How To Pick An Amazing Swimsuit For A Beach Vacation

It's quite challenging when choosing the right swimwear when you are going on a beach vacation. As exciting as beach vacations are, for some, choosing the right swimsuit can add a little stress. For the benefit of those travelers who want to experience the sands, waves and salt-water fun, the following information can help immensely.

Photo by Link Hoang on Unsplash

Let’s start with the real test! How do you know what’s best for you?

No other garment selection requires so much consideration, as much as a swimsuit does for a woman. To begin with, the design and cut of the swimwear are extremely important. It affects the way it sticks to your body and boosts your beach/poolside confidence.

Decorative components like flounce or a cut-out and a well-placed print play a key role. The most comfortable swimwear is the well-fitted and modest one because it covers most of your body parts, you need not worry about exposing certain areas that you may want to hide. Yet it holds the body together to give you the confidence that makes you enjoy the beach or pool.  Here are some tips to find the best swimsuit before you set out on that vacation of yours;

Shape Matters!

If you can measure the size of your chest, waist, and hip, it is easy to find your body type. The most common body shapes among women are apple, banana, pear, spoon, bell, hourglass-shaped, etc. Of course, the hourglass-shaped body is considered the ideal body shape but the world is a mix and match and not all are supermodels in everyday life!

Photo by Artem Beliaikin on Unsplash

Browse for Options

If you are worried about the apt place to find the apt bathing suit to match your body shape, browsing through some top online options can help. If you want to lay hands on the best bathing outfits, you can try bathing suits from Planet Blue, they have a vast collection of one-piece, bikini tops, bottom with a wide range of fitting from full-coverage to skimpy fit swimsuit styles.

Get a Little Color Conscious

Choosing a bright color and pattern will highlight a body part whereas solid colors will help you hide the unattractive area of your body. For people with pale skin, try choosing black, dark purple, maroon or navy blue. Bright colors will be apt for those with a dark complexion.

Swimsuits Can Create Good Illusions

A high-waist swimsuit with vertical and angled stripes is advantageous to give the illusion of long legs. You will look slim and sexy. Wearing reds will make you look smaller. To add volume to your upper and lower areas, try something with ruffles and hardware detailing. Ruffles will help in adding volume and shirring will hide volume. To hide your waist, the monokini is the best, and tankini will highlight the same. Try picking a boy shorts if you have an hourglass-shaped body.

Let it Complement Your Body

If you are short, the hi-cut bottom will make your legs look slender. Halter-tops will make your bust attractive and bandeau top will make them look wider. To show-off, your figure, try some embellishments like jewels, flowers, sequins, and cut-outs in your swimsuit.

Fabric is Important, Too

If you love going on frequent beach vacations, choose fabrics that will ensure swimsuit longevity. The commonly used strong fabric materials are nylon, neoprene, and lycra. Polyester is the best and most common material used to withstand chlorine and fading. Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) is used in competitive suits for stretchability and it withstands chlorine.

Photo by Tyler Nix on Unsplash

Picking the Right One

Pick a top that stays in place while jumping and moving around. Experiment this in the trial sessions, exchange if it doesn’t solve the purpose. Pick a bottom that matches with your hip measurements to feel comfortable and cozy. If you are planning to order a swimsuit online, don't skip to check the size chart and customer reviews regarding the fit and material. Most retailers offer mix and match options to the users to customize their swimsuit according to their size. This will offer much comfort. Buy the appropriate one that fulfills the purpose of your swimsuit. A sexy one-piece or a bikini will be suitable to keep you cool and flattering by the waves, under the umbrella.

Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. Ladies, at the end of the day, you live your life only once. Wear something that will help boost your confidence and comfort. Ultimately, it is your self-esteem that pervades and inspires your identity and is projected by your vibes in your personality.

Holiday Gift Idea: FUJIFILM INSTAX mini LiPlay

Have you started buying any gifts for the holidays yet? I have been brainstorming ideas of what to get for my family this year. There are moments where I struggle to think of something different from the usual pajamas, clothes, and beauty products. One thing I do know is you can't ever go wrong with tech gifts, especially since most everything these days is tech-related. Instax has some fun items that are sure to please any gift-recipient.

Have fun on-the-go with FUJIFILM's INSTAX mini LiPlay, the hybrid camera that offers instant print and digital technologies (Retail: $159.95). This camera is super cute and so much fun to use. Charge it up, and insert the instax mini instant film, and you're ready to go!

Just snap your photos and instantly print them out with integrated frames or even sound recording. You can even print directly from your smartphone using the mini LiPlay app. The photos are wallet-sized which is perfect for sharing with friends or family.

