Category: Lifestyle & Beauty Tips

  • Travel Talk: Style And Substance 35,000ft In The Air

    Travel Talk: Style And Substance 35,000ft In The Air

    The modern woman loves to travel. Not to generalize, but it’s fair to say the majority of females on this planet love to jet off to a new destination. There’s no better feeling than leaving work behind for a couple of weeks to soak in the sights of far-flung places. To get there, a plane journey is inevitable. This isn’t the 19th century when a three-month boat ride is the only option. You can land at your destination on the same day now.

    Flying seems like a walk in the park. Check-in online, get through security, and sit down and relax with in-flight entertainment. However, every woman understands the perils of being 35,000ft in the air. From a style perspective, it’s a nightmare. Looking good is a priority, yet comfort is essential too. No one should endure a long-haul flight in a figure-hugging dress.

    Striking a balance between style and substance in an aluminum tube isn’t straightforward. It’s not going to be an easy journey, ladies, but nothing is impossible with a splash of know-how and a pinch of determination. Here are the tricks of the trade to keep in mind.

    Wear Plenty Of Layers

    Airline companies are obsessed with onboard luggage. Don’t pack this, don’t bring this, and don’t do anything which involves common sense. Listen to the instructions and follow them to the letter. Otherwise, there will be a hefty fee and a dirty glance from an air stewardess waiting for you at the gate. If only there were a way around all of the silly rules and regulations.

    Wearing layers is on point. Firstly, the more you have on your person, the more space there is in your suitcase. Secondly, you can never second guess the weather. One city may be boiling hot and about to burst into flames and the other may be raining and windy. Extra layers fit comfortably into a carry-on bag and ensure you’re ready for any scenario.

    Stylistically, layers add contrast. Plus, they allow you to mix and match and show off your clothes collection. Even in the summer, it’s possible to layer-up without turning into a puddle. Check out Cosmopolitan for inspiration.

    And Breathe

    No, not in through your nose and out through your mouth. Although you shouldn’t stop breathing either or else they’ll be trouble. Carry on as normal and let your lungs do the work. Breathing in this regard is a reference to the materials on your body. Clothes come in different shapes, sizes and fabrics, and the ones you wear on a plane are essential.

    To begin with, it’s important to wear things that are light and have breathable qualities. After all, being cooped up on an airplane can get hot and sweaty at times. Even with air conditioning, it’s a sticky place to be for ten hours. Clothes that keep the air flowing should limit the damage and stop you from looking like a hot mess.

    Thankfully, there isn’t a better time to wear light fabrics than in the summertime. Donning thick, heavy materials is a terrible idea because of the temperatures. So, a t-shirt and shorts combination will look perfect when the sun is shining. To mix it up a little, try getting creative with patterns. Graphic T’s aren’t as popular as a couple of years ago yet there are some trendy ones on the market. Bring back boho chic with a sunhat and shades.

    Pick Comfy Shoes

    Footwear is the final piece of the jigsaw along with accessories. The right shoes can transform an outfit from good to great with minimal effort. Of course, there is a temptation to go big because it feels like the correct move. Nothing looks as sexy or stunning as a woman in heels. The problem is your comfort; they’re called killer heels for a reason!

    Flats are the best choice as they are snug and don’t cause throbbing or blisters. Plus, you can slip them off while in your seat and let them breathe. The reason flats aren’t an automatic choice is style. In the past, they weren’t fashionable enough. Some looked as if you were about to take part in a gym class.

    Nowadays, it’s all changed as crocs, sandals and flip-flops come in a variety of colors and patterns. Find out more by clicking the link. A good tip is to choose a finish which matches your mood or personality. And, teach your grandmother to suck eggs, but they have to coordinate with the rest of the outfit.

    Try Compression Legwear

    You’re not pregnant nor do you have a pre-existing medical condition. So, why on earth would you both with compression legwear? Well, it’s a good question if you think leggings, sock and shoes are only for the people mentioned. In reality, anyone on a long-haul flight should consider legwear to combat swelling and inflammation. All it takes is a handful of veins to struggle and the circulation will slow down, causing aches and pains.

    No one wants to look like a medical patient, which is why the idea is met with resistance. But, be aware that compression leggings look precisely the same as ones from the supermarket. In fact, they’re available from all good stores and some bad ones too.

