Meal kits are a growing trend in the west, but it is North America that has really taken to the idea. Meal kits are a bit like if you combined grocery shopping with a restaurant menu – you scroll recipes, select the ones you like the look of, and voilà, your chosen meals have arrived on your doorstep.

They’re not cooked already, though this is a service you can also find. Instead, the ingredients are measured for you ready to go, and in some cases, fully prepared. You can find meal kit companies all around the globe, and their trend looks set to continue and challenge major supermarkets on every continent. 

This article will cover the top companies in North America, such Hello Fresh, Chefs Plate and Blue Apron. Despite Blue Apron choosing not to expand to Canada, we will explore how and why these companies are thriving in NA, and what are pros and cons of each.

• Population sparsity

Both Canada and the USA share something in common that not many other countries do – land is plentiful. With only modest population figures yet huge land, their population is sparsely covering a large land mass. This makes grocery shopping a very different experience compared to somewhere like Europe.

In Europe, it is common to go to grocery shops a couple of times a week. Often a short walk around the corner, or at most a 10-minute drive, food is accessible. However, in North America it’s not uncommon to only shop once every ten days or so for food. Clearly, the latter culture is more suited to online meal kit deliveries.

• Awareness of healthy eating

North Americans are, in general, quite health conscious. Gyms have become a cool place to hang out and healthy plates of food have become a staple of the Instagram feed – a bit like how fitness has become fashionable in the past half decade. YouTube and podcasts have also played a huge factor in providing information to North Americans regarding health and lifestyle, something they have an appetite for.

Meal kits go hand-in-hand with this. Those wanting to learn how to cook can do so by ordering the ingredients without the extra hassle, and are provided an instruction list.

• Higher disposable income

Both Canadians and Americans have one of the highest disposable incomes in the world. The spare money is essentially an opportunity to start paying for more time. Given that we are all constricted by time, those with enough money can buy some of it back.

On top of this, meal kits offer fresh, organic ingredients. This high-quality produce isn’t always easy to find in supermarkets, so this becomes the higher quality, more costly alternative. It’s very unlikely that the poorest in America are paying for meal kits for much the same reason why meal kits aren’t a thing in developing countries.

• Long work hours

The US tends to have longer work hours and fewer days off than many European countries. Their culture of high work ethic means that there are millions of Americans who have little free time, and decide that opting for convenience is important to freeing up what little time they have left. 

Time and convenience are perhaps the biggest reasons for meal kit companies’ demand. Though, with the abrupt lockdown restriction last April, it was likely the obstacles that faced Americans when shopping, that led to online alternatives.

Do meal kits exist outside of NA?

Meal kits do in fact exist outside of NA. In particular, they are rising in popularity in Europe for much of the same reasons as above. There is a rising culture of being health conscious (partly from American Instagram influencers), as well as a middle class who are looking for convenient, healthy cooking in a time of a pandemic. 

Europe has many of the same companies that NA has, though there are many of their own too. Gousto, Square Meal, and Feast Box in particular are popular in the UK. Hello Fresh, which is perhaps the largest meal kit company in the US, Canada, and the world, is a German company.

Which are the biggest meal kit companies in North America?

The US and Canada share many of the same meal kit companies. The biggest is arguably Hello Fresh, as mentioned earlier, which is valued at over $10bn. With over 30% market share, Hello Fresh is the go-to for many people wanting reasonably priced, good quality recipes and a reliable service.

Home Chef is perhaps the next biggest North American meal kit company. This is a 2013 company founded in Chicago, and is owned by Kroger. Home Chef is rated the best company by many reviewers, with its great recipes, fresh ingredients and easy service.

Blue Apron is also a big hitter, but they do not operate in Canada. In fact, they were struggling for many years until the pandemic struck, where they then saw their best growth in a long time.

Freshly, EveryPlate, Sun Basket, Green Chef and Purple Carrot are some of the other noteworthy meal kit companies, who each have their own pros and cons. 

For example, Freshly offers ready-to-eat meals, so there’s no actual cooking required. This takes meal kit convenience to a whole new level, but of course at the cost of freshness. There’s no way that the meal can taste as fresh when reheated, though you could argue the ingredients are of the same organic quality.

As we can see, there is no single best company. It’s worth trying a few different ones before settling, as you can decide which suits you best. On top of this, you can make use of the promotional offers for new sign ups, meaning each company can be rinsed of their discounts before you consider paying full price.

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It’s totally normal to want to add a fresh look to your home every now and then, although making any major improvements can, of course, cost a fair bit of money. We’ve looked at some ways to improve your home before, but budget constraints weren’t the focus of that piece. If we can improve some spaces with a tiny investment, then why not? 

It’s certainly becoming a lot more common these days, particularly with mum’s who want to get their kids involved in some fun and creative design. Sprucing up – and ultimately adding value to – a home is a fun and rewarding exercise too, with numerous hacks and clever little additions you can make to help elevate a room. It’s certainly more productive than lounging around on the sofa all day watching television or exploring more online roulette games in Canada, and those leisurely activities will be far more enjoyable when you’re living it up in your swanky new space that cost next to nothing to improve. There are so many things you can do to give your home a facelift, too. 