It comes with a wrist strap and charging cord. It is so user-friendly, even a kid could use it. My son has been obsessed with taking photos and couldn't wait to take some shots of his favorite subject, our dog!

I can totally see giving this camera as a holiday gift or for a birthday. It is perfect to have at a party where guests can get in a picture with the person of honor and have a photo to take home. There is a nostalgic feeling of having photos develop before your eyes.

Other FUJIFILM items to consider:

Unleash the memories locked away in your smartphone with INSTAX mini Link. Connect the mini instax printer seamlessly over Bluetooth to create fun prints to keep and share with family and friends. (Retail: $99.95)

For those who like big adventure, take your photography to the next-level with the compact FUJIFILM X-A7 mirrorless digital camera . A professional-level camera that takes exceptional images and won't weigh you down on your travels. With an articulating touch-screen, 24.2MP imaging sensor and 4K video recording, users can create amazing content on-the-go. Retailing at $899.00, the FUJIFILM X-A7 with the FUJINON FUJINON XC15-45mmF3.5- 5.6 OIS PZ lens kit is the perfect entry to photography and a great way to capture a trip of a lifetime.

Be sure to follow Instax on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest for product updates and promotions.

Thank you Instax for providing the INSTAX mini LiPlay for us to review. All opinions are 100% my own.

Things To Know Before Mortgage Loan Application

One of your goals is probably to acquire a home. One of the ways you can make your dream come true is by taking a mortgage. However, purchasing a home on mortgage goes beyond finding a house and signing a deal with the seller. Your lender must approve of you. The process can be daunting for first-timers and those who are unprepared.

Qualifying for a mortgage requires some careful planning. You need first to arm yourself with knowledge before you start the mortgage application process. Here are things your mortgage lender or broker probably wants you to know before starting the home loan application process.

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Know Your Needs

You need to understand what you need before talking to a mortgage broker in Ontario or starting the application process. Lenders want applicants who have a standard of materials. Some of the things that your lender probably requires are two years’ worth of tax filings a month of a recent pay stub from a buyer to be listed on loan. Your lender might also require bank account statements of at least three months.

Pay Off Debt

You can lower the ratio of your gross and net income by paying off debts, such as car loans or credit card debt. Usually, lenders don’t like applicants who have committed a significant percentage of their income to loans. You need to have an excellent financial status that will appeal to your lender so that you can get the best rates possible.

A Credit Report

The first thing that any lender would want to check for when applying for a mortgage is your credit. You should prove your creditworthiness to your lender so that you can enjoy the most favorable rates. Therefore, you need to make sure that your credit report is accurate and that the scores are correct. You can apply for a copy of your credit report beforehand.

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Do Your Homework

It would pay if you did your research well before applying for a mortgage. You are looking for a home and at the same time, making a financial commitment that you will probably live with for years. As such, you need to get the best deal possible. You ought to research brokers, loans, and rates before committing to anything.

Now that you know the things to bear in mind when applying for a mortgage, you can make an informed decision. You also increase your chances of getting approved for a mortgage and owning your dream house. Don’t forget to talk to an expert for further guidance.

How To Make The Most Out Of Shopping On Black Friday

This is a sponsored post in partnership with Intellifluence. All opinions are 100% my own. 

It is absolutely crazy to think that the holiday season is practically here already. I tend to try to get a list made of all of the upcoming events, and make a gift list for friends and family. Of course it is super important to set a budget and stick to it. One of the best ways to purchase holiday gifts is by taking advantage of Black Friday 2020 deals.

For years, I have always made Kohl's my number one stop for gifts. I would make sure I previewed the Black Friday deals ahead of time, so that I could make a categorized list. Kohl's always has extra coupons and savings, especially at specific times for Black Friday.

I have been able to purchase most everything on my list at Kohl's including clothing, accessories, pajamas, holiday decor, and gift wrap. The prices are so good, that I can be extra generous with my gift-giving. It's also a great time to stock up on clothes for the winter. I have found that the Black Friday prices have always been better than those lowest prices of the year sales.

A few things to keep in mind if you are heading out to do your Black Friday shopping:

• Be organized. Bring your list and stick to it. Don't forget any paper coupons you might have. 
• Carry cash in several places, not just your wallet
• Use the buddy system. Do not shop alone! It's important to have a family member or friend with you in case things get too overwhelming. 
• If you are headed out in the early morning hours, eat breakfast or bring some snacks in your bag. Include some bottled water. 
• Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. It is easy to get overheated in busy stores, so layers are essential. 
• Carry a cross body style bag so that you can monitor your wallet, cash and credit cards more closely. 
• Keep your phone handy in case you have to do some quick addition of your purchases so there's no surprises when you get to the register. 

