Family Meals Made Easy: 20 U.S. Chain Restaurants That Offer Delicious Family Meals

As a busy mom juggling work, school, and extracurricular activities, and taking care of the house, I know how challenging it can be to get a wholesome meal on the table every night. That's why I love finding restaurants that offer family meal deals. They save us time, money, and the stress of planning and cooking dinner. Today, I'm sharing 20 popular U.S. chain restaurants that offer fantastic family meal deals. These are perfect for those nights when you need a break or want to treat the family without breaking the bank. 

1. Olive Garden

Olive Garden offers "Family-Style Meals" with large portions of your favorite pastas, salad, and breadsticks. Perfect for an Italian comfort food night! 

2. Panda Express

Their "Family Feast" includes three large entrees and two sides. Generous portions and a variety of choices make it a hit with everyone, including picky eaters.

3. Boston Market

Boston Market's "Family Meal" features a whole rotisserie chicken, your choice of sides, and cornbread. It's a hearty, home-style meal without the hassle. 

4. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A’s "Family Meal Bundle" comes with 30 chicken nuggets, multiple sides, and dipping sauces. Quick, easy, and always a family favorite. 

5. Cracker Barrel

Cracker Barrel’s "Family Meal Baskets To-Go" offer choices like fried chicken, meatloaf, and chicken and dumplings, complete with sides and biscuits. It’s like having a Southern grandma cook for you! 

6. Red Lobster

Red Lobster’s "Family Meal Deal" includes options like shrimp scampi, grilled chicken, or crab legs, plus sides and their famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits. A seafood lover’s dream!

7. Applebee’s

Applebee’s "Family Bundle Meals" offer riblets, chicken tenders, or pasta options. Each bundle feeds 4-6 people and includes sides and breadsticks.

8. Outback Steakhouse

Outback’s "Family Bundles" feature steak, chicken, or ribs with sides and bread. Enjoying a steakhouse dinner at home has never been easier.

9. Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut’s "Big Dinner Box" includes two medium pizzas, breadsticks, and your choice of pasta or wings. Perfect for a casual pizza night. 

10. Buffalo Wild Wings

Their "Family XL Bundle" comes with 20 wings, fries, and a variety of sauces. Ideal for a fun family game night.

11. The Cheesecake Factory

They offer "Family Meal Deals" with options like pasta, chicken, and seafood dishes, along with their iconic brown bread and butter.

12. TGI Fridays

TGI Fridays’ "Family Meal Boxes" include burgers, chicken, ribs, and sides. It's like bringing the restaurant experience home.

13. Chili’s

Chili’s "Meal for Two" is great for smaller families, featuring fajitas, baby back ribs, or burgers, plus sides and dessert.

14. Panera Bread

Panera’s "Family Feast" offers a choice of sandwiches, salads, and soups, along with bread and cookies. A lighter, yet satisfying option.

15. Buca di Beppo

Known for their large portions, Buca di Beppo’s "Family Meals" include pasta, salad, and bread. Italian night is sorted!

16. Texas Roadhouse

Texas Roadhouse offers "Family Packs" with options like ribs, chicken critters, and pulled pork, plus sides and their famous rolls. A hearty and delicious meal. 

17. Bonefish Grill

Bonefish Grill’s "Family Bundles" include grilled fish, chicken, or shrimp, with sides like garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal veggies. Perfect for a seafood dinner. 

18. P.F. Chang’s

P.F. Chang’s "Family Meal" includes selections like Mongolian beef, Chang’s spicy chicken, and lo mein, plus sides. Enjoy a delicious Asian-inspired meal at home. 

19. Maggiano’s Little Italy

Maggiano’s "Family Style" dining offers classic Italian dishes like lasagna, chicken parmesan, and tiramisu. Great for a special family dinner.

20. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Ruth’s Chris has "Family Meal" options featuring steak, chicken, and seafood, plus sides like mashed potatoes and creamed spinach. A luxurious treat for steak lovers.

These restaurants have been lifesavers for many families, providing delicious meals that are easy on both time and budget. Whether you're craving Italian, American, or Asian cuisine, there's something on this list for every family and every occasion. Be sure to check your local locations for pricing and availablilty. Next time you're in need of a meal solution, give one of these family meal deals a try. 

Safe Gates Help Save Lives – Check Your Pool Gate Month

Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death in children ages 1 – 4 years, with an average of 11 fatal and 22 non-fatal drownings per day. In addition, 70% of child drownings happen during non-swim times. Childrens’ curious nature naturally draws them to the back yard swimming pool, and the majority of children that drown most commonly gain access to the pool area through a faulty fence or gate. The National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA) has developed the 5 layers of protection to help reduce the risk of child drowning. 

The first layer, and most important layer, is a barrier that limits access and an alarm to alert of any unplanned access to the pool area. Fencing provides a barrier that works 24/7, but a fence is only effective if the gate and gate hardware are in good working order – a properly functioning gate can help prevent drownings. Checking the pool gate is vital to drowning prevention, yet only 30% of pool owners check the safety of their pool gate once a year. Recognizing the need to create awareness of this problem and provide education on how to check and maintain a pool gate, D&D Technologies has brought together the NDPA and several non-profit organizations to establish the Check Your Pool Gate Month beginning the first day of May.

Check Your Pool Gate Month was created to remind pool owners of the vital need to ensure pool fences, gates, latches and hinges are secure and in top working order, with the aim to reduce child drownings by making it harder for them to access the pool. Every pool owner should be confident they have a safe swimming zone. For every 1 child that drowns, another 7 experience a non-fatal drowning – 40% of these children require further care. A few minutes is all it takes for pool owners to check their pool fence and gate, and this simple routine done regularly could help save the life of a child.