    You can check out the rules here, but leggings with a summery shirt always go down well. So do tank tops and crop tops.

    A post shared by Airport style! (@itgirltravel) on

    Go Baggy

    Loose-fitting clothes aren’t stylish according to conventional wisdom. Women who wow are the ones that exploit tailored numbers. Figure-hugging is good whereas baggy is bad. At least, that’s the myth. As it happens, it is a falsehood and one to forget.

    Baggy clothes can look amazing as long as you match them with the right features. Think of a sundress. There is nothing tight or restricting about it, yet it’s colorful and vibrant and comfy. The same goes for an oversized shirt and three-quarter length pants. If you need help, hit up Refinery 29 for more.

    How do you stay stylish and practical while touching the sky?


    Contributed Post

     

  • Confidence Tips From A Mom, Sleepologist, and Confidence Expert

    As you know, last week, we began a new series where we asked everyday women about confidence.  We all go through ups and downs in life.  But it is not what we go through, it’s how we get through it that counts.  In my opinion, confidence is key in it all.  I mean if you don’t believe it, you can’t achieve it right?  Confidence is important whether you are starting a new business or going out on a first date.  Which is why I wanted to know what other ladies thought about it.   We asked a mom, sleep expert, and confidence expert; “What makes you feel confident?”

    pic of Becky Mckeown

    “When I need a little extra boost I put on my colored contacts and sexiest heels while listening to 80s music which always gives my sexy back. I have survived 30 surgeries so sometimes those pity party so hit but fastest way I beat it!!”

    – Becky McKeown; Mother/RN

    Sveti Williams

    I am a Sleepologist (sleep consultant) I help people sleep well. I teach seminars for corporate businesses, everyday crowds and schools on how to sleep well. I always need to look and be confident as I stand on stages in front of big audiences. My biggest help is : wearing makeup particularly my eye liner and red lipstick. Without eyeliner I can’t speak I get shy and lose my momentum in stage. I have to have it for my confidence. Without makeup I feel small, unattractive and even pale and sick.

    – Sveti Williams; Sleepologist

    erika cramer

    “I am a confidence coach. I specialise in empowering women to reclaim their confidence and step into their FULLY expressed selves with no filter. Being who they are as is. And knowing that they are enough.”  – Erika Cramer; Confidence Coach

    Thoughts on their tips? Or have one you’d like to share??? Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • I Learned The Power Of A Vision Board

    I Learned The Power Of A Vision Board

    I’ve always been one to write things down.  From my wants, needs, goals, etc.  When I was younger, it was a diary.  When I became a young adult, it was post it notes.  I had tons of yellow post it notes all over my bedroom mirror.  Although, now that I think about it…all of those post it notes were traits that I wanted in a man. 🙈  (P.S…it worked!)

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    As technology progressed, I started to keep my thoughts on a laptop secured with a super long password.  Everyone couldn’t know about my goals.  Because the unsolicited advice would come pouring in.  No thanks.  Once things were happening from my list  like losing weight, saving money; I started to notice something was happening.

    I went from writing things down to saying them aloud after reading a book about the power of words.  I will tell my fiancé my minute by minute plan for the day; before h has had a chance to to wash the crust out of his eyes in the morning.  What I envision for  BLB and FNF is something that I’m constantly talking during a 3 hour phone conversation with my mom.  I’ve stopped a heated discussion with my brother about a basketball game to say,

    “I am going to design an athleisure dress that everyone will love.”

    I’m relentless!  Each time, they give that; why are you telling me this look.  It’s like letting the universe and (God) know what I’m trying to accomplish. And it holds me accountable.  Once I say it, I feel like I have to do it.  Period.

    During one of my rants; I mentioned wanting to start a vision board.  I hadn’t gotten around to it until Christmas of last year.  When I opened a oversized cork board with stick pins.  I knew exactly what it was for.  Was he trying to tell me; “Shut up and put it on your board!”

    The board was empty until around January.  I had committed to creating designs for the SPIRIT Fashion Show.  Since this was going to the first show to feature the FNF Collection, this seemed like a perfect time to start.   Before the show, I had never sewn a complete outfit.  After all wad said and done…I made 3 dresses by myself!  With the help of a my mom and aunt; 5 complete looks were done just in time for the show.

