Becoming pregnant was such an special time for us. If you're also expecting, congratulations! You’ve likely taken the time and considerations in mind and have decided to expand your family. You're entering an exciting new chapter. Whether this is your first or a third child, you have so much to look forward to and celebrate. Pregnancy (and becoming pregnant) can be difficult for some and easy for ... Read more
Having A Baby: 4 Things To Consider
Congratulations! You are having a baby, arguably the most fulfilling moment of your life. However, there is so much to think about and plenty to consider when bringing a new life into the world that you might be overlooking something. I'm sharing things to consider when having a baby to keep you and your partner on track and ensure your baby arrives with no hiccups. 1. Child care Not every ... Read more
Smart Tips to Help You Study Effectively For Your Exams
According to research by the University of California, 33% of the students felt they didn't know how to sit down on their own and study. When you take into consideration the many distractions presented to students outside of the classroom, this doesn’t sound too surprising. However, throughout your life, you may need to study for something. Do you have trouble concentrating while learning? Below ... Read more
My Thoughts on Mel Robbins’ Start Here Podcast
**This post about Mel Robbins' Start Here podcast contains affiliate links. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Floradise! I came across Mel Robbins' Start Here podcast last week when searching for a new Audible listen. The podcast is an Audible Original, meaning it's exclusive to Audible. So far there are 13 episodes ... Read more
3 Tips For Breaking Through the Winter Blues
While many of us appreciate the festive traditions at the end of December - and the time off work that comes with them, too - we’re also acutely aware of what January can bring. Once holiday and New Year celebrations have been completed and the decorations come down, it’s another year before you can do it all again.This is why many of us experience the winter blues. With the evenings still ... Read more
My Experience as a Poll Worker in the 2020 Election
I have wanted to be a poll worker for many years, but the task seemed daunting. Election workers in many states have to work long shifts, from 5 a.m. until after polls close, usually after 7 p.m. This year I was finally motivated to sign up given the need for poll workers during the pandemic. The process to become an election judge began with an application. I have to credit Power the Polls, which ... Read more
Be Patient and Kind in Remote Learning
School has been back in session for almost two weeks now. It's eye-opening and challenging for everyone involved. Whether your child is in school or remote learning, we need to have patience with each other, especially with teachers and ourselves. There is a lot being placed on their shoulders right now. In addition to teaching often larger classes, teachers have also become tech support. The ... Read more
Celebrating 5 Years of Living in Chicago
** This post about living in Chicago is sponsored by Zumper. All opinions are my own. It's hard to believe that G and I have lived in the Chicago area for half a decade now. We had no idea what our new adventure would bring when we moved from Arizona to Chicago in 2015, but we are so grateful we took the leap. It's definitely changed our lives. I'm reflecting on some of what I've learned ... Read more
Things I Did During Quarantine
Maybe I just hallucinated a pandemic. That's how it feels when I continue distancing while others are enjoying the reopening by going to restaurants or hosting parties. I am still living that semi-quarantined life and don't really know when that will end. I've been reflecting on the various stages of quarantine I've experienced since March. First it began with anxiety. Lots and lots of anxiety. I ... Read more
Finding the Joy During Social Isolation
In the first few weeks of social distancing, I was panicked, stressed and, frankly, depressed. I could not wrap my mind around what was happening. I was in denial about the changes we would have to make in the coming months. I told myself then that I would not force myself to be productive. I read a tweet that offered an important reminder: You are in a pandemic while still trying to work. It ... Read more