Safety checklist for pool gates

• Gate should open outwards, away from the pool
• Gate latch release knob should be out of reach of children under 5. (check local codes/standards from minimum requirements
• Fence should be at a minimum height to comply with your region and encompass the pool area. (check local codes/standards for minimum requirements)
• Maximum clearance from finished ground surface is no more than 4” (100mm)
• Fence perimeter must have adequate distance from other climbable objects or structures
• Gate must be self-closing and self-latching
• Gate hinges are reliable, self-closing, tension-adjustable, rust free and bind free
• Gate latch must be adjustable for height and width
• Gate latch cannot be key locked in the “open” positio
• Gate latch cannot be opened using implements or force
• Gate will shut and latch securely from any position, including from resting on the latching mechanism
• Gate complies with all relevant United States Codes/Standards and legislation for pool safety

If new or replacement gate hardware is needed, install products proven over 35 years, the D&D MagnaLatch® safety gate latch and TruClose® safety gate hinge. The MagnaLatch® gate latch and TruClose® gate hinge, invented by D&D Technologies, meet all international and local pool safety codes, as well as fulfill all the safety checklist’s requirements. The MagnaLatch® is a reliable, adjustable and magnetically triggered self-latching safety gate latch. TruClose® are self-closing, adjustable, polymer safety gate hinges. 

The MagnaLatch® ALERT is D&D’s latest pool safety innovation, providing both audible and visual alarms if the gate is left open or not physically latched. Pool owners can see at a glance and hear from a distance if their pool gate is not latched properly.

Together MagnaLatch and TruClose are the world’s most trusted pool safety hardware system, having been installed on gates for over 35 years and saving countless lives.

D&D Technologies gate hardware can be purchased on Amazon or at Home Depot or Lowes. If you cannot fix it call your local contractor to service your gate and ensure the gate is secured while waiting.

For more information on pool safety and compliance visit: https://us.ddtech.com/pages/national-check-your-pool-gate-month-consumer, https://us.ddtech.com/pages/pool-safety-compliance and www.ndpa.org 

For more information on the Layer of Protection visit: https://ndpa.org/layers/

Can a paper bag keeps wasps away?

For so many years now I have seen the paper bag trick that is supposed to keep wasps away. With the weather already well into the upper 80s, the wasps are very active, and they are always hovering near my front door entrance. It is believed that you can place a paper bag resembling a nest in areas where you want to keep them away. Wasps are territorial and tend to avoid areas where they think other colonies are established. The paper bag tricks them into thinking there's already a nest there, so they'll be less likely to build their own nearby.

I don't know what took my so long to test it out to see if it does actually work. I took a paper bag that I got from the liquor store and light stuffed it with plastic grocery bags to make it just poofy enough to resemble a wasps nest. I tied it with some twine and hung it on my deck rail that is closest to my front door. 

Did it work?

I have had it up for a little over a week and have not seen a single wasp on my front porch. I am so shocked because we all literally stay prepared when we get ready to open the front door since they are always out there waiting for us. It has been so nice to be able to feel a little safer to sit out front and not fear a wasp possibly attacking us. I am allergic to the sting, so I am extra worried when I am outside. 

So now my plan is to make another one for my back deck. Actually I might make two since it's more than triple the size of my front deck. Don't get me wrong, I will still have my handy bug zapper racket nearby just is case. One more thing I almost forgot to mention-- the fake wasp nest is also keeping the carpenter bees away as well! Although they are mostly harmless to people, they really can mess up anything that is made of wood by making deep holes in it. They are also a nuisance because of how they fly right up to you like they want to spar or something. Ha! No thanks!

So if you have been wondering if the paper bag trick works, I am here to tell you, YES! I am so happy I did it and will continue to do so forever. Have you tried it before? Thank you so much for stopping by today. 😊

Sensitive stomach? Give Gourmend a try!

So many people worldwide deal with stomach problems, from minor issues to more serious conditions, affecting around 20% to 30% of the population. Some people are especially sensitive to certain foods like garlic and onion bulbs, experiencing discomfort, bloating, and other digestive woes after eating them. This sensitivity can happen for different reasons, like certain enzymes or compounds in garlic and onions that don't agree with everyone's stomachs. So, for those folks, picking what to eat can be a bit of a balancing act to keep their stomachs happy.

If you're one of these people who have a sensitivity to ingesting onion and garlic bulbs, this post is for you. I have a dear friend whose husband is going through cancer treatments, and ended up developing major stomach issues to where he has become very limited on what he can eat. His wife had to find as many low FODMAP recipes as she could to be able to cook nutritious meals that actually taste good. 

Good thing there are seasoning options from Gourmend foods. Gourmend offers seasonings and broths that are low FODMAP-friendly, and are made from natural ingredients. All of their products contain zero fillers, additives and preservatives. They contain no gluten, sugar, dairy, onion bulbs, or garlic bulbs. Another bonus is that they contain limited salt so that you can add salt to suit your taste or dietary needs. 

But, how do they taste? 

Wow, wow, let me tell you-- they taste incredible! I am already coming up with ideas in my head on how I plan to use all of the seasonings. That Garlic Scape Powder is so dang tasty. It has a sort of sweet taste, and then the deep garlic flavor creeps in. The taco seasoning has a good kick and is super flavorful. I love that you can add salt as needed, and really you wouldn't need to add much else when you're cooking your protein for your next Taco Tuesday. I know what I will be using to season my shrimp and chicken this upcoming Cinco de Mayo! 

