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Floradise

A lifestyle blog by Marette Flora

Thoughtful Etsy Small Gift & Stocking Stuffer Ideas

** This post contains affiliate links. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Floradise!

I know by now many people have an idea of what to buy their loved ones for Christmas/the holidays, but I wanted to share a quick post on four stocking stuffer ideas found on Etsy. I am a huge fan of the site for personalized gifts as well as other handmade items. I shop Etsy frequently for thoughtful and personalized presents for my friends and family.

Four Etsy Gift Ideas:

  • Personalized ornament: I bought one for Addi’s first Christmas, but you can personalize this to fit your needs, such as for bridesmaid gifts. The handwriting is available in two styles and looks beautiful. I went with the modern version.

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  • Dog ornament: Any dog lover would be overjoyed to receive this.  I plan to order one as a gift this year.

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  • Gemstone necklace: I love wearing gemstone or crystal jewelry. It’s so pretty and makes such a good gift.

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  • Small succulent planter: Can’t Keep My Plants to Myself is just one of the available saying on the 4-inch handmade ceramic planters. It would be a fun idea to order one or two of these and grab some succulents.

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Where do you like to shop for small gifts or stocking stuffers? Have you ever shopped Etsy?

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Related posts:

Thoughtful Gifts to Buy on Etsy
Etsy Wedding Purchases

Why the Holidays Are a Perfect Time for Decluttering

I recently decluttered yet again, but this time I did it differently. In previous declutters I would take everything out and sort through items one by one, KonMari style. I don’t have that kind of time to devote to decluttering in my current phase of life, so this time I tackled my simplifying in a different way: I decluttered as I went. What this means is that when I would open a drawer to grab something I needed, I also quickly glanced around to see if there was anything in there that could go. Anytime I opened a closet, drawer, basket, etc., I would assess the contents and decide if I wanted to part with anything. This helped me accumulate several large bags of items to donate or recycle/repurpose in just over a month.

Examples of my current decluttering method:

When I reached for tops or bottoms for the baby and found anything that no longer fit, I tossed it in the bag.

When a toy broke or I noticed it wasn’t played with, I asked V if she still wanted it. I also asked her to let me know if there were toys she no longer was interested in because she would likely be getting some gifts for Christmas. She was sweet enough to put together a small pile of toys that she said she wanted to go to kids who don’t have many toys.

When I put clothes or shoes on V and they were too tight, I put them in the donation pile.

As I unpacked boxes or organized in our new house, I noticed if there were items I had forgotten about that I could do without.

When I did my makeup, I assessed how often I wore certain lip colors and took note of when makeup was set to expire.

When I put socks on, I threw those without matching partners or those with holes into the textile recycling bag. (Our city offers recycling for shoes and clothing.)

When I took out the holiday decorations, I donated or tossed anything that was broken or too worn out.

This decluttering method isn’t groundbreaking, but it does work for those who claim to have no time to devote to empty an entire room and then sort through items. Keeping a bag or box in a certain location that you can easily add to takes little to no effort. Then simply drop it off at your favorite charity or have it picked up. The key is getting those donations out of the house as soon as possible, though. No driving around with them in the trunk of your car for months. Pencil it into your planner immediately.

I wanted to declutter before the holidays because Christmas is always a time when people tend to shop more and accumulate more belongings, whether you want them or not. I pick up decorations, buy wrapping supplies and have a bunch left over, and receive gifts, like many people do. The tendency for many is to make a new year’s resolution to simplify and declutter, but really starting before the holidays gives you a headstart.

 

Related posts:

Inspiration From “Year of Less”
Decluttering and a Family Tradition
Thoughts on “Joy of Less”

 

How to Find Motivation and Inspiration When You’re in a Rut

Lately I have been feeling off. I happens every year when Chicago’s winter hits (unofficially). The darkness at 4:30 p.m., the constant cloudiness, the frequent snow/ice/rain combine to kill my motivation and make me want to hibernate. I don’t have the luxury of sitting around and doing nothing, though, so I needed to find my inspiration again. I needed to pull myself out of this rut. I’ve compiled ideas for how to re-motivate yourself when you, too, are feeling uninspired. I’ve been practicing many of these myself in hopes of getting my drive back. For the most part I’ve been quite successful and I hope it can help others as well.

