The Sisterhood of the World Bloggers Award

 

I was recently nominated for the sisterhood of the world bloggers award from Lauren at Working Mom Magic. The point of this is to help spread the blogger love and learn a little bit more about the people behind the blog… so, here we go!

Here are the rules:

1. Link to the person who nominated you.

2. Add the award logo.

3. Answer the questions your nominator has asked.

4. Nominate a few other blogs and let them know.

5. Ask your nominees 10 questions.

Here’s what Lauren asked me:

1. Describe yourself in three words. Laidback, Hard working (pretend that’s one word), Silly

2. How did you choose the name of your blog? One of my side hustles is selling the world’s best mascara, so I am a mascara maven, but since I do so much more – I had to add “and more” to the name

3. Who do you go to for advice? No one really, haha. When I do, I guess it depends on the topic.

4. What is your favorite food or meal? Pizza! And anything breakfast – like french toast or pancakes.

5. If you could furnish your entire house, for free, from one catalog/store/website, which would it be? Z Gallery (if it’s free, I’m going to get my money’s worth!)

6. What is your favorite blog post to date? (& post a link!) What really happens behind the scenes – this stuff is just fun to talk about with other TV peeps. We can all relate and get mad and laugh about the craziness of the business.

7. What was your favorite toy as a child? My easy bake oven!
8. Tell me the last really good book your read. Whatever last James Patterson book I read. I’m obsessed with him! (and I read so many I can’t keep the titles straight)

9 Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Working from home so I can make it to all the kids school events!

10. Post the last thing you put on Instagram.

I nominate the following bloggers:

Aileen Van Pelt with Newsy Parents

Aubrey Aquino with 53 Weeks

Constance Jones with The Crafty Reporter

Melissa Yeager with KC Girl Travels

Here my 10 questions for you to answer:

1. Who is your celebrity crush?
2. How did you choose the name of your blog?
3. What would you do if you won the lottery?
4. What is your favorite food or meal?
5. If you could furnish your entire house, for free, from one catalog/store/website, which would it be?
6. What is your dream job?
7. What is the best blogging advice you’ve ever received?
8. Tell me the last really good book your read.
9. Post the last thing you put on Facebook.
10. What is your pet peeve?

Why the “Avon Lady” doesn’t make me think “grandma” anymore

Let me start off by saying, I hate sales. I don’t like asking people for money or asking people to buy things. In college, I worked at Victoria’s Secret for two weeks before quitting. Why? Because I didn’t want to borderline harass people in hopes of them leaving the store with a little pink bag in hand. (Not to mention straightening out all those panties to just have someone come by and mess them up every three minutes is really annoying.)

But now, I am in sales… kind-of. Becoming a Younique Presenter started as a hobby and something to do on the side because it was fun and addicting, but now, it’s actually bringing in some money. (Something I never thought would actually happen!) Remember the mom in Edward Scissorhands who went knocking door to door, “Avon calling!” Well, that’s me! I’m the newer, younger (and cuter) version of that. Honestly, when I think of Mary Kay or Avon I think “grandma” so I always include that when I tell people what my side hustle is. I’m going to tell you how I got started because I think it’s why so many people in their 20s and 30s are jumping into the multi-level-marketing/direct sales/network marketing/whatever you want to call it business.

Facebook. One of my friends kept posting about this 3D mascara over and over and over again. Finally, after seeing it about 25 times, I caved and bought it. I signed up to sell the stuff as soon as I got it and had it on one eye. (Yes, it’s that good!) I don’t know what I was thinking. I hate this sales stuff and I already work a full time job, with two small kids at home. Then AFTER I signed up, I learned how easy working the network marketing business is. It starts and ends with Facebook. It’s how I was introduced to the product, then the business, then it is how I worked my business. It’s how most do now.

Millennials are busy. Most of us are working full time jobs away from the home while caring for young kids before and after that job. Today, network marketing isn’t going door to door with samples and it isn’t having all of your friends come over for a party. It can be if you want it to be, but it is so much easier to sell your products and grow your team on social media. Not only is it more convenient for all of us working, but it’s the best way to reach so many people at one time. The guests added to a Facebook party most likely would never be able to sit in your living room (nor would they want to) to hear about you go on about this beauty product or piece of jewelry or weigh loss regimen. But online, all you have to do is post a picture, a testimonial, a video – and you are done. We’ve grown up with this technology. We’ve learned it as it was being released, so there is no better medium for us to work.

Plus, the business model itself actually works! We’ve seen the successful presenters/distributors/designers/whatever you want to call them in our upline make tens of thousands of dollars a month in the direct sales business. For many of us busy parents who rush to and from work everyday, it is our hope. It’s our goal to be that person in our upline… that person who is our age and who is doing the same thing we are. I am happy to say, I am on my way there!