The Garlic Chive Salt tastes like something I would want sprinkled all over freshy air-fried chicken wings or potato wedges. I need to make that happen! The Green Onion Powder is perfect for everyday seasoning for basically anything you want an onion flavor added. I still have to try out the broths, but I have a feeling they will not disappoint. I'm envisioning a soup with shrimp, baby bok choy, mushrooms and bean sprouts. I will report back when I do give 'em a try. 

Here's some helpful info on Gourmend products 

🐮 Bone Broth 🐔

Our bone broths (beef and chicken) are simmered for 16 hours with free range bones for savory richness. They feature several gut-friendly vegetables and leek and scallion tops replace garlic and onion for that gentle allium deliciousness.

 🌱 Gut-friendly Powders 🌿 

Our 3 original powders: Garlic Scape Powder, Garlic Chive Powder, and Green Onion Powder. Even if you're sensitive to onion and garlic, you can bring those flavors back into your cooking. All of the tastiness, none of the digestive issues.

 🌮 Taco Seasoning 🌮 

Our taco seasoning is a gently delicious blend of single origin ingredients that ramp up any taco night. It features our Garlic Scape and Green Onion Powders as well as several other ingredients that we carefully source from other brands we know and love.

 🥕 Vegetable Broth 🍄 

We worked for 2 years to get our recipe just right for this one. With so few quality vegetable broths on the market, we wanted to make sure this tasted amazing while being easy on digestion. This broth features oyster mushrooms for umami flavor and a host of other fun vegetables.

💚 Salt Blends 🧂 

These salts are made using our unique Garlic Chive and Green Onion Powder along with Californian sea salt.

**As always, none of our products have any fillers or preservatives.

Find out more about Gourmend

Want to try Gourmend products out for yourself? Go to their website, and use code: MOMFILES15 for 15% off your first purchase. 

Disclosure: Gourmend provided product samples for my family to test out, and all opinions are our own. Please note that there are affiliate links in this post. 

Check out the Wellness Collection from Herbaly

Wellness is all about feeling good in every part of your life, from your body to your mind and even your spirit. It's like giving yourself a big ol' hug from the inside out. Whether it's eating yummy, nourishing food, getting some fresh air, or taking time to relax and chill, wellness is just about treating yourself right and finding that balance that makes you feel like a million bucks. 

It's important to include supplements to enhance your overall health and wellness. We do as much as we can to keep our mind and bodies as healthy as possible. No matter how much we consume healthy food and partake in regular exercise, we can still lack certain things. This is where herbal supplements come in to help.

We recently tried out some products from Herbaly including their Wellness Functional Tea, Wellness Iced Tea, Derma Hair, Skin & Nails Complete Plus Biotin Capsules, Organic Stevia Leaf Sweetener, and Wildcrafted Oregano Oil Capsules. 

First up is the Herbaly Wellness Functional Tea. This tea is made from up to 8 carefully selected ingredients and is lightly caffeinated. It's perfect in the afternoon when you need a little pick-me-up. I love the pyramid bags which are compostable. I steep it for about 6-8  minutes since I prefer a stronger tea. It has a nice aroma and tastes light and delicious. 

I brewed up some of the Herbaly Wellness Iced Tea Pitcher Size for my hubby since he is a big iced tea fan. I think the herbs and roots in the tea bag are so pretty. I did the hot water method and really love the color. I brewed the tea bag in a quart of hot water for 10 minutes, then I added another quart of cold water. All you have to do is pour it over ice. There is no need for sweetener since it already has stevia leaf. If you do need it a little sweeter, you can add some Herbaly Organic Stevia Leaf Sweetener to your taste. This sweetener has zero calories and is non-glycemic. 

My husband has been wanting to try out an oregano supplement for some time now since he suffers from chronic pain. Herbaly Wellness Wildcrafted Oregano Oil Capsules is rich in antioxidants, nutrient dense and so convenient for him to take daily. We are hoping this will help ease some of his hip and knee pain. The capsules are not huge, so they are not hard to swallow. He says he does not get any aftertaste or indigestion from them. 

The last item that I tried is the Herbaly Derma Hair, Skin & Nails Complete Plus Biotin Capsules. Now that I am in the 50 club, I have to do what I can to keep my skin, hair and nails healthy. I have noticed after close to two weeks that my nails have improved a whole lot. That in itself is a win for me. I am going to keep taking them daily to hopefully get all of the great benefits over time. 

I am definitely looking forward to eventually trying the Herbaly Heart Turmeric Complete Plus CoQ10 Capsules since I have heart disease in my family. I do have elevated cholesterol levels and would prefer to try an herbal alternative over going on prescribed medication. 

About Herbaly: 

Herbaly is a brand that offers a range of Functional Teas, each carefully crafted to provide a transformative experience and promote well-being.

The Wellness Functional Tea features a balanced blend of natural ingredients such as turmeric root, ginger root, sencha, and dandelion root, each carefully selected for their health benefits. Crafted with 100% natural ingredients, our teas are thoughtfully curated to ensure that you can easily identify and appreciate each component.

With each tea bag generously filled with 2.5 grams of premium ingredients, we're excited to announce that we'll soon be increasing the quantity to 3 grams per bag by this summer. This enhancement will further elevate the extraction of beneficial properties, providing you with an even more rewarding tea experience. Our tea bags are environmentally friendly and compostable, featuring a unique pyramid shape designed to optimize taste and maximize benefits without any added glue.

In addition to our Wellness Functional Tea, we're dedicated to supporting various aspects of wellness, from cardiovascular health to blood sugar levels. Our specialized blends incorporate ingredients like hibiscus, hawthorn, Gymnema, and lavender, known for their potential to promote cardiovascular health by supporting healthy blood pressure and circulation.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links. Many thanks to our brand partner, Herbaly, for providing us with product samples. Thank you so much for stopping by today. 

