Bearfruit Basics | Simple Christian Living

Easy Arm-Toning Exercises for Busy Moms: Strengthening Your Body and Spirit

BearfruitBasics — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 13:12:32 +0000

As Christian moms, we wear many hats—caretakers, chauffeurs, meal preppers, and the list goes on. With all these responsibilities, finding time to exercise can feel like an impossible task. But here’s the good news: you don’t need hours at the gym to tone your arms. You can do it right at home—or even at your desk! Whether you’re waiting for the pasta to boil or taking a quick break from answering emails, these simple arm exercises can fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. They’ll not only help you stay strong but also give you a few moments to connect with God and refresh your spirit. 1. Desk Stretches to Start Your Day Before diving into the day’s tasks, take a few moments to stretch and get your blood flowing. These stretches can be done right at your desk or kitchen counter. 2. Countertop Push-Ups While the Coffee Brews Push-ups are fantastic for toning your arms, chest, and shoulders. And guess what? You don’t need to get on the floor to do them. As you push up, take a moment to breathe in God’s presence and feel His strength in you. 3. Water Bottle Bicep Curls During Prayer Time Turn your prayer time into a mini workout with this easy bicep curl exercise. As you curl, lift your prayers to God, knowing that He is with you in every moment. 4. Tricep Dips During Playtime You can tone the back of your arms while your kids play nearby. Each dip can be a reminder of how God supports us, even in the busiest seasons of life. 5. Arm Raises While Preparing Dinner Make the most of your time in the kitchen with this simple arm-toning move. While you’re working on those arms, offer up a prayer of thanks for the food you’re preparing and the strength to care for your family. Conclusion As busy Christian moms, it’s easy to put our own needs on the back burner. But taking care of your body is one way to honor the temple God has given you. By incorporating these simple arm-toning exercises into your daily routine, you can stay strong and energized to continue serving your family and God with all your heart. Remember, it’s not about perfection but progress. Every little bit counts, and with God’s help, you can achieve your fitness goals while nurturing your spirit.

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Easy Exercises to Get Rid of Your Mommy Belly Postpartum

BearfruitBasics — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 12:36:01 +0000

Today, we’re diving into a topic that many mothers find crucial on their postpartum journey: how to gently and effectively address that postpartum belly. Our motto is all about going back to basics and keeping things simple, so let’s explore some easy exercises that fit right into your busy schedule. 1. Pelvic Tilts: A Gentle Start Pelvic tilts are fantastic for engaging your core and strengthening your lower back. They’re gentle and can be done anytime. How to Do It: Tip: This exercise helps realign your spine and strengthen the muscles around your abdomen. 2. Postpartum Crunches: Modified for Comfort Traditional crunches might be too intense right after childbirth, so try this modified version that’s easier on your body. How to Do It: Tip: Engage your core muscles and avoid pulling on your neck with your hands. 3. Bridge Pose: Strengthening Your Core and Glutes The bridge pose is not only great for your core but also strengthens your glutes and lower back. How to Do It: Tip: Make sure to keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid arching your back excessively. 4. Wall Sits: Building Endurance Wall sits are a great way to work your lower body and core without needing any equipment. How to Do It: Tip: Keep your knees aligned with your ankles and avoid letting them go past your toes. 5. Gentle Abdominal Breathing Abdominal breathing helps to engage your core muscles and promote relaxation. How to Do It: Tip: Focus on deep, slow breaths to maximize the benefits. Incorporating Faith into Your Routine As you embark on this journey to strengthen your body, remember that each step you take is part of your path to wellness and recovery. As you strengthen your outer body, make sure you are eating right as well. You’re not alone in this journey—lean on your faith and community for support. Pray for strength and patience as you navigate the postpartum period, and celebrate each small victory along the way. Final Thoughts Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine. These exercises are designed to be simple and manageable, fitting into your busy life as a busy mother. With consistency and a positive mindset, you’ll gradually see improvements in your postpartum belly and overall well-being. Stay tuned for more tips on keeping things simple and going back to basics in your motherhood journey.

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Top Thrift Store Treasure Items to Look Out For

BearfruitBasics — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 01:02:25 +0000

