Everyday Life Archives - Painter Mommy

Secret Santa – 6 Savvy Gift Ideas to Get Your Secret Santa Swag Sorted Early

November 18, 2019 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

Image by Harry Strauss from Pixabay

If you’re like most people, you may not be so sure what to get your co-worker for the office secret Santa gift exchange. Even though you spend every weekday with your coworkers, it’s a challenge to find that one perfect gift that’s sure to please.

To help you get this task out of the way early this year, we’ve compiled a list of several great items any of your coworkers would be thrilled to receive. Don’t stress about secret Santa this year – ROCK IT!

1. Branded Corporate Gifts

What says “I appreciate you” more than a gift that’s actually usable? From USB Memory Pens to durable duffle bags, branded corporate gifts tend to go over well with most people.

The nice thing about these types of gifts is that the receiver can’t forget where the gift came from since it has the name of the company on it, and if you choose wisely, they’ll be able to use the gift regularly.

2. Fun Printed Socks

Everyone wears them, so why not take advantage of this and buy a pair of fun printed socks for your secret Santa? With a wealth of options online to choose from, there’s something for every personality.

Is the person you’re buying for a pizza lover? These pizza printed socks may make the perfect gift!

3. Hi-Tech Cleaning Cloth

Dust, oil, and smudges leave the screens on our devices downright filthy and it’s common to see people cleaning them with tissues, shirttails, and paper towels. All these things can damage the delicate glass, so giving your secret Santa a hi-tech cleaning cloth will help extend the life of their devices.

Designed in a wide array of colors and styles, these smart clothes are dual-sided to clean and polish any device screen surface.

4. Handy Cord Keepers

While technology constantly pushes us toward a more wireless existence, the reality is, everyone owns a pair of corded headphones or two no matter how crazy their tangled cords make us.

Help your coworker stay a tad saner with handy cord keepers. Handmade and designed to be simple to use, a pack of three gives your coworker plenty of ways to keep all the cords in his or her life tangle-free.

5. Adult Coloring Book

Let’s face it – the job can be stressful. Even if your colleague loves her job, the daily grind can get a bit overwhelming at times.

You can give her a stress-reducing gift that’s sure to help her relax with an adult coloring book. While not necessarily work-friendly, this gift is one that your coworker will surely enjoy at home after a tough day at work.

If you decide an adult coloring book is a perfect gift, don’t forget to include a pack of colored pencils or markers to go with it.

6. Have Wheels, Will Gift

If your coworker is into cars, then few things will make them happier than the opportunity to tinker in their garage with new car parts. With everything from garish automotive bling through to blow off valves and other turbo accessories available online, you’re only a couple of easy clicks away from added a few thousand additional revs to your colleague’s festive season.

As the holiday season draws near this year, it’s normal to start worrying about the office secret Santa gift exchange. This year, however, put that worry aside and get a head start on the gift-buying task with the great suggestions listed above. With a gift idea for every budget and personality, this year’s secret Santa will be easier than ever.

Say Cheese – 4 Secrets to Getting Back Your Confident Smile

May 15, 2019 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

It’s true that money can’t buy happiness, but as the saying goes, I’d rather cry in a Lamborghini than on a bike. Likewise, looking good doesn’t automatically make you a strong confident person, but it certainly helps. Read on to discover five ways to bring back that fearless spirit you had as a child.

Say cheese.

The easiest way to get your smile back is to fake it. Pretending you’re happy tricks your brain into releasing dopamine and other positivity chemicals so you can literally fake it ‘til you make it. If you’re worried about your chompers, invest in some teeth whitening or get them straightened. If you’re happy with your smile how it is, then more power to you but if you need a little extra help, don’t let guilt or fear hold you back from what’s essentially a fairly cheap and relatively noninvasive way of boosting your self-esteem.

Flash some cash.

Remember how money can’t buy happiness? Don’t go out and throw money at unnecessary items that are way out of your budget, but if you’ve got the cash to spare and you’ve really been wanting that new outfit or to get your hair or nails done, then go for it. This comes back to that wonderful little neurochemical dopamine, which, surprise, is also released when you shop or pamper yourself. Just make sure to set a limit and stick to it or your pleasurable treat could turn into a spiral of debt.

Don’t diet.

We were once told a diet has its name because it makes you want to die and while that may be a bit of an exaggeration, dieting certainly isn’t fun or even healthy in most cases. Ensure that you’re getting your servings of fruit, vegetables and required vitamins then allow yourself freedom with the rest of what you eat during the day. Don’t binge because this will just make you feel worse both physically and mentally, but if you maintain balance in what nourishment you give your body, your confidence will receive an automatic boost since you’ll feel better emotionally when your body is well taken care of.

