Christmas is DIFFERENT!

Don’t be fooled. There are many pretty, empty boxes under the tree as well as my family’s gift for our trip to the in-laws on Christmas Day.

It’s funny! No one told me that Christmas would be way different once my kids got older. I mean, I knew it would be different but I didn’t know how sad it would make me. 

It was just different

Their lists are smaller. 

No one is asking for anything crazy or exciting. 

There are no toys to put together. 

No one is putting out cookies and milk (this was the first year). 

I can put the gifts under the tree as I wrap them instead of hiding them (this was the first year I did this because we were going to be away until the eve so I needed everything done for our return from vacation).

I didn’t need to wait for the kids to go to bed so my husband and I could very quietly make the magic happen. 

They woke after 8 and patiently waited until we were all ready with our coffee.

No photos were taken (this was the first year for that too!)

We didn’t record this year’s present opening (this was our first year not doing this as well).

It was just different.

I longed for my kids to squeal in excitement. Hug me after opening each gift, holding this up to show us we they got! They know I already know. I mean they could have showed Dad. He had no idea. 

It was just different.  

Christmas is different and you have to find something to be excited over. We were going to Universal before Christmas so they kids were told there would only be a few things from their wish lists under the tree. They understood. I didn’t get it for them. I got it for me. I find such joy in watching people open their gifts. It makes me warm and happy inside. 

My words to parents….it changes. Kids grow up. Kids find other people to spend time with during the holidays (this hasn’t happened for me yet but I am sure it will). Spend time with friends and family. Do crafts. Bake. Cook. Surprise a neighbor. BUT for now…enjoy every moment with your kids. When you are knee deep in wrapping paper and just can’t put together another toy and there are pieces of toys all over. Sit back and smile knowing you created magic for your kids. You made them happy. 

I am not sad! I am just missing their youth! Missing their excitement which means losing my own excitement. 

It was a great vacation. we are blessed to have been able to do it. It was a great Christmas. We are thankful to have been able to shop for gifts for our family. We are grateful that our kids are with us. We are truly blessed this year and we don’t take anything for granted. God is good and we are fortunate to spend time together. 

Reasons Why Moving Into A Care Home Could Be A Positive Choice

 

Deciding to move into a care home is a big deal that many people and their families may find daunting. However, it's essential to recognize that this change can be a positive and enriching experience for seniors. This article is here so you can learn more about why moving into a care home can be a positive choice. 

 

Professional Care 

One of the primary advantages of moving into a care home like stanshawescarehome.com is access to professional care and support. Trained carers are available at all times to assist residents with their daily activities, ensuring that their physical and medical needs are met. This level of support can bring peace to both older people and also their famillies, who can take comfort that their loved ones are in capable hands.

 

Social Interaction 

Isolation and loneliness are very common for older people, especially those living alone. Care homes offer a sense of community where residents can take part in activities, share meals, and build meaningful connections with their peers. The sense of companionship and camaraderie can significantly enhance the overall well-being of seniors, fostering a positive and supportive social environment.

 

Safety and Security

A care home provides a secure and monitored living environment, minimizing the risks associated with living alone, such as accidents or medical emergencies. With trained staff available to respond promptly to any situation, seniors can enjoy a sense of security that contributes to their overall peace of mind. This safety net allows residents to focus on living their lives to the max without constant worries about personal security.

 

Nutritious Meals 

A healthy and well-balanced diet is crucial for the overall health of older people. Care homes typically offer nutritious meals prepared by professional chefs, taking into consideration dietary restrictions and individual preferences. Having access to well-planned, regular meals helps to supportphysical health and also contributes to a positive and enjoyable dining experience for residents.

 

Access to Leisure Activities

Care homes often organize a variety of recreational and leisure activities to keep residents engaged and entertained. These activities may include exercise classes, art workshops, music sessions, and outings. Engaging in such activities provides entertainment and also contributes to mental stimulation, physical well-being, and a sense of purpose, fostering a positive and fulfilling lifestyle.

 

Relief for Caregivers

Moving into a care home can be a positive choice not only for the seniors themselves but also for their family caregivers. Being a carer can be emotionally and physically demanding, and the decision to transition to a care home may offer much-needed relief to family members. Knowing that their loved ones are receiving professional care and support allows family caregivers to focus on maintaining a healthy balance in their own lives.