Ahoy, savvy thrifters! If you’re on the hunt for some serious treasure without breaking the bank, you’ve come to the right place. A thrift store is like a hidden treasure chest waiting to be plundered, and today, we’re setting sail to uncover the top loot you should be keeping an eye out for. So grab your compass (or smartphone) and get ready to embark on a thrifting adventure with me! 1. Vintage Clothing and Accessories Ah, the thrill of finding a vintage gem hidden among the racks of clothing! From funky prints to timeless silhouettes, vintage clothing offers a unique style that’s sure to make a statement. Keep your eyes peeled for retro dresses, classic blazers, and quirky accessories like scarves and hats. The main keyword here is “vintage clothing,” so keep it in mind as you browse through the racks. 2. Thrift Store Quality Furniture Finds Who says you need to break the bank to furnish your home in style? Thrift stores are a goldmine for quality furniture finds that won’t cost you an arm and a peg leg. Look out for sturdy wooden pieces like dressers, tables, and chairs that can be easily refurbished or repurposed to suit your space. With a little creativity and elbow grease, you’ll have your home looking ship-shape in no time! 3. Quirky Home Décor Transform your living space into a treasure trove of personality with quirky home décor finds from thrift stores. From vintage knick-knacks to eclectic artwork, there’s no shortage of unique treasures to discover. Keep an eye out for statement pieces like ornate mirrors, colorful vases, and funky sculptures that will add character and charm to any room. 4. Hidden Gems in the Book Section Calling all bookworms! Don’t forget to plunder the book section for literary treasures that are sure to delight. Whether you’re a fan of classic novels, cookbooks, or vintage magazines, thrift stores often have a wide selection of reading material at bargain prices. Keep an eye out for rare editions and out-of-print titles that will make a welcome addition to your collection. 5. Retro Kitchenware and Cookware Spice up your culinary adventures with retro kitchenware and cookware from thrift stores. From colorful Pyrex dishes to vintage mixing bowls, you’ll find everything you need to whip up delicious meals in style. The main keyword here is “retro kitchenware,” so be sure to keep it in mind as you browse the shelves for hidden treasures. Thrift Store Treasures: Conclusion And there you have it, fellow treasure hunters—our top picks for thrift-store treasure items to look out for. With a keen eye and a sense of adventure, you’re sure to uncover some serious loot on your next thrifting expedition. So hoist the sails and set a course for your nearest thrift store—treasure awaits! (Get inspiration from Flea Market Flip, one of my favorite flipping shows.) Happy hunting!

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Quick & Easy to Make Air Fryer Recipes for Dinner

BearfruitBasics — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 14:00:59 +0000

Easy Air Fryer Dinner Recipes Looking for quick and easy-to-make air fryer recipes for dinner? Well, bookmark this page because here is a round up of fun things to try in your air fryer! I must admit, I’m late to the game with air fryers, as I just got one last Christmas 😂 but I’m always looking for easy air fryer recipes, so let me share a few easy air fryer recipes to get you started: 1. Crispy French Fries To start, just cut your washed potatoes into thin wedges, toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings. My favorite is salt, pepper, and rosemary. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until crispy. 2. Chicken Wings Season your chicken wings with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and air fry at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and cooked through. For an extra kick, you can add hot sauce if that’s your preference. 3. Fish Tacos Restaurant quality fish tacos at home? Don’t mind if I do! Season tilapia (or your preferred fish) with chili powder, cumin, and salt, and air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Serve in warm tortillas with avocado, salsa, and lime wedges. YUM! 4. Vegetarian Egg Rolls Fill egg roll wrappers (you can buy these already made at the super market) with shredded cabbage, carrots, and anything else you would like to add. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. 5. Sweet Potato Fries If you like potato fries, but want something a little healthier, go for sweet potato fries. Sweet potatoes contain a lot more nutrients than regular potatoes, such as more antioxidants, vitamin A and vitamin C. For this meal, cut your sweet potatoes into thin wedges, toss with olive oil and cinnamon, and air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until crispy. 6. Falafel My husband loves falafel and all things mediterranean. Pulse chickpeas, onion, garlic, and spices (you can use coriander, cumin, black pepper, chili powder and/or cayenne pepper). Put all ingredients in a food processor until combined then form into balls. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and cooked through. 7. Chicken Tenders Cut chicken breasts into strips, dip in beaten egg and seasoned breadcrumbs, and air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or until crispy and cooked through. Kentucky fried chicken, who??? Remember to preheat your air fryer before adding your food, and to shake or flip the food halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Try our quick and easy breakfast recipes when you can! Enjoy your air fryer creations!

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This One Thing Will Help You Accomplish Your New Year Goals

