January is my birthday month, this month really flew by, and we had a snowstorm my birthday weekend. I believe, seven years ago we actually had a blizzard on my Birthday. I'm truly thankful that I was able to enjoy my special day.  

5 Things I’m Proud of in January

Shopping

I didn't go too crazy this month with shopping, I did purchase a few things for my birthday.

Garden

I started winter sowing, and I'm really excited about the process this year.

Slept-In

I slept in whenever I could, it's such a nice reward to be able to sleep in as a parent. It really feels nice.

Plants

In November I pretty much started my plan journey over. I am proud of myself for paying extra attention to my little plant babies and also learning about ways to ensure that they thrive. I added three new plants to the family which I'm really excited about.

Brunch

I attended brunch my birthday weekend and had the most amazing experience. It was nice to get out of the house.

Do you have anything that you’re proud of?

 

This post is super late. However, I really enjoy sharing what I’m proud of myself for, it’s so easy in life to neglect the small wins in life. However, it’s really the small wins that contribute to huge accomplishments. Below, I’m sharing 5 Things I’m proud of in January. 

5 Things I’m Proud of January 

I know we’re well into July however, I wanted to share a few things that I’m Proud of in July. Though, I don’t do this often. I feel that it’s so important to celebrate the small wins. Below, I’m sharing a few things that I’m proud from July.

5 Things I’m Proud of in July 

Garden

Last year was actually my worse year for my garden. I just didn’t have the time. I didn’t make the time. I don’t even remember harvesting anything in July. Let alone averaging a weekly harvest. This year, however, I took time out for my garden, it has been such a rewarding experience.

Took Time off When Needed

I’ve been working a lot. It’s been really nice to take time off when needed.

Consistently Journaled

If you’ve been following me for a while. You know that I love to journal. It’s something that’s so therapeutic about journaling. I’m so happy that I took the time out daily to the journal.

Cooked

Growing up, my mom typically did not cook often during the summer months. We didn’t have central air. Therefore, our home was pretty warm during the summer. I 100% can totally relate to my mom. I’m proud of myself for cooking. It’s something that I actually enjoy doing and it really wasn’t a hassle. Plus, Dream Dinners really made the process a lot easier for me.

Grilled Often

One of the things that I really wanted to take advanced off during the summer months is utilizing our grill. A lot of our meals were prepared on the grill which my family loved.


Do you have anything that you’re proud of?

I wish I could say that doing a 5k was on my bucket list or even things I wanted to do prior to turning a milestone age and honestly it wasn’t. You see, I actually don’t enjoy running. Walking yes. But running, it’s not something that I enjoy. If you’ve been following my blog for a while now. You’re aware of my healthy lifestyle change two years ago, and how my daily goal is to walk 10k steps a day. But running a 5k wasn’t something I ever thought about doing. I was invited to attend. To be honest, I wasn't looking forward to the race. I had no idea of what the expectations would be and of course I went into panic mode.
I first reached what the heck a 5k race is. I assumed that I would have to run 5 miles. However, 5k actually stands for 5 kilometers which are about 3k miles. It was a sigh of relief because I typically walk my 10k steps consecutively which is about 5 miles. Knowing this, put me at ease, I also learned during this time that I didn’t have to run the entire time. I could actually go at my own pace.

The Morning of the race. I was nervous and excited. I drove about 45 minutes to the race location. Parked my car and headed to the town green. Thousands of people were participating in the race from babies with their parents to women of a certain age. It was a truly inspiring event and I honestly wished that I did it sooner.

Have you participated in any races before? 

Thank you Vantis Life Insurance for sponsoring this post. Vantis Life Insurance makes it fun and easy to get life insurance and protect your family.


Adulting is hard. I get it! However, I know how it feels to be perplexed about the whole entire process of setting up life insurance. I always hear that purchasing Life Insurance can be really intimidating and complicated. I'm here to tell you it's not! Vantis Life really makes the entire process super easy to understand and buy. I was in your shoes, a young mom, and I really didn't know where to start. My employer offered life insurance however when I left the company. My life insurance left as well. When that happened, I put off the idea of looking into life insurance. I thought the process was going to be hard. My prior employer did all of the work for me. However, as a parent, it started to bother me, and all of the "what if's". Trust me, no one wants to think about death. But what really scares me the most as a parent and wife, knowing that my son and spouse would not be able to maintain the same lifestyle in the event of an untimely passing. Below, I'm sharing tips and reasons why you should consider life insurance.

Tips

Ask Questions
It’s so important to ask questions and feel comfortable with the topic. They’re there to help you and do what’s best for your interest. Remember the worse question is the one that’s not asked. Vantis Life specialists can answer any questions you may have about the entire process. I've learned that when you ask the requestions that are really hindering you from purchasing life insurance. It really makes starting the process so much easier and really gives your piece of mind.

