Chronic back pain is the kind of thing that sneaks into your life and then stays forever. Mine started as a little tightness in my lower back after long car rides. Now it’s the first thing I notice when I get out of bed.

I used to think the answer was to lie down and “rest it.” That worked for about a day. Then I’d feel even stiffer. What actually helps me is moving, even when I don’t feel like it. A slow walk around the block. Ten minutes of gentle stretching before coffee. Nothing fancy, just enough to keep things from locking up.

I’ve also become very picky about my resting positions. A decent chair matters. So does not hunching over my phone for an hour. I keep a small pillow behind my lower back when I drive, and it honestly makes a difference.

Something that surprised me: where you live can affect how manageable back pain feels. I came across a study ranking the best and worst U.S. cities for dealing with chronic back pain, based on things like access to specialists and overall health resources. Who knew your ability to treat back pain could be location-based?

The bottom line is: there are plenty of things you can do at home to help ease your pain. Small changes and habits can really build healthy bodies. Here are my top 5 tips:

1. Keep moving (even a little).
Total rest usually makes stiffness worse. A short daily walk, light stretching, or gentle yoga can keep your back from tightening up. It doesn’t have to be intense. Consistency matters more than effort.

2. Strengthen your core the right way.
Think stability, not sit-ups. Exercises like bird dogs, dead bugs, and glute bridges help support your spine without straining it.

3. Fix your sitting habits.
If you sit a lot, set a timer to stand up every 30–60 minutes. Adjust your chair so your feet are flat on the floor, and avoid hunching over your phone or laptop.

4. Upgrade your sleep setup.
A sagging mattress or flat pillow can aggravate pain. Try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees, or on your back with a pillow under your knees to reduce pressure.

5. Know when to get checked out.
If pain travels down your leg, causes numbness or weakness, or doesn’t improve after a few weeks, it’s time to talk to a medical professional (and pray you’re in one of the better cities for treating back pain).

After all, it’s one of the most common chronic pains in America, and some back pain needs more than just home fixes. Even if your city isn’t as well-equipped to treat you, there’s definitely someone out there. You got this!

Every September, I get the itch to swap out my summer flowers for rust-colored mums and line the porch with pumpkins. There’s just something magical about greeting neighbors with a wreath of golden leaves and a flickering lantern.

This year, I’m adding a few extra twinkle lights and maybe a cheeky skeleton for Halloween night. Why? Because a well-loved yard feels like an open invitation to slow down and sip cider. Plus, it gives the kids (and let’s be honest, me!) a reason to grin every time we pull into the driveway.

And apparently, I’m not alone. I was looking for inspiration online and found a study on yard pride that said Americans take their outdoor spaces seriously, with half rating their pride an 8 out of 10 or higher. Whether it’s mums or monster inflatables, a little porch pizzazz is more than decor, it’s a love note to the neighborhood.

This weekend I’m planning a full on pumpkin takeover. I’ll stack heirloom pumpkins of every size along the steps, tuck a few mini gourds into hanging baskets, and finish it off with a giant Cinderella pumpkin right by the door. The porch swing is getting its own makeover too. I’m thinking of adding a cozy plaid throw, a couple of oversized knit pillows, and maybe a strand of warm fairy lights to glow during those crisp autumn evenings. I can already picture curling up there with a mug of hot cider while the kids carve their jack-o’-lanterns.

If you’re ready to sprinkle a little autumn magic outside your own front door, here are a few easy ideas that don’t require a huge budget or an entire weekend. These simple touches bring cozy curb appeal and set the scene for everything from crisp morning coffee to Halloween night candy handouts.

Easy Fall Porch & Yard Ideas

• Layer pumpkins: Mix sizes and colors: white, orange, even a few funky green gourds.
• Add cozy texture: A plaid blanket over a porch swing or rocking chair says “come on in.”
• String warm lights: Fairy lights or Edison bulbs create instant evening charm.
• Go natural: Cornstalks or a bundle of dried wheat add height and rustic vibes.
• Play with scent: A cinnamon-broom or apple-spice candle welcomes guests before they even knock.