BearfruitBasics — Sun, 08 Jan 2023 22:35:02 +0000

Okay y’all, it’s January–which means new year goals and resolution planning! But let’s be honest, don’t most of them fizzle out by March or even February? We tend to start off the year so hopeful, so determined. But little by little, somehow, we lose our steam. So how do you increase your chances of keeping your new year resolution? Let me share the secret with you… Create a Vision Board! The secret to keeping your New Year goals throughout this year is to create a vision board! Now, this idea is nothing earth shattering, but it is worth taking a second look at if you have heard about it before. The bible verse that comes to mind here is Jeremiah 29:11 when the Lord says, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” I’d like to add a disclaimer here–you can create a vision board but always remember that God ultimately has a plan for you! Align your vision board with what He wants for you, and you will surely receive all of His bountiful blessings! The idea behind a vision board is being able to stay focused on what you would like to accomplish. Keep reading for some key elements when you create your vision board! Successfully Accomplish Your New Year Goals with These Steps: 1. Be Specific. When it comes to creating your vision board, be as specific as you can. For example, don’t just say “I want to lose weight,” but rather “I want to lose 20 lbs.” Putting an actual number will help you measure your results better. (In marketing, we call this a “Key Performance Indicator.”) You need to make your goals quantifiable. 2. Be Realistic. Vision boards work well if you are realistic with what is within your reach. If you want to get out of debt, for example, you can realistically budget how much you can pay. You may have credit card bills, student loans, whatever it may be, but tally up your debt and calculate something doable. To illustrate, you may not be able to knock out $70,000 of student loans in one year on a much lower income or $15k in credit cards. However, having a plan in place will allow you to see how much of that is realistically possible for you. Maybe an extra $300 a month will help you knock out $3,600 of bills. So write that specific number down so you can accomplish that goal. You know this is achievable because it is realistic. 3. Visualize What You Want. The best thing about vision boards, IMO, is that you get to cut out pictures and add them to your vision board! I remember when I wanted to re-do the kid’s bathroom in our fixer-upper house. Pinterest had beautiful examples of the exact tiles I wanted. When it was time to get the bathroom re-done, we were able to save money when the tiles I had my eye on went on sale. Not only does our bathroom look exactly what I pictured it to be, but I saved so much money because I was ready for that sale haha! 4. Place It Where You Can See It Daily. Ever heard the saying, out of sight out of mind? Well, it’s true! Studies have shown, seeing really is believing. I have my vision board hanging in my bedroom where I can see it on a daily basis. It helps me remember what I am working so hard to achieve. If your new year goals are health oriented, place it in your home where it can be your valuable reminder. Put it on a wall next to where you work out, or in the kitchen where you cook, or even next to your pantry where you prepare your meals. This will keep you focused and determined in accomplishing your new year resolution. 5. Write Your New Year Goals In The Past Tense. This one is the winner for me. Don’t write “I will buy a house” or “I will move into my new apartment this year,” but rather “I moved into my new apartment this year.” Writing in the past tense will help you claim what is already meant to be yours. Claim it, Sis! 6. Make It a Family Event. Did you know that you can increase the odds of accomplishing your new year goals with your spouse? I remember when the pandemic hit, we decided as a family it would be best for me to stay at home with the kids since school was shut down for in-person attendance. Unfortunately, this meant having to resign my marketing job. After a while without income (and our old house was giving us so, so many problems), we knew I had to return to work. At this point, I know that whatever I do needs to be a work from home job. I remember receiving in-house job offers, but because my husband and I knew exactly what we wanted, I turned them down. Then, along came the perfect opportunity, where I was able to work for a company that is fully remote, and I couldn’t be more happier! The job I have now aligns perfectly with our vision board, and I couldn’t be more grateful and thankful for my husband’s support. You don’t have to do this with your spouse, you can do it with your child, your parent, or even a best friend. The goal is to have a support system in place so your village can help you accomplish your new year resolution. The Take Away In conclusion, if you are hoping to stick to your new year goals this year, WRITE THEM DOWN! Have a fun family night, and either make one for the family or each family member can make their own! It’s important to tackle your goals together with your support system to increase the odds of being successful. Don’t forget to pray that God blesses you with the determination and self control from the holy spirit to achieve everything you set your heart’s desires on. What are some goals you have set for this year? I’m rooting for you, Sis!

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Home Birth and Everything You Wanted to Know