So, with that in mind, here’s a look at some cheap and cheerful ways to spruce up your home. 

Use chalkboard paint on the inside of cupboard doors

We mentioned getting the kids involved, and this is one idea that they’ll certainly want to have a go at. Simply spraying some chalkboard paint on the inside of a cupboard can give your kitchen a stylish look, although if you’re wanting to add some fun into your dining space and get the kids involved then giving them some chalk to write on their very own cupboard could be worth trying. Alternatively, you could write a list of what’s inside the cupboard ahead of cooking up a big family feast or having people round to stay who might not know where anything is. 

Make some cushions 

Not only is it relatively simple to do and incredibly cheap to buy the required materials also, but making cushions will give you the opportunity to apply a design you really like to a room. You can select the fabric you like and the exact type of pillow you want, all while giving a room a completely fresh look in the process too. Cushions can go a long way, after all.

Hide your router 

Internet routers aren’t the most attractive of things, which is why clever hacks like using a hollowed-out book to fit it into are worth considering. From there, you could place ornaments on top of the book, perhaps. A simple but effective touch, hiding your Wi-Fi router will allow you to declutter your space and conceal what can be an annoyance. 

Disguise what you can’t replace 

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Fixing a damaged floor or a stained carpet isn’t always kind on the wallet, which is why disguising an unpleasant sight is a clever alternative, and it works a treat too. Try laying a rug over a stained carpet or a beautiful throw over a dusty old sofa. It’s simple and can look excellent.

Turn old jewellery into fridge magnets 

Another one to potentially get the kids involved with, turning old jewellery into fridge magnets will enable you to add some extra style to your kitchen. Whether it’s a broken brooch or some rusty old jewellery, sticking them to the back of a magnet will add a fresh look to your fridge and ultimately give your kitchen a quirky new look too. 

Other ideas are spray paint photo frames, use old wallpaper on bookcases, and get creative with wall stencils. 

Image Credit: Pexels

You might end up having the urge to replace the appliances in your kitchen, your washer and dryer, the furniture set in your living room, but when is it time to replace your bed? A mattress, and a new bed frame set, is a big investment we often avoid until our sleep becomes nonexistent.

Maybe you’ve moved to the guest room or the couch to get some sleep because your bed is causing more harm than good. Although it may feel like it, a mattress is not meant to last you a lifetime. Especially when you can shop online and find the perfect match within minutes. Below are several indicators that it is seriously time to consider replacing your mattress!

It’s Going on a Decade Since You Had a New Bed

If your previous mattress came with a 10, 15 or 20-year warranty, this is the last thing you want to follow in terms of your mattress lifespan. Under ideal circumstances, your mattress should be replaced within 6 to 10 years. However, there are exceptions to this rule such as latex mattresses. For most mattress brands, they will begin to lose their shape, effectiveness and they’ll actually start to cause problems within 7 years.

Your Body Isn’t Happy When You Wake Up

Do you wake up more tired or achy than when you went to bed? The ideal sleep situation where you can get enough sleep on the right mattress, you should wake up well-rested and refreshed. However, bad mattresses often keep us up during the night, and make our bodies work harder to find the most comfortable spot to fall and stay asleep.

Your Mattress Appears Lumpy or Feels Uncomfortable

Have you seen springs popping out of your mattress? Compressed fibers? Is your mattress slumping to one side or caving in the middle? Sleeping on a mishappen mattress can often cause back, or neck pain along with spine misalignment. This is the opposite of support – instead your weight is unevenly distributed across your entire back.

If your mattress looks like it’s falling apart, subjected to the wear and tear of a long life, then it’s high time you consider a new mattress. There tend to be various options available in the market from traditional cotton and linen bedding to modern and improved bamboo bedding. You can choose one according to your specific needs.

Indentations in Your Memory Foam

While memory foam is supposed to mold to your body, it isn’t a good sign if your mattress starts to keep your shape. Memory foam will naturally soften over time. If you find yourself sinking too much into your memory foam mattress, where it’s difficult to lift yourself up, then it could be time to move on from your mattress. A good rule of thumb is to take notice of how deeply you’re sinking into the memory foam – more than 2 inches isn’t good – and whether there’s a lasting indentation long after you’ve gotten out of bed.

Your Frame is Falling Apart

The problem with your bed troubles might not even be your mattress – it could be your bed frame. If your mattress is in good condition, or if it’s a young mattress, check your box spring. The box spring could be misshapen, tilted, or broken, which could lead to sleeping troubles. A weathered frame could lead to lopsidedness or sagging, leading to terrible sleep.

Having a baby in a house means following three things are sure to happen:

• Messy House
• Disturbed Sleep Schedule
• And last but definitely not least…the battle to make the babies sit straight during mealtimes.

When babies reach the age of 12-14 months, they want to explore their environment. For this purpose, these tiny creatures cannot sit in one place, even during mealtime. In fact, during the mealtimes, the babies are focused on everything and everyone around them becomes except for their meals.

