Julieverse

Zen Fashion

2013-05-24T16:31:38Z

Inspired by posting about a Zen Dream room this morning: a room that promotes healthy, relaxing living, I’m in a mood for comfort today. So I’m stepping out of the accessorize and get dressed for seeing people mode and focusing on the days when we really do want to relax and enjoy me-time. Those days when a can’t-put-it-down book is calling your name, or sitting on the patio sipping cucumber-infused water with your feet up, listening to a relaxing fountain or the birds chirping is the only thing you can think of doing.

When a spa robe isn’t enough, here are two Zen-like looks.

Creating a healthy and relaxing environment

2013-05-24T16:09:40Z

Do you ever (often?) dream of a new home? Or, maybe, of keeping your home as it is but making a few major tweaks and alterations to make it a dream home? You do, right? I mean, I see you on Pinterest, right? I love my home. I often say that, if I could, I’d move it to somewhere with a bit more land and privacy. A bigger garage. A fifth bedroom.

This week, I had an assignment to design a dream relaxation room–a place to help de-stress and promote health and wellness. Spa, anyone? As a part of the #RoomtoBreathe ambassador program with SHARP for SHARP PCI’s Air Purifier, I’ve been sent a collection of gifts to promote a relaxing and healthy room. As I’ve worked to create this me-time room, I’m noticing that I’ve been inspired by these gifts.

{This is a sponsored post.}

I suppose a perfect relaxation room would be very different for you than it would be for me. We all, likely, have our own exact definition of “relax.” For some, that means sleeping. Others run to relax. I’ve heard of people who want nothing more than to relax in front of the TV (that’s not me.)

I found a fun room design tool through BHG and played around with it for a bit to create my dream room. My room would be rather simple, with a small entry hallway and a pair of chairs at a big angled corner window. These would be the talking chairs. For those big talks with my daughter or sons, when they have questions about life, or just want to chat. Or for those dreadful times when they’re caught doing something they shouldn’t… I want a spot to sit where we can talk comfortably and privately. The little table in between the chairs is a Chinese Garden Stool.

The empty wall would actually be a row of windows with a beautiful view beyond. The windows would have sheer curtains that were, usually, pulled out of the way so that I could sip tea (iced or hot… weather depending) or vegetable or citrus infused water and take it all in. The windows might even be large French doors that would open onto a small quiet patio with 2 small chairs and a table — an extension of the room. And that outdoor area would have a small fountain (I’ve never had one before, but SHARP sent one as a gift for the #RoomtoBreathe promotion and that’s just where it belongs.)

The large oval rug would be some magical reversible type. On one side would be a yoga mat, for stretching in the mornings (hey, this is a dream room, right?) and the other side would be a shag-style dust-repelling carpet with memory foam on the bottom. Something I’d just dream about walking on barefoot every day.

The chaise lounge I already have! It’s in my living room and it’s so bulky. My husband often suggests we put it out for bulk pick-up and invest in smaller pieces in there, but I love curling up with a good book on that chair.

Of course, there are bookshelves. Lined with volumes of books I’ve read and memorabilia. In fact, there are books piling on the side table, too. We might even have to buy another bookshelf, just to hold all the books I’ve read. (Sure, I use my Kindle now, but we’re designing, so I can imagine. Plus, memorabilia!)

The entry hall wall would be collaged with framed pictures of my children and paintings they’ve created through the years. (I really do have a plan for that, so, score!) Something like this but different frames. Oh! I love the little shelf created with moulding in this room. Let’s put that in the room.

Notice the house plants? Those are Areca Palms–low maintenance and allergy free. We have one now in our kitchen (though I’m considering moving it to our master bath) that was a gift from SHARP to help create a healthy home setting.

And there’s fresh air. We recently installed SHARP’s PCI Air Purifier in Middle’s room and I love how crisp and clean the air is in there–that would definitely be a requirement for this relaxation room. It would help to keep the air clean as it maintains ideal humidity levels to help relieve dryness and sinus issues (especially with the French Doors that would be open and the big rug and cloth chaise lounge.) (Bonus — and why I love it — it automatically detects, displays and reacts with it’s smart controls–so it works harder when it knows it needs to, like this past week when the pollen levels were super high. All I had to do was add water when the light was blinking.) Have I mentioned the other rooms in my house are jealous of Middle’s room?

