Lilly is Getting Baptized!

Finally, after almost 2 years, our little angel will be baptized. We were finally able to make arrangements after months of waiting. We were finally able to set the date with the church and with our Filipino community chaplain. I am excited actually, and beginning to make plans... Well, at least in  my head. 😁

So why baptism? 

As a Catholic, it is important to have my children baptized also as Catholics, and raise them to be good children, and learn and understand our Christian faith. Being baptized in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, they become a part of our great Catholic community, who will in a way, also be their support system as they journey in their faith. 

Anyway, since the venue for the baptism has been set, all that is left is to finalize the location for the celebration after the baptismal ceremony. We are still debating on how to proceed: whether we would book in a restaurant or rent a hall and engage a caterer. There are of course various factors to consider, like finances, manpower needed, suppliers for flowers and decorations, and time. Once the venue for the reception is finalized, I can start giving out invitations to our friends. For he guests, I already have a preliminary  list. Depending on the location, I can limit it to a specific number of people or add more guests to it. 

Well I do hope we will be able to finalized by next week so that we can finally send out invitations. Since the baptism will be in summer, we have to send them out early so that those who have vacation plans can also take the baptismal date into account. 

I plan to do DIYs as much as time allows me to: like the invitations, baptismal mass hymnal, table decor, baptismal favors, etc. And then delegate some tasks to the godparents. Hopefully, I will have the time to execute these ideas and plans. I am actually excited about it. I am happy to know that we can finally welcome our little princess into our big Catholic community and I will be at ease, knowing that she will soon receive God's blessing. 

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3 Gifts Every Grandparent Will Love

Sometimes it's hard to think of gifts for a grandparent. Many are set in their ways, so buying them the newest gadget isn't the best idea. It is important to remember that grandparents have seen it all. They are not going to be impressed with big fancy gifts. They value your time and your love more than anything.

Say It With a Picture

Grandparents still love pictures. An updated family portrait Pittsford NY, in a new frame is the perfect gift for most grandparents. If that sounds a little boring to you, then consider getting a picture printed on something else. Pictures can be printed on just about anything from pillows and blankets to phone cases. Think outside the box when it comes to poses. Instead of a formal pose, have a family portrait taken around your busy kitchen island, craziness and all. This way, your grandparent will remember all the times spent sitting around the kitchen.

Keep It Warm and Cozy

When you get older it's harder to keep warm. You can never have enough blankets and slippers. For a twist on this idea, look for a blanket with your grandparent's favorite sports team. If you want to personalize this idea even further, have a quilt made using baby blankets or t-shirts from your family. The blanket will smell like you and remind your grandparent of happy memories. Instead of plain slippers, get them funny monster slippers. They can have a laugh wearing them and think of you.

Give a Little Helper

Get your grandparents a robot vacuum. This may seem like a strange gift but think about it. Vacuuming the floor is a difficult task when you get older and have trouble moving around. This little helper will keep the floors clean, and your grandparent will get a kick out of watching it bump around the house. Robot vacuums are very durable and easy to operate. This is the type of gift that keeps giving.

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Lilly is Five Months Old

How time flies. Our Lilly is now five months old. Time does go by so fast especially in these unconventional times in the pandemic where our daily routine consists of nursing and waking up, changing diapers and playing games, singing lullabies and sharing cuddles, warm hugs and good night kisses. 

Lilly is doing good progress and despite being locked up most of the time at home, unable to visit friends and going on short excursions in zoos, I can say that she is developing well. She can now support her head and recognize our voices. When we lay her down on her stomach, she would make mini push-ups as she heaves her head up. She is also practicing to roll over, although she isn't able to do it alone yet. Slowly but surely, she will. Her favorite activity: munching on her fists and sticking toys to her mouth. She still hates pacifiers though but enjoys sucking her thumb. I remember her big sister is also the same. She can recognize faces now, and with only three faces to see, it is not very difficult to recognize who her favorite is. Me of course!

She is an adorable little darling who would scream out loud when she is hungry. But her giggles and coos are more than enough reward for those sometimes sleepless nights. She still wakes up once or twice into the night to nurse so this mommy is still not getting enough sleep but that is okay. Because I now know that they grow up so fast and so, I have to enjoy these moments as much as I can because it too shall soon pass.

