Fall is here and the leaves are falling fast.  Will you be going down with them?  No you will not, because your going to prevent allergens from taking you down with these must have tips!

Seasonal allergies can sneak up fast and be the cause for illness, missed work days, missed school days, and missed moments with the kids.  In my world I try like all get out to avoid allergy symptoms for all us because allergy symptoms do make us miserable.  We have been there and know that prevention is key!

Here are is a list of some of the things I do for our family or that can help you help your family prevent miserable allergy symptoms -

1.  Ditch the carpets - Try to have smaller carpets that can be washed often especially during peak allergy times throughout the year.  Carpets love to harbor allergens.

2.  Grab a Hepa Air Purifier for your bedroom and or for the main rooms in your home -  You would be surprised at all the dust and allergens they capture!  Click Here to check out the brand we use (amazon affiliate link).

3.  Use local honey - One of the most popular natural remedies for allergies is consuming local honey. The idea behind it is that honey produced by bees in your area contains small amounts of pollen and when exposed to small amounts of pollen, it can help you become less sensitive or build up a better tolerance for when exposed.  Bee propolis is another healthful option!  Learn more about bee propolis, benefits, and See Products HERE (amazon affiliate link).  Caution with honey and bee propolis with children.  Honey is not to be given to children one and under at all to prevent infant botulism.  Contact your health care provider if you have any questions regarding when and if it is safe to use local honey or bee propolis products prior to use.

4. Use a Neti Pot to clean the sinuses - Nasal irrigation with a neti pot is a time-tested remedy for clearing allergens from the nasal passages. A saline solution is poured through one nostril and out the other, helping to flush out mucus and irritants.  Cleaning the sinuses can help clear allergens and prevent sinus infections.  There are also special sinus rinse tools for kids!  Follow instructions per kit or allergist.

5.  Do Steam Inhalation to clear sinuses -  If you don't like the thought of using a neti pot, steam inhalation works very well to help clear the sinuses.  For adults, you can add a drop of eucalyptus or mint essential oil (caution as it can be strong and burn the eyes so do not over use, start with one drop) and for a child or teen you can add a drop of lavender or tea tree.  You must take caution with children not to burn themselves and to protect their eyes by keeping them closed.  With that said, only use with older children and teens.  What you will do is warm a bowl of water (steam distilled is best via microwave or stove top) until the water is steaming.  Add your drop of essential oil to the bowl of water then sit down with your face over the bowl just close enough to breathe in the steam without feeling the warmth of the hot water or getting to close.  Put a towel over your head to keep the steam enclosed and breathe for a few minutes or up to ten minutes.  Then blow your nose blowing only one nostril at a time to clear allergens and sinuses.

6.  Wash blankets, sheets, clothes, and pillows often - This will help keep the allergens out of your home.

7.  Take warm epsom salt baths throughout the week and shower often when exposed to high levels of outdoor allergens.  Be sure the kids are also washing their hair good.

8.  Supplement with vitamin C rich foods or supplements to keep the immune system elevated (watermelon, cantelope, oranges, lemons, grapefruits, bell peppers, tomatoes, and strawberries are a few higher in vitamin C).

9.  Eat a diet full of healthy fruits and veggies to really boost immunity, support gut health and elimination, and support hydration.

10.  Hydrate starting first thing in the morning and be sure you are staying hydrated all day.  This helps the body continuously remove toxins and keep lymph moving.  Ask your health care provider if an electrolyte supplement is right for you or your kiddo to stay on top on electrolyte balance and hydration.

11.  Keep your pets that go outdoors off of the furniture and out of your bedroom where you spend most of your time sleeping.  Wash pet blankets and beds often.

12.  Eat prebiotic rich foods (green bananas, almonds, flax, cabbage) or take a prebiotic or probiotic supplement, depending on what you might be lacking to maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

Get at your day with confidence that you have the tools to prevent symptoms from taking you down!

Be sure to check precautions of essential oils prior to use and with your health care provider.  Only use kid safe essential oils for children.  Reach out with any questions!

If you are ready to get consistent relief throughout the year, Click Here Now to book a one hour personal wellness session with me via zoom to get the education and resources you need so you and your family can feel healthy and well!  ? Jamie

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As a busy Mom, We have a million things going on and not enough time in a day.  One of the questions I had this month was "How can I simply become unbusy".  This Mom went on to say that the "busy" isn't always stressful, but it's exhausting and just "too much".

Juggling children's schedules with work and life routines isn't easy.  Wait a second... Are there even still routines after having children?  It can be a huge struggle!

The effects of being overly busy and moving at a high speed can be hard on a Mom's health and mental wellness.  Let's first look at some of the effects of constantly being in fight or flight mode presents...

Imbalanced Hormones -  Elevated cortisol levels disrupt many other hormones needed to stay physically and mentally balanced.  Disrupted and imbalanced hormones can cause inability to sleep, decreased energy, fatigue, irritability, low mood and that is just to name a few.  Mom's need to be balanced physically and emotionally.  Having less stress and living a more simple life with routines allows Mom's more time for self care, leading to better hormone balance.