Why is this my dream room?

This is my own, personal oasis. I have everything I’d need for a day off–or even thirty minutes off. Notice there are no “electronics”? That’s something we all need. A chance to take a break and get away. I’ve also left some space open. Perhaps one of my kids needs a break, then he can come in, bring a bean bag chair, curl up on the rug or the lounge. Or maybe I’d host a Mother-Child game night on the big rug. I’d even let my husband share the room. There’s space for whatever comfort chair if he wants (I’m pretty sure that’s his leather chair that he loves.)

There’s space to exercise (and by exercise, I mean stretch–this room doesn’t allow for sweating.) I’d even give myself special permission to bring in an iPad to help guide the stretching.

Pinterest Zen Room

I never really use the word “Zen,” never really thought about how it works in my life before. But, today, being totally focused on it while I work on this dream room, I’ve worked on a relaxing Pinterest board just in case I ever have a chance to create this room. It will have Clean Air Soy Candles (another gift from the SHARP program) and a little basket that holds my UGG Slippers. Check out my many inpsirations that help to define this post on my Pinterest Zen/Relaxation Dream Room board.

Join the #RoomtoBreathe conversation

Are you in a dream place, too? Did you create your own pinterest board? (If so, link it in the comments so I can pin some of your images to my board!) Learn about other ideas for relaxing and breathing healthy on the SHARP Room to Breathe Facebook page and follow @SharpAirUSA on twitter.

Why I vlog: #VlogMom

2013-05-23T12:08:14Z

This week, in anticipation of next month’s #VlogMom relaunch (woohoo!) I asked everyone to share their thoughts on Vlogging (video blogging):

Why do you Vlog? OR Tips for a successful video/vlog OR challenges you face vlogging OR how VlogMom has helped you.

Here’s where I get all blubbered and silly, but try to answer my own question:

Can’t see the video (it’s embedded in the blog but email readers can’t see it), click here to view on YouTube.

But, really, I want to know why you vlog, or if you like vlogging, or if you enjoy watching videos on blogs? Share in the comments or link up your reply.

Why do you vlog (Video Blog)? #VlogMom

2013-05-22T16:20:52Z

In anticipation of the #VlogMom relaunch next month (yay! Spirit fingers! Massive applause!) I’m prepping tomorrow’s #VlogMom topic over here. I want to hear from all of you out there. Those who blog, those who do video, those you laugh at the idea of video, those who are shy, those who read and those who watch and, even, those who say “what on Earth is a VLOG?”

What is so great about video? Do you watch it? Do it? Do you love it? Hate it? How do you feel when you see a video posted on your favorite websites? Do you rush to click it or do you ignore it?

Tell me, tell me, tell me…

and then tell me more. Please.

Sesame Place Is Open for Summer: review and upcoming events

2013-05-22T15:14:52Z

This year, I asked a friend, Rachel, to take her family to Sesame Place and report back on her visit. I love her story and how she compares it to Sesame Place of the 80s. Things have changed! (We were provided with four complimentary tickets to opening day at Sesame Place.) The park opens today, May 22, 2013, for the summer; specials are listed below.

With the temperature starting to creep up, the kids can feel the end of school approaching… or maybe they can start to read my “Summer Activities” excel spreadsheet for the endless 2 ½ month period that the smmer has to offer. With a 6-year-old son and 4-year old daughter, Sesame Place wasn’t high on my list this year. But when we started chatting with the kids about what they wanted to do, low and behold, it was Sesame Place at the top of their list!

Sesame Place has changed quite a bit since it opened in 1980. My family used to make the trip from New York to Langhorne, PA, annually. I would suggest, as we did back then, an overnight trip for any car ride over 2 hours as the kids will be wiped out. And that is one of the greatest changes since the 80s—purchasing a regular-priced “Elmo Ticket” at $59.99 will get you a second day free. (It better get you something at $60 a pop for anyone over 2 years old!) So whether staying overnight if coming from afar or being able to visit more than once because you live close, you score with a “buy one, get one” chance here, too.

