6 Bible Verses for the Grieving Heart

I've turned to this old post after a rough week. Monday marked one year that I lost my brother. The grief hit hard - the anger most of all - so I dug into the archives. I thought if I ignored the day, it wouldn't hurt. Turns out, I didn't have a choice. But, I do know where to turn, and I am turning quite a bit this week. If you know someone who is grieving, share. Pray. Send hope. Thank you all for your love.
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We had a great weekend - especially with my nephew coming to visit. He comes often, and we all love it so much. He's so great with my kids - his much smaller cousins. I am so thankful my brother raised such great boys. But, as the weekend ended, I suddenly found myself just sad. A few things had popped up over our weekend, and I guess I didn't realize their impact until the weekend was done. 

I have been wanting to write down the verses sent to us in the last few months. These six verses are the ones that help me on tough days, and I will read over and over for my grieving heart. 

When my dad died, I REALLY struggled with anger and turned away from my faith. I was so mad because I had always prayed for the safety of my parents, and this happens. When my brother passed in January, I knew I needed Him to mourn this loss but also mourn as I mothered. I could not turn away this time. 

Isaiah 41:1
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you;  I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Romans 5: 3-5

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Psalms 46:10

He says,“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

Phillipians 4:4-7

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God,which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Proverbs 4: 5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

1 John 5:13-15

I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life. And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.
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Do not fear. Glory. Know. Rejoice. Thanksgiving. Peace. Trust. Believe. That's what I hear the most and what I yearn for as a year passes by, and the grief plays its tricks.

A friend suggested I take these and write them down - keep them bound or even hang them as daily reminders of God's presence. When I first wrote this post, I also explained them in my own words. Looking back at those words seems off now when we just need to hear God.

And I am listening so hard as this hard week closes.

Be blessed, friends! Thank you for your continued support as I navigate an uncharted road. The comments and prayers have been a blessing. 

Making Dinner Easy Again - With Hello Fresh

Disclaimer: The post is sponsored by Hello Fresh. As always, the opinions expressed here are 100% my own. Thanks for supporting Always A New Day!

The meal planning. The grocery store trips. The food prep. The cooking. And don't get me started on the clean-up.

Feeding your family can be tedious - throw in picky kids, and you might as well just pour yourself a glass of wine, pour them a bowl of cereal, and call it a day.

For me, I will take ANYTHING that makes dinner time easier which is why I loved Hello Fresh. They decide the menus, and you decide which of their plans fits best for your hungry family. A couple clicks later, and you have dinner plans for the week. From the ease of ordering to the happy plates that are made, I highly recommend making dinner easy again with Hello Fresh.

And stay tuned for how you can get a discount with your first box!

The Ease of Ordering

Hello Fresh has three menu options to try - Classic, Vegetarian, and Family. You can easily navigate their site (or there's an app for that) to see what's cooking for each plan and pick your shipment date. We did the Family Plan for 4 which gave us PLENTY of food for our little fam - leftovers, too!

The Quality of the Product

Each meal is organized into these convenient boxes - it's all there for you to get dinner on the table ASAP. From the garlic in its separate packages to the cutest little jars of honey, you will get the best products that come fresh and ready to cook.

The Kids Will Be Happy

After a long day, I do not want to fight over just one more bite or hear "I don't like that."  In fact, the kids were even more excited than this tired mom to open the delivery and help cook! For our spaghetti bolognese, this guy asked for my apron to get cracking on peeling those carrots.

And the result? Happy bellies and requests for more pasta, please! WIN WIN.

So next week, instead of loading up the kids and your grocery list, log on and get your Hello Fresh. And how about a little treat? Purchase your first box and use the code KIMR35 for $35 off your first box (first-time customers only). Just click the logo caption below and your world is about to get so much better!

ORDER NOW

It's the little things, my friends. I can't wait for my next box.

What are you cooking this week?

