• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Its a Hero

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Sponsor and Advertising
  • Categories
    • recipes
    • brews + food
    • wellness
    • events
    • dairy-free
    • money saving tips
    • Explore Ohio
    • Family Travel
    • tips + tricks
    • Instant Pot Recipes
    • giveaway
    • printables

review

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

The Kimpton Schofield Hotel Cleveland + Jeni’s Ice Cream // A Match Made In Staycation Heaven

July 22, 2019 by Rachel 13 Comments

I’ve been dreaming of one thing for the last 7 years. And last night that dream became a reality. I had my first every staycation, completely alone! 

Sunday afternoon I headed up to Downtown Cleveland to stay at the Kimpton Schofield Hotel to celebrate two things — freedom and National Ice Cream Day!

The Kimpton Schofield Hotel, located directly in the heart of the action on Euclide Avenue, just launched a partnership with local (and now national!) ice cream icon, Jeni’s Ice Cream! And personally, I am HERE FOR IT.

My Mom-Staycation began the moment valet took my keys. At that moment “mom” was off the clock! Moments after unpacking in my room, room service arrived with two pints of Jeni’s Ice Cream and an ice-cold bottle of Prosecco.

A few sips of prosecco and a few spoonfuls of Jeni’s Honey Vanilla Bean were just the welcome I needed. I breathed a collective sigh of relief from all of the motherhood stressors of the last 7 years. It’s amazing how taking time for self-care can change your entire mood, am I right?!

After enjoying my welcome amenities, I stood in awe of the city views from my room windows. Across the street was the iconic Downtown Heinen’s, located in the historic Cleveland Trust Rotunda Building. It was breathtaking to see my favorite city from this angle.

Later, I dined at the incredible on-site restaurant, Parkers Downtown. Yes, I had a solo reservation; and, no, I had no qualms about it.

To start, I ordered a glass of their dryest red. To some, dining alone (or, heck!, even having a glass of wine alone) in a restaurant would be intimidating. But for the first time in a while, I was able to enjoy my dining experience. No kids, no extra chatter, just quiet.

Everything on the menu sounded incredible and I definitely ordered more than I could possibly eat by myself! I ordered the artisan cheese board, loaded fries (with goat cheese and bacon), and the Korean Fried Chicken Sandwith (with kimchi and aioli on a brioche bun). Y’all! It was INCREDIBLE. All of it! I tried my best to dine as slowly as possible (a small luxury for those of us with kids), but I am guessing I only lasted about 20 minutes before throwing in the towel and bringing the rest back to my room as leftovers.

Nonetheless, my experience was perfection. The service was so thoughtful, the meal was beyond delicious, and everything was overall exceptional. I look forward to trying out their brunch and happy hour in the future.

My post-dinner excursion included a walk down Euclid Avenue and a loop down East 4th before heading back to my room to revisit those Jeni’s Ice Cream pints! Honestly, as nice as it was to be ‘away’ from everyone and everything, my room at the Kimpton Schofield was so relaxing and inviting with its cozy bed and original artwork, I didn’t want to leave!

SO many thanks to the Kimpton Schofield team for hosting me for an amazing staycation!

What’s your favorite

staycation activity?

 

Filed Under: #MomLife, brews + food, busy mom, children, cleveland, deals, explore locally, Explore Ohio, Family Travel, mommyhood, money saving tips, NEO, Ohio, pampering, parenthood, restaurants + bars, review, road trip, shop local, Travel Adventures Tagged With: #MomLife, being a mom, busy mom, cleveland, deals, explore locally, explore Ohio, Family Travel, mommyhood, money saving tips, NEO, ohio, pampering, parenthood, review, shop local, travel, Travel Adventures

Explore Ohio // Family-Friendly Summer Fun at Pinecrest

June 9, 2019 by Rachel 14 Comments

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY PINECREST BUT THE CONTENT AND OPINIONS EXPRESSED HERE ARE MY OWN.

 

Summer may not ‘officially’ start for another couple of weeks, but our local schools have been out for a couple of weeks now and we are in full-swing Summer mode!

I purposefully adjusted my Summer work schedule to maximize the time that the kids and I can spend time doing things we enjoy the most — like visiting museums, hitting up the library, and exploring local events.

And we are VERY excited to check out all of the family-friendly events taking place at Pinecrest in Orange Village!

If you haven’t yet been to Pinecrest, you’re truly missing out. Between the shops and restaurants, it’s also an amazing community of vendors and Cleveland supporters. And the family-friendly Summer event schedule is jam-packed with incredible opportunities to visit, explore, and open doors to adventure!

