By Lincoln McElwee

No matter how hard you might try to deny it, the fact is that fall is creeping around the corner, little by little! So if you’ve caught yourself silently counting down the days or even dreading summer’s ending in a big way—maybe back-to-school shopping has your blood pressure already boiling—take heart! There is a solution to your post-Labor Day worries.

The solution is known as relaxation, and so to help you out with taking things slowly, Omni Hotels has announced a few exciting deals for travelers across the country.

With its ‘Linger Longer’ package, guests can kick back, relax and enjoy the serenity of summer as it’s meant to be enjoyed. It’s a deal really too great to pass up, and is available now through Labor Day. Guests who book the ‘Linger Longer’ package at a participating property will receive 10% off a one-night stay. But the savings don’t end there! Booking the ‘Live Longer’ package will also save you 15% off a two-night stay, and 20% off a stay of three nights or more. http://www.omnihotels.com/specials/linger-longer

In addition to lingering longer while on vacation, Omni offers vacationers other reasons to get away this summer. Guests who choose to book the ‘A Reason to Resort’ package at a signature property within brand’s Resort Collection will also be entitled to 10% off a one-night stay; 15% off a two-night stay; and 20% off a stay of three nights or more. Travelers who book the package will also receive daily breakfast for each registered guest. http://www.omnihotels.com/specials/reason-to-resort

With memorable family excursions, activities such as falconry, Segway tours and zip lining, plus kid-centric adventures and camps that will have your kids smiling from ear to ear, Omni Hotels & Resorts can help you and your family find countless Reasons to Resort and Linger Longer—and all in top-notch accommodations!

The following list offers just a taste of the festivities that await at Omni properties across the nation. So dig in—and chill out!

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa – Carlsbad, CA

http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego-la-costa

This Spanish Colonial-style getaway with manicured gardens and Southern California charm is 4 miles from LEGOLAND, and 29 miles from both the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. The luxurious rooms, suites and villa suites are decorated in warm tones, providing modern amenities and timeless elegance. The resort offers four dining options, eight swimming pools, waterslides, two championship golf courses, and countless other ways to relax, including the #1 wellness spa in the country.

The resort also offers Kidtopia Kids’ Club, which includes a journey that takes children through a magical forest where they get to see sea creatures in a wonderland all “underwater.” Craft-making, as well as the land and sea elements of the journey, will stimulate imaginations and keep children engaged in the kid-tastic fun!

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa – Rancho Mirage, CA

http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/palm-springs-rancho-las-palmas

Set against a backdrop of mountains and palm trees in the world-famous heart of Palm Springs, this sun-drenched resort set on 240 acres of land is 3 miles from upscale shopping at The Shops on El Paseo and 12 miles from downtown Palm Springs. The spacious rooms and suites provide respite from the sun with plush bedding and modern amenities. The resort has five restaurants, as well as pools, a golf course, and tennis courts.

Splashtopia, the resort’s on-site waterpark for the young and young at heart, includes a 425-foot lazy river, a cliff-side hot tub, two 100-foot waterslides, a sandy beach and water-play zones with fountains and sprinklers.

Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort – Hilton Head, S.C.

http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/hilton-head

This luxurious beachfront resort is set in South Carolina’s breathtaking low country. The all-suite property offers matchless modern amenities and accommodations with mini kitchens and balconies, as well as ocean and resort views. The resort features two pools, as well as two beachside hot tubs. There’s also an 11-mile on-site lagoon system for canoeing and kayaking, as well as pristine sandy beaches and beachside cabanas.

As a special treat for kids, the Seaside Kid’s Club will keep them entertained with hours of activities! With daily themes to and countless resort activities, including Talk Like a Pirate Tuesday, Wildlife Wednesday and Super Soaked Saturday, kids will definitely want to linger a bit longer at the Seaside Kid’s Club.

Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort – Amelia Island, FL

http://www.villasofameliaisland.com/

Set on 1,350 acres of a barrier island off the Northeast Florida coast, this oceanfront getaway boasts stunning views and endless reasons to relax! The resort offers guests spacious rooms and suites with balconies and patios, along with modern amenities and top-notch service. There are nine restaurants, and the largest poolscape in northern Florida with a children’s splash park, several pools and two hot tubs. There’s also a 3.5 mile-long private beach, championship golf, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding.

For kids, there’s the Gamers teen lounge, Heron Cove’s Adventure Golf and the award-winning Camp Amelia. Camp Amelia provides youth and family activities, allowing kids to explore the resort and discover the nature, science and salt life of the surrounding environ through its Nature Center. The interactive learning is offered through themed sessions. With Camp@Night, for instance, kids can create keepsakes and engage in fame time with other kids.

Omni Mount Washington Resort – Bretton Woods, N.H.

http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/bretton-woods-mount-washington

The famed retreat of presidents, poets and celebrities, this New England resort with Spanish Renaissance architecture is set in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and is a National Historic Landmark. The richly appointed rooms and suites feature modern amenities and upscale décor. There are five dining venues, indoor and outdoor pool, cabanas and hot tubs, as well as award-winning alpine and Nordic ski centers, horseback riding and sleigh rides.

The resort also features the Kinderwoods Adventure Playground, which is located at the bottom of the Bretton Woods ski area. The Adventure Playground offers plenty of outdoor activities for smaller guests, such as mini-zip lines, rope bridges, Tarzan swings, tunnels, and other adventurous, heart-pounding activities for kids. Children can also enjoy the resort’s Go Kart Park, a perfect place to experience off-roading while in New England.

Omni Bedford Springs Resort – Bedford, PA

http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/bedford-springs

Set in the breathtaking Cumberland Valley, this historic golf and spa resort is known for its world-class spa, and is 90 minutes from Pittsburgh, as well as 2 hours from Washington, D.C. This luxury property is also a National Historic Landmark, and its legacy dates back over 200 years ago at Bedford Springs when eight mineral springs gained fame for the site as a place for healing and relaxation. The resort features sophisticated rooms and suites with balconies. There are five restaurants, a golf course, an aquatic center with an outdoor pool and a heated mineral springs-fed indoor pool, and 25 miles of hiking trails.

As a delight for children, the resort also offers The Anderson’s Explorers Activity Center, which allows kids to learn all about Dr. Anderson, the first person to actually discover the healing properties of the resort’s famed spring water. Kids can also seek out an adrenaline rush by playing indoor and outdoor laser tag. A fun, no-to-be-missed excursion is the Hook ‘Em and Cook ‘Em package. The package teaches children the basics of fishing during hands-on fishing sessions.

Both packages are available for booking now through September 7, 2015. For additional information, please visit omnihotels.com or call 1-800-The-Omni. Travelers or media can also follow Omni Hotels & Resorts at www.Facebook.com/OmniHotels and Twitter.com/OmniHotels.

The post Linger Longer with Relaxing Deals from Omni Hotels & Resorts appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

The waffle iron and panini press have a lot in common. They both produce delightful results, but are often limited to a single purpose. Is it worth cluttering up your kitchen with single-purpose appliances? The answer is yes! By diversifying the types of foods you can make, you’ll ensure that these appliances earn their keep on your countertop!

Once you stop viewing your panini press as a one-trick pony, you’ll realize its full potential as a mini-grilling machine. Want crispy bacon or quickly grilled chicken? Put them on the panini press! The double-sided grilling feature lowers cooking times without compromising taste or quality. The panini press also provides a solution to the age-old problem of reheating cold pizza. The oven takes too long, but the microwave saps quality. Try the panini press for a quick reheat that delivers crispy pizza!

The waffle iron is enjoying a similar revolution as home chefs are discovering its many uses. If you feel like getting creative with your baking, consider using the waffle iron. The result of baking on the waffle iron is a gooey and warm baked good, like cookies or cinnamon rolls. It also comes in handy if you need to crisp up some bite-sized appetizers like mac and cheese balls or falafel. For more ingenious ideas as well as cleaning instructions, check out our infographic below!

The post 10 Surprising Things You Can Make with Your Panini Press and Waffle Iron appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Darla Scheidt

Cavities are the most common chronic childhood illness in the U.S., according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While tooth decay is largely preventable, many parents agree that getting a young child to practice good oral hygiene can be a big chore. The good news is that establishing healthy dental habits early is possible — and even fun — with a little extra time and effort.

Here are five easy ways parents can prevent childhood tooth decay and encourage good oral hygiene for their children.

