Author: Breegan Jane

Download the Reme app to Relax and Rejuvenate!

Moms. We know when the babies need changing, what time to be at the recital, and where dad mistakenly put his keys. We’ve memorized the morning, afternoon and nighttime routines. We practically know and do what’s best for everyone—except ourselves. Thankfully, there are resources like the Reme app to be there for us when we can’t be there for ourselves. Here’s why moms need Reme for moments of much-needed relaxation and self-care that don’t come often enough.

Services

The Reme app offers services for muscle stretching, massages and IV therapy—AND I LOVE THEM ALL! Massages are provided in three packages, and you get to decide if you need 60, 75 or 90 minutes of pure deep tissue or Swedish bliss! The stretching services help to relieve muscle tension and increase energy and overall body performance, which can be extremely helpful for moms who are on their feet all day.

One of the best services that I use on the Reme app is IV Therapy. It has helped on occasions when I felt under the weather, and on other occasions when I needed a healthy pick-me-up. Made primarily of water, the eight IV therapy sessions focus on hydration, energy, recovery, revitalization, detoxing, immunity support, and a combination of them all. I recently felt run down after a busy day and taking care of my boys. I used the Reme app to order the “ReBoot Me” IV therapy, and within hours I felt able to jump back in the game. It’s been a great service to have at my access.

Reme app after hours

Here’s another kicker, moms: you don’t have to go ANYWHERE to enjoy the Reme app services! Once you try it, I promise you will never forget the simplicity of being in your home and getting the individualized rejuvenation all moms need. I know there are some days for me that I have really great intentions of going out, but I also have the simultaneous thought of nothing getting done if I have to walk one more step (feel me, moms?). With Reme, professionals will show up at your home, and you will It’s something that I appreciate that’s just for me (besides binging television, of course) at the end of the night.

Reme versus the others

What makes Reme different from other home health services is their mission and philosophy of holistic health and health improvement. Yes, mom, you may desperately need someone to rub out the knots and tension in your muscles. But Reme is concerned about your tired muscles AND helping you understand how to take better care of those muscles—plus your mind and emotions—before you overuse them.

As of this blog’s publishing I’ve had two experiences with Reme massage therapists. One masseuse also worked in a physical therapist’s office, and the other worked with an acupuncture therapist. I love the broad diversity and dexterity among Reme’s professionals. They’ve seemed to care about the holistic aspects of my massage, not just creating an ambiance with candles and music. I honestly appreciate that they want me to heal and restore myself mentally, emotionally and physically.

What’s more, they gave me suggestions and advice as experts that helped me understand what was really going on with my body. I would have never known that the sensitivity in the right side of my body was caused by more tension in the left side of my body—which caused my right side to painfully compensate more. Corrective and proactive methodologies post-session really made me feel well cared for.

Just do it!

Moms, you owe it to yourselves to give the Reme app a try. I promise you’ll get hooked—in a good way. The Reme team will ensure you are ready to tackle everything you need to do! Download the Reme app and prepare to re-awaken who you are as a woman, mom and beautiful human!

As a BreeganJane.com reader, you can get 10% off massage and stretch services, as well as REhydrate ME or REenergize ME IV services by using promo code Breegan10! Download the app here: http://bit.ly/2I2geVx

My Child Is No Angel. Yours Isn’t, Either.

I think all moms can relate to this scenario: you’re out in public, and your child does something embarrassing. Like, TOTALLY embarrassing. You go through extreme internal mom paranoia. You question every lesson you tried to teach your kid. You finally get to the point of asking, “Where did I go wrong??! I thought I was a good parent.”

Let me reassure you. You’re a great parent. Your child is just a child, going through typical child development.

Social pressures

When kids are tiny infants, there’s no pressure of school or interactions with other kids. There’s no pressure to consider how your infant is perceived. It’s just a cute baby in a stroller. As they grow, though, external forces like social settings can affect their behaviors. Moreover, your child’s behaviors at this point of child development can affect everyone around them. During this stage I’d venture to say there is more pressure on the parents than the child. That needs to change.

Shame on them, shame on me?

I know this from experience. I have a son who, at this point in his development, has been known to take a ball from another kid and run. My people-focused, shame-based feelings lead to introspective questions like: “What do I do? How do I react in a way that doesn’t make me look bad?” In those moments it’s all about our own emotional states. Our responses have nothing to do with our children. Those responses do, however, have everything to do with where we are within ourselves, and how we feel others view us.