How to pull yourself out of a rut and find inspiration:

  • Start your day off on a positive note. I have been meditating every morning, usually during my daily pumping session, with the help of the Headspace app. Incorporate meditation (or prayer or journaling) into your morning routine. Make it an essential step as you get ready for the day. If I miss this, I do it in the evening before bed to help with sleep.
  • Exercise. While I am not back into my 4-5 workouts a week like I used to be, I am committing to at least one workout class a week for now. Even starting slowly like I am can have a big impact on your mood.
  • Make sure you’re drinking enough water. Everything feels wrong with the world when you neglect such an essential staple from your daily consumption.
  • Incorporate self-care into your daily routine. Find one way that you can take care of yourself every day, whether it’s the morning meditation, repainting your nails, scheduling an appointment you need, or taking a long bath.
  • Attend an inspiring event, such as a book tour event, motivational speech or a charity event.
  • Listen to motivational podcast or audiobook (or read a book). I am always inspired by reading about others’ personal development journeys.
  • Treat yourself. I did this recently by buying postpartum clothes that make me feel more put together and confident.
  • Make yourself a higher priority. Stop putting yourself last.
  • Take note of your accomplishments. An example of this is making a list of things you have gotten done today or this week vs. only writing down things you need to do.
  • Make gratitude lists (daily or weekly). Remind yourself what you have to be inspired by.
  • Take a social media break or check out different channels that inspire rather than cause feelings of lack.
  • Declutter your home and simplify. Excess causes me anxiety, as do messes.
  • Volunteer for a cause you care about. I used to make this a monthly activity, and I admit I haven’t been doing it lately. It’s a goal for the upcoming months to volunteer.
  • Network with people in your field or interest. Their excitement and passion can rub off on you.
  • Redecorate a space in your home, whether it’s the holidays or just giving it a refresh.

I hope any of these ideas can help you find your inspiration again. Have you ever felt like you were in a rut?

Related post:

How to improve your confidence

 

What I Really Want for Christmas | My Wish List

** This post contains affiliate links. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.

I realize that people seemingly only want gift guides nowadays, but today I want to be a little selfish and share my honest Christmas wish list. This comes from the perspective of a work-from-home mom of two who wants to get back into fitness like she used to be. It’s been an interesting year. Anyway there’s only one thing I want for Christmas, and that’s a night of uninterrupted sleep. Seriously.

That is what I really want. But if I can’t have that, I’d like:

  • A massage. This is always and forever on any wish list I create, from now on.
  • Yoga classes. I used to practice yoga frequently and even became a certified yoga teacher, but I have abandoned my regular practice in the past couple of years. I want to bring it back into my life.
  • A new yoga mat. I realized that I have used the same yoga mat for five years now and it needs to be replaced. I would ideally like an eco-friendly option.
  • A yoga towel. The yoga studio I’ve been practicing at offers hot yoga, which I had never tried until recently. I thus now need a yoga towel to avoid having to rent one.
  • Bath bombs. Nighttime baths have become a part of my self-care routine, and I love to be extra with bath bombs and candles.

What’s on your Christmas or holiday wish list? Anything you have your eye on?

Related posts:

Subscription, membership and experience gifts
Thoughtful gifts to buy on Etsy

Shop Yoga Gifts**:

 

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The Coziest Gift You’ll Ever Give

** This post is sponsored by Isotoner but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Hibernation season is upon us here in the Chicago area, and I’m all about being cozy and warm at all times as we approach the holidays. While I completely believe in getting dressed and ready for the day, I do like to keep my feet comfortable as I get my daily work done and care for my family. I want to share that same gift of comfort with my friends and family this holiday season, so I’m continuing one of my annual traditions: Giving away pairs of Isotoner slippers as gifts!