1. Set a good example.

If mom and dad make it a priority to take care of their teeth every day, then so will their kids. Children love to imitate their parents, and when your kids see how consistent and thorough you are in your daily oral care, they too will be more motivated to clean their teeth and gums.

Brush and floss together in the morning and before bed to model proper oral hygiene. This will also alert you to any issues your child has with his/her brushing techniques. While small children can take a turn at brushing, dentists often recommend assisting your child until he/she is capable of brushing correctly on his/her own.

Parents should also talk to children about the importance of maintaining good oral health and preventing harmful cavities. This may include explaining best practices for cleaning teeth, as well as how eating a well-balanced diet can promote good dental and overall health. Talking about trips to the dentist positively will also help prevent any fears about future visits.

2. Let kids select their toothbrush.

Today you can find a variety of toothbrushes and toothpastes made specifically for kids. Let your child choose a soft, child-sized brush in his/her favorite color or character as an effective way to motivate brushing at home. Similarly, there are many kid-friendly types of toothpaste that come in fun colors and flavors to make brushing teeth more appealing.

3. Sing a song.

Effective tooth brushing requires a full two minutes, twice a day, says The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). That may seem like a long time for a small child, so to help pass the time, sing a song. The ABC’s is just one of many great tunes you can sing to help children brush for the required amount of time — not to mention it’s educational. You can also play your child’s favorite song or television show on the computer or smartphone as a fun way to ensure his/her teeth are cleaned for the full two minutes.

4. Play a game.

Sometimes incorporating a little fun into your daily routine is the best way to promote proper oral hygiene habits for your little one, especially if he/she is showing resistance. Play a game while he/she brushes, such as bubble making with your toothpaste, as an easy way to make brushing fun. Give your child a turn at brushing your teeth, or role-play tooth brushing with dolls and teddy bears for extra practice.

5. Reward good dental habits.

Some kids respond well to a reward chart as a good motivator for building healthy oral hygiene habits. Make a dental chart for the bathroom, and reward your child with stickers for good brushing and flossing. Once your child has reached his/her sticker goal, celebrate his/her good habits with a special treat, such as watching a movie or a trip to the zoo.

Like adults, children should visit the dentist every six months for routine cleanings and checkups. Not only will your child’s teeth and gums stay healthy, but he/she will also be less likely to develop more serious dental issues later in life. It is important to remember that a trip to the dentist can be scary. If your child has any fears, let the dental staff know so that they can take extra care to ensure your child feels comfortable and safe.

Ultimately, a parent’s goal should be to make oral care fun. Educating your child about good oral hygiene at a young age can help encourage healthy dental habits throughout your child’s lifetime. Even the most resistant kids will eventually understand that brushing teeth is a regular and necessary part of taking care of their whole body.

Author Bio:

Darla Scheidt works at Grove Dental Associates as the Marketing Director. The dentists at Grove Dental have over 40 years of combined experience in the dental field and are focused on staying on the cutting edge of dentistry to better serve their patients.

The post Helpful Tips To Get Your Kids To Brush Their Teeth appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Greer Barnes

You’re at your local mall searching for the perfect dress to wear for an impromptu date night with your husband. You think you’ve found the right one: a little black number hanging beautifully on the tall mannequin near the front of the store. After finding your size, you try on the dress and look in the dressing room mirror. The perfect LBD that looked so great on the mannequin isn’t the perfect dress for you. You thought black would be slimming, but the dress completely swallows up your small frame instead. Breathing a sigh of frustration, you leave the dressing room to find other options and think to yourself, I don’t even know where to begin.

Finding a dress that fits your body perfectly can be difficult. We all have areas of our bodies that we want to highlight and others we’d rather hide. Thankfully, thanks to the large number of online r there are plenty of options when it comes to finding a dress style to fit your unique body type. Here are a few tried and true styles to inspire you the next time you’re on the hunt for the perfect dress.

If your body is long and straight try…

A dress that will create the illusion of curves. Your tall and thin frame creates envy among women wherever you go because you pull off practically anything. The fit and flare style of the London Style Collection Sleeveless Dress from JCPenney will define your waist and the curved white lines will create the illusion of an hourglass shape. Don’t think you can wear horizontal stripes? Think again. The striped print on the Prepare and Contrast Dress from Modcloth will draw attention to all of the right places.

If your body is smaller on top and larger on the bottom try…

A dress with a flowy skirt and a fitted top. Lucky girl. You can wear daring tops that women with big busts only dream about. Draw attention to your upper body with a pretty design like the lace pattern in this Eliza J Lace & Faille Dress from Nordstrom. The high waist and light and airy skirt will create balance between your top and body halves. The Perceptions Short-Sleeve Knit Dress from JCPenney is another great option. This belted polka dot dress fits snugly on top but allows plenty of room for movement on the bottom. The best part: it’s machine washable. Say hello to your new favorite daytime dress!

If your body is larger on top and smaller on the bottom try… 

A dress with a V-neck top and fitted waist. If you want to create an hourglass shape, while it may seem a little odd, wear a top that shows a little skin so you draw attention away from your chest. A V-neck top is like an arrow: it points down so you can showcase your smaller features like a little waist and great legs. This Pretty Perusing Dress from Modcloth is perfect if you want to wear something more conservative for day while the Peace and Client Dress in Chevron (from Modcloth), with its black top, printed bottom, and bright red belt, is a great choice for dinner or drinks.

If your body is curvy all over try…

A dress with a fitted waist, caplet sleeves, and an A-line skirt for a more conservative feel or a form-fitting dress for a look that highlights your curves. You’ve got the curves. All you have to do is decide how you’re going to show ‘em off. With its caplet sleeves and pretty lace details, the Ruffle Chiffon Dress from Torrid is the perfect mix of sweet and sexy. Pair it with a blazer for work or add a pair of sandals for a pretty brunch look. Want to really show off your body for a night on the town? This Maggy London Tie Dye Print Crepe Midi Sheath Dress from Nordstrom will do the trick. The panels on the front draw the eye in and down, making you look longer and leaner. The midi length keeps this body-con dress still mom-appropriate.

The post Finally Find the Right Dress for Your Body appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Dana DeMercurio

There’s nothing quite like a leisurely trip to the salon for a new ‘do, am I right ladies? The shine, the bounce – it’s a glorious thing to behold! But as much as we all love that straight-from-the-chair look, it’s not always feasible for busy moms (not to mention the often hefty price tag). Think you can’t mimic that same professional styling from the comfort of your own home? Think again.

Becoming your own personal hair stylist is easier than you think – especially when equipped with the right tools and tricks of the trade. Browse our list of must-have styling products to perfect your ‘do without spending all your dough.

Click n Curl ($30-$70)

Looking for a blow-out tool that yields voluminous locks and loose flowing curls? Look no further than the Click n Curl. Created by entrepreneur, hairstyling enthusiast and busy mom Kim Nimsgern, the Click n Curl was designed with you in mind. “I came up with this idea of Click n Curl after fussing with a round brush and rollers, all while trying to get my kids ready for school in the morning,” says Nimsgern. “I realized there had to be a better way, so I worked on combining the two tools and realized it produced great body and volume.” Kudos, Kim – you nailed it! This uber-easy styling tool allows you to dry, curl and set all in one stress-free step. The secret: detachable round brush rollers. Simply divide hair, blow-dry using the Click n Curl brush, then detach the barrel roller and leave in for desired amount of time to achieve luscious locks in a flash. Whether your hair is seven inches long or 17 inches long, Click n Curl has a size that’s designed for you. Models, TV hosts and salon stylists alike praise this product, and you will too. Check out reviews, product selection and more at Click-n-Curl.com.

Mastey ($22)

Meet the masters of organic haircare products: Mastey offers an array of environment-friendly styling systems that will cleanse, condition and protect your hair from coloring, heat and other harsh daily damages. With a 100% vegan product line that’s free of synthetic dyes and parabens, Mastey is perfect for health-conscious stylists and salons around the world. Argan oil, olive oil, rice amino acids, anti-oxidants and nourishing vitamins make Mastey an easy choice for at-home haircare. Our favorite product: Mastey Color Protecting Restorative Mask. This deep-conditioning treatment repairs damaged locks thanks to the plethora of pure ingredients. Making your hair manageable again without the help of a stylist just got a whole lot easier. Check out Mastey’s full line of products here: Mastey.com.

