (make sure to empty the water daily and to give it a good rinse with some white vinegar once a week).  I love this humidifier- I actually have THREE (one in each bedroom).  Easy to clean and simple to use!

Turn Down the Temperature in the Shower- ok, this is so hard for me, mostly because there is nothing more indulgent in my life than a steamy hot shower, privacy, and, if I am really being greedy, silence (it's the mom in me, what can I say??).  But the hot hot showers that I love so much are actually damaging my skin by removing natural skin oils.  While this isn't normally a problem, combine hot showers with the dry heat and frigid cold...formula for complete skin dehydration.  While your shower shouldn't be cold, try to keep it at a moderate temperature (Bonus Tip: Don't use the exhaust fan- keep the bathroom door open and let the steam from your shower humidify your home).  Read more about making your shower your sanctuary here.

Drink More Water- In the summer months it is easy to remember to push the fluids but hydration from the inside out is just as important in winter months if you want to keep your skin healthy.  The change in seasons and the dry heat literally suck the moisture out of our skin.  Keeping your body hydrated on the inside will help mitigate moisture loss.

Exercise- Earth Shattering Secret--> The fountain of youth is diet and exercise.  While I've been known to go into winter hibernation mode and consider weight gain as nature's way of "personal winterization", a sedentary lifestyle is no good.  Skin thrives on healthy fluid circulation within the body- helping with drainage and eliminating fluid retention which can lead to swelling and puffiness. So even though it might be freezing outside, throw on some snow boots and go for a walk or hunker down at the gym for a morning (all the more reason if they offer free child care...just sayin' :)


And one more thing:  When seasons shift it is a great time to re-evaluate your skincare routine.  Now that we are officially into the winter months, you should consider a thicker cream to help serve as a barrier between your skin and the elements.  I'm still obsessed with my Obagi Hydrate!


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"Do As Little As Possible As Much As Possible"

The trick to aging gracefully- do as little as possible as much as possible.

Did you hear this on TODAY the other day?  Kathie Lee was talking about her dermatologist's recommendation for youthful looking skin.

I love this lesson!  And I live it everyday!  I am in my 30's- the perfect time to start a more pro-active approach for graceful aging. I don't necessarily need any major procedures, but if I keep a good skincare routine, using effective products like hyaluronic serums, retinols and an occasional chemical peel, I can hold off on the more invasive procedures.

That's the great thing about today's topical treatments!  Surgeons are seeing a major shift from invasive surgical procedures to topical treatments because the quality of these products has increased greatly!  Invest in a few staple topical creams, buy a package of chemical peels (two times a year is fine, once a season is great, once a quarter is ideal!), and you will be on your way to maintaining your youthful appearance!




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Sunday, November 23, 2014:

Weekly Workout Motivation

Happy Monday everyone!  Here is a sneak peak to this week's workout schedule!  

This Weeks Workout Goals:
Monday- 20 min run outdoors (This warm weather is great!)
Tuesday- Rest 
Wednesday- Gym- 30mins on treadmill.  Arms.
Thurday- Eat Turkey!
Friday- Try to motivate and get off the couch for a slow post turkey trot
Saturday- Rest
Sunday- Rest


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Thursday, November 20, 2014:

Make Your Shower Your Sanctuary

If you are a busy mom like me, your showers are probably an exercise in efficiency.  After many attempts at hiding from my kids in the shower, I soon realized there was no escape so I eventually learned how to shower in under 5 minutes flat- while it's impressive, it's also, well, sad.

Now that my kids are old enough (sort of) to keep themselves entertained in my childproof (sort of) upstairs, I've allowed myself a few more minutes of shower indulgence- opting to outfit my salle de bain with some stellar beauty brands (that won't break the bank)!


Here are my shower perks! Do you have any to share?


  1. Kate Somerville Exfolikate* (note: this stuff is GOOD.  Like REALLY REALLY GOOD.  Go easy with it and use once or twice a week!)
  2. Ivory with Aloe- I absolutely love the fresh scent of Ivory body wash and now that we are in the winter months, I'll take any soap that has Aloe or extra moisturization properties!
  3. Vitamin E Oil- you.know.this.  I swear by this and I have even added a THIRD bottle to my bedside. 
  4. Jergen's Natural Glow- because nothing makes winter worse than having pale winter skin.
  5. Aquaphor- I use this on my lips.  It started out as a "Diaper Bag Beauty" essential and now it is part of my post-shower pampering!


*I am a huge loyalist when it comes to Kate Somerville products.  I use plenty of the fancy schmancy med-spa quality stuff but Kate Somerville's products always leave me impressed and really enable consumers to bring the spa experience home with them.  Big thumbs up for her products from this mama!

Note: This is not a sponsored post.

Do you have any beauty tips that you want to share with other busy moms!  Send them to katekarmama@gmail.com.  I'll give them a try and share!

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Tuesday, November 18, 2014:

Do you Dare to Dermaplane?!

This polar vortex is already doing a number on my skin!  I am staying loyal to my skincare rituals, but I am fearful of what this winter weather will bring!

Scrolling through some of my media mailings, I saw a note about Dermaplaning.  I've heard about this procedure, but something about a razor grazing off the top layer of my skin kind of turned me off.


However, as that top layer of skin hardens and dulls with winter's effects, I think I might reconsider. Here's a blurb on dermaplaning from The Plastic Surgery Group of Albany, NY.