6 Running Tips For A Beginner {Including the Best Running Playlist}

This post has been updated from a previous running post.. New goals and new ideas included. *Affiliate links also used in this post*

In January 2015, I went for my first run. Ever. I ran, stopped, walked, and questioned myself. I really wanted to prove MYSELF wrong so I tried it again, then again. Suddenly, I kept running - mainly because I told myself for so long I would never be able to run. But, fitness saves me, and I love a challenge so I went for it!

As I ran more, I felt stronger - mainly mentally. It felt so good to run, especially at this point in my life. I signed up for my first run - a 10K in February of the same year. Since that race, I have completed multiple 5K races, another 10K, and I will complete my first half in March 2017. What is happening to me?!

I am definitely still a novice (and in no way am I fast), but I wanted to encourage ANYONE who is thinking of hitting the pavement with these SIX running tips for a beginner. Stay tuned for some jams to get you moving, too!

1. Find A Good Training Program

I have this plan saved on my phone's home screen. I also used Hal Higdon for my first 10K. Since I am not an everyday runner, I complete a 2-3 warm-up walk then pray run. Usually, I go a mile then take a minute for a short, brisk walk before going again. When I followed this practice last time, I noticed my pace strengthened after each break. Research a nearby 5K for your first race then find a training plan. Having a goal for me was all I needed as motivation.

2. Start Slow

Really, just follow what your body says. Stop when you need to, breathe, then keep going. Don't worry about mileage - focus on time or a landmark. Set a goal for 20 minutes and see what you can do. Or, claim you'll make it around your neighborhood once before stopping. Everyone has to start somewhere. Even if your pace is slow (like me), you are still doing great!

3. Find Your Gear

I have used multiple running apps, but I do love Map My Run best. Here, you can sync up with other runners and cheer them on! Fitness has always been successful because of the encouragement I receive from others, so I like that I can share my progress. This app also saves your runs so you can see pace, mileage, and time over time.

My other favorite is my arm band that fits securely on my arm. I have tried running belts, but I like to be able to change music or check my status just by glancing on my arm. I'm also loving this headband - I have tons of fly away hairs, and I cannot stand when even one is hanging in my face. This Under Armour accessory fits perfectly to your head without being too tight.

Oh and my new kicks, how I love thee! After months of hesitation, I got fitted at a local running shop. I tried on over 10 pairs with the attention of a professional. These little beauties make me feel like there's a spring in my step - not to mention the comfort!

Belkin Arm Band // Under Armour Head Band // Asics GEL-Nimbus 18

4. Recruit Your Support System

I could not do this alone. When someone is at my pace, I like having them next to me. That is exactly what I did in February 2015. We both stopped at the same time without worrying about pace/place. We just wanted to finish - first or last, it didn't matter. But, on the flip side, if you have advanced running buddies, get their tips. When I run my half, I am doing it with my cousins and nephew They are faster than me, but the thought of them meeting me at the finish line will push me even harder!

5. Jam To The BEST Running Playlist

NOTHING makes me run faster than good tunes pumping through my ears. I've put together this Spotify playlist - RUNNING THE HALF. It's been my running jam this training session. There's a little bit of everything - from praise to rock to some dancing jams. A perfect mix for your run.

6. Know You ARE A RUNNER.

Just because I started running in my late 30s, I am a runner. Just because my pace is pretty slow (let's say advanced aerobic walking :) ), I am a runner! The things we can do with our bodies - no matter our age or skill - are pretty awesome. Kudos to all of us who use the benefits to running to make us better.

If you are a runner (from novice to pro), I'd love to hear your tips/advice!

Have a blessed weekend!

**See where I am linking up each week by clicking on the Mom Tribe page up top! I am excited to add  Momlife Friday Favorites to the fun**

40 Simple Things to Do Before Turning 40

In two months, I turn 40. Many of my friends (including my hubs) hit the big birthday already, and we are just in awe of this happening. We don't feel older (okay - sometimes we do). But, when thinking of all I'd like to do this year, I came up with a list of simple things we should ALL do. I plan to get cracking ASAP. It's time to celebrate being 40, fabulous, and FUN.