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Hard Lockdown at Christmas in Germany

The year 2020 is about to come to an end. We were all looking forward to the Christmas season but due to an exponential rise in COVID-19 cases here in Germany, the federal states have decided to go on a hard lockdown beginning December 16. For some states, it started last Monday, December 14. What does the hard lockdown mean? For our state it means closing down of schools and kindergartens, and shops and retail businesses too. Beauty salons are also closed. Bars and clubs too. Restaurants are only allowed to sell food and beverage for takeout. There is a curfew from 8 o' clock in the evening until 7 o' clock in the morning. Shopping malls, garden centers and hardware stores are closed. Supermarkets, drug stores, pharmacies, gas stations, pet stores among others remain open. One can only go out when one goes to work, or to buy basic commodities and medicines for the family, walk the dog, or go to a doctor's appointment. Only two households are allowed to meet with a maximum total of 5 adults, children below 14 years old not counted. On Christmas days, the number allowed to meet is additional four adult persons but that's it. Fireworks sale and use are also not allowed on New Year's Eve.

It is going to be a very silent Christmas night for some but I think this is an opportunity to spend more quality time with the family, to sit down together and share Christmas dinner together, to reflect on what is really important in life, to pray together for healing and world peace and to be thankful for all the blessings received this year.

I wish you all a blessed 4th Advent Sunday and a beautiful and merry Christmas.

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Secure Yourself and Your Family with Insurances

Insurance - this is important to secure your and your family's future. There are a number of insurances out there that I find important, especially for those who have little children and those who own property. We never know what will happen in the future so securing the family financially with insurances is one of the smatest things one can do. Of course there are lots of insurances out there so informing yourself about them is key so that you don't give away your hard earned money for nothing.

Health insurance: this is also mandatory in most countries. And it is usually deducted already from your monthly salary so you need not worry about paying separately. This is important even if you are not sick because a visit to the doctor without a health insurance is very expensive. There are also supplementary health insurances that will cover for conditions not covered by the standard insurance like supplementary dental insurance but you can decide whether to get one or not.

Pension insurance: Like the health insurance, this one is also mandatory and automatically deducted from your salary. This is important so that you will get your pension payment when you retire. Those who are not working may also pay for a voluntary pension insurance so that they too will have a secure future when they get older.

Life insurance: I find this important because you never know when and how you will die. Getting this will ensure that your beneficiaries will be left with monetary support, and they can use the money to pay off, for example, bank loans or mortgage, if there are any.

Third party liability insurance: let's face it, accidents can happen and if you have little children, they might ruin the sofa or break an expensive item while playing at the neighbor's or friend's house. This is where third party liability insurance comes in. Instead of you shouldering the entire amount to replace these items, the insurance will pay it for you.

Fire / Building insurance: this is to protect your home should fire, natural disasters, water leaks, accidents happen. Your home is your safe haven so you might as well insure that which keeps your family warm and dry and comfortable.

Car insurance: while you do not want accidents to happen, getting a car insurance is mandatory these days. There are options for a partial or full coverage of auto parts so depending on your driving behavior, it would also be wise to get one so that you have coverage for automobile parts should there be a need replace them.

These are just some of the insurances that I find important and one should consider getting. Which insurance is important for you?

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How To Get More Organized at Home

Getting organized is a task that so many adults put on their to-do lists, but find themselves putting off. If you are consistently struggling to find the things you need or if you are just tired of living amongst clutter, here are a few tips to help you live a more organized life.

Get a System for Smaller Items

You may have noticed that small items have a way of getting lost forever in the mounds of disorganization. You don’t have to spend countless hours searching for earrings or trying to untangle necklaces anymore if you use jewelry drawer organizers. Think about how much time and energy you could save by using organizational tools for smaller items.

Contain Your Urge to Buy More Containers

While containers for items can be useful, not everything needs to be contained. Select your organizational systems carefully and don’t go overboard with it so that you can avoid being overcome with containers.

Rid Yourself of Duplicates

Many adults have the difficulty of having duplicates of items. Most commonly, this occurs in the kitchen with multiple of the same kitchen utensil. If you get rid of unnecessary duplicates, you may be surprised at how much space you clear up.