Dermaplaning

This gentle skin resurfacing procedure exfoliates the top layer of dead skin cells. A special surgical blade is gently and carefully run across the surface of the skin. In addition to promoting skin cell renewal, dermaplaning improves penetration of professional and home products for the skin. Dermaplaning also removes facial hair, making it a great way to get rid of "peach fuzz." As with many of our services, we recommend a series of dermaplaning treatments to maximize results.

Would you try it...hmm...maybe I should wait until spring and "shave away" winter's damage!
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Seriously! No More Monkeys Jumping On The Bed!!

Last night the little guy played a game of "monkey see, monkey do" and jumped off his brother's toddler bed.

The poor little guy did something to his foot.  Although he wasn't in acute pain, he left out a little whimper every time he tried to put weight on it 😔.  A little wounded cub.

He managed to limp and crawl after his brother- attempting to climb up on the bed again.

It was bedtime and since he didn't appear to be in pain, we put him down and decided to take him into the urgent care center if he was still limping in the morning.

Welp, he was still limping in the morning so off to the doctor we went.

Miraculously, from the time I put him in the car seat to the moment JUST before X-Rays were taken, he was healed- running up and down the halls of the medical office.

Mom never wins!  Glad he is well and back to his busy self but I'm fairly certain I've been tagged as a hypochondriac!

 
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Monday, November 17, 2014:

Weekly Workouts Coming Soon...

My oldest was up coughing a lot last night so I kept both boys home this morning. This meant scrambling (but so grateful) for a sitter to watch the boys while I went to a (long overdue) doctors appointment.

It's also pouring here in north Jersey.  I wish I could have gotten a run in (weeks are much more challenging when I don't start off with our regular routine!), but instead of harping on being out of sync, just going to embrace this lack of control, enjoy my afternoon decaf coffee while my little guy naps, and listen to Curious George while I surf the Internet for good reads!

And in doing so, I came across this- great insights on how to be a happier person!


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Thursday, November 13, 2014:

Friday Funny

Some days we're media-free.  Other days we're "my son is watching Mickey Mouse Club marathons in Russian- so he's totally going to be bilingual". #justification #goodforlanguagedevelopment #orsomething
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Tuesday, November 11, 2014:

Collagen Boosting Foods

Want to fight aging from the inside?  Add these items to your diet to boost collagen production and increase antioxidant intake!

Collagen and elastin help keep your skin plump and dewy which makes it harder for your skin to wrinkle and fold!

And antioxidants are so important in fighting those free radicals that destroy collagen and elastin!!  Eat up!


  • Dark Green Vegetables (no surprise here)
  • Beans (I talked about hyaluronic acid in yesterday's post.  Turns out beans are full of this!)
  • Prunes (Antioxidants and healthy digestion!)
  • Blueberries (Antioxidants)
  • Flaxseed (I add a tablespoon to my morning yogurt!)
  • Chocolate (you're welcome)

And...
ICYMI:
A big "THANK YOU" to everyone who has taken a minute to like, comment, share, and view my Quirky idea.  I am really hoping that we can develop this product and it's because of your interest and encouragement that it might actually happen!

Looking for continued Quirky love and support.  Follow the links below to learn more about my submission :)  THANKS!
  • I'm sharing a link to my video here so you can get a better idea of the product
  • And here is a link to my idea outline
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Monday, November 10, 2014:

Some Quirky Love- Call to Action, Please :)

As many of you know, I have made it to the "Explore" phase for Quirky!  As I wait to be slotted and scheduled for deeper exploration, I have had plenty of time to think about how helpful my Magnetic Mesh Laundry Bag would be for so many different groups.

It was while I was deep in the weeds of new motherhood, grasping at items that promised better sleep or longer stretches of contentment, that I realized how much of an inconvenience laundry was when coupled with the demands of being a parent.  Laundry was absolutely impossible to do while you had a baby in your arms and yet, an essential chore that had to be completed sometime between naps and (every-two-hour) feedings.

It was through the constant up/down and the heavy and awkward lifting and pulling from my bottom washer up to my stackable dryer that I realized just how much work was involved in laundry- impossible for mothers recovering from c-sections and just a major pain in the butt for moms with no time and, most often, working with an infant in their arms.  But strangely, it was clean laundry that helped me feel like I was keeping it somewhat together...

Everything was done in steps with each transition pain-point being a tick on my "to do" list.
  1. Collect laundry from bedrooms
  2. Bring laundry down two flights of stairs to basement
  3. Load laundry into washer
  4. Return upstairs and pick up the random sock and underwear I dropped on my way down
  5. Transfer laundry to dryer (hand over hand over hand, bend to pick up dropped sock off basement/dungeon floor and wonder if I should rewash that t-shirt after it landed in a cobweb)
  6. Bring laundry up from basement
  7. Leave in my bedroom for a week (and pick up dumped out basket no less than five times thanks to busy body babies!)
  8. Sort laundry (and be completely bewildered that in that ENTIRE load of laundry, all I had was a pair of socks?  Seems unfair...)


And that's when I came up with my Quirky idea- a laundry bag that eliminated the frustrating transfer pain points and sorting demands.  My idea combined the common mesh laundry bag used for delicates with magnetic technology that allowed my bag to act like a "liner" on the wash bins, and it made laundry doing so.much.simpler.

And isn't that what every mom wants?  Simple solutions that save time so that she can enjoy being a mom while accomplishing important household tasks?

The more I developed this idea and talked about it amongst my friends, the more I realized how far reaching the product benefits were and how this product could impact consumers at so many different life stages- parents trying to simplify daily chores, laundromat users trying to keep laundry secure, and the elderly and/or handicapped who may struggle with the constant lifting and bending that's involved with laundry doing.