As a mom, I’m always on the lookout for gifts that are thoughtful, easy, and a little bit indulgent—and candles check all those boxes. They’re cozy, practical, and feel like a small luxury at the end of a long day. Whether I’m shopping for a friend, a teacher, or just a little something to say “thinking of you,” candles are my go-to.

But let’s be honest: scents are personal. One person’s favorite fragrance might be another person’s instant headache. So how do you choose a candle scent that’s universally loved?

Thankfully, the team at Clean Beauty Collective did a little digging. They analyzed Google Trends data to find the most popular candle scents in every state.

Here are the top candle scents in your state:

Happy gifting—and don’t forget to grab one for yourself too!

Moms know that sacrifice is part of keeping everything running—balancing work, family, and precious sleep. For many, including myself, that means working the night shift to create stability. The pay and flexibility help, but missing family moments and fighting exhaustion are daily challenges.

The University of St. Thomas Houston recently ranked each state based on key factors, scoring them from 0 to 100 to determine the best places for night shift workers. So if you’re living in any of the states below and working the nights, you’re in the right place.

The Top 10 Best States to Work the Night Shift: 

1. Delaware

2. South Carolina

3. Alaska

4. Missouri

5. Pennsylvania

6. Virginia

7. Nebraska

8. North Carolina

9. Vermont

10. New York

I linked the full study here to see how your state compares and see a salary analysis by state as well!

The holiday season is not just about the twinkling lights and festive decorations; it’s a time to create lasting memories with our loved ones, especially our children. It’s important to establish and maintain holiday traditions with children, emphasizing the profound impact on family bonds and the treasure trove of childhood memories.

A new survey from jewelry retailer Shane Co. highlights the favorite traditions that families across the country have created and continue to celebrate year after year.

The Tradition of Matching Pajamas:

One heartwarming tradition that resonates with families across the nation is the act of donning matching pajamas. According to the survey, 32% of families are cozied together on Christmas Eve in their matching pjs. With options from many retailers and even some offering matching sets for the furry family members in your life, it’s an easy tradition to start – as long as everyone’s sizes are in stock!

Early Christmas Dinners and Family Gift Exchanges:

The joy of an early Christmas dinner and the tradition of exchanging gifts within the family contribute to a sense of anticipation and celebration. Shane Co.’s survey reveals that 74% of families partake in Christmas dinner on the day itself and 26% enjoy feasting on Christmas Eve. Opening presents early and enjoying a festive feast ahead of time becomes a cherished tradition, creating a sense of excitement and unity among family members.

Tips and Ideas for Meaningful Traditions:

Cookie Decorating Extravaganza: Gather the family for a fun and messy cookie decorating session. Let creativity flow as everyone adds their unique touch to delicious holiday treats.

Family Volunteer Day: Instill the spirit of giving by organizing a family volunteer day. Participate in local charity events or create your own acts of kindness, teaching children the true meaning of the season.

Storytime by the Fireplace: Establish a tradition of reading holiday stories by the fireplace. Choose classic tales or create your own family stories that can be passed down through generations.

DIY Ornament Crafting: Engage in a creative session of DIY ornament crafting. Each family member can design their own ornament, building a collection of handmade decorations that hold sentimental value.

Ok moms, I can’t be the only one who is excited about Christmas next week but also wincing at the sheer amount of money I’ve already spent this holiday season. The sad thing is, it’s not even on the presents.. It’s the amount of bottle brush trees and nutcrackers that I just HAD to have (and yes, they were on sale so I convinced myself it was fine.) But as I’ve been seeing articles about the cost of gifts and how much we’re planning to spend this year, I stumbled upon a survey that caught my attention and made me feel not so bad about my purchasing habits. 

Rainbow Restoration surveyed about 2,000 Americans and asked them to estimate how much they spend on decorations and how much they anticipate they’ll spend on meals next week. 

