January Ipsy Glam Bag Review #IpsyGameFace

Every month I look forward to receiving my Ipsy Glam Bag in the mail. I subscribed about two years ago, and I'm hooked! I tell everyone that it is the best $10 I spend. You get a cute bag, 5 beauty products, and FREE shipping for ten bucks! I can easily spend $10 on dumb stuff, so this makes good sense. Also, makeup. Over time I have received products from some of my favorite brands like: Tarte, Smashbox, Urban Decay, Bare Minerals, Caked Makeup, and Doucce to name a few. 

My glam bag subscription has become a part of my self-care routine, and it's nice to look forward to something that is just for me. My older daughter has her own subscription and often gets different products than I do. We have so much fun sorting through our goodies and sometimes trade items. I am digging the January "Game Face" themed bag. The bag itself it so cute. It has a sporty, retro feel. 

Inside the bag: 

• NYX Professional Lip Lingerie in Beauty Mark- goes on creamy with a matte finish. I do love the color, but it has a slight sticky feel initially. Once it wears in, it feels a whole lot better. 
• CIATÉ LONDO Fierce Flicks Liquid Eyeliner- I actually gave this to my younger daughter because I have tons of liquid liners already. This one is supposed to dry quickly and not smudge. Perfect for the cat eye look. 
• BellaPierre Cosmetics StayPut Brow Gel in Licorice- I love the way it is packaged. The brush is on the top of handle and the product is in a jar on the bottom. I tried it and don't really care for it. The gel didn't apply as well as my normal brow makeup. I gave it to my older daughter and she seems to really like it. 
• BeFine Skin Care Exfoliating Cleanser- made with all-natural ingredients brown sugar, almond, and oats. It leaves your skin crazy smooth, and soft. It also moisturizes. I will definitely be buying this in a full-size tube. 
• BioRepublic Skincare Sheet Masks- I got two: Aloe Rescue & Pomegranate Crush. I haven't tried them yet, but the product description makes them sound promising. Here are the details: These eco-friendly masks are 100% biodegradable. Aloe Rescue has phytocollagen, aloe vera extract, and Vitamin E to soothe and moisturize dry skin. Pomegranate Crush is loaded with antioxidant-packed pomegranate extract and vitamin E to hydrate, brighten, and smooth *all* skin types.

I am happy with my January glam bag overall. Even though I couldn't use all of the products myself, my daughters were able to. It makes it worth it. I can't wait to see what I get in February. If you are interested in receiving your own monthly Ipsy Glam Bag, you can use my sign-up link. I will get 250 points for every sign-up I receive to use towards products. If you become a subscriber, you can refer friends and get points too! They add up quickly since you get more points if you do a quick review on the Ipsy site. So far I have cashed in so many points that gave me around 6 freebies. 

Ipsy is a great way to try products out before you consider buying the full size. Do you have a favorite monthly beauty subscription? I'd love to know! 

Birth Injuries To Baby: What You Could Do About It Legally (Guest Post)

Disclaimer: the following information presented in this article serves only as a general guideline as to what one may experience legally following birth injuries to a baby. If you have further questions, need clarification, or find yourself in this unfortunate situation, it is recommended that you seek the services of an attorney familiar with these types of cases.

Having a baby is one of the most beautiful things in the world. No words can describe the feeling you’d get when you first hold your baby in your arms. However, all your dreams and aspirations for your child would get crushed if you’d find out that he/she is ill-equipped for the rest of his/her life. And to make things worse, you’ll discover that this is caused by someone who you trusted to deliver your child safely into this world. But, there’s no point in letting yourself become devoured by heartache and sorrow. Instead, you should get up and fight for your baby who can’t.

 

So, what could you do about your child’s birth injury legally?

1. Gather information.

You need to gather information as this can help you file your case and claim for compensation.

The information you should gather:

• About your healthcare provider (if there are any previous lawsuits against him/her)
• Names, phone numbers, and addresses of people present during your delivery
• Medical procedures performed on you (such as ultrasound and maternal serum tests)
• Medications you took before and after conceiving (if there are any)
• Medical devices used

Make sure to keep all of this information. Don’t show this to anyone, unless your lawyer tells you to do so.

2. Get a second opinion.

As soon as you noticed your baby’s injury, you should immediately have him/her checked. Go to a different pediatrician, to make sure that you get an unbiased opinion. Ask him/her what’s wrong with your baby and if there’s something that you can do to correct it.