Holding the feeding items, making the baby sit straight, and feeding them, all these tasks together can make the mealtime quite tiresome for the mothers. Not to mention, that it can take up a lot of time to make the baby eat his meal properly.

Mothers are always running around the clock to manage their chores and to be available for their babies. A lot of mothers search the internet to look up tips and tricks to make their lives easier without compromising on their babies.

If you are also one of those mothers, who wants to make her life easier and mealtime with babies a little less messy, then all you need is that one piece of furniture that will transform your mealtimes with the baby. 

A highchair is the answer to make the mealtimes with a baby easier.

Buying a highchair is not necessary. If the parents can manage their babies while feeding them then there is no need for a highchair. But, if your baby is a little wigglier and doesn’t focus on his meals, then you should invest in a good high chair.

A high chair may seem like a simple piece of furniture used during mealtimes, but you’ll be surprised to know how many benefits it has in store for both the baby and the mother.

Advantages of a High Chair

• Time-Saving 

Perhaps the greatest benefit of the high chair which overshadows the rest of the benefits is that it saves a lot of time. Feeding the baby while he is seated in a high chair makes the mealtime finish much faster and without hassle.

• Self-Dependence

If you want your baby to become an independent eater, then you must inculcate this habit at a tender age. A high chair comes with a tray which is used to keep the feeding items of the baby. This feature of the high chair allows the baby to feed himself and focus on the meal, without having to hold anything.

• Family Time

A person enjoys mealtime more when he eats with his family. A high chair allows the baby to be included in the family mealtime. Including the baby in family mealtime can strengthen the bond between the baby and his family members.

• Safety and Security 

Making the babies sit in a regular chair or on a lap can sometimes be risky as they might slip away and hurt themselves. With a high chair, parents can be relieved that the baby will be safe and secure during mealtime no matter how much he twists and turns.

• Other Activities

The primary purpose of a high chair is to make mealtimes more convenient for the babies and their mothers. But, a high chair can also be used for other activities. For instance, it can be used for reading time or for playing with flashcards. 

If you don’t have anyone to watch over your baby while you work in the kitchen or a room, etc. then you can place the baby inside the high chair and keep him closer to you.

The benefits of high chairs are not only limited to the above-listed ones. There are many more advantages that you and your baby can reap by using a high chair. 

But wait…there is just one condition attached to getting these benefits. 

The condition to benefit from a high chair is to make your baby sit on it. Making the babies sit on the high chair may seem easy but, as they grow up it becomes difficult to make them sit for longer durations.

Wondering how to overcome this problem? Well, don’t worry we have a solution for you. Below we have mentioned seven easy tricks to make your babies sit longer in the high chair for peaceful and less messy mealtimes.

All you have to do is keep reading…!

Tricks To Keep Your Child Seated Longer in Their High Chair

• Invest in the Right Chair

   

The first trick to make your child sit longer in a high chair is to get the right high chair for them. If the high chair is comfortable and safe, the child will enjoy sitting in it. If the high chair is uncomfortable and unsafe then the baby will give you a tough time while sitting in it.

Before you buy a high chair make sure that you take the following considerations into account.

• Safety Features

When it comes to buying things for babies, safety is the priority of all the parents. Babies do not have complete control over their bodies and sometimes they find it hard to balance themselves. For this purpose, make sure that the high chair has the feature to keep the baby secured.

There are numerous chairs available in the market. However, remember that not every chair is suitable for your baby. Each baby has different needs. What suits one baby doesn’t necessarily mean that it will suit your baby too.

Make sure that the chair you purchase is sturdy and won’t topple if the child throws a tantrum. Also, check the safety strap and the harness points. Furthermore, do check that the chair is properly polished and there are no sharp edges or hinges which might hurt your little one.

• Comfortable Seat

How long can you sit on an uncomfortable chair? 5-10 minutes right? Do not expect your baby to sit longer in the chair if it’s not comfortable. If the seat is soft and cozy, the little ones will enjoy it and let their parents have the mealtime in peace.

Buy a high chair that is well padded and comfortable for your munchkin.

• Versatility

Gone are those days when the only type of high chair was available in the market for the babies. Nowadays, there are many high chairs which grow with your baby. The chair can be modified and used according to the needs of your child.

Invest in a chair that can be changed from a baby high chair to a toddler high chair and then into a booster. Be smart about your purchases and save your money. Get your baby the items which he can use longer.

• Footrest

Many parents overlook this aspect when they purchase a high chair. A footrest allows your baby to rest their legs on it instead of keeping them dangling.

A high chair footrest allows the baby to rest their feet while he is seated on the chair. It improves the postures of the baby and avoids the risk of varicose veins. 

Don’t worry if the high chair you purchase doesn’t have a footrest. You can easily get your hands on a Pawsi high chair footrest. It is cheap, convenient, and easy to attach to the baby chair.

Learn more about the benefits of Pawsi high chair footrest.

• Portable

Get a high chair that is easy to move around. Heavy and bulky chairs are a problem to move. The best option is to buy a high chair which has wheels attached to it. 

