Enchanted Mommy

Creating Lasting Memories: The Importance of Holiday Traditions with Your Children

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.

The Best Cities to See Santa

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.

Gender Disparities in Household Item Longevity

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.

Mommy Makeover: Glow-Up Addition

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!

Looking to host a party in 2023? These are America’s best cities to do it.

Moms know hosting a gathering can be an a stressful event. From the prep work, to the actually event, to the cleanup—It’s quite the undertaking. Despite this, many moms host a variety of events for friends and family, like a kid’s birthday party, Christmas, or a summer BBQ. Although you can host a knock out party just about anywhere in the U.S., are some cities better equipped to host than others? What makes a city top-notch for having company?

A recent study found the best U.S. cities for hosting, according to a variety of ranking factors that would make for an ideal hosting experience, from home amenities, hospitable rentals, and event planning resources. In total, 100 cities were analyzed across 16 ranking factors, including catering costs, home square footage, on-street parking, surrounding Airbnb rental availability, internet speeds, crime rates, grocery costs, and more!

According to the study, Charleston, South Carolina is the best U.S. city for hosting an event. With a score of 79,3, the Southern city boasted affordable groceries, a surplus of Superhost and Airbnb Plus rentals for guests, and more. Daytona Beach, Florida (78.8); Fort Myers, Florida (77.1); Greenville, South Carolina, Orlando, Florida (76.7, tie); and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (73.3) round out the top five positions.

“From a surplus of Superhost and Airbnb Plus rentals to groceries priced below the national average cost, Charleston is where rich culture meets southern hospitality – it’s a way of life,” said the company. “As one of the oldest cities in the U.S., Charleston’s history can be felt and seen in any home. Whether you find a gorgeous Federal style home or Victorian single, many homes throughout the city will charm you and your houseguests.”

For a complete list of cities, check out the list.

Why a 7th Birthday Is Special!

Celebrating birthdays with your child or children is only going to get more and more fun over the years. Why? With each birthday and corresponding age, your child is developing their likes, dislikes, opinions, and it’s easier to shower them with events and excitement. They even understand the specialness of a birthday at this point. 

What Makes a 7th So Special

Let’s talk about age seven. The number itself is usually really special – seven is one of those mystical numbers in fairy tales, stories, movies, and lore. It’s also the age when your child is probably making the jump from preschool to grade school. That’s, for sure, something to celebrate, right? 

At this point, the parties are generally longer than an hour or an hour and a half. Guests are often playmates from school, activities, or neighborhood friends. If your little one is celebrating their seventh birthday at school, there’s never a wrong time to bring in cupcakes! 

For your celebration, consider making your child’s seventh birthday party special by planning significant gifts which support the theme of a special seventh. 

  1. Something they want

A great gift is usually something special an individual wants. It’s pleasantly frivolous, typically a toy or an outrageous outfit, accessory, or otherwise. 

  1. Something they need

Did your 7-year-old recently outgrow their soccer cleats and uniform? Did they start a sport you could outfit them in? Gifting your child something they need is a great way to build gratitude, and show them they’ve got the gear to do what it takes for a sport, hobby, or interest. 

  1. Something to read

Is there some book series, set, or universe you can help introduce your child to with books? Or, alternatively, if they’re interested in puzzles, a game-book is a good route to go. 

  1. Something to watch

This one can run the gamut from a video game to a video, a movie to a TV show series. It could be an app you purchase that helps your child learn something, or it could be a more interactive show than the ones running live on streaming services or cable. 

  1. Something they can wear

Whether they’re gifted a party outfit or a new pair of light-up sketchers, something to wear is a great gift for your seven-year-old. Having a new outfit for their party or celebration could be exciting, but it could also be exciting for them to have that pair of sneakers that are just a little too expensive for everyday wear or a costume of their favorite movie character.

  1. Something to play with

Toys are also in the categories of something they want and something to watch, but something to play with is always memorable. Gift sets of ponies, play gardening gear, hot wheels, and more are the type of gifts your seven-year-old will love. Pick a set based on their budding interests.

  1. Something to remember 

At age seven, I received my first cross necklace. It was a special gift and signified a new age of independence, guided by my values and ideas. With that in mind, gifting your child something to remember —  whether it’s an important accessory like a necklace or watch, or instead an event like Monster Jam or Frozen on Ice — is the ultimate way to make an experience a magical memory.

Small Business Saturday: Support Someone’s Childhood Dream

Small Business Saturday encourages holiday shoppers like me to shop small in the wake of big commercial holidays, offering a brick-and-mortar counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It makes shopping for presents for the kids a way to support your community.

If you’ve ever wanted to support a small business with more than just your dollar, you’re not alone. A new survey found that many Americans had childhood dream jobs that would lend themselves perfectly to a small business structure, whether it’s a ghost hunting business, an ice cream truck driver, or a tornado chaser! Big business doesn’t always leave room for the types of big dreams that we hear about from our kids. Unless, of course, they like pretending to work for Apple or Amazon!

According to the study, nearly 60% of people said they still think about their dream job occasionally or often. One small business owner said when they were a kid, they wanted to be a chimpanzee caretaker! The job market for babysitting monkeys isn’t the easiest to get into. Although sometimes I feel like that’s my job as a mom!

As parents, many of us ask our kids, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Deputy’s research confirmed what I would have suspected — a professional athlete, famous actor, and legendary musician were some of the most popular answers. In actuality, those surveyed grew up to become a history teacher, a salesman, and a deacon, respectively! This is the story for many of us, but it’s not too late to support someone else’s dreams or go after your own.