Is Sesame Place too babyish? Not really…

Now on our 1-hour car ride, my 6-year-old was quiet. He had been so animated. When we bugged him, we found out he was concerned that Sesame Place was too babyish. (“Ouch,” said my heart, as his happy-go-lucky days are numbered.)

Honestly, Sesame Place is geared more for the littler kids. However, one glance through the Opening Day crowded lines, and the whir of the roller coaster allayed any concerns of this amusement park being too babyish. Hands up during the ride; cheeks aching from smiling; throats sore by the end. That was no baby ride! Throw in a few killer water slides, and other high-flying airplanes and swings, and you’ll find enough for the big ones, too.

The Shows at Sesame Place

Everyone loves their first Elmo and Friends show. But even by the second one of the day, our big one was busy reading the map to find out what was next. The little one – she had enough energy to sing and dance her way to the top of every bleacher at every single show. It never got old for her!

The food at Sesame Place

Rest assured that they have changed the eateries. too! Mind you they still sell overpriced kid meals with souvenir cups and plates, but starting this season, Sesame Place will open Elmo’s Lunch Box Stop, which offers box lunches that can be purchased on-line in advance. It is also adding a food truck to its street, giving guests an even greater variety of quick-dining choices. Many of the current eateries will often lighter choices for those interested, and you can even bring a small cooler in with your favorite snacks and drinks, if you prefer.

Things to remember for Sesame Place

Don’t forget to throw in some sunblock, too – nothing is shaded at the park.

One other tip…while we did have a glorious weather day, “Sunny Day Tickets” are issued if it rains continuously for one hour while a guest is in the park. Check the specifics on the day of your visit should this happen to you, but for a nervous mom, here’s one little piece of security.

More Sesame Place ticket ways to save

And finally, if you are going for just one day, save up to $20 visiting participating locations for discount coupons. For example, in NY and PA: RiteAid, Wawa and even McDonalds.

Thanks to Sesame Place for the tickets!

Upcoming Events at Sesame Place

This Sunday, Memorial Day Sunday, don’t miss the ALL NEW fireworks show, set to Sesame Street music! Rock out with Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster and Count von Count, as their music fills the air and the sky is covered with colorful bursts of brilliance. Fireworks will begin at 9:00pm. Sunday only.

LAURIE BERKNER IS COMING JUNE 1-2: Best-selling, award-winning children’s recording artist Laurie Berkner has been a professional musician for 20 years. Get ready to sing and dance with Laurie Berkner when she takes The You & Me Tour to Sesame Place June 1-2!

Introducing Curious.com: join me on twitter on May 22 at 9 EST

2013-05-20T15:46:30Z

Last week, I was asked to participate in a sponsored Pinterest Party for Curious.com. What a creative way to introduce me (and everyone else) to this new platform of information. I jumped right in, finding video lesson after video lesson and learning more and more. Curious.com hosts hundreds (and is working towards thousands) of brief videos that teach everything from lessons in video to lessons in knitting to lessons in cooking, cutting and developing.

This is a sponsored post.

About three videos in, I was hooked. In fact, when my 9-year-old son came downstairs, he quickly became hooked (and he was, surprisingly, taken by a video on how to write an essay.)

The lessons on Curious follow the same format as the “how to” presentations we were taught to do in school. Step-by-step, they explain the best way to do things, making your life and learning, easier… especially those of us who are visual learners. The follow a true lesson format–pausing with quizzes that check to make sure you’re paying attention. (My son loved the quizzes.)

Twitter Party with Curious.com

Want to play around and learn more? This week, I’m hosting a (sponsored) Curious.com twitter party. Join me and the other chatty hosts as we share some of our favorite lessons and tips we’re discovering on Curious.com.

