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8 Ways to Adjust to the End of Daylight Saving Time

The end of Daylight Saving Time can be difficult to adjust to, but there are ways to get through it. Sure for one night you get an extra hour of sleep but the entire process can mess up your internal clock for weeks after the change.

According to the Better Sleep Council, about 60% of American adults need a couple weeks to recover from Daylight Saving Time. Luckily, there are some simple, inexpensive sleep aids available to help. These tips will help you adjust to the seasonal time change by improving your sleep at night and so you wake up fresh in the morning ready to take on the day.

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Be comfortable at night. We know the benefits of a great pair of pajamas. They don’t just make you look good, they will ensure that you get solid and productive sleep at night. Choose your pajamas based on your individual needs so for instance, if you get warm at night lighter fabrics are the way to go. If you’re someone who doesn’t like to feel confined, go for a loose fitting pair of pjs or a nightshirt. Whatever your style, you’ll find the perfect pair right here on our site!

Blackout

Install blackout shades or curtains. One way to adjust to the end of Daylight Saving time is by installing dark window in your bedroom. These coverings block out sunlight and give you a really dark room which creates an ideal sleeping environment by stimulating the production of melatonin, which signals the brain to sleep. As an extra benefit, heavy dark window treatments can help insulate a room and minimize noise.

 

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Wear a sleep mask. If blackout curtains are not an option, try wearing a sleep mask to block out light early in the morning. They are quite comfortable and make all the difference in the world when it comes to getting your rest and not waking up too early. And, they are quite fashionable so you’ll look fantastic while you snooze!

Sound Machine

Use a sound machine. White noise machines help you get a better quality night’s sleep by masking other noises that disturb your sleep. Not only can they help you get to sleep but also stay asleep, and may even help to train your brain to know when it’s time to hit the sack.

End Nap

Shortening or eliminating a child’s nap. This transition is tricky, and you’ll need to make sure your child is ready for it. Normally, naps are taken in the afternoon which gives them more energy to make it through the rest of the day. By eliminating this nap, your child will be more tired when it’s time for bed and keeping their sleep schedule from being thrown off.

Alarm

Setting an alarm to go to bed earlier. Setting an alarm to go to bed earlier can be one of the easiest ways to adjust to the end of Daylight Saving Time. Most people find that sleeping between the hours of 10 pm and midnight is the most restful, and by setting an alarm, you can make the change easier. But you should remember to change the clock before you go to bed so you won’t end up playing the “it’s really XX o’clock” game.

Phone off

Turn technology off. The light from your phone, tablet, or computer stimulates the brain and makes it more difficult to fall asleep. Turn off the phone and read a book or take a warm bath to unwind. The general rule of thumb is to avoid screens for at least two hours before bed.

Whole Grain

Eat earlier and smarter. Try eating at earlier in the evening so your body has time to digest the food. Avoid spicy and fatty foods, and choose healthy proteins and whole grains instead. Another thing to avoid is caffeinated drinks later in the day so you have time to pass the caffeine through your system.

No need to go out. Try a pajama date night at home!

Looking for something fun to do with your special someone? Restaurants, movie theaters, and all the popular hot spots are once again crowded so for your next date night, why not do something special in the comfort of your own home? Something like an evening in pajamas!  It’s intimate, cozy, and it might be the last chance you get to spend quality time together before the hustle and bustle of the upcoming holiday season takes over.

We’ve put together a few ideas to help you plan a romantic, fun, and memorable pajama date night you’re sure to enjoy!

 

 

Commit to staying in your pajamas. The fun of doing so will add a different element to your date night and pajamas are perfect for staying cozy on a cold night.  You can even find pajamas printed with hearts and warm colors, as well as messages that express your love for your partner to make it super romantic.

Fort

Make a blanket fort in the living room: What’s a night in pajamas without a cozy place to snuggle up? Take a step back in time and build a blanket fort in your living room. Use couch cushions, blankets, and sheets to build it and if you want to make the fort even more romantic, consider hanging some twinkle lights. In addition, you can add fun decorations such as heart-shaped balloons and banners.