According to the insights, two-thirds of people said they don’t think it’s too late to chase their dreams and that their dream has changed since they were younger. This is where the rubber meets the road in the aspiration of becoming a small business owner. Many were able to pursue their entrepreneurial endeavors only after gaining experience working for someone else. 

For some, owning a business is the dream — and for others, it’s being a mom. Whatever the job may be, participating in Small Business Saturday might at the very least be a  great way to off Thanksgiving dinner. More importantly, it supports the dreams that came true for many of owning a small business that serves its community. Don’t forget to mark Nov 26, 2022, and shop at any nearby stores as you collect your early Christmas presents. You never know— Santa himself may have started off wanting to be a small toy shop owner!

Keeping up a beauty routine as a mom

Between taking the kids to sports, staying on top of homework, cooking dinner, and wearing the many capes we superheroes put on each day, it’s no doubt that our own beauty and self-care can be put on the back burner at times. 

I wanted to know if I was the only one that goes through phases when it comes to my skincare. Of course, sometimes I’m very on top of it, but just like most things, other times life just gets in the way. I found one survey that said 30% of women never miss a day doing their skincare routine. While I strive to be that type of woman, I lean more towards the 70%. Another survey I found said that women said the most neglected parts of their bodies are their back and feet. If that’s not ironic, I don’t know what is. So this got me thinking. What tips can I use myself and try to help others so we can start taking care of ourselves?

  1. Make time for yourself

We make time for literally everything else. School, extracurricular activities, PTO meetings, date night, etc. Why not carve out time on a saturday morning or after work for a much needed facial or pedicure?

  1. Your well being is just as important as your loved ones

It’s easy to feel guilty about putting your needs first. “This is time I could be putting towards the family.” “This is time I could be putting into work.” Remember, you can’t give your 100% self unless you feel you are at 100%. Sometimes, a simple night time face mask can rejuvenate you into feeling recharged. 

  1. Treat it as a priority, not a reward

Self-care shouldn’t be looked at as something to reward yourself with after a long day of mommy duty, it should be part of your “task list”. Consider it one of the most relaxing “tasks.”

What to expect when your kids call home

One of the most exciting yet terrifying moments as a parent is when it is time for one of your children to leave the house. Whether they are off to college, the military, or moving away to gain independence; it can be one of the hardest yet proudest moments for parents. 

The good news is that they are only a phone call away. But how much can we expect to hear from them? 

Chicco did a new study about how much Americans call their parents and some of the big questions they might ask. It may come as no surprise that kids will likely call their dads about car problems and home improvement, whereas moms may get questions about cooking and relationships. 

Regardless, there is no guide to how to live on your own. The closest thing to it is a call to your parents.  

So moms, according to this article, here’s what to expect. Mama knows best, as they say, and 32% of Americans turn to their moms for major life decision advice. Another big call to prepare for is cooking advice. 22% of Americans turn to their moms for cooking tips because nothing beats a home-cooked meal made with love. A valuable gift is putting together a small cookbook of your children’s favorite easy recipes. The other big calls to expect are relationship advice and childcare tips. The first time for everything is scary, definitely need some advice from an expert! You may receive occasional questions about financial needs, home care, and laundry.

Now dads, get ready to take your How-To manuals and spreadsheets out. Fatherly advice is extremely helpful and valuable, and 28% of Americans call their dads for major life decisions. The following big calls are home maintenance (24%), car issues (22%), and finances (18.5%). The least expected calls are the parenting and babysitting tips and cooking advice. 

Regardless of what your kids are calling to talk about, whether a real-life problem or to say hello, 68% of Americans call their parents a fair amount—only 62% of parents expect a call. If you have a daughter(s), you can expect calls more often than if you have a son(s). No matter how you put it, parenting comes with challenges, and one important thing to remember is communication.

Just because they may be moving out, it does not mean your role as a parent stops. You have spent 18 years providing all the best life advice to prepare them for the real world. Find ways to communicate with your children while giving them the freedom to navigate their own life and be there for them to fall back on for advice, love, and guidance.

Brunch, please! These are the best cities for your next Sunday Funday.

Ecaterina Tanase

Calling all mommas! The verdict is in: you are required to phone your sitter and call up your girlfriends for a Sunday Funday. 

I know, I know. We all love our children dearly and want to spend our weekends with them. From soccer practice, to playdates, your Saturday and Sundays can be brimming with too many activities for you to take an afternoon for yourself. 

The thing is, moms do deserve time reserved for themselves on those busy Sunday afternoons, and it’s okay to call in some back up while you call up your girlfriends. 

That’s why I wanted to share this list of the best cities for a Sunday Funday to inspire you to take some time, grab some wine, and head out on the town. 

The team at Fashion Nova (you know, that clothing company you’ve probably seen all over social media) recently crunched the numbers on Sunday Funday hotspots across the country. First, they determined what makes the best Sunday, like best cocktails, most brunch spots, and affordability. Then, they weighted each factor on a 50 point scale to determine the best cities for your next Sunday Funday. 

Fashion Nova

So if you are in or near one of these top 10 cities, send this article to your besties so you can explore all of what Sunday has to offer. Your after work hours don’t always have to be so busy, girl! Sometimes we gotta be selfish on a Sunday so we can be refreshed for another busy week giving it all to our kids. 

Have fun!