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Christmas, Credit, and Focusing on What’s Important this Holiday Season

December 9, 2019 by Rachel 30 Comments

Thank you CreditRepair.com for sponsoring this post. CreditRepair.com’s team understands that a credit score is not just a number; it’s a lifestyle.

Being an adult, unfortunately, does not come with a handbook on how to “be.” I can’t speak for everyone, but I can tell you this — I’ve learned the hard way. With practically everything.

My personal credit journey.

I partially blame my struggles on the fact that I just didn’t understand privilege. I was a child of two very hard-working parents. We didn’t take lavish vacations, but we did take vacations. I recently recounted my childhood with a friend. We were talking about how we didn’t know how hard our parents worked and how lucky we were. We were happy to have had our vacations and to not want for anything, but we also didn’t realize the privilege that was afforded to us.

I’m not blaming that on my struggle. No, I created my problems. But I’ve made the mistake of not knowing my parents struggles twice now. I expected to just HAVE. Because that’s what you do. You work and you get, right? Well factor in a mountain of student loan debt (we’re talking Mount Everest) and a desire to fit in? And we have a problem.

The first time I rebuilt my credit on my own (with the guidance of my dad — thanks, Dad!). But fast-forward many years, a husband, and a child later, and it took a bit more help.

kids on a couch

A cry for help.

The second time around I decided I truly needed help. I used CreditRepair.com to help me get my finances in order, get me back on track, and find a clear plan for the future. CreditRepair.com is a leading provider of credit report repair services in the United States. They are a team of credit professionals who educate and empower individuals to achieve the credit scores they deserve. I worked hard, made lifestyle changes, and made plans for my future. I knew I owed it to my growing family to repair my credit and create a better life.

woman with a baby

The holiday spirit.

Part of my struggle with the holidays is the fact that EVERYONE wants to do something extravagant. But I’m beyond that. My number one rule is to NOT go into debt for the holidays. In the end, we’re all exchanging (likely or almost) equally priced treats for one another.

But at what expense? I don’t want my financial security to be ruined because I’m trying to keep up with superficial gift giving. We are all adults. When we want something we work, we save, and we purchase it. And if there’s something that you desperately want, you will get it.

I would rather see the joy on the faces of my children when we are able to take a fun vacation to the beach or go to an event with them. I would rather build memories than give superficial gifts. They will know love and they will know how much the holidays mean. But they will also know that it is more important to avoid financial disaster and avoid going into debt than to celebrate any holiday.

kids with mickey

A quest for financial literacy.

Financial literacy should absolutely be a point of discussion in families, schools, and even work environments, but it isn’t. Until it is, we need to rely on outside resources. CreditRepair.com is there to help.

Your credit score is not written in stone, and you are more than a credit score. CreditRepair.com will help empower  you to work on your credit score, enjoy your life, and make small lifestyle changes to help you achieve your dreams! But your credit won’t fix itself. Get help from CreditRepair.com today with a free consultation and kickstart your credit repair efforts.

Whatever you do this holiday season, please remember that no holiday ‘cheer’ is worth going into debt for. Let’s build our credit scores together with CreditRepair.com.

Getting your credit back on track with creditrepair.com

Filed Under: #MomLife, finance, goals, life, living sustainably, money saving tips, review, shop my favorites, tips + tricks, wellness Tagged With: goals, life on a budget, money saving tips, review, sustainable living, tips + tricks, wellness

Amwell Urgent Care Services: Get Back to Your Routine Faster

December 4, 2019 by Rachel 36 Comments

Compensation was provided by Amwell via Momtrends. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions of Amwell or Momtrends.

Tis the season! Not just for the holidays, but for sickness, too! Between the inclement weather, work and life commitments, and just general busy-ness of the season, there is basically zero time to get to the doctor for an office visit.

Kids eating on the floor

Thanks to technology, we don’t have to worry about leaving the house for Urgent Care visits. Amwell offers online and mobile urgent care visits. They make it easy to be seen by doctors in just minutes to help combat illnesses like pink eye or the stomach flu.

I’ve been using mobile doctors for the last couple of years. Sure, we see our primary care doctor and pediatrician regularly. However, sometimes it just isn’t possible. Last week I was suffering from a headache that I just couldn’t get rid of. At first I thought it was just a headache, but when the pain moved to my jaw, I knew I needed to act.