This post is really an opportunity for me to generate more interest and feedback on the idea.  I am waiting for Quirky's next move but I could really use your help in spreading the word about this potential product.  The more people who think that this could really help them in their daily life, the more likely this product will be manufactured (and the more likely my inventor dreams will become a reality :).

Now here's my call to action:
Can you share this post, spread the word, like a tweet, etc?  Generating buzz for this product is essential to understand how it will be received by consumers.  If you think this is an item you would use (as a mom, a college student, a caregiver, a laundromat users, etc), please like, share and talk about this idea!  Do you have feedback or insights that might make this idea better, log on to Quirky and become an influencer.

I'm sharing a link to my video here so you can get a better idea of the product
And here is a link to my idea outline

Many thank yous!  And fingers crossed for product development :)
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Weekly Workouts

I've gotten a little off track these last few weeks- so hard to stick to a routine with travel and sick kiddos. But it's Monday and I got a nice slow run in under my belt- motivating me to get back on track for the week!!  So here's my plan!!







This Weeks Workout Goals:
Monday- 20 min run outdoors
Tuesday- Rest (if you count open playspace at Kidville "rest")
Wednesday- Gym- 30mins on treadmill.  Arms.
Thurday- Rest
Friday- Gym- 30 mins
Saturday- Date Day at the Squash Courts!
Sunday- 20 minute run


Hope you stay healthy this week! 
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Thursday, November 6, 2014:

What's the Difference Between a Serum and a Moisturizer?

I was recently asked to explain the difference between a moisturizer and a serum.  It's actually a great question for someone who is just starting a skincare routine.  Here's my answer:

Moisturizers or creams tend to reside on the skin's surface and serve as one part moisturizer and one part barrier.  They help protect and restore the skin, but tend to be heavy and thick and therefore, they don't have deep-penetrating capabilities.

Serums are far more powerful and, when used correctly, infuse your skin with hydration from deep below the top layer of the skin.  The consistency of a serum is much thiner than a moisturizer- allowing it to go below the skin's surface for deep hydration.

Serums are powerful topical treatments with intense active ingredients- look for hyaluronic acid/sodium hyaluronate- this is the key ingredient to infusing your skin with deep hydration to get the dewy, glowing skin you seek.  Many serums also have powerful vitamin extracts that promote skin turnover and renewal.

Moisturizers are important in prevention and protection- some also have wrinkle-deminishing ingredients, but serums are the heavy-lifters when it comes to age reversal.

You should apply serums to clean, dry skin and allow the serum to absorb before applying a moisturizer.

My serum pick: 
Kate Somerville's Quench Hydrating Face Serum- this product is great if your are just starting to add a serum to your skincare routine.  It's powerful enough to notice a change in your skin's quality and perfect for proactively combating anti-aging.




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The Complexity of Beauty Blogging in the Parenting Category

Today is the perfect day to talk about the hypocricy of blogging about beauty while in the weeds of mommihood.

I'm just not feeling put together.  Period. End of sentence.

I'm trying to recruit some motivation- I have a sitter for the morning and I was going to use this time to go to the gym.  But my one year old hasn't stopped whining and clinging to me and it's amazing how quickly two hours can go by with a sitter when she offers childcare AND in-home adult conversation (without the pressure of tidying up before a play date).

To top it off, it's cold and miserable outside.

Ok, that's enough misery for one day.  Time to reboot my attitude.

... ... ... ...


No more excuses and unfortunately no time to go to the gym, workout, and shower.

But what I CAN do is spend 20 minutes in the privacy of my bedroom doing efficient PureBarre stretching and toning (translation: bounce around like an idiot), hop in the shower, slather on some Jergens Naturual Glow Moisturizer and blow dry my hair.  And I'm left with 15 minutes to blog about it :)

In keeping with my positivity challenge I am trying to STOP focusing on the negative so much (even though there are days that just seem impossible) and to focus on what I can do and what I managed to accomplish.  Did the day go exactly as I had planned.  Nope- it rarely does.  But did I actually accomplish everything I wanted to accomplish.  Sure did.

 #makeitworkmom 




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Tuesday, November 4, 2014:

Another Challenge for This Week- Marriage and Your Relationship

As most parents with young children can attest to, your marriage can take a serious beating when you add a new baby to the mix.  That's been one of the greatest challenges for me.  Sometimes, at the end of a really long day with the boys, I want to be upset and resentful and of course that lands on my even-tempered husband (who happened to walk in the door seven minutes after he told me he would be home....but really, who's keeping track of time after 13 hours sans spouse- hint...I am!).

Sometimes I feel like I only harp on the negative.  And in reality, my husband would agree that he also has a tendency to point out parenting fails vs. successes.  So, this week's challenge is to be more outwardly complimentary to one another.  Whether it's a "great job getting the little guy down to sleep tonight" or "thanks for being so patient while I checked my email and connected with folks online".

So when I feel like getting frustrated and pointing out something I don't like, I'm going to choose to compliment something I appreciate instead!
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The Secrets to Celebrity Beauty

Did you have a chance to read Renee Rouleau's "Truth Behind Celebrity Skin Care Secrets" published on Refinery29??

Her piece offers a fascinating and realistic interpretation to celebrity secret myths.  While there is some truth to these secrets (it never hurts to drink plenty of water and genes do play an important role!), Renee goes on to explain why 70% of your skin's health is determined by how YOU take care of it while the remaining 30% is genetics.

There are so many simple, daily steps we can take to promote good skin health- sunscreen and healthy diet to name a few.  While some of the more expensive procedures might not be readily available, saving these treatments (microdermabrasion, chemical peels, etc) for your splurges (ahem, the holidays are right around the corner!) will offer a major bang for your buck!  And taking the time to indulge your skin daily with appropriate cleansers, serums, exfoliants will help extend your skin's youthful glow!