The Top 5 States That Spend The Most on Decor:

1. Maryland
2. New Mexico
3. Oklahoma
4. Kentucky
5. Tennessee

The Top 5 States That Plan to Spend The Most on Meals:

1. Mississippi
2. Alabama
3. California
4. Virginia
5. Tennessee

It looks like the big spenders are in Tennessee! The survey found the national spending average for decor was $147 and for meals it was $187.

If your kids are anything like mine, they stay up late on Christmas Eve tracking Santa as he travels across the globe. They love watching him travel across the computer screen before they tuck into bed so that Santa can make his way to our house!

They use the NORAD Santa tracker to keep track of Saint Nick, and according to a new study conducted by Assurance IQ, there are some other metrics our kids might want to take into account as well:

Their study found the cities with the clearest night skies and the cities where residents are tracking Santa the most to determine where you’re most likely to spot Santa in the night sky.

The results? Colorado Springs tops the list, followed by Denver, CO; Provo, UT; Albuquerque, NM; and Tucson, AZ. Albuquerque offers the clearest night sky for Santa visibility, while Albany, NY and Providence, RI have the highest amount of search interest for the NORAD Santa tracker on Christmas Eve.

If you live in one of these Santa-watching hotspots, good luck getting your little ones to bed on time!
You can find your city in the full study on the Assurance IQ website.

A recent survey, conducted by Joybird, which sheds light on the longevity of common household items, an intriguing revelation emerged: men and women exhibit distinct differences in the duration they keep various essentials. The survey, not only exposed a significant overall trend of retaining items 58% longer than recommended but also highlighted the nuanced gender disparities in these habits.

On a broader scale, men emerged as the champions of longevity, keeping common household items 14% longer than their female counterparts. Yet, as we delve into the intricacies, a compelling narrative emerges, shedding light on the dynamics within family spaces.

Men, it seems, have a penchant for holding onto smaller household items. Men exhibit a penchant for cherishing smaller household items. Whether it’s the familiar kitchen sponge, the trusted bed pillow, the well-trodden bath mat, or the ever-reliable toothbrush, these seemingly diminutive essentials find a more prolonged sanctuary in the homes of men. This sparks curiosity about the emotional bonds or perhaps the allure of procrastination that underpin their reluctance to bid adieu to these daily hygiene and cleaning tools.

Conversely, women grapple with a different set of challenges when it comes to replacement habits. Larger household fixtures and furnishings, such as decks, couches, TVs, and bed frames, find a more permanent home in spaces curated by women. These significant investments, both emotionally and financially, contribute to a more deliberative decision-making process, making women less prone to replacing them at the recommended intervals. It appears that women, tethered by familial ties and a desire for stability, are less inclined to part with these substantial elements of their domestic landscape.

The findings prompt us to ponder the underlying factors influencing our choices in retaining or replacing household items.Is it the shared emotional connections within a family that bind us to certain objects, or is it the sheer inertia of procrastination? Regardless, the survey’s findings underscore a clear gender divide, shaping how we navigate the lifecycles of our everyday essentials. Understanding these dynamics not only enriches our comprehension of household habits but also invites us to reflect on the collective decisions that shape the intimate spaces we call home.

A “glow-up” is essentially a metamorphosis for the better – be it in one’s looks, way of life, or self-growth. It’s a term that’s as diverse as it is popular, and involves leveling up in ways that elevate one’s confidence, self-worth, and overall fabulousness.

If you’re seeking to upgrade your life, whether through a wardrobe overhaul, a fitness journey, newfound hobbies, or some much-needed TLC, there are certain American cities that provide a more conducive environment for a fruitful glow-up. In this piece, we’ll delve into the top U.S. destinations for a transformational glow-up and why they’re perfect for your pursuit of self-improvement.