BearfruitBasics — Sat, 17 Sep 2022 17:33:40 +0000

Choosing To Have A Home Birth Do you want a home birth? Perhaps you, like me, think that the idea of a home birth seems interesting, but never amounts to anything more than just curiosity. I remember wanting a home birth, but time and time again, we end up going the hospital route for each baby. To be honest, at the time I’m young and not asking enough questions. Imagine me: fresh out of college and married at 21. I’m pregnant by 22, and start having children back to back. However, during my last pregnancy–in all honesty–what makes me look into working with midwives this time around is the out-of-pocket cost. Prior to getting pregnant, I was separated heading for a divorce. Miraculously, we reconciled. I quit my full time job to focus on our family. Because of this, we sold our enormous home and downsized to live a more stress-free life. Naturally, cost is a motivating factor for me at this point in time, as well as having some negative experiences with hospitals. So I find home birth appealing paying a fraction of the amount of what a hospital may charge you. Besides the astronomical costs of having a baby here in the U.S., I’m hoping to finally experience what it’s like to have a baby at home! Not having any family close by (ugh, tear!), I don’t have anyone that I can leave the older kids with for the multiple hospital appointments and ultimately, the birth. So in other words, I’m not the only one giving birth at home during a pandemic. Like many others, I’m loving the idea of a more natural, hands-on birth with family present. A safe place where the fears and restrictions of COVID-19 aren’t dictating how I bring my child into the world. How I Prepare My Kids For A Home Birth Preparing everyone else in the family is a pretty neat experience. First, we start by talking about what a home birth means, and educate ourselves by reading plenty of books together. Secondly, we scour YouTube videos for home births to understand what a natural birth may sound and look like. We begin to get more excited about this experience and how much everyone in the family can be a part of this birth! Looking for the Right People My next step in the process is to look for midwives I want to work with. I begin by reading reviews online, searching for midwives near me, and making phone calls to my top three finalists. Out of everyone I talk to, my favorite is Cassie from Teamwork Birthing–a team of sisters who work together. Her bubbly personality spills through our phone chat. She answers every question I have with zero judgment. Paired with her contagious happiness about bringing babies into the world, is her vast knowledge of her love for midwifery, families, and God. This is it. I’m ecstatic to find my team of midwives!!! My Experience Working With Midwives In addition to finding the best people to work with, I’m extremely happy with their services. Every appointment is on time. Their offices are full of toys for the older kids to play with. You can even find supplements, such as vitamins and natural medicines for purchase. They even educate me on birth control and what is right for my family. Never once do I feel rushed, and my husband is equally part of the process as well. Thankfully, every visit goes according to plan, and we eventually bring a beautiful baby girl into this word exactly how we planned. My water birth is awesome for pain relief and I recommend one to anyone brave enough to let their body handle the pain of child birth. We opt for delayed cord cutting (Cassie explains this below), and enjoy the first few hours of her life as we snuggle up in bed in the comfort of my own home. You can see my full review of their services by reading it on google, and if you are in the central Florida area thinking about a home birth, please check them out! All About Cassie, My Midwife, at Teamwork Birthing Because of my amazing experience with Teamwork Birthing, I ask Cassie if it’s okay to interview her for my blog. Naturally, she’s more than happy to! (The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.) Can you please tell us about yourself? I’m Cassie (Cassandra) Largaespada, LM CPM (Licensed Midwife, Certified Professional Midwife). Mom to 6 kids, I gave birth to four and adopted two. I had my first baby at a hospital and the next three at a birth center. I didn’t know about home birth back then but if I could go back, I would definitely choose a home birth. What made you want to become a midwife? My hospital birth was not a good experience and I felt out of control and not listened to. I decided to find care where I was able to make choices alternative to the mainstream recommendations. What is the difference between a doula and a midwife for those who don’t know? A doula is a labor support person with no medical training. They support the emotional and physical needs of the mother and are a perfect compliment to the mother’s partner. A midwife is medically trained to take care of low risk women prenatally, during birth and postpartum. A midwife takes the place of an OB unless things become high risk. How long have you been a midwife or working with mothers and babies? I have worked in the birth community for 17 years. I was a doula for 10 years then went to midwifery school for 3 years and have been practicing as a midwife for almost 4 years. What would you say is the biggest misconception about midwives? The biggest misconception