Take a look at my seasonal sprucing up routine here.  And read Renee's "Truth Behind Celebrity Skin Care Secrets" post here
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Monday, November 3, 2014:

It's Two PM on Monday...

And I think I'm just now starting to feel better after an amazing wedding celebration on Saturday!!  It was a night of serious over indulgences but there is no better time to "over do it" then when celebrating love!!  Especially in the company of some of my favorite people!!

I took this morning "off" to get a massage while the kids were at school.  And after some naps and lounging, I'll be brainstorming this week's editorial calendar!

Stay tuned!
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Friday, October 31, 2014:

Happy Halloween!!


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Monday, October 27, 2014:

POSITIVITY CHALLENGE

Many of you may have seen my recent retort to a post entitled, "SAHMs Shut the Eff Up".  It rubbed me the wrong way because the author singled out SAHMs as whiney and unappreciative.  Sure, she didn't mean all SAHMs, just the one's who complained about their role despite being among the "luckiest species" in the world (which could be any SAHM on any given day, right?).

While I disagreed with MOST of what the author had to say (actually, I really just think I disagreed with how she said it), I will agree that, perhaps, I could be a bit more positive and that maybe I have fallen into the negative conversation icebreaker of an eye roll and a "can you believe what he did" comment.  But it's not because I am a SAHM...

Maybe, everyone- moms, dads, humanity... could benefit from a little more positivity.

I have been pretty negative lately (and by lately, I mean, "huh, I think I may have always had a negative subtext").  Despite this, I am a firm believer in the power of positive thought (major breakthrough here while doing Intensati- check it out).

So what I am going to challenge myself to do this week (and beyond, but let's not get ahead of ourselves!), is to totally weed out the negative.  Negative thoughts. Negative comments.

The obvious truth here is that when I am negative, I am, in some way, projecting a feeling I have about myself.

I sometimes am really uncertain about how I am doing in the mom department.  Sure, my kids know they are loved, but on a daily basis I am always asking myself questions like, "should I have been more firm?  Was I too firm?  Should I have given more options? Did he deserve that timeout?  Am I sending mixed signals by not having given him a timeout?  Is the little guy too young for timeouts?  Should I have started timeouts with the little guy long ago?"

There are plenty of articles out there about trying to be more positive, but here are my actionable steps towards positivity:

  1. Wake up in the morning and say one positive thing about myself as a mother and as an individual- I really am my own worst critic.  And sometimes my negative thoughts about myself will play on repeat and totally interrupt positive interactions with great people
  2. When I am getting frustrated about a situation and/or with a person, remind myself of something positive about that situation/person (and this "person" can include me, myself, and I).
  3. Don't say a single negative thing about a person to another person.  I hate this and whenever I find myself in a situation where I am venting about someone, I always feel weaker and more insecure because of it moments later.  And the items I am criticizing are usually comments or interpretations that I take way too personally.  I am practicing what I plan to preach to my children- if I don't have anything nice to say, I won't say anything at all.  
  4. And I will respond to every question of "How's it going?" or "How are you today?" with something positive.  After reading this piece, it really has put things into perspective and I really AM so lucky.


So...who's with me?


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Sunday, October 26, 2014:

Weekly Workout

Look Back at Last Week:
Monday- 15 min warm up. 2x3 Hills. 15 min cool down. CHECK
Tuesday- Toddler had the stomach bug. X
Wednesday- Baby had the stomach bug. X
Thursday- Husband had the stomach bug. X (but ok, maybe I could have gotten a run in)
Friday- Gym 30 mins on treadmill and legs. CHECK
Saturday- 20 min run. Nope...spent the day running from one activity to the next.
Sunday- Rest.  CHECK



This Week's Workout Goals:
Monday- 15 min warm up. 2x3 Hills. 15 min cool down
(you may have noticed a pattern with this one...I generally drop both kids off at a morning activity.  Leave my car there.  And run right out of the parking lot).
Tuesday- Rest
Wednesday- 30 mins on treadmill.  Arms.
Thursday- Rest
Friday- 30 mins on treadmill. Legs
Saturday- 30 mins easy run outdoors
Sunday- 30 mins easy run outdoors

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Thursday, October 23, 2014:

I Get Jealous When My Husband Gets Sick- TRUTH

Let's file this under:

  • Things I never thought about before becoming a mom
  • I am so sorry mom, I should have said "thank you" more often
  • This mom thing is hard
  • No sick days for mom


He's laying there, sick as a dog in fetal position.  Clearly he's contracted the stomach bug that's been picking off my family one. by. one.

When I heard him downstairs coughing at 6am, I admit I sort of hoped that he was debating whether or not to go into the office.

I remained hopeful when I came downstairs and saw that, despite being showered and shaved, he was back in his mesh shorts and wrapped in several blankets.

(Guilt: that strange feeling when you actually wish the stomach bug on your husband after you've been stuck inside all week with a sick toddler, a teething one year old, and rainy weather so you can't even take a walk!).

I quietly whispered, "You know, you might actually have a more peaceful day in the office,"- I was feeling guilty and I just wanted to be honest, but not honest enough that he'd change his mind and head in.  With or without the stomach bug, he was still adult company- still another set of hands.

He laid on the couch, I rocked my sick one year old.  My three year old, who appeared to have recovered, played in the playroom.  This lasted for 20 minutes.