When moms worry about judgment from other adults, they shy away from correcting bad behavior. Instead they choose to save face and allow those behaviors continue indefinitely. Healthy and loving discipline is often absent in these moments all because of the fear of shame. Don’t be unfair to yourself! Your kid’s negative choices don’t reflect bad parenting! Different adults will handle situations in various ways, but ignoring unwanted behavior is definitely not the answer.

I have been told that I’m really hard on my boys. Not everyone agrees with with how I deal with their behavior (and not everyone will agree with you). But I believe brushing bad behaviors under the table will inevitably cause them to happen again. So, I choose to be overly vocal with them: “Absolutely not! Give him back his ball. You’re in time-out because of your choice. Sit down, and let’s talk about better choices next time.”

Choose to act

Look, a kid is a kid is a kid. This is what kids do at this point of child development. They’re discovering and testing boundaries at every turn. As a mom, I get it. They need to learn, and they learn by making choices—sometimes not great ones. But I can’t allow my kids to challenge me mentally, emotionally or socially to learn those lessons. Discipline, I believe, is a catalyst for healthy processing.

The root of who we are as human beings is this: sometimes we make good decisions, and sometimes we make bad decisions. They don’t make us good or bad people. Our kids are not bad kids, but particular things they do can be. A good choice for me is pointing out the negative in the moment, even if it hurts.

Parents, stop being embarrassed to correct your kids in public. Don’t avoid hard situations. When you see something, especially when it comes to YOUR kids, say something and ACT! Setting boundaries isn’t a bad thing at all. Whether it is a balloon, another kid’s toy, or even a sharp object, kids want what they want. Our job as adults is always going to be sticking to those boundaries. Wisdom is a skill our kids just haven’t mastered yet in this phase of child development.

Our charge

So no, my child is no angel. I don’t expect him to be. I do, however, have requirements of myself as his mom. I feel obligated to ensure my child grows up to be a respectful human. That requires me to address negative behaviors in the moment. I choose to do that with or without watchful eyes as we ride our bikes or get froyo at that little shop we love so much. I won’t stand under a cloud of shame that does not belong to me, and neither should you.

Think Like An Interior Designer

There are a number of misconceptions about interior design and what interior designers actually do. The one I hear most is that interior decorating with a professional is expensive. That’s both true and false. You can spend as much or as little as you’d like, but interior designers don’t determine that. There are much more important things for us to consider when it comes to beautifying your home, and I think those are vital for potential clients to know. Thinking like an interior designer will ultimately help you save money, time and possible frustration when making decisions regarding the space you invest and live in.

What’s your motivation?

Here’s a tip the typical interior designer won’t tell you: your budget shouldn’t be the first thing you think about when designing your space. I, like many of you, believed that for years when I lived in an apartment. Now I know the most important thing is being intentional with your decisions. That starts with asking what you want to do, and why you want to do it.

I recently worked with a client who had a multi-million dollar home. After several rounds of exchanged thoughts and pitched concepts, I finally had to ask her, “Can we talk about why this is important to you?” The conversation took us in a completely different direction with design. I think she is a much happier home owner because of it.

Before you consider how much you want to spend to design your space, ask yourself a few questions: Why do you want to design your space? What’s most important to you in a space? What would you notice was missing? Is there something about the entire space you don’t like, or only certain aspects of it? Do you want a complete overhaul, or does the space need just a few adjustments? Asking these or similar questions will help you properly plan the design.

How do you want to feel?

The next question to consider is how you want to feel when you spend time in a room. Whether it’s the living room, bedroom or kitchen, ask yourself what mood you want to be in when you’re in that room. Do you want to feel vibrant and alive, or relaxed and calm? Will it primarily be a social area where people hang out, or a place for rest or moments of clarity? Does red create the energy you want, or is blue more impactful?

This line of questioning is key because many clients stop at what they want out of a space visually. But that’s simply making a series of choices. What I do as an interior designer is focus holistically on creating the entire space! When skilled interior designers do that well, you can walk into a space and immediately sense the intentioned vibe. It’s not just one piece here or something there; it encompasses everything! You don’t necessarily see it; you feel it! As an interior designer I want you to think about experiencing that feeling whenever you step into the space we create together.

What’s your timeline?

Making a space yours is a step-by-step process. It Takes Time! There’s no rule that says you have to design every inch of your space at once. Think about it: we all naturally but slowly add things to our homes: new photo frames, rugs, art, etc. Just begin with what’s most important to you.

Start with one desired purchase at a time, and make more as you are able to. If you cannot purchase the coffee table you want right now, get some of the books you want to put on it. You will be one step closer to completing the intentional feel you want in your space! Opt to get the lamps or lampshades you want, and wait to get the side tables. Switch out your bed sheets or comforter, then do the head board. It will ultimately shape up to be all that you want it to be.