1. Do a solo photo shoot (see examples - crazy fun).
2. Read a classic novel.
3. Cook a family recipe.
4. Buy a fancy dress.
5. Watch a classic movie you've never seen.
6. Paint a room a bright color.
7. Write a letter to someone you admire.
8. Put a stamp on it and mail it.
9. Go camping.
10. Run a race.

11. Do a wine tasting.
12. Learn a new social media platform.
13. Sing karaoke.
14. Paint a picture.
15. Hang it in your home.
16. Pick a day to never leave the couch.
17. Binge watch Friends in its entirety. Or Felicity. Or Dawson's Creek.
18. Explore hidden gems in your city.
19. Volunteer.
20. Introduce your kids to your favorite movies from when you were their age.

21. Read a daily devotional.
22. Get up earlier.
23. Stay up later.
24. Make a 5 course meal.
25. Save for a fancy camera.
26. Learn how to use that fancy camera.
27. Realize your worth.
28. Stop comparing.
29. Teach yourself to knit and/or sew.
30. Reach out to a long lost friend.

31. Go to the beach for a week.
32. Celebrate a holiday in a new location.
33. Rediscover your worth.
34. Go back to school if even for one class.
35. Set aside time for phone usage.
36. Be kinder.
37. Get on a budget.
38. Incorporate new ways to workout.
39. Appreciate your spouse more.
40. Hug more.

This birthday is a big one, but it doesn't have to be scary. Celebrate. Make necessary changes. Love each other. Realize we all are fighting battles. And just be you. A happy you.

I do not expect 2017 or life after 40 to be rainbows and butterflies, but I do feel a grace and a strength that comes with this milestone birthday. That grace and strength will help me through the rough spots. I have made it this far in a life of loss and worry; I am so proud of that and give thanks to my tribe and my God. I am pretty sure 40 is going to ROCK.

Stay tuned...

{And don't forget - if you want whiter teeth at ANY age - go enter the Smile Brilliant giveaway HERE.

Hurry! Contest ends this week!}

Nuturing Your Inner Artist: 4 Ways to Express Yourself

I do not see myself as creative - meaning I can't DIY even with a tutorial, and I am not that great at coming up with creations all on my own. When I had to think about what my type of "art" is - it has to be my writing. So though I am not good with a paint brush or a sewing machine, I still need creativity to create my words. I am SO excited Zara Lewis is back to share ways to find our inner artist - expressing ourselves is a key to mental wellness, and I love her ideas to find that expression.

Pablo Picasso once said that every child is an artist: the only problem is how to remain one once we grow up. While you may not be the next Van Gogh, nurturing your inner artist is healthy and many people use art creation as therapy. Here, it’s not about creating a masterpiece but rather about enjoying the process of self-exploration. Art therapy has its roots in the teachings of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung where creation is essential for clearing up the communication paths between the conscious and unconscious and overcoming inner conflicts. For busy moms, art therapy is a perfect opportunity to channel frustrations and learn to communicate more effectively about personal needs; it helps you sort thoughts and emotions, and de-stress. Our surroundings and habits affect us more than we’re aware of: here’s how you can create a positive atmosphere to express yourself.

Mind Your Environment

You must have noticed how certain spaces make you feel cramped, restless, or uncomfortable. Our surroundings have an impact on our mood and also affect our cognitive processes. A study conducted by the University of Minnesota has shown that small adaptions in our environments can significantly boost our creativity. A subtle noise in the background (between 50 and 70 decibels, which is the level of noise found in coffee shops) can actually help you focus on your creative work. And no, your kids fighting in the other room is not considered to be the optimal ambient sound we’re talking about. If you don’t have the opportunity to catch some moments of solitude outside the house, arrange your personal space so that it inspires you. Make sure your working area is not cluttered and that the overall room design is appealing to the eye. There is research suggesting that painting the walls blue or green will help you get creative.