I also give credit to the show Shark Tank for this splurge of young people in MLM. I think because of that show, we are living in an entrepreneurial world now more than ever before. I’m not saying people in direct sales are entrepreneurs, because I don’t believe that – unless you are the one who started the company. I’m saying we want to be our own boss. We want to pay ourselves and not worry about when we can use that two-weeks paid vacation time or “wasting” a sick day because our toddler is banned from going to daycare due to her runny nose.

I’ve read it before and I’ll write it here – millennials are spoiled. We don’t want to work 40+ hours a week in hopes of getting a 2% raise the next year. No one does. Do we want to work? Yes (well, most of us do because we have to), but we want to feel like we are working towards something bigger and better… and we want it now. For this reason, we are willing to take risks and pay $100 for that starter kit, because we will take chances. Why? We’ve seen it work for so many others – Bethany Mota makes one million dollars a year posting about DIY crafts and makeup on youtube. Look at reality stars like Snooki and Elisabeth Hasselbeck (yes, that’s how she got her start) and even the Kardashians (but don’t make a sex tape – that’s not where I’m going with this.) The point is today, there are so many more chances for us to become financially independent and as young professionals or as young parents, we see this. We see the opportunity in everything.

Originally posted on Chelsea Krost’s page.

How to Build Self Confidence

In my opinion, mean girls in adult life are one of two things: too spoiled and stuck up to care or know better… or just insecure. Fortunately, the insecurity issue can be fixed… and with the help of Isaya Marin from Isaya’s Corner, it can be done in 10 simple steps. She has great reasons for posting this that include working with young kids, so please see her original post here. In the meantime – here are some tips:

1. Learn! The more you know the better you’ll feel. So read a book, sign up for new classes. Challenge yourself to learn something new every day.
2. Exercise. The psychological effects of exercising makes us feel great, and let’s admit it, if you feel like you look better or are stronger, you’ll be gaining self-confidence in the process.
3. Remove negativity. Being negative or being surrounded by negativity will make you feel bad about yourself and bring more negativity into your life. Break the habit, Remember we attract what we think and do!
4. Do one thing every day that makes you smile.
5. Keep track of everything you’ve accomplished instead of the moments or tasks you’ve failed and focus on them. Write them down and read them every night or everytime you’re feeling down.
6. Stop letting others decide for you. You probably don’t even realize it but you’re doing so by acting how you think others want you to act. Be yourself at all times! You will lose people in the process (that don’t even matter, trust me!) but you’ll attract those you really need in your life.
7. Trust your instincts – they are always right. If you feel like something isn’t right then you are most probably right.
8. Ask for help. We all need help and admitting it is one of the biggest signs of self confidence. So when there’s something you can’t do by yourself, or if there’s something you need to talk about, ask someone for help.
9. Work on developing the skills you need to win at the things that matter to you.
10. Don’t compare yourself to others. We are all different and that’s the best part of life. Where’s the fun when everyone’s the same?

Another Ipsy Review from… Another Blogger

I just started getting Ipsy and am posting my monthly review about it on my blog… and another blogger Mandy Cramer does the same thing. Since we all get different stuff, I want to share her review of what she got too. To see her full review with pictures, visit her blog here.

Thanks for letting me share Mandy… (and I’m not big on creams on either!)

The first thing I noticed when I opened the package was the weird plastic texture of the bag and the unsightly colors. Don’t get me wrong! I usually love the bags the makeup comes in, but this time around was a different story… The orange, blue, and white combination on the bag is a little tacky in my opinion but I’m not generally paying for the makeup bag as much as I am paying for the actual products. I was expecting something a little cuter though. Maybe something a little more wintery?

The first product I received was the Malin + Goetz Mojito Lip Balm tube, which I originally thought was a cream (which would’ve really pissed me off. I am not a huge fan of creams, but Ipsy hasn’t seemed to take the hint in the past!). I thought it would be colored or scented (hence the name), but it is clear. No smell that I can detect, no color. It says it is used for “daily protection, soothing treatment, fatty acid absorption technology” so I guess… there’s… that. On the back it says it’s for the treatment and prevention of dry, irritated lips. I have never in a million years had this issue, but I guess I’ll find a use for it one of these days. I mean, I did pay for it. I will find a use for it.