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    After shipping the box, I sat on the couch distressing and caught a glance of my vision board.  Design a Dress Collection, Be A Game Changer, and dress sketches stared at me.  That damn vision board!  5 awesomely made dresses sent to Carnegie Mellon University.  I’ve been talking about designing my own dress collections before Blue Labels Boutique or Fashion Not Fear was ever a thought.  But now that it’s pinned on the board….it happens??  🤔

    Since that day, I’ve been pinning goals like a mad woman.  Positive affirmations, dream homes, future collections, the model of how the BLB store will look…this board has it all.  Don’t worry; I’ll keep you posted!

    What about you?  Do you believe is the power of a vision board or sharing your goals?  Tell me your story in the comments…

    Stay Fearless  💋

  • We Asked Every Day Women, “What Makes You Feel Confident?”

    Part of living fearlessy is confidence.  As a matter of fact, 99% of being a fearless woman is having confidence in yourself and your abilities.  Because whether or not other people think you can achieve something means absolutely nothing.  At the end of it all, it all comes down to you.  If YOU don’t believe it, you won’t achieve it.  I truly believe that.  This is why I feel confidence is key when it comes to your fearless journey.

    You can be the most confident woman in the world but there will come a time when you have a down day.  It’s totally normal.  Would you agree?  That is why I reached out to other women to see what they do to build up their confidence.  The response was so overwhelming that I decided to break in down into a mini series.  These woman had some awesome words of confidence t share.  And I didn’t want you to miss any of them.  Take a look at what these everyday women had to say when asked, “What makes you feel confident?”

    picture of Martha Krejci

    “I wake up around 6:30am, stumble into the kitchen for my first cup of joe. First things first. That sets the tone. I sit at the kitchen table at 7am and think about all of the good things in my life. Write them down and show real, genuine gratitude for them. …another tip is a gratitude journal, and not just the I’m thankful for this and that, but ADDING 10 new things to an ever growing list every single day. It trains you to see the good, and because of that, creates amazing days. I PREACH to do it in the morning instead of before you go to bed for this very reason. These are all things that not only help you be a morning person, but make you EXCITED to live your day, and even better, excited to live your LIFE! :)”
    – Martha Krejci, Co-Founder and CEO of TribeFinder

    pic of Mariette Reineke

    “For me confidence does not come from a dress, something I have to do or from anything outside of myself. What I have learned over the years and what I am still learning, is that presence is key. In other words: connecting with my body and having a relationship with myself. The more present I am, so my mind and body with what I am doing and not wondering off and checking out to the past or future, the more confident I feel. When I am with myself, simply being me, I feel a sense of knowing that whatever is in front of me, I can handle. Why? Because I am present with it. My body knows what to do next.”

    – Mariette Reineke, Journalist/Blogger 

    eugenia pepper

    I am a closest introvert. People don’t realise how shy I really am.  I have lots of tricks that I have used to overcome my shyness.  “Fake it to you make it” does work.   I visualise myself as confidence.  I used hypnosis and guided meditations for confidence. I started was in high school and it really helped and now I have become a hypnotherapist myself and have developed an app that had just been released.  Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness and Meditation do work to gain confidence and a better self image and can help you become more confident and step out of your introvert shell.  Body language is very important and adapting stances can make a big different.  When you are lacking confided or feeling nervous change your body posture – do a victory pose or wonder women pose and it can change you physiology, mood and mindset.  The photo above is of a surprise party for me. I was so nervous I did not want to enter on seeing a group of people with cameras all faced at me! My first instinct was to run away but knowing my training I knew I had to do the victory pose and embrace the moment and it worked.

    – Eugenie Pepper, Author of KEY MINDFULNESS – THE KEY FOR ME

    Thoughts on their awesome tips?  Or do you have a confidence tip to share??  Let me know in the comments.  Stay tuned for the next set of ladies!

     

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • How to Dress for a Festival Whatever the Weather

    How to Dress for a Festival Whatever the Weather

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    Image Credit: Pexels 

    Summer is all about the festivals and there have never been so many to choose from. All around the world, people are getting together to watch some incredible performances from rock music to folk music, jazz to classical and everything else you can think of.

    The only problem is deciding what to wear!