High chairs with wheels make it easier to move the high chair around the house or to take them outside.

• Lower Your Expectations

   

We understand that the parents want their babies to have peaceful mealtime with less fidgeting and smearing. But, do not expect the babies, especially the toddlers to sit properly for 10-15 minutes straight.  

When you start making them sit in the high chair they are sure to cry and fidget at first. Do not force them to sit for longer durations. Try making them sit for a few minutes and then eventually increase their time.

If you make them sit for more than 5 minutes, in the beginning, there is a high probability that the babies will throw a big tantrum whenever they are made to sit in the high chair.

• Include The Baby In Family Mealtimes

   

Another trick to make babies sit in the high chair is to include them during family mealtimes. Let’s accept it, people enjoy eating with their family rather than eating alone. Babies like it too when they are made to eat with the rest of the family.

Bring the high chair near the table or the kitchen counter. When the baby sits with everyone he enjoys having family time. Family mealtime not only makes the baby sit longer in the high chair but also strengthens his bond with his family.

A baby who has strong bonding and attachment with his family members is more likely to develop confident social behavior. 

• Let Them Explore

   

Babies are inquisitive by nature. They love to explore and feel everything around them. When you make the baby sit in a high chair, try to keep his chair near to the table or a kitchen counter. It allows him to view multiple objects and he tries to grab them to feel their texture.

Allow them to pick up the objects and feel them on their tiny hands. Babies will keep themselves occupied while exploring the things around them and they will sit longer in their high chairs. 

However, make sure not to keep sharp objects such as knives, forks, chopsticks, and lighters, etc. within their reach.

• Limit Distractions

   

During mealtimes, everything becomes magically interesting for the babies. From the crumbs on their chair to the toy which they haven’t touched in weeks, everything will interest them. To make sure that your baby focuses on his meal and sits properly in a high chair, try to limit the distractions around him.

Switch off the TV, don’t use tablets or smart-phones around them. Furthermore, make sure you use the high chair in a place where the baby would be least distracted. It will help him to focus on his meal and not on his surroundings.

• Encourage Self Eating

   

Mealtimes means a mess time for the baby. They love to feed their surroundings too. To avoid the mess and maintain cleanliness, many mothers do not favor the idea of letting the babies eat on their own. Suction base tableware has become essential for parents when it comes to toddler mealtimes. Some toddler weaning sets provide a stable base for little ones learning to feed themselves. Thanks to the silicone suction base underneath the bowls and plates, your baby won’t be able to lift the plate from a textured or smooth surface and throw it on the floor, therefore a less messy mealtime for the family.

Encouraging self-eating in the babies not only keeps them focused but also makes them learn how to hold the feeding items. Holding and gripping things enhance their fine motor skills.

• Never Leave the Baby Unattended

   

Never, we repeat, never leave your baby unattended while he is seated on a high chair. Whenever you make him sit in the high chair, make sure there is always someone to watch over them.

If nobody is around the baby while he is seated on the high chair, he will surely think of ways to escape the high chair. The baby may topple the chair and injure himself seriously. 

Having someone around reduces the chances of the baby to escape the high chair. He remains seated as long as someone is watching him.

In A Nutshell

High chairs are without a speck of a doubt a very useful piece of furniture for both the baby and his parents. It makes the mealtime easier, improves the posture of the baby, encourages self-feeding, and allows the baby to become disciplined during mealtimes.

Making the child comfortable and used to a high chair is not easy. Relax! There is no need to panic if your child is not ready to sit in a high chair or cries when he is made to sit.

Babies need time to get familiar with things. Do not expect them to get comfortable the moment they sit. Do not force them to sit for prolonged durations. Start by making them sit for 2-3 minutes and then gradually increase the time as needed.

When was the last time you felt most relaxed? Just like any other person, your home should be the place that comforts you. But what if it is not? Your home should not be just a location where you live. Instead, it should be a place of retreat where you can feel comfortable. Your home should be the first place you turn to when you want to escape from the chaotic world. But what if it is the leading case of stress which negatively affects your health?

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You should work on improving the mood and energy of your home to turn it into a healthier living space. Once you turn your home into a sanctuary, you can then focus more on healing your body, calming your mind, and soothing your soul.

Your home does not need to have the latest set of furniture or equipment. Instead, it should be a sanctuary you can take refuge in when you are looking for some calmness and positivity.

When your home environment is unclean, messy, and unkempt, you can develop a range of physical and health issues such as asthma, stress, and depression. For example, if you have an air conditioner that is not working to its full capacity, you might develop breathing problems. However, if you take help of air handler services in Boise (or wherever you live), you might be able to reduce that problem to an extent!

But what should you do to transform your home into a wellness sanctuary? Here are some key tips you can use.

Natural Light

Avoid staying in dark areas of the house. Dark spaces can negatively affect your mood. It can also affect your ability to make healthy decisions. Instead, get out of the darkness and start embracing the natural light from the sun.

Pull back the curtains every time you wake up to allow light to trickle into your house. You can amplify the amount of natural light in a dark room by strategically placing mirrors that can spread out light and brighten the dark spaces of your room.