Photo by freestocks.org on Unsplash

Black Friday shopping can be a fun experience if you are with the right people. I have always enjoyed the thrill of the hunt for great deals with my husband. He is super patient and helps me narrow down choices, and carries my bags. If you plan on heading out on Black Friday, make sure you stop at Kohl's. If in-person shopping isn't your thing, you can always shop online. Either way, happy shopping! 

Tips to Help you Cut your Tax Bill

If you receive an unexpected tax bill it can potentially bring on a lot of stress. There are a few things you can do to cut your bill legally. However, you might need to put a bit of effort in but it could be worth it.

Photo by Sabri Tuzcu on Unsplash

Adjust your W-4
This is the form that you need to hand to your employer. This form tells them how much tax they need to withhold from each pay check.  If you have a big tax bill looming, you might be able to raise the withholding until the next tax year.  If you received a large refund, you could reduce the withholding. This will mean you’re less likely to be living on less money.

Fund an FSA
Did you know that when it comes to your personal taxes you can add tax-free dollars to your FSA every single year? If your employer offers you a flexible account you could use it to your advantage. The latest limit is $2,700 and some employers might allow you to carry around $500 over to the next tax year.

Save Money for College
If you would like to save money so your child can go to college, you could potentially reduce your tax bill. Consider making contributions to your 529 plan. You won’t be able to deduct the contributions on the federal income taxes. However, you could deduct them on your state return. This is only the case if you are putting money into your state’s plan.

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash

Record Your Medical Expenses
If you have had dental care or expensive medical treatments, you should keep hold of your receipts. You can deduct any expenses that are 10% or more than the adjusted gross income for that year.  Let’s imagine that your income is $50,000. You would be able to deduct anything beyond the first $500.

Work on Your Timing
There can be a huge difference between doing your taxes on the last day of December and the first day of January. If you think you have an expense looming try to pay it this year rather than the next. So, for example, having that tooth extracted now means you could meet the medical expenses threshold. If you were to wait until next year you could lose out on your deductions.

Donate Your Money
When you donate money to charity those contributions are often times deductible. What’s more, is those donations do not always have to be in cash. If you have donated household items, food, or clothing you could have a lower tax bill. However, you will need to make sure that you got a receipt for your donations and they went to a recognized charity.

It is possible for you to reduce your tax bill, you just have to take some extra steps. By implementing those things, it can lead to you paying less in taxes every year. Follow the above tips and you’re less likely to get an alarming tax bill.

Shop Using Shipt Delivery From BI-LO (Giveaway)

This is a sponsored post in partnership with Shipt + BI-LO. All opinions are my own.

Hi guys! You might have caught a post I posted a couple weeks ago regarding BI-LO partnering with Shipt delivery service, to bring your groceries and household items straight to your door. It's so convenient being able to order your groceries from your office, sitting at soccer practice, or from the comfort of your home.

Well, I have some other exciting news! One lucky Mom Files reader will win a Shipt membership valued at $99. You will have the convenience of getting same-day delivery from BI-LO. Enter below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to BI-LO customers only and ends on November 17, 2019. For BI-LO locations, please visit BI-LO.com. Must follow rules in Rafflecopter. One winner will be chosen randomly. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

3 Best Places to Visit in Europe This Winter

If you love to travel, then planning your next trip will be almost as exciting as actually being on your next trip. (Hey, we said almost!) While many people want to travel somewhere warm and tropical during the colder months, some people are looking for their perfect winter destination. This might be picturesque snowy towns known for their ski resorts, or it might be visiting some incredible cities while they’re decorated for the season. And all of this can be found in Europe.

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Visiting Europe during the winter months shouldn’t be immediately rejected. The cities (and popular tourist spots) will likely be less crowded, flights and hotels will likely be cheaper, and there are plenty of seasonal offerings and decorations to enjoy. Holiday markets and events are common, but you’ll be able to find seasonal events wherever you go. Plus, all of the beautiful lights and decorations will put you in a happy and festive mood, and they might just make your travels that much better.

Here are the 3 best places to visit in Europe this winter:

1. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a wonderful place to visit in the winter because there’s so much to do during this festive time of year, from visiting seasonal markets and events to taking in all the festive decorations and picturesque scenery. If you visit in December or early January, you absolutely must check out the city’s Christmas markets at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square (but there are even more around the city). There you’ll find seasonal ornaments, trinkets, keepsakes, souvenirs, and plenty of hearty foods and drinks.