If you don’t love it, lose it.

Likewise, although you’ll probably groan at this one, you should work out. If you don’t already, start, and if you do, lift your game. Sure everyone tells you to exercise, and with good reason (our good old buddy dopamine) but what they don’t tell you when it comes to staying motivated, is that if you don’t enjoy the way you work out, you’re not going to stick to your plan. This is true no matter how many happy chemicals get released so make sure you find a way to exercise that you’re actually keen to do. If the gym isn’t really your thing, join a dance studio or make a point of taking the dog for a run each morning. Remember, it doesn’t matter how you do it, just as long as you do.

Confidence isn’t some magical unachievable ideal, but it is something you need to work towards having and keeping. If you look good and feel good physically, then you’re going to feel good mentally and emotionally. This boosts your confidence, which eventually leads to a self-perpetuating cycle of kicking goals and staying positive. Remember that no one feels 100% all the time. Do what’s best for you and the rest will fall into place.

Whiter and Brighter – 6 Great Reasons to Consider Dental Veneers

May 15, 2019 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

Dental veneers also referred to as porcelain veneers, are thin shells of tooth-colored porcelain or composite material that is physically bonded to and covers a tooth’s enamel surface. Veneers offer a more permanent solution to many common dental issues, which is why they are one of the most popular options among patients.

You may want to consider getting dental veneers if you experience tooth issues that make you hide your smile or feel self-conscious around other people. Here are several reasons to consider getting dental veneers:

1. Teeth Whitening

There is a plethora of teeth whitening products on the market today. Some work better than others, but ultimately, these products are a short-term solution to a not-so-pearly-white smile. Dental veneers, on the other hand, offer a more permanent fix for stained, yellowed, and discolored teeth that don’t respond to traditional whitening techniques. They can be applied to one or all your teeth. If your veneers only cover one or two teeth, your dentist will make sure they match your natural teeth completely. If your veneers are covering all your teeth, you’ll be able to pick how bright and white they will be.

2. Change the Shape of Your Teeth

Because dental veneers are thin shells that cover your existing teeth, they can be molded into any shape or size necessary. This means if you have oddly-shaped or worn teeth, veneers can correct these issues for an aesthetically-pleasing result.

3. Veneers Address Single or Multiple Tooth Issues

Dental veneers are used to correct individual teeth. Each problematic tooth is covered individually, which means you can have as little as one tooth or as many as all your teeth fixed with dental veneers. Veneers are a great option for those who have issues with multiple teeth.

4. Long-Term Beauty

Dental veneers are one of the longest-lasting dental fixes available. When cared for correctly, they can last as many as 20 years. If you get dental veneers, you’ll need to practice good dental hygiene at home and keep regular cleaning and exam appointments with your dentist. You will want to stay away from eating anything hard or overly sticky to avoid damaging the thin coating.

5. Veneers Offer a Beautiful Smile

When it comes to creating a normal-looking smile, veneers are the best way to get the beautiful smile you’re looking for. Many people turn to veneers when traditional whitening methods fail to provide the results they desire. For cracked, chipped, oddly-shaped, and discolored teeth, veneers are the ideal option.

6. Natural Tooth Enhancement

Your dentist will ultimately decide if your tooth issues warrant veneers, but your candidacy relies on how healthy your natural teeth are beforehand. If you don’t have any gum disease, decay, or any other underlying issues, you may be a good candidate. Be warned, however, that if you already have an attractive smile that simply needs a little whitening, your dentist may try to steer you away from dental veneers because their application requires permanent alteration of your natural teeth. It’s important to educate yourself and listen to your dentist before deciding on dental veneers as a fix for your dental problems.

Dental veneers are a popular option among dental patients as they provide a more permanent solution to several tooth issues. From damaged teeth to teeth that aren’t as white as they could be, dental veneers are a good choice. If you think veneers might restore your smile and build your self-confidence, speak with your dentist to find out if they’re the right option for you.

You’re Back, Baby – 4 Tips to Getting Your Pre-Baby Body Back Post-Partum

May 15, 2019 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

You don’t have to resign yourself to gazing longingly at your pre-pregnancy jeans, remembering the good times when you could wear them comfortably—you can absolutely get that pre-baby body back! It may look and function a little differently this time around, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go after it. Give yourself room to be “new and improved,” and check out these 4 tips to help you on your way back to your pre-baby body.

1. Exercise

Exercise is key after having a baby (once approved by your doctor). It is essential as much for your mind as for your body. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which boost your mood and help to ward off post-partum depression while you get yourself back in shape. If you aren’t sure where to start with exercise, or what your body can handle, don’t be afraid to sign up for some personal training sessions with a professional who specializes in post-pregnancy training and can help you find the appropriate routine. You can also look for “Mommy and Me” fitness groups in your area that incorporate baby into your exercise routine.