If you visit today, there is a Give Gifted Summer Marketplace taking place in Pinecrest’s Central Park and it features small-shop vendors like Little Red Bird Custom Cookies and Art of Sucre (whose kid doesn’t love cut-out cookies and fancy cotton candy?!). And every Sunday through the Summer they will feature a free concert series called “Simple Summer Sundays,” which sounds like a great way to wrap-up the weekend.

Weekday events like this Tuesday’s Pinecrest Play Days with NEO Parent are just as easy to come by. My crew and I will be there to kick off the season with their inaugural event, which is conveniently themed Summer Camp Out. The event will feature crafts, games, prizes, snacks, balloon art, temporary glitter tattoos, and more. It’s sure to be a fantastic way to keep the kids busy and entertained!

Other family-friendly events include:

  • Outdoor Movie Nights (Weekly, Wednesday’s at 8:00 PM — to include Ralph Breaks The Internet, Frozen, and more!)
  • North Union Farmer’s Market (Weekly, Saturday’s from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
  • Free Outdoor Yoga Classes (Weekly, Wednesday’s at 6:30 PM)

See below for a full schedule of Summer events!

Bonus Pro-Tip: While you’re there, treat yo’self (and your kids) to an extra special treat from Duck Donuts, Condado Tacos, or Pinstripes for Brunch! You won’t regret it.

What event

are you most excited

to attend?

 

Filed Under: #MomLife, Akron, brews + food, busy mom, children, cleveland, creative, date night, events, explore locally, Explore Ohio, family, Family Travel, life with a toddler, mommyhood, NEO, Ohio, parenthood, restaurants + bars, review, shop local, Summer Bucket List, Travel Adventures Tagged With: #MomLife, akron, being a mom, brews + food, busy mom, children, cleveland, creative, date night ideas, events, explore locally, explore Ohio, family, Family Travel, life with a toddler, local, mommyhood, NEO, ohio, parenthood, restaurants + bars, review, shop local, Summer Bucket List, Travel Adventures

Travel Tips // Getting Peace of Mind with Guardian Alarm

April 18, 2019 by Rachel 24 Comments

This post is sponsored by Guardian Alarm but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Well hello, spring! I feel like we’re finally pulling out of our season of hibernation and are about to enter the season of travel.

This Easter weekend we’ll be taking our first trip away from our new home since our big move in December. In anticipation of this trip, Chad and I decided it was time to get some peace of mind by having Guardian Alarm come out and install a security monitoring system.

Years ago (which seemed like another lifetime) I heard several stories from people who had just had a break-in. It was heartbreaking on so many levels. What was most rattling was that these people — often times parents with small children — no longer felt safe in their own homes. From that moment on, security has been a top priority. I never want to feel like my safe haven has been violated by a stranger.

When I contacted Guardian Alarm, they walked me through how the process would work — from beginning to end. We discussed areas of the home that I really needed to secure like all three doors, securing the hallway to alert us to potential intruders, and a camera to keep an eye on things.

I definitely want to protect my kids from potential intruders, but I also want to make our lives easier with home automation. So we decided to get the keyless entry deadbolt, a lamp module, and also a combination fire alarm/CO2 detector.

The installation process was so easy and wonderful. Our installer, Megan, walked me through the entire process step-by-step. I had so many questions about which was the ‘right’ way to secure our home. She took the time to answer all of the questions in depth. We even decided to separate the CO2 detector from the fire alarm (at her suggestion) so that we could assure our home would be it’s safest.

Thanks to Megan, the placement of the CO2 detector will immediately recognize as soon as there is a danger or threat to our family — and the monitored system will notify emergency services. It’s amazing.

But most importantly, when we travel this weekend I won’t worry about the fact that we have a very high-profile location. This house sat vacant for many years and I often hear people say “Oh you’re the people who bought that house! We always talked about buying it! It’s such a great location!” And they’re right. We’re right next to our sons’ elementary school.

Unfortunately, this means that there is a good amount of foot traffic, both for the school and the playground. There is a parking lot near the edge of our property. And we’ve noticed that people certainly like to cut through the drive. I plan on using the lamp dimmer switch to remotely turn off and on our living room light at key times during the day and evening and I’ll check in on the property with the camera just for a little bit of extra peace of mind.

Honestly, I can’t imagine entering into this busy season of life (with all of the travel, sports, and other various activities) without having a Guardian Alarm system to keep us all safe.

 

How do you

keep peace of mind

when you travel?

Filed Under: #MomLife, children, Explore Ohio, family, Family Travel, home decor, Home Safety Tips, living sustainably, mommyhood, money saving tips, parenthood, review, road trip, shop local, tips + tricks, travel, Travel Adventures Tagged With: #MomLife, children, explore locally, explore Ohio, family, Family Travel, home decor, home safety tips, mommyhood, money saving tips, parenthood, review, shop local, sustainable living, tips + tricks, travel, Travel Adventures

Maplewood Boutique Fashion Show 2019

April 16, 2019 by Rachel 8 Comments

I am zero percent fashion blogger, but I must say I thoroughly enjoyed @maplewoodboutique’s Spring/Summer Fashion Show on Sunday!