Gazing

Star gaze. Another great way to celebrate is to sit outside under the stars.  You can lie on the blankets, share some champagne, and reminisce. Or you could make it educational by using a constellation and planet finder app to identify what you’re viewing.

Games

Play games. Playing games with your partner can add a romantic element to your date night. Some fun ideas include karaoke, name that tune, and commandeering the kids’ gaming system. Other ideas include board games like checkers and try making it make it more fun by replacing the pieces with chocolates and feeding them to each other.  You could really spice things up by adding romantic penalties to the games or having an old-fashioned pillow fight.

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Make something sweet. Making homemade treats is a fun way to spend time creating something together and… it will make your house smell delicious. Remember, chocolate is an aphrodisiac!

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Watch scary movies. Halloween is also upon us so why not get in the mood by getting comfy on the couch and watching scary movies? Horror films are perfect for hiding under the blankets and getting close to each other. We even have a list of recommended flicks!

Date night is for spending quality time together- just the 2 of you – so make it special and memorable.

 

8 Must Have Fall Essentials

Autumn is officially here and like it or not, it’s time to pack away summer and think of cooler temperatures and shorter days.

Switching seasons means you should think about the things you’ll need to get you through until spring arrives. We’d like to share our favorite fall essentials that we have found to make the transition easier.

The right pajamas. Because the temperatures can be all over the place in fall, it’s necessary to have a variety of pajamas that you can choose between.  You don’t want to be too hot, nor should you be cold when you sleep. Comfort is key as it ensures a good night’s rest which in turn makes for more productive days. From lighter cotton to flannels and footies, make sure you have choices.

Books

A few good books. On the days when the weather is blustery and cold and you don’t want to go anywhere, there’s nothing like curling up in your most comfortable pajamas and a cozy blanket with a good book. Pick up several books because as we all know, there will be plenty of opportunities in the upcoming months to hunker down.

Teas

A variety of tea. When you’re curled up in your favorite pajamas reading a good book, there is nothing like a hot cup of tea to complete the mood. We recommend having a variety to choose from so that you can pick the one that suits your mood. We prefer herbal teas because they help you relax and many can provide immune defense and other health-related properties. With so many brands and flavors on the market to choose from you’re sure to find tons of tasty options.

Moisturizer

A heavier moisturizer. The change of season also means drier air both indoors and outdoors which can take its toll on your skin.  A good moisturizer will provide protection and keep your skin healthy and happy.

Baking

Baking ingredients. There’s something about fall that brings out the Julia Child in us. Make sure you have all the supplies in your pantry now so that when the urge to bake hits, you’ve got everything you need to make those yummy pies, sweetbreads, and cakes.

Fall candles

Fall-scented candles. Enhance every fall day with scented candles that fit the season. From pumpkin spice to warm vanilla, even the dreariest of days can be significantly uplifted with your favorite scent wafting through your home.

Cooker

A working slow cooker. Pull out the slow cooker or crock pot and plug it in to make sure it works because it’s chili, beef stew, and pot roast season. There’s nothing better than comfort food during the colder months.  Plus… a slow cooker makes meal time way easier so you have more time to hibernate.

Prog. Therm

A programmable thermostat. OK so this isn’t as glamorous or as fun as the others however it’s a must; especially these days when prices of everything including heat are through the roof. If you don’t already have a programmable thermostat, it’s time to look into one. Keep your home comfortable without spending an arm in a leg to do so.

Fall isn’t all bad, we have plenty of warm weather days and the colors in many parts of the country are breathtaking but we all know that there will be some not-so-pleasant days as well. If you have some of these essentials it will make staying in so much better!

Mastering the art of slowing down

If you feel your life is going too fast, mastering the art of slowing down is essential for achieving success. It’s an actual skill to step back and choose what is most important to you. If we can make the most of our days without rushing through things, we can be more productive.