And then I started to get annoyed.  I mean, sure, he's "sick" but is he really THAT sick that he can't unlock the childproof potty for our three year old??  Hmm...

The rain tapered a bit so I brought the boys out for some fresh air.  When they appeared perky we even went for a walk to the library, returning just in time for lunch and a torrential down pour.

My husband, still on the couch, moaned for more water and two Advil, "please".

I sat there, cutting up pieces of banana and hard boiled eggs.  Along with cheddar biscuits that I made in an attempt to feel domestic and nurturing (all of which would go uneaten aside from the pieces I all but forcibly convinced my kids to eat) while my husband continued to shift from feverish to ok- resting relatively comfortably on the couch.

As I slowly began to feel the aches in my lower back, as my shoulders began to stiffen and tighten, and as I swallowed away the scratchiness in my throat, all I could think about was how lucky my husband is to be able to lay there, on the couch, admittedly surrounded by chaos, but still able to rest.

I'll be sick tomorrow.  No one will get me two Advil and more water.  My one year old will still ask me to rock him if he's sick (or to chase him if he's feeling better).  My three year old will ask why we can't go to Toddler Time at the Y.  The dogs will still need to be let out.  And then in.  And then out again.

Is it really possible that I'm jealous of my sick husband?!

The struggle is real, my friends.  The struggle.is.real.

RELATED: Why it's so important to have the baby sitter on speed dial

Editor's Note:  I'm just not really loving my tone here.  I kind of sound ungrateful and whiney (which is ok sometimes).  I'm glad I am able to take care of my family.  I'm lucky to have that opportunity.  I am, however, feeling prickly about getting sick and having to get my own Advil!

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Family Sick Day

The stomach bug has officially overstayed it's welcome and is now making its way through the family.

Earlier this week it was my three year old but now it has taken down dad and our one year old.

And then there was one.  Please, for the love of God, let me get a pass on this one.  I'm all out of sick days!!

How do you help your family through stomach bugs?  
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Monday, October 20, 2014:

Are You Doing This Simple Step In Your Skincare Routine?

We spend a lot of time and effort maintaining a healthy appearance when it comes to our face, but are you skipping out on the next part of your body that gives away your age??

Can you guess what body part it is?

...
...
...

Your hands!

Hands can be a dead giveaway of your age- and in many cases they age faster than your face- probably because we think to protect our faces from the sun and other environmental stressors, but not our hands!!

Here are three ways to protect your hands from aggressive aging.

1. Use sunscreen on your hands everyday!  After applying sunscreen on your face, use what's left for the back of your hands.

2. Same goes for face creams and serums.  Whatever remains on your hands after applying to your face, rub into the backs of your hands.

3. Always wear thick rubber gloves when doing your dishes (TIP: If you're like me, dish duty is an on-goin/never-ending process. Keep hand moisturizer by your sink and apply it to your hands before you put on your gloves to tackle the dishes.  The warmth of the water will help improve the effectiveness of your hand lotion and you'll get a mini moisturizing manicure).
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Weekly Workouts

Look Back at Last Week:
Monday- X
Tuesday- X
Wednesday- Gym. CHECK
Thursday- Gym. CHECK
Friday- Rest. Check 
Saturday/Sunday- Long easy run.  1/2 Check...I only ran on Sunday




This Weeks Workout Goals:
Monday- 15 min warm up. 2x3 Hills. 15 min cool down.
Tuesday- Gym- 30 mins on treadmill.  Legs.
Wednesday- Gym- 30mins on treadmill.  Arms.
Thurday- Rest
Friday- Gym- 30 mins
Saturday- 20 minute run
Sunday- Rest


Hope you stay healthy this week! 
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Sunday, October 19, 2014:

Weekly Recap

ICYMI- My Response to the "STFU SAHMs" post

In less than a week this post has garnered over 800 views and has been shared over 100 times.  Glad that this resonated with a few folks ;)
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Friday, October 17, 2014:

Almost as Good as a Mommy Makeover....Almost...

Karmama has a new look!!! A huge "thank you" to Ashley at Dinosaur Stew for helping me polish up my blog!

What's New
  • Clean, sophisticated look and feel
  • Easy to follow buttons so you can get the latest mom-com and beauty insights
  • Easy share buttons to help spread the word (remember, sharing is caring :)
  • Subscribe & email fields so we can stay in touch

What do you think?  Have comments or opinions?  Shoot me an email at katekarmama@gmail.com.  I'd love your feedback!!

Thanks!! 
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It's Like They Know Us

This Tumblr had me laughing out loud!!  Worth taking a look for some Friday laughs!!

Have a great weekend!
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Thursday, October 16, 2014:

Getting Ready for a Makeover!!

I've been finalizing mocks and revising templates... it looks like this blog might be getting a makeover soon!!

Can't wait to install and share our new look!  Stay tuned...

Oh, ICYMI:
Why I Chose Not to Breastfeed
Personally, I don't judge another mom as long as she's taking care of her kid (I learned that lesson, hence the name of this blog).  This is an interesting perspective for anyone who might judge or question.
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Wednesday, October 15, 2014:

Weekly Workouts

Whoops!  I was so caught up with the Brain Games segment and then the nasty SAHM post that I lost track of what I'd like to accomplish in my weekly workouts!









Look Back at Last Week:
Monday- 15 minute warm up, 2x3 hills, 15 minute cool down.  CHECK!
Tuesday- Chasing around my little guy at Kidville.  CHECK!
Wednesday- Gym.  Fail- had to make a trip to the pediatrician for conjunctivitis and ear infection
Thursday- Rest.  CHECK! (although I probably should have swapped with Wednesday's workout)
Friday- Gym.  Fail- just couldn't motivate
Saturday/Sunday- Long easy run.  Fail- house guests and a complete lack of motivation.