Fun fact: I have given at least one pair of Isotoner slippers to loved ones every single year. Why? I know firsthand how cozy and soft Isotoner slippers are to wear because I’ve owned several pairs over the years. Isotoner’s signature 360 Surround Comfort™ technology keeps your feet snug and warm while you prepare for the holidays  — and every day. Whether you’re prepping a holiday meal, wrapping gifts, playing with your kids or pets, or decorating, you can feel relaxed and comfortable as you move about, and that gift will last all year long. I plan to wear my slippers to keep my cozy for our annual family Cookie Day, gift wrapping and for breakfast on Christmas morning, among many other upcoming moments.

 

I wear them when having breakfast with and getting my preschooler ready for the day; while feeding, rocking and playing with my baby; while editing at my desk; and while doing other household tasks throughout the day. Slippers are a must for me because our home has hardwood floors that can be so uncomfortable to walk on barefoot or while wearing only socks, especially when winter hits. Plus, these Isotoner slippers fit like a glove!

 

I have both the Microsuede Marisol Closed Back Slippers and the Women’s Microsuede Basil Hoodback Slippers, which are both available in various colors.

 

If you’d like to grab a pair of Isotoner 360 Surround Comfort™ slippers for yourself or to gift a family member or friend, check out Isotoner!

Have you experienced the comfort of Isotoner slippers?

Postpartum Clothing Haul | Fall & Winter

** This post contains affiliate links. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.

After decluttering most of my wardrobe during the nesting phase of pregnancy, I was not left with much to wear during the fall and winter at seven months postpartum. I wanted to buy some basics that I could wear for the colder season here in Chicago while I’m essentially in hibernation mode. I never go too crazy with shopping, and this haul is a lot for me to purchase at once, but I needed clothes to boost my self-esteem and help me feel more like a person and not a “mombie.”  I’m sharing some of my finds because many of them might be on sale for Black Friday, plus they were already affordable.

My fall/winter postpartum clothing haul:

  • Cozy pullover sweater: I bought this one in the Wine color, but it also comes in many other options. It’s super soft and comfortable. It’s not itchy at all!

  • Long-sleeve top with back cutout: I just wanted a soft, basic top that I can pair with any bottoms I have and/or a vest. I want to buy this in another color as well.
  • Faux fur sweater vest: This is the coziest sweater vest with pockets and a hood. It was affordable at about $22. I have been wearing it nonstop! (This color is sold out but it comes in gray and black, too.)

  • Black midrise skinny jeans. Black jeans are a staple in my wardrobe. These are a good length for me and they are comfortable enough to wear every day. (I bought them in short.) Note: I also purchased Universal Thread jeggings, but I’m not sure I recommend them, because they stretch too much throughout the day, or maybe I needed to size down.
  • Cozy open cardigan:  This is the softest cardigan, and I wear it frequently. I picked the light gray color, which goes with just about anything I have. (It’s on sale for a limited time for $20.)

  • Pajama set: I’ve been feeling so frumpy in my mismatched T-shirt and comfy pants to go to bed. Now I feel more put together and this set is soft and cute. (I prefer shorts to sleep in because I run hot.) My friend was also kind enough to gift me a second pajama set that comes with a nursing top. The pants are so lightweight and soft.
  • Scallop sleeve sweater: It’s flattering and soft, but I wish the sleeves were full length. I bought it in gray so it can match just about everything.

 

Shop my haul**:

Click the image to shop my picks.

 

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Shop Target Black Friday** (Nov. 23, 2018):

Why You Should Do Things Alone

** This post contains affiliate links. I am compensated for purchases made through this link at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Floradise!

Shop my vest, which is only $21.97, here!