Did you notice none of the considerations mentioned have anything to do with specific dollar amounts? That’s exactly my point, and that’s what an interior designer should help you think about. It doesn’t matter to me how much or how little a client has. I can furnish an entire home from what many would consider “budget” retailers or online sites. When it comes to interior design, it’s never about choosing a high-end retailer over a less expensive store. A beautiful pillow is a beautiful pillow, regardless of where it was purchased. What matters is if it evokes something special within you, and if it enhances the overall appeal of your space.

This is how I and other helpful interior designers think when it comes to designing a space. I encourage you to consider these questions for your next interior project. I guarantee it will bring more meaning, definition and long-lasting happiness to your interior design plans!

The Best Delivery Services for Moms On the Go

Moms are always on the go. Always! Recitals, sports, playdates, time with grandparents (because that’s important), and a host of other events keep mom calendars populated. And usually when (if!) we moms get a moment, it’s taken up with our own to-do lists. Moms, I have a tip for you. Let someone else handle your to-do list! It’s possible! Here are a few delivery services for moms on the go that I absolutely love!

Make Meals in Minutes

I’m a mom and professional that’s usually out in the morning with varying daily schedules. That means making meals can be a bit of a challenge. Sometimes. If that’s you too, one of the first delivery services for moms I would recommend would be a meal prep service. And there’s a HOST of them out now!

Regardless of your budget—and your kids’ picky taste buds—there’s bound to be a meal-kit service that will fit your needs. From Hello Fresh to Blue Apron and beyond, there’s so many from which you can choose. Vegan? No Problem! Companies like The Purple Carrot have your menu covered. Want gluten-free meals? Consider Freshly, where all meals are gluten- and peanut-free. Just do yourself a favor, mom, and go discover how to get great meals coming to your door. Check dinner off the list!

Bring It To Me!

Maybe you don’t trust someone else picking your family recipes just yet. I understand completely. You can still save yourself some time by getting your grocery list together and have it come to you! When it comes to delivery services for moms on the go, you can rely on Instacart!

Their slogan says they’re “the best way to shop for groceries.” I couldn’t agree more, ladies. You can create your list on the Instacart app at night after the kids are in bed. When you wake up, your groceries can be on their way to you! You even get the name of your personal shopper, when they start shopping, and when they finish. You’ll know when they leave the store and get real-time GPS locations of when your groceries will get to you! Fora nominal fee and a tip (not required, but nice), you can’t beat it. Your time is worth it!

Enjoy Some PRIME Time

Okay, so what about non-food items? If you know me, you know where I do most of my shopping. One of my favorite delivery services for moms is Amazon! From kaftans to baby supplies, Halloween outfits and more, Amazon is a one-stop shop for practically anything.

Shopping on Amazon is so convenient. Plus, most of the prices there are cheaper than what you would find in a brick-and-mortar store. And if you become a Prime member, you can get most of anything you need within a day or two. I LOVE that! It’s so helpful around the holidays and birthdays when I may not have the time to go shopping for gifts. I also love that Amazon has “dash buttons” for things that I always need, like toiletries and home supplies. If I’m running low on paper towels, I hit a dash button, and I’ll have it in a day or two! It really is as simple as that, moms.

A Doctor at your Door

How many times have dealt with your child not feeling well after office hours? Too many to count, if you ask me. And honestly, sometimes I want my child to have immediate care. Most of those times I don’t have hours to wait in Urgent Care. And I can get it—in my home! The Heal app is one of those delivery services for moms that has surprisingly gone under the radar.

Heal has a network of medical professionals available from 8 am to 8 pm. All you have to do is make an appointment via the app. A physician or pediatrician will come to your home and see your (or you) privately in your home. You get to see the cost of the visit before they come out, and you get professional recommendations for care and prescriptions (if needed). This service is beneficial for the entire family—and give you peace of mind.

Soothe Your Own Soul

Whew! You’ve taken care of everyone else. Isn’t it time you take care of you? ABSOLUTELY! One of the last delivery services for moms I would recommend is Soothe. And trust me: this service does just that!

Imagine getting the kids to school or putting the kids down for the night and finally having a quiet moment to yourself. You can book a massage for yourself in minutes and have a vetted professional masseuse knocking on your door anytime between 8 am and midnight! Don’t worry about anything; your massage therapist will arrive with the massage table, sheets, lotions, oils and music! Talk about being pampered! But you deserve it for all that you do! And, you get to enjoy the privacy of your home during and after your session. I know from experience that it’s pure heaven.