Sort Your Mail

If you struggle more with papers and mail, consider setting up a mail system for yourself. Having a filing system for incoming, outgoing, bills, important, etc. mail and papers can help you stay organized and ensure that you never miss a bill.

Get Creative With Your Organization

While there are plenty of tips and tricks out there to help you get organized, you can also get creative in your effort to stay tidy. Don’t let yourself be restricted to the tips out there, and find the system that works for you.

Getting organized can be easier said than done; however, with a few quick steps and comprehensive systems, you can rethink your whole life. Let yourself live a life that is free of clutter and you’ll be grateful you did.

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Two Months Into Breastfeeding

My breastfeeding journey wasn't easy at first. But I am determined to breastfeed my baby however it takes... And just like that, my baby is already two months old. And I am happy to say that she is exclusively breastfeeding. Yay!!! The days seem to fly by in a flash. The sleepless nights I can still count, and they are worth it... every second, every minute of it. Thanks to the encouragement and advice of friends, I was able to pull it through. So what did I learn in those two months of breastfeeding?

That your breastmilk does not come automatically at first. So you will have to nurse your baby as often as you can to stimulate your breasts to produce more milk. Never skip a meal. It is important to eat properly so you will have your strength and eating a well-balanced food ensures that you get the nutrients your body needs to remain healthy. Drinking plenty of water and nursing tea keeps you hydrated and ensures that you don't dry out. It is also important to get enough rest. There is always the temptation of doing house chores or other things when your baby is asleep, but trust me, you need as much sleep so you have the strength to feed especially in the wee hours of the morning. For newborns, they feed like every two hours so you need to be awake too when you baby needs to nurse. Support of your family is also very important. When they can look after your baby for a couple of hours so you can have some time for yourself  or you can get some restful sleep, that is really great. I am luck and grateful to have such a good team behind my back: a husband and a daughter who have been very understading of me and all my craziness.

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An Angel Is Born

My dearest Lilly,

You came earlier than expected. And nothing could have prepared us of your coming although we have been excitedly waiting for you since you were  conceived. It took years, you see, before I got pregnant with you. We have prayed for you and He has answered our prayers at a time when we least expected it.

I had my worries during the course of my pregnancy with you, because I was turning forty and there are lots of risks that go with a late pregnancy. But our Lord is gracious and faithful and gave us a healthy baby girl. There were complications during childbirth, but it was all perhaps for a reason. You are now 19 days old and growing bigger and filling our days with surprises and our sleepless nights with wonder. Looking back at what we have been through the past couple of weeks, I could say that you have been through a lot, that I still cry remembering your pain each time they wanted to get your blood samples for tests. The Corona pandemic didn't make it any easier for us, as it did not allow for hospital visits from other family members and friends but the positive thing is, we were able to bond better and have the time just for ourselves. 

There are lots of challenges, surprises that will come our way, in this journey together with you but I am positive and happy because everyone in the family is here to support you and me: your daddy, your big sister and even our dog Suki. For that I am grateful. We are all happy that you, our little angel, is born. And we have lots of plans with you, going on family trips and family adventures, or just spending lazy days at home.

We welcome you into our life, our little angel, our Lilly Anne. We thank God for you. Thank you for being born.

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Tips To Finish Your Moving-In Process

After moving into a new house or apartment, it's natural to want to relax as your own reward for a job well done. Maybe you'll want to go out in the town and get a cup of coffee. However, before you can do any of that, there are a few actions you should take to finish up the moving-in process so you can feel more at home.

Find a Storage Unit

If, after unpacking and settling in, you realize you have more stuff than you originally thought, don't fret. You won't have to give things up or send them to your parents; just rent a local storage unit to keep them in. Finding affordable storage Orlando FL or wherever you just moved to is a breeze, especially in a big city. Ask around and look on the internet for recommendations.

Learn Your Neighborhood

This doesn't have to involve interacting with your neighbors right away. However, take some time to go around learning about the neighborhood you'll be living in. Afterward, you'll be better informed on what goes on and who to contact when you're in a sticky situation. Also, depending on your interests and lifestyle, you can narrow your search down for your new favorite spots to go shopping, grab a bite, and take a walk.