    There are lots of festivals going on around the world this summer but as most festivals are held either outside or in tents, the weather is going to affect your decision about what to wear. But what if the festival lasts a full week?

    Here’s what you need to pack.

    Layer it Up!

    When you go to a festival for a few days, you can’t reasonably predict what the weather will be like and, depending where you go, the weather could be changeable even if you’re just going for the day. The key thing is to wear layers. Pick up a cute and brightly colored rain mac, put a light sweater in your backpack and wear a thin t-shirt underneath. This way you have layers to add if there’s a sudden chill in the air or if the rain pours in.

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    Image Credit: Pexel

    If you are staying for a few days, thinner layers and lots of them are much better than just a couple of thick layers because they will dry out faster if you are caught in a storm. Plus, you will have a few more wardrobe options without weighing yourself down! Have a look at this festival list to check off everything you need.

    Go Crazy with Fashion Combos

    One of the great joys of festivals is that the usual fashion rules are suspended while you make the most of face paint, glitter and feathers. You have the power to unleash your inner tribal princess so don’t hold back – buy everything on Madam Lulu’s Alternative Marketplace just for starters!

    Take your own clothes (obviously) but be prepared to buy new things while you are there too. Lots of festivals have stalls selling clothes and all sorts so get into the spirit and spread your cash around. Loose fitting pantaloon-style pants are great for relaxing at night and much more comfortable jeans so definitely see if you can find some of those around.  

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    Image Credit: Pexels

    Which Shoes?

    Choosing the right shoes depends on the type of festival you are going to as well as how long you will be there. Sandals and mules are great for slipping on and off but aren’t brilliant for walking long distances. Wellies and walking boots are good for mud and a lot of walking but can get quite hot if you are in the sun all day.

    The best thing to do is to take some sensible shoes like walking boots and then carry some slip-ons in your bag to change into later. This way you will be able to keep up with everyone as you walk but won’t feel too hot when you arrive.

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    So now you have a plan for your festival wardrobe, it’s time to let your hair down and enjoy yourself!

  • 5 Tips to Create Your Own Workout Routine

    Whether you are looking to start your first workout session or have been neglecting your fitness for a while, there is a perfect routine out there. To help you find it, we have listed a couple of things to consider before creating a plan to lose weight, feel lighter and healthier, and look after your mind and body better in the future.

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    Image via Pixel

    1. Know Your Limitations

    Before you start planning, it is important that you consider your own limitations. You should have realistic goals when it comes to building strength and losing weight. If you have allergies, you will not be able to work out in the park during the spring and the summer, and have to find an indoor activity. If you have past injuries that limit your ability to lift or bend, you will have to find a gentle form of exercise, such as water aerobics, swimming, or yoga.

    1. Check Out Free Videos First

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    Image via pixel

    Before you would get too excited and join the first fitness class, you should check out the different styles of instruction and the moves. Yoga has dozens of different versions, for example. Vinyasa yoga is the most dynamic, but some instructors combine it with HIIT to get you faster results. Try a couple of sample videos before you decide which form of exercise is the right for you, so you don’t end up wasting your money on programs that don’t work for you.

    1. Consider How Much Free Time You Have

    It is also important to stay realistic about your availability. If you work full time, you need time to rest and relax, and you cannot spend every night in the fitness center. If you have limited time, try to start with building strength. Choose the right equipment and clothing by visiting Garage Gym Builder, so you are prepared for the challenge, and commit to a program.

    1. Schedule Your Time Off

    You will have to stick with a routine to make it work for you. It is possible that you will have to make adjustments to your daily schedule and wake up earlier than usual on some days. You could also skip lunch and have a late dinner if you spend time exercising. No matter what you need to do to stick with your workout routine and stay motivated, you will not see results without commitments and sacrifices.

    1. Adjust Your Diet

    Whatever your chosen workout routine is you will need to adjust your diet to the changing needs of your body. You might want to swap your morning yogurt to protein shakes to give you more energy and help you build strength. You could also find some magnesium and zinc rich food sources, or even food supplements to support your body in developing muscles and burning fat.

     

    If you are planning on creating your own workout routine instead of seeking advice from a fitness instructor, you will need to consider the needs of your body first. Second, make sure you have enough time to spare and can stay committed to the schedule.