Commit to Exercising

From great writers such as Thomas Mann and Henry James to philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard and Henry Thoreau – they’ve all used walking, exercising, or any type of body movement in order to overcome creative blocks. Science-backed data says it’s true: committing to a four-times-per-week workout regime can significantly boost your creativity in the long run. This way, you’re not just training your body but also your brain which becomes more flexible in finding creative solutions. Your training session helps your mind wander which is the recipe for success in art creation. If you don’t have the time to go to the gym, install your own at home and incorporate exercise into your daily routine. All you need is some commercial gym equipment, a bottle of water to keep you hydrated, and at least an hour of your day. Alternatively, you can try practicing yoga or go for a light jog in the neighborhood.

Find Inspiration in Other Artists  

When it comes to art creation, nobody’s a blank page. We are all influenced by many different complex factors: from the things we see and read to the music we hear, we gradually build our sense of aesthetics and become original by initially imitating others. There is nothing wrong with learning from the best: many modern artists proudly show their admiration for artworks from the past and then create innovative masterpieces that were born out of this collision. It is actually rather beautiful to explore these connections and understand their mechanisms. Discover what artists are there: being a busy mom is challenging but you should always focus on lifelong learning. It keeps your brain in shape and the more you know – the more likely you are to create. Reading books helps you explore different worlds and travel through time and space - without leaving your home. Listening to music can impact your hormonal levels (e.g. release serotonin or oxytocin) and possibly trigger the “a-ha!” moment you’ve been craving.

Find Your Way to Relax

Creating helps you relax while being relaxed helps you create. But when you’re a busy mom with tons of things on your to-do list, taking a deep breath in order to unwind a bit seems like a huge task. You can start by shaking up your morning routine: simply by getting up half an hour earlier and savoring a cup of coffee in silence can make a huge difference. It lets you contemplate about the upcoming day and enables you to truly be present. Meditation and deep breathing exercises also work, along with spa treatments or bubble baths. And good news for wine-lovers: research says that moderate intoxication helps with creative problem solving and triggers the so-called “sudden insights.” As the famous French poet Charles Baudelaire said: with wine, poetry or virtue – be drunk! Inebriation with life supports you in finding inspiration everywhere.  

Art is something that cannot be fully defined but in the broadest sense – it is something that has the power to deeply move us. By creating, we are actually confirming the playful side of our being – the one we forget about in the busyness of our everyday. But we’re all artists of some kind: it’s what makes us human. Take these tips into consideration and ensure all conditions are there to get your creative juices flowing: it triggers a liberating feeling like no other!

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Being in a creative rut can be daunting, but I love these tips to discovering and boosting your creativity. Though my art comes out in my words, I often feel lost and a bit stuck. I love learning new ways to let the creative juices flow!

Thanks so much, Zara, for sharing these encouraging words. You can also read her last Always A New Day post by reading my Best of 2016.

Share how you plan to nurture your inner artist this year. Let's encourage each other!

The Best of Always A New Day 2016

Blogging has saved me this year. From changing my focus after loss to sharing the true mama life I lead, my words are my therapy. These top 10 ten posts of 2016 are because of my family, my friends, and anyone out there who has clicked here to visit my world. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

1. A Mom's Heart - Connor's Story

I have to say I am SO happy that Lauren's words were my top post of the year. Connor is a remarkable little boy who has had quite the fight the last couple of years. His sweet mom's strength is evident in the words she shared for this post.

2. 25 Blog Post Ideas for Any Type of Blogger

Feeling a little blog funk this year made me brainstorm a list of possible topics I could write about on Always A New Day. These topics allow creative writing as well as a glimpse into a mom's daily life.

3. Why We Need To Talk About Mental Health

My dream when writing this post was for just ONE person to know it is OKAY to not be okay. I received many messages, texts, and emails about moms who needed to find a release from anxiety, stress, and depression. Some sought help; some have shared stories I never knew about them. I am relieved and honored to know people heard every word.