Learning how to slow down your pace can start in the small moments of everyday life. For example, the way you start your day sets the tone for the rest of your day. By taking the time to intentionally begin your day, you will feel less stressed and rushed throughout your day. If you’re ready to ride in the slow lane for a bit, give these tried and true tips a go.

Deep Breath

Deep Breathing. The art of deep breathing can help you relax and reduce your stress levels. It activates the vagus nerve which is involved in the regulation of our physiological responses and acts as a neural brake. During a deep breath, the heart rate slows down and the breathing pattern becomes slow and deep. This process can decrease your feelings of anxiety and depression.

Meditate. Slowing down through meditation involves tapping into the breath and by doing so we calm the mind, reduce reactivity, and power the frontal lobes of the brain. We can use this technique to slow down time so that we can choose the right things to do at the right time.

Yoga

Yoga. This practice requires you to pay attention to the present moment and refine your awareness and perception. We tend to be so wrapped up in our daily activities that we often become oblivious to the quiet part within us. Our mind demands outward stimulation so it is very important to take time to dive into your inner world.

reading

Engage Nature. Take time away from business and reconnect with nature. This can be and variety of activities, including taking a walk, reading a book outdoors, or simply sitting and listening to nature’s soothing sounds. If possible, leave technology indoors.

Focus on the moment. It’s not all about slowing yourself down, it’s about practicing mindfulness. Being mindful means directing your attention toward the present moment and taking inventory of your surroundings and the people around you. In other words, when slowing down your life, you want to make the most of every moment rather than simply pass through it.

to do

Make a short to-do list. One of the best ways to slow down your life is to make a short to-do list. Whether it’s a daily task or a weekly project, writing it down helps trick your brain into thinking in specific steps. Having a short to-do list will help you prioritize tasks so put only three items on your list each day. This way, you’ll be able to check off the most important tasks and leave the rest for the next day or week.

Gratitude

Cultivating gratitude. This is a powerful way to boost your mood, foster stronger relationships, and even change the way you see yourself. Plus, practicing gratitude is totally free! When you practice gratitude, you’ll experience an increased sense of relaxation, a stronger immune system, and a reduction in blood pressure. Write down the things you’re grateful for or write a handwritten letter to someone special and focus on the good qualities of that person.

Declutter

Get rid of clutter. Clutter clogs our brain’s neural pathways, which means that we can’t process information quickly and can negatively impact our relationships, health, and work performance. We also spend an inordinate amount of time searching for things. This is time we could be spending with loved ones or relaxing. When tackling a clutter problem, it’s important to start small. Start by putting your dirty laundry in a hamper, and then clear off the tops of appliances and shelves and move up from there.

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Create a cocoon. Fall is the best time to start learning the art of cocooning. You can start by setting aside a specific space in your bedroom. Then, set a schedule for cocooning and begin to follow it. Make sure you have plenty of comfortable pajamas on hand for your sessions.

The cooler weather and shorter days are the perfect time to think about slowing down your life. Tell us how you step back when things get hectic in the comments below or post on our Facebook page!

 

Stretching Summer into Fall

Just because the calendar says Labor Day doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to summer just like that. In most areas the weather can remain warm well into the fall, and just because kids are back to school, and the days are getting a little shorter it doesn’t mean the fun is done.

We like to drag out summer as long as possible and there are plenty of things for you to do that will make You feel like the happy summer days have not faded quite yet.

Fall PJ Party

Plan a backyard sleepover. You can do this for either adults or kids. There’s nothing better than setting up the backyard with lots of food, drink, and even an outdoor movie screen. Everybody can wear their favorite pajamas and enjoy the early fall evenings.

Farmers Market

Visit a farmer’s market. The summer bounty is at its height and getting picked and brought to your local market right now. Pick up an array of fresh fruits and vegetables and fill your table with all the amazing flavors of summer. Think about canning some of this wonderful produce for the sweet taste of summer all winter long.