Your time and energy are so valuable, moms. Take advantage of some of these delivery services and give yourself a break. You’ll be glad you did.

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Have you tried any of these services, or others? I’d love to know about your experience in the comments!

Talking Skin Care with Dove Partner Shani Darden!

As a mom and working professional, I am very aware of how I look, feel and care for my body. Being on the go and having an ever-changing routine causes me to prioritize hygiene and skin care each day. Because of that, I was super excited to attend an invitation-only launch of the new Dove Dry Serum Antiperspirant. Having been a fan of their hypoallergenic baby products for years, I couldn’t wait to find out more about this antiperspirant.

Along with the new product, I was extremely excited to talk to their exclusive product partner, Shani Darden! A 12-year veteran in the skin care industry, Shani is the esthetician to the stars. She has refreshed the faces of noted celebrities such as Jessica Alba, Chrissy Teigen, Kelly Rowland, Kim Kardashian, and so many more. Though a sought-after professional now, Shani knew her destiny would be in facial care at an early age.

“Though I didn’t know I was going to be an esthetician,” Shani explained, “I’ve been obsessed with skin care since I was around 8-years-old. When I came out here [to LA], I did a bunch of other things, but I finally realized what I was supposed to do.”

Stop Sun Damage

That realization led to a thriving career helping women across Los Angeles with a host of beauty and wellness treatments. Her number one tip for ladies just starting their skin journey?

“Stay out of the sun, and wear sunscreen!” Shani advised.

Yes, the sun can be an excellent source of vitamin D. However, its harmful rays can lead to early aging and unwanted hyperpigmentation. We all love the sun, but protecting our skin now means clear and healthy skin later in life. Shani recommends her favorite sunscreen, Supergoop!, as a great product for protection.

Shani stressed the need for ladies to keep sunscreen in their bags during the day. Sunscreen is only potent for a certain amount of hours before it requires reapplication. Busy moms on the go have unpredictable daily routines. Having sunscreen always at your access will secure proper protection no matter the circumstance.

Don’t Resist Routine

Another important part of healthy skin care, according to Shani, is adopting and sticking to a consistent routine. Shani’s simple but effective 3-3 system involves using three key products in the morning and three products in the evening.

“I recommend a cleanse, serum and sunscreen for your morning routine,” Shani explained, “and a cleanse, serum and moisturizer in the evenings. Exfoliating once a week should be a part of that routine, also.” With skin care, success does depend on consistency. Shani’s 3-3 routine is inexpensive and will help give your skin what it needs both morning and night.

Of course, celebrities tend to get professional facials quite often. I wondered how frequently skincare newbies should get them. Shani believes an esthetician will undoubtedly be able to take better care of people’s skin than they will themselves. However, she says, in between visits, you can ensure your skin will be healthy and radiant if you are treating it well with good products and keeping that routine at home. Shani suggested LED light masks, at-home facials and peels as remedies women can use to get more mileage out of professional facials.

A Fan of Facial Wipes

Shani also discussed with me another quick mom-hack for proper health care: facial cleansing wipes.

“If you can’t stop and clean your face, throw a cleaning wipe in your bag,” Shani recommends. “Just make sure you are taking care of your skin all the time.”

And that can be difficult. Every busy mom knows what it’s like at the end of a long and tiring day: You’ve fed the family, read bedtime stories, checked homework and put kids to bed. The idea of a long skin care (and sometimes even short) routine after all that can feel daunting. On nights when your energy level just won’t allow more, consider at the very least using a facial cleansing towelette to remove all of the makeup and debris from your face. Nothing will ever beat an actual cleansing routine with cleanser and water, but in a pinch, this will do.

Obsessed with Serums

I learned so much from Shani about skin care, and that led me to ask why she chose to collaborate with Dove on the Dry Serum Antiperspirant.

“I’m obsessed with serums,” Shani explained, “because they have a higher concentration of active ingredients. They have smaller molecules, so they absorb into the skin quicker. I love that this new Dove Dry Serum Antiperspirant comes in three different fragrances and goes on really light. The best part is that it’s mixed with one-quarter moisturizer, so it’s smooth and hydrating. Also, it protects you for 48 hours from wetness and odor. I lean over people all day long doing treatments, so that’s a big thing for me.”

I became a bigger fan of both Shani Darden and Dove after this product launch. I left with a better understanding of skincare that I can utilize daily, and I also left with a new hygiene product that I feel very confident about using. For more information on Shani Darden or the new Dove Dry Serum Antiperspirant, visit shanidarden.com and dove.com.