Mixed Chicks No Frizz Trio ($40)

One of the many perks of salon visits for curly hair customers are frizz-free results. But correct us if we’re wrong – it seems that it never lasts past the first at-home washing, especially in particularly humid climates. Ultimately frizz returns for an encore performance, and it’s pretty much the worst. Tame your tangles and define your curls with Mixed Chicks game-changing No Frizz Trio. This trio of shampoo, deep conditioner and leave-in conditioner is all you need to clarify, define and detangle your hair, no matter how curly it is! And did we forget to mention that blow-drying is not required? Think about all things you can do (or not do) with the time saved by switching to this trifecta of haircare therapy. You’re welcome.

Cibu Sticky Rice Pomade ($18)

Managing and styling short, textured hair at home can be just as demanding (and exhausting) as long hair. Fret not, salon-skipping friends. Cibu’s best-selling pomade, Sticky Rice, is the only product you need to style your pixie or spikey cut. Adding shine, texture, durability and a whole lotta edge, Cibu’s high quality ingredients make it ideal for keeping moisture in and harsh chemicals out. It evens works as a color preserver, thanks to the beneficial rhatany root extract formula. It’s a unisex product, so don’t be surprised if your man dips into it to keep his coif carefully composed as well!

Big Sexy Hair Get Layered Hairspray ($11-18)

Now that you’ve perfected your salon quality hairstyle at home, it’s time to lock it all in place. You’ll need a spray that doesn’t add weight or leave that crunchy, oily, wet look we all cringe thinking about (1980s, anyone?). The solution: Big Sexy Hair Get Layered Hairspray – it’s magic in an aerosol can. Touted as the “driest hair spray on the market,” this award-winning product has been at the top of the charts for beauty buffs for several reasons. First, it won’t leave your hair looking shellacked. Second, it provides unbelievable shine while eliminating frizz. Third, it provides lasting light to medium hold. Don’t bother using this product for complex prom up-dos or uber-tight curls – it won’t do the job. But if it’s a natural look you’re going for, this is the product for you.

The post How to Pull Off Salon-Style Hair at Home appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Dana DeMercurio

Toxic shock syndrome doesn’t often make the press, so when California model Lauren Wasser divulged in a Vice article a few months ago that she lost her leg in 2012 due to TSS, it caught international attention and raised thousands of questions about tampon awareness and safety. As for consumers, we suspect that vaginas around the world clammed up in shock and horror at the thought of losing a leg to this syndrome (isn’t having a period rough enough?).

With this recent alarming case, it had us pondering: when was the last time you opened a box of tampons and actually read the how-to pamphlet and associated text regarding the very real and terrifying toxic shock syndrome? If the answer you’re searching for is never, then here’s a little refresher course courtesy of Tampax:

“The warning signs of TSS include: a sudden high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, a rash that looks like a sunburn, dizziness, muscle aches or fainting or near falling when standing up. TSS can rapidly progress from flu-like symptoms to a serious illness that can be fatal.”

But here’s the truth: tampons aren’t solely to blame for this infection. Instead, it’s how the tampon interacts with your body as a whole. A tampon plays only a supporting role in TSS contraction; it’s only when mingling with bacteria already in the vagina that it can cause a serious and sometimes fatal reaction. The rare bacterial infection known as Staphylococcus aureus (commonly known as Staph) is what can cause a life-threatening drop in blood pressure and irreversible organ damage when paired with tampon use. Basically, vaginas are a petri dish of bacteria, and of the 20% of women who already carry Staph bacteria, using a tampon can create an ideal breeding ground for TSS and other complications.

It’s important to also mention the amount of chemicals being shoved “up there” when using a tampon. The tampon itself is made using rayon – a semi-synthetic fiber that, for the purpose of tampons, is bleached using toxic chemical compounds such as sulfuric acid, chlorine, caustic soda and carbon disulphide. And if you’re using scented tampons, well…add a few more chemicals to that list. How safe can all that be to your vagina, not to mention surrounding internal tissues? And if you think your vagina is safe once the tampon is taken out, think again. Tampon products often leave behind fibers that can not only cause TSS, but vaginal and bladder infections as well.

Many women believe that tampon maintenance simply means changing it every 8 hours or when it starts to feel heavy, but the ugly truth is there are plenty of ways women are using their tampons incorrectly, which could result in TSS or other vaginal infections.

If tampons make up your entire menstrual product arsenal, then make sure you’re hitting these three key hygiene tricks to keep you and your vagina virus-free.

Wash your hands BEFORE insertion: A lot of women only wash their hands after inserting a tampon, but imagine the plethora of bacteria already living on your fingertips and under your nails just from the bathroom door handle alone! If you’re not washing before insertion, you’re potentially shoving lots of disgusting germs into your vagina by contaminating the tampon.

Don’t use tampons for heavy discharge: Discharge is a normal occurrence before and/or after a menstrual cycle, but plugging it with a tampon is not the solution. Using a tampon for discharge can mess with your vagina’s pH balance and natural acidity, potentially wreaking havoc on your health. It’s definitely best to use a panty liner when experiencing discharge.

Keep the String Clean: A lot is going on in your nether-regions during your period, and keeping the tampon string clean is often overlooked. Peeing can cause a wet, stinky string that may need to be changed (because who wants a pee-soaked string in their underwear all day?). Keeping the string clean after a bowel movement is important as well. If bacteria lands on the string via wiping, it could easily find its way to your vagina and create a whole host of problems, including certain types of infections.

The post The Truth about Toxic Shock Syndrome appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Dana DeMercurio

It’s not always easy to look in the mirror and smile back at your reflection, especially when 10, 20 or even 30 pounds have (re)introduced themselves to your hips, thighs, breasts and butt. And thanks to celebrities and models on social media, television and fashion magazines, feeling inadequate can be a daily struggle for even the most in-shape women. Finding reasons to love your body is a real and constant struggle for millions of women worldwide, and it’s not always a topic that’s easy to talk about. Don’t let outward appearance rob you of all the good inside of you, ladies. There’s more to life than perky boobs, a round butt and flat stomach with a six-pack of abs.

Because we know what you’re going through, here’s a few helpful tips to keep your mind focused on the positives, regardless of what’s got you down in the dumps. Stay open-minded and open to change, and these are sure to help in your journey to emotional (and even physical) bliss.

1.  Life is Short – Don’t Waste Time Hating Your Body

“You only live once” (or YOLO, as the kids say these days) – it’s not a bad phrase to live by. Imagine all the time you’ve already wasted worrying about your physical appearance instead of going out and enjoying your life! Try not to let your current appearance dictate your happiness.

2.  Limit Your Social Media Presence

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat. Depending on who you follow, it’s like watching a highlights reel of other women’s lives, without all that drama (screaming kids, adult acne, unshaved legs, etc.) that “normal people” have to endure. Newsflash, ladies – it’s fake. No one’s life is perfect, and certainly not as glamorous as others make it out to be. Inundating your brain with images of women with unrealistic body types and lifestyles isn’t going to help you love yourself, so perhaps it’s time to walk away from all the social media apps for a while. You don’t need “friends” or “followers” that make you think less of yourself, right?

3.  Count Your Body’s Blessings, Not Blemishes

Your body is an amazing work of art, a precious vessel and a limitless instrument. Respect your body for what it is – imperfect, beautiful, unique and all your own. While it may never be what you want or expect it to be on the outside, remember to count your blessings for all the working parts on the inside. We’ve found that starting your day with a quick “thank you” to your body for all it does can help jumpstart a lasting positive attitude.

4.  Dress for Success

Squeezing into a size seven when you’re really a nine isn’t going to help you feel better about your current body size. This can only cause fat-shaming and self-punishment. Instead, dress for the body you have, wear clothes that are comfortable to you and your body, and ditch old clothes that no longer fit. Keeping those skeletons in the closet will only be a constant reminder of your “better self,” and that negativity isn’t going to help at all. Focus less on the size and more on the satisfaction you get from a form-fitting pair of jeans or bra.

5.  Step Off the Scale

Starting every morning by stepping on the scale can be an instant mood crusher. Don’t let the scale steal your happiness! Instead, find joy and gratitude in the sheer fact that another day has been given to you. Don’t squander it with self-loathing. This will give new meaning to the motto “rise and shine.” Allow every day to be a new beginning towards your physical and emotional goals.