Zoo

Go to the zoo. Believe it or not, this is the time of the year when the animals are most active. It’s not quite as hot but days can still get into the temperatures where they are out, roaming around, and showing off for all their visitors.

Drivein

Go to a drive-in for dinner. Most places where you can order and eat dinner right from your car stay open well into October because they know there is plenty of good weather yet to be had. Hop in your car and head to your local drive-in with the family and enjoy your dinner outdoors.

Fall Gardening

Do some gardening. Fall mums, cold crops, and next year’s bulbs can all be planted now and will continue to grow until it freezes.  Did you know that many vegetables can be grown between now and the end of October because they like the cooler weather? You can be eating fresh produce right up until the snow flies

Am Park

Visit an amusement park. Nothing says summer like rides, concession stands, and shows. The great thing about visiting an amusement park at this time of year is that you’ll likely save all kinds of money throughout the park. You might even find an all-inclusive package deal because they are anxious to keep people coming until they close for the season.

Beach

Go to the beach. On a warm sunny day pack up the family and head on down to the beach. The wonderful part about going this time of year is that you won’t have the crowds you have during the summer months.

Clothes

Hang your laundry out to dry. The fresh scents of summer can hang with you for just a little longer if you put your laundry outside to dry instead of using the dryer. There’s something about pulling out a line-dried piece of clothing or towel in the middle of November that will put a smile on your face.

Enjoy every moment of what we have left of summer and have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!

 

School Supplies You Didn’t Think You Needed (Until Now)

It’s back to school time and by now you probably have the list of supplies your student will need for the upcoming year. These necessities usually include pens, pencils, a backpack, a laptop, and paper.

But beyond these typical school supplies, there are other things you should consider adding to your shopping list that you may not have thought of. We’ve got several must-haves you should purchase now to keep you one step ahead as the chaos of a new academic year starts.

Pajamas – Every student should have new pajamas to start the school year out with. A comfy pair of PJs will ensure your kids sleep well at night, look great for weekend sleepovers, and have something perfect for pajama day during spirit week. Get them a couple pairs just to be safe!

Water Bottles

Water Bottle – Having their own refillable water bottle will make sure your kids don’t accidentally drink from someone else’s container and will also keep the water cold over the course of the day. Make the bottle their own by letting them choose the color and style. You can even have them personalized with your child’s name or picture.

Mini Sanitizer

Hand Sanitizer – While all classrooms and public spaces will have sanitizer available to everyone, somewhere a bottle will inevitably run out. A mini bottle of their own kept in their backpack will give them the ability to sanitize and stay safe when otherwise unavailable.

Apps

Parental Apps – If your student has their own phone it’s essential that you download some apps to it for their safety and your peace of mind. From location tracking to online monitoring, every parent should make sure these apps are installed on their child’s phone.

Flash

Flash Drive – Because technology glitches and breakdowns happen, a good flash drive will make it possible to backup all your child’s hard work.

Umbrella

Compact Umbrella – Fall can be a rainy time of the year so make sure your student stays dry by packing a mini-umbrella in their school bag. They come in so many fun colors, prints, and styles that your child will actually want to use it when the showers come.  And these days umbrellas are so compact, carrying one won’t take up any room at all!

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Multivitamins – During summer break you have control over what your child eats and their overall nutrition. Once you send them off to school, it’s a different story. They may tell you they ate the healthy lunch you made them… but did they really? Having your child take a multivitamin every day will guarantee that they are getting all the nutrients they need to grow up big and strong.

Wine

Wine – Ok so this one is for mom and dad and not the kids, but trust us – you’re going to need it. Your already hectic day coupled with all the activities your kids are involved in will sometimes make your head spin. On those occasions after you tuck the kiddos into bed for the night (in their new jammies), pop the cork and wind down yourself. It’s a long school year ahead. You can thank us later.