Atlanta Fashion Week Presents Exclusive Onalaja Trunk Show: A Fusion of African Heritage and Modern Design

Atlanta Fashion Week (ATLFW) is excited to unveil an exclusive fashion trunk show, presenting Onalaja, the renowned contemporary women's wear brand by Kanyinsola Onalaja, creative director and founder. This prestigious event will take place from May 1st to May 5th at Bloomingdale's Lenox Square Mall in Atlanta, GA. The trunk show will span five (5) days, featuring an exclusive preview in a made-to-order format. This trunk show offers attendees a unique chance to be among the first to access and secure distinctive pieces from Onalaja's latest collection, exclusively available at Bloomingdale's Lenox. Moreover, the event promises a grand re-presentation of Onalaja's celebrated maximalist designs, which have captivated fashion lovers, celebrities, and major retailers worldwide.

The event promises an array of brand activations, including:

May 1, 2024 - Private Meet and Greet with Kanyinsola Onalaja, Creative Director and Founder of Onalaja

May 2, 2024 - Runway Fashion Presentation

May 3 - 5, 2024 - Trunk Show at Bloomingdale's Lenox Square

Renowned for its meticulously crafted demi-couture pieces that empower women, Onalaja seamlessly merges her Nigerian heritage with modern design, celebrating femininity and individuality while transcending cultural boundaries. Committed to inclusivity and accessible luxury, Onalaja offers a diverse size range from XXS to XXXXL, ensuring every woman can indulge in its exquisite designs.

Designer Kanyinsola Onalaja, the creative force behind the brand, brings a rich background born in Nigeria and educated in London. She earned her BA in Fashion Design at Istituto Marangoni, and won student of the year. Her accolades earned her a scholarship to pursue a master's degree in womenswear design, which she completed in July 2017.

Since the debut of Onalaja in the US, the brand has garnered recognition from NYFW's Black in Fashion Council, and has been featured in Essence Magazine, Vogue, Business of Fashion and many more. Additionally, Onalaja's stunning designs have adorned Chloe Bailey, Kandi, Porsha Williams, and others at various red carpet events. Onalaja's collections are currently available on leading fashion platforms worldwide, including REVOLVE, Saks Fifth Avenue, Jendaya, Zalando, Frtwn, Cult Mia, The Lotte, FarFetch, and Industrie Africa.

“We are thrilled to bring Onalaja's unique blend of African heritage and modern design to Atlanta,” said Kanyinsola Onalaja, Founder and Creative Director of Onalaja. “Our debut trunk-show at Bloomingdale's Lenox Square Mall is an exciting opportunity to connect with a new audience and share our vision of inclusive and accessible luxury.”

“Atlanta Fashion Week (ATLFW) embodies more than just a fashion showcase; it's a vibrant celebration of diversity, innovation, and creativity,” remarked Angela Watts, founder of Atlanta Fashion Week. “Our partnership with Bloomingdale's underscores our shared ethos of championing myriad perspectives and artistic expressions. This commitment to inclusivity resonates powerfully in today's global market, fostering a vital connection between brands and a diverse audience, ensuring relevance and engagement.”

Don't miss the chance to experience the allure of Onalaja's exquisite collections at Bloomingdale's Lenox Square Mall from May 1st to May 5th, 2024. For more information, visit www.onalaja.com.

A little update on our family dog

It has been so long since I posted on the blog about our beloved chihuahua, Rocco. Rocco is 10 year-old now and has been going through some health changes in his older age. A couple years ago he was diagnosed with some heart issues which are very common in his breed. His heart is too big for his little bitty body, so he has to take daily medications for life. It upsets us all knowing he doesn't have many years left, but we try to make him happy as best we can. 

Getting Rocco to take his medication was super easy in the beginning. Just put it in a pill pocket or pill wrap and he woud gobble it down like a treat. One day he got hip to what was going on and started eating the outer wrap around the pill, and would leave the pill behind. We moved on to using cheese, cream cheese and peanut butter. It went well initially, then he figured it out once again. We asked at his vet's office what we can do and they basically said do whatever it takes. 

Last year I was cooking Rocco's food every week for many months because it got to where he lost interest in eating his kibble. One of the vet techs told me to stop cooking and just add some carrots to his food. She looked at it as I was wasting my time. The thing is, I have a lot more time than most people, so it was not a problem for me to do each week. 

I took time on Pinterest and Google to search for dog-safe foods and spices. I do a few variations that include things like brown rice, quinoa, lean ground chicken or turkey, chicken breast, select vegetables, herbs and spices. Too bad salt, pepper, onion and garlic are all toxic, because Rocco would have been pretty excited to eat each day. 

 

This week I made him some quinoa with lean ground white meat chicken cooked in a tiny bit of coconut oil. It is seasoned with turmeric, and fresh herbs from my garden including sage, basil and dill. I also chopped and boiled a small sweet potato and added in a handful of frozen peas and carrots. I have a tiny mortar and pestle that I used just for his med to grind it down. I add it to his food and he eats it all with no problems. We do slip in some kibble here and there. He also gets his daily probitoc chew which helps with itching and excessive paw licking. 

It's funny when you think about what you feed your pets. It's frowned upon to give table food, but when you purchase clean and organic dog-safe foods, your pet should be just fine. Think about stray dogs and even country dogs. They eat literally anything and everything and some live for many years. We have a family-friend who fed her family's dogs hot dogs every single day. These dogs lived until they were 15! 