Want to experience a real-life winter fairytale? Head to the Prague Castle to learn more about the city’s history and admire some incredible art and architecture. To escape the cold, check out museums like the Kafka Museum, the Národní museum, The City of Prague Museum, and the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague. And when you’re done, relax with some Czech beer or a glass of wine and a big bowl of goulash.

2. Paris, France
Paris receives tens of millions of tourists per year, and the warmer months are the most popular times to visit. Why not escape the crowds and visit one of the world’s most romantic cities during the winter? Sure, it’ll be cold, but if you’re lucky, you might get to see this beautiful city covered in snow. With seasonal lights and decorations, it won’t be a sight to miss.

Besides visiting all of the usual stops in Paris like the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d'Orsay, the Arc de Triomphe, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, and Montmartre, you should also check out some of the city’s seasonal offerings. Christmas is very popular in Paris, so it’s safe to say that the city goes all out. Check out the shop decorations along the Champs-Elysées, go ice skating at the Eiffel Tower, head to one of the many Christmas markets, or see the decorations at Disneyland Paris. Even if you don’t celebrate the holiday, seeing all the colors and lights will surely make you feel warm and fuzzy inside.

3. Stockholm, Sweden
If you’re able to handle the much colder temps up north, then you must give Stockholm a chance. It’s another picturesque winter destination, and it’s full of exciting things to do, even in the winter. There are numerous Christmas markets to check out, but one of the most popular is the one in Gamla Stan, the city’s old town. Indulge in sweets and meats, sip some festive glögg, and take home some festive crafts and souvenirs. At night, there’s even the option to take a walking tour by lantern light where you can see the sights and learn about Swedish traditions.

For museums, you must check out the ever-popular Vasa Museum, which houses the world’s best-preserved 17th-century ship. For some great food, go to the Östermalms Saluhall, an indoor food market. And if you’re ready to get out and brave the cold again, take a boat ride or hit up one of the area’s many ski resorts.

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach Plans Special Needs Sensory Day

Special needs children and adults in the Myrtle Beach area can have fun and learn about science at an upcoming event that was designed just for them. WonderWorks Myrtle Beach is offering a special Sensory Day event on Sunday, November 17, 2019. This event provides those with special needs the ability to explore, learn, and have fun inside the Myrtle Beach’s iconic upside-down adventure, with many of the exhibits and attractions inside the building being adapted to provide guests more comfort. Tickets to the event are $10 plus tax for everyone.

“We are excited to host Sensory Days here at WonderWorks! We continue to work closely with Champion Autism Network, Inc. every year to ensure we are providing a safe yet fun environment!” says Robert Stinnett, general manager at WonderWorks Myrtle Beach. “Our exhibits and building are altered during the events to provide limited stimulation for children and adults with special needs, while still providing a wonderful experience for all.”

WonderWorks’ Sensory Days programs aim to give those with special needs a chance to explore the indoor amusement park with modifications to help make it more comfortable for them to do so.

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach has partnered with the Champion Autism Network, Inc., CAN, for this event. CAN is an autism awareness organization based in Surfside Beach, South Carolina. Founded in 2012, their goal is to raise awareness about autism, and help reduce criticism, judgment, and to help families develop a network of like-minded people and supports.

To help make WonderWorks sensory friendly for this special event, guests can expect:

• All exhibits will be altered to provide limited stimulation for children and adults with special needs.
• The music throughout the facility will be lowered.
• All exhibits that are generally considered to be loud will be turned off.
• The inversion tunnel at the beginning of the attraction will be shut off.
• The focus of the event will be to create a safe and comfortable environment and experience for guests with special needs, so they can enjoy it all without feeling overwhelmed.

“Our Sensory Events continue to grow year after year, and we look forward to continuing to provide a fun, educational experience for everyone of all ages!” added Stinnett.

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach offers 50,000 square feet of “edu-tainment” opportunities, billing itself as an amusement park for the mind. They offer over 100 hands-on exhibits covering natural disasters, space discovery, an imagination lab, a physical challenge zone, a far out art gallery, and a light and sound zone. WonderWorks is open Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. For more information, log onto its site: https://www.wonderworksonline.com/myrtle-beach/.

About WonderWorks:

WonderWorks, a science-focused indoor amusement park, combines education and entertainment. With over 100 hands-on exhibits – there is something unique and challenging for all ages. Feel the power of 84mph hurricane-force winds in the Hurricane Shack. Make huge, life-sized bubbles in the Bubble Lab. Get the NASA treatment in our Astronaut Training Gyro and experience zero gravity. Nail it by lying on the death–defying Bed of Nails. Conquer your fear of heights on our indoor Glow-In-The-Dark Ropes Course. WonderWorks is also home to Wonders of Magic, starring Terry Evanswood, the award-winning and longest running performer in Myrtle Beach. WonderWorks hosts birthday parties and special events seasonally. Open Sunday thru Thursday 10am-8:30pm and Friday and Saturday 10am-9:30pm. https://www.wonderworksonline.com/myrtle-beach/.