When: May 22, 2013, 9-10 PM EST
Where: Twitter, with the hashtag #iamcurious
Prizes: iPad mini, $50 gift card and more!
RSVP: below

Rafflecopter giveaway

If you’re using evite to host an event or have received an invitation, confirm the times

2013-05-20T21:04:25Z

This weekend, I sent a confused text message to a friend:

I’m confused. The evite says 4:30 pm, but you mentioned 1:30? What time does it start?

She responded that she double checked evite and that it says “1:30.” She also probably wondered what could possibly be wrong with me.

So, I took a quick screen shot of my iPhone app, showing the 4:30 party time. Something was up. I checked the settings on the app–there was no way to change my time zone. Next, I asked on facebook if anyone knew how to change the time zone setting–or if anyone else had a similar problem. As it turned out, I wasn’t the only one experiencing problems.

Friends had recently missed parties and events because their apps reported off times. In fact, the friend who I texted earlier that day, had someone else show up at her house at 4:30, expecting the party to start.

Uh-oh, evite. What’s going on?

Evite’s response:

Thank you so much for your patience. We have been made aware of this issue and are quickly working to correct it. We have removed the editing functionality on the app at this time while we work on the app’s features and correct these issues, which should be resolved as soon as next week. Currently, if you are the host, you may Send a Message to your guests to let them know of the correct time. As the guest, we would recommend accessing the full site to view the correct time. We apologize for this inconvenience.

Probably the only thing worse than missing an event (or showing up late) is hosting an event where several people have the wrong time. Do yourself a favor, if you’re hosting an event this week, send a message to your attendees, confirming the time. And if you’re planning to attend a party that you’ve been evited to, ask what time the party actually begins.

Please, share this post on facebook and twitter so you don’t miss a party.

Creating Change: Giving, Voting, Reaching Schools #TeachersChangeLives

2013-05-20T17:51:07Z

Having worked in the public school trenches, I get it. I get how the supply closet is grossly under-stocked and how a $50 stipend, per classroom teacher, is never enough to meet the needs of a successful classroom. I look at teachers’ classroom needs (tissue boxes, paints, a carpet for first grade circle time, a pencil sharpener, portfolio and file folders, writing paper, journals…) and sigh. Loudly. Because all of these things should already be in a classroom.

Tomorrow, in Pennsylvania, is Election Day. In our local school district there is a heated campaign to fill 4 school board director spots. The number one concern is taxes and cutbacks versus spending carefully to help our children succeed. (Yes, that is a completely biased summary and you can guess on which side of the fence I sit.)

This is a sponsored post.

As governments sit back and take more and more away from the schools, teachers and, yes, the students (you know–the purpose of the schools), it’s encouraging that there are people and companies taking steps to help fill the financial void in education. Office Depot, for example, gets schools. They care about teachers and their challenges and strive to help them. Through partnerships like Adopt a Classroom and Office Depot’s Star Teacher program, they’re putting forth an effort to be a primary destination for school essentials–because they’ll support local teachers.

Just last week, I was inside Office Depot, shopping supplies for my kids’ classrooms with an Office Depot gift card (provided for this promotion) and overheard mentions of their promotions–learning how parents and neighbors can join Office Depot to help local classrooms succeed in teaching children.

Office Depot sent me a $100 gift card and a huge and heavy package full of school supplies to donate to my children’s classrooms to help to show their dedication to helping classrooms throughout our country.

How you can join Office Depot and help your local schools to make REAL Change

Parents can register with Office Depot’s charity partner, AdoptaClassroom.org, to participate in the REAL Change Project and be eligible for funding from donors nationwide
Spread the word by using the resources available in the Office Depot Teachers Change Lives tool kit
Make a donation to Adopt a Classroom
If you’re in Pennsylvania, take a few minutes to research those running for local positions and vote for those who support public education advancement–helping teachers to truly help the students to learn.

I am an Office Depot REAL Change blog ambassador. This post is part of a campaign where I was compensated for my time. To learn
more about REAL Change, visit their website.

Meal Plan: end of May (weeks 4 and 5)

2013-05-20T15:01:27Z

Here’s what’s cooking on our menu plan for dinners this week and next.