And then, needless to say, I was frustrated again by another tube, that was in fact a cream this time around (SMH.) I thought I made it crystal clear in my survey that I did not want creams of any sort, but… oh well. The one I received in this bag was the Nourish Organic Renewing Eye Cream, which is also for people with dry skin. Again, I am the exact opposite of a dry skin sufferer. My skin is actually pretty oily as is, hence the apparent distaste for skin creams in general. I will, however, use these products and let you guys know what I think of them regardless of my preference! When I went in to smelling this product, I was horrified when it ended up on my nose and actually smelled uncannily like play dough. Yes, that stuff you used to play with and sometimes eat as a kid. It smells awful to me, but if you’re one of the people who enjoys that peculiar smell, then you might actually really enjoy this product. Around your eyes. Unlike me, who unwillingly was marked with this scent on the last place I’d want it to be on my face!

Next, I got this gorgeous pink Elizabeth Mott All Over Shadow brush and it is the cutest thing ever. I love the color of the brush and the bristles already (pink is one of my top 5 favorite colors, so this was an immediately positive reaction!) I haven’t used the brush yet, but I am always in need of new brushes, especially for eye shadow, so I have a hunch that I’m gonna like this one.

Then I got a Bellapierre Cosmetics pigment in “Exite”, which seems an awful lot like a spelling error. Is that a spelling error? Are you sure? No? …Okay moving on. This color is a shimmery white powder which I could imagine is going to look phenomenal when used to highlight and blend my eyeshadow. I’ve never had a pigment this glittery before, only glittered eyeliners, so I’m really looking forward to trying out this product. Most of the time, when I get pigments from Ipsy, they’re generally pretty fun sized but this one seems to be full-sized, which is a huge relief.

Lastly, I got a Pacifica Natural Mineral Coconut Eye Shadow in “Treasure”. The color is stunning and seems like it will be very neutral on my olive skin tone. It also has a little bit of shimmer to add that extra glam and has a pretty blue packaging box with whimsical white waves on the front. It looks expensive. When I looked it up, I came to realize that it is fairly expensive for an eye shadow and it’s actually vegan and cruelty free, which is totally awesome! Kudos to Ipsy for choosing brands that believe in causes like animal rights. I could see myself purchasing more from this brand if I end up enjoying the product.

Thanks again Mandirito!

Parents: Calm down about the homework issue

One school in New York City is doing away with homework. Principal’s orders. The school is elementary – kindergarten through the 5th grade.

According to the principal, all those math worksheets and essay assignments they were giving out were actually a total waste of time. Instead of homework, parents are encouraged to let kids spend their freed up time reading, playing outside or doing whatever activities they enjoy — with the recommendation that parents limit time spent watching TV and playing computer or video games. (Duh, right?!)

The principal explained to parents that “there have been a variety of studies conducted on the effects of homework in the elementary grades and not one of them could provide any evidence that directly links traditional homework practices with current, or even future, academic success.”

My only problem with this is the word “studies.” I hate studies because one day a study will show coffee can help you live longer and the next day it’s bad for your heart. For every study that says eating organic may prevent cancer, I’ll show you one that says eating organic has no proven health benefits. My own study – studies don’t mean shit. My common sense tells me these kids aren’t in high school or college. They are in elementary school and maybe that’s why their homework in the 3rd grade does not have a direct link to them being a brain surgeon in their adult life.

But some parents have issues with this. Their issues: The lack of focus this gives kids and fear students will fall behind academically.

Parents. Calm down. Most of the time homework is busy work. If you are concerned your child isn’t learning enough at school, then teach them more at home after school. Review what they learned at school that day or that week. Maybe that is more beneficial than homework. And like those popular studies some people take as God’s word, there is a flip side to this topic. Some parents are complaining schools give too much homework!

15 things that will make you a better person

I want to share a blog from someone who wrote an awesome post not too long ago. Thank you Tia from the 5 o’clock girl. If you haven’t check out her blog yet, please do – lots of fun stuff for busy women on the go!

It never fails. Every day I log on, I see a blog posting of a 22 year old telling people how to “do life”. The things you should have or be “to be successful.” Being a grown up isn’t about what you wear or choosing things to like because someone told you to. It is about lessons that you encounter and learn from. Note that I said “learn from”. So I thought I’d give it a go and toss out more practical tips as someone slightly older, semi-successful, well traveled, and far more self-aware individual.

Here are some things I’ve learned in my thirty-one years of existence. I’ve been lucky to have a few great mentors in my teens and twenties when I was dramatic, emotional and at times co-dependent. I never saw it in myself and often wondered why drama followed me around until three great bosses (and my parents) taught me to live for myself and the rest will fall into place.