Decreased Immunity -  When Mom's are on the go nonstop, they typically aren't eating the best nor taking supplements that can support what their bodies may be lacking.  This can lead to getting sick more often and a longer recovery time.  This leads to missed days of work and pay.  In a lot of cases, it also leads to the kiddos catching the bug and a repeat of missed work days, lost energy, and pay.  Following the first suggestion to create routines, time for self care, and living more stress free can boost immunity alone, without even adding those extra supplements.

Over Reacting - When Mom is overly stressed and in nonstop mode, it becomes a habit to not take the time to thoroughly think things through and overreact.  This leads to Mom guilt which is one of the worst feelings a Mom can carry around.  When Mom can follow a self care routine, cut out negativity and things that take up time that do not promote health and wellness, then Mom can focus on what her body needs emotionally to stay balanced.  This could be getting regular massages, going to weekly yoga classes, meditating, walking, etc.  Self Care can lead to better self regulation.  This means less overreacting, more thinking it through, and less Mom guilt.

Hey P.S. - if you love my tips and want even more health and wellness tips to help your family thrive, Click Here Now to sign up for my weekly email tips!  Totally Free just for you!

So how can you become "UNBUSY"?

Start Here -

1.  Set up some routines -  Start by creating three schedules, a work schedule, sleep schedule, and family time schedule.  Leave three 30 minute time frames open each day (if this isn't possible, try for at least one 30 minute time frame and two fifteen minute).  This extra time is your self care time.  It is your new YOU time.  Choose three times of the day that you can devote to yourself right now.  You can always change them later.

2.  Prioritize Self Care - Now that you are starting some new routines that allow you time for self care, you need to BLOCK this time, never over book it, and write down at least five things you would love to or could be doing during this time.  You can always add more self care items later to the check list.  Ideas could be going for a walk alone, reading about your favorite topic, making a picture book of your kiddos, taking a warm epsom salt bath, doing one of your favorite hobbies that your forgot you even enjoyed, fishing, stretching, putting on a facial mask, heck, you can even add shaving your legs and putting lotion on them!  These items can be anything, even hobbies, because remember, taking time to do what you love, clear your mind, and relieve stress creates a happier version of you.

3.  Assess - If you don't already have a calendar go ahead and draw one up quickly or print one for this month (google free printable calendar or head to printacalendar.com).  Fill in your schedule for the hours each day for a quick overview.  You do not have to go into great detail for this. 

Look at events you attend or other things you plan to do this month.  What are you doing daily, weekly, or monthly that is a waste of your time?  This is something that makes you cringe thinking about it, creates nervous tension, exhausts you, keeps you away from self care time or your children, and is literally using up your energy bit by bit.  It's time to remove the things that you can that do not promote health, wellness, or happiness in your life.  It is making you busy and your goal is to be "unbusy".

4.  Delegate - What are some of the things you do daily that keep you busy but you would rather not do them or they could be delegated?  For example, if you hate cleaning and can afford to pay someone to come a few hours a week, every other, or even once a month, then think of how much time this would save you to do things that matter more to you.  Maybe you could have your child help with a few easy chores and ask Dad to help out with a few things per week (creating a little routine for Dad too that is helpful for you).  Maybe there are things you could be asking your parents or family to help with or even your besties.  See what you can get some support with to lessen your load. 

As Mom's we try to do it all.  It is okay to ask for help though.  You can also think about ways you can offer support to others helping you, that are a struggle for them, but seamless for you.  This takes away from some of the guilt of asking for help.

5. Meal Plan -  Start meal planning to save you time during the week.  Look at your calendar weekly and note ahead of time what you have available for meal ideas, and even note when is a good night to go out to eat on the busiest days.  This allows you time to sit and eat with your children, talk and truly listen, and avoid last minute store runs, drive throughs, and clean up.  Always add nutritious snacks to your grocery list and on your meal plan too.

Part of simplifying your life is decreasing clutter (in life and your home) and saying no more often.

Think of it this way...

If you are chasing a dream but you are doing 50 things per year that do not get you closer to your dream, than why would you do them?

Follow the path that gets you and your family to your goals and dreams.  Always.

If you need help learning to clear your schedule and get a good vision on the road ahead, click below to book a wellness consultation with me and I will share with you the exact framework I used to repaint what my days, months, and year looked like so I could stay focused on my family's goals and dreams.

The start of the school year creates a shift from the carefree days of summer to a more structured routine.  As kiddos nervous systems tense up while they count down the last days until school, something else tends to travel south too... their immunity.

Worry, stress, and having a hard time adjusting to change can all weaken our immune system.  For kiddos, it is crucial to help them boost their immunity before they return to school because of all the germ exposure from the being inside a building all day with so many other kiddos and adults, change in sleep and eating routines, less time outdoors, and more time indoors sitting under florescent lights that can literally be a headache waiting to happen.

* So what can we do to help boost their immune system?