This Weeks Workout Goals:
Monday- X
Tuesday- X
Wednesday- Gym- 30mins on treadmill (with slight incline) followed by arms (free weights)
Thurday- Gym- 30mins on treadmill (with slight incline) followed by legs (squats, lunges)
Friday- rest
Saturday- 20 minute run
Sunday- 20 minute run

What are your goals this week?  Can you share any motivation?  Good Luck!
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Monday, October 13, 2014:

In Response to Telling SAHMs to Shut The Eff Up

If you didn't have an opportunity to read this gem, please do so before reading my retort :)

(No, really, if you don't read it before you read my response, I'll just sound profane and defensive).

In Response to "Dear Stay-At-Home Moms: Shut the Eff Up" by Susannah B. Lewis published on "Your Tango: Your Best Love Life" (wait...what?).

Is this for real?  First of all, I drive a [bleeping] station wagon, not a minivan.  Second of all, I can't come at you with sharp kitchen utensils because they are all locked away in childproof cabinets that I haven't been able to open since installing the childproof locks.  And thirdly, I know exactly zero moms who "dream of backpacking across Europe"-  I speak for many moms when I say that most post-parent desires can't be fulfilled by a rucksack and Cinque Terre.  An 11th Century Convent converted into a boutique luxury hotel on the Amalfi Coast?  Now THAT...that sounds fulfilling.

So here is my open invitation to all of you SAHM (and work-at-home moms and working moms and pretty much anyone with the title "mom")...

Come over to my house and vent, ad nauseum, about how [bleeping] hard this [bleep] is.  You can be "sad, and resentful" while you "whine" about your "sink full of dirty dishes" and I will pour you a bottomless glass of high-test coffee (and/or wine) and listen, empathetically because I get it.  I [bleeping] get...it.

You can vent about your "ornery children" without feeling like you need to count your blessing before complaining about your blessings.  You can rip on your "unhelpful husband" because I probably know your husband- and he's not intentionally unhelpful, of course.  It's just that you don't want to have to remind him to take out the [bleeping] garbage 1,000 times before you lose your [bleep] and just take it out yourself sometime after bath time, in between the nine million other things you need to do before bedtime.

(As for considering myself "blessed" to have a faithful husband- excuse me while I run a quick source check to find out what decade/country this post was published in).

Moving on.

Please, complain to me about how "weary, exasperated and annoyed" you are because it will only validate my struggles with weariness, exasperation and annoyance.  And I promise I won't consider you "indignant" or ungrateful if you don't start every conversation by acknowledging that we are among "one of the most privileged species on the planet" (I think everyone's pretty pumped to be human, but what I think the author is really trying to say here is that we are lucky to be home with our kids...lucky to be part of the stay-at-home-ma-sapien species).

Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses of stained yoga-pant wearing moms and let us all "[moan] about the dust accumulation on [our] furniture, the temper tantrums in Target and the gas [we] burned hauling [our] children to baseball, ballet, and soccer practice."

Keep knocking on my door with your "greasy hair" and "caffeine withdrawals" and we will bond over our desires to maybe, one day go back to work, but only after we've witnessed those incredible baby milestones, of course- and then we will giggle because that very sentence explains the cluster [bleep] that is parenthood- our desire to achieve the parent/professional balance.

And I promise I will never tell you to "shut your piehole" or to "quit your whining"- mostly because that's crass, but also because I understand the value of venting about situations that are difficult and because I want to be a good friend and validate your feelings.  And also because I'm not a mean mom bully who thinks she deserves a badge because she "manages [to not] constantly sigh in disgust at [her] choice to care for [her] children or vent to anyone who will listen in the grocery store line about [her] unfulfilled life".

I'll listen because I understand the intricate complexities of choosing to be a SAHM and the past life regret that sometimes happens after shelf-ing the dimensional life you had before kids.

And to the author, Susannah- you are also welcome to come to my home and vent about how hard it is to be a SAHM when you don't have anymore SAHM friends after you offended all of them with your insensitive and pretentious post.


RELATED: "Blessings" that are ok to complain about sometimes
Your family
Your friends
Your Life, in general
Your job






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Thursday, October 9, 2014:

Have You Added Vitamin E to Your Beauty Routine?

Winter is coming!!  My skin is already starting to dry out- the sink loads of dishes don't help!

I wrote an article about the health & beauty benefits of vitamin E a few months ago and I continue to be impressed with it's moisturization properties.  So much so that I went ahead and bought another bottle!

I leave one in my medicine cabinet and add five drops* to my morning water and will occasionally use this on my cuticles.

Where's the other bottle?  Well, in my shower, of course!!

That's right- after a steamy shower- the most indulgent part of this stay-at-home mama's day- I put about a teaspoon of Vitamin E oil in my hand and slather it on.

My shins seem to get particularly dry so I start with those and work my way up, focusing on my knees and elbows and finishing with my face.  Vitamin E can be heavy so saving my face for last gives me just the right amount of oil without it being too heavy.

Have you tried vitamin E oil for Moisturization?  Do you think you will add it into your winter beauty rotation?

Here is what WebMD has to say about Vitamin E - Benefits


*Make sure you check the label of your Vitamin E brand as the recommended dosage may be different
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New Favorite Activity!

With both boys sick, we've been quarantined and spending too much time inside.  Desperate to get some fresh air, we've been spending a lot of time in the backyard but it's only a matter of minutes before the boys are asking to go for a walk or beyond the fence.