I have heard is that midwives are the same thing as doulas or have no medical training and do not know what to do in an emergency situation. People are often surprised that we carry medication, oxygen, and resuscitation equipment. Do you offer genetic testing and/or gender testing for mothers-to-be? Yes, we offer all the same lab testing offered at an OB office. We even do it in office so you don’t have to go anywhere else. We also are ok if you decide to decline some lab testing. Do you accept vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) patients? Yes! We love to support VBAC moms. We do need to have you consult with an OB regarding the risk and benefits of a repeat C Section vs a VBAC but we do this often. Can you deliver twins or multiples? In Florida, we cannot attend twin or breech deliveries at home. Can mothers eat and drink during labor at their home birth? Absolutely, whatever and whenever you want. In fact, we encourage you to drink frequently to avoid the need for IV hydration. What is a common question you get asked a lot when meeting moms-to-be for the first time? We are often asked if we “allow” you to do different things. Our answer is consistently the same. There is nothing we allow or don’t allow. It is your pregnancy. Your birth. Your baby. We have recommendations and we have some things that would exclude us from attending your birth but everything is a discussion and you ultimately have the final say. Is anyone not a good candidate for home birth? Yes. Home birth is only appropriate for low risk moms and low risk babies. We have a risk screening that helps us determine if you are a good candidate for home birth and we have a consulting OB that will help us to determine if you are a good candidate when there are “moderate” risks during the pregnancy. By the way, AMA (advanced maternal age), high BMI, and history of infertility are NOT considered high risk in our practice or by law in Florida. We hear these reasons all the time that women think they are too high risk for home birth. Are your services covered by insurance? Sometimes. We do take Medicaid on a limited basis and we are in network with 2 private insurance companies in Central Florida. We can also bill your insurance as out of network providers and sometimes get a decent reimbursement. Our self pay rate is approximately 10%-25% the self pay cost at the hospital. Do you accept patient transfers into your care? If so, up until how many weeks pregnant can they transfer over? Yes, as long as they have a copy of their records and are low risk. We have had many late transfers even up to 40 weeks for a couple mamas. As long as the family is confident in the decision, we have seen great success with transfers. What are some of the reasons your patients have transferred to Teamwork Birthing? Some of the top reasons we have seen women transfer to us recently are families being welcomed in prenatal appointments and the birth in our care, longer appointment times (and less wait time to be seen) at our office, patients/partners not feeling heard and understood by their OB office, patients desiring to have more freedom during labor and pushing, previous traumatic birthing experiences. What kind of pain management do you offer? We do not offer any medical pain management during labor. However, midwives say the birth pool is our epidural. Obviously, it does not take away the pain, but it can give a great deal of relief. We also try to reframe the thoughts around labor pain and remind mamas that labor pain is different than any other pain in your life. It is pain with a purpose. It is empowering and women have been doing it since the dawn of time. We know that fear makes labor more painful so we aim to bring as much peace and safety to the birth space. What is delayed cord cutting for those of us who haven’t heard that before? There is a wide variety of delayed cord cutting. In the hospital, that typically means 1-2 minutes. For us, we rarely cut a cord (unless there is an emergency that necessitates it) until after the placenta is delivered and whenever you are ready. How much does a birth with midwives cost? Our global package including all care and labs is $6,000. Is there a limit to people being present for the birth? There is no limit to people being present at your birth. We want you to have all the support you need. We do encourage only having those present who fully support home birth and only those you are ok being completely naked in front of. Giving birth is very vulnerable and intimate and if you feel you are “being watched”, it will inhibit your progress. What is one of the most memorable moments you have experienced delivering a baby? This is such a hard question to answer. There have been so many! But, I will say that some of the most emotional births for me have been mamas that have delivered after a loss. We are all grateful for our babies and we all have a story of how we get to where we are but these stories just get me in the feels. Cassie, thank you so much for answering all of my questions! For those in Central Florida interested in working with your team for a home birth, how can people contact you? You can visit us online at: www.teamworkbirthing.com or call 321-296-9399 Our office is located at: 5104 N OBT, Suite #109. Orlando, FL 32810 YouTube – www.YouTube.com/teamworkbirthing Instagram – www.instagram.com/teamworkbirthing Facebook – www.facebook.com/teamworkbirthing