All of the outfits were super cute (SO many jumpers! ?) and I was obsessed with every single accessory (I’m looking at you, amazing purse that I had to physically stop myself from purchasing —  but only ‘cause I’m still in the diaper bag season of life, y’all).

EXTRA bonus?? Incredible brunch fare from the @squarescullery and donuts + cronuts from Crest Bakery.

It was so great getting out of the house for a few hours and enjoying the company of friends while supporting our local female-run businesses.

We sipped, we brunched, and we shopped! The Trailhead at Cascade Lofts is GORGEOUS! The event space is incredible and if you’re looking for a local place to have a wedding or shower, this is IT!

How was your weekend?! What Cleveland or Akron spot did you visit??

Filed Under: Akron, bloggers, brews + food, cleveland, clothes, Explore Ohio, fashion, gifts for her, NEO, Ohio, review, shop local Tagged With: akron, bloggers, brews + food, cleveland, clothes, explore locally, explore Ohio, fashion, gifts for her, NEO, ohio, review, shop local

Bonefish Grill — 3-Course Date Night for Two!

April 1, 2019 by Rachel 10 Comments

Chad and I are rapidly approaching our 7th wedding anniversary. It’s hard to believe that nearly seven years have passed. And in the last seven years, we’ve only had a handful of evenings completely to ourselves. In fact, the last time we actually relaxed at a dinner out was probably two years ago.

Last week Mimi was in town to watch all three kids, so we were able to sneak out for a proper date night at Bonefish Grill. Chad and I were greeted by the friendliest staff at the North Canton location and promptly seated.

We were really excited to try Bonefish Grill’s O M G (Ocean Mixed Grill) 3-course dinner for two! Here’s what’s included in this special offer:

Course 1 // Bang Bang Shrimp

Course 2 // House or Caesar Salad

Course 3 // Potatoes Au Gratin, Seasonal Vegetables, and Jasmine Rice

Course 4 // Caribbean Cobia, Shrimp & Scallop Skewer, Atlantic Salmon and the Local Catch

All four courses for 49.00 with a bonus of select bottles of wine for $25.

I have to admit something, I’ve never had Bang Bang Shrimp before (I know, I know — pure craziness!). Well, friends, I am in love. I could eat Bang Bang Shrimp all day, every day!

You certainly can’t beat the cost of $49 for three courses for two people. It was more than enough food, for sure.

Recommended Add-Ons //

I highly recommend pairing your meal with a bottle of their $25 wines. With options of reds, whites, and rosé, there’s something for everyone!

I also cannot say enough about the Crispy Brussel Sprouts! They were flavored perfectly with the bacon and mayo. So, so, delicious!

And then we were greeted with dessert! First, it was the Molten Lava Carrot Cake (holy smokes — warm and gooey cream cheese in the middle!) followed by the Crème Brûlée

Not only was the food delicious and the service spectacular, but we were actually able to sit and enjoy one another’s company without the distraction of children talking at us for a change.

Hurry up and get a sitter because this special is only good through April 30th! Find your closest Bonefish Grill location here and be sure to sign up to become a Bonefish Insider!

What’s your favorite menu item

from Bonefish Grill?

Disclaimer: I was given a gift card to cover the cost of our meal in exchange for this post.
As always, all opinions herein are my own.

Filed Under: brews + food, date night, deals, desserts, Explore Ohio, money saving tips, parenthood, restaurants + bars, review, wine Tagged With: brews + food, date night ideas, deals, desserts, explore Ohio, money saving tips, parenthood, restaurants + bars, review, wine

  • Go to page 1
  • Go to page 2
  • Go to page 3
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Go to page 18
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner

Blog Archives

Grab the Button

It's a Hero

Recent Posts

  • Easy Cheesy Skillet Pizza Dip Recipe
  • Red Hot Cocoa Bombs Recipe – Instant Pot Friendly
  • Easy Valentine’s Day Cake Pops Recipe
  • Instant Pot Valentine’s Day Truffles Recipe
  • Valentine’s Day Girl Superhero Cards With Printable
  • Game Day Ready with Baked Chili Cheese Dog Bread
  • Instant Pot Copycat In-N-Out Burgers Recipe
  • Instant Pot Cupid Hot Cocoa Bombs Recipe
  • Sheet Pan Pancakes
  • My Wish For the New Year
Collaborate with Rachel Loza on influencer marketing
dealspotr.com
Follow