How to Prep for Vacation at Work

Do you regularly plan for and take vacation? If not, you’re probably hurting yourself and your general level of satisfaction. Planning a vacation actually makes people happier than if they don’t. They’re less stressed, their health is better, and heck, they even have a longer life.

Even if people do take a vacation, they’re probably not taking all the vacation that is owed to them. The reasons for this are varied, but a lot of it has to do with deadlines and too much work. And if you don’t take those vacations, you’re hurting yourself and you’re hurting your company, too. You’re not as focused at work and you’re more likely to burn out too. (Guess what: If you take a vacation, you’re also more likely to get a raise.)

So you need to take time off—how do you prepare for it better in order to maximize your time and not stress out? This graphic offers some ideas.


Thank you ZeroCater for these helpful tips!

The Benefits of HCG Shots for Weight Loss

Losing weight can be a difficult undertaking. Your genetics, metabolism, lifestyle, diet, stress levels and sleep habits can all play a part in your ability to lose weight. Perhaps you've tried to defy genetics, increase your metabolism, change your lifestyle, alter your diet, lower your stress levels, and improve your sleep habits. But then, you realized that nothing is working. In your quest to lose weight, it's important to not give up and allow your setbacks to discourage you. That's because you have options. Getting hcg shots for weight loss could be just what you need to shed those pounds.

What Is HCG?

Before you learn how HCG shots can help you lose weight, you should probably learn what HCG is first. You've probably heard of HCG as pertaining to pregnant women, but you may be wondering why you'd use it for weight loss if you're not pregnant.

HCG, which stands for human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone expectant mothers produce in high levels during early pregnancy. In fact, this hormone is what determines a pregnant or not pregnant result in home pregnancy tests. Many experts claim that HCG can help boost your metabolism and help you lose large amounts of fat. You can do all of this without feeling hungry. Accompanied by a strict, ultra-low 500 calories diet, HCG injections can help with weight loss.

What Is the HCG Diet?

The HCG diet is a low-fat, low-calorie diet to help you burn calories faster. The faster you can burn calories, the faster you can lose weight. The HCG diet is generally divided into three phases:

• Loading phase: This is what kicks off the HCG diet and gets it started. You start the diet by eating lots of high-fat, high-calorie foods. This continues for two days.
• Weight loss phase: Get HCG injections daily to get the best results. Then, eat only 500 calories per day for 3-6 weeks or until you get your desired results.
• Maintenance phase: Stop getting the HCG injections. You can gradually increase your food intake, but be sure to avoid sugar and starches for 3 weeks. These practices can help you maintain your weight and help prevent weight gain.

How HCG Injections Work

The same role the HCG hormone plays in expectant mothers can be the same role it plays in weight loss for men and women. For example, if a pregnant woman isn't eating enough to support the growth and development of her baby, the HCG hormone will utilize excessive fats that her body has stored. This is to ensure proper nutrition during pregnancy. This same process can help you burn fat with HCG injections. Your body will start to utilize excess fats, which means that it will help burn these fats faster and more frequently.

Low-calorie consumption can be effective all on its own, but when paired with regular HCG injections, it can increase the effectiveness of burning excess fat. Also, just doing the HCG diet alone can leave you feeling weak, while HCG injections can ensure your body gets the energy it needs.

How BI-LO Delivery By Shipt Saves Busy Families Time

This is a sponsored post in partnership with Shipt + BI-LO. All opinions are my own. 

Do you ever find yourself at home browsing recipes on Pinterest, and you find the perfect dinner or dessert recipe that you actually have all of the ingredients for? Yeah, me either. I always seem to be off by one or two ingredients. It's hard for me since I do not have access to a vehicle during the day, so this means waiting until after 5:30 before any of the working adults get home. By that time, it's too late to try to put dinner together after getting to and from the store.

I am so grateful to live in the age of technology where you can get just about anything you need, sometimes as quickly as you need it. Thankfully Shipt grocery delivery service is available for the days I can't get to the store right away. Shipt is a membership-based service that you can join with an annual or monthly subscription, and you can cancel at any time. I'm thrilled that they now deliver from BI-LO stores.

Right now if you become a new Shipt member, you can get 2-weeks of same-day delivery free, and receive a $20 credit on your first order from BI-LO! Who doesn't want FREE groceries? Now all of those recipes that I want to make can actually happen. Shipt grocery delivery is not only convenient since you don't have to leave your home, but it helps prevent all of those unnecessary purchases. I can't ever seem to not have that urge to buy things that are not on my list for a variety of reasons. Also, not having to make a trip to the grocery store is a huge time saver, especially for busy families.