Mommy Multitasking: Maintaining Non-Mom Relationships

It goes without saying that moms are the world’s greatest multitaskers. Who else can wipe a runny nose, brine a chicken, carefully “lose” a game of hide-n-seek and check for monsters under the bed, all while nursing a newborn? NOBODY, that’s who! Let’s all admit it: moms are superheroes with magical powers hiding in plain sight! Even superheroes and heroines need a few tips on how to increase efficiency every now and then. This series will explore all the ways in which moms balance the realities of maternal bliss and madness!

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I’ve blogged about maintaining important relationships with other moms, but those aren’t the only friends mom have (or it shouldn’t be that way). Mom, you had plenty of friendships with single and non-mom adults before you were a parent. You shouldn’t let those relationships fall by the wayside simply because you have little human responsibilities added to your life’s plate. As with all things, maintaining your non-mom relationships will require balance, but here are a few tips to help you keep those friendships fresh.

Use “Happy Hour”

Whether you’re in the office or with kids, I’ve found that one of the most convenient times to steal some friendship time is between 4 pm and 6 pm, a.k.a. “Happy Hour.” I say this for two reasons. If you’re a working mom, chances are the office won’t notice if you steal time by 4 pm; enough work has been done by that point for the day. Also, if you have a nanny or sitter with your kids, it’s much easier to ask them to stay for an hour or so longer versus asking them to come back and stay late in the evening.

Even if you can’t get away, the 4-6 time may be a great time to catch up with friends via phone. This is especially a great time if you need to catch up with friends in different time zones. In any case, “happy hour” is a great time to catch up or check in with friends before going into serious “home mom” mode for the day.

Intentional Talk Time

Speaking of phone calls, it’s so important to let your friends know that you haven’t forgotten about them. Parenting keeps all of us busy, and downtime is oftentimes non-existent. But somewhere between the diaper changes, wiping food off the floor, washing clothes and the back-and-forth of daycare, find a moment to call (or at the very least text) your friends to let them know they’re on your mind. Chances are you’re thinking about them more times than they think of you; I know I think about my non-mom friends when I dealing with vomit- or poop-related situations. “Missing you like crazy, girl!” might go a long way in making your friends feel loved.

There is a vulnerable conversation you need to have with your non-mom friends regarding reasonable and unrealistic expectations of how communication will happen now that you’re a parent. This will help promote understanding for all parties involved, if done right. Talk for a few minutes (notice I didn’t say “complain for hours”) about all you’re going through with your little one, so they can see why you end up passed out on the couch for much of the time you used to spend with them. Chances are, before they type or say to you, “You haven’t called me back in two days,” they’ll know why.

Empathy is Key

If your friendships are authentic and worth their salt, the strand that runs through your lives is the need for everyone to live their best lives. Now that you’re a parent and some of your friends aren’t, your lives may look very different. That should be okay — if you genuinely love each other and desire to see everyone shine! Lift each other up in that desire.

So you’re a parent now. A true friend would want you to be happy as a parent and would want to know all about how that’s affecting you, making you happy, etc. Likewise, your friend doesn’t have the responsibility of kids yet. You should be just as excited to know about what things they’re up to, what’s new in their lives and what’s next for them. Genuine relationships are all about wanting to help meet each other’s needs as best you can. If you had that in someone before having kids, don’t let parenthood change that. It’s invaluable to us all as humans.

I’m A Parent, Not a Memory!

Listen, parenthood may take a lot out of us, but that doesn’t mean we stop living! I think many non-moms have this notion in their heads that families cause us to never have the desire or want to go out. NOT TRUE! Sometimes we parents feel stigmatized because our single friends stop asking us to go out. It’s a real thing! But non-moms need to know that we still like being asked to go out and do things with them. Even if we can’t because of the kids, it’s still nice to be asked.

I understand that having kids may cause our single friends to hesitate about hanging out because of the family factor, but the key, again, is communicating about these things with your friends. Be open and transparent about that. If you don’t mind going out every once in awhile, let them know! And, don’t be afraid to ask them out! Squeaky wheels get the grease! I will caution you, parents, not to connect with your friends to go out only when you need a reprieve from kids. That can border on or feel like manipulation to non-moms. Friendly outings should be about genuine connection — always!

Kids bring joy to our lives, but so do our adult friendships. When it comes to friends who haven’t or choose not to be parents, the joy of interaction should never be put into question. Be mindful to keep your non-mom friends as close as they were before the kids, and you’ll have support for life…as it always should be!

Must-have Co-parenting Tips and Hacks!