Update Your Information

This should be one of the first things completed after you move. Car registration and voter registration are two of the most important things to update, along with your driver's license if you're in a different state. The process to change your address is very simple and just requires a trip to your local post office, or it can be completed online.

Establishing yourself in a new place of residence can be difficult and time-consuming. Take these steps as soon as possible to make things easier and really settle into your new home.

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What You Need To Know About Moving To Miami, FL

If you love sun-soaked days, beach weather year-round and a relaxed atmosphere with international flair, a move to Miami, Florida could be right for you. With its subtropical climate and an average of 248 sunny days a year, Miami offers the opportunity to live in paradise full-time. Take a look at what you should know if you’re thinking about moving to Miami.

The Famous Beaches Are Open Year-Round
If you love the beach, you’ll be thrilled to know that unlike many beaches in other parts of the country, the beaches in Miami, Florida are open year-round! That means you and your family can enjoy a day at the beach in December or a picnic by the water in March. Popular beaches in the area include Sunny Isles Beach and the Oleta River State Park, but no matter where you are in Miami, you’re never far from a great piece of shoreline.

It's a Great Place To Raise a Family
Miami may be famous for its downtown party scene, but what you might not know is it’s also a wonderful place to raise a family. The diverse population and numerous parks and museums, like the well-known Miami Children’s Museum, make this a great spot to settle down. If you’re looking for custom homes Miami FL, luxury builders can help you bring your tropical dream home to life.

It's Got World-Class Cuban Cuisine
For foodies and fans of international style, Miami’s Cuban cuisine scene is a must-try. Located only 330 miles from Cuba and home to one of the highest concentrations of Cuban Americans in the country, the city can proudly boast Cuban food that’s second to none. The neighborhood of Little Havana is the center of Miami Hispanic culture and offers restaurants, cafés and clubs. For the ultimate gastronomic experience, try a frita, or Cuban hamburger.

For fans of beach weather, top-notch food and family fun, Miami, Florida stands out. If you like the sound of this world-class city, it may just be the right home for you!

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A Name for Baby No. 2

Naming a child is one of the most important decisions any parent is faced with. Because once a name is decided, the child will bear it all though his/her lifetime. It may seem like a Herculian task, and it can at times be so, but thanks for modern technology, there is now a vast database of boy or girl names, along with their meanings, origins or roots, and even name or Saint's days.

But how do you select the name for your baby? Parents may choose popular names, or names which have a relevant meaning for the parents, or they name their child after a person who has a great influence on them. What is important I think is that the child will be identify with the name, and not get bullied for it once he / she grows up.

Since we are having a girl, (yes! it is a GIRL!), it should of course be a girl's name. Our first daughter has two names and I want the second baby to have two names too. So we are thinking of the following names:

Lilly - it is both the name of the flower Lily in english and comes in 150 varieties. A beautiful flower, it is a symbol of purity. It is also the short form for the Hebrew name Elizabeth, which means "my God is abundance" or "pledged to God". My daughter loves this name and wants to name her baby sister so.

Emilia - the Italian name has Latin origins ("aemulus") and is the female form for Emilio. When translated, it means the zealous, the hardworking, the imitator. I love the ring of the "-iya" at the end and I think that when combined with softer names, it gives the person more character and personality.  

Grace - the name is derived from the Latin word Gratia, which means grace, beauty, mercy. In Roman mythology, the three Gratia are the three daughters of Zeus. In Christendom, the name has come to mean "the mercy of God."

Hannah - the name comes from the Hebrew word "channah" and has biblical origins. It means gracious, graceful and lovely. In the bible, the name comes from the mother of the Prophet Samuel and the prophet Hannah. 

Marie - the name means "the stubborn" and "the one loved by God". Marie is considered a variant of the name Maria, the mother of Jesus, which goes back to Mirjam, and therefore has a Hebrew origin. 

Claire - the name has Latin origins and is derived from "clarus", with the feminine form "clara" being used only after the time of the Romans. It means the bright, the clear, the radiant, the shining. The name is known for St. Clare of Asissi, the founder of the Order of Claris. This is also a good name to someone who stands out and inspires. 