It all comes down to doing what is best for your pet's needs. We want to make sure Rocco eats and takes his medications on time each day. We are trying our best. Have you ever cooked homemade food for your dogs? 

Next-Level Therapy: AUVON Recharges Pain Relief

If you are a pain sufferer and need fast relief without the use of medication, then this post is for you. AUVON TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) units are valuable tools for managing pain through a non-invasive and drug-free approach. These devices work by delivering small electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin, targeting specific nerve pathways to alleviate pain.

This latest TENS unit from Auvon is so small, and comes with the convenient pouch to take with you to work or while traveling. We always take ours with us when we know we will b driving for a long time. It gives so much relief no matter where you are, right when you need it. 

There are several ways in which AUVON TENS units can be helpful:

1. Pain Relief: AUVON TENS units can effectively reduce both acute and chronic pain by interrupting the transmission of pain signals to the brain. This can provide immediate relief for conditions such as muscle soreness, arthritis, sciatica, and post-surgery discomfort.
2. Muscle Relaxation: The electrical stimulation provided by TENS units can help relax tense muscles, reduce muscle spasms, and improve flexibility and range of motion. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing muscle tension or stiffness due to injury, overuse, or underlying medical conditions.
3. Increased Circulation: TENS therapy has been shown to promote blood circulation in the treated area, which can help facilitate the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues, accelerate the healing process, and reduce inflammation.
4. Non-Addictive Pain Management: Unlike medications such as opioids or NSAIDs, which carry the risk of dependence and side effects, AUVON TENS units offer a safe and non-addictive alternative for managing pain. They can be used as standalone therapy or in conjunction with other pain management techniques for comprehensive relief.
5. Customizable Treatment: AUVON TENS units typically feature adjustable settings for intensity, frequency, and duration, allowing users to customize their treatment to suit their individual needs and preferences. This flexibility ensures that users can achieve optimal pain relief with minimal discomfort.

Overall, AUVON TENS units are valuable tools for individuals seeking safe, effective, and drug-free pain management solutions. Whether used at home or under the guidance of a healthcare professional, these devices offer a convenient and versatile option for addressing a wide range of painful conditions and improving overall quality of life. 

You can get an extra 5% off when you use the code AUVONMESH at checkout. Thank you so much to the AUVON company for sending a sample unit to us to help facilitate this post. All opinions are my own like always. 

Beauty Must-haves for Spring

As the warmer months approach, it's time to bid farewell to your winter boots and embrace the freedom of summer sandals. However, before you slip into those strappy favorites, it's essential to give your feet the TLC they deserve after being cooped up all winter. After all, there's nothing worse than feeling self-conscious about dry, cracked heels or rough skin when you're flaunting your sandals at the beach or a barbecue.

One secret weapon in your foot care arsenal is Kerasal. This innovative foot care solution is designed to target rough, cracked skin and transform it into smooth, soft feet that are ready to be shown off. With its clinically proven formula, Kerasal exfoliates dead skin cells and deeply moisturizes to reveal healthier-looking feet in just a few applications. Incorporating Kerasal into your foot care routine can make a world of difference, leaving your feet feeling rejuvenated and ready for summer adventures. 

 Kerasal Intensive Foot Repair Ointment offers visible results in just 1 day.  The Intensive Foot Repair ointment loosens hard, dry skin to exfoliate, deeply moisturize and soften severely dry skin & cracked heels.  

 Kerasal Nighttime Intensive Foot Repair Ointment offers the same visible results in just 1 night with Lavender, Chamomile, and Essential Oils and works while you sleep.

  Kerasal Multi-Purpose Nail Repair Patches. These innovative adhesive patches deliver healthy-looking summer nails to consumers who can’t pinpoint their exact nail challenge– be it thickness, ridges, discoloration, brittleness, roughness or gel/acrylic nail damage. Find them here. 

In addition to using products like Kerasal, there are a few other steps you can take to ensure your feet are sandal-ready. Regular exfoliation with a foot scrub or pumice stone can help slough away dead skin and prevent the buildup of calluses. Hydrating your feet with a rich moisturizer, especially before bed, can also help keep them soft and supple. Don't forget to trim your toenails and give them a fresh coat of polish for that extra touch of summer flair. By giving your feet the attention they deserve, you'll be stepping into summer with confidence and style. Visit the Kerasal store on Amazon for the above mentioned products and more. 

More products to consider for Mons:

After the incredible journey of childbirth, a mother's body undergoes significant changes and can often experience discomfort and soreness in delicate areas. This is where Dermoplast postpartum spray can truly be a lifesaver. Designed specifically to provide relief to the perineal area and other sensitive regions after childbirth, Dermoplast offers a gentle yet effective solution for alleviating pain, itching, and irritation. With its cooling and soothing properties, Dermoplast helps to numb the affected area, providing much-needed relief so that new moms can focus on bonding with their newborn rather than being distracted by discomfort. Easy to use and specially formulated for postpartum care, Dermoplast is a trusted companion for mothers embarking on the beautiful journey of motherhood, offering comfort and reassurance during a time of physical recovery and adjustment.

Dermosplast Postpartum Spray: 

• Provides Fast Pain Relief, Cools & Comforts
• Safe for Intimate Areas
• No Touch Spray for Easy Application
• 20% Benzocaine & Menthol with Soothing Aloe & Lanolin

Exclusively sold at Walmart

Have you heard about the latest Tiktok beauty trend called Face Blasting? Hop on your app and do a quick search in case you're not familiar. Just as diaper rash ointment is made to soothe a baby's tender bottom, you can use it for your face to help reduce redness and swelling. Who knew?!