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The Ultimate Back to School Checklist You Need to Have

BearfruitBasics — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 16:04:25 +0000

Back to School Is a Bittersweet Time for Most Families If you are looking for a back to school checklist, most likely you or someone in your family is gearing up to get ready to go back to school. Back to school is a bittersweet time in our household. On one hand, we’re not ready to give up our lazy, summer mornings that come after late, energetic sleepovers from the night before. However on the other hand, back to school allows for a new year of excitement and starting fresh. Your children will be making new friends and enjoying new clothes. There is even some respite for us, the parents at home. In any case, one of the appealing things about going back to school (as a mom anyway), is learning what everyone is into. For starters, is my middle schooler still obsessed with Hamilton, I wonder? Meanwhile, are the boys still into Star Wars and Dinosaurs these days? Going back to school shopping is a great way to connect and bond with your child. They can express themselves and their interests by picking their favorite clothes and themes, giving insight to what’s trendy for them at the moment. Conversely, back to school shopping can also be a tiring and stressful time in your life. For example, I don’t look forward to the crowds and the frenzy back-to-school shopping brings. Because I have a budget to stay within, getting the best deals are important to me, especially when you have multiple kids (or a large family like I do) to buy things for. School Supplies Are Slightly Different for Each Child We’ve compiled a basic back to school checklist for you to save time. This checklist should hopefully create a stress-free shopping experience for you and your student. If you prefer to get your things online, I’ve linked the items to Amazon for a smoother shopping experience. In addition to this back to school checklist, I encourage you to research with your child’s teacher first to make sure you are not missing anything. Again, this is a generic, basic list that should help you jump-start the year with the main items needed for school (but might not cover everything). Of course, remember to tweak it to cover yours or your child’s needs based on their grade and age, etc. Teachers will tell you that some items are required, while other items are only optional. If you have the means to donate school supplies, you can ask teachers for their “wish list” for their classroom. Certainly, any donation helps by giving kids the materials they need to have a successful school year! Basic Back to School Checklist: What They Will Need for their Classes Back to School Checklist: What Is Needed for the Student In addition to the list, don’t forget to see if your state has a tax-free week where you can take advantage of your back to school purchases. Back to School Checklist for High Schoolers Undeniably, the older kids are still going to need the basic school supplies. As has been noted above, that list includes: Also, did you know that Amazon offers a program just for students? (I just learned about this, too!) It’s called Prime Students, and it includes a lot of added features to really enhance your student’s journey through school. At the present time, if you are a student (or your child is old enough for their own account), you can sign up for Prime Student and receive discounts and deals such as: As a result of signing up for Prime Student, you can enjoy a free trial, and then prime monthly fee is discounted off the regular price after that. Lastly, many other places also provide student discounts, such as cell phone services, school programs, and travel industries. So, be sure to check out other student discount programs that you can take full advantage on! Back to School To-Do List Getting ready for back to school is not just about a list of physical items you need to purchase. For instance, it’s also about preparing yourself and your student for a prosperous start by making sure you handle everything on your to-do list before school starts. Therefore, here are some other things to keep in mind when getting ready for school: Kid’s Physicals Does your child need a physical to go back to school? Check with your state’s regulations to see if they need one to start school. If so, make sure you schedule one with their doctor or local pharmacy. Scheduled Bedtimes When it comes to preparing for back to school, getting everyone on schedule begins with having a set bed time. Try to train your bodies for earlier bedtimes (if you’ve been ignoring the clock all summer). For the most part, bedtime at my house tends to be, well, a mere suggestion. 😑 We are getting better though! It’s horrible how bedtime hits and that’s when everyone all of a sudden remembers how thirsty they are, or about the clothes they forgot to fold and put away earlier on in the day. Having a set bedtime helps everyone wake up in time to leave for school or catch the school bus in the morning without feeling groggy. Adjusting a few nights before school starts with a set bedtime will help the mornings go by without a hitch. Clean Out Closets Another advantage of getting ready for back to school, is taking the time to clean out closets. Things the kids have outgrown or worn out this last summer can be thrown away or donated if it’s still in good shape. Make some room in dressers and shoe racks for new clothes and shoes to take on the adventurous school year ahead. Checklist for the Younger Ones at Home If you have multiple children, there are some things I highly recommend you have for the young ones at home who aren’t quite ready for school, but are impacted nonetheless. Medicine Unfortunately, the start of a new school year usually means new germs. Getting sick is a normal part of childhood. With the older kids going to school, make sure you are prepared for sniffles and coughs by having children’s medicine on hand. I highly recommend this medicine, as it does not include all the unnecessary artificial dyes and ingredients, and touts to leave out all artificial sweeteners, preservatives, parabens, alcohol, and no common allergens. It is also certified gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO. Nursery Updates Having the kids back in school leaves a huge void of entertainment for the younger crowd in my household. Here are some things that help me keep the younger ones amused at home while the older ones are away at school: New School Year, New Habits! As of the beginning of this school year, I’ve tried really hard to get my night-owl, reality-TV-and-Netflix-watching self up earlier. Undoubtedly, as a Christian mom it’s important for me to try and squeeze in morning worship before the kids go to school. But, sometimes it can be difficult to make that happen with the rush of things and there are some days I struggle to get morning worship done. In any case, having a daily devotional book really helps me stay on track with making sure Jesus is at the center of our day. As we gather in the morning getting ready for the day to start, I love pausing for a few minutes while every one munches on their breakfast. We read and pray over one another before we all leave for the day. If you haven’t done worship (especially in the mornings), I challenge you to try! You will see a huge improvement in your family’s communication, behavior, and even daily gratitude. In Conclusion Back to school is a great time to start fresh. Begin by using a basic back to school checklist to prepare for the new school year ahead. Again, keep in mind that this blog only covers some generic suggestions for some basic back to school needs. Not to mention, it’s important to follow up with the teacher! Next, declutter and donate old clothes and shoes that no longer fit to free up space for new clothes and shoes. Remember to include Jesus in your daily routines to have your focus remain on Christ throughout the rush of the busy day! I hope this blog post has helped you prepare for back to school. How did you find back-to-school shopping? Was it stressful, or a piece of cake? Let me know in the comments below if you shopped online or in person. If you found this article helpful, please sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on our latest blogs.