4. 7 Questions To Ask Your Kids After School

This one was for my big boy as he started another school year. So far, it's one of my top pins on Pinterest too. I love that people are using these stems to talk more with their kids.

5. Achieving Emotional Balance - 3 Ways To Get Rid Of Mommy Guilt

Thanks to Zara Lewis for this guest post. Just like the mental health post, I think many moms needed to hear others are drained, too, and how we need to find ways to recharge and remind ourselves how tough we are.

6. A Letter To The Mom Battling Anxiety

My Huffington post piece! I tried to get my "type" of anxiety into words - from the constant battles in my head to the fears I face daily. We are in this together, and I am thankful for the comments/support I received when sharing my heart.

7. How She Saved Me - A Letter To My Daughter On Her Third Birthday

Oh my little boo. From the feisty threenager that she is to the twirly-dress wearing girl - she has SAVED my family this year. I hope she one day reads this and hears every word - she rescued me in 2016. This sweet, carefree love is our saving grace.

8. 5 Ways To Handle A Threenager

And just as she saves me, she makes me a bit nutty, too. But, through this rough year, it's her crazy antics and spunky personality that bring me back to earth and shows me what's worth living for every single chaotic day.

9. The Definition of Friendship

Inspired by the loss of a beautiful friend and the words she shared about friendship, this post reminds us all what a true friend is and how we should treasure these relationships - through the ups, downs, and all arounds of adult life.

10. Family Style Guide - Fall Family Photos In Neutral

I LOVED putting this post together - mainly because it showcased my talented photographer and friend, Jennifer Spencer. She always takes the best REAL photos. Showcasing my little fam and our neutral clothing for the fall involved so many people, and I am happy with how the post turned out!

Thank you again for sticking with me in 2016. My mind is already swirling with all this blog will do in the new year. I am going to hang on tight and remind myself each day is precious. Every single click - even it's just a few - are so important to this anxious but thankful mom.

There is ALWAYS a new day. Let us find joy in each one.

Self-Care with Smile Brilliant

This post has been sponsored by Smile Brilliant. As always, the thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are 100% my own. Thank you for supporting Always A New Day.

I love a good product that will help me feel better as a busy mom - especially this close to 40! Shopping (alone) is one of my favorite things to do, but when I am with the littles, I just grab what I can find and go. In this blogging world, I have learned so much about self-care - because when we look good, we FEEL good from the outside in!

A couple of years ago, I splurged and whitened my teeth through my dentist. Sad to say, but those trays were quite a bit of work and did not yield any results. Round two of whitening my grill was so much different! I am so excited to share Smile Brilliant with you and how it worked for this desperate mama. And stay tuned until the end - you could win a little something for yourself.

The Teeth Whitening System kit includes instructions/materials to make your molds, syringes for whitening/desensitizing, and an envelope to mail your molds to then receive custom trays.

My molds came back in a timely manner, and I couldn't wait to get started. I do have sensitive teeth, but the desensitizing gel you apply first definitely helps any issues you may have once you apply the whitening gel. For my first whitening session, I left the trays in for 30 minutes then gradually moved up to 2 hours a session once my teeth felt comfortable. As Smile Brilliant suggests, I whitened at night - after the kids went to bed, and I had some quiet. I would put in my trays and relax while I caught up on shows or blogged.

The whitening and desensitizing syringes last quite a while so I did not have any issues with running out of either. In fact, Smile Brilliant did offer to send more if needed, but it was not necessary. I am so pleased with my results - definitely more noticeable than my dentist's trays/system. I completed my whitening time in 12 days and will continue to do every few days to finish up my experience.

Ready to join in this self-care experience? If you are like me, it's hard to splurge on yourself when you have to take care of so many others. But, friends, this system is WORTH it. And Smile Brilliant wants to help you with a giveaway!

You could win your own kit to get started on your whitening journey. All you have to do is enter HERE and a winner will be chosen in 2 weeks. Who is ready for a brighter smile in 2017?

You can also use the code ALWAYSANEWDAY to receive 5% off your order for an entire year. Winning!