Triple Paste Original Diaper Rash Ointment: a pediatrician-recommended diaper rash ointment that features a triple action formula to treat all diaper rashes from mild to severe, soothing baby’s bum, preventing future rashes from occurring. Its gentle yet effective formula combines 12.8% non-nano zinc oxide with nourishing oat extract and glycerin to provide fast-acting relief while forming a protective barrier against future irritations. Available in tubes for diaper changes on the go and jars for home use.

Triple Paste 3X Max Diaper Rash Ointment: a maximum-strength zinc oxide ointment for stubborn and severe diaper rashes, working to prevent, treat, and soothe raw, irritated skin. With 40% zinc oxide, this formulation contains three times more zinc oxide than the original Triple Paste formula to protect and heal severe cases of rash.

Triple Paste Sheer Zinc Diaper Rash Ointment: great for both baby butt cheeks and your face, this multi-purpose ointment is formulated with 12.8% zinc oxide to prevent, treat, and soothe raw, irritated skin caused by mild to moderate diaper rashes. Its creamy texture makes for easier application and less mess, rubbing in clear with minimal residue. It’s also safe to use as a multi-purpose skincare solution on other areas of the body, like for drool rash, heat rash, or dry spots.

Find Triple Paste products here. 

Thank you for stopping by today. I received products to facilitate this post. Any opinions are 100% my own and affiliate links are included within this post. 

Creating Calm: Practical Strategies for Parenting Highly Sensitive Children Through Emotional Storms

Parenting can be overwhelming, especially when you have a highly sensitive child. These

children are more affected by their surroundings and react strongly to emotional stimuli. This

sensitivity can lead to frequent emotional storms that leave the child and parent exhausted and

frustrated. As a parent, it is important to understand the unique needs of your highly sensitive

child and develop practical strategies to create a calm environment for them. Megghan

Thompson Coaching expert, explores effective techniques to help you navigate the challenges

of raising a highly sensitive child and provide a safe space for them to thrive. 

Understanding Highly Sensitive Children

Highly sensitive children experience the world more intensely and deeply than others. They

possess traits that make them stand out from their peers. These children are often more aware

of their surroundings, have a strong sense of empathy and intuition, and are highly perceptive.

However, these traits can also make them easily overwhelmed in certain situations.

As a parent, it is important to understand that being highly sensitive is not a flaw or weakness.

Instead, it is a personality trait that should be celebrated and embraced. Megghan Thompson

Coaching says that highly sensitive children may require extra support and understanding from

their caregivers, but they also have many strengths and gifts to offer. By understanding the

unique qualities of highly sensitive children, parents can better support and nurture their child's

emotional well-being.

Nurturing a Safe and Supportive Environment

Highly sensitive children thrive in safe and supportive environments. Creating a calm and

predictable atmosphere for your child is important as a parent. This can include setting clear

boundaries, providing routines and structure, and creating opportunities for open

communication. For example, you can establish regular check-ins with your child to discuss

their feelings and concerns. This allows your child to feel heard and understood, which can help

them manage their emotions more effectively.

Another important aspect of creating a safe and supportive environment is being mindful of your

responses as a parent. Highly sensitive children are highly attuned to the emotions of others. It

is important to copy healthy coping mechanisms and practice self-care as a parent. This can

help create a calm and positive atmosphere for your child to thrive in.

Coping with Emotional Overload

Highly sensitive children may experience emotional overload more frequently than their peers.

This can manifest in intense reactions to sensory stimuli. As a parent, you must equip your child

with coping strategies to manage these emotional storms.

One effective strategy is teaching your child deep breathing exercises. This simple technique

can help your child calm down and regulate their emotions. Another helpful tool is creating a

calm-down corner or safe space for your child to retreat to when they feel overwhelmed. This

designated area can be filled with comfort and relaxation items, such as soft blankets, sensory

toys, or calming music.

Dealing with Sensory Overload

Highly sensitive children may have difficulty processing and regulating their sensory

experiences, which can lead to anxiety and physical discomfort. As a parent, it is important to be

aware of your child's sensitivities and accommodate them as much as possible.

One way to support your child with sensory overload is by creating a sensory-friendly

environment at home. This can include using soft lighting, eliminating strong scents, and

minimizing excessive noise. You can also help your child with sensory tools like noise-canceling

headphones or weighted blankets. These tools can help your child feel more in control of their

environment and alleviate overwhelming feelings.

Encouraging Resilience and Confidence

Parents must understand that highly sensitive children are not fragile. These children exhibit

emotions and perceptions that can be powerful assets. Their empathy, creativity, and intuition

can contribute greatly to their personal growth and relationships. As a parent, nurturing

resilience and fostering self-assurance in your child is vital to guiding them toward a balanced

and fulfilling life journey.

One way to do this is by highlighting your child's unique qualities and talents. Let them know

that being highly sensitive is a special trait that can bring many positive opportunities and

experiences. Encourage your child to embrace their sensitivity and use it as a strength rather

than a weakness. Additionally, provide opportunities for your child to engage in activities or

hobbies they are passionate about. This can help boost their confidence and give them a sense

of purpose. By nurturing resilience and confidence in your highly sensitive child, you are setting

them up for success in their personal and professional lives.

Parental Self-Care

Parenting a highly sensitive child can be emotionally draining at times. To support their children

effectively, parents must prioritize their self-care. This includes taking breaks when needed,

seeking support from friends and family, and practicing mindfulness techniques.

Self-care involves setting boundaries. As a parent of a highly sensitive child, it can be tempting

to prioritize your child's needs over your own. However, this can negatively affect your ability to

care for your child. Prioritizing your well-being is important to being the best caregiver for your

child.