You can also use light and warm colors in your house to give the illusion of a brightly lit house. Angle your furniture strategically toward the direction of the light to allow light to reflect from the surfaces and brightening the room. However, it can only happen when the furniture has a light color.

Clean Up the Air

The air inside your home is 2 to 5 times more toxic than the one you breathe outdoors. There are potential causes of air pollution in almost every room in your house. However, there are easy and affordable ways to eliminate the problem.

Some potential causes of indoor air pollution include combustion gases from the kitchen stovetop and allergens such as house dust mites, mold, and pet dander. Old or inadequate air conditioning systems can also degrade the air quality in your home. In the event that your AC is old enough, then you might want to consider an air conditioning replacement since breathing in foul air may result in chest tightness, shortness of breath, sore throat, coughing, or even asthma attacks.

It is also worth considering your roof condition. Leaky or damaged roofs are more likely to increase the humidity levels, leading to the formation and spread of mold spores. Ideally, the best time to replace your roof is in autumn, where the weather is at its most predictable without being too cold. Summer is often too hot, and spring can have unexpected showers! So, it can be a good idea to check your roof for repair needs early, so you can plan replacement work at the best time of the year. 

In severe situations, breathing poor air quality can lead to frequent headaches, bronchitis, and chronic asthma. There are several steps you can take to improve your indoor air quality. You can improve the ventilation of your house by opening the windows to allow fresh air inside and let out the polluted air. In a similar manner, you can clean the air ducts and ventilation system of your home by hiring the services of a duct cleaning company (like DUCTZ of Mid Michigan or the ones in your vicinity). This can ensure that you get a constant supply of fresh air.

You can also make use of an air conditioner, especially during summer. Air conditioners get rid of the air in the atmosphere, together with the small particles and pollen in the air. To increase the efficiency of your air conditioner, use one that comes with a disposable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

Another method you can use to purify the air in your house is by using natural air purifiers such as beeswax candles. Rather than using scented candles that leave behind petroleum-derived gases in the air, use beeswax candles since they ionize the air and neutralize any contaminants.

Create a Healing Space

How would you like to feel when you are at home? Instead of spending too much time decorating your house to look amazing, organize your house in a way that fosters good health. First, identify the space that makes you comfortable. It may be next to a plant, a view from the window, or a sentimental image.

You can then add a comfortable chair in the area and include materials that further enhance calmness such as candles or scented oils. If you’re considering using candles as a form of healing, be sure to read the articles on sites such as Candle Obsession to learn more about how they might be useful. The healing space should be quiet and free from anything that does not make you happy.

You can also set the mood using lighting to uplift your moods.

Bring In Nature

You may find different components of nature appealing to your health. For example, plants can help reduce stress and anxiety. They can also help with the purification of indoor air. You should therefore consider adding a few plants indoors.

If you want to create an indoor garden, add plants of different sizes and shapes around the house. You can place them on countertops, in corners, or hung them from the ceiling.

Mix up different plants and distribute them across the various rooms in the house. Depending on your location, you can find local plant delivery services where you can purchase home plants to be delivered to your door.

Not to mention, there are plenty of natural plant aromas that make the environment pleasant. They can enhance your mood and improve your immune system. You can get some indoor plants or used their oils that have a therapeutic effect on various health conditions.

A good example is peppermint oil that helps to reduce mental and physical fatigue and lavender oil that helps you to remain calm.

A Healthy Kitchen

Visual cues play an important role in the design of a wellness kitchen. Ensure that you stock up your fridge and pantry with fresh produce. Reorganize the entire kitchen and ensure that unhealthy foods are out of sight. Only place healthy foods on kitchen countertops.

Ensure that your drinking water is more visible to encourage you to drink water every morning when you get into the kitchen. Ensure that your kitchen is cooking-friendly. You can cultivate an indoor herb garden or stack your shelf with several healthy cookbooks that you can use to draw inspiration.

Stock up your food items more frequently to keep you from eating out and ensure that you prepare your healthy meal.

Summing Up

Transforming your home into your sanctuary can appear to be a lot of work. However, you can achieve the results you are looking for by just making a few slight changes. Every change you make should have a positive impact on your health.

Consider your eye health when setting up the lighting. While artificial lights can also be effective, your first consideration should be natural light. Ensure there is enough airflow in your house. Only then can your home provide you with the relaxation you deserve.

Whenever someone close to us has a new baby, we find ourselves trying to brainstorm ways to help her out. Between the sleepless nights and major transitions, she’s sure to need a little help with something, right? But what are some of the best ways to help out a new mom that aren’t too overdone or overbearing? Check out some of our go-to things to do to lend a hand to the new moms in your life!

Get Groceries

For many, an easy go-to for helping out new moms is to make a fresh meal and bring it over. While I’m sure this is appreciated, it’s very likely that she has a refrigerator full of lasagnas and casseroles at this very moment. If you’re wanting to help out with food, consider making a stop at the grocery store for her. Shoot her a text and see if she needs some essentials, such as bread, milk, eggs, cheese, etc. You might also consider getting her a gift card to a food delivery service such as Grubhub or Doordash.