Not only did my smile get bigger and whiter, but this company has a heart for making people feel good about themselves. And, I am all over a mama feeling beautiful any day of the year!

Courtesy of Smile Brilliant

Writing Your New Year's Resolutions

I just found last year's resolution post about my 2016 plans. Wow. To be honest, it sounded like a stranger wrote them. When my brother passed away in mid-January life changed. And it's still changing.

Now, I am sitting down to think about 2017. It has to be better - just has to be. I don't want to write down too many resolutions because I feel anxiety if I don't make each one happen. But, I do need to write because writing will always be therapy for me. So, I am creating more honest resolutions this year and want to share my template with you.

We are a week shy of the New Year, and some recent down days are trying to push me in a dark hole, but instead, I am giving myself an assignment. I need a good brain dump - mine is swirling with what ifs and what could be for the next year. I may even have a touch of the post-holiday blues - the excitement and buzz are winding down, and those things have been good distractions for grief/anxiety. So here it goes - some thoughts to consider when thinking of the year ending as well as plans for the new one beginning:

• List the highlights of 2016. What did they teach you?
• List the hard parts of 2016. What did they teach you?
• What are you most proud of from 2016?
• How do you plan to continue that success?
• Make a physical goal for 2017 (eat better, get leaner, eat out less, try new recipes, try a new workout)
• Make a mental goal for 2017 (worry less, show more affection towards others, be more generous with your time, sleep more, say 'no' more)

Use this guide as you dump out your thoughts for next year but make them realistic for you. My wish is that all of us busy, tired moms will take more time to remember the person behind all of the duties and obligations - think about what you want for this new year. You can bet I am doing just that because I NEED this year to be good. I need to turn the page to something more.

When I read my resolutions from last year and read about my clean eating plans (hahahahaha) and how I would eliminate anxiety once and for all, it was almost comical. Life had other plans and those plans sure did stink up the place, I am a worrier. I just need to fight harder to not let the worry take over. Grief is going to come in waves, and I will surround myself with all of my highlights and proud moments - my family, my friends, and my sweet readers.

I'd love to hear from you - what are some of your highlights from this year? What do you hope for in 2017?

5 Ways to Practice Reading At Home + A Bookroo Review

I received a Bookroo Box in exchange for an honest review. As always, all opinions are 100 % my own. Thanks for supporting Always A New Day!

Confession: my son should be reading twenty minutes each night. Truth: by the time he's finished his homework and/or his toddler sister has crawled off said homework, Mom is OUT. But, here's the reality - he's getting older and reading is critical not just in school but in life. I want him to not only be a strong reader but to LOVE reading. Time to up my game at home.

And, I am a former English teacher. Granted,  I taught high school, but the skills I can practice with him are the same ones I used with my students. It's a new year, and it's time to be more intentional. My dad passed his love of reading on to me, and I hope to do the same with my kids using these 5 ways to practice and incorporate reading at home.

Utilize Daily Tasks

Words are everywhere! When shopping with your kids, have them read the grocery list to you or have them read signs as you drive. Or, better yet - make yourself a little mobile library. Gather your favorite books and keep them in your car. My son will even read girly books to his sister as we are out and about. It can be a lifesaver to this crazed mom!

Create A Routine

I am talking to myself on this one. By the time bedtime rolls around, I just want to put them to sleep and be quiet. We have been slacking on the books before bed, and I am missing a great opportunity. My son could grab a book or two and take his twenty minutes to read us all a story.

My kids were SO excited to get a package last week from Bookroo - a great company who wants to empower parents to build their children's book collections in an affordable and exciting way through monthly book deliveries These colorful books have been on repeat this week. And though the picture books we chose are geared towards the toddler years, big brother graciously offered to read and re-read this sweet book to his sister. If we can get this routine to keep on going (with all love and no bickering - #praying), both kids will benefit.