Final Thoughts

Highly sensitive children possess unique qualities that make them perceptive and empathetic.

As parents, it is essential to understand and celebrate these traits while providing a safe and

supportive environment for our children to thrive in. By practicing effective coping strategies,

accommodating their sensory needs, nurturing resilience and confidence, and prioritizing self-

care as caregivers, we can help our highly sensitive children navigate the world with confidence

and embrace their sensitivity as a strength. Remember, your child's sensitivity is not a

weakness but a beautiful gift that should be valued and cherished.

Random Thoughts on Ageism, Insulting Women, and How Social Media Plays a Role

I remember for many years thinking that men were the ultimate enemy against women and their self-esteem. That is how it was pushed and publicized for ages. Many people might still think this is the case, but I surely have changed my mind. It turns out that the ones who seem so against the choices women make are in fact, other women, especially the younger ones. If you're thinking I am talking nonsense, it's okay. These are my thoughts, and I have decided to share them. 

If you frequent apps like TikTok, X or Instagram, you will see posts from people with every taste, from every walk of life, and with so many differing opinions on anything and EVERYthing. I am noticing so much more lately that a lot of women who are age 50+ post videos responding to negative comments that were left on a previous post. I am the type of woman  who isn’t doing all of that. I simply block the person who was behaving ugly, and delete their comment. You can’t allow yourself to be hurt over some random person on the internet saying something about you that you didn’t like. Believe me, you will get past it and life will go on. 

However, these newer “influencers” aren’t having it. They are clapping back and calling folks out. What gets me is that these are often gorgeous women with a huge following, and seemingly living a really nice life. They are speaking out when a follower tells them they are too old to wear something or to behave in a certain way. I saw a TikTok yesterday of a beautiful woman who I believe is a makeup artist with gorgeous gray hair and artfully done makeup. She was responding to a younger woman who commented that she was too old for pigtails. The TikTokker proceeded to style her long locks with pigtails on both sides, and let me tell you something, she looked damn good! 

That was her response, and I was internally applauding her for doing what made her feel pretty and happy. After all, the goal for any person is to be happy and feel good about themselves. Once you have that, you can succeed in every area of your life. 

Another TikTok I recently viewed was of a stunning beauty in her late 60s wearing a sporty sweatsuit. She was being harassed that she was too old to wear that. I was shocked! What does age have to do with a cute sweatshirt and matching jogger pants? It seems like no matter what women over 50 choose to wear for THEMSELVES, there is always some young female troll telling her she shouldn't wear it. 

So the next time you find yourself thinking that a 50+-something woman shouldn’t be wearing crop tops, short skirts, bikinis, or doing what doesn’t suit your taste, please STOP IT. Leave women to be who they are. The world is already harder on a woman’s appearance, so please keep your negative thoughts to yourself. Thanks for stopping by today! 

March 15 Application Deadline for Education Scholarship Trust Fund

 

March 15 Application Deadline for Education Scholarship Trust Fund

5,000 scholarships will provide more K-12 options for low and moderate income families

The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) is reminding South Carolina families that the deadline to apply for the Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF) Program is March 15, 2024.

The program, signed into law by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster in May 2023, allots $30 million to be used for scholarships for educational expenses. Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first served basis for up to 5,000 qualifying South Carolina families for the 2024-2025 school year.

At $6,000 per student, the scholarships can be used to support a customized, flexible education. Families can use the funds to pay for tuition, textbooks, curriculum and educational materials, as well as for tutoring, online courses and a wide range of educational therapies including speech, physical, occupational and vision. Approved applicants will receive their first quarterly payment of $1,500 in late July 2024.

“For over a decade, policymakers have diligently worked toward allowing parents this type of ability to customize their child’s education,” said State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver. “This program has the potential to truly transform lives and make sure the unique learning needs of every child are met.”

Easy Three-Step Process to Apply

To apply for Education Scholarship Trust Fund scholarships, families need to complete this three-step process:

Step 1- Complete a simple application, available at: 

https://www.classwallet.com/programs/southcarolinaestf/ for which they will need:

A) Proof of guardianship (tax return with dependents listed, birth certificate, etc.)

B) Proof of income (2022 or 2023 tax return documentation. If they don't file taxes, they’ll need to provide information on income.)

C) Proof of residency (driver's license or state-issued ID, utility bill, etc.)

After the application has been reviewed to verify eligibility, families will receive another email notifying them of the eligibility decision. The application review process and notification may take up to 14 days. To help determine their students’ eligibility for this program, families can refer to the frequently asked questions at https://www.classwallet.com/programs/southcarolinaestf/



Step 2- Access scholarship funds:

Once a student is approved, the family will receive a welcome email from ClassWallet, contracted for programmatic support and to manage the distribution of scholarship funds to participating families, with the next steps on how to access their scholarship funds. Support and training will be provided to answer any questions families may have regarding how the program works.

Step 3- Use scholarship funds:

Families will be able to make payments and purchases for approved expenses using their students’ scholarship account.

Relax with Grace & Stella Lavender Skin Care Products

Lavender is an exceptional and highly sought-after ingredient in beauty products due to its remarkable benefits for both the skin and overall well-being. Its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help soothe and calm the skin, making it ideal for sensitive or irritated skin types. The gentle floral scent of lavender also offers aromatherapeutic advantages, promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can positively impact skin health. Its natural antibacterial qualities aid in combating acne-causing bacteria, while its ability to boost circulation contributes to a healthier complexion with a radiant glow. Whether used in lotions, creams, oils, or serums, lavender proves to be a multifaceted botanical that nourishes, revitalizes, and enhances the beauty of the skin. 