So these are our choices. Which name combination can you suggest? I would really love to hear from you. I will reveal in another post what Baby No. 2's name will be once we have decided on one so look out for it!     

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3 Tips For Planning the Perfect Baby Shower

Planning a baby shower can feel as monumental as planning a wedding. After all, you are responsible for the last soiree before the mom-to-be brings new life into the world. Tackle this exciting responsibility by following these few keys steps to create a memorable event.

1. Know the Basics

Start your planning process by determine a few key factors: who, what, when, where and how. Anyone close to the expectant mother can host a baby shower, and it doesn’t need to be a one-person job. Team up with some friends to throw your BFF the shower of her dreams. The shower should be held when the mom-to-be is between 28 and 35 weeks pregnant. You want her energetic and excited for the big event! Finally, determine a locale for the party. There are countless options from churches, restaurants, private home or event spaces.

2. Choose a Theme

Forgo the frilly pink lace or blue elephants for a theme that is really personalized towards the expectant mother. If she loves to read, curate a theme based on her favorite children’s stories and have guests bring literary-themed gifts such as a rocking chair for story time or a personalized ABC book. If your friend is welcoming her second baby and has all the essentials, throw a diaper-themed party to ensure she is well stocked for at least the first few weeks.

3. Have Some Fun

aWhile opening presents, eating and socialization may fill the majority of the baby shower; planning some fun games and activities can make the party more memorable. Tailor these activities to your BFF’s interests. Does she enjoy movement-based games? Or would she rather listen to the quirky advice of experienced mothers? If the party is not a surprise, see if your friend would like to follow the current trend of a gender reveal.

Throwing your BFF a baby shower is the perfect way to celebrate the mom-to-be in your life. Following these few steps will ensure that this day will be a shining highlight in her new family’s journey.

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Three Surprising Questions to Ask When Choosing a Daycare Center

Finding the right childcare options for your family may seem like a daunting task. While location, budget and atmosphere play a significant role in choosing the right daycare tampa fl for your child, there are some other questions you might not have thought to ask. Here are three things to address when weighing your options for childcare.

Find Out if Snacks and Meals are Provided

It may seem like a minor thing, but providing food for your kids can be a huge help to parents. Many facilities offer snack and lunch options for children enrolled in their program. Be sure to ask about what's included and what costs extra. It may be an important part of your budget and can also help save precious time in the mornings.

Inquire About Educational or Enrichment Programming

Even at a very young age, children are eager and ready to learn. Find out what types of programs your top choices offer to help you make a more informed decision. Ask if they plan any lessons or activities around math, science or reading, even if they are play-centered. Don't just ask about academics; inquire about enrichment activities as well. Music, art and even foreign language are some of the most common special activities that you could expect to see at some daycare centers.

Ask to See an Example of a Daily Schedule for Each Age Level

What matters most is that your child is in a safe place and well cared for. But you should be wary of a facility that does not have a set structure to their day. Children thrive best in a routine setting, so ask to see what the daily schedule looks like for each age level at the center. Not only will it help you know what to expect for this year, but you can also see what the future would hold if you stay long-term.

Don't skip the details when choosing a daycare center for your child. Asking the right questions can help you make the best choice for your family.

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4 Tips to Impove Your Home Security

Creating a sense of security in your living space is an important part of transforming your house into a home. To ensure you and your family feel safe all year long, consider some of these tips.

Secure Outdoor Areas

If you have a storage shed on your property or another building that is separate from the main body of your home, you may want to invest in commercial security door lock systems to ensure that building remains secure at all times. It can be easy to be unaware of potential security issues if you are not accessing your storage shed on a regular basis. By investing in a heavy duty lock, you will help keep yourself safe.

Lock Down Your Garage

Go out of your way to ensure your garage is completely locked at the end of the day to help prevent unauthorized entry. In addition to securing your garage door via slide lock, make sure you lock the door that leads from your garage into your home.

Check Doors and Windows

Do a quick check of all of your doors and windows to determine if someone could easily break past your home's defenses. Consider upgrading your doors if they don't appear to have strong door frames. You may also want to upgrade your windows with security bars or protective films that help prevent an intruder from shattering the glass. Make it a habit to lock all of your doors and windows before going to sleep each night or when you go to leave your home.