6.  Take Time to Listen to Your Body

Your body is your friend. I repeat – your body is your friend. Don’t be the enemy in this situation. Take the time to listen to your body’s needs and provide it with everything it needs to be happy and healthy, both inside and out. When you find yourself standing in the mirror objectifying yourself, close your eyes, find your heartbeat and listen closely. “If people are able to stand inside their bodies and feel their body, they have a good sense of what’s happening inside themselves, and they’re less likely to objectify themselves,” says Vivien Ainley, a doctoral candidate in neuroscience at Royal Holloway, University of London. Ainley co-authored a study that found people who hear their hearts are less likely to view themselves as objects. It might sound simplistic, but sometimes it’s the simple things in life that make the most sense.

The post Learning How to Love Your Body appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

Five Top Tips for Car Seat Sanity

By Jon Sumroy

I am mad

Bangkok, Thailand. Six of us crammed into a two-seat Tuk-Tuk (a three-wheel rickshaw). My wife, four children and me; careering through the traffic, the pedestrians, the lights and the fumes. Wind in our faces, legs out the sides, bags piled on laps. It’s part of the culture, the experience, the vacation. But it’s crazy!

We’re never so reckless at home: never allowing more people than seatbelts, always fastened, luggage stored correctly, respecting the laws of the road. Why do humans so easily excuse ourselves, ignore common sense, justify our actions and take ridiculous risks?

Everyone is mad

Yet we do this every day, with our children.

Fifty percent of US kids don’t have the correct booster seat when carpooling^[1]. One in five parents whose children carpool say they “bend the rules”, allowing children to ride without belts, booster or child restraints. Two-thirds of parents say they notice other carpool drivers bending the rules, too.^[2]

And it’s not just in our own cars. Taxis are exempt from the car seat laws, but this does not make them safe. Rental car companies extort $5 a day, for a seat; covered in another child’s dinner or worse. On vacation, when the airline won’t allow extra hand luggage. With a friend, relative or neighbor for a quick journey round the corner. Even with safety seats, you can’t fit three in a row, so it’s “scissors/paper/stone” to see who takes the risk. And then we have big kids. Not big enough to graduate to adult seatbelts, but big enough to fell babyish compared to their peers who have. How many parents succeed in the daily fight; or just give in.

Five Top Tips for Car Seat Sanity

So what to do? Well, it comes down to planning and discipline.

Carpools

You always have carseats for your own children but not for others in the pool. Set up a routine: leave your child’s seat with school bags overnight, ready for the next day when the carpool arrives. Lobby schools to provide storage so seats will be available for the journey home.

Relatives

It’s about time-management. Build time into every plan to juggle the boosters from car to car. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) report more than 20 percent of parents rarely talk about the type of restraint their own child uses in another person’s car. Whenever someone else takes your child, have the ‘carseat’ discussion.

Vacations

I was mad in Thailand, but you don’t need to be. Consider you carseats as valuable luggage. Wrap it well, check it in, add ‘fragile’ labels, examine for damage and use it on every journey.

Rentals

I had a long conversation recently with a leading rental agency employee. He confided that, in the cut-throat world of car rentals, margin are so slim that they can make more money renting the booster seats than they do the cars. A typical booster cost $30 and they can rent it out for $5 a day for six months. Do the math! It’s not surprising that they are dirty and disgusting. Take your own carseats! You know its history and you know where it’s been.

Three-in-a-Row

We all have to make sacrifices. And this is one. There are very few cars, even large ones, designed to accommodate three carseats in a row. Manufacturers add space and comfort to the side seats at the expense of the middle. Don’t take the risk! A child who needs a carseat, needs a carseat. In a collision, the injuries a child sustains when only using the adult seatbelt can be horrific. Please … just don’t do it.

The future

Now is the time for some future gazing. Would’t it be great is there was a booster seat that was so small, yet so safe, it would be easy for a child to have it with them at all times. Something so advanced, compact and portable, it could be stored almost anywhere. That way children could always be safe, no matter whose car they were in. Watch this space http://igg.me/at/mifold/.

About the author: Jon Sumroy is the inventor and CEO of mifold – the Grab-and-Go booster seat, the most advanced, compact and portable booster seat in the world. mifold is more than 10x smaller than a regular booster seat and just as safe.

^[1] Carpooling and Booster Seats: A National Survey of Parents – PEDIATRICS Vol. 129 No. 2 February 1, 2012 pp. 290 -298(doi: 10.1542/peds.2011-0575)

^[2] Many kids using safety belts should ride in booster seats – Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Highway Loss Data Institute – Status Report, Vol. 49, No. 9 | November 6, 2014

The post Crazy Risks with Car Seats appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Dana DeMercurio

Bikinis are all 70% off, beach towels have been replaced with oversized fleece blankets, and sunscreen has been returned to its bunker on the bottom shelf of the beauty aisle. It’s official – stores have begun packing away summer and gearing up for what’s next.

While many mothers mourn the end of summer with the return of morning drop-offs at school, it’s time once again to embrace the dawn of a new season that’s fast approaching (40 days to be exact, but who’s counting?!) by oohing and aweing at the latest seasonal décor that’s eager to fill your home with festive cheer.

If these past few months of summer left your wallet a bit barer than you’d like to admit, then follow our tips on how to decorate for fall on a budget.

Backyard Floral Arrangements: Festive floral and foliage arrangements don’t need to be crafted by a professional. Step into your own back/front yard and imagine the endless (and did we mention free) possibilities with colorful leaves and twigs, late-blooming flowers, pinecones or even foliage from your home vegetable garden.

Turning Tablescapes: Let’s be honest – holiday meals with extended family can be a pain. Don’t suffer through another family meal sitting next to your drunk uncle or moody teenage daughter who won’t put down her cell. Instead, take the extra time to create easy place cards for your guests. Simple scout out some large fall leaves, pick up a can of gold spray paint (optional) and a permanent pen and write your guests names on the leaves once you’ve washed and dried them. There’s nothing simpler than this budget-friendly addition to your tablescape this fall.

Apple Votives: Fill your home with the warm seasonal scent of apple crisp with these super-easy DIY apple votive candle holders. Invest in a bag of apples (preferably multicolored varietals such as fuji) and a bag of scented votive candles, both of which can likely be found at your local supermarket. Simple cut a votive-shaped hole into the apple’s topside, and insert a votive. For added beauty, float the new apple votive in a bowl of chestnuts or other festive arrangement.

Fill Jars and Vases: If you’re like me, you’ve got a rather embarrassing collection of empty glass containers currently collecting dust in the cupboard. Dust those babies off and start filling them with your fall finds. Pinecones, cinnamon sticks, acorns and even faux fruit make stunning centerpieces and home accents on a dime.

The post Decorating Your Home for Fall on a Budget appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Dana DeMercurio

Summer is nearly over, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. It’s almost time for pumpkin spice lattes, wet and windy weekends spent snuggling up on the couch binging on Netflix and, of course, essential fall fashion looks in full force. Bold colors and opulent textures make for the most luxurious layered looks this upcoming season. From ponchos to purses, we’ve got all the outstanding outerwear you’ll be craving for your fall fashion wardrobe. Browse our faves below, and be sure to click the image for purchasing options.

Outerwear

• Ponchos – Ponchos are one of our favorite ways to add serious style and instant chic to any fall outfit. From fitted to flowing, ponchos make an excellent alternative to the standard cardigan or blazer jacket. It might not be the easier trend to pull off depending on body type and height (ponchos are a lot of added material that can seem bulky), but pairing it with a knee-length dress or skinny jeans/leggings can be the perfect fit. Opt for ponchos with color blocking and embellishments for added sass and style, like the Renny Poncho by Parker ($396), a leader in women’s luxury fashion.

• Parkas – There’s nothing quite like zipping yourself into a puffy parka on a crisp autumn or winter day, am I right? A classic piece for staying warm while looking cool, parkas are one of the most understated coats that are making a serious comeback in 2015. Get your mitts on this hot-ticket item, especially those with a faux-fur trimmed hoodie like this one from Forever 21’s Women’s collection ($64.90).

Accessories

• Statement Pieces – Statement necklaces are definitely having a moment in fashion history, but there are other beautiful baubles waiting for their time to shine, especially bracelets – the perfect everyday accessory. This season, don’t pick just any bracelet, pick Simbi This eco-friendly and socially conscious collection of handmade bracelets come from the island of Haiti, and every purchase adds 15 more sustainable jobs to the country’s market along with provided clean and accessible water to native Haitians. With an assortment of colors and styles offering messages of peace, hope and love, you’re sure to find one that speaks to the humanist (and fashionista) in you!