If you are looking for some relaxation and pampering, you must check out the lavender line of body products from grace & stella. Please note that this post may contain affiliate links.

lavender spray (SRP: $26) — Spray all night. Soothing your atmosphere is just as important as soothing your skin. Get ready for the best sleep of your life with this mood-lifting spray for your linens, pillows, and room. Infused with lavender flower water, aloe extract, and chamomile flower extract to calm your worries and combat insomnia. It is also backed up by real aromatherapy science to treat headaches and relieve tension. An absolute must for peri- and menopausal women!

lavender essential oil (SRP: $26) – Calm yourself.  And don’t let a summer headache get you down. This 100% pure lavender oil provides pain-relief that makes you go "ahh"! Promoting relaxation and used to treat anxiety, headaches, depression, insomnia, and more, it is the upgrade your self-care routine has been craving. You've never known a more peaceful sleep - lavender oil is infamous in the aromatherapy world for boosting sleepiness and relieving stress and muscle tension for a relaxed body. It also offers anti-inflammatory properties, and treats fungal infections, allergies, eczema, nausea, and menstrual cramps.

lavender dr. pedicure foot peeling mask (SRP: $26/2 pairs & $34/4 pairs) — Down for the peel. 

Are barefoot summer days and long walks on the beach leaving your feet rough and calloused? This viral and gross-but-satisfying exfoliant foot peel is packed with powerful alpha hydroxy acids (including lactic acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid) that will completely shed the dry, calloused skin off feet. It's formulated to penetrate deep into the skin barrier to soften and repair feet, transforming and peeling them to reveal the fresh skin underneath. Hello, baby-soft feet. Buy them here. 

lavender body lotion (SRP: $25) — Do your skin a favor.  Amazon’s Choice and Overall Pick, this effective, anxiety-relieving but not-overpowering daily body lotion is enriched with the relaxing scent of lavender essential oil to promote calmness and wellness, and the nourishing properties of shea butter to instantly hydrate skin and maintain moisture for up to 12 hours. Does the sun, chlorine or saltwater have your skin looking like raisins these days? This smooth, intensely-replenishing, lightweight formula melts effortlessly into your skin, leaving it soft, supple, moisturized, and smelling oh-so-good.

just the facts:

●      truly clean!

●      100% Vegan

●      cruelty-free - Leaping Bunny certified

●      no dyes are used in any products 

●      paraben-free

grace & stella is available on Amazon and graceandstella.com. 

Thank you so much to grace & stella for the lovely products to try out. We love them! 

Shop the Big Sale at Kidpik

Right now Kidpik, known to keep your kids looking stylish from head-to-toe, is having a BIG Sale on their site for savings of up to 70% off! This is the perfect time to stock up on some items for your kids and tweens sizes 4-16. They have the cutest looks for Valentine's Day for both boys and girls. Here are a few nice choices: 

This Mini Heart Fleece Crew is super cute and will keep your little one cozy with these chilly temperatures. This would look great with leggings or skinny jeans. 

These Rhinestone Heart Sunglasses are the perfect accessory for your little Valentine. It is definitely a sparkly addition not only for Valentine's Day, but every day! A girl can never have enough sparkle. 

Keep your young man looking sharp in this snazzy Corduroy Shirt. It would look so good with jeans or khakis. 

Kidpik makes it easy for parents to shop for outfits with pieces that work well together to acheive the perfect look for your kid. They offer everything from tops, bottoms, accessories, shoes, dresses and more. Don't delay, head over to Kidpik to shop the big sale today. This is the perfect time to stock up for later. 

Sparks of Love: Sites from The Notebook Tour, in Charleston, SC

Prepare to step into the enchanting world of Noah and Allie as On Location Tours proudly announces the launch of its newest walking tour, Sparks of Love: Sites from The Notebook Tour, in Charleston, South Carolina. Fans of Nicholas Sparks are invited to explore the charming streets and iconic film locations that served as the backdrop for this beloved romance. 

Highlights of the tour include:

Dance along King Street where Allie and Noah slow dance in the middle of the road

Take a photo in front of the William Aiken House, where Allie tries on her wedding dress for her wedding with Lon

Stop by the American Theater where Noah and Allie have their very first date

Pack your books and head over to Randolph Hall at the College of Charleston, where Allie attends school during WWII

Peer through the window at the restaurant High Cotton, just like Noah does when he sees Allie with Lon for the first time

And more! 

Their expert guide, well-versed in the film's history and production, will provide behind-the-scenes anecdotes and fascinating trivia, making this tour a must for die-hard fans and those seeking a touch of romance in the charming streets of Charleston. 

On Location Tours is thrilled to offer this unique and romantic experience, celebrating the enduring love story depicted in "The Notebook." Whether you're a fan of the film or simply seeking a romantic escape, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the enchanting locations that brought Noah and Allie's love story to life. 

To book your spot on the 'The Notebook' Tour, visit onlocationtours.com or contact Erin at erin@onlocationtours.com. The tour launches on Sunday, February 25th at 10am, and is approx. 2 hours long. The cost of the tour is $30/person. 

About On Location Tours: On Location Tours is a leading provider of TV and movie filming location tours, with tours in New York City, Boston, Chicago, LA and South Carolina. The tours feature sites from the hottest and latest on the big and small screen. Founded in 1999, it is one of the East Coast’s most popular tourist attractions. Some of the tours include: New York TV & Movie Sites, Sex and the City Hotspots, Gossip Girl Sites, Sopranos Sites, Central Park TV & Movie Sites and Boston TV & Movie Sites.