Whether it’s because I could not find anyone available to go with me or because I wanted to go alone, I have done many things by myself throughout the years. One example was this week when I attended Michelle Obama’s Becoming book tour kickoff in Chicago on a solo night out. I originally asked a friend to go with me, but I wasn’t able to find two tickets together and decided to just go for it when a single ticket popped up in my search results. I asked on my Instagram stories whether my friends would go to a big event or concert on their own as well, and I found that more than a third of respondents said they would not. I get it, but I want to share reasons why doing activities alone is good for you, in my opinion.

Activities I have done alone:

  • John Legend concert
  • Movies
  • Dabble.co classes
  • Baseball games
  • Races
  • Major public events, like the Arizona Centennial celebration

Reasons to do things alone:

  • You’re not really alone. I was in a stadium of thousands of mostly women who clearly had common interests as me. Just because you don’t personally know them doesn’t mean there isn’t a great deal of love and respect in the room. I could feel it and see it in all the smiling faces.
  • You can make friends.
  • Growth happens when you’re uncomfortable.
  • You can avoid distractions. Oftentimes when we are with friends we are so wrapped up in conversation that we miss some of what is happening. When you are alone you observe things you might have missed.
  • You can spend time with your thoughts.
  • Attend on your own terms. Leave whenever you want. Eat wherever you want beforehand. You get to decide without compromise.

Do you enjoy doing things alone? Of course, spending time with friends and family doing activities you enjoy is also fun, but if you haven’t already, I encourage you to break out on your own once in a while. You might learn something new about yourself.

Shop my vest**:

 

Related post:

Free or low-cost self-care

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Using Tailwind’s Hashtag Finder 2.0 to Improve Instagram Engagement

**This post is sponsored by Tailwind but all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Floradise!

 

Like many bloggers, I have been struggling with the algorithm changes and fluctuating engagement on my social posts, especially on Instagram. The hashtags that had been working for me previously were not longer connecting me to my audience, for whatever reason. I was thrilled to learn that Tailwind, which I was already using for Pinterest, offers an improved tool to help find the best hashtags for Instagram. The Hashtag Finder 2.0 is super easy to use.

What’s better about Tailwind’s Hashtag Finder 2.0?

  • You get a fresh selection of hashtags for every post.
  • Hashtag suggestions now appear and refresh as you type.
  • You can quickly dismiss the hashtags that aren’t quite right and see new options. You can click shuffle (icon with two arrows) to get a fresh batch of hashtags.
  • Hover over any hashtag to see how popular it is and quickly pick the best hashtags for you.

From the dashboard, select your Tailwind for Instagram profile, and then start a new draft. I uploaded an image, typed a caption, and immediately hashtags would pop up. They were color coded based on whether they were niche, good, best or competitive. That helps you choose the best hashtags possible for each post. It also counted the hashtags for you so you know when you hit 30. Once you have your hashtags, you can click next and schedule the post. I set a reminder to hit my phone, at which point I copied the caption and hashtags and downloaded the image I wanted to post. It was super easy to post and will help change up your Instagram hashtags.

You can also save lists of your hashtags for later so you don’t have to repeat the same process each time, unless you want to!

 

I already used Tailwind for Pinterest but I gave the Hashtag Finder 2.0 a try during the free trial. I plan to upgrade to the Pro now that I’ve tested this tool for weeks. Click my affiliate link to give the Hashtag Finder 2.0 a try! If you’re looking for something to help you simplify your Instagram posting process, this is the tool for you.

How do you find the best hashtags? Have you tried Tailwind for Instagram and the Hashtag Finder 2.0?

Related post:

Using the Erin Condren Notes Page for Blogging

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Adelina’s 7-Month Update

Every baby update I’ve read starts with disbelief about the child growing so quickly. You can go ahead and insert that statement here about Addi.  As of today she is 7 months old! She’s so much closer to 1 now and I can’t handle it. I haven’t posted an update since she was 4 months old, so I wanted to share a bit about how she’s doing now.

Sleep: Addi is still waking up at least three times a night. We clearly have not successfully sleep trained. Her naps improved, at least. She has been sleeping in her crib for a few months now. She has started rolling over and sleeping on her tummy occasionally, which sometimes wakes her up and sometimes helps her sleep better.