Offer to Hang Out with the Baby

This one is a classic, but it really never gets old. If you have a good relationship with the new mother, you might consider offering to spend a few hours with the baby so that she can have some time to herself. Whether she wants to revel in a luxuriously long shower, take a nap, or even just read a book or watch a movie by herself, giving her the option to have some me time is sure to be appreciated. You might also want to get her some video baby monitors if she doesn’t already have any – they’ll help her keep an eye on the baby when she’s in another room and nobody else is around.

Get Her Supplies for Postpartum Recovery

When a new baby comes, there is so much emphasis put on what to do to prepare for and tend to him. What we often fail to acknowledge is the mother’s postpartum needs. No matter what kind of birth experience she had, there are a few things she’ll need to make her postpartum recovery easier. Mombox has a great postpartum recovery box that provides all of the necessary supplies for recovering mamas, and would make a fantastic gift!

Hire a Cleaning Team

This is a definite crowd pleaser. Hire a team of professional cleaners to go and spruce up her home a bit. This is sure to help her feel more relaxed and in control, something that every new mom desperately wants to feel. Depending on what she wants, you might invite her over to your house for a few hours while the crew takes care of her house. Talk to her beforehand to see what works best.

Help Prep Food

There will come a time when she feels ready to start making meals again, and having a few easy options on hand will make a world of difference. Prep a few freezer meals that will make for some easy dinners so that she has some good options to choose from. If she has a crock pot or pressure cooker, take that into account when you’re putting the freezer meals together. Additionally, if the baby is taking formula, you can get some best tasting formula as a gift.

Bring a Gift for Her

Everyone is dropping off little outfits for the little one and boxes of diapers and wipes. These are wonderful things to do! However, a great way to help a new mom is to bring a gift just for her. Whether it’s a bottle of bath salts, a good new book or even her favorite treat, this is a great way to help her feel seen.

We all want to lend a helping hand to new moms who’ve just given birth. If you’re looking for some good ways to help a new mom that you’re close to, be sure to consider some of our favorite go-to’s for taking care of the mamas in our lives!

Now that you have finally met your little one, it’s time for those cute, sleepy little newborn pictures. Keep in mind that the clock is ticking so it’s best to set the date with your photographer a few weeks in advance to make sure that they won’t be booked up.

Surf through the web to find the best San Antonio newborn photographer (or the one where you live, of course), do the required research, and only then decide to book. However, don’t be late for the booking. To schedule safely, you should book the week after your due date. The ideal time for a newborn session is when they are five to twelve days old. This will also give you time to find the best site to buy Instagram followers if you’re into your social media! If you need some ideas on themes, here’s a quick list of three options you can’t go wrong with.

Royalty

When your baby arrives, you’ll naturally want to treat them like a prince or princess. Using accessories such as little crowns and faux fur robes make for the perfect photo. Another element that works great for the royalty theme is the choice of props that you use. A mini gold carriage for them to lay on, jewels to surround them with, or creative use of lace are all beautiful options to make your pictures regal. Make sure that you always choose a few backdrop options so you can have a variety of different moods and feels. With the right backdrop, you won’t need as many props since they tend to set the mood and bring out the simplicity in a photo. You can also hire a Newborn Photographer near your location to implement these ideas since a professional could easily provide you with necessary props or may have ideas about beautiful backdrops. This can help you save your energy to have a successful baby photoshoot.

Sports

Set good habits now and dress your little one in a miniature sports kit! We can assume that at some point in their life they will be playing a sport, and if you have a favourite game that you play, it can be a fun way to introduce your baby to it. Choose a sport you’re passionate about and have the props ready to go for the session. If it’s basketball, you can use a jersey or basketball net to lay your baby on top of. You can also position them to look like they’re holding a mini basketball. Some fun sports that use a lot more props are baseball and football since you can use a ball, mini team shirts, and even small little boots.

Matching

If the baby has an older brother or sister, it’s only right that a matching session should take place. Adorable baby onesies and kids t-shirts at The Spunky Stork allow you to pick coordinating outfits for each. If you do decide to go with matching outfits, make sure that the material that the baby onesie is made from is from a safe material. Newborn skin tends to be the most sensitive so a material such as organic cotton is a bit more safe than others. When taking these types of sibling pictures, make sure that the poses you choose don’t require much from each. For example, big brother may not be old enough to understand that the baby’s head needs to be held a certain way to avoid harm. Depending on your photographer’s skills, they may be able to photoshop a hand or two out of the picture if you need to step in and help hold your baby. It would be best if you talked it over with your photographer during scheduling so that you are all on the same page for what can be expected to bring your vision to life.

Once your baby is here, it will be a little overwhelming getting used to the new change in your life, so stay ahead of the game and schedule your session sooner than later. Put this on your list of to-dos and cross it off as soon as you can so you can have a stress-free session.