I was super excited to make my first order from BI-LO using Shipt. This just happened to be one of those times where I seemed to have run out of so many of my kitchen and household staples at the same time. Also, since it is the baking season, I stocked up on a few baking supplies so I won't run into the issue of not having all of the ingredients for a recipe. But you know what? If I do run out it's no problem! I can just log into my Shipt account and make a quick delivery order, and receive my items in as soon as one hour. As long as I keep my order $35 or more, my delivery is free.

I feel like once you get Shipt delivery, there is no turning back. I enjoyed receiving my groceries from BI-LO, and I look forward to placing my next order. My Shipt shopper alerted me via text when she made it to BI-LO and asked if I needed any additional items. She shopped my order, and as soon as she was done, she texted me to let me know she was on the way to my home. You can start your Shipt account online or through their free app available through your phone's app store. Don't forget to take advantage of their special promotion to get your $20 credit to shop at BI-LO.

So now the question is which dessert or entree do I make first? I guess the next thing I need to work on is my meal planning. That's definitely not my favorite thing to do, but at least I can grocery shop in my pajamas! If you have any questions about BI-LO delivery by Shipt, leave me a comment or send an email. Thank you for stopping by today!

Little Bites® Visit Myrtle Beach Happy Halloween Goodies Galore Sweepstakes + Giveaway

Today's post is sponsored by Entenmann’s® Little Bites®. The opinions expressed in this post are my own and do not reflect the opinions of Entenmann’s® Little Bites®

Can you believe that it's almost Halloween? It seems like the last couple of months flew on by. If you haven't already prepared for those little ghouls and goblins to come knocking on your door, you better get to it. Of course, Halloween is known for tons of candies, chocolates, and treats, but this year, why not hand out something different? Entenmann’s Little Bites Fudge Brownies are a delicious alternative that are sure to please your trick-or-treaters.

They are also a fun snack for classroom parties since they are available in perfectly pre-portioned pouches, contains no high fructose corn syrup, and zero grams of trans fat per serving. Little Bites Fudge Brownies are a snack “momsters” can feel good about! If you are having a Halloween party at home, you should check out this fun DIY dessert for these Wicked Fudge Brownie Bites:



Find out about Little Bites® Visit Myrtle Beach Happy Halloween Goodies Galore Sweepstakes:

• Entenmann’s Little Bites snacks is giving fans a spook-tastic opportunity to win a family trip to Myrtle Beach! Consumers can enter the Little Bites Visit Myrtle Beach Happy Halloween Goodies Galore Sweepstakes from October 1 - October 31 by visiting https://www.littlebites.com/Halloween-goodies.
• Fans will be prompted to complete and submit the registration form to receive one (1) entry in the Grand Prize drawing.
• In addition to the grand prize, fans can enter for a chance to receive a one (1) week supply of Little Bites product awarded in the form of five coupons, each redeemable for one (1) Little Bites product up to $5.00 in value.
• For more information and official rules, please visit https://www.littlebites.com/Halloween-goodies.

Information about Visit Myrtle Beach:

• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is where cherished memories are made along 60 miles of beautiful coastline.
• Discover stunning sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean, fun days at the beach, lush natural wonders, and grand new adventures.
• Savor our warm Southern hospitality, fresh coastal cuisine, and our unique flavor of fun.
• Cherish these moments together.
• Visit Myrtle Beach — where happiness comes in waves.

Special Reader Giveaway: 

Mom Files is thrilled to offer our readers a sweet prize pack giveaway including a $25 Visa digital gift card and (3) coupons for $5.00 off the purchase of any Entenmann’s® Little Bites® courtesy of Entenmann's. Enter below: 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and ends on October 28, 2019. Must follow rules in Rafflecopter. One winner will be chosen randomly. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

The coupons for product redemption, information, and gift card have been provided by Entenmann’s Little Bites snacks so that I could try the product and share my thoughts and information about Entenmann’s Little Bites snacks. The opinions expressed in this post are my own and do not reflect the opinions of Entenmann’s Little Bites snacks.

Choosing Children’s Shoes: Mechanical Considerations

If you let a child choose their own shoes you’ll probably be surprised by their choice, it will certainly look good, but it may not be the most practical option.

Of course, you may want to get your child shoes that look like yours, but this is also not necessarily the best option.

In fact, despite many children’s shoes looking very similar to adults, children do not have the same movements as adults. As children grow they need different shoes to ensure that their feet are properly supported; giving them the right footwear can help to avoid them having issues later in life.