     

  • With Summer On Its Way, Your Wardrobe Needs To Slay

     

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    Picture Source

    There’s something about summer that makes us lose our minds. We come out of hibernation to enjoy the outdoor world again, and fashion suddenly starts to become important to everyone. However, you might have taken a quick look at your clothing options and felt a little uninspired. It might be time to rethink your fashion sense. With summer on its way, your wardrobe needs to slay. These pointers should help you to get the perfect summer look.

    Focus on the right materials and colors.

    It’s important to be practical when you’re considering your wardrobe options during summer. If you’re going to face high temperatures in your town or city then you need to make sure that you’re buying appropriate clothes for the weather ahead of you. Still, this can help your fashion. Brightly-colored clothing looks best during this sunny season, and it’ll also keep you cooler (lighter colors reflect sunlight, whereas darker colors absorb it). You also need to be careful with the fabrics you wear too. Again, this can be a practical option as a well as a fashionable one. Cotton and linen are very breathable fabrics, for starters. Surprisingly, silk is a natural and cooling material too; so, you know which fabric you should choose for formal evening wear.

    You can transform an outfit with accessories.

    Remember that accessories should be the centerpiece of any outfit. A sleek belt might seem like a subtle addition to your skirt and blouse combination, for example, but it can serve to tie the whole thing together (literally and figuratively). Accessorizing is the best way to give an outfit that extra “wow” factor. It can be a practical addition, too. You could get yourself a nice bag that serves as a pretty accessory to your look and stores your sunscreen, purse, sunglasses, and other summer essentials.

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    Find attire for multiple occasions.

    Unless we’re talking about a wedding dress, what’s the point of buying a fashion piece that you can only wear for one occasion? Even if we’re talking about buying a piece of clothing that you can wear more than once, you’re wasting wardrobe space on pieces that you can only wear for certain formal (or informal) occasions. The best way to make your wardrobe slay this summer is to fill it with clothing that can be worn on multiple different occasions. You don’t want to buy hundreds of different outfits just so that you have something for every conceivable scenario.

    You could shop now for cocktail dresses and other classy outfits that look sweet and summery. Think of the vibe you’re trying to create with your outfits. Floral dresses of a casual yet elegant style could work at a formal event such as a dinner party or a casual day at the park with your friends. And a blouse and skirt that you might wear on a day out in your local town can be turned into office-appropriate attire with the simple addition of a blazer. The point is that a small wardrobe shouldn’t stop you from having plenty of outfits to wear this summer. You can make a few items of clothing go a long way. Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to wear the same skirt or top every single day, as we’ll discuss in the next point.

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    Picture Source

    You need to mix and match.

    Continuing from the previous point, your wardrobe doesn’t need to overflow with clothes in order for it to be varied. A true fashion guru knows how to mix and match when it comes to their wardrobe. If you cycle between the same few tops then you could switch them up by coupling them with different jackets or other shirts on top, for example. Referring back to the point we made about accessorizing earlier, the addition of a belt could completely transform a dress too.

    The point is that you should buy individual pieces of clothing rather than entire outfits. That way, you can mix and match different fashion items with one another rather than having to wear the same top and skirt together every time you pull those pieces of clothing out of the wardrobe. Being fashionable is about being creative. That’s good advice for any season, but it’s particularly important during summer when the weather is nice and you spend a lot of time outside. You need to keep your look fresh.

    Remember to always go for the timeless look.

    Isn’t it frustrating that you end up worrying about your wardrobe every summer? We’ve all been there. Maybe that crop top doesn’t look as fashionable as it did a few years ago, or maybe there’s simply a new trend that you want to follow. And the cycle continues. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. If you want to avoid updating your wardrobe every single summer then you could invest in fashion pieces that are timeless. If you avoid following trends then your clothing will look good year after year. It’s as simple as that. Classic looks aren’t always old-fashioned. For example, you might want to opt for simple outfits such as denim dresses; this is a classic look that never goes out of style.

    Don’t forget the importance of comfort.