Make sure to take down notes of everything that the physician tells you, as you can use this evidence later on.

3. Hire a birth injury lawyer.

Look for a lawyer who can help you file for compensation for your child. He/she must be experienced in these kinds of cases.

Your lawyer can help you recover for the following damages:

• Medical expenses
• Physical and emotional distress
• Healthcare costs
• Loss of companionship and enjoyment
• Lost wages

You should remember that when talking to your lawyer, you should be honest at all times. Show him/her every piece of evidence you have and information you’ve gathered.

4. File your notice of intent to sue.

If you’re filing a lawsuit against anyone, you would be required to file a Notice of Intent to File a Lawsuit first. This will give you and the defendant a chance to reconcile the case without the involvement of the court.

You should remember to send this to your defendant before filing your case. If you fail to do this, there’ll be a chance that your lawsuit will be dismissed.

5. Complete your complaint.

Make sure your lawyer assesses your case critically. He/she should help you figure out what claims you can file for and will also help you draft the complaint that you can use to file the lawsuit. He/she should also make sure that you understand the case and what you think the court should do.

The complaint will identify:

• You (the complainant)
• Your doctor/health practitioner (the defendant)
• Your doctor’s insurance company
• Hospital or facility that you’re suing
• Your allegations
• Facts that make you entitled to monetary damages
• Legal theory which proves that you’re qualified to the costs
• List of the losses that resulted from your doctor’s negligence or actions

6. Make sure your complaint is delivered.

You should remember to deliver your complaint to the defendant/defendants after you’ve filed the complaint. Make sure that your doctor, your doctor’s insurance company and other health providers involved have the copy of the complaint. This will ensure that the defendant/defendants are well aware of the charge and have the opportunity to respond.

7. Wait for your defendant/defendants’ response.

Usually, the defendants will counter your complaint and file a motion to dismiss it. You shouldn’t be surprised if they do this, as this is part of the litigation process. However, if your case is secure and your evidence is complete, your lawsuit should survive.

 

8. Get ready for the settlement.

After your lawsuit survives the motion to dismiss, the defendant/defendants will try to offer you a settlement. When this happens, you have to consult your lawyer before deciding on what to do next. Ask your lawyer how much would put your child’s best interest forward. You can also ask other doctors for help. The doctor can help you understand the total costs that you will most likely face as your child grows up.

9. Be prepared for the trial.

If you and the defendant/defendants are unable to resolve the case through settlement, the next step is presenting your case to the court and prepare for a trial.

Be sure to attend the trial, and have your completed documents ready. Never forget to always be in contact with your lawyer, as he/she will be able to guide you throughout the process.

During this process, you should never forget the reason why you are fighting: your baby. Though no amount of compensation can ever pay for what your baby is going through, you should still put your baby’s welfare on top. And remember that you’re also doing this for others, so that they may never go through what you’re going through right now.

Dianna Charles

Dianna Charles is a promising young law enthusiast that hopes to bring her youthful spirit in her field. She tries to add a refreshing modern take to topics on the legal world that people can learn from. Dianna enjoys her free time with friends and family, and loves to cook for them.

Easy Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If you are stuck on what to make for dinner, I have a great idea for you. I make a chicken broccoli casserole that is not only delicious, but it is super easy. My daughters love having leftovers to take to lunch the next day. This is one dish that never gets wasted, and is a great option to make for a friend or family member who could use a home-cooked meal that will last a few days.

Before I share the recipe, I wanted to mention that you can substitute some ingredients for fat-free or low-fat if you are cutting calories. It will still be just as delicious.

Easy Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients:

3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 small can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 8-ounce container sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
16 ounce bag of frozen broccoli florets
3-4 cups of cooked rice
2-3 thinly sliced green onions
salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika
cooking spray or butter for baking dish

Directions:

1. Place chicken breasts in pot of water with desired seasonings. Bring to a boil and cook about 25 minutes. Drain water and chop chicken in small pieces (or shred). Set aside in fridge to cool.
2. Mix soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, half the green onions, and half the shredded cheese. Add in chopped chicken and season to taste. Garlic powder and red pepper flakes add a nice kick. 
3. Quickly boil broccoli in salted water for 1-2 minutes and drain. 
4. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray or coat casserole dish with butter. Layer rice on bottom of pan evenly, then layer broccoli on top of rice. Next, layer with the creamy chicken mixture on top of broccoli layer. Top with remaining cheese, green onions, and a sprinkling of paprika. 
5. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy! 