Amwell App

I took a break while I was at work and I downloaded the Amwell app on my phone. Within minutes, I was connected with a board certified physician. She helped determine that, yes, it was likely an infection. An antibiotic prescription was called into my pharmacy and I was good to go.

woman with smartphone

That was it.

Why use Amwell for Urgent Care Services?

An urgent care visit can be expensive. And, unfortunately, most Urgent Care clinics are not open 24/7. Amwell is available day or night, at home or on the go.

What can I be seen for?

You can be seen for things like Fevers, Colds & Flu, Allergies, Sinus Infections, Stomach Bugs, UTIs, Rashes, Pink Eye, and more. They will not see you for an emergent situation (seizures, chest pain, broken bones, etc).

What can I expect during an Amwell telehealth visit?

You’ll need to create an account and enter in some of your personal information like insurance and health history. You can do this on either your phone or computer.

Then you can browse available doctors, review their credentials, and choose your preferred pharmacy.

Next, your video visit will start. The doctor will review your symptoms and assess your condition and set into motion next steps.

Complimentary Care

It’s still important to establish care with a regularly visited physician. Amwell is great for Urgent Care situations, but they are not a replacement for in-person care nor are they emergency care doctors.

Save on Urgent Care

The cost of an Amwell visit is $69, but if you click here and use the code itsahero you’ll receive 50% off!

Girl with pizza wings

Getting sick care shouldn’t be stressful. Don’t let it slow you down. Use Amwell to get your health back on track while you stay focused on everything else.

phone with app

Filed Under: #MomLife, busy mom, children, doctor, family, health, money saving tips, parenthood, tips + tricks, wellness Tagged With: #MomLife, busy mom, children, doctor, family, health, money saving tips, parenthood, tips + tricks, wellness

Giving Gifts that Give Back

November 29, 2019 by Rachel 19 Comments

After becoming a mom, one thing became crystal clear — Christmas is 100%, entirely about the children. Not just my children, but all children. This holiday season my children and I are using the spirit of Christmas and shopping at Gordman’s to give back to St. Jude’s.

Teddy bear and baby

I took my littlest helper to our local Gordman’s to grab some gifts while the big kids were in school. Since our main prerogative for this trip was a mission to give back, we picked up some toys at deep discounts to donate to our local children’s hospital. This week we are wrapping the gifts and my kids are going to turn them over to kids who will be stuck in the hospital for the holidays.

Bear’s That Care

I also purchased a couple of Bear’s That Care! Bears That Care is a partnership between Gordman’s and St. Jude’s Research Hospital. Gordman’s will donate $2 of each Bear sold this season to St. Jude’s. St. Jude’s believes that no family should have to worry about a medical bill while just trying to make sure their child lives.

Kid with teddy bear

How you can give back

Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday is December 3rd. Consider giving a donation to St. Jude’s Research Hospital this holiday season.

teddy bears under christmas tree

Use the hashtag #BearsThatCare

From now until December 31st, Gordman’s will donate $1 to St. Jude’s for every time you use the hashtag #BearsThatCare on Instagram. How easy is that? If you’re going to use hashtags, add this into your post!

toddler looking at camera with teddy bear

Shop at Gordman’s and buy a Bear

Shopping at Gordman’s for gifts is at a deep discount is a given; but while you’re there, consider picking up the St. Jude’s bear.

Teddy Bear and little boy

Teach your children the power of giving back

As parents, we are delivering lessons to our children daily. Make one of those lessons the tradition of giving back this holiday season. Help in a soup kitchen, deliver toys to the hospital, or donate to a food drive. However you choose to make a difference, get your children involved in the process.

Tell me — how are you going to give back this holiday season?

Gift Giving that Gives Back with Gordman's
boy with teddy bear

Filed Under: charity, children, Christmas, cleveland, Columbus, giving back, gratitude, holiday gift guide, holidays, money saving tips, Ohio, parenthood, shop my favorites Tagged With: charity & fundraisers, children, Christmas, Christmas shopping, cleveland, columbus, explore Ohio, gratitude, holiday gift guide, holidays, money saving tips, ohio, parenthood, shop local, shop my favorites

BLACK FRIDAY DEALS

November 28, 2019 by Rachel Leave a Comment

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you’re having a wonderful time and enjoying the company of your family and friends. I planned on simply sharing these deals on social media today, but it turns out everything is down! That’s right — it’s a Thanksgiving crisis! Instagram and Facebook are DOWN. But I’m still here to share these deals with you.

As a heads up, most of these are affiliate links. I do make a small commission if you decide to purchase something. That being said, everything I make on this goes right back into my blog.