Handbags

• Earth-Tone Purses – It’s time to pack away those bulky beach totes still full of Labor Day weekend’s sand and sunscreen, and instead reach for those rich earth-tone purses to heat up your favorite fall outfits. Get creative this season and stray from the traditional black or brown leather purses you’ve been clutching too long. Invest in bags that add a welcomed pop of color, like burnt orange, olive green, dark teal and rich plum. Our favorite is the Kendra Crossbody in tranquil teal by Infinite Universe. It boasts supple lambskin, fossil agate stone and African Blackwood in its detailing. And did we mention is currently on sale? Only $175 – down from $598!

Headwear

• Floppy Fall Hats – As one of the most overlooked accessory of them all, fall is the perfect time to sport some super-feminine headwear – and I’m not talking beanies and the like. A floppy felt hat or fitted fedora will add seriously sexy glam to any look. You can even take it from an office look to drinks after work look with ease. We’re coveting this crushed berry color hat currently on sale for $15 at Old Navy.

Footwear

• Bold and Brawny Boots – Footwear is always a smart investment, especially fall and winter styles. But imagine all of the snow, sleet, rain and mud your shoes endure during these months. It’s no wonder women seem to have to replace their precious boots every season! Get smart this year and invest in footwear that will actually last past the first snowfall. Iffy materials like leather and suede are a recipe for disaster in months that experience excessive weather, so switch over to synthetic leather on days when your footwear may be in danger from the elements. We LOVE these faux-leather Trixie Booties by G by Guess, and we love the price even more – only $56.99!

The post Fall Fashion Essentials 2015 appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Dana DeMercurio

In a 2012 physician member survey conducted by the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA), over 500 doctors were questioned about their patient’s attitudes toward vulvovaginal laxity (vaginal “looseness”) with findings that made our jaws drops. Of the 563 respondents, 95% believed that vaginal laxity greatly affected sexual function in patients, and 54% considered it to greatly affect quality of life in patients. If those numbers don’t terrify you, they should.

The obvious factors of vaginal laxity or “looseness” are frequently associated with overuse (if there even is such a thing!), child birth and aging – effects often believed to be beyond restoration. Sure, there’s the go-to Kegel exercise that every female sex therapy book raves about that can be done in the comfort of literally anywhere, or the much more painful (not to mention ridiculously expensive) option of vaginal surgery (vaginoplasty). But what if we told you there’s a non-surgical treatment to help restore internal (vaginal) and external (labia) tightness with proven results within just three months?

Meet ThermiVa – the latest and greatest in thermal energy technology designed specifically for restoring sagging and/or loose vaginas. Before you write it off as an overpriced and more-than-likely impossible procedure, here us out on the benefits of this easy three-step treatment process.

Just like with other modern technology for cosmetic enhancements, ThermiVa also utilizes the simple application of heat to tissue in order to help strengthen and improve the integrity of the skin in designated areas. What sets ThermiVa apart from the rest is its innovative temperature controlled radiofrequency (RF) system, which is currently the first and only of its kind in the medical field used for non-surgical dermatological applications.

ThermiVa is a breath of fresh air for women who wince at the thought of going under the knife for cosmetic enhancements. Thanks to ThermiVa, all it takes is three quick trips to the doctor’s office to see results within just three months. “What we have experienced as physicians administering ThermiVa therapy for our patients is immediate results and gratification. The tissue literally changes before our eyes,” says Soyini M. Hawkins, MD, a physician currently administering ThermiVa treatments to scores of women looking for vaginal rejuvenation options. “We have turned skeptical optimists into believers and lifelong Thermi clients.”

The best part? There’s no downtime spent in pain! There’s not even a need for anesthetics during the thirty-minute long procedure, it’s that effortless. “When patients return for their next session and note a remarkable difference in their look, feel and pleasure it makes the thirty minute long, one on one session absolutely worth it.  It’s an exciting sense of accomplishment, similar to what is felt immediately post op,” says Hawkins.

During the (approximately) thirty minute procedure, a probe slowly passes back and forth on the desired zone of treatment and heated gradually to desired temperature to stimulate neocollagenesis (AKA new collagen). During this time, the probe induces tightness of the skin and surrounding areas (internal, external or both). It’s basically a face lift for your lady lips.

“Just because it works on their vagina doesn’t mean it will work on mine,” you might be thinking. To our skeptical readers, you’ll be happy to know that decades of research surrounding temperature controlled radiofrequency (RF) has proved that skin type (pigmentation or color) is not an issue with this type of energy. Unlike invasive, laser-based methods of vaginal rejuvenation, radiofrequency is even more effective in tissue that is naturally moist and hydrated – similar to women’s nether regions.

And if you think you’re the only one who will benefit from this treatment, think again.

“Our ThermiVa patients have quoted delight from their partners as well; some of which are oblivious to the fact that they are even having the treatments. One patient commented that her partner told her ‘I don’t know what you’re doing, but keep on doing it’! Another’s husband said she hasn’t felt that good since before she had children,” states Hawkins.

If you’re looking to bring confidence back into your life (and bedroom), visit ThermiVa.com to find a doctor near you.

The post Meet the Technology That Has Women Thinking Outside the Box on Vaginal Rejuvenation appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Greer Barnes

Despite the sweltering heat still making its way across the country, there are a few signs of the season to come. The days are getting shorter and as the sun sets, you can start to feels signs of the cool autumn air. Any fashionista will tell you that fall is the best season of the year because you can layer, layer and layer some more. And when it comes to finding pieces to layer, there’s nothing better or easier than accessories. Wear these five essential accessories separately for five different looks or put them together for an old school-meets-modern vibe suitable for any mom.

70s Sunglasses

Channel your free-spirit side with a pair of large, round sunglasses. This golden brown pair from Modcloth will work with all of your fall outfits. Bonus: the frames are large enough to cover tired eyes and dark circles. No one will know you were up all night taming your two-year-old.

The “New Neutral” Scarf

Black, brown, and beige scarves are versatile, but a print is a nice departure from the normal. That’s why a leopard print scarf in neutral tones (like this one from Sole Society) is the perfect fall scarf. The beige, black and brown colors will mesh with your wardrobe but the print will add a little “oomph” to a simple outfit.

The “Wear-it-Everywhere” Hat

Finding the perfect hat is about as hard as finding the perfect guy; you have to try a million on before finding the right one. This flattering floppy Modcloth hat will fix any fall fashion woes. Complete with a sweet bow, this olive green hat makes any outfit instantly chicer.

The “Worn Out” Ankle Boots

You may still rock your well-loved tall boots but this season you’ll be seeing more and more ladies opting for ankle-length pairs, especially ones that are distressed. We love the woven detail on the backs of this pair from Sole Society. The handy side zipper makes them easy to put on and pull off.

Statement Earrings

Statement necklaces were everywhere this summer, but this fall it’s all about the earrings. When you’re not finding yourself in a pair of earmuffs, opt for earrings like this dainty gold and crystal set from JCPenney. They’ll be pretty with both your favorite sweater and your nicest cocktail dress.

The post 5 Must-Have Accessories for Fall appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Dana DeMercurio

If you believe growing up is a trap, being an adult is overrated and Lucky Charm marshmallows are the most delicious breakfast food currently available on the cereal market, then this list is for you. Join us as we salute our inner child without an ounce of shame.

 1.  You find “coloring” therapeutic –

Maybe it’s the smell of a fresh box of crayons or the plethora of black and white pages with which to express your artistic creativity. Whatever your reason, cracking open a coloring book brings you inner peace and serenity on days when wine just won’t do the trick. Who are we kidding – wine always does the trick. Coloring is just plain fun.

2.  Eating sweets for dinner is often deemed appropriate –

Scarfing a carton of ice cream for breakfast, lunch or dinner is totally justifiable in our book, especially on a day off or after a long work week. If anyone gives you a sideways look, don’t hesitate to drop them. You don’t need that kind of negativity in your life.

3.  You listen to Disney music…by choice –

If you often find yourself alone in your car jamming out to your favorite songs from Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid, you just might be a child at heart. If you know all the lyrics by heart, you’re definitely a child at heart (*guilty*).