There is more to home renovation than just fixing your roof or repairing faulty plumbing. It is about enhancing the comfort of your home while transforming its beauty. While these costs can appear small, they build up so quickly to exceed your budget. Home improvement spending is the fastest-growing retail business as the US’s average homeowner spends $7,560 on renovation. So, are you planning or in the process of renovating your home? Then you should check these techniques below to ensure your home renovation isn’t a strain on your budget.

• Make purchases online

Image by Free stock photos from www.rupixen.com from Pixabay

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Whether you are looking for décor pieces, furniture, or styling accessories for your home, shop online to profit from deals, discounts, and limited time offers. You also have the advantage of looking through several shops in a single space and in less time. You can especially check out dropshipping businesses as well (click here for dropshipping suppliers) that can provide your various items from anywhere around the world at a reasonable price. Additionally, plumbing and the electrical system might need repairing; they require extra attention during renovation works because they can’t be replaced frequently as compared to any other appliance. Hence, for electricals, you may want to hire an experienced and reputed firm like a Sunshine electrical company that can install new connections and replace faulty wirings. Likewise, try to utilize your digital payment options to receive cashback and shopping rewards. Making your purchases online is additionally helpful as it saves you time with doorstep delivery.

• Try DIY renovations

While some repairs and renovations will need a professional, there are many others you can handle yourself. Why pay someone for a simple fix when you can break the sweat, get the job done and save yourself some extra cash? Although DIY approaches may save you a fair amount of money, it is essential to recognize areas you will need expert assistance to avoid incurring high future costs and home hazards. For example, if you experience flickering and dimming in your lights, or tripping breakers, then your home may require an upgrade on its electrical panel. You will need an electrical panel upgrade service since it entails an intricate process. Aside from the fact that the task is intricate, another reason you shouldn’t do it alone is that you may not possess sufficient knowledge to perform the process safely. There are many things you may not realize are needed to be done, such as switching off the power, removing all wires, taking out the old panel, disposing of it safely, adding the new panel to the wall, reattaching the existing healthy wiring, and adding new circuits for appliances and secondary circuits. That said, remember that you may not also have the necessary safety wear like Arc-flash gloves and protective boots to save you from electrocution. (Note: Fatal electrocution happens when the human body comes into contact with a current that is excessive enough to overstimulate the nervous system, cause cardiac arrest, or harm internal organs) So, it would be a good idea to leave the task to the professionals.

• Why throw away when you can sell?

It is common to find that certain items no longer fit into your new home design after renovation. If it doesn’t work anymore in your contemporary décor, it doesn’t mean it isn’t valuable. Instead of just discarding them, sell your items for some cash, which can do so much for your budget. For items like furniture, refrigerators, and appliances, you can use your local recycler or sell them online. This way, you get to declutter while recouping some of your renovation costs.

• Be meticulous with changes

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You will spend considerably less if your home renovation is limited to one area. Suppose you plan for significant redesigning like changing room layouts, electrical wiring, and other plumbing works; in that case, your expenses will increase significantly since there are several material and labour costs to spend on. You may have to invest in the services offered by your best local electrician or plumber, for instance, or buy things that are required for the specific remodelling project. Basically, everything would cost you little. But, it all depends on how you plan to approach the project and budget accordingly. That said, are you also considering adding to or changing your washroom layout? Then you will need to take a moment and reconsider your remodel plan. If possible, focus on one or two rooms instead of the entire house.

Renovations can be expensive, but with these tips, you can cut back on costs and save more money. Make the most out of deals and be sure to create a comprehensive plan before you go ahead with your renovation.

Whether you are an expectant, new, or experienced mother, that does not mean you need to give up on your career dreams. It may, however, mean you need to reconsider your footwear choices depending on what stage you are at, as well as how confident you feel within yourself.

If you have a relaxed dress code at work, this can take off some of the pressure of finding the ideal pair of shoes. On the other hand, if your business sector has a fairly strict or professional dress code, you may be wondering how you can comply with those requirements, while still doing what is best for your body. If you’re on your feet for work, supportive shoes, orthopedic footwear, or even shoes for bunions can greatly reduce the chance of foot pain and conditions such as plantar fasciitis.

Heels

Unless specified by your company, the heel height on your shoe can vary depending on your own confidence walking in this type of shoe – see the latest stiletto heels at NOVO if you feel comfortable and safe in this style (not recommended if you are heavily pregnant!). On top of that, the shoe material and colour itself can differ a lot, meaning you could buy several of the same style in different colours, depending upon what your outfit for the day will be.

Heels can also be worn with both pantsuits or skirts, keeping your options as open as your workplace will allow can help you to make fresh outfit and shoe choices, rather than cycling through the same few options repeatedly.

Flats

For those working women who are pregnant, or have recently given birth, you may need to wear flat shoes to help support your legs and back, and reduce the risk of tripping and falling at work. Finding the best pair of comfortable and practical flat shoes that don’t eat too much into your budget, can help you both keep more money aside for your baby, and stop you from feeling too many aches and pains in your working day.