Here are a few ways you can get started today -

1. Prioritize Sleep - During the summer, sleep schedules can become more relaxed, making it challenging for Mom and child to adjust to early school mornings. Start by gradually shifting bedtime and wake-up times about two weeks before school starts. Even as little as a fifteen minute shift every few days is incredibly helpful! Create a calm bedtime routine, avoid screens before bed, and ensure they are comfy and cozy.
2. Elevate Nutrition - Encourage your kiddos to eat a rainbow of colorful fruits and veggies to offer them plenty of fiber, vitamins, including vitamin C, antioxidants, and other nutrients.  Limit sugary snacks, processed foods, and beverages, as excess sugar can weaken the immune system.  Plan your meals, snacks, and lunches ahead of time when you are prepping your grocery list.
3. Keep them Hydrated - Proper hydration is often overlooked but is crucial for our body's systems to function properly and in sync. Water helps in transporting nutrients, removing waste, and supporting overall bodily functions. Encourage your family to drink water throughout the day by sending your kids to school and sports with water bottles and having water bottles available for after school travel, with meals, etc.  Herbal teas and infused water with slices of fruits and herbs are also refreshing options that kids do really like!  You just have to let them try it to know they like it!
4. Keep them Moving - Exercise not only contributes to physical fitness but also has immune-boosting effects. Engage in regular physical activity as a family, whether it's going for walks, bike rides, or playing sports together. Exercise helps increase circulation, exercise and open the lungs, rids excess energy and promotes better sleep, and reduces stress, all factors that contribute to a strong immune system.
5. Create Calm - Starting school can bring about stress and anxiety, affecting immune function. Teach your children natural coping techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, stretching, or yoga.  Children are more likely to start getting into these habits when they see a parent or teacher doing the same.  You can practice these natural, totally free, relaxing practices at home daily with your child.  It's good for everyone!
6. Teach Hygiene - This is no new one of course, but it is so overlooked and incredibly easy to take five minutes to talk to your child about coughing in their arm, proper way to blow their nose (one nostril at a time and wash hands after), covering sneezes, and washing hands all over, top and bottom, and in between fingers with soap!  Remember, hand sanitizer doesn't kill the Norovirus (dreaded stomach flu!) so it is worth teaching the kiddos these basics.  And I must also add, you are also teaching them to keep other children safe, especially those with autoimmune disorders or weakened immune systems.
7. Keep them Outdoors - Being in nature is GROUNDING.  I cannot express it enough because stress is a major cause of so many ailments, including a weakened immune system.  Be sure to take your child out for a walk in the evenings after work or do things outdoors you both enjoy every day the weather permits.  Get curious, open up their curious minds, and explore all the mother nature has to offer.  Do you know how much natural medicine is in nature?!  As you explore, you can write down what you might be interested in learning more about. Be sure to explore this blog page for more great health and wellness tips that helps you and your child thrive and also click here to Sign up for FREE weekly wellness tips!
9. Stay Ahead of Illness - Ask your children how the kids are at school, if anyone left home that day or is out sick, how their teacher is feeling, etc.  You can learn a lot!  So many time my children have come stating a child threw up in class and the first thing I do is pull out organic lemons and probiotics!  This is just a small start of a routine that we would proceed with when hearing about the stomach flu.  If it is a cough, sore throat, or other bug, we may do the same or something completely different depending what we have on hand at that time.  Know how others around your child are feeling as much as possible and proceed from their to help your child thrive!

If you jump at these key immune boosting practices, you will be at a much better start to prevent illness the first two weeks of school.

I do know from experience though, that creating self care routines and sleep schedules isn't all that easy, so if you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out so we can start working together!

There is nothing like learning to boost your child's health and wellness in the comfort of your favorite sweats, in your favorite room, right next to your favorite people!

That's what is like when we work together!  I make learning simple, fun, inspirational, and deliver education that lasts a lifetime! 

Start today so your child can step into those school doors ahead of the health and wellness game!

It's past the fourth of July now, one of your busiest holidays and months of summer.

The weekends have all been filled with graduation parties, boat days, baseball, and now you soaking in sweat during soccer season.

Or, maybe your family is busy fishing, swimming, and camping.

No matter what you have been busy doing...

You are exhausted to say the least.

You wake up towards the end of July and realize that there is only one month left of summer.

School will start soon and the trees that provided you with grounding and shade all summer will start to change colors letting you know more change is coming.

You aren't sure how you will have the energy next month to squeeze any more activities in, but you also know between time and the weather, you summer days are becoming less and less.

So could you call this heavy hearted feeling the summer blues or is it just that you really want to get more quality time in with your kiddos and knowing they are growing again and heading into the next grade at school is making you a tad sad.

Or maybe you can't figure out where on earth you can fit more time in and you are feeling down right exhausted from going, going, and going already?

Wether you are feeling a touch of summer sadness or are just running on empty, here are a few things you can start doing today to gain some pep in your step and uplift your mood -

* Use Your Planner - Yes I now it is summer and anything goes in summer but guess what... part of your exhaustion could really simply just be your mind repeating to do lists over and over that aren't getting done because you ditched the planner.  So to get a few things off of your mind and actually done, grab your weekly planner and get them on the calendar in a specific day and time frame this week. 