Let Them Choose

We love our local library, and my son can navigate his way around now that he knows where certain interests are. He is currently loving any non-fiction piece about the NFL. He may not be reading tough stuff, but he is reading and teaching me more about the game. He even gave me a quiz yesterday :)

Maybe your little one has a favorite book he/she loves to read over and over. That's still a great learning moment for them, but what about variety? That's the beauty of Bookroo - you're going to get new titles that will perk their imaginations more than ever. And if you do receive a book you already have, they will give you $5 off your next subscription. Win-win!

Talk About It

Before you even open the book, look at the title and predict the story. Use the artwork to summarize. Ask them questions about characters, setting, conflict, etc... These conversations will prepare them for school since they will focus on these topics throughout their school years. And when you talk about a book, you get to hear those little imaginations and brains getting stronger - what is better than that?

Listening to my son "teach" this book to his little sister was a really sweet moment. Her book love is growing, and when she has someone read to her, she's pretty smitten.

Be An Example

My dad was never without a book. He would end one only to pick up another right after. Before kids, I did that, too. I even would read books over and over again. Post-kids is a different story. I need to get back to reading and show my kids I still read, and I still learn. I hope my example will rub off on them just as my dad's did to me. With big brother being five years older than his sis, he's definitely an example for her.

How do you incorporate reading into your busy schedules? Bookroo would love to help give the gift of reading. Head over and begin your subscription. Your kids will love these sweet packages that arrive just for them.

And if you do find something that works for you, just use the code: KIMREED at checkout to receive $10 off your first subscription! Also, be sure to check out Bookroo on social media to see all the fun they offer.

Instagram / Facebook / Twitter

My English teacher heart is in Heaven. Happy reading, friends!

A Casual Holiday Dress + A Giveaway

This post has been sponsored by Chicks Picks Boutique. Affiliate links also used.
As always, the thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are 100% my own.

A fashion blogger, I am not, but anything fun for the busy, tired mama? Yes, please! That's why I need to share this dress and more of this boutique. It's no secret that Chicks Picks Boutique is my go-to for kicking up the wardrobe. There are many reasons I love getting my clothes here, and the most important is the owner. Christina is a dear friend from elementary school; and our dads were buddies. We have some sweet memories of growing up, and I love supporting someone who has always supported me! And the clothes...oh the clothes. I have dresses, leggings, and tops I adore.

Lately, I am loving this floral dress courtesy of Chicks Picks. Who says you can't wear floral for the holidays? Need a dress for Christmas Eve or maybe even New Year's Eve? This one is perfect - not to mention the pockets make it even more fun! Most of the pieces you will find in this cute shop are so versatile for the busy mama. Just another reason to love Christina and her pieces.

And for the GIVEAWAY! Chicks Picks is giving away a $25 gift card to one lucky reader.

How to enter:

1. Like Chicks Picks on Facebook -  click HERE.

AND

2. Leave ONE comment on this post sharing what you would purchase

with your gift card (though you may have a hard time choosing).

The GIVEAWAY will close

Wednesday 12/21 at MIDNIGHT (CST) so hurry and enter!

GIVEAWAY CLOSED! Congrats, Page Finley!

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For more holiday fun, don't forget to check out these posts - Christmas is just around the corner!

A Gift Guide for the Deserving Mom

4 Must-Haves for the Perfect Night In

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts

The Definition of Friendship

Another week goes by; more families experiencing loss. I wanted to repost this definition of friendship. My heart is aching, and I can only imagine the hearts of those who have lost a loved one this week. My hope is that you will read this and remember anyone you know who is hurting. Be a forever friend.

It's mid-September; fall is starting to show itself a little at a time. Football games and all things pumpkin define this time of year. You're busy with kids' sports and school carnivals. You've got fun plans most weekends, and you can't wait for those comfort foods to warm you through brisk weather. In the middle of all of this change, a loss this last week made me stop the hustle and pray. My heart is heavy for a sweet mom who just lost her battle with cancer. I had only met her once through my sweet friend, Laura. Yet, when I heard of her passing, I immediately thought of her sweet little ones. Her husband. Her loved ones. Then, I thought of her friends. They fought along side her; they loved her and her family. They prayed and shared and supported. Now, they are hurting.