Sports Shoes

This is a requirement if you enjoy working out. Possibly you are returning home from the gym. It’s important to take good care of your body even though you may be handling everything on your own. And athletic footwear can help you with that. Your comfort during all of your workouts will be assured by the sports shoes. Even when moving quickly or vigorously, these shoes are comfortable to wear thanks to the cushioned layer under your heels, the ideal fit, and the unique design. This is why wearing a good pair of sports shoes helps you perform all workout tasks better. Leg injuries are also fairly common, particularly when working out or exercising. And the majority of these occur because you can’t maintain perfect balance while participating in the activities. Well, you can feel completely safe and improve your balance by investing in a nice pair of sports shoes that you can purchase from online retailers using SportsShoes Discount Codes. Not only can you avoid leg injuries, but also falls and slips brought on by them.

Boots

Many women feel uncomfortable wearing traditional shoes either while pregnant or just after having their baby. That’s because the stress of carrying a tiny human can change the way the body looks and feels. For any women who want to feel comfortable in the workplace, and hide any swollen ankles or legs, a good pair of loose-fitting boots can be the answer. You can opt for either flat boots or those with heels, depending on your current situation. These need to also be not too tight, as you do not want to risk rubbing, or even losing circulation, just for the sake of fashion.

Smart boots can also be paired under trousers, or even with skirts, to give you more flexibility on your outfit choices, especially with changing weather conditions. You will find that security and comfort are two very personal concepts. A single pair of boots won’t necessarily fit all women. However, take the time to research your options and stick to a pair that will help you boost your results. For that purpose, Shoe Adviser’s reviews will come in handy to help you compare and pick the best for you.

As a mother who also earns a living, you want to keep yourself looking great, feeling at ease, and setting a good example to your children. By opting for chic and smart footwear that matches your company dress codes, and your walking ability in certain types of shoes, you can still look the part without compromise.

The story among first time moms is a common one.  We see moving photos of mama’s breastfeeding their littles…looking so natural and graceful…and we begin to put together an assumption in our minds that breastfeeding will be a natural process for us.  Our dreams become filled with Pinterest-worthy moments of feeding our littles in the quiet of night, soothed by the sounds of them effortlessly taking in mama’s milk while we gaze down on them lovingly.

But then reality hits and we are forced to trade in our newborn dreams for cracked nipples, low milk-supply, tongue ties, crying (and I don’t just mean the baby!) and an unwavering concern as to the unknown amount of milk that our baby has actually consumed from the breast!

While this isn’t the reality we would have picked, it is the reality for most moms as they figure out their babies feeding journey.  While there may be a temptation to feel we’ve been “robbed” of this blissful new baby feeding experience, I have to wonder if instead that dreamy story of blissful newborn feeding was a lie that we allowed ourselves to believe from the beginning.  The real story that we missed from the beginning is that the 4th trimester, in all of its glory, takes support.  Lots of support.

Nursing Bra Express has been in the business of supporting mama’s since 2011.  Their nursing bra experts have created an entire line of practical support items for breastfeeding mama’s that includes: Maternity Nursing Bras, Breastfeeding Clothes, Maternity & Postpartum Shapewear, & Breastfeeding Accessories.  One-stop shopping for the pregnant and nursing mama!

Recently, Nursing Bra Express has expanded their product line even further to help support breastfeeding mama’s nutrition.  They have created a new line of Lactation Cookie Mix’s to help support and boost milk supply.  The cookie mixes come in the following classic flavors: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Oatmeal White Chocolate Chip and a Lactation Cookie Base Mix that allows you to add whatever delicious toppings you’re craving! Loaded with key ingredients to help support milk production, the Lactation Cookie Mix’s make for a delicious 4th trimester treat that will be both sweet and filling for mom’s!

The cookie mix ingredients are thoughtfully prepared ahead of time so all you to do is add your own egg and butter prior to baking.  Each mix provides 2 dozen cookies and it is recommended that a breastfeeding mama eats 2 cookies a day for best results, allowing for a few days of consuming the cookies to start seeing results.  If you have extra’s – no problem! The lactation cookies also hold up well in the freezer if you plan to stock up and make the cookies ahead of time.

These mixes not only provide a sweet treat for mothers to make for themselves when beginning their breastfeeding journey, they would also make an excellent gift for a new mom in your life!  Whether you drop off the mix on its own or make the cookies ahead of time for her to have ready to eat or freeze, the Nursing Bra Express Lactation Cookie Mixes are a practical gift that will support her in her breastfeeding journey!

Further showing their understanding that each woman’s breastfeeding journey can come with different challenges, Nursing Bra Express has a “Breastfeeding Support” highlight on their website.  Included are numerous articles on topics ranging from “When to Buy a Nursing Bra” to “Common Latching Problems from A to Z” and more!  This resource provides moms, whether nursing their first child or their fourth, with further support in providing tips and explanations to common challenges and topics that come up for breastfeeding mamas in all stages.

While we cannot control the ultimate outcome of our breastfeeding journey, we can make sure to surround ourselves with resources and products that will support us in our motherhood journey.  Nursing Bra Express provides mama’s with a variety of resources with just that in mind: Supporting mama’s!