* Plan Ahead - While you have your planner out, take a look at the next six weeks on the full calendar view and see where you have events you can say NO to and where you can add it what your heart really desires to do with your kiddos.  If there are things you don't even want to attend, that make your muscles tense just thinking about them, or that you can kindly pass on to make memories with your children, then do it!

* Eat Fruit - I am sure you have been feeding your kiddos well and keeping them hydrated, but what about you busy Mom?The vibrant colors are uplifting alone, not to mention if you take a few minutes to enjoy the energizing aroma before you eat the fruit, you can easily boost your mood!  The nutrients and antioxidants will replenish your energy supply and the fiber will help keep your digestive tract moving.  Both can help increase energy!  Boosting your mood and your energy makes grabbing an orange or grapefruit sound like the right thing to do!

* Organize Something - Sounds silly but I bet you have been so busy you have no idea what is even going on in your closets!  I know you know what I am talking about!  Give yourself a few hours this week to turn on your favorite tunes, diffuse you favorite essential oil, and just simply organize something and get rid of what you no longer need.  It always feels good to simplify.

* Use Aromatherapy Products - It seems easy to forget to use essential oils in summer time because illness isn't lurking around every corner like in the winter months, but do not forget the power essential oils and aromatherapy products have to to help to uplift or balance a mood and create energy within.  Ideas could be to diffuse citrus essential oils, use natural cleaning sprays you love, and use natural skin care products or blends you love morning, day, and night.  Your skin will love the extra moisture anyways and you will love the aroma!

* Just Be In The Moment - Allow yourself time for self care prior to special outings with the kids so can calm your nervous system and clear your mind.  Then allow yourself time to set your mental to do list to the side and just simply enjoy the time you have with your kiddos.  You heart will be fulfilled knowing you were in the moment, made the memories, got to see the smiles, and enjoyed hearing the giggles and laughter.

You got this!  🦋 Jamie

P.S. If you or your kids are known to struggle with back to school, emotional balance, change of schedules, time management, sleep, nerves, and so forth, please do not hesitate to get a Wellness Call Booked so I can offer support through this time for you and your child BEFORE the school year starts so you can both get started on a more balanced path. 💜

​Don't Wait!  School Starts in a few weeks!  Click Here to Book Your Online Wellness Session Now!

Summer time can be a really hard time for parents and children to stay hydrated.

Parents are usually juggling new summer schedules along with work, and children are in the hot sun more often and running around all day.

Symptoms of dehydration can impair normal body functions.  Some common symptoms are dizziness, fatigue, and headache while more serious symptoms that aren't always noticeable right away are decreased elimination (decrease waste from the body), decrease lymphatic movement (decreased ability for the body to balance fluids and detox), and joint and muscle pain.

Whether you are the busy Mom, Dad, Caregiver, and Grandparent, there are things you can do daily to stay hydrated like these -

1.  Start the day with a glass of water with a fresh squeezed organic lemon wedge in it.  This will replenish lost hydration from the night and get your digestive tract and body ready and hydrated to start the day.

2.  Get in the habit of having a glass of water before or with each meal and snack.  Ditch soda's and juices and leave meals to water only to be sure you are getting that extra cup of water in to stay hydrated.

3.  Carry a water bottle with you daily where ever you go so you can drink on the go when you feel thirsty.  Be sure to send water bottles with your kids where ever they are as well or fill them daily so when they are thirsty they can reach for it.  Kids don't want to stop playing to run inside to find a cup to fill, but if their water bottle is outside already filled and near them, they can sneak in a few drinks without missing out on play time.

4.  Make healthy organic fruit juice popsicles or freezie pops.  Click Here to check out this option for organic freezie pops and see if you think your kiddos may like them!  Healthy popsicles are a great way for kids to take a break and cool off during the day, and when they are made with healthier ingredients, without the added food coloring and tons of sugar, you don't have to worry if they request a second or third trip to the freezer.

5.  Make an icy or slushy.  If you have a Ninja type or any type of blender, you can easily create a quick cool and hydrating drink.  Start by adding a handful of ice, then add some coconut water and your favorite fruit combinations.  Blend and enjoy!

6.  Drink coconut water more often or add it to your child's juice, water, smoothies, and slushies.  Coconut water is said to be one of the more hydrating beverages to have due to it's higher concentration of electrolytes.  This is why I added it to the icy above.

7.  Offer fruits and veggies with every meal and snack.  Many fruits and veggies are made up of mostly water so serving them often not only provides much needed nutrients, but also another source of hydration.

8.  Add electrolyte drops or an electrolyte powder packet to your favorite drink or water.  Electrolytes help our body stay more hydrated or help to replenish hydration much more quickly than just having water alone.  Ask your pediatrician or doctor how much is recommended to add daily for you and also your child since the amount will be different.

Which ones will you add to your routine so you and your kids can stay hydrated and feel great all summer long?

My kiddos like to watch the air quality reports just as much as they like to check the weather on my phone, ask Alexa, or ask Google every hour of the day!

Some days are worse than others and we can definitely feel it or see it with the kids ability to clear their lungs or overcome a cough, even if the cough is from allergies.