I recently lost a friend to cancer in March. I bet that cancer has touched the life of someone you know as well. The words I want to say about this awful disease are not pleasant. If there is one thing I HATE, it's THIS stupid thing that takes away so many amazing people. Yet, I also witness the power of friendship during these horribly hard times. Thank you to Laura and Jeri for being so amazing to Amy and for inspiring me. My prayers for you girls are never ceasing.

Life is NOT easy. Adult life is TOO much at times. We lose, we stress, we worry. We can get lost in our own worlds. Oh man, I am SO guilty of this - I can rock a pity party like nobody's business. After a long day, I can shut down. Shut out all those that love me. I can get angry that nobody knows my hurt. I can get completely selfish. But it's a loss like Amy that snaps me back into reality. You would think knowing the pain of loss would have done that long ago.

So, today, in honor of Amy and in honor of those friends who are hurting, reach out to your friends. Forgive the silliness. Stop the silence. Send them this message that Amy sent her friend Jeri this past summer. It's beautiful, and it's the true definition of friendship.

Sometimes in life, you find a special friend. Someone who changes your life just by being part of it. Someone who makes you laugh until you can't stop. Someone who makes you believe that there really is good in the world. Someone who convinces you that there really is an unlocked door just waiting for you to open it. This is forever friendship. When you're down and the world seems dark and empty, your forever friend lifts you up in spirit and makes that dark and empty world suddenly seem bright and full. Your forever friend gets you through the hard times, the sad times and the confused times. If you turn and walk away, your forever friend follows. If you lose your way, your forever friend guides you and cheers you on. Your forever friend holds your hand and tells you that everything is going to be okay. And if you find such a friend, you feel happy and complete because you need not worry. You have a forever friend, and forever has no end.

Jeri, Laura, and all of Amy's friends and loved ones, you are in our hearts and prayers.

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts {Photo Gifts From Mpix}

This sponsored post is coming at a great time for gift-giving. I'm so thankful for the products c/o Mpix! As always, all opinions and expressions are 100% my own.


ALERT: Mom, if you reading this post, stop here. I am sharing just a couple of your well-deserved treats this year and don't want to ruin any surprises!

I love giving photos as gifts - especially to the grandmas!. Since my fab photographer takes great care in getting so many good ones, I want a quality photo printer to keep the life and love in each photo. Mpix is where I go to order these copies, and if you need some last-minute gifts, Mpix offers so many sweet and sentimental options. And I can say with complete confidence that they always provide the best quality over their competitors.

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My mom loves receiving family prints to proudly display in her home. She has quite the knack for arranging and framing each photo. My sweet mama NEVER forgets a birthday as she writes down each occasion as well as stays organized with her appointments and such. What better gift can I give her than a calendar of some perfect photos?

This calendar from Mpix is going to be a big hit. I downloaded my favorites from our shoot and moved them into their calendar template - SO EASY. My favorite part? I paid close attention to May (her birthday) and my kids' birthday months by adding special shots that commemorated that month.

I chose the binding on top, 12x18 calendar option. This calendar is large, but I love how much focus is on the photo itself. You can customize yours with colors, texts, and background options.

Next up on my Christmas gift list are these precious ornaments. The only hard task in creating these is that they are SO many options - shapes, colors, and Christmas greetings. They are metal die-cut ornaments that come with a cute ribbon for hanging. I can bet you my mom won't store these keepsakes - they will remain out all year!

I chose the Good Tidings in blue as well as the Chic Wishes.

If you have a photo-lover in your family, hurry over and create your personalized calendar, ornaments, or any photo gift. You can bet you will receive high quality products that your loved one will treasure. Pin these gift idea for finalizing your holiday gift list!

Don't forget to treat yourself too by looking over my gift guide for the deserving mama. It's not too late to snatch a little something for yourself.

Happy shopping and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Linking up HERE