Tips:

• You can substitute chicken breast with chicken tenders. I find that tenders are less "stringy" and are well, more tender. 
• You can omit the green onion if you are not a fan of onions, but I like the flavor and color that it adds to the dish. 
• You do not have to use frozen broccoli. It just makes it so much easier, and is a time saver.
• The paprika is optional, but it really adds nice color and minimal flavor.
• If you want to make a casserole to share, just separate into two smaller baking dishes.  

I hope you make this recipe for your family. Let me know if you do. Thanks for stopping by.

5 Places to Meet New Mom Friends in New York City

New York City is one of the most popular places on earth. The hustle and bustle of the Big Apple never stops. Traffic rages, pedestrians travel, and the city lights burn right through the night. Raising a baby in New York City is no easy feat, doing it requires a support group.

Photo by Ralph Chang from Pexels 

Many new people that have relocated to New York City fond it challenging to meet new friends, so finding your new mom squad may be tough. However, if you know your way around and where to go, then there are plenty of places you can visit that will present you with the opportunity to make new mom friends. Here are five ways you can meet new friends in the world’s most famous city.

#1 Parks and Playgrounds
Bridge Park Pier 6 in Brooklyn, Union Square Playground, Bleecker Playground in Manhattan, and Hudson River Park Pier 25 are great places to meet new moms. Remember to keep your eyes on your child at all times but when they are digging in the sandbox or playing on a swing set, take the opportunity to strike up a conversation with a mom nearby. Some of the most fabulous friendships are made in the playground.

image credit

#2 Online Mom Chatrooms
Social media has connected us in a way that gives us instant access to social groups at the click of a mouse. Join up with some local New York City mom’s groups. Astoria parents, UES Mommas, and Madison Square Park Moms are all fantastic Facebook groups filled with hundreds of friendly moms that are always willing to help out. As you get to know people, you will discover moms that live nearby, and you can arrange to meet for coffee and discuss a playdate for your kids.

#3 New Mom Support Groups
There are many pre-birth classes available across the city. Signing up for a course will expose you to new moms that are thrilled to be experiencing the miracle of childbirth as much as you are. You will all have something in common already, and if you make a friend your kids could end up growing up together as best buddies. Check out your local listings online or visit the nearest YMCA for a class schedule.

image credit

#4 Get Social at Playgroups
Getting your kids into playgroups as early as possible will have tremendous benefit for their social development. Children love to watch and learn, so if you get involved at the playgroup chatting with other parents, you are laying the foundation for your child’s personality to be open and friendly.

#5 Make Friends at the Pediatrician’s office
If you’re waiting at the pediatrician’s office for your child’s latest checkup, start a conversation with the moms sitting around you. Before you open your conversation, ensure you read the body language and facial expressions of the parents sitting around you. This brief assessment will give you a good idea of their emotional state; not everyone is at the pediatrician's office with good news.

The Final Tip
It’s important to get out with your child, so if you are struggling to meet your household obligations and spend quality time with your kid, consider hiring a cleaning service to assist you with the housework. Cleaning services are experts at cleaning good for health purposes, giving you more free time to spend with your kids.

The Best Banana Bread Recipe

A few days ago, I shared a photo of a banana bread I baked on Instagram. I almost always get the comment, "Recipe, please!". I figured I need to start adding more recipes on the blog. I actually found this banana bread recipe years ago, and have tweaked it slightly to my taste. It's so good because you don't need a mixer, and it can all be done in one bowl. Less cleaning is always a good thing! 

Ingredients:

2 to 3 very ripe, large bananas
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup sugar (adjust to your taste)
1 large egg, beaten
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare a regular sized loaf pan either by buttering, using cooking spray, or lining with parchment. Mash bananas and add all wet ingredients, followed by dry. Mix until fully combined and spoon into pan. If you are using walnuts, add them to the top of the batter. Bake for 45-60 minutes. Insert a wooden toothpick in center to test if it's baked all the way. Toothpick should come out clean. Fifty minutes usually does it for me.

Helpful Tips:

I like lining my loaf pan with parchment because you don't have to worry about sticking, and there is almost no cleanup. I also prefer adding nuts on top instead of mixed in for better crunch, and texture. They get nice and toasty from baking.

This banana bread is a winner and my family loves it. Next time you have some overripe bananas hanging around, you should try this recipe. Enjoy!