Amazon deals

The Amazon Echo Dot is on sale for $22 (regular price is $49.99).

The Instant Pot Smart WiFi 8-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Saute, Yogurt Maker, Cake Maker, and Warmer|6 Quart|13 One-Touch Programs for $89.99 (regular price $149.99).

The Echo Show 5 is on sale for $49.99 (regular price is $89.99).

B. Toys – One Two Squeeze Baby Blocks on sale for $11.99 (regular price $14.99) — these are a favorite with all of the littles I know.

edx Education Step-a-Logs – Balance Beam for Kids is on sale for $29.66 (regular price $49.50)

Green Toys Submarine – BPA, Phthalate Free is on sale for $7.06 (regular price is $14.99). My kids have LOVED this toy (both in the tub and out).

Fire HD 8 Kids Edition Tablet, 8″ HD Display, 32 GB, Yellow Kid-Proof Case is on sale for $79.99 (regular price is $129.99). This gift is PERFECT for little littles! And it includes a year of Amazon FreeTime Unlimited.

Filed Under: deals, gift ideas, money saving tips, sale Tagged With: deals, gifts, gifts for kids, money saving tips

Kid-Friendly Holiday Decorating Tips

November 26, 2019 by Rachel 31 Comments

This post has been sponsored by Big Lots. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Does anyone else feel like for all of the Christmas songs there should be at least a couple tunes for Thanksgiving? I, for one, am beyond excited to have our family over for our first Thanksgiving in our forever home. Our century-old farmhouse is the perfect place to host and decorate for this special occasion.

In our family, Thanksgiving officially kicks off the holiday season. We all have to be separate places on Christmas morning, but for Thanksgiving, we are always together. This years’ total attendance will be 6 adults, 5 (young) children, and 3 dogs.

I picked up all of the necessary decorations and table settings at Big Lots. They’re both adorable and kid-friendly — on a budget. The rustic holiday look with buffalo check, burlap accents, and red vintage feel was exactly what we need to keep the farmhouse-feel.

Big Lots Kid Friendly Decorating Tips

Kid-Friendly Holiday Decorating Tips:

Limit the breakables.

Instead of trying to keep breakable decorations away from my littles, I just eliminate them almost entirely. The items I’ve decorated with are sturdy, inexpensive, and made of soft or plastic materials. No glass here!

buffalo check living room decor

Get them involved.

Want your kids to respect the items you decorate with? Have them help you pick out the items at Big Lots! Getting them involved in the process gets them excited to have the items displayed in your home.

woman sitting on couch with coffee mug

Also? Kids love holiday chores. Get them excited to have company over by enlisting their help setting the table! My kids treat it like a craft project. They get to ‘put together’ all of the seats, plates, and settings.

woman sipping from coffee mug

Don’t take it too seriously.

I know so many people who take their holiday decorating to a whole other level. That’s great, but it also can set you up for major disappointment when something is out of place or doesn’t look right.

hot cocoa in front of christmas tree

Instead, have fun with it. Do you want to put your tree up now? Go for it! You don’t want to stick to one theme? Then don’t! The holidays should be a fun and happy time for everyone. So let it be.

If decorating farmhouse chic isn’t your thing, Big Lots also has a super gorgeous blue and gold line of decor as well as a colorful line! So something for everyone!

christmas living room

What’s your favorite holiday decor trend this season?

W

Filed Under: Akron, budget, celebration, children, cleveland, creative, holidays, home decor, money saving tips, parenthood, shop my favorites, tips + tricks Tagged With: celebration, Christmas, holidays, home decor, life on a budget, money saving tips, shop my favorites, tips + tricks

Hilton Head Island Travel Tips + Must-Sees!

October 27, 2019 by Rachel 47 Comments

My first trip to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina was just over 2 years ago. From the moment we returned home, we’ve been dreaming and planning our next trip to Hilton Head. Now considering myself a semi-pro at Hilton Head, I want to provide you with all of my go-to places and must-sees! Check out these Hilton Head Travel Tips!

PIN ME - Things To Do In Hilton Head

One thing that was set well in advance was our condo for the week. We stayed at Seacrest Villas, directly on the North Forest Beach, and just steps away from Coligny Plaza.

Our condo was beautiful. It was three-bedrooms, 3-baths, and had a full kitchen and dining room — plus TWO balconies! It was truly gorgeous! And part of me — the super mom part of me — could have had just that and nothing else for an entire week. No responsibilities; not our house; no laundry and cleaning — just that for a week.