Use Landscaping to Your Advantage

You can use strategic landscaping to help keep your home more secure. Use prickly plants underneath windows. Place lighting that will give your yard's aesthetic a boost while also illuminating the area to discourage intruders at night.

Through mindfulness and home upgrades, you can help keep your family safe.

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Soon To Be Ludwigsburger

It has been almost two years since we started on our house-hunting journey. It was not easy, especially that the housing market is very competitive lately. We have been through a lot of home visits, visited a number of prefab house developers, even went to the open house of one of the developers factories, visitied house construction sites. Almost all of our weekends were spent going on these.

Thankfully, the search is over. But once it was decided that the house we chose will be sold to us, which is by the way not a newly built one, everything was like a whirlwind. With the decision came more appointments and visits, this time to the bank for the financing, to the attorney's office for the notary and signing of the contract to sell, and a whole lot more. Suddenly, everything became official. 

And we still a lot to do before moving day... but at least we still have the time to prepare: about 8 months at least to pack, re-register, notify the immigration office of our pending move, notify the electric, water, telephone companies that we are moving soon and to schedule when the lines should be transfered, and all the other formalities that need to be done when one moves from Place A to Place B.

We are excited and at the time overwhelmed with this new milestone in our life as a family. But I know that with God's guidance and help and advice from good friends, everything shall go well. And yes, from Stuttgart we will be moving to Ludwigsburg. We will soon no longer be Stuttgarters but Ludwigsburgers.

So help us God!

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What's Happening in October in Stuttgart?

We are already halfway through the month of October, but it still has lots to offer for both young and old. Here are some events and activities that the City of Stuttgart and its neighboring cities has to offer this fall season:

1. Kürbisaustellung (Pumpkin Festival) at Blühendes Barock in Ludwigsburg: 

The annual pumpking festival runs until November 03, 2019. This year's theme: The Fantastic World of Fairytales. If you grew up enjoying the tales of the Grimm Brothers for example, then the giant pumpkin exhibit is a must! Lots of activities are in store for visitors: halloween pumpkin carving, music, story telling, pumpkin gourmet creations, and lots more. Entrance fees: 9,00€ for adults, and 4,50€ for children from 4-15 years old.

Giant pumpkin sculture of Peter Pan and Tinkerbelle. Sculpture by Pit Ruge.
Photo taken from Blühendes Barock website.

2. Culmination of the Remstal Garden Show:

For 164 days the Remstal became a unique experience, opening up new paths, testing new formats and making new encounters possible. With it, the communities and cities around the Remstal became closer more than ever. To culminate, an inter-community closing ceremony will take place in Waiblingen on 20.10.2019. In the evening, Waiblingen lights up, with the city center bathed in a colorful sea of lights. A fireworks display forms the brilliant finale of the event and the Remstal Garden Show 2019.

3. Halloween at the Wilhelma: 

It is Halloween at the Zoo on 31.10.2019! Children and teenagers until 18 years old in costumes have free entrance to the park. Wilhelma transforms into a Halloween town with spooky lights, a dim atmosphere, scary silhouettes and creepy decorations. Special Halloween program from 11:00 - 20:00. 

These are just some of the things that you can do with your family this month of October in Stuttgart. I wish you lots of fun and enjoyment with the whole family! 

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Suki Is Two!

It's already fall... The leaves are beginning to fall and she loves the fragrance of the autumn air.

Our little Suki just turned two last Sunday, and oh my, aren't we sooo glad that she came into our lives! Who would have thought that this wild ball of fur would turn our lives update down. We couldn't even imagine our life without her now...

Just cuddling and hanging out with family.

She is one ball of happy, wild, slimy, sweet, needy, cuddly, adorable FUR! She drools when she wants a piece of what you are eating and gives you her look that you can't resist. She loves to fart especially when you are beside her and it just STINKS A LOT! She is a springer - she would jump at you just because. She hates it when it rains and doesn't want her paws to get wet, so she could be stubborn if you force to go out for a walk on a cold rainy day. She sheds a lot, it doesn't matter what season. She snores very loud, louder even than the husband, that he can't sleep too when Suki sleeps with us. Hihi! But despite all these, we are not complaining. 