Feeding: She is now eating solids! We are sticking with purees for now, and she’s had apples, pears, peas, green beas, sweet potato, carrot, mango, peach, pineapple, blueberry, mac and cheese with veggies, yogurt, avocado, spinach, butternut squash and banana. She hasn’t had any bad reactions to any of those and she has devoured all of her meals. Feeding is more fun now that it’s more than just a bottle or breastfeeding.

Stats: At her 6-month appointment she weighed 17.75 pounds and measured 26 inches long. She was able to get her first flu shot, too. She is in 6-9 month or 9 month clothes and wears Size 3 diapers.

Highlights:

She is sitting on her own.

She is still babbling constantly.

She seems to want to crawl, but mostly she scoots, lunges herself forward or rolls around the floor.

She doesn’t mind being on her stomach anymore. She used to hate it but now she immediately rolls over when she is set down.

She still smiles and laughs constantly. She is a happy baby overall.

She loves to drink water from her sippy cup.

She protests when mom and dad walk away.

She loves to smile and play with her sister.

She places her hand on mine when I say high-five.

She loves to splash around during bath time.

She’s constantly grabbing her feet.

She doesn’t have teeth yet but we think they are coming soon.

 

That’s it for today’s update. I’ll share another as she gets a bit older and we have hit more milestones. Do you have a kiddo(s)? Share a fun update in the comments!

Shop her milestone blanket**:

** This post contains affiliate links. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Floradise!

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Related post:

Flying With a 2-Month-Old Baby
Adelina’s 4-Month Update

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Time-Saving Tips

** This post contains affiliate link. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Floradise!

Time is a precious commodity right now. Well, let’s face it, it always has been, but especially now with two kids, a full-time job and blogging. I’ve been focusing on finding ways to spend my time more intentionally lately and I want to share some of what’s been working for me.

Ways to save time:

  • Sign up for subscriptions for things you buy all the time, especially if there’s a discount. I have a subscription for diapers that I set to ship every four weeks so that I don’t even need to think about it.
  • Prioritize and then use time blocking for similar tasks. I do this for cleaning and blogging, but it can work for any aspect of your life. I put off cleaning certain parts of the house until I have a free window of time and try not to stress about not it.
  • Declutter and shop less. The less stuff you have, the less time you spend maintaining, cleaning and organizing it. Too much of our time is spent putting things away or trying to find our stuff.
  • Simplify your time commitments. Analyze whether you can cut back on activities. Is there anything you can cancel?
  • Outsource tasks if you can afford it. Or divide and conquer with time blocking or with other people in your household. Graham and I do this with household tasks or even with taking care of both girls. He might get V ready for bed, for example, while I get A to sleep.
  • Meal plan or cook easy meals. I am not a meal planner but of course it can save time during the week. I choose to save time by simplifying my meals so I’m not spending more than 20 minutes preparing dinner. I have tried a meal delivery service in the past and enjoyed it.
  • Use services like Shipt when needed. Maybe shopping this week is the task you need to outsource. I’ve recently been using Shipt to order essentials from stores like Target. You can order from other stores as well. I have used Shipt several times in the past months and it’s been a life saver, especially when Graham would take the car to work but I needed some things from the store. (We are a single car household.) You can search for the items you need or put in a spcial request if you don’t see it online. Once your cart is complete, you select an available one-hour time window for delivery. A shopper then claims your delivery and you receive a text from him/her. While shopping, he or she might send a text if an item is not in stock. The shopper can select a substitution with your permission, or you can skip that item. Then he or she checks out and lets you know he or she is on the way. Easy! My drivers have been courteous and so friendly. I was carrying the baby, so they set my items on my table or counter for me. A tip is not required but is always appreciated. (You can add it online once you rate the shopper afterward.) By the way, Shipt is available in 170 cities and counting. Also, my membership was free for six months with a promotion at a store and shipping is free with orders over $35. I only order if I need that much.

Try Shipt**:

 

Click the image to sign up for Shipt.

 

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