    Fashion doesn’t have to hurt. Understanding fashion might seem painful, but we hope this article has helped in that regard. Still, the point is that you should feel comfortable in the clothes you wear. And cozy clothes don’t have to be ugly. Okay, you probably don’t want to leave the house in your dressing gown, but there are plenty of ways to dress fashionably and comfortably. The “indoor look” is becoming more fashionable in the outdoor world anyway. Just make sure that your outfit is still appropriate. You might look out of place in a onesie outdoors. However, cozy joggers can look and feel great, whether you’re on the couch or in your local shop. Fashion is simply about nailing the balance of practicality and aesthetic.

  • How To Dress Stubborn Children With No More Tears

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    Pexels

    Do you always dread the mornings? Not because you find it hard getting out of bed yourself, but because it’s your kids who cause you the trouble. They might find it hard waking up before school and getting them dressed can turn into a bit of a nightmare! After all, have you ever tried to dress a very sleepy child who is an extremely fussy dresser? If so, you will know all of the tears and tantrums that this will bring to your morning routine! It can seriously slow you down and add a lot of unnecessary time and stress to your morning. That’s certainly not the best start to the day for you or your children!

     

    So, how do you get over the problem of fussy children who are very particular about what they wear? Some parents might not be bothered about this as it shows that their child is developing their own sense of style. This is true to a certain degree, but, at the end of the day, it can also be extremely frustrating when you just need everyone to get dressed so that you can get everyone out the door and to where they need to be.

    Sick of all the tears and tantrums in the morning? Here are some tips that can help you dress stubborn children.

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    Pexels

     

    Get Clothes Ready The Night Before

     

    One way you can really cut down time when dressing your children, whether they are fussy or not, is to get all of their clothes ready the night before. You should pick out their clothes for the day together so that they also get a say in what they wear. Plus, this gives them the chance to get used to tomorrow’s outfit – if they have any qualms or issues about what clothes you are laying out for them, they can let you know now. That way, you can switch any outfit pieces while you have plenty of time and not when you are in a rush the next morning!

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    Distract With Audio Books Or Podcasts

    Do your kids always complain about the actual act of getting dressed? If they aren’t quite fashion-focused, they might not be too bothered about the clothes you put on them, they could just be annoyed that they have to get dressed in the first place! So, if your kids are always asking to stay in their PJs or just love to complain about getting dressed in general, you should try distracting them with audio books or podcasts. They’ll be too busy listening to something entertaining that they won’t take much notice at what you are dressing them in!

     

    Buy Clothes That Are Easy To Put On

    If your kids are still quite young, they might struggle with intricate fashion pieces and garments that are difficult to put on. This could even be the case when you help them. So, it’s a good idea to stick with items of clothing that are really easy to pull on. For instance, jumpers and t-shirts that they just have to slip on over their heads and elasticated trousers and jeans that just need pulling up. Try and keep clothing that requires on buttons and zips to a minimum.

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    Look For Trendy Pieces

    Of course, all kids want to be as cool and trendy as possible, so will be very excited about wearing trendy items of clothing. If you click here, you will see some really cute designer garments that are all just for kids. If you pull out a Dolce and Gabbana sweater or a pair of Gucci jeans, for instance, I’m sure that your child will be all over them. In fact, your son or daughter might be ever so excited about wearing these hip pieces of clothing, they might start getting straight out of bed as soon as they wake up – no more complaints about how tired they are!

     

    Take Them Shopping With You

    Are you not sure what is considered hip or trendy right now? I’m sure you will know what is fashionable for someone of your age, but it’s fair enough if you aren’t too sure what all the kids are wearing these days. Fashion seems to come and go so quickly, especially when aimed at the younger generations! So, it’s a good idea to take your kids shopping with you whenever you need to get them any clothes. They will know exactly what they like and what they want to wear. That way, you won’t end up buying something that they refuse to wear!

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    Always Keep Receipts

    You should, hopefully, already be keeping all the receipts for your clothes until you are 100% sure that you are happy with your items. This is especially important when it comes to the clothes that you buy for your children. After all, kids regularly change their minds and what they like when they are in the shop might not be what they like once they get home. So, be sure to keep the tags on the clothes on until they wear the garments out and about for the first time. You should also keep the receipts until then too, so you can always return the items for a refund if your children change their minds about them.

     

    Be Patient

    You should always be very patient with your children when it comes to getting dressed in the morning. Give them time to wake up and get ready for the day. Just because they start complaining as you start dressing them, it doesn’t mean that they are completely unhappy about the clothes you are giving them. They could just be a bit cranky after being woken up! So, be patient and you should find that they come around to their usual selves in no time at all.