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How to Work From Home Remotely and Stay Productive With Kids

BearfruitBasics — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 23:14:31 +0000

Parents Juggle Responsibilities of a Flourishing Career and Their Families by Working Remote Have you ever felt the pinch of having to pick between either your career or your family? If you have, you’re not alone. Luckily, there are many remote opportunities that allow for a peaceful work/life balance. I’m blessed to have both experiences, being in office as well as work from home, throughout my career and motherhood. Once upon a time (especially before having young children), I loved getting dressed up and going to work in an office environment. I was excited to chat with my peers. In-person brainstorming sessions with my colleagues were exciting. Having this social environment helps keep my creative spark going. Family a Huge Motivating Factor to Work From Home As my family grew – and child care became too expensive and hard to come by – I explored different options. These options were mainly jobs that agreed with my stay-at-home lifestyle. As a mom, I wanted to work from home remotely. It was important for me to stay up to date with all the latest industry trends in marketing, while also being able to keep my house in order. Being home for my kids was my number one priority. While both options – working in office and remotely – each have their pros and cons, in my personal experience I believe that working from home outweighs commuting to the office. Remote work gave me a better work/life balance. Working from home gives me great joy, as I’m able to receive my children myself from school. I can adjust my hours and handle all of my projects around family time. Working remotely, I still reach my goals before any given deadline. I’m much happier being at home and in turn I give my best at work. Let’s discuss the pros and cons for working from home, in my opinion. Keep reading for some helpful advice to stay productive with kids in the house. Pros for Remotely Working From Home You Save Money Working Remotely Working remotely allows you to be frugal in many different ways. Save money on soaring gas prices, that impacts your car, bus, or train ride. Not to mention all the office clothes you don’t have to buy for your wardrobe. I don’t know about you, but I barely remember (or have the time) to pack a lunch. So, eating out was a constant when I worked in the office. Working from home, I cook my own food and save so much money! via GIPHY Be Happier in The Comfort of Your Own Home The best part about working from home – in my opinion – is being comfortable. We’ve all seen the hilarious TikTok’s on people dressed professionally waist up, but everything else (not in the camera view) might be underwear and slippers. The beauty of being in the comfort of your own home helps you be relaxed. Studies show that happiness makes people more productive at work, even up to 20% more productive than employees who are not happy. via GIPHY Be Healthier and More Productive The time not spent commuting allows you to be more productive at home, whether it’s catching up on some house work or getting a head start on your daily tasks for a successful day at work. By having better use of your time, you can develop some healthy habits as well. Maybe squeeze in an hour of exercise before work, or take your breaks outside for some sunshine and fresh air. I used to have an hour long commute, and working from home now allows me to walk my daughter to school instead of driving her there. Not only do I get some great quality time chatting with her, but I also walk just over a mile a day that I wouldn’t be doing otherwise. via GIPHY Cons for Working Remotely from Home Distractions and Interruptions However, working remotely with kids comes with its fair share of challenges – especially as mothers – such as being distracted. This Survey found that most mom and dads who worked from home early on in the coronavirus pandemic reported difficulties getting their work done without interruptions. Not to say working in the office doesn’t come with its fair share of daily interruptions as well, they are just different kind of distractions. via GIPHY Valuable In-Peron Collaborations The importance of being able to collaborate in person is not lost on me. Especially for execs like Elon Musk – who infamously gave his employees a return-to-the-office ultimatum. Working in an office with your peers still allows you to have an invaluable connection. With the rise of digital chats and video calls, working remotely has proven to be a great boost in quality of life while still maintaining your connection with your work colleagues. Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and other video chats allow employees to stay connected, even if it’s through a screen. via GIPHY Whether you’ve been working from home for a while now, or are a work-from-home rookie caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it still may be hard to stay focused outside of your work environment. Keep reading for some helpful tips and tricks I’ve found along the way to help you stay productive while you work from home – especially with kids. Work from Home Tip #1: Have a Dedicated Space for Your Home Office Not every one has the resources to have their own home office, and that’s okay! But if you can, it is truly a blessing to have your own room for privacy. Having comfortable furniture is a must. A computer desk, cozy chair, and lamps are great to set yourself up for success. Here are some options I have purchased myself and used over the years. The quality is great and I personally love these choices. If you are looking for a desk, I highly recommend this L-shape desk. The bottom draw is large enough to keep your files organized, and there is a really neat bookshelf with plenty of space for storage underneath. Place your desk next to a window for some natural sunlight if you can! And if you want a computer mat for your desk, this one is what I ordered and was great quality: This is the exact same Serta chair I bought that fit nicely with the desk. My home office definitely makes work from home a paradise! Other Options When a Home Office Is Not Possible Conversely, not every home I’ve lived in had the space to have a whole room dedicated to my office. But with a little bit of creativity I’ve seen some people turn unthinkable spaces (such as a backyard shed) into their work place! I actually sold my larger home and “downsized” to live more simply. Currently, I have multiple work stations set up all over my house. For example, I have computer desks in my bedroom, living room, and even kitchen corner. Depending on where the kids are when I need to work, I’ll pick the quietest area of the house to settle down and complete my projects. As long as you have a space that the rest of the family respects that is set up for you, it works! This laptop desk was a present to my husband from his boss that encouraged him to work from home and take care of his mental health during the pandemic. After using this more than he did, I caved and bought my own. It’s perfect for lounging on the couch while catching up on emails. If you prefer a laptop desk that doubles as a bed tray, this is the one I use: Having a place where you can work without distractions is crucial to make your work from home job successful. Set it up with comfortable furniture to turn your office dream into a reality. Work from Home Tip #2: Have a Daily Routine and Stick With It Having a daily routine will help establish your responsibilities. Not to say you cant have a flexible schedule when working from home, but having some kind of plan and schedule will help you stay on task. As a working mom, I am fortunate to have a husband who understands when I need a moment to myself to dedicate some time to my job. If your hours are a little more strict, discuss with your partner to see if you can take turns with childcare. What works for us is having a “tag-team” schedule. One of us watches the kids while the other one works and vice versa. A great idea that came highly recommended from my veteran mom friends is to work during your child’s nap time. I can attest to this advice, as the best time for me to work is at bedtime. I love a quiet house and get so much done. See if knocking out a few hours of work at bedtime can work for you too! Hybrid Schedule: Work From Home and in the Office If you’re not able to work remotely full-time, maybe a hybrid schedule will work best for both you and your employer. Even before the coronavirus shut down many businesses, I was blessed with employers that allowed me to do some type of hybrid schedule. A typical week for me might have been half-days in the office and working the rest of the day from home, or a few days in the office and a few days working remotely. The key here is to keep open communication with your supervisor or boss. As long as you are able to perform your job duties without any problems, a hybrid schedule can be a great solution. Working a hybrid schedule gives you the best of both worlds by being able to see your co-workers some days, as well as having a better handle with things at home. Take advantage of work-from-home days, perhaps you catch up on much needed sleep, or get a few loads of laundry during your break time. Work from Home Tip #3: Create a To-do List To Stay On Track As mentioned earlier, having a schedule is crucial to having a successful work from home schedule, especially with kids. Creating a to-do list will keep you stay centered by itemizing all your assignments for the day. Treat your work-from-home day no different than if you were in the office. By asking yourself what needs to be accomplished for the day, you can stay focused and continue to excel in your profession. Work from Home Tip #4: Don’t Waste Time on Social Media This is probably the biggest fear for most employers – but please don’t waste time on social media when you are supposed to be working. Unfortunately, some people take advantage of “working from home” by not working at all. Don’t be that employee! via GIPHY Leave your errands for your break time, lunch, or after your work day is over. Try to limit distractions from the TV, your phone, and other electronics that you wouldn’t have access to working in office anyway. When working from home, being available and having your work completed when you say it will be completed is crucial to making your work-from-home gig successful. Employers have started monitoring their employees, and honestly, who can blame them? If you are on their payroll, your activity during work time shouldn’t be a mystery. Emails, browsers, and collaboration tools are all easily accessible. If you are given the opportunity to work from home, then please still give your all and report your time honestly and fairly. (The bible says, “Blessed are they who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times!” Psalm 106:03) Work from Home Tip #5: Get Help With Childcare If Needed If you find that working from home has too many challenges with your children present, reach out for help! Friends and family members who are capable of watching your babies are more than happy to lend a...