Clear air is so important for lung health, which is therefore, super important for overall health.

Here are five things you can start doing today to support your lung health -

1.  Get a good quality Hepa air purifier for your home or at least for the bedrooms, where you kiddos are for all of the hours during the night.  Hepa air purifiers cannot remove all impurities from the air, but they can certainly help remove dust particles, mold, fungus and quite a few other things you don't want or need to breathe in.  Click Here to see the brand we currently have in our home.

By ensuring the air quality indoors is more clean and clear, you are offering lungs support and the ability to stay healthier.

2.  Exercise (indoors where the air is cleaner) to get your blood pumping and expand the lungs.  By exercising the lungs, you can help to remove and clear unwanted germs and trapped particles or phlegm that are stuck way down in the lower lungs.  This will help you breathe better and will also boost your lung health and the ability to prevent illness or congestion.

3.  Keep hydrated!  Dehydration causes a boat load of symptoms which can lead to other health problems.  Not only can the first symptoms of dehydration cause dizziness, headache, and muscle cramps, it also decreases the bodies ability to detox.  The more the body can detox and keep a better fluid balance with better circulation and function of the circulatory and lymphatic systems, the better chance you have to protect your body's organs, including the lungs.

Speaking of helping the body detox, add an Epsom Salt bath in your routine up to three times a week for at least fifteen minutes!  Add one and a half cups for teens and adults, older children half to one cup, younger children one quarter of a cup to a half cup, toddlers no more than one quarter cup in a full bath (not sink). 

Just run it past your health care provider first to make sure there isn't any reason your child cannot add weekly epsom salt baths to their routine and see if they agree to the amount you will be using.  There are many more health benefits to epsom salt baths!  They are good for Mom too while also pretty inexpensive.

4.  Ditch fast food, processed foods, and sugars.  I know, I know... it's repetitive!  But all of these foods (alcohol too) can cause spikes in blood sugars, poor lymphatic movement, poor digestion and elimination, and more! 

Why does it matter? Because it will increase inflammation throughout the body, including within and around the lungs, which could possibly make it harder for you lungs to expand or stay clear and healthy.

Be sure to add in plenty or even more fruits and veggies than normal to provide your body with much needed antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to be sure you immunity is elevated as well as your over all health.

5.  Use true and pure medicinal essential oils to help assist to open up the lungs and make it easier to breathe.  You can explore options such as diffusion, topical application of an essential oil blend, roller ball use, and having a nasal inhaler in your pocket or purse to use as needed.  They even make diffusers to plug into your computer and use at work and for use in your car while driving!  Using the right essential oils at the right dilution is a great way to help open the air ways when the lungs feel tight.

Essential oils that are often used for adults are Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus radiata), Peppermint (Mentha piperita), and Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis).  *All of these come with high precautions for babies and children so you must check precautions for everyone in the family.  *If you are a parent, grandparent, nursing mother, or caregiver holding a baby or child, please know that if the essential oils you are using topically are on your skin and you are holding babies and littles, they will be more prone to an adverse reaction since these essential oils are not recommended for babies and children.  Often times they can even cause breathing difficulty for them.

If you do have children under the age of 10, sticking to essential oils such as Lemon (Citrus limon), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), and Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) are better options to explore.  Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) is also wonderful to support the lungs and assist to ease a cough, but it has a very strong aroma that isn't always preferred by children.  Again, you know you kiddos best and their health profile so do check precautions of all aromatherapy prodcuts prior to use.

Hydrosols are a better option to use if you have babies or young children as they are not as concentrated as essential oils.  Hydrosols can be sprayed in any room of your home or just in one specific room.  You will still have to check precautions with hydrosol's as well prior to use.

If you have questions or are ready to learn more, then it's time to book a 1 to 1 zoom call to learn just how easy all of this can be! 

Just think how awesome it would be to be able to use the knowledge for life to support your family's health!

There is no price you can put on learning to better your health and wellness.  Click Here to Book Now!
​

Teaching kids to grow their own food is essential.  I wish it were taught yearly in schools because we cannot always rely on the weather and that hard working farmer's crops can get to us. 

I love teaching my kiddos how much of an impact farmers have on everyone world wide.  I also love to teach them how easy it can be to grow their own food.

I didn't grow up with gardeners so I relied on watching others, learning from others, and experimenting every year.  So really, what I am trying to say is, no experience is needed to get started!  Just start, learn, and grow!

Whether you have indoor space or outdoor, there is always room for plants and herbs.  Of course there is more room outdoors, but take these simple steps into consideration to get started on planning the perfect plants to have indoors and or outdoors to get a small or large garden started with your kids.

Here are some key points to consider before getting started -

1.  Are you planning for indoor or outdoor space?  How much space do you have and will it be enough for the plants that you would like to start growing?  For example, if you are limited on space it may not be feasible to start a hanging basket of strawberries and a potted tomato plant, but it may work great to have small pots of herbs to use for cooking and micro greens for salads and sandwiches.  On the flip side, if you have a lot of space, maybe squash and zucchini will make for a great start.