    Hopefully, all of the tips in this blog post can help you crack the problem of stubborn children in the morning. Once you use these tips, you should find they get dressed without any more complaints and tears!

     

  • I Took A Quiz About Being Fearless From A 2010 “O” Magazine.  This Is What I Found…

    I Took A Quiz About Being Fearless From A 2010 “O” Magazine. This Is What I Found…

    A few weeks ago, my fiancé and I were helping my mom with some Spring cleaning in my parents garage.  “This is going to be donated” and “This is going in the trash” were two of my most popular rants off the day after going through box after box of things I deemed “unnecessary”.  Until I ran across an Oprah Magazine from November 2010.   What made it different from all of the other magazines that went into the recycling bin is what was on the cover:  The Quiz That Reveals Whats Holding You Back and Helps You Move On page 176.   This was a sign.  I was meant to find this, right?!

     

    opera 2010 magazine
    I stashed the mag in my bag.  I can’t be caught keeping an old ass magazine when I had been going off all afternoon about how she needed to get rid of them.  Ya feel me?!  Nevertheless, after a long day of cleaning.  I went home, poured a glass of red and turned to page 176.   “What’s Holding You Back?”  8 questions will help me find out, huh?!  Well, let’s see what happens….
    oprah magazine 2010
    My answers ended up being mostly “E” responses on odd numbers and mostly “A” responses on even numbers.  Apparently, I’m ready for change.
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    I can’t say that I was too surprised about the results.  Truth is, if I would’ve taken the quiz 5 years ago, the results would be COMPLETELY different.  I’ve been through everything question on the quiz.  Let me explain…
    quiz oprah 2010 magazine

    #1. Working in an office setting for over 13 years, so I knew all too well what is was like to to apply for another department.  I also knew getting declined all of the time because the managers’ friend was a better fit for the position, all too well.

    #2.  I started a business which helps to support me.  Which means, I have no desire to return to an un-fulfilling 9 to 5.   But 5 years ago, leaving a job to make money solely off my business made me want to faint.

    #3. I’ve always found happiness getting paid to do something else but it was much lower.  5 years ago, all i cared about the paycheck.  Now, it’s more than that.

    #4.  My boss has gotten fired.  5 years ago, I would’ve stayed.  Now, I would’ve taken that spot with no hesitation.

    #5. I have heard from the doctor that my body was reacting to stress.  5 years ago, that stressed me out.  Now, I shake stress off.  No time in my life for that to linger.

    #6. I did leave a long-term job to pursue my dreams.  5 years ago, I would’ve begged and pleaded to keep the job.

    #7. I started talking about owning a boutique before shopping online was a “thing”.  5 years ago, I didn’t think BLB would exist.  Look at me now!

    #8.  I did work in a bank but for much longer than 8 years.  And most of that was spent hating that I had to sit behind a desk all day.  I was drawn to fashion.  5 years ago, I would’ve stayed behind that desk and complained until retirement.  Now, if it doesn’t make me feel good, I’m out.  Period.

    After taking the quiz, I took a second to reflect on my fearless journey, so far.  I never realized just how far I have come.  Granted, I’m not where I want to be.  But I’m surely not where I was.  There was a time when I let fear hold me back from doing anything.  I didn’t want to disrupt what I thought was “normal”.  I didn’t want to go against the grain.  I just followed along to get along because that’s what I thought I was supposed to do.  But those days are long gone!
    oprah 2010
    Take the quiz, check out the results, and let me know, “What’s holding you back?”  in the comments…
    Stay Fearless 💋
  • 7 Daily Mantras To Get A Fearless Woman Through The Week

    7 Daily Mantras To Get A Fearless Woman Through The Week

    Being fearless doesn’t mean you won’t get scared shitless of things, of course you will be.  You are human!  It just means that you are willing to push past the fear to see whats on the other side.  There will be days when you feel like accepting fear, simply because its’ easier.  Here are a weeks’ worth of mantras to get you through those days…

    *weeklyfearlessmantras*

    The next time you are having one of those days, look in the mirror and repeat.  😉 Which of these are you feeling??  Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