Schedule an Appointment
You can easily schedule an over the phone appointment again to get some of your questions answered. I would highly suggest having a running list on your phone. If you’re a lister. Have your pen and pad ready to house all of the amazing questions to ask. I love that with Vantis Life you can call or schedule an appointment. What I love about scheduling an appointment is that it really gives you time to process your thoughts and speak with someone at your convenience.

I'm often asked about my daily/weekly routines, and honestly. These routines are a total lifesaver for me. I spend less time, on unnecessary stuff, and I'm able to spend more time doing the stuff in which I love. Below I'm sharing 10 Things to do every Sunday for a productive week. I can imagine that everyone's schedule is different, you may not be available on Sunday. However, this is more so as a foundation to create a weekly routine, no matter which day it's on.


Take your clothes out for the week
This is something that I've been doing since my son was in preschool. Not only do I take out his clothes. I take out my clothes for the week as well. I'll typically have several outfit looks put together just in case I need to leave on a whim. I'm not spending hours putting looks together.

Journal 
I've incorporated journaling into my daily routines, however, if you can't journal on a daily basis. I would at least suggest journaling every Sunday to decompress and get your thoughts out from the prior week. There are so many writing prompts for journaling. Just do a quick Google search to get inspired. You don't need a fancy journal. I just use the one that I purchased from Target.

Go Grocery Shopping
Based on my menu plan, it makes it a lot easier for me to go grocery shopping. I know what I need for the week, and I'm able to get my home fully stocked, especially since winter is fast approaching, and snow days will be following closely after. Since I tend to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, I tend to go to the grocery once a week. However, do what works for your family, maybe based on your needs you only need to go to the grocery store once or twice a month. Do what works best for you and your family.

Meal plan for the week
If you've been following me for a while, you know that I meal plan weekly, for myself, and family. It takes a ton out of the stress of "what's for dinner" everyone already knows what for dinner. I don't have to run to the store to pick up items, and a lot of times. I can place the items in the crockpot, and it's done prior to everyone returning home for the day.

Wash clothing
Though I typically try to was load clothes at least every other day. I try my best to make sure that all of the clothing in our home is washed by Sunday. It just makes for a better transition into the new week, especially with having children who play sports.

Clean your home
I'm not sure if I'm the only person, but I can not function properly if my home is dirty. Let not forget about taking twice as long to look for something due to it not being properly placed in the correct destination, and/or it's covered over a pile. Take a moment to clean your home.

Review Your Planner and/or Schedule
I know this may sound simple. But it's super easy to add stuff to your planner, and/or phone, and totally forget about it. Trust me, get into the routine of checking all of your planners/calendars on Sunday in order to properly prepare for the week ahead.

Schedule/plan your Week Out
As the saying goes, a goal without a plan is just a wish. Plan your week out, create goals for yourself. This really does cut back on forgetting to do stuff. Do you need a refill on your prescription, do you have to return a call or follow up on email. This is the perfect time to plan out your week.

• Monday: Schedule Dentist Appointment 
• Tuesday: Follow up on Ambers Email
• Wednesday: Looking into Doctoral Degree Programs
• Thursday: See about any new job opening
• Friday: Schedule Lunch date with Maria

Create a To-Do List
I've learned that I'm highly productive during the week when I create a to-do list on Monday. You can easily section the list down to items that need to be completed by a certain day of the week of prioritizing your list in any way that you see fit. This really cuts out constantly thinking on Monday or even trying to remember everything that needs to get done. You can also always add to your list.


Create an At-Home Spa Day
I know this might sound silly, however for me personally, it's so nice to start of my ween rejuvenated from just simply having an at-home spa day. This honestly doesn't have to take much, and you can do what works best for you.

Do you have any Sunday routines? 

Pin for Later

Pin for later 

It's that time of year again where I will be sharing 18 things that I would like to change for 2018. From the items that I want to stop purchasing to the simple changes that I would like to start making. This is my second year sharing this list on the blog, you can read all about the 2017 changes that I made here.

18 Things that I want to Start, Stop and Splurge On

1. Treat myself- Not sure why it's so hard for me to treat myself. I would like to start doing that on a more regular basis. I say no to myself way too much and I have to learn how to create a balance.
2. Read More- I did so poorly with reading this year. I have to learn how to make time for it each day.
3. YouTube- I would like to be more consistent with YouTube. Not sure what happened towards the middle of the year.
4. Date Myself- I have to learn how to date myself more and take myself out.
5. Nails Done- I learned that this year that I really love having and keeping my nails painted. Something about it just makes me feel good about myself. I have to learn how to incorporate this more.
6. Stationary- I'm open to the opportunity to collaborate with brands. However, I have way too much stationary products that I've purchased on my own.
7. Tablescape- This year we purchased a dining room table. I'm totally obsessed with creating tablescapes. This is something that I love so I have to make time for it.
8. Decor- I have a lot of home decor that I rarely get to play around with. I want to spend more