We were all a little cagey and craving some form of outdoor activity this morning.  I didn't want to introduce pink eye to the playground so instead I called in a pick-up order to Panera and headed to the fields for a picnic!  

I'm not sure why I never thought to do this before!  Two boys, a soccer ball, and an open field- we might just be adding this into our activity rotation (at least while the weather holds out!!).
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Wednesday, October 8, 2014:

No better way to throw off your productive plans than with....

A trip to the pediatricians!

So many activities planned for the day but in the matter of a speedy "bi-lateral conjunctivitis and ear infection" diagnosis, me and my sick bubby (and, considering the odds, my soon to be sick toddler bubby) will be in quarantine for the next 24hrs.

So, now we are off to the pharmacy- and we all know how I feel about the pharmacy.  

If you need us we will be slowly climbing the walls.
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Tuesday, October 7, 2014:

Dear Keurig, I Love You


I added a Keurig to my wedding registry and upon receipt, I placed it away in storage because I was a non-mom who got her coffee on the way to work or during long weekend brunches.  I never really needed my own coffee maker but it just seemed like something you should put on your wedding registry-- sort of like a standing mixer.

About three days into parenthood, while delirious with sleep-deprivation and while I should have been "sleeping while the baby slept", I was instead digging around a dusty closet looking for the unopened Keurig box.

After some dusting off and a quick rinse, I plugged this bad boy in and my mornings got just a little bit sweeter.

Keurig has literally held my hand through the 5:00am up-for-the-day wake up calls from my children and provided a cozy caffeinated hug during the wow-they-are-both-actually-napping afternoons.

As a non-morning person turned stay-at-home-mom, my Keurig is a close second to why I wake up in the morning (the first being my children- and not really in that sentimental definition, but more in the I-have-no-choice definition).

Making my coffee represents the small part of my morning routine dedicated to me.  The sound of the heating and brewing provides a satisfying soundtrack to the cereal, toast, yogurt, vitamins, milk sippy cup process that is my morning routine.

Moral of the story...if you don't have a coffee maker from your wedding registry, you should certainly add the Keurig to your baby registry :)

For more coffee-related content, click here


This is not a sponsored post
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Sunday, October 5, 2014:

What Will Your Workouts Look Like this Week?

This week I am going to make an effort to get back into my fitness routine.  I have one morning a week to myself (plenty of time for a run and groceries!).  I'm also a member of a gym with free childcare so I really don't have any excuse...it's just a matter of finding that motivation!

Here's what my schedule looks like this week.  What are you thinking?

Do you like sharing workout ideas?  Leave some intel in the comments for us (trying to get) motivated mamas!



Monday:
15 minute warm-up run 
2 sets of 3 hills (I'll run up a hill at about 70% and slow jog down a hill- three times.  Take a break.  And repeat again.  My goal is to get this rep up to 3x5!  Did I mention that hills are great for your butt er, I mean speed.  Hills are great for your speed.)
15 minute cool down

Tuesday:
Chasing around my little guy at Kidville.

Wednesday:
Gym (to work out, but mostly for their free childcare)
30 minute run on treadmill
Free weights (arms)

Thursday:
Rest

Friday:
Gym (see motivation above)
30 minute run on treadmill
Free weights (legs)

Saturday:
Long easy run

Sunday:
Long easy run



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Friday, October 3, 2014:

Happy Friday!

I hope your Friday is full of independent play and sibling cooperation :).  


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Wednesday, October 1, 2014:

Could Staying Home With My Kids Be The Best Thing For My Career?


--I'm not entirely sure if this post is truly ready for publication.  But I've sat with it for a few nights already and, try as I might, I can't make it tighter or more relevant.  So, I'll quote an old boss (funny based on the content of this post), "pencils down".--

Long before I had kids, I knew I was going to be a stay at home mom.  I'm not sure why or how, but I just knew, in my heart, that I would be home with my kids during their first years of life.

Nevertheless, I envied my co-workers who could be so caught up in a project that they'd pack up their laptops and overflowing folders so that they could "plug back in" when they got home.  I wanted to be as driven and passionate about my line of work.  But try as I might, I just wasn't.

Sure, occasionally I would log back on.  And my husband would argue that I would check my work emails way too frequently.  But that was less of an "impassioned professional" and more of a proactive "let's mitigate the amount of emails I need to respond to on Monday" approach.

I would respond to a few emails- cc'ing my boss so that she could see I was "still working" at 11:30pm.  I felt a certain amount of professional pride (look at me, burning the midnight oil!) while at the same time smuggly chanting, "Work to live, don't live to work people!"

Sometimes I felt conflicted by the idea of staying at home after so much money had been put into my education- - going so far as to run the numbers to see if my seven years in corporate america earned me enough to cover my Boston College education (it didn't, if you're wondering- not even before taxes).

Nonetheless, I was thrilled when my husband and I agreed we were ready to have a baby- the SAHM countdown could commence and I could lose the ambitious corporate work-horse charade. 

My pregnancy announcement was as good as my final resignation and if I could have had a drink, I would have toasted myself to celebrate the seven long years that this SAHM to-be spent in a role that she didn't really like all that much.  Cheers to that!

Fast forward...my life changed in a matter of irregular contractions and vacuum suctions.  

Here's the thing about babies... With jobs, you can quit.  But with babies, you can't.  I have never felt more trapped than when I was "living my dream" of being a stay at home mom.  A fellow blogger- Love is Blonde- described it as "the neverendingness"- and it is spot. on.   I was just so blown away at the neverendingness of it.  