2.  What exactly would you like to grow?  To figure this out, make a list of your favorite fruits, veggies, or herbs.  Which ones could you grow for the space that you have?  We love strawberries, so one of our first garden plants were dug up strawberry plants from a good friend.  They reseed and grow year after year without needing to purchase more and kids LOVE them!

3.  Check what zone you are in.  This is dependent on where you live and the weather.  Each seed packet or plant has a preferred zone listed on the tag.  If you are buying perennials, you will want to be sure they are for your zone so they come back the next year and do not die off when the weather cools down.

4.  Decide if you want all annuals or if you would like to start a perrennial garden that continues to return each spring so you do not have to keep purchasing more plants or plant more seeds every year. 

Some examples of plants that return for our zone 4/5 here is Wisconsin that we have in our garden are chamomile, lavender, strawberries, lemon balm, blueberries, marshmallow root, lovage, and violets.

3.  Now that you have an idea of what space you have and what you might want to plant, assess the lighting.  Which plants need full sun and which are okay in a more shady area.

4.  Next, find out if what neighbors your friends prefer.  You can google "companion plants for ________".  Sometimes certain fruits and veggies grown together can change the taste of the fruit or veggie, halt their growth, or they are simply prone to the same pesty bugs so keeping them planted away from each other will benefit the outcome.

5.  Next, dig in!  Teach the kids about the plant before letting them plant it in the soil.  Have them label the plant and be sure to show them a picture of the fruit it will bear.  Kids really do love taking care of their own plants or gardens and will eat more fruits and veggies when they actually get to grow them and pick them.

6.  Make it fun!  Make it a BIG deal when you are out there with your kids and they do a great job weeding or if you find a fruit starting!  Get them excited when a plant flowers so they know they are getting closer to it bearing a fruit or veggie.

Cheers to teaching your kiddos some much needed knowledge, giving them experiences, and offering them homegrown healthy foods.

If you want to take your garden a step further and learn to make herbal teas and infuse oils or see what else you can do with the fruits, veggies, and herbs in your garden... Book a Call Today!

We love to harvest and dry herbs to use over winter for herbal and medicinal teas, infused bone broths, infused nourishing skin oils, and healing salves.  You could learn how to the same so you have the confidence of knowing you have natural medicine or remedies on hand and know exactly what and how to use them!  No store runs required when you plan ahead!

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It was about two months ago when a friend and I were talking and she nervously added in "And do you know summer is already coming!?!  I have no idea what I am going to do with my kids and how I am going to get anything done!"

It made me very aware that summer was approaching quickly and I too, needed to start planning ahead.

In the past my summer's were quite hectic!  I had no schedule and just went with the flow day by day.  I feel like I ran on "toddler time"!  I had three littles home so our overall schedule had mornings and afternoons open, but nap times were definitely to be spent at home so the littles could stay on a schedule.

This worked okay, but my to do list just kept growing and growing.  I became anxious getting nothing done, even though I was enjoying every moment of getting to stay home with the kiddos.

Everything on my list must have taken an extra three hours to complete with the kids home too!  I know I am not the only one who went or is going through this!

Fast forward to creating a consistent self care routine for myself and my kids, summer time home with the kids doesn't worry me a bit like before.

I know for the most part exactly how every week of summer will flow.  I already know our monthly, weekly, and daily schedules too which is an amazing feeling!

Here is what you can do to stop the anxiety, rat racing around, emotional rollercoaster turns of summer chaos so you can stay focused, still get your stuff done, have time for yourself and your kids, and actually enjoy your moments while being completely present in them! 

1.  Grab your calendar or print the summer months of calendars from google (just type in "free printable calendar").  Go through each month of June, July, August, and September (if your kids start school again this late) and write down all the days you already know you have work or plans.

Once you do this take a moment to view the BIG picture of what summer looks like.

Any free days you have, leave them as just that, "free days" to choose what you want to do when it comes up.  Or write in parenthesis what you could possibly do (like a summer bucket list plan if the weather if nice).  This ensures you get free days and don't miss out on your summer activities you most likely won't make time for before summer is over if it isn't on the calendar.

2.  Create or print a weekly calendar separate from your summer calendar.  This can be purchased as an all in one calendar book too with weeks, months, and days in it, or can be printed just like the monthly calendar.  On one piece of paper you should have all the days of the week open to write notes on.  If you have times of day on the side better yet, otherwise please add hourly times you are awake to the side.

Then fill in a rough draft of what you do weekly.  Block out time you work, have sports, music lessons, sleep, nap time, exercise time, meditate, yoga, walk, etc.  Self Care time gets blocked, even if you are only wanting to put a facial mask on and make aromatherapy roller ball blends!

The goal here is to try to get a good feel at what your normal week looks like in summer time.  This will help you adjust your daily and weekly schedules on the holiday weekends or days when you travel or have plans.

Take a good view at your week and see if there are any time adjustments you can make anywhere that may make things run more smoothly.  For example, if you work a half day on Wednesday's, would it make more sense to run to the gym to workout and to the grocery store while the kids are in day care yet or already have it planned in your schedule that you will be gone like the other work days?