4.  You’re still (kinda) afraid of the dark –

Who says night lights are just for kids? The number of adults who are afraid of things that go bump in the night are higher than you might think, suggests Thomas Ollendick, professor of psychology and director of the Child Study Center at Virginia Tech. If fear of the unexpected keeps you up at night, like creepy crawlers or someone popping out of your closet, here’s a quick solution: face your fears rather than letting your imagination run wild during bedtime. Deep breathing and mediation often work for insomnia associated with fear of the dark.

5.  Throwing tantrums remain to be your “thing” –

Tired? Hungry? Sick? Not getting your way? Can’t reach the can of soup on the top shelf? If throwing a tantrum is your first method of handling these situations, you have more in common with your child than you think.

6.  You have trouble sharing…especially your food –

“L’eggo My Eggo” remains to be your morning, noon and night mantra. Parents often stress the value of sharing with their children, but how often do you bypass the opportunity? Yeah, that’s what we thought. Carry on, food hoarders, carry on.

7.  Naps are your jam –

Let’s be honest – napping at your desk, on your desk or under your desk is a weekly occurrence…and you have absolutely no shame about it. Sometimes adults need naps too, right? Even your doctor will agree – naps are healthy and can increase productivity!

8.  So are sleepovers –

Any excuse to give your hubby the boot and invite your girlfriends over for a long night of drinking and impromptu pillow fights is your idea of a Saturday evening well spent. Bust out the throwback yearbooks, crank up the tunes from your favorite decade and enjoy a night of reminiscing and relaxation.

9.  Your birthday isn’t just a day –

It’s pretty much the entire week leading up to it. Sure, turning 37 isn’t quite the same as turning 21, but it’s a celebration nonetheless. Any excuse to put on that little black dress and paint the town red is what your birthday is all about. Be sure to share your birthday present wish list with your loved ones, because let’s face it – you’ve had it ready to go since the day after your birthday last year.

10.  The cotton candy at sporting events is the only reason why you go to sporting events –

Pink, yellow and blue sugary sweetness – it’s a trifecta of flavor that brings your taste buds back to yesteryear time and time again. If you’re fingers aren’t temporarily stained with bright colored fluff, then you didn’t do your inner child justice.

The post 10 Signs You’re Still a Kid at Heart appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Greer Barnes

You know that woman. Maybe you see her dropping her kids off at school when you pull into the same parking lot. She may even frequent the same grocery store. Her skin is glowing and her eyelashes are long and dark without looking false. She’s a natural beauty…or is she?

In recent years it seems like everyone has been trying to pull off the “I woke up like this” look à la Beyoncé. Long gone are the days of looking like you meticulously applied your eye makeup and straightened your hair. For many moms, this laissez-faire approach to beauty is very welcome. The hard part: looking natural isn’t as easy as it appears.

Thankfully there is an assortment of products on the market that caters to women who want to look naturally beautiful without all of the work. When you use these five products, you’re five steps away from looking naturally, and like the title of a recent Beyoncé hit, flawless.

 1.  SimySkin Face Serum

When it comes to achieving the no-makeup look, great skin is key, but a busy mom doesn’t need a time-consuming, multi-step skincare routine. That’s why the SimySkin Face Serum collection is a dream. The serum comes in two types: Phase I for women ages 25 to 45 and Phase II for women 45 and older. Phase I is a hydrating serum that protects against signs of aging, while Phase II repairs and firms skin. Both serums provide sun protection, so applying a heavy sunscreen is one more step you can mark off your to-do list. Simply apply the serum twice a day post cleansing to start seeing results.

2.  Maybelline SuperStay Better Skin Foundation

Finding a foundation to match your skin can be difficult. What’s even more difficult: finding one that doesn’t look and feel like foundation. Maybelline is known for its impressive liquid foundations, and the SuperStay Better Skin Foundation may be one of the best ones yet. This baby provides medium-to-full coverage and improves your skin over time thanks to the bonus ingredient Actyl-C, a stronger form of vitamin C. Users claim the foundation looks and feels like real skin and they’ve been complimented on their skin since they started using it. Sign us up!

3.  Physician’s Formula pH Matchmaker pH Powered Bronzer (for lighter skintones)

These next two products are take-your-pick options. Physicians’s Fomula, the reigning queen of drugstore bronzers, hit the ball out of the park with the pH Matchmaker pH Powered Bronzer. Unlike most bronzers, this bronzer (available in Light Bronzer and Bronze) has a brown undertone rather than orange so you won’t have to worry about that dreaded fake tan look. The product’s formula also reacts to light, transforming into your perfect shade in 60 seconds or less. Dust the powder on your cheeks, nose and the sides of your forehead for the perfect sun-kissed glow.

4.  L’Oreal Paris Magic Lumi Highlighter Deep (for darker skintones)

If you have deep or dark skin, then you’ve probably had difficulty finding bronzers or contour shades to suit your skintone. Drugstore products and makeup brands in general are notorious for not having a wide enough range of colors to suit darker skintones. When it comes to creating a natural look, however, you don’t need a ton of bronzers, contour shades, or different concealers. You just need a little highlighter. The L’Oreal Paris Magic Lumi Highlighter in Deep doubles as a brightening concealer as well, so any signs of a late night can be covered up using this handy highlighter. Apply the product under and in the inner corners of your eyes, down your nose, across the middle of your forehead, and above your cupid’s bow for glow that looks lit from within.

5.  Milani Color Statement Lipstick – Nude Creme

Behold; this may be the nude lipstick to end all nude lipsticks, and it’ll only cost you around six dollars. The Milani Color Statement Lipstick in Nude Creme has a creamy formula that is easy to apply and is neither matte nor super shiny. While most nude lipsticks work on just a few skintones, Nude Creme is a neutral pink that looks great on everyone. The color will look like your natural lip color, just better. Want something a little brighter? Milani offers a variety of shades in the lipstick, ranging from pinks to purples and corals to reds. Plus, the gold packaging is super chic.

The post 5 Products for Achieving that ‘No-Makeup’ Makeup Look appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Dana DeMercurio

Dear Aunt Flow,

It’s over. I hate you. You’re no longer a part of the family. We’re breaking up. BYE.

Sincerely,

Disgruntled Monthly Bleeder

It might sound unnatural or even impossible, but thanks to modern medicine, ditching your period for months, years or even permanently is definitely within reach for certain women wanting to part with Mother Nature’s monthly “gift.” Sure, periods were great back when pregnancy scares were a real issue – because let’s be honest, we’ve all been there before – but if you’ve currently got a full house, an empty uterus and are just plain tired of menstruating, why not get rid of your period all together? For those seeking to part with their period, we’ve got some awesome news you should be privy to. But first – a fun facts about women’s most hated time of the month:

According to the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals, the average woman has an estimated 450 periods in her lifetime – three times the amount of our hunter-gatherer ancestors. There are several factors that have induced these elongated cycles, including less years pregnant or nursing, environmental factors and hormonal changes associated with modern lifestyles.

While periods are much more manageable with the onslaught of modern birth control options for single and married women, it still leaves many questioning the safety and overall normality of no longer having a menstrual cycle. In fact, over 80% of menstruating women are afraid that suppressing or stopping their period could cause long-term health effects later on down the road. But like we said, there’s awesome news.

Thanks to recent medical research and comprehensive studies, 99% of female OB/GYNs agree that menstrual suppression – the daily use of oral contraception to stop monthly bleeding – is actually safe for their patients, according to a Gallup poll. If this isn’t music to the ears of women with debilitating periods, it should be. These gynecologists are literally saying that there is no medical reason why women who don’t want to conceive should ever have or need a period. Ever. Again.

It’s a natural response for skeptical women to question the physical and biological harm of not having a period. What happens to the blood? Will it back up into my uterus? Will I develop cancer? Here’s the truth: if a woman is taking the Pill on a continuous cycle without breaks, the combination of estrogen and progesterone in the birth control will actually keep the womb wall thin, so no blood is being lost. There is, however, a chance that women can experience breakthrough bleeding – an episode of light menstruation due to the womb lining building up an excess of blood (not to be confused with the typical bleeding during monthly periods.)

Yet with all good news must come the bad. Sure it’s easy to get rid of your period through the deliberately daily use of birth control pills, IUD implants (Mirena) or injections (Depo- Provera), but just like with most every other medical application, there’s always a downside. Most women have heard horror stories from others about the consequences of using lab-created medicine to suppress periods, all of which should be taken into account and assessed based on individual use. Implants and injections have faced the brunt of skepticism due to their varying responses from users, some even blaming the product for causing cysts, blood clots and rare cases of strokes. In contrast, the nonstop use of the Pill has been found to reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer by nearly 50% due to the suppression of cell division per month.