1. If you don’t know the answer, say you don’t know and then find the answer. No one will fault you for owning up to your lack of knowledge. It’s called growth. They will, however, hold it against you if you bullshit your way through and give wrong advice.
2. Always do more than is required of you. That doesn’t mean do everything for everyone. It just means that average people get average results. If you’re not willing to work a little harder, don’t complain when you don’t accomplish anything.
3. Say yes to things you may not feel like doing. Say yes to opportunities that will make you better, brighten your horizon or may introduce you people who can pull you out of your slump. Say yes, but never allow yourself to be coerced into things you truly don’t want.
4. There is nothing wrong with unconventional dating. You may feel you deserve more than to meet someone online and have an underwhelming “how we met” story. But, the truth is that you deserve to find someone compatible with you, who respects and loves you. And you should recognize that love may not look like you thought it would. Or the person you fall for may have been out of your grasp because you aren’t running in circles that would have collided. Life isn’t the movies.
5. You’re never too old for rain boots and always keep an umbrella at your desk. It’s funny how something as insignificant as rain has the ability to ruin your whole day. It’s a small step in the right direction of being prepared and learning to anticipate change.

Tia has 10 more tips. To read those, visit her blog the 5 o’clock girl.

Pink Nails & Mommy Bloggers

I was invited out for a night of manicures with my fellow blogging friends last night… and had so much fun! We all met at Boca Nail Bar – a new salon that just opened. It is beautiful! I ended up channeling my 7-year-old self and going with the hot pink gel polish, with one “party nail” as I call it on my ring finger.

Now ladies, let’s talk gel. I normally don’t get it because I hate to soak my nails. I hate the way it feels and I am big on time management, so I don’t like to just sit there and spend more time than I have to at a salon. I have things to do. But, the Boca Nail Bar has their own brand of nail polish and it is all gel, so I had to get it… and I’m so glad I did. I forgot the gel polish looks so much better than regular polish. And it stays looking freshly painted for weeks!

I also got some swag to take home… that included nail polish my 2-year-old loved!

The best part about the night was getting to meet some of my new blogging friends in person I’ve only heard of or have just chatted with online. In my 2.5 seconds of blogging, I have learned that the blogging community is so helpful. When they get together, it really is about bouncing ideas off of one another and helping one another. None of that middle school mean girl stuff (at least I haven’t seen it yet.)

Thanks for a fun night Bloggin’ Mamas and Boca Nail Bar!

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

Today is Read Across America Day because it is Dr. Seuss’ birthday! It is also National Reading Month. Because reading is one of my hobbies (or was when I had time to do it), I want to share why you should read to your kids – at any age:

Reading… on the floor of a plane

Four reasons why studies show reading to a newborn is beneficial:

• While developing children’s language and communication skills, reading also helps children understand the world around them and gives context to what they see and experience. It is a way to open the world for your child.
• While babies may not understand the concepts and story lines of books, hearing your voice is comforting and, in time, the child will find meaning in the words you are using. In fact, the more words parents use when speaking to an 8-month-old infant, the greater the size of their child’s vocabulary at age 3.
• Reading to an infant can promote emergent literacy and language development. It helps children become familiar with books and accustomed to listening and focusing.
• According to analyses of the PISA exam (Program for International Student Assessment), which is given to 15-year-olds worldwide, the biggest factor influencing higher scores was whether or not a child was read to on a regular basis when they were young.

Crispy, No Mess Bacon

This may be the shortest and best post I will ever write.

How to make crispy bacon… without a mess of oil splatter.

Cook it in the oven at 400 degrees for 16-18 minutes.

That’s it.

Why did it take me so long to figure this out?

 

Parents: Stop putting this lesson off

My now almost two year old daughter starting swimming lessons when she was six months old. My five month old will also start young.

It’s important anywhere you live, but I believe in Florida, it’s borderline neglect if you don’t teach your child how to swim. This is my husband with our daughter at six months.

As a reporter, I covered so many drownings. One week, I did three separate ones.

Common sense tells us watching your kids around water and teaching them how to swim is important, but so many are not getting the message.

Here are some statistics you may not know:

FACT: About one in five people who die from drowning are children 14 and younger.

FACT: Children ages 1 to 4 have the highest drowning rates.

FACT: Among children ages 1 to 4, most drownings occur in home swimming pools.

FACT: Drowning is responsible for more deaths among children 1-4 than any other cause except congenital anomalies (birth defects).

FACT: Among those 1-14, fatal drowning remains the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related death behind motor vehicle crashes.

As far as not watching your kids around water, if you don’t know to do that – I can’t help you. But, I know swimming lessons can be expensive. I pay $20 a class which doesn’t sound bad, but after months and even years – it adds up, so here are some ways to keep your kids safe affordably:

• Look for coupons and special seasonal deals when looking for a pool to take swimming lessons
• If you have a pool, watch some youtube videos on the most effective ways to teach your child how to swim and become the teacher yourself
• Join local Facebook mom and family groups and start a discussion about a cost-effective way to teach your kids how to swim
• Check with your city, county or local organizations like the Drowning Prevention Coalition for free class vouchers

*Statistics from the CDC

*Graphics from poolsafety.org