 

How to Celebrate National Relaxation Day

National Relaxation Day is August 15th. If you’ve ever wanted to take a day to unplug from technology and social media, you’ve come to the right place for ideas on how to do just that. Take a relaxing bath, relax with a good book, or get a massage. Whatever your reason for celebrating, relaxation can be beneficial for your mind and body.

Stress is one of the most common distractions we have, and taking some time to relax is essential for overall wellness. Taking breaks, watching TV, and light gardening are just a few of the ways to relax every day and unwind but if you’re looking for the best ways to spend a whole day relaxing, you should start planning now.  Listed below are 8 ideas to get you started.

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Take a mental health day. You can’t spend the day relaxing if you have to work. If possible, take a mental health day to reflect and do Inner Work. This day can be spent doing something you enjoy or trying something new, spending time with friends, or engaging in some challenging activity. While the latter might seem like a luxury, it will give you a relaxing feeling of accomplishment.

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Start the morning slow. Enjoy the time you get to spend in your pajamas. Sleep late, have a special breakfast, and work into your day. If you have others in the home that may interrupt your morning Zen, tell them in advance this is your day. Or better yet, get the whole gang involved. A whole morning in PJs for everyone!

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Visit a spa. There are so many benefits to visiting a spa. Aside from feeling good, spa treatments can help improve your skin’s health and organ function. Some spas even offer services to remove unwanted hair. If you’re looking for a day to relax, visiting a spa might be the perfect way to unwind. And you can easily schedule well in advance for your treatment.

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Take a scenic walk. Mother Nature can provide some of the most amazing backdrops for your relaxation day. Walk in a natural environment as opposed to an urban street. The mental boost you get from hiking trails, a sandy beach, or a forest can do wonders for your well-being.

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Meditate. Practicing meditation requires you to focus your mind and notice the world around you. If you’re new to meditation, National Relaxation Day is the perfect time to make it part of your daily routine. Try to meditate for a short period of time to begin with and work your way up to longer and more frequent sessions.

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Exercise. There are numerous benefits of exercise as a way to relax. Exercise promotes stress reduction and strengthens the immune system, cardiovascular system, and digestive system by providing a physical activity that makes them work in tandem. Exercise is also proven to improve mood by producing endorphins that make you happy – so get moving and start relaxing!

Write (1)

Write something. In today’s stressful world, it’s important to find a way to escape and relax. Writing is a great hobby and creative outlet. Not only does it relax and inspire you, but it can also improve your logical thinking, narrative skills, and creative thinking. Write about anything you want and remember you’re not a novelist; this is a personal outlet for you!

Sun

Get some sun. Getting outside in the sunshine has several benefits, including improving mood. It prevents overproduction of the hormone melatonin, which is produced by the body when it is dark. Additionally, exposure to sunlight improves brain function which allows you to be more clear thinking and in turn organize your thoughts which will help you relax. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

There are a million things you can do to relax and after all, this is a national holiday so do what makes you relax! Don’t forget to spread the word about National Relaxation Day and celebrate your self-care!

Keeping Cool on Hot Summer Days

Many of us love, appreciate, and want to take advantage of all that summer has to offer, but sometimes the one thing stopping us from enjoying the season is oppressive heat. Scorching hot days are inevitably going to happen, but there are tons of ways to stay comfortable both outdoors and indoors when the ridiculously high temperatures hit.

Outdoors

Too much fun in the sun can indeed lead to health issues like heat stroke and dehydration, but if you play it smart you can enjoy being outside even on the hottest summer days.

Hydrate

Keep hydrated: Dehydration can cause health problems, including heat stroke and heat exhaustion, and puts additional stress on the body, which can lead to headaches, fatigue, and a reduced ability to cool itself down. If you are extremely active on hot days, consider adding hydration packs to your outdoor activities.  They’re a convenient way to carry water and stay hydrated when exercising, working outside, or simply hanging out.