Co-parenting may not be easy for divorced couples, but it certainly isn’t impossible. I’ve had my share of complications. But, I’ve also seen success when I applied positive methods that worked for both my kids’ father and me. Today I’m sharing my must-have co-parenting tips and hacks for separated or divorced parents.

Quarterly Meetings

My first co-parenting tips is to consider setting a meeting once each season (four times a year) with your co-parent. Bring along calendars, notebooks and anything else you’ll need to record important information. I know what you’re thinking: but we see each other all the time! That may be true. However, these meetings differ in that they will give you both an opportunity to discuss major life decisions instead of the everyday stuff.

Maybe one parent has been thinking of switching pediatricians. The other parent may be considering signing the kids up for sports or taking the kids on a vacation. Talking about these big decisions will alleviate one parent being surprised by a choice that seemingly came out of nowhere. Plan to meet once a season to keep everyone abreast of all plans. This can definitely help keep the peace.

Therapy Is For Everyone

The world we live in is growing more complicated by the day, and that in itself can be too much for some to deal with alone on a day-to-day basis. Thankfully, everyone, from the medical community to the music industry, is working to remove the stigma associated with getting help for mental health issues. When navigating through the challenges co-parenting brings, therapists can often be the reason you and your ex-spouse remain out of court.

Co-parenting tip number two: find a good therapist who understands the wants and needs of all parties involved. He/she will help the two of you communicate about difficult topics without tempers flaring and unnecessary arguments. You may even find that you have an easier time empathizing with one another. That can only be good for the most important people involved: the kids!

Holiday Time Sharing

This is a biggie. When divorced couples fail to master sharing time with kids, it is almost always problematic. We all get it. Everyone wants to have their precious little ones with them on the holidays. This is a great opportunity for both parents to put aside their own desires and prioritize a more peaceful and harmonious environment for the kids.

The key to creating a workable schedule is two-fold. First, decide to be selfless. Halloween might be your favorite holiday. But, if you’ve had the kids the last two years, consider asking the other parent if (s)he would like to switch it up this time. You’ll often find that a little compassion goes a long way in softening a tough exterior. The bonus is that (s)he will be more likely to compromise a bit on the next issue that arises.

The second part of this co-parenting tip involves a little flexibility. While holidays have specific calendar dates, the sentiment is what we all look forward to. Instead of secretly pouting when your ex has the kids on a day you love, elect to celebrate that holiday on the alternate date you will have the kids. For instance, if the other parent has the kids on Christmas day, why not choose to leave gifts wrapped and the tree up until the day afterward? Postpone your favorite traditions and do them when the kids return to you. Children are much more interested in the time spent and consistency, not the date they do things.

Join Forces For the Greater Good

This one may take the heaviest emotional lifting of all. But if you and your co-parent can manage it, the result will be happier, more well-adjusted children. If possible (and it may take some time), commit along with your ex to do something once a month together with the children. Often, divorce and co-parenting can breed an unhealthy tension in the air. This is not only felt by the adults but the children, as well. These are often the catalysts for acting out and suppressed emotions that kids’ little minds aren’t quite clear how to express at young ages.

If you and your co-parent can agree to take small chunks of time each month to spend time together with the kids, it can often be quite instrumental in bringing emotional relief to the anxious little minds we all want to protect. The commitment can be for something as small as a 30-45 minute breakfast or meeting to go to the child’s sports activity.

Nobody is saying co-parenting is ever easy, but it can definitely be manageable. Let these co-parenting tips help you along your journey to healthier, more peaceful parenting!

International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM

I think we tend to throw around the phrase “life-changing” too frivolously these days. A decadent meal at brunch is “life changing.” An amazing concert is “life changing.” Even an exhilarating roller-coaster ride seems to warrant the description of “life-changing.” These things are often rousing, even impactful. But life changing may be a bit of a stretch.

Last March I had the opportunity to experience something that was not only life changing for me but for so many other young lives. I visited the great continent of Africa with World Vision. I had to witness with my own lives the progress being made in Kenya to eradicate FGM or female genital mutilation.

Zero Tolerance For FGM

On today, the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, I want to remind you of how important it is to give back to those who need it the most. Young women ages 8 to 14 in this region must often endure FGM before being married off at their young ages. It is a heinous cultural practice that oftentimes results in girls contracting infections and diseases. It is not uncommon for many girls to even die because of it.

A desperate few fearfully undertake a long trek in the bush to escape what surely awaits them if they remain at home. They run away to find shelters known as “safe havens.” Once there, they are taken in by women who work tirelessly to help the girls adjust and thrive in a world full of opportunity by way of acquiring education. For the first time, the possibility of becoming nurses or doctors, or anything other than simply a man’s wife, becomes very real. That’s what “life-changing” truly is.