Would it make more sense to get up an hour early to make the kids meals and snacks for the day while you are gone or to prepare for your fun day with the kids so you aren't so rushed.

Would it make sense to skip a few things in your week to free up some time to spend with your kids or on getting more done that needs to get done versus something you may have on the calendar that you really don't even want to do.

3.  Now that you know what the big picture of summer activities look like and what your weekly routine roughly looks like, go ahead and print or use a daily calendar now with hours.  Here is where you adjust your days now to work around your weeks (like holiday and travel weeks).  You will be able to see where you can add extra hours of work in or plan ahead for self care time, especially for those super busy weekends ahead.

Doing this part right here was a HUGE everything saver for me!  My days ran more smoothly.  I wasn't walking from room to room trying to figure out what I was supposed to be doing.  My TODO list was still getting done.  I knew exactly what I had to do and I knew exactly what they could be doing while I did my things.

Even if you are a stay at home MOM!  Do this!  Fill in the hours, I swear by it!

PRO TIP - Where ever possible, add an extra thirty minutes before and or after a task or event to give yourself extra time.  Kids always need something, so planning ahead ensures you have time for them and time to still be on time for the next task.  If you have kids five and younger, I would encourage you to try to add a few extra thirty minute free slots (six per day if possible) OR a full hour a few times per day as younger kiddos sometimes need more of Mom's time unexpectedly for things like potty training, sniffles, refusing to nap, tummy aches, or even just time to reason with your toddler. :)

➡️ If you want to take your self care routine to the next level, check out this blog for self care tips you can start today!

So there you have it!  Prepare for summer with the kids home by having three schedules.

1.  A Monthly Schedule.

2.  A Weekly Schedule.

3.  A Daily Schedule.

Enjoy staying on task without over stressing, rushing to avoid being late, outbursts from kiddos not liking chaos, and the ability to consistently get your self care time in, have patience, emotional balance, and stay on track while balancing work life and Mom life.

If you need help creating this schedule and need support in creating a self care routine personal to you and your kids, than let's spend an hour online together and get it done!

One hour can save you hundreds of wasted hour this summer!

Right now is the BEST time to learn natural ways to stay consistent and products that can support emotional balance through the busy summer months.

Not to mention, if you do this NOW for yourself and your kiddos, think of how much EASIER adjusting to back to school will be!

Click Here to Get Started!

Children worry just like adults do, the difference is they don't realize their little mind is worried and therefore do not know they need support to calm their mind and body.

So why do children worry so much?  They are kids right?  Don't they have it easier than adults since they have less responsibility?

Not so much.  Kids can worry for all sorts of reasons including being worried about when Mom or Dad will pick them up or if they are okay, if their school work will be done on time, if the kids will make fun of them at school, if they will do good on their test, if the bully will leave them alone, if their animals are okay while they are gone, if they will win their sports game or race, if the monster in the closet will come out at night, etc.

There can also be some very LARGE legit worries they have because of what they have been exposed to or gone through.  This type of worry can be triggered at any time and sometimes especially before big social events or bed time.

Then there is the domino effect.  Maybe you have already noticed this.  When your child is worried about one thing, they may become nervous or start to get anxious because they are now worried about five more things.

So what can we do help?

1. Talk it through - Find out what they are worried about or what the cause is, then go from there to help them by talking it through.  For example, "What can we do differently so you don't have to worry about this next time?"  "What will help you right now to feel less worried and what will help you next time when you are worried about this same thing?"  "What could you do if ____________ really did happen so you have a plan?"

Sometimes when kids can see the cause of the worry, know that they are safe and okay even though they feel worried, and have a plan of what they could do it the thing they are worried about did happen.

2. Remind - Remind your kiddo they are safe, let them know their surroundings, where they could go if they needed anything, and who they could go to if they needed help.

3.  Teach - Teach them how their body feels when they are worried (sweating, fast heart beat, can't focus clearly, etc) and let them know this is from the worry.  Therefore, this is why it is important to role with step four which is learning calming tools.

4.  Show - Be their greatest example.  If you tend to get worried to, be sure to show them what you are doing to calm your mind and body during that time.  You can also show them what you do to keep worry at bay when you know you have something coming up that makes you worried, like a work meeting, speech, race, etc.  These coping tools can be breathing exercises or short breaks to stop and deep breathe, yoga, meditation, walking, journaling, etc.  You may use an aromatherapy nasal inhaler when you deep breathe to help assist relaxation more quickly or on a deeper level.  You may make a cup of your favorite herbal tea or take a lavender salt bath.  You can also talk it through out loud so they can hear how you talk things through.

5.  Stay in Routine - Anytime there is a situation of stress or worry, it always best to stay, even more on routine with your daily and sleep schedules, than ever.  Be sure the kids are getting enough sleep and stick with a sleep schedule.  Likewise, be sure they are getting outside to connect with nature, stay grounded, and burn off excess energy.