Getting a bite of her favorite snack: carrots, anyone?

She is one sweet dog - she is content to just sleep beside us whenever we hang out in the living room. She is family to us, and I am her Mama. Imagine having little kids at home who would follow you around, even to the bathroom? Suki does that too! Suki is our french bulldog. She is our family pet, but she is more than that. I guess you can say that she is our 2nd baby. And we thank God she is in our lives. May we get to spend more years with her.

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What to Do If Your Loved One Can No Longer Live Independently

As your parents get older, it can be difficult for them to accomplish tasks that once came easily. If you think that your parent or loved one needs a bit of help living on their own, here are some strategies to try.

Consider Moving Back Home

Sometimes it is best for your parent to have a child living with them to assist with day-to-day chores and errands. This way, your parent can still maintain his or her freedom while having some help from a family member, and you are also less likely to disrupt their schedule or lifestyle. Moving home might seem like a drastic step, but it can be hugely beneficial for your parent and your relationship.

Look Into Home Care

Older folks with more persistent or complex health problems might require a level of care that you are unable to provide. If this is the case, hiring a home care worker might be a better option. To find home care workers in your area, simply do an internet search to see reviews and cost breakdowns. For example, if you reside in Washington, D.C., search for "home care washington dc" to find agencies near you.

Research Retirement Communities

A retirement community can be a wonderful choice for seniors who need some help or companionship, but also want to maintain a relatively independent lifestyle. As people age, they still need to surround themselves with a community of friends and family. Finding a retirement community where your loved one can engage in group activities and have on-hand assistance may be a perfect middle ground between living on their own and types of full-time care that is more hands-on.

Depending on the amount of assistance they require, it may be frustrating to think about living accommodations for your parent or loved one. However, with these tips, you are sure to find the situation that works best for everyone involved.

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Why June Weddings Are So Popular

To be a June bride is something that a woman may have dreamed of becoming. There must be something in the month of June that makes many couples want to marry in this month. But did you know that marrying in June traditionally goes way back into the Roman times?

Juno, The Goddess of Marriage
Yes, you read it right: the Roman era. It is believed that the goddess Juno, for which the month name June is derived from, protects women throughout their lives, that includes of course (!) marriage and childbirth, two important milestones in a woman's life.

Floral Scents Cover the Stench
Ever wonder what the bouquet of flowers is for? In the Medieval times, hygiene is not practiced in the way we know it now and bath soaps are a luxury that is difficult to have. There were only annual baths where one gets to thoroughly bathe. This is usually done in May or June, which means brides are still relatively fresh in the month of June. They carry along with them a bouquet of flowers, which are thankfully abundant in the month of June, to mask their body odor just in case.

Beautiful Weather
Practically speaking, for those of us living in the northern hemisphere, June is a perfect time to get married because it is the time when summertime kicks in. You have a higher chance of getting a beautiful weather. Add to that the longer days in June, which means you can also utilize outdoor space to the fullest.

So these are some reasons why many tend to marry in June. Do you know any other reasons? Be sure to add them in the comment section!

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A Place to Call Our Own

It is every family's dream to have their own home one day. Many of us wish for a dream home with a backyard garden, or a house with a large kitchen and lots of extra room to accommodate additional family members and visiting relatives and friends. Others wish for a house with a garage, where they can work on or tinker on their cars at the comfort of home. 

Others take into consideration the location of the property - is it conveniently located near schools, or shopping markets, or maybe near a bus or tram stop? Is it in the suburbs, on the border of the city, in the city center, near parks? Is the house or property in an exclusive subdivision or located in an urban development area?

Whatever kind of a home it is, an important aspect to consider is your finances. Can you finance the house? What are your financial resources and options for financial support? How long will you have to pay the mortgage? It is important to plan with a foresight so that things will work out. 

Indeed there are lots of things to consider when looking for or building your dream home. It takes a lot of effort, planning and sound decision making. But once it is built or finished, you are able to breath a sigh of relief and find comfort in the thought that your family now has its own roof on their heads. There is, after all, no place like home.

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