New to Meal Planning? Read my post How to Meal Plan in 5 Easy Steps on Marie Callender’s Blog and subscribe to the Julieverse daily emails to receive the Menu Plan in your inbox every Monday morning (plus other Julieverse posts each day.)

I had to stop and look at the calendar this morning. Last week, I pre-planned meals for May weeks 3 & 4 and June week 1. But this morning, as I was preparing to post the meal plan it hit me… there are FIVE weeks in May. Well, almost. But it’s a long month.

So glad to have that extra week!

Menu Plan: May week 4

Monday: Turkey Tacos
Tuesday: Chicken and Dill Souvlaki
Wednesday: Honey Apricot Pork Chops
Thursday: leftovers
Weekend: chicken and spring vegetables soup; Memorial Day Weekend parties… lots of grilling goodness

Menu Plan: June week 1

Monday: Penne with Chicken & Asparagus
Tuesday: Creamy Salmon and Leek Pasta
Wednesday: Spinach Enchiladas Verdes
Thursday: leftovers
Weekend: Grilled Steak Salad

Encouragement for Moms

2013-05-17T22:00:49Z

We all go through tough times. Times when we give of ourselves so much that it hurts. Times that we give of ourselves and don’t even realize how much we’ve forgotten ourselves in the process. Times that we need hugs. Times that we need love and support from other moms. And, so often, we don’t know where to turn. For times like those, I’ve asked bloggers to share words of encouragement, in hopes that these words will stick with us now and will guide us later.

This is a sponsored post.

Encouragement for moms on parenting

… do not ever let someone make you feel as if your gut instinct as a parent is an overreaction or a case of helicopter parenting. -Found the Marbles

…If you and the doctor disagree about [an] answer? Say so. If you can’t say something like that to your doctor? You have the wrong doctor. -Dr. Deborah Gilboa, featured in an interview on Found the Marbles

It gets easier. -Musings of a Housewife

Encouragement for moms on Education

Envision yourself as an equal partner in the education of your child – your observations of your child outside of school are just as important as what we are observing you child doing in school. -Diapered Knights

Encouragement for new moms

You can never hold your baby too much. -No Sleep til College

Because that’s the funny thing about love: it takes time. Love grows, slowly but surely, in the hidden places, almost undetected. -Confessions of a Stay at Home Mom

Sign yourself up for programs, lessons or join a professional group. -A Life in Balance

Live in the moment. Embrace the New Life. It will become your New Normal more quickly than you think. -Confessions of a Stay at Home Mom

All of it ends. And then it starts again…as something else. -A Parenting Production

Encouragement for moms on life

We cannot change the cards we are dealt. We can only change how we play the hand. -A Day in Our Shoes

If you’ve traveled on an airplane, you’ve been given the instructions to put your own oxygen mask on first, should the need arise. -Womb to World Wellness

Be gentle on yourself. Embrace the season you’re in. -A Life in Balance

Schedule a GNO (Girls Night Out). And DON’T. FEEL. BAD. ABOUT. IT. -Confessions of a Stay at Home Mom

My sanity is much more important than unattainable perfection. -Mama Dweeb

The truth is I have no illusions that it will get easier, I just know it will get different. -West Philly Mama

Johnson’s Baby CARES Care Cards help support and encourage moms

In celebration of Mother’s Day this year, JOHNSON’S® Baby has established JOHNSON’S® Baby CARES Care Cards, a digital e-card platform encouraging moms to share positive messages of encouragement with other moms across the country, while simultaneously supporting Save the Children®. You can help, too! Simply pick and share a card filled with messages of reassurance for a Mom in your life on Facebook at http://www.johnsonsbabycares.com.

For every card sent, shared or liked, JOHNSON’S® Baby will donate $1.00 to Save the Children® (up to $150,000) to benefit early childhood education programs that foster education and reassurance for new moms. These cards will not only spread encouragement to Moms throughout the country but will also provide Moms in need with the skills and knowledge to successfully support their child’s growth.

This post is sponsored by the J&J For All You Love campaign, in cooperation with The Motherhood.