Don't forget the power of hugs! xoxo Jamie

P.S. If you want to create a solid routine or plan to help your child ease worry, click here to Book a Call today and let's spend an hour together (via zoom video) to create a step by step plan to help ease your child's worry and get them on a more balanced path asap!

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It can be just as hard on Mom as it is for the child who doesn't feel well, especially if the child has recurring illnesses.

In the modern chaotic lifestyle we are lead to follow, it can be easy to forget simple daily self care time for Mom and child.

This is one HUGE factor in why a child can get sick often.

As a Mom, I know how easy it is to get super busy and not have time to pay attention to every little detail of health and wellness.  So below are just some great reminders!  Do the best you can to keep an eye out and make time for these things or even make a few simple changes, and you may just see your child getting sick less often.

Here are a few reminders or possible reasons your child may get sick often -

1.  Your schedule is too busy for Self Care Time (as mentioned... but it is ONE to REMEMBER).  Be sure you are taking time to allow your child to get out in nature, relax their mind, explore, stretch, take extra steps to nourish their skin, be sure they are getting in enough exercise and active play to exercise their lungs, eating healthy and well, etc.

2.  Your child isn't properly hydrated, therefore their body is not able to detox as it should.  This can lead to things like headaches, constipation, and fatigue.  It helps to have a water bottle on hand daily and a diet full of fresh fruits and veggies.

3.  Your child isn't getting enough sleep on a regular schedule.  Their body needs this time every evening to build immunity, grow, relax, reset, and recharge.  There are a lot of biological factors that happen while we sleep.  It's is super simple to create a solid sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible.  In fact, when your child is on a sleep schedule, they are more likely to want to go to bed on time because they actually LIKE feeling well and LIKE having a schedule.

4.  Your child isn't getting proper nutrition.  Look at your child's daily meals and snacks.  Are they getting healthy protein sources, healthy fats, colorful fruits and veggies, and nut and seeds?  Every time your child is eating overly processed foods like fast foods or all the junk in the middle aisles at the grocery store (you know, those things that don't even mold after a week!), your child is missing out on valuable nutrients that build their immune system like vitamins, nutrients, minerals, omega's, and more.  Meal and snack planning ahead of time can help prevent your child from snacking on the less healthy items throughout the week.

5.  An abundance of sugar and artificial colors and dyes could absolutely be effecting your child's immune system.  Does sugar and artificial dye actually make you sick?  Well, they are both known to cause stomach upset meaning that there will most likely be inflammation in the gut (this is where most of our immunity comes from) which can prevent the stomach from absorbing nutrients and emptying waste properly.  Try to offer a healthier option first so your child is full before indulging in a sweet and try to find natural food coloring option like fruit and vegetable powders.

6.  Your child isn't dressed appropriately dressed for the weather.  Laundry isn't fun, but if kids are out in the cold with no coat, cool air blowing on their chest (and over their lungs), and they are wet on top of it... there is a great chance their immune system is going to have to work harder to keep up.  This means they may be more prone to getting sick.

7.  Your child is sharing drinks and food with you or others.  It is hard when your child always wants to share, but if you have a virus without apparent symptoms... yet... you are sharing the illness with your child and vice versa.  Daycare germs are the worst too!  This is a great time to stop sharing and let both of your immune systems keep up!  It is okay to ask grandparents and friends not to share and teach your kiddos about germs too.  If they do not like feeling ill, they will understand and be more cautious of sharing.  You can also do them a huge favor and teach them how to properly drink out of a bubbler or better yet, send them every day with a water bottle of their own so all the kiddos in the class aren't all swapping germs while trying to hydrate.

8.  Your child isn't washing their hands.  Get them in the habit of this and have them use soap.  There are illnesses out there that hand sanitizer does not kill, like the dreaded Norovirus.  No one wants the stomach flu!  Have you kiddos wash their hands as soon as they get home from sports, play dates, school, and don't be afraid to ask their friends to do the same if they are with you.

9.  Your child bites their nails.  Now don't laugh but every time I see my son bite his nails I tell him to think about the last kid he saw that was picking his nose and imagine he is just eating those same boogers with him!  So gross!  Kids bite their nails because they are bored, worried, unsure of their surroundings or situation, or nervous.  Try to find the root cause and promote the nail biting to stop by offering a fun play day if they kick the habit.

10.  Your child has allergy or sinus symptoms.  When our sinuses are draining, full, and inflamed, we are more prone to illness.  This can happen because the inflammation lowers the bodies ability to fight off germs as well or because the overly draining or full sinuses can lead to additional symptoms or an additional type of illness like an ear infection, sore throat, or chest congestion.  All of which can continue to lead to more symptoms or another illness.  You can do natural things, use natural products, and take your child to have natural therapies to help alleviate sinus symptoms before worse symptoms take over.  

Natural Allergy and Sinus Symptom Relief is a great topic to learn!  Click here to learn how to work with me!

There are possible reasons your child could be getting sick more often, but I think you have a great start to reviewing what changes you could possibly make to help them boost their immunity!  

If you really want to tackle these and learn a personalized natural approach to helping your child prevent getting sick, Click Here to Book A Call Today!  Your child will feel better more often and THANK YOU! :)

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