It’s a lot of responsibility for any parent and the reason specialist shops like Garvalin, Australia exist.

Photo by Michał Parzuchowski on Unsplash

The first thing to understand is that a shoe serves several roles:

       Protection

A long time ago humans didn’t wear shoes, but shoes are seen as an essential means of protecting feet from scrapes and other abrasions.

It’s worth noting that adult footwear is trending towards a more minimalistic look which has helped shoe manufacturers to re-evaluate what is important in a shoe.

       Support

The secondary role of any shoe is to provide support. This is especially important in children. A shoe should support the arch of the foot, but, this is only actually necessary in older children. Children under 4 aren’t active enough for the arch support to matter. Select shoes with arch support at this age can actually hinder the proper development of the foot.

However, plantar support is important from a very young age.  The loading pattern of a foot is relevant from when a child is as young as 2 ½ years old, which means a shoe should have cushioning under the heel.

It is also important for shoes to offer forefoot flexibility, the range of movement can be significantly different in children to adults, it’s essential to choose shoes that allow the forefront of their feet to move in all directions.

Once children hit 14-15 years old their feet will stop growing and their needs are effectively very similar to adults, allowing you to comfortably purchase adult shoes for them. At this stage, the important factors are motion control and support at the rear of the foot.

Photo by Markus Spiske temporausch.com from Pexels

       Style

Although it can be argued that style is not very important in the correct development of feet. Style is an important consideration when you choose shoes and when your children are old enough to appreciate what they are wearing.

This is actually the reason that so many children’s shoes look similar to adult ones.

Additional Factors

By understanding the role of the shoe and how it supports your child’s foot and ongoing development, you can choose the right shoe for your child. But, you should also consider
these additional factors:

       Minimalistic Shoes

The current movement towards minimalistic shoes is actually a good one and worth considering for your child. Minimalistic shoes allow your child’s foot to develop more naturally, they are worth considering.

       Know Your Child

Your child may have a weak front foot, back foot, or a weak arch. You need to have a good look at their foot and even consult a pediatrician to ensure you identify weak areas and choose the shoes that give the right support.

We hope these tips will help you with your shoe buying process for your child.

A Quick Guide to Finding Endless Blog Post Ideas for Your Mom Blog

As a rule, starting your first blog is so exciting that you literally can't get away from hundreds of ideas that swarm in your head. Most people are feeling super inspired and passionate, making their first steps in the field. The flow of ideas doesn’t seem to stop. But what happens next?

After several months of writing, most people burn out and lose inspiration. It is not like they don’t want to do it anymore or don’t enjoy writing; it is just that they no longer have a clue what to post about.

Photo by Arnel Hasanovic on Unsplash

Running a mom blog is especially hard. At any time, your children may require most of your attention as they get involved in afterschool activities or just want more time with you.

To complicate matters, over time, blogging transforms into a full-scale chore rather than being just a hobby. That’s when you may face the real challenge. Overcoming this period of burnout is possible but not always simple. Some people decide to take a break, while others prefer to get professional help from https://essaypro.com/ while they recover and come up with new ideas.

Are there any other options? If you don’t want to stop and want to go all the way yourself, but it feels like you have no creative juices left, there still is a solution! In this article, we are going to give you clues on how to find endless ideas at any time. Let’s get to it!

Regardless of the chosen niche, most bloggers face the same issues, such as loss of creativity and inability to come up with fresh ideas.

However, don’t give up on the job you love just because you don’t feel those creative juices rushing through you anymore. This happens to many people, and in most cases, it is only a tough period that you need to overcome.

If you are currently facing such a problem, use the guide below to open an endless source of ideas for your mom blog:

Photo by Andrew Neel on Unsplash

Follow the Influencers

Probably all of us have at least a couple of great blogs from our niche in mind. Do you read them? If no, this is just the right time to give them a quick look and, hopefully, get inspired! 

Even if you can’t recap any blogs you read, you can look up the most popular mom blogs on the Internet and find some inspiration there.

Looking at how the niche’s influencers work can give you enough ideas to get back to actively posting.

They have a vast audience, so every post they make is polished and unique, which makes them a perfect source of ideas. No copy pasting, though. We all need to respect the readers not to lose them because of similar posts.

Use Topic Generators

Can’t come up with a perfect headline for your next post? 

On the Internet, there is plenty of topic generating tools that can come in handy! Such tools help writers compose catchy and neat headlines related to their keywords in a matter of seconds. 

Social Media Platforms

Of course, writing an actual blog is much different from being an influencer in social media. However, don’t neglect using platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, or Twitter for finding inspiration.