Cooling Tools

Use cooling tools: When it comes to staying cool, a mister is an indispensable tool. The mist it produces cools the body and provides a refreshing blast of water whenever you’re feeling hot. To keep the water from getting warm, put some ice in it, or better yet, plan ahead and put the bottle in the freezer for an hour before you head out. The slush will melt and keep the mist cooler longer. Cooling towels are also great for providing instant relief as they continue to cool as the water evaporates.

Shade

Avoid full sun: Try staying out of the sun as much as possible or alternate your activities by heading indoors to an air-conditioned building to stay cool from time to time. That way, you don’t have to give up all your outdoor fun without overheating. You can also plan to go places that have enough shade so that you aren’t constantly in direct sunlight.

swimming

Get wet: Take advantage of opportunities to keep cool in various community locations like public pools, splash pads, and beaches. Spending time in the water cools down your entire body and it feels oh so good!

Indoors

If you have air conditioning then staying cool in your home is quite easy. If you don’t however, you want to make every effort to stay comfortable while you wait out the heat wave. These tips will definitely help.

Close Blinds

Close your blinds and curtains: Blocking the sun from shining in the house can keep the temperature indoors much lower. Heat rises so pay specific attention to upstairs rooms. Especially the bedrooms as you want to be comfortable when you sleep.

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Wear the right clothing. Light and breathable fabrics are the way to go when the temps hit record highs. Your skin needs to be able to sweat and then dry quickly to keep your internal cooling system at its best. This includes bedtime. Wear light summertime pajamas or even better a nightshirt that is loose fitting and non-restricting.

Eat the right foods. Hot days are not the right times to eat heavy meals of foods loaded with fat and sugar. Instead, eat hydrating meals with plenty of vegetables (that are loaded with water) and fruits. Include lean proteins as well to keep up your energy levels.

Dog water

Don’t forget the pets. Animals can suffer from heat stroke and exhaustion as well so make sure your furry friends have access to plenty of water and shade.  Don’t take them along in the car when the temperatures are skyrocketing. It only takes minutes in a hot vehicle for them to become ill.

Remember that it IS summer and in no time many will be complaining about the cold and snow. Embrace the season, enjoy all that summer has to offer, just be careful not to overdo it.

 

Planning the Perfect Kids Sleepover

Kids’ sleepovers are fun events that not only bring old and new friends together but also teach children to practice good manners and hospitality. From feeding and cleaning up after others, to comforting a homesick sick child, children can learn valuable life skills by making a meal or playing games with their guests.

The key to planning the perfect kids’ sleepover party is making sure you are well prepared and involve your kids in the entire process so that the night will run smoothly. Read on for more!

Invite

Limit the number of guests. One of the most important things to consider when planning a sleepover is the number of guests you will have. If for instance your child already struggles with play dates, it’s best to limit the number of guests to two or three. From there, you can work up to three or four and so on. Be sure to invite an even number of guests as the odd kid out effect can be very frustrating.

Encourage matching pajamas. The kids should have matching pajamas so letting them know in advance will assure they are not without.  If they don’t have them, you can always order them before the party begins so that they can change into them as they arrive. It’s a sure way to make the sleepover a success!

Sweet Bar

Create a Sweet Bar. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make kids’ sleepovers fun, consider creating a sweet bar!  The kids will love decorating their desserts with fun toppings and creating their own signature flavors.  Be sure to start the party early in the evening so that the sugar has time to leave their system before bedtime. Some fun activities for them to do after the sweet bar helps burn that sugar right off.

Toothbrushes

Provide toiletries. Always make sure to have extra toiletries on hand for the guests. It’s almost inevitable that someone will forget a toothbrush, toothpaste, or other hygiene products, and kids don’t always think of these things. Make sure that they are visible and displayed in a way that your guests will not be embarrassed to ask and know they can use them.