Upon my return to the States, a number of emotions filled me from within. Seeing the hard work of so many providing new freedoms and futures for these precious young women. I felt an overwhelming desire to do more. It simply didn’t seem good enough to help one, two, even five groups of women escape FGM. In my mind and heart, we needed to eradicate FGM for good!

 

What YOU Can Do

You may be among the many reading this thinking FGM is too big of an issue. It’s possible you think making a significant impact is almost impossible. That isn’t true. My family has been donating a percentage of our incomes to this cause year after year. Those donations built a home for girls fleeing FGM.

For the price of what you may spend in a weekend, you can sponsor a girl for an entire year. You can give her the chance to change her world and future. By donating to this cause, you are not only helping the plight of eradicating FGM; you are giving these young girls a future that surpasses the one they’ve only dreamed about.

Today, on International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, I sincerely hope you’ll join me in the fight to help these women, to empower them to be leaders in their own communities, and to eradicate FGM once and for all. For even more information, click here. To make a donation, click here.

2019 Las Vegas Market: Igniting the Creative Spark

If you’re a creative, you know and recognize how important it is to find, seize and harness that creative energy because it feeds your soul like fuel! That is precisely what participating in Las Vegas Market is like. It is where design nobility lives. Las Vegas Market is filled with showroom after showroom of hundreds of thousands of products right at your convenient access. This was my second year attending, and my eyes danced about the entire trip.

Palecek Impressions

I love that you get to see so many different styles all in one place. Palecek Designs caught my eye, and there’s no question why. They impressed me with their refined take on coastal chic. As a native Cali girl I can tell you that there is most certainly a right and wrong way to do it, and they’ve nailed it. The pieces were certainly beachside adjacent without the overstated typical stylings we often see from other designers. I’m excited about being able to offer my Malibu clientele options that feel familiar and appropriate without being so exaggerated. Palecek is one to keep your eye on!

Venice in Vegas

Visiting Las Vegas Market is like going Christmas shopping for friends and family but not being able to resist getting yourself something because it’s all so enticing! I met up with my fellow big-haired friend Justina Blakeney last week, and stopped by Selamat Designs showroom. I was drawn to a true Venice Beach piece, a gorgeous hanging egg chair. These are the types of finds that had me dreaming up places to put them in my own spaces! I enjoyed browsing all of the lovely designs she displayed.

Brand Highlights

If you have furniture fever or lighting lust, Noir Furniture and Currey & Company are must-sees. Noir’s ability to span the design spectrum from amazing white distressed pieces to more polished, golden-hued accents made them a stand out at Las Vegas Market. Currey & Co always inspires me with exquisite lamps, but this year they debuted gorgeous teals, romantic maroons, and oceanic teals. The array of darker hues was splendid. Both Currey & Co and Noir dazzled at this year’s market.

Design Connections

Las Vegas Market isn’t just about the products; It connects people from all across the globe in such organic ways. I was invited to attend the Withit event with Ellen Gefen, which meant so much to me because of my own journey in the world of design. Working with women at Market and learning from them has been an amazing experience. I am constantly encouraged and empowered by the support other women have given me throughout my career. I am sincerely grateful for that.

Attending the Withit event and hearing more about the realities of the design world was sobering. While women are typically the homemakers and decision makers for the shopping and style decisions inside the home, the design industry itself is run by men. I can remember the first time I heard those statistics and being surprised by them. I am no less surprised today.

There were first woman buyers, some of whom were the first ever women to be invited into these showrooms at Las Vegas Market, present at this event. I found it enlivening to be able to meet these pioneers and shake their hands. We stand on their shoulders every day in this industry. It is a bit mindblowing to realize that these “firsts” weren’t that long ago. Women supporting other women has long been one of my passions. To see that love, as well as my love for design, collide here at Market was awe inspiring.

Las Vegas Market is an experience every designer should have once, or dare I say multiple times. It will recharge, refuel and rejuvenate your creativity in a way that no other event will. Your mind, your space and your clients will all be better for it!

7 Easy Tips for Keeping a Kid-Free Home Interior Look

I love my kids. I also love having a space where my kids can run around, play and learn. But as an interior designer, I’ve never loved the idea of my kids’ carefree lifestyle overhauling my adult living space — and I know I’m not alone in that. I recently had an opportunity to be featured on KTLA-5 to present some of my ideas for designing a kid-free home interior look. Here are tips to ensure your home is comfortable, clean and kid-friendly!