But there was so much to do!

Annie O’s Kitchen

We discovered this place by pure chance. We found ourselves upon a child-free evening and had not at all planned it out. Where would we go alone!? Well, a google search later and the results… showed a bunch of other places. But I happened to see the description of this restaurant — their meats, dairy, and eggs, are all-natural and cruelty-free. There are no antibiotics, no preservatives, no pesticides, and sustainable. Basically, totally our wheelhouse.

seafood and biscuits

I had the Chicken and French Toast (what a fun play on chicken + waffles!) and Chad got the flash-fried whole flounder with collard greens.

We absolutely loved the atmosphere and the vibe from the staff. They were incredibly hands-on — the chef even came by to deliver our meals to the table. The cornbread? Bomb. The sweet tea? SO bomb. The desserts?! OMG I can’t even!

After our dining experience, we convinced the whole family to join us for a ‘last hurrah’ dinner at Annie O’s. And the whole extended family all said, hands down, the best food we had during the whole trip!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Join their VIP Club to receive special deals like BOGO 50% off entrees. And make a reservation before you go!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Somewhat. The atmosphere is less appealing to children, but the waitstaff and other employees were super friendly to the kids.

DETAILS: Annie O’s Kitchen. 124 Arrow Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 341-2664

Coligny Splash Pad

The beach, the pool… they can be… exhausting for parents. There’s just so much sand and ‘stuff,’ that kids need. This splash pad was a perfect break for all of us. Located near Coligny Plaza, the splash pad is just off the beach and easily accessible.

splash pad fun

Our kids had a blast running in and out of the fountains — and even made a couple of friends! I suggest hitting the splash pad first thing in the morning before the sun really starts beating down on the kids. But, in case you find yourself there a little later, just know that it does have a little overhead shade, thanks to the awesome trees!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Arrive first thing in the morning for the least amount of overcrowding.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: 100%!

DETAILS: Coligny Beach Park. 1 N Forest Beach, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Skull Creek Boathouse

My sister insisted that we go here. We were having a rough day with the kiddos and I didn’t have even a second to check out the menu ahead of time. But I’m so happy that I put all of my trust in her with this restaurant decision!

View from the dock

When we arrived shortly after 5 PM, the place was already packed with an hour wait for outside seating. As much as we wanted to sit outside, we were also dealing with a time limit thanks to the kiddos bedtimes! Instead, we opted for an immediate high-top table inside. Believe it or not, they have highchairs for the high-top tables, so they could easily accommodate two infants.

Our meals were delicious! I ordered the fried fish and chips and a big side of hush puppies (because, yum!). And Chad ordered a lobster rice bowl that tasted amazing.

Hush Puppies

My sister and her husband loved the Lowcountry boil — and I had some serious food envy of them!

Fish and lemon

After our meal, we headed to the dock to check out the views. On the other side of the dock there is a beautiful outdoor beer garden with picnic tables, sandboxes for kids, and giant connect four games. The live music was a young guy playing guitar and singing up on stage. It was the perfect way to spend an evening!

food and drinks on patio

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Arrive early and be prepared to wait if you are looking for outdoor seating. But also enjoy that time in the beer garden while you wait!
The restaurant will text you when your table is ready!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Really family-friendly! Each child will get to pick a prize from the treasure box after the meal. The outdoor beer garden is the perfect place for parents to spend a relaxing evening with young kids.

DETAILS: Skull Creek Boathouse. 397 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.
(843) 681-3663

Java Burrito

We stopped here, first and foremost, for the Java. But I was so impressed by the food setup that I had to come back later in the week to try it out. It’s nestled in a business park on William Hilton Parkway, so you almost have to go searching for it, but I promise it’s worth it!

Their coffee bar is definitely high-end, specialty coffee, with a huge clientele that prefers a pour-over (hello!? LOVE pour overs!). But they also offer cocktails for those customers who are going to hang out in the cool café for a bit!

Quesadilla and Drinks

As far as the food, they offer Mexican-style burritos and bowls with ingredients that are locally sourced, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Yep – they do breakfast burritos with farm-fresh eggs!

BLT AND COFFEE

I opted for a burrito with chicken, rice, beans, queso, and guacamole. As someone that frequents other fast-casual burrito places, I can tell you that this was far superior to the rest of them. The freshness is something that you can taste!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Take a look at the menu online ahead of time so that you have an idea of what you want to order. Definitely order coffee, too!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Yes, for a quick family meal. But not for lounging around.