Here is the thing, millions of people around the globe use popular social media platforms. Every active user makes regular publications or reposts from others. 

This generates a broad base of content, including pictures, videos, written materials, memes, and much more. Why not use all of it to your benefit?

Have you found a hilarious story about motherhood or a helpful video guide? You can turn this into fresh ideas for a new post!

Pay Attention to Readers’ Comments

Even if you didn’t realize this before, readers’ comments could be a great source of inspiration at all times! Often, readers share their thoughts and stories under the posts they liked, and these stories could turn into some nice post ideas.

Therefore, be sure to pay attention to what your readers have to say. Also, you can check out comments on other websites on related topics.

Ask Your Audience for Advice

If it feels like you still can’t decide what you should write next, why not ask the audience who reads you? Do you have an email subscriber list? Great! Then drop them a short newsletter or create a survey to find out what your audience craves.

Google Analytics

Products created by Google always make our lives easier, and lack of inspiration for your mom blog isn’t an exception. 

Google Analytics allows one to look at the platform from an analytical perspective and find out which of previous pieces were the most popular and which don’t seem to come to the audience’s liking.

Having such stats should help you choose the right direction and maybe even refresh some of your old popular publications' ideas with a series of related materials.

Services That Gather Content Across the Web

Have you ever heard of platforms like Alltop or Buzzsumo? If not, you are missing out on a great deal of inspiration. Such websites gather stories on various topics from the most trending sites. 

Using such services, you can conduct quick research based on some relevant keywords (for example, early education, parenthood, children, etc.) and find out what content specialists like the most in your niche. This could be another source of ideas for you.

Photo by J. Kelly Brito on Unsplash

Final Words

For many moms, who are forced to stay at home, blogging becomes a real-life savior. It is an excellent way of expressing themselves, sharing experiences, socializing with like-minded people, and keeping themselves busy. 

Besides, running a mom blog can give you a stable and potentially high income. Doesn’t that sound like a dream job? It does, but it is still not that easy!

Being a blogger, you may experience various issues such as writer’s block, lack of inspiration, new ideas, etc. 

Therefore, it is crucial to have a backup plan that would let you generate excellent ideas even when you are at your least creative period.

Hopefully, this list will help you find the source of endless blog post ideas. Follow this simple guide, and your blog will prosper!

5 Most Popular Water Filtration Technologies For Homes

It doesn’t matter whether your water comes from a well or the main treatment works, you need to be confident that it is clean and safe to drink.

There are many ways in which bacteria can get into the water supply, this is why every home should invest in a water filtration system.  Of course, there are several different types of water filtration device, you’ll need to choose the one that best suits your home and your budget.

Before you invest in any water filter system you should be aware of the different types available and speak to a reputable supplier of water filters Sydney

Photo by Kaboompics .com from Pexels

1. Activated Carbon
This is arguably the most popular type of water filter. It is the one you’ll find in jug style filters and the slim containers that bolt into your mains supply line.

Water passes through the activated carbon and sediment, chlorine and VOC’s attach themselves to the carbon. The water that leaves the filter is cleaner and tastes better.
It’s important to note that this type of filter needs to be changed every 2 months.

2. Reverse Osmosis
This type of filter needs to be changed every year but, it is remarkably effective at eliminating nitrates, heavy metals, dissolved salts, and an array of organic and inorganic compounds.

Again, you’ll notice the taste difference and even the color of your water should appear clearer.

Reverse osmosis is also effective if you need to soften your water, which makes it essential in hard water areas.

3. UV Water Filters
A UV filter mimics the sun. UV rays are concentrated on the water, effectively killing any bacteria present. This type of filter can destroy most living organisms but it can’t remove any debris or sediment from your water.

You may prefer to use it in conjunction with a second water filter. You will need to change the filter annually.

4. Chlorine Filter
Chlorine is used by most treatment centers to eradicate bacteria in the water. However, it has also been linked with undesirable effects on your health. For this reason, you may want to use a chlorine filter to cleanse your water. The best one to do this is the carbon filter mentioned earlier.

However, if you source your own water, perhaps through a well on your land, you may want to use a chlorine filter to add chlorine to your water and effectively kill any microorganisms in the water, making it safer to drink.

Of course, you may then want to use a carbon filter to remove the chlorine…
You will need to refill the chlorine when it runs low.

5. Multi-Media Filters
This type of filter is designed to remove contaminants and sediment from your water. Again, it is considered essential if you have your own water supply. It can also be useful if you feel there is too much debris coming down the pipes to your home from the treatment center.

There are different choices of media depending on which types of contaminants you want to focus on.