2. Self-Care

Exercise forms part of the broader concept of self-care. It is easy to forget about yourself, and focus solely on the needs of your new baby and your family. If you want to return to that pre-baby body, you need to make sure that your mind is in the right place so that you can make good decisions about food, exercise, and sleep. If you didn’t practice self-care before, here are some ideas for how to do so now. Many gyms will help with your self- care by watching your child for 2 hours when they are as little as 3 months old.

3. Nutrition

Most pregnant women are aware of what foods are off-limits while they are pregnant, but few pay the same attention to their diet once the baby is born. The most important thing you can do to get your pre-baby body back is to pay attention to what you eat. Your nutritional intake can affect not only your body but also your mental health and your sleep. There is no doubt you will be pressed for time and distracted, so keep a few different healthy snacks on hand and in the diaper bag for those hungry moments when you don’t have time to make a meal. If you divide your snacks up into portions in advance, you won’t have to worry about overeating.

4. Sleep

There is no way around it, sleep is incredibly challenging during your baby’s first year. That being said, getting adequate sleep is a huge factor in weight loss. When you don’t sleep, your body craves sugar and carbohydrates and tells you it is too tired to exercise. Your metabolism also becomes groggy and does not process food the way it usually would, causing it to allow fat to hang around in your body longer than it normally would. Combat these adverse side effects by taking every opportunity to sleep. When baby naps, put aside that desire to do something “productive” and grab some precious shut-eye.

You do not need to initiate yourself into the world of motherhood by purchasing a new, larger wardrobe. You can get your pre-baby body back! Don’t be afraid to invest in the health of your own body through a little self-care and exercise. Set yourself up for nutritional success by keeping healthy snacks on hand, and take advantage of every opportunity you can to get some sleep.

Rapid Recovery – 5 Ways to Speed Up Your Recovery From Injury

May 15, 2019 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

Injuries have a funny way of striking right when you’re in your prime. Your heart breaks, not so much from the pain but from the realization of what lies ahead: a long road to recovery along which much of the progress you’ve made towards your fitness goals will be lost.

While your body does need time to heal, it’s not all bad news. There are some key things you can do to get yourself back up and running in record time. Read on to discover the five essentials to rapid injury recovery:

1. Bring the Professionals to You

It’s not until you have an injury that you realize just how much strain everyday tasks can place on the affected joint, muscle or bone. Even the seemingly simple process of getting into your car or taking public transport can become a mission that puts you at risk of re-injuring yourself. The best way to save yourself this drama is to sign up for mobile physiotherapy. You’ll get a trained therapist delivered to your door along with all the necessary equipment to take care of your rehabilitation safely at home.

2. Get Plenty of Sleep

While physiotherapy is key to rapid recovery, if you’re not getting adequate rest, you’ll be hampering your progress. It can be hard to sleep when you’re going through the pain and discomfort of healing an injury. However, finding a way to do so is vital as it’s when your body is at rest that it does the bulk of its healing. Talk to your doctor and physiotherapist about pain management and bed set-up options that will optimize your chances of getting quality sleep consistently throughout your recovery period.

3. Stay off the Booze

It’s easy to get a bit down in the dumps when your life has been put on hold by an injury. However, the last thing you want to do is drown your sorrows in a beer (or seven). It may help your mood in the moment, but alcohol can be problematic during the healing phase in a number of different ways. Putting aside the potential for re-injuring yourself (or scoring a brand new injury) if you get legitimately drunk and your coordination goes out the window, there’s also the simple fact that alcohol increases inflammation in the body.

4. Cut Back on Sugar and Caffeine

While sugar and caffeine won’t have you stumbling around like alcohol will, they too are known to create inflammation in the body while interfering with sleep quality. In everyday life, most of us are pretty well equipped to deal with a few extra bursts of inflammation here and there. However, when you’re recovering from an injury, your body’s resources are already heavily taxed.Therefore, anything you can do to take the pressure off will allow for the full force of your natural healing capabilities to be directed towards your injury.

5. Stay active

The way you do this depends on the nature of your injury. However, it is vital for both your physical and mental health to stay as active as you safely can during recovery. If you create a workout plan with your physiotherapist and stick to it, you’ll keep your active habits and healthy mindset going throughout your recovery and will be ready to hit the ground running as soon as you are able.

Sustaining an injury can feel like a monumental setback. However, if you enlist the help of medical professionals, ensure you get plenty of rest, cut back on inflammatory substances and stay (safely) active, you’ll be back on track in no time.