DETAILS: Java Burrito. 1000 William Hilton Pkwy Suite J6, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.
(843) 842-5282

Duck Donuts

So I realize that this is a franchise location and not a native Hilton Head Island thing… but for those of us who do not live near a Duck Donuts, checking this out while we’re on the island is KEY.

See, I have a love affair with donuts. I like them fancy and I like them plain — I don’t discriminate! Ha!

fresh donuts

These donuts are served up fresh out of the fryer! We customized our order of a dozen and a half so that we could basically try all of them. Somehow a single plain old fashioned donut ended up in our pack. And I swear to you that is the best darn old fashioned, plain old donut, I have ever had!

fancy donuts

(Good news, Ohio friends — there are several Duck Donuts locations open, including Polaris, Pinecrest, and soon-to-be, Summit Mall!)

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Prepare to wait in line — this place is popular!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Very! The kids have fun watching the donuts being made.

DETAILS: Duck Donuts. 890 William Hilton Pkwy #70, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-3825

Frosty Frog

This little dive of a frozen cocktail bar is located in Coligny Plaza and features about 25 different frozen daiquiri combinations such as a Hurricane, Grape Danger, Sex on the Peach, Piña Colada, and Jungle Juice! Real Talk: They put all of their drinks, daiquiri or not, in styrofoam to-go cups — whether you’re eating in or taking food to go. Also, you’re allowed to walk with the open container anywhere within Coligny Plaza.

The Frosty Frog Cafe and Pizza

We took our daiquiris to go and walked around the plaza a few nights. They were so delicious! My favorites were Jump Start and Grape Danger.

After several visits, we decided to give their pizza a shot. And OMG it’s delicious! Like, really good and the slices are, as Ari would say, GINORMOUS! 

HILTON HEAD TIPS: If there are more than 3 of you ordering daiquiris, save yourself a few bucks and order a gallon to-go. It’s the most cost-effective way to sip some frozen yummies!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Not very. We saw a lot of children with their parents, but it’s really more of a bar than anything else.

DETAILS: Frosty Frog Cafe. 1 N Forest Beach Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 686-3764

Lowcountry Backyard

Located in Palmetto Dunes, this gem of a restaurant serves up local cuisine with some serious Lowcountry flair! We arrived just before 4:30 PM, which is when they open for dinner service. We were quickly greeted with two other families awaiting the dinner ‘bell’! Great minds (and early bedtimes for babies — likely)!

Southern food

The atmosphere in the outdoor seating area is awesome. There’s giant Jenga, a hillbilly golf set, a giant porch swing, and a stage for the nightly solo performances.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Our food did not disappoint. Between the fried green tomatoes, the shrimp and grits, crab dip, and grilled pimento cheese sandwiches, we left… satisfied very full.

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Arrive right when they open to avoid a wait. Sit outdoors.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Very. There is so much to keep the kids entertained, between the games, the music, and the mason jars with lids as sippy cups!

DETAILS: A Lowcountry Backyard. 32 Palmetto Bay Road, #4A, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 785-9273

Pirates of Hilton Head

My husband took our four-year-old on this adventure, just the two of them, as a special treat. The Pirates of Hilton Head is an excursion in Harbour Town (near the lighthouse!) on The Black Dagger! The kids, which range in age from 3-10, in groups of about 20 children (max), learn to speak like pirates, get tattoos, and takedown Stinky Pete with water cannons! Ari had such an amazing time and came home with enough gold doubloons to last him a lifetime! We will definitely be hitting this up with every visit.

guy in a hat

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Check Groupon and other discount sites to see if they have any deals first (they did for us!). Also, make sure you plan to spend some time in Harbour Town because there’s a $6 fee to be in the area, but you will have in-and-out privileges all day. Final tip — wear a small backpack and bring plenty of water and snacks.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Very much so! Especially for kids 3 and up!

DETAILS: Pirates of Hilton Head. 149 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 363-7000

We will certainly be making Hilton Head our go-to vacation spot from here on out. I can’t wait to visit all of these places again! Make sure you pin this for later! xo


Filed Under: brews + food, children, Family Travel, mommyhood, money saving tips, parenthood, restaurants + bars, tips + tricks, travel, Travel Adventures Tagged With: brews + food, children, Family Travel, mommyhood, money saving tips, parenthood, restaurants + bars, tips + tricks, travel, Travel Adventures

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