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The Best Easy Peasy Banana Muffins Recipe

BearfruitBasics — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 21:48:38 +0000

I buy way too many bananas every time I go shopping. It’s an easy snack, healthy, and great for smoothies. However, if you can’t eat them fast enough, they go bad – quick! This is why I’ve perfected the art of making banana muffins! If you find yourself in the same pickle as I do – with plenty of bananas that have reached the mushy stage – don’t through them away just yet! I have the best, easy-peasy banana muffin recipe to use. It’s so easy, even the little ones can make it. Not only do they come out perfect every time, but the best part is you can customize this recipe to add whatever you want. What’s So Special About Banana Muffins? According to WebMD, bananas contain many nutrients that help lower your risk of stroke, prevents kidney stones, keeps your muscles strong, and your bones healthy. Bananas have fiber, and contains vitamins A, C, B6 and Magnesium. They also keep your blood pressure and cholesterol in check, as well as reducing any inflammation. So to sum it up, there are good for you. Not just for your body, but they make some great jokes too. If your family is anything like mine, we love to laugh. Knock, knock? Who’s There? Banana Muffins! Okay, I’m sure you’ve heard this joke before, (but in case you haven’t it goes like this): “Knock, knock!” “Who’s there?” “Banana.“ “Banana, who?” “Knock, Knock!” (repeat “Banana” and “knock knock” a few times before you answer with “Orange”) “Orange, who?” “Orange you glad I didn’t say Banana?“ Never underestimate a cute banana joke, especially when mushing up bananas at the same time. One of my favorite puns about bananas is this one: “You need to be extra nice to bananas, or else you’ll hurt their peelings.” LOL via GIPHY For more hilarious, clean humor about bananas to giggle about while you make banana muffins with the kiddos, you can always check out more banana jokes here. So back to baking: Grab your old, mushy bananas, a bowl, and the following ingredients below, and let’s get started! Shopping List Here are the things I recommend that you’ll need: Banana Muffins Recipe And that’s it! You did it! Banana muffins in five simple steps. via GIPHY So instead of throwing away mushy bananas next time, please give this a try. If you enjoyed this post, you can stay connected with Bearfruit Basics by following us on instagram and signing up for our newsletter! Did you make the recipe? I want to see! Please tag @BearfruitBasics on Instagram.

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How to Make DIY Homemade Laundry Soap Recipe

BearfruitBasics — Tue, 08 Mar 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Why Use DIY Laundry Soap? The first time I looked up a homemade DIY laundry soap recipe, was when my son was around one year old. It was evident that he had developed eczema. At this time, his skin is so agitated, dry, and cracked. I begin to try everything I can to make sure I’m doing the best for his health. So we take him to get an allergy test, and this proves to be a huge help! After the results come in, we start to eliminate all of the foods that he is sensitive and/or allergic to. Although changing his diet starts to clear up most of his skin issues, my research into eczema also reveals more. The Dangers of Using the Wrong Laundry Detergent There are things that we put on our skin that have an impact on us. For example, the wrong laundry soap can have a negative impact on our skin, especially to those suffering with eczema. Some detergents have chemicals that irritate your skin, thus triggering eczema. If you are a mom with a child or family member with eczema, getting rid of the chemical dangers around you can understandably be your priority! In addition to laundry soap, also check out your household cleaning spray and aerosol sprays that could have a negative impact on the toxins in your house. Perhaps if you’re short on time, or if your preference is to purchase a laundry soap detergent instead of making your own, look for “clear” and “free” alternatives. These detergents promise to be free of perfumes and dyes. Homemade DIY Laundry Detergent Recipe Not only is creating your own laundry detergent a healthier, chemical-free alternative, but it is also extremely economical! Whatever your reason may be to try making your own laundry soap recipe, here is the recipe I have used for years with great success. To answer the obvious question: yes, it actually cleans clothes very well! Ingredients Here are the ingredients you need to create your own laundry soap: Instructions Our homemade DIY laundry recipe has worked wonders for my son’s skin. (Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, and am only sharing what has worked for us in regards to his eczema. Please consult with your family physician for a professional, medical opinion.) Have you ever tried making your own homemade laundry soap recipe? Let me know in the comments below! Follow me on instagram at @bearfruitbasics for more DIY tips!

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