I couldn't step out for lunch.  I couldn't shoot an email to my boss to get more clarity on a project.  I couldn't ask for additional support on managing a pitch.  I couldn't pack my bag at the end of the day and walk away from it all for the night.  It just never.ended.

Most of my lucid maternity leave moments were spent weighing the pros and cons of going back to work.  It offered a break from the relentless demands of parenting while opening the doors to the relentless demands of a boss.

I was beginning to realize that I may not have liked my job, but I did like to work- to be a part of a productive team that played a pivotal role in the assembly line of a project affecting the greater whole; to have relevant commentary among my professional peers beyond diaper changes and feeding schedules.  

I wanted to return to work to maintain a balance but I feared returning to work would take over my new mom role.  And on the other hand, I feared that resigning from professional work completely and being a parent full time would isolate me from the rest of society (it did) and leave me living a life on the social sidelines, watching my working mom (and non-mom) friends maintain their multi-dimensioned selves while I withered away to the single-dimensioned-ness that is stay-at-home parenthood.

I looked for part time work.  Some sort of parent/professional balance.  But there was nothing that paid me enough to justify the cost of childcare.

I would say out loud that I wanted to work, all while my internal SAHM instincts grappled with rational thoughts of returning to the workforce- almost as if my mouth was willing my brain (and heart) to change their minds.  

I couldn't believe that, for the foreseeable future, my life existed solely to establish the life of another being.  Day in. Day out.

And that's just what I did.  Playdates, parks, and pools.  Repeat.  For the last three years, I was the typical SAHM.  But beneath it all, there was always a desire to do more, to be more.

And slowly, in between naps and late night feedings, something was cultivating itself.  Somehow the repressiveness of motherhood was simply squeezing my ambition and realigning it in the direction I'm currently pointed in.  And while I can't sit here and type what it is that I am doing, what has given me energy, enthusiasm, and (if we're being honest), an escape- I know I am on track and I know I've found it.  And I am going to keep plugging away at it until something sticks.  Until I can say that choosing to stay at home with my kids has helped me create my career.




        

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Monday Mornings at the Grocery Store

Womp womp.  And yes, I realize it's Wednesday, but this mom operates on a two-day delay.


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Tuesday, September 30, 2014:

How Often Are You Washing Your Hair?

So this is one that us moms can appreciate!  Finally, a beauty benefit derived from sleep deprivation, time constraints, and a complete lack of attention to our own personal needs!!  Woop Woop!!  Hooray for no hair washing!!...sort of.

Ok, it's gross...and maybe I pushed the envelope my junior year in college when I went two weeks without a shampoo...but over-washing your hair can throw off your body's ability to balance natural oils on the surface of your scalp.

Often times when we wash with shampoo, we strip our hair of oils that help our hair and scalp stay moisturized and healthy.  This can result in dry and frizzy hair as well as split ends and breakage.  Ironically, it can also result in an increase of oil production as our body tries to counteract the drying effects of shampoo.

Of course it all depends on your hair type, but most professionals recommend washing your hair no more than three-times a week.  If you have color treated hair, long hair, or very curly hair, you might even be able to get away with once or twice a week!

Your hair may appear greasy when you first attempt to cut back, but over time, it should balance out and align to your cleaning schedule.  Start by washing every other day and slowly cut back- giving your scalp time to adjust to the new washing routine.  As you wean off from your washing, think ahead and try to wash only on days when you have important events (like date night, for example :).

Need some ideas on how to manage in between washes:

  • On the days you wash your hair, wear it down to show off your newly groomed 'do.  On subsequent days, opt for low pony tails or buns (hairstyles that are higher on your head may draw attention to the lower tiers of your hair which are often darker and may appear "dirty" next to lighter hair)
  • Limit hair products like gels and sprays as this contributes to build-up and can weigh hair down
  • Using a flat, bristled brush, comb out from your roots to help redistribute some of the oil
  • If your hair is light, you can sprinkle baby powder in your hand and run it through your roots to absorb some of the excess oil
Some folks think you can drop shampooing and conditioning altogether.  For more on that, check out this post I found.  I'm not there yet.  I respect it.  I'm just not...well, "there" yet.

A version of this post appeared in August 2014.
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Monday, September 29, 2014:

Today I Choose Positivity

Today I am really going to embrace my accomplishments.  I spend so much of my day worrying about what to do next- planning the next activity, the next meal, the next playdate, the next diaper change.  It can all be SO overwhelming at times.

But today I am going to sit back and really absorb and embrace my recent accomplishments.  And while some of the items on the list below may seem silly, to me, they are a big deal.  It marks a shift in my attitude, progress in parenthood, and hope!

  • I "slept in" until 6:45a (Thank you Liam and Finn)
  • I showered before Pre-K3 drop off
  • I went grocery shopping
  • I put away the groceries
  • I got a manicure
  • I got my eyebrows waxed
  • I've made it through to the next round with my Quirky Design
  • I DID NOT get the Kate Sommerville/QVC hosting job...but I DID get invited to audition for her!

As a full time stay at home mom to two boys, it is easy to lose sight of the personal progress I have made when my priority is the well-being of my children.  Taking time to sit and write down this list, even the silly things like a shower, make me more aware of the progress that I make everyday.

It's easy for me to identify the things that I did not do and to sink into a negative mindset (I DID NOT clean the house today.  I DID NOT get more milk.  I DID NOT put away the clean clothes.) than to acknowledge the things that I did do.  So today, I choose to acknowledge the small accomplishments and to be positive!....

Which, for the record, is A LOT easier when I DID get the kids to nap at the same time :).


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