New York City, NY

It’s no surprise that the Big Apple tops the list when it comes to cities that inspire a glow-up. With its iconic fashion scene, endless fitness studios, and cultural diversity, New York City offers a wealth of opportunities for personal growth. From shopping at high-end designer stores in SoHo to sweating it out at a trendy boutique fitness class in Brooklyn, the city has something for everyone. Additionally, New York City is home to some of the best museums, galleries, and theaters in the world, providing ample opportunities to explore and expand your horizons.

Los Angeles, CA

Known as the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles is a city that is synonymous with glitz and glamour. From Hollywood Hills mansions to celebrity-packed juice bars, L.A. offers plenty of opportunities to live your best life. The city is also home to some of the best fitness studios in the world, offering everything from yoga to Pilates to CrossFit. Additionally, with its sunny weather and gorgeous beaches, Los Angeles is the perfect destination for outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and biking.

Miami, FL

If you’re looking to get your glow on, there’s no better place than Miami. With its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Miami is a city that is all about living your best life. From sipping cocktails at rooftop bars to dancing the night away at world-class clubs, Miami offers plenty of opportunities for fun and excitement. The city is also home to some of the best spas in the world, offering indulgent treatments like massages, facials, and body wraps.

Chicago, IL

Chicago may not have the glamour and glitz of New York or Los Angeles, but it more than makes up for it in charm and character. The city offers a wealth of opportunities for personal growth, including a thriving arts and culture scene, a vibrant food culture, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re taking a walk along the beautiful Lakefront Trail or exploring the city’s many museums and galleries, there’s always something new to discover in Chicago.

Austin, TX

Known for its vibrant music scene, mouth-watering food, and beautiful natural surroundings, Austin is a city that inspires creativity and self-expression. From exploring the city’s many parks and green spaces to indulging in some of the best barbecue in the world, Austin offers plenty of opportunities for personal growth and self-improvement. Additionally, the city is home to some of the best live music venues in the world, offering ample opportunities to discover new artists and connect with others who share your passion for music.

Whether you’re looking to revamp your wardrobe, get fit, explore new hobbies, or simply take some time for self-care, these cities provide the perfect backdrop for achieving your goals and living your best life. So why not plan your next adventure to one of these amazing destinations and see what kind of glow-up you can achieve.

Check out the full list of cities here. Good luck, mamas!

Alright boys and girls! Time to get your creativity caps on and the art supplies handy, because today, we’re learning about the letter O! So many wonderful words start with the letter O, like onion, over, oven, and orange. Even common phrases we read in story books start with O, like “once upon a time.” To help us learn this letter, we’re going to do an arts & crafts project with our favorite animal that starts with O: an octopus in the ocean.

We’re going to learn how to create a toilet paper roll octopus! To get started, here’s the supplies that you’ll need:

• A toilet paper roll 
• Acrylic paint or markers
• Googly eyes
• A glue stick
• A scissors
• A black sharpie

First, start by cutting 1.5 inch long slits at the bottom of the toilet paper roll with your scissors. Then push the roll down on a flat surface, so that the slits spread out like octopus legs. Next, grab your acrylic paint and paint the outside of your octopus a bold color of your choosing. Paint the interior of the roll at the top and underneath the legs a different color for contrast. Then, use a glue stick to stick on some googly eyes or feel free to draw the eyes on with a black sharpie. 

Use a black sharpie to add a happy smile onto that octopus face, because he or she is happy to be alive and in your home! Finally, feel free to add on stickers, gems, or other decorations to your heart’s content! Don’t forget to create 3-4 of these guys so your octopus can have some friends.

These octopuses are taking over the world of Pinterest right now, as parents are starting to get exponentially more creative with keeping their kids stimulated at home. See the photo of Holly Homer’s toilet paper roll octopus to catch a glimpse of the potential here!

Lastly, we’ve created a coloring book illustration of an octopus in his natural habitat. Octopuses are fascinating creatures with three hearts, high intelligence, and the capability to camouflage themselves by changing color. Feel free to print out copies and invite your kids to color this scene! 

Know any other fun preschool activities that start with the letter O? Feel free to share them with us in the comments below!