Guess What I Did Over Lunch

Ever feel like you're getting nowhere?

That no matter what you do, you bump into a roadblock? Or you just can't get ahead? (Just like a log-jam of bumper boats where no one is getting anywhere fast.)

It can feel that way when you are a working mom. I believe that often we are our own worst critics and we replay a self-feating message in our heads.

When you are working you can't shut off the back of your mind telling you all the things you need to be doing at home or all the errands you need to be accomplishing.

And once you're at home, you might be worrying about the deadlines you have looming at work or the grumpy co-worker who resents the fact that you scoot out of work at the top of the hour.

Having a job and determining to be a great homemaker at the same time takes a lot of thoughtful purpose.

Have you stopped lately and actually put thought to your actions?

life feeling stuck like a bumper boat jam? - photo by ikeephouse

You can do this.

Purposefully spend your time. But, not in a guilty and rushing way. Don't use your time with a grudge. Instead you need to be excited that you have time and you can choose what to do with it.

Don't waste today. It won't be coming back.

And in fact, remember to do something today that will pay you back in the future.

You wouldn't take a trip without booking tickets and knowing what day you're going?

You wouldn't play sports without a game plan?

Am I right?

make a game plan - photo by ikeephouse

One way to make some insurance for the busy days ahead is to wisely use your lunch time while you are work.

Yes, you could mindlessly surf the internet. You could chat with co-workers. You could get some exercise. Non of these things are wrong. But, if you are looking to make improvements in your homemaking you might want to consider changing your lunch routine.

Brainstorm some things you would be excited to do for yourself!

Here are 10 ideas to get you started. Be excited that you are a modern mom and a homemaker. You just happen to have a job right now too. Remember, prosper where you are planted!

1. look up new and interesting recipes
2. work on meal plans
3. cut coupons
4. write birthday cards
5. sort and label photos
6. write a good old fashioned letter
7. plan a party
8. brainstorm present ideas for your friends and family
9. comparison shop online
10. call family you've neglected to talk to lately

What is your favorite thing to do on a lunch break that saves you time later?

Create a Place to Relax in Your Own Home

In the modern world, modern moms and families are very busy and often feel as though they have to be connected to the media at all times. Cell phones and laptop computers mean that many people are attached to them all day, in case they miss something important.

Unfortunately, what many families (including mom especially) need is to get a break from all of that. A quiet and peaceful sanctuary to be alone and unwind. If you want to do this, you can, right in your own home. It doesn't take many minutes each week to help you feel more relaxed. Often, it's harder to convince yourself you have the time than it is to actually find a spare 15 minutes.

The first thing you need to do is decide where you want it to be. You may prefer the bathroom, where you can take a long lingering bath. If you have extra room elsewhere, that may be preferable for you.
  
Once you know where, decide what you want to do. Do you enjoy scented candles or incense? What type of music do you find relaxing? You want all of your senses engaged. So, you may choose to have a glass of wine or a mug of hot chocolate. What about your skin, think about a gentle massage oil or a warm snugly blanket.

When you begin to see the sanctuary in your mind, start to create it. Gather the items you need and set aside a special time. You will need to let others know that you will not be available.

When the time comes, turn off your phones and computers. Put a sign on the door if you live in a home with others. Take all of the things you need into your special place. Then, gently unwind and relax.

Do not stress about what is going on with your family or work. Just think about how beautiful the music is. Or, how the hot chocolate warms your belly. For the special time you have set aside, allow yourself to let go of everything else. It will all be waiting for you when you are done.

Setting aside time to relax is a rejuvenating experience. Once you have done it, you will be able to feel the difference in your level of stress and tension. Work an hour of quiet time into your routine at least once per week.

If at all possible, try to have some peaceful time there several times per week. Even if it  You will find that you are better able to focus your attention to other things once you are relaxed.

Here are some more inspiring insights to help you relax.

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Thanks for stopping by,
Suzanne

How to Add More Color to Your Wardrobe Beyond Basic Black

Have you looked into your closet lately and it's a sea of black? Or maybe a sea of blue? Wondering how to add more color to your wardrobe? Black is OK some of the time...but it can become a bit boring. You don't have to be bored of your wardrobe. It's time embracing color! Here are some ways to add color to your wardrobe.

Images Courtesy of Amazon

Click a Style! 
Choose one of these great books to build a fabulous, frugal wardrobe.

Solid Tops

Colorful knit tops or a jewel-tone silk blouse can add a splash of color to a blazer or suit jacket if you have to go out and about. But, solid color tops are a work-horse for looking smart around home too.

Say It with Shoes

There are so many options for colorful shoes these days, and when you're talking color, the cheap ones are not necessarily more or less colorful than the expensive ones. Go for a pair of colorful pumps or jazzy flats, or even dress sandals (wear colorful toenail polish!). Unlike boots...pumps, flats, and sandals can be colorful without being distracting.

 

Necklaces and Jewelry

Put some sparkling color around your neck with necklaces. There are so many possibilities here, from polished glass beads to rhinestones on colorful cords. Stay away from tacky or heavy necklaces, but choosing something with a nice pop of color can dress up even a drab outfit.

Bracelets and earrings can be worn for the same reasons, adding a splash of color.

Handbags

Handbags are where you can bring a bit of whimsy and jazz into your life without catching a lot of flak (from your mom or best friend). Patterns and colors can spice up a plain suit and show a bit of your personality. If you like, start small - carry a little handbag with pretty colors. Then, depending on your outgoing-ness, maybe you can work up to a large, patterned handbag.

Scarves

Scarves were a workplace stand-by not too long ago, but you can bring them back in all kinds of ways. They are great for when you've been at home but need to run out for an errand. They are a quick way to dress up your look.

Folded scarves can work as a headband for your hair, or you can find various ways to tie them around your neck. You can also use them as a creative alternative to a belt. Solid colors might be a good place to start, or subtle patterns that match your outfit.


25 Ways to Wear a Scarf

Belts

Tucked-in shirts and elaborate belt buckles were popular in the 80s, but you can still dress up an outfit with a solid band of color around your waist. Belts can add color to pants or skirt outfits, and you can add a matching handbag for color coordination.

Colored Suits

If you want to really go for it, wear a solid-colored flattering suit. You can be conservative and colorful all at the same time.


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Have a bright and colorful day!

Mrs. Bauer