With a new month around the corner, I start to think about goals for myself and reflect on the previous weeks. There is something about the beginning of a month that is refreshing and exciting for me personally. With so much out of our control (especially now) I like to focus on what I can control in my day to day. Of course not every day is perfect, which is all part of the journey and is where I tend to learn the most. However, there are so many good things implemented in my daily routine that have now become second nature that I wanted to share. I will say some of these habits or routines took longer than others to build and get to a place where they became automatic. Time and consistency are always your friend when creating something new….as well as grace!

What are some healthy habits you implement day to day? I would love to know!

1.Waking Up Before The House 

This has become such a sacred time for me. I finish teaching an hour before my son gets up to carve out “me” time. I started doing this once we moved, and I will never go back. I heard the motto “wake up the day, don’t let the day wake you up” and it really resonated with me about creating intentions in the morning and having that time.

2. Water

I have mentioned before I am a huge water drinker. I have a 40oz hydro-flask that I love to keep me on track since I only need to refill it a couple of times. Drinking water makes such a difference all around and can be something simple to implement. There are so many different systems to track your intake if that is a personal goal. I also bring my hydro-flask everywhere so it is a constant reminder to drink.

3.Vegetable With Every Meal

I have always enjoyed vegetables, but there have been many seasons where I was barely eating any throughout a day. I am now at a place where I implement at least one serving with each meal. It keeps me full and most importantly provides value to my health. I don’t follow any diet or eating plan but try to focus on giving my body nutrient dense foods.

4.Mind Fuel

This can look different for everyone, depending on personal preference. I like to listen to podcasts or trainings that are uplifting and educational. I also enjoy reading different books that are geared to self growth/development as well as journal (gratitude), practice affirmations, and pray.

5.Movement

This does not have to be an intense workout. Any movement is good for your body. I enjoy following some type of fitness program to challenge myself and keep myself accountable, but it can be whatever is best for you. Find what you enjoy doing and implement whatever that is!

6.Sunshine 

There is nothing better than getting outside! My son and I love our morning walks and look forward to it everyday.

7. Vitamins/Supplements 

This is such a personal thing since we are all so different in what our bodies need. If you are ever curious about any deficiencies, you can get blood work done and discuss with your primary doctor. Supplements can be anything from a greens powder to a collagen powder and can be completely tailored to your needs.

8.Making Your Bed

Although I love a made bed, I think the act of making your bed is what is more important than the bed itself. It starts your day with you accomplishing a simple task which can snowball into more accomplishments/productivity throughout the day.

9.Self Care

This does not have to be some elaborate thing that you only do certain times. Doing something for yourself every day is so important. It can be as simple as your skin care routine, to reading a book, to having 10 minutes of alone time.

10. Maintain A Learning Mindset

It is a journey, and we continue to learn, evolve, grow, and improve with trial/error and time. Try new things, challenge yourself, and be kind to yourself along the way!

Blessings,

Jac

My two year old is not a fan of getting his hair cut…like at all.  Many tears have been shed over getting his hair trimmed and each time I would pray we were the only ones in building. After a few visits I decided I was going to purchase some scissors and attempt them at home. I have now been cutting his hair for a few months, and he has done great! I currently only use scissors since his hair is fine (and he is freaked out by clippers)  but have ventured out with my husband’s hair.  I  wanted to share some things to consider if you plan on cutting your toddler’s hair at home and what has worked well for us!

1.Find A Good Spot

I have tried a chair, on my lap, and the bathtub. My son prefers the bathtub because he isn’t too confined and I can quickly clean up once we are done. Test out a couple of different spots and see which place your child responds to best or prefers. If your child is in a chair, I recommend cutting outside so there is no clean up.

2.Provide Entertainment

Having your toddler distracted is key! I allow my son to watch an episode of a show to keep his head looking a certain direction and still. I have tried toys, books, etc, however his head would move too much or he wouldn’t keep it in a certain direction long enough which extended the whole process. Using his IPAD has worked great for us and is a special hair cut treat!

3.Purchase The Correct Tools

Definitely invest in some scissors, clippers, and comb. I also use a spray bottle to keep his hair damp throughout! It makes it so much easier having the right tools. Here is what I use!

Clippers (husband), Scissors, Spray Bottle

4.Start Small & Follow Their Lead

I was pretty nervous starting out so starting small and cutting only a little helped me become comfortable and used to cutting hair. I had to learn how long my son could stand there for me to do it and what worked best for him to become more efficient. His hair cuts now take around 10-15 minutes which is great!

5.Make It Fun

I like to make it a special time for him by watching a show and eating a favorite snack. It is something he now enjoys and a special thing we do together.

 

** I also recommend watching videos on cutting hair in general. This helped me so much not only for my son, but also my husband. You definitely become more comfortable each time and better with practice!

Blessings,

Jac

My son and I recently spent the last week at my parent’s house to welcome my brother’s first child into the world. It was so nice to have a change of scenery after being home the last two months! They live on a beautiful wildlife reserve, so it is always feels like a mini vacation when we go. I always plan to exercise or workout when I travel/vacation, however sometimes that doesn’t happen the way I intended (which is okay). While I was there, I started thinking about what I have learned over the years to keep myself moving with travel. I thought I would share my top five tips today!

 I would love to know what has worked best for you!

1. Have A Game Plan

You do not have to have every single day laid out because that can be overwhelming and feel like a huge task (especially on a trip). However, having some type of plan will be extremely helpful in staying accountable with yourself. It can be a specific workout program you are following, something you created yourself, or classes you signed up for.

2. Take Advantage Of Where You Are

If you enjoy being outside, take advantage of where you are traveling to. Go for a hike in the mountains, jog on the beach, run the track around the boat. It’s so nice to move while getting fresh air and enjoying the place around you!

3. Choose A Good Time Of Day

Decide what time of day works best for you with whatever trip you are on. For example, if you have jam packed days, the mornings may work best before you exhausted at night. If your vacation is more relaxing, maybe mid-day or evenings are more desirable. Decide when you are going to incorporate exercise so you aren’t falling into the excuse trap each day.

4.Have A Buddy 

If possible, have someone join you! It is way more fun to exercise with someone else and gives you something to look forward to together.

5.Sign Up For Classes

If you regularly enjoy classes at home, find studios/classes you can sign up for while traveling (if applicable). When you pay for something, you are way more likely to follow through and classes are always a fun and different way to move or switch things up.

Bonus: Bring Equipment 

If you are traveling by car, bring some equipment if you won’t have access to any. I like to bring a heavy/medium set of dumbbells and resistance bands. Of course you can use your own body weight, however it is also nice to have a few things on deck.

 

 

What are some ways you stay accountable when you travel? 

Blessings,

Jac