Stash it with Storage!

Let’s debunk the myth that toy storage has to be ugly (or excessive!). I know I don’t want to feel like I live in a life-size Toys R Us store. For my kid-free home interior look, I use solid-colored woven baskets with lids to house all of my boys’ toys. I’ve always had this hate-hate relationship with clutter in my home, and my answer to that was woven baskets. Family homes today can get too overcrowded with toys and playful knick-knacks. But be honest: kids don’t really play with that many things at one time, do they?

Lessen the mess by keeping only what your kids love most, and donate the rest to charities like Baby2Baby. Better yet, start a toy exchange with your close friends! Save your money and get creative. One kid’s old toy is another kid’s treasure! When it comes to the big toys and games, it’s either in the basket or it’s bartered — simple as that!

If baskets aren’t your thing, consider accenting your furniture with ottomans that double as storage units. They’re stylish chameleon pieces that add more inconspicuous storage space to any room. Plus, they can function as a table top or extra seat for your toddlers, or a comfy spot for your worn feet after chasing them around. Multipurpose magic!

Quality Over Quantity

Remember mom: you’re the boss. You’re responsible for what comes in and out of your home. I am deliberate about guiding my kids’ interests when things pique their interests. Maintain a kid-free home interior look by Introducing hobbies to your children that you both love. Kids like collecting things. If those items are plasticky, multicolored toys, those will potentially be strewn across your space.

To avoid this, I tapped into something they enjoy: making necklaces and collecting crystals. I love that we can go to a local farmer’s market and collect beautiful jewels together. The boys feel empowered that they can select the ones they love and create something with it. Meanwhile, I’m thrilled the pieces don’t look tacky laying around my home. Fashion and function really can coexist!

Create Class with Colors

You can add sophisticated tastes easily and creatively with your kid-free home interior look by thinking differently about the colors you use in your home. Instead of using cliche primary color palettes that most parents think of, think more in terms of color alternatives. Instead of red, consider elevated shades like merlot, garnet or magenta. Illuminate your space with chartreuse, mint or seafoam! Your home will still be colorfully kid-appropriate, and your options are virtually limitless.

There may be some parents who feel as if they MUST use the basic colors. That’s okay, too! If you absolutely have to use Lego blue in your bouncing baby boy’s room, add a more grown-up appeal and layer cerulean, sapphire or azure in the space. Incorporate more shades within the same family of colors. You’ll be surprised at the difference that will make.

White Really Works!

One of my best kept secrets for designing a kid-free home interior look for my clients who have kids? Buy white canvas couches and purchase an extra set of white canvas covers. That way they can be switched out as needed on each cushion or back. Canvas wears exceptionally well, so your sets won’t look different. No more stressing if the kids spill things on it right before your mother-in-law stops by. Simply switch it, wash the soiled cover, and keep your peace of mind.

Another great reason to go white is that you can bleach whatever gets stained. Whether it’s baby food or baby poo, a little bleach will not only handle the blemish, but it won’t discolor the furniture. It will always be like new! I’ve never met a stain on a white surface that bleach couldn’t tackle.

Splurge on Stylish Necessities

When I had my first child, I knew that my son would need a good high chair. What *I* didn’t need was a piece of furniture with cartoon caricatures that existed in the space I used daily for both kid and adult functions. I chose to splurge on a highchair that would meet both my child’s needs and my own. The Bloom Baby highchair’s sleek design and avant-garde style didn’t look like a child had taken over my home. And because it converted, I was able to use it from infancy through my son’s toddler years. Small choices like that can make the difference in keeping a kid-free home interior look

The Frame Game

Kid art is a quintessential visual element of any family home. Pro tip: ditch the tape and magnets. Instead, exhibit your young artist’s work in a photo frame. I keep five IKEA frames (that each come with a matte) for my kids’ artwork. The frames were inexpensive, and I can rotate their art whenever they create something new. While I don’t want to “decorate” my home with kiddie originals all over the place, I do want my boys to feel valued and to know that I appreciate their artistic expression. Frames help achieve that perfectly.

Plants — Fake It!

Moms understand that time is often too precious to spend it maintaining greenery around the home. Take the pressure off and use artificial ones. Once upon a time I would have never considered or suggested that, but good artificial plants like orchids can beautify your home without the mess. Spruce up your space with artificial plants and alleviate the stress of not having your mother’s green thumb!

There are so many other things I could recommend, but these are a few major considerations. It’s not difficult to have a home that maintains a kid-friendly feel while keeping an adult appeal and atmosphere at the same time. After all, mom, you deserve both beauty and comfort!