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Build a photo booth. Creating a photo booth for the sleepover is a simple but fun activity. You can set up a photo wall with fun items, like hats and beaded necklaces, or even purchase some gear online to make your own DIY photo booth props. Your guests can pose with these props to get some fun pictures. You can also send photos home as party favors.

Ice Breaker

Break the ice. Consider an icebreaker game as the first activity. It’s a fun way to get everyone acquainted with one another and help shy kids feel comfortable. As an example, have everyone write down two fibs and one truth about themselves. Once everyone has written down their items, they share them with the group who then decides which one is true. It’s a great way to lighten the mood of the evening.

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Practice safety. Know in advance if any of the kids need to take medications, have allergies, or have fears of certain things. Also, make sure that when they go to bed they know where your bedroom is so they can easily find you if they need something. Make sure to leave hall lights on and place nightlights in the bathrooms.

Organizing a sleepover can be a tricky task but it’s a great opportunity for creative kids to run wild and shy ones to come out of their shell. Your kids will have fun, you will have fun, and tons of memories will be made!

 

 

 

8 Things You Can Do to Prepare For a Stress-Free Summer Vacation

Summer vacation season is in full swing and despite the high gas prices, AAA says that more Americans are traveling again. Whether you’re camping in your own state, taking a cross-country road trip, or flying to a tropical or overseas destination it’s important to be prepared.

From before you leave to your return back home, here are some tips you can use to make sure you get the most out of your time off and not feel overwhelmed when you get back.

Vacation Budget

Budget in advance. Conduct adequate research in advance to get the best rates for airfare and hotel rooms, as well as discounts for events and souvenirs Make estimates of what you plan to spend and stick to the budget. Remember, the credit card bill will arrive a month later and you don’t want to be shocked when you open it.

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Stay well-rested. Sleep is essential to having a stress-free vacation. A good night’s sleep will help you plan better and stay calm. It’s also helpful to try to keep the same sleep schedule not only throughout the summer but also while you are away, especially for kids. This will not only help you avoid being late for planned activities and oversleeping, but it will also assure you won’t be tired during your planned adventures.

No Work

Communicate in advance. When you’re on vacation, it’s best to disengage from work. While you may be tempted to check emails and send IMs, you should treat your vacation as a mandatory break. Leave your work and email accounts in someone else’s capable hands and tell people you plan to disconnect while you are gone.

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Pack for anything. Weather and temperature can never be counted on, so making sure you have a variety of wardrobe choices is not only smart for making sure you are comfortable but also helps keep you on budget not having to buy something if you aren’t prepared. This strategy applies even to your pajamas. Of course, you’ll need some summer pj’s but you may also want to bring along something in case its cooler one day or the air conditioning in the hotel is too cold.

Phone off

Reduce phone usage. If you want to have a stress-free summer vacation, limit your cell phone use. Yes, you’ll probably want to have it along to take pictures of all the amazing things you’re going to see and do, but try putting it on silent so you don’t hear notifications or incoming calls.

 

Clean House

Clean your house before you leave. There is no better feeling than knowing you won’t have to clean the house when you return from a trip. You’ll already have enough to do when you get back but cleaning house won’t be one of them. Don’t forget to throw away food that will spoil while you are gone. No one like a smelly fridge.List

Make a grocery list. Most people come back from vacation to empty refrigerators and then scramble to feed their families the first day back. Almost all stores deliver these days so if you make a grocery list before you leave, you can go online the day you are coming back and order everything from your to be delivered right to your door.

Nanny

Bring along a babysitter or nanny. If you are planning a vacation with your children, it may be a good idea to bring your nanny with you if possible. The continuity of care will be great for the children, and the nanny will also have the benefit of a paid vacation. It can make the trip more enjoyable for your children and allows you to have some one-on-one time with your spouse as well.

Your vacation is all about getting away, resting, up and making memories. If you plan ahead and follow these tips on how to get the most of it, you’ll come back feeling refreshed, de-stressed, and it will be easy to ease back into everyday life.