While the decision to move into a care home may initially be met with apprehension, it’s essential to recognize the numerous positive aspects associated with this choice. Embracing this change can lead to a fulfilling and positive chapter in the lives of elderly people, promoting well-being and allowing them to age with dignity and grace.

 

Exploring the Benefits and Must-Have Treatments at a Skin Clinic

Skin health often takes center stage in your quest for beauty and well-being. A skin clinic, with its array of advanced treatments and professional expertise, becomes a haven for those seeking to enhance and maintain the vitality of their skin. The benefits of visiting a skin clinic extend beyond superficial beauty; they encompass holistic well-being. Let's delve into the myriad advantages and some of the best treatments one can experience at a skin clinic.

Personalized Consultations

One of the primary benefits of a skin clinic, like visavisskinclinic.com, is the personalized attention and consultation provided by skilled dermatologists. These professionals analyze your skin type, identify concerns, and tailor treatments to meet individual needs. This personalized approach ensures that the treatments are effective and safe for your specific skin requirements.

State-of-the-Art Technology

Skin clinics are equipped with cutting-edge technology that goes beyond what can be achieved at home. These tools allow for precise diagnosis and targeted treatments, from laser therapies to advanced imaging devices. Technology such as laser resurfacing, intense pulsed light (IPL), and radiofrequency treatments can address a variety of skin issues, including wrinkles, pigmentation, and acne scars.

Medical-Grade Skincare Products

Skin clinics often offer access to medical-grade skincare products that are not readily available over the counter. These products, formulated with potent ingredients, can address specific skin concerns and contribute to long-term skin health. Dermatologists can recommend a skincare regimen tailored to your needs, incorporating these high-quality products for optimal results.

Acne Treatments

Acne, a common skin concern, can be effectively managed through professional treatments available at a skin clinic. Procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and targeted laser therapies can help combat acne and minimize the appearance of scars. Dermatologists can also prescribe medication and provide guidance on proper skincare routines to prevent future breakouts.

Anti-Aging Solutions

Skin clinics offer a range of anti-aging treatments to address wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of skin elasticity. Injectables like Botox and dermal fillers are popular choices for minimizing the signs of aging. Additionally, non-invasive treatments such as micro-needling and ultrasound therapy stimulate collagen production, promoting a more youthful complexion.

Skin Rejuvenation Therapies

Skin rejuvenation goes beyond addressing specific issues; it focuses on overall skin health and vibrancy. Treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and photofacials can revitalize the skin, improving texture and tone. Regular skin rejuvenation sessions can contribute to a radiant and refreshed appearance.

Treatment for Skin Conditions

Skin clinics are equipped to address various dermatological conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Dermatologists can provide targeted treatments and ongoing management plans to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals dealing with these conditions.

Conclusion

A visit to a skin clinic offers a holistic approach to skin health. The benefits extend far beyond the surface, from personalized consultations to state-of-the-art treatments. Whether you're seeking to address specific concerns or simply enhance your skin's natural beauty, the expertise, and resources available at a skin clinic can guide you on a journey to radiant and healthy skin.

 

Compelling Reasons to Consider Plastic Surgery for Personal Transformation

Plastic surgery can improve self-esteem by addressing issues that cause discomfort, such as a misshapen nose or disproportionate breasts. It can also create more symmetry or give a younger look.

However, ensuring you're seeking a cosmetic procedure for the right reasons is important. Otherwise, you might rely on it for happiness and a sense of self-worth that could be more easily achieved through other means.

Extend Your Youthfulness

Many people who undergo plastic surgery want to address a particular body part they feel is faulty or unattractive. For instance, some men and women want to correct their enlarged ears or flabby noses. Others feel their breasts are too small and opt for augmentations to enhance the size and shape of their chest. With the right surgeon and technique, such changes are very natural-looking.

Another reason for cosmetic surgeries is to slow aging by reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. This allows patients to look more like their age and may boost their competitiveness in the job market.

Plastic surgery can make people feel better about themselves and lead happier lives. However, it is important to have realistic expectations before deciding on the procedure. The most successful outcomes come from choosing a qualified and skilled plastic surgeon Bellevue who operates from an accredited facility and prioritizes safety. The right surgeon can help you achieve the physical and psychological results you desire to improve your quality of life.