The New England Journal of Medicine’s landmark study published in 2013 did, however, find that intra-uterine devices that released hormones actually improved health outcomes for women with heavy bleeding more than taking oral birth-control pills. These women were suffering from periods that were beyond the normal inconvenience or discomfort; these women’s periods were debilitating and unendurable.

It’s not coming up roses for certain women, sad to say. Ladies over the age of 35 and those who smoke are not encouraged to take the Pill back-to-back in order to suppress or stop her period. The same applies to women who are in jeopardy of or prone to heart attacks, heart disease, blood clots, high blood pressure or diabetes as this could cause serious irreparable damage to your internal lady parts and overall health.

If you’re considering putting an end to your period, talk to you OB/GYN about your options before making any changes to your established birth control routine.

The post Do Women Really Need a Period? appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Megan Walsh

I am a fundraising rookie – my first born darling daughter just started Kindergarden 2 weeks ago so what do I know about fundraising, aside from the general anxiety the mere word evokes?

Hello, crowdsourcing! Through my work at Schoola I am exposed to over 16,000 schools nationwide who all have their own fundraising challenges and success stories.

While there is no one-size fits all fundraising solution, we have heard over and over from our partner schools that the key for planning the right mix of events is marrying 3 critical components…

Citizenship – There are so many companies out there claiming to be “the best” way to raise money – the sheer number of options is one of the things that makes a rookie like me sweat. The truth is that it will likely take a mix of 2-3 things to satisfy your school’s need for financial support. So how to decide? Using your school’s creed or values as a barometer for selection is the best way to decide which fundraisers are best for your school.

• If your school is distinguished for achievement in reading, hold a book fair!

• If your school is proud to offer the only arts program in the district, put your kids’ work on display at an art auction!

• Does your school have a commitment to improve student nutrition? Produce and sell a cookbook!
  

School pride around your specific culture is a great way to motivate kids and parents alike to help reach a goal. It is likely that these special and distinguished programs already have their own staff of people invested in continuing their future – hello, ready made event committee! In addition, there are parents who probably chose your school based on these special characteristics and are therefore more likely to get involved to keep them alive. For that reason, you should always be specific in your request for parent involvement and provide a visible tracking system that shows how far away you are from your goal – IE: We need to sell 450 cookbooks to fund this year’s chef program – that’s 2 per student – lets do this!  

Community – the most successful fundraisers will allow for reach outside of just your parent community. Casting your net wider than just the busy parents on your PTA roster will lessen the burden on crazed parents, and allow you to tap into the spending power of doting grandparents and friends.

• Raffles are a great way to extend participation because many can be hosted online, and therefore open up your possible audience to friends and families of schools, not just people who attend a live event. Your community can also be a great source of raffle prizes – businesses in the area will likely want to generate new business by offering gift certificates to your community. You can even support the businesses of families in your school by offering them advertising in exchange for raffle prices. In addition, many larger organizations offer FREE raffle prizes for public schools that are non-profits: for instance Disneyland donates 4 tickets to any nonprofit every year!

• My favorite recent trend in fundraising involves hilarious challenges showcasing School Superstars like Principals, Sports Coaches and beloved Teachers. Nothing I’ve seen gets kids more motivated to reach a fundraising goal than the chance to see the somebody get dunked, shaved, or put to the test. Yes, you can even bring in a professional basketball team to play against your teachers and watch hilarity and school spirit erupt on your home turf! I’m all for things that bring families together to giggle and have a great time at school.

Convenience – Provide easy, everyday ways for parents to support the school. Big events such as fun runs and raffles require a lot of manpower, and they only happen a few times a year, and not every family can attend due to vacations, work, etc.

• Allow for easy donations to a general fund. Friends and family who have gone Paleo or are practicing Kon-Mari may not want to buy wrapping paper or cookie dough, but are happy to provide the $10 they would have spent on that well-meaning clutter directly to the school’s bank account. Make it easy for every well-meaning supporter to give at their convenience! Many employers offer matching, which often makes this the most impactful way to give. Paypal offers tools for accepting donations and dealing with matching so its more seamless than it seems.

• Provide non-monetary ways to give. One reason I love Schoola’s approach to fundraising is that it turns household items into cash for schools, and therefore provides ways for families to participate without opening their wallets! Another benefit Schoola’s clothing drives provide for my school is a teachable moment about reusing and recycling – it’s better for the planet and fits into our core curriculum around creative problem solving.

I hope that by now you have deduced that the 3Cs are just shorthand for focusing on the things that strengthen your school experience – I wish each and every reader a successful fundraising year and want to thank you for reading articles like these to try to find the most efficient way to support our kids. Onward!

About Megan: Megan’’s favorite school memory is discovering a Peer Counseling program that helped her become a leader in her toughest year of grade-school – when she grew 11 inches in 12 months, and moved / changed schools as a fifth-grader. Now she is a mom of two bay area babes, and spends the work week helping more parents find and leverage schoolas to fund their school programs. 

The post The 3Cs of Fundraising – Top Tips Culled from Over 16,000 Schools appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

Cybersecurity Expert Says Ensuring That Customer Data Is Safe Should Be A Priority

Making a purchase or other payment is not like it used to be.

These days, cash and credit cards aren’t the necessities they once were because alternative-payment options are just a tap or two away on a mobile device through apps such as Google Wallet, Apple Pay, Square, Levelup, Kash and PayPal.

But just how secure are those mobile-payment apps and who makes sure that the companies behind them are doing all they can to keep your personal data safe?

The Clearing House, an advocacy group owned by the world’s largest commercial banks, is raising those questions and others in a new report titled “Ensuring Consistent Consumer Protection for Data Security: Major Banks vs. Alternative Payment Providers.”

The report argues that while these providers, operated by both established companies and start-up firms, are subject to some data-security requirements, they don’t face the more extensive regulatory oversight banks do when it comes to cybersecurity. That makes it easer for security flaws to go undetected until a breach actually happens.

The Clearing House report raises legitimate concerns, says Gary Miliefsky, CEO of SnoopWall (www.snoopwall.com), a company that specializes in cybersecurity.

“These alternative-payment methods certainly are providing something that consumers want, which is a convenient way to make payments,” Miliefsky says. “But I don’t think most of those consumers would be too thrilled to know that these companies might not be subject to the same demanding data-security requirements their banks deal with.”

It’s serious business when companies don’t do enough to protect their customers’ data, Miliefsky says. Waiting to act after a breach happens is too late because at that point customers are at risk of becoming victims of fraud or identity theft.

“Unfortunately, a lot of companies don’t realize just how vulnerable their apps are and what the potential is for leaking their customers’ personal information,” Miliefsky says.

In its report, the Clearing House made several recommendations and observations, including these related to legislation that would establish additional data-security requirements for alternative-payment providers:

• Data Security Act of 2015. This proposed law would establish flexible and common-sense standards for firms of all sizes to follow in order to secure consumers’ sensitive financial information and prevent breaches. The law would also give the Federal Trade Commission express enforcement authority in this area, while making clear that the standards are not applicable to financial institutions already subject to similar requirements from banking regulators.

• More resources. To exercise any new authority successfully, the FTC would need more resources to properly staff investigations and enforcement actions, the report said.

• Better security. Additional legislation might make it clear that alternative-payment providers are subject to the same type of scrutiny with respect to data security as banks. That could be done by directly giving the FTC or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau examination authority, or by directly requiring the CFPB to enact rules defining larger participants in the alternative-payment industry.

If they aren’t already, and regardless of any proposed legislation, the alternative-payment providers should look into better ways to protect their mobile apps from hackers intent on doing harm, Miliefsky says.

There are several ways to do that. Miliefsky’s company, for example, offers the AppShield SDK, which can secure any mobile app on all major platforms.

“What the AppShield SDK basically does is make your company’s app invisible to any other app on the mobile device that otherwise might be able to eavesdrop on it,” Miliefsky says. “I liken it to the way a B2 bomber employs stealth technology to evade radar detection.”

Failing to act isn’t good for the customers – and ultimately the business, Miliefsky says.

“These alternative-payment apps are a great convenience,” he says. “But if they aren’t secure, the result could be a huge inconvenience for their users.”

About Gary S. Miliefsky

Gary S. Miliefsky is CEO of SnoopWall (www.snoopwall.com) and the inventor of SnoopWall spyware-blocking technology. His company produces AppCrusher, which gives companies a detailed analysis of any vulnerabilities or risks in their mobile apps. Miliefsky is a founding member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and serves on the advisory board of MITRE on the CVE Program, and is a founding board member of the National Information Security Group. He’s also the original inventor of the NetBeat NAC product line which was recently acquired by SnoopWall to protect networks from the inside and against bring your own device (BYOD) mobile threats.

The post How Vulnerable To Hackers Are Mobile-Payment Apps? appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Lauren Putnam of McCarthy Music (www.mccarthypiano.com)

It’s no secret that music enriches lives. In fact, according to the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), 85% of people who do not play a musical instrument say they wish they had learned to play one. And, when it comes to kids, learning a musical instrument has numerous benefits.

Music not only expands the mind, but encourages creativity, discipline, and patience as well. It gives kids an outlet to express themselves, and offers a refuge when needed. The intellectual challenge also strengthens the brain, and can actually help defend against cognitive decline later in life. Playing an instrument can also help develop motor skills, since it requires being able to move hands, fingers, and feet, all while reading music and breathing correctly.

While all the benefits are well worth it, it takes a team effort between you and your child for them to be positively impacted. These tips from McCarthy Music can help create an encouraging and supportive environment for your child to not just learn how to play, but to enjoy it as well.

Practice together!

It’s no secret that your child loves to be involved in anything you’re doing – make practice time something to bond over! Setting aside an hour of your day to spend with your child during practice time makes learning how to play the piano and any other instrument a fun and memorable experience for both parents and children.

Set goals

At the beginning of each week, talk with your child and see what they’d like to accomplish that week. Whether it’s learning a new song or mastering a technique, it’s important to show them that you’re involved in what they’re trying to achieve. Work toward the goal with your child and be there to provide motivation when frustration arises.

Reduce screen time

Instead of settling for television or tablet time, encourage your child to practice to pass the time instead. Challenge them – have them play their top five favorite songs for you to make it more fun.

Stay involved

Keep your own practice schedule up to date! Play in front of your child and show him or her that your progress is important to you – this will motivate them to be just as good as mom or dad!

Keep it fun

Learning the ins and outs of an instrument is hard for everybody. Make sure to maintain your cool when your child gets frustrated – sometimes it’s okay to take a break!

Music is well worth the effort, and learning how to play can help children thrive. Encouraging and supporting your child in this learning experience can make a world of difference to them, and change their lives forever.

The post A Family Who Plays Together, Stays Together appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Marsha Friedman

A well-written and regularly updated blog is a great marketing tool for a variety of reasons.

A blog drives people to your website, helps you build your personal or company brand, and allows you to develop a relationship with customers or readers.

But let’s face it, the blog that you vowed to update every two or three weeks can seem like another mind-numbing chore as time passes and your enthusiasm wanes.
What’s worse is that, pretty soon, you start running out of material. After all, you already covered everything obvious and worthwhile, right? What’s left to write about?

Plenty, as it turns out. You just need to put yourself in a position to attract great ideas and snag them as they whiz by. Let me nudge you in a few directions that should help feed the blog beast that haunts your doorstep every couple of weeks or so.

• Follow the daily news to see what’s creating a stir nationally, internationally or within your industry. For example, the recent debate over whether the mountain in Alaska should be called Denali or Mt. McKinley could be fodder for someone who blogs about mountain climbing, the outdoors or, perhaps, presidential history.

• Check social media to see what topics have people the most excited. Twitter and Facebook track trending topics that generate a lot of buzz, and those could provide jumping off points for your next blog entry.

• Steal from yourself. Revisit ideas from blogs past, but give them a fresh approach. Even newspapers and magazines will resurrect topics they previously wrote about, wagering that few readers will care or recall that the same subject was explored two or three years ago. You can do the same.

And remember, there’s no need to wait until the last minute to start formulating ideas. Keep an ongoing list, adding to it whenever a topic pops into your head.

Once you decide on a topic, here are a few tips for fleshing it out into a quality blog entry and for attracting the greatest number of readers:

• Online searches are your friends. Background information about your topic is just a search phrase away using Google or another search engine. Look for real-life examples or recent news on your subject to add depth and reinforce your point of view. Just make sure your sources are legitimate. You will want to cite those sources, too, because that will add to the credibility of your post.

• Statistics, studies and surveys. Specific numbers and recent studies also bolster the points you want to make. You could, for instance, write that “there are a lot of libraries in the U.S.” But it’s less vague and more impressive to write: “The American Library Association estimates there are 119,729 libraries in the U.S.” While you can often track down surveys, studies and data with a general Google search, you also can zero in on specific websites. For example, if you are writing about a medical topic, the Centers for Disease Control provides numerous statistics about how many people suffer from various maladies.

• Integrate SEO keywords. People search the Internet using keywords or phrases they hope will uncover articles or websites with the information they want. The more you understand which keywords could bring the highest amount of traffic to you, the better, so research what might work best. You can integrate those keywords into a headline or the body of the blog entry. Keywords shouldn’t be too generic, though, or else your blog will be lost in a blizzard of other blogs, websites and news articles that use the same words.

Coming up with and carrying out great blog ideas on a regular basis certainly presents a challenge, but not an insurmountable one.

And, with any luck, your worries soon could change from “What’s left to write about?” to “How will I ever find time to write about all these great ideas?”

About Marsha Friedman

Marsha Friedman is a public relations expert with 25 years’ experience developing publicity strategies for celebrities, corporations and media newcomers alike. Using the proprietary system she created as founder and CEO of EMSI Public Relations (www.emsincorporated.com), an award-winning national agency, she secures thousands of top-tier media placements annually for her clients. The former senior vice president for marketing at the American Economic Council, Marsha is a sought-after advisor on PR issues and strategies. She shares her knowledge in her Amazon best-selling book, “Celebritize Yourself,” and as a popular speaker at organizations around the country.  

The post How to Generate Blog Ideas that will Keep Readers Coming Back appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

Courtesy of Dale Noelle and truemodel.net

Fall is fast approaching and it’s time to trade in the tank tops and shorts for more seasonally appropriate pieces. It’s imperative to not lose sight of style as the cold weather hits. Here are some tips to staying stylish (and warm) during the transition:

1.  Recognize your body type-

The female body varies in shape and size. If you have an hourglass shape, be sure to accentuate your tiny waist line. Belted jackets that cinch around the waist will bring your shape much positive attention. For the apple-shaped, or rounded, female, focus on the shoulders and leg area; this will minimize your midsection and create the S-curve illusion. Flowy fall tops or swing coats for chillier weather will be the most flattering. If you are noticeably heavier in the midsection and have a slim lower body (carrying all the weight toward the tummy area), aim for cropped jackets with banded bottoms that will again, create the illusion of a smaller waist. Pear shaped women with wider hips should accentuate their top halves and create balance. Structured jackets with details and fun patterns draw the attention to the top half of the body. A diversion of the attention to the lower half will create a more balanced body perspective. Remember, all bodies are different and it is up to you to decide what is more aesthetically pleasing. The key to styling for your body is creating the shape you desire and a balance so the body will be desirable to others. 

2.  Be mindful of the colors of the season-

Earthy neutrals are in this season. Fashion forecasters have foreseen sage, rose, and ranges of bold colors reflecting landscape (full of blues, browns, greens, and grays) as the colors of the upcoming fall season. Choose the color(s) that pop(s) against your skin. Do not be afraid to mix and match the colors. Fall is colorful in itself. Stay festive. 

3.  Layer, layer, layer-

The season is changing. Be bold! Do not be afraid to layer your clothes as you mix those colors. Always be mindful of styling for your shape; do not disguise your body under a plethora of items, but, rather, mix and match to create a nicely balanced full ensemble. Try a nice blouse with an outer jacket with an accessory piece such as a belt or a scarf. The great thing about this season is it is the perfect blend of warm and cool. The options are endless! 

4.  Wear your confidence-

No matter what garment you wear, remember YOU are carrying it; do not let it carry you. The most important piece you carry with every outfit will be your confidence. You confidence stays with you through all four seasons and will be consistently striking if exercised daily. 

Fall: a season of color, change, and celebration. Let your fashions match the season!

The post Styling tips for Fall by Dale Noelle of true model appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.