Improved Self-Esteem

One of the top reasons people seek plastic surgery is to enhance their appearance and improve their self-esteem. This is not just a matter of feeling more confident in social situations; studies show that individuals with healthy self-esteem are better equipped to handle life's challenges.

Some patients experience body dysmorphic disorder, in which they obsess about nonexistent flaws in their appearance. In these cases, undergoing plastic surgery to correct an unattractive feature can help them feel more comfortable in their skin, but it does not cure the mental disorder.

For the rest of the population, however, a plastic surgery procedure can make them feel more confident in their skin and able to enjoy life to the fullest. When done for the right reasons—to meet societal beauty standards, to impress a spouse, or to catch the eye of a potential love interest—, it can positively impact an individual's quality of life, especially for those with physical insecurity, like a misshapen nose or disproportionate breasts.

A New Lease on Life

As long as patients don't go into plastic surgery with unrealistic expectations, it can be a life-changing experience. It can be a major component of a personal transformation that involves rejecting bad health habits and esteem-lowering attitudes and starting over with new goals.

For example, women who opt for breast implants might find that their appearance boost helps them to be more receptive to romantic possibilities and can help them stay focused on their careers instead of feeling self-conscious about their new, natural shape. They might even feel more able to say yes to a well-deserved promotion at work, knowing that their appearance will give them an edge over the competition.

The same might be true for men with a facelift or another cosmetic procedure. Although they might not want to admit it, many men feel they are a better catch when their looks are improved, which may lead to greater success in the dating game.

Enhance Your Physical Appearance

Some procedures, such as rhinoplasty and blepharoplasty, enhance facial features that make a person more attractive in social or professional settings. Others, like tummy tucks and liposuction, improve a person's posture and help him look healthier after weight loss.

People who are self-conscious about a specific body feature often turn to cosmetic surgery. However, it's important to note that a person should only consider such surgery if he is emotionally healthy and has worked through the problem with the help of a therapist, as changing his appearance won't solve emotional problems.

Also, while cosmetic surgery can boost self-esteem and improve a person's outlook on life, it shouldn't be seen as a quick fix for weight issues that could be treated with diet and exercise. Ultimately, patients should think carefully about what they want to change about their physical appearance and choose a surgeon who has a good track record in performing the procedure.

OMG I Am Feeling Done

The past month and a half have been a literal shit show of just rapid moments of craziness and I am so over it. 

I knew November and December would be a bit nuts because we have been planning a vacation for the month of December since February and I knew that most everything for my personal life and my school life would have to be done before I left. In preschool this is a very important month for these kids. Many don’t remember their first two Christmases and are very excited about this one. I, as a parent of young adults love making this is special month for my class and sometimes go a bit overboard with my plans. That’s on me. I have a tree up in the class, two felt trees with ornaments as well as a felt gingerbread they can play with and decorate. I play and sing Christmas Carols with them, read them Christmas books and talk about Christmas. 

For the past few years I have about 15 different things I do with my class for Christmas plus the parent gift  and the gift I give each kid. It is a stressful I mean it’s December and my personal life is as busy. Shopping lists, cards, cleaning, decorating, touching base with friends and family and all the normal things that go into everyone’s day to day life. 

This morning I woke at 2:50 A.M. I was trying to come up with something for the project the Director of the center felt we should do, plus the one I had started weeks ago on my own not know there would be some global project that was decided for the teachers of the center. I need to mail out things, feeling like I don’t have anything for my own kids and husband for Christmas. They are fine with that, we are going on vacation but it’s not for them, it’s for me. I want to give them something. 

Plus, I was trying to remember to order the kids contacts today, and what was that other thing I need to do? UGH I don’t remember. I am babysitting two nights this week, I hate flying and will have to do that soon. It just felt like too much. 

Not only did I wake too early, I had to be at work by 6  A.M. today. Have a 3:00 appointment at the chiropractor, it just never ends.

Then there is this whole “real” world thing going on. War, people dying, global warming, prepping, government, blah blah blah. It is all too much.

Does anyone else feel that things are spinning out of control or is it just me? I remind myself that I am blessed. My family is healthy, I am healthy, and my class is healthy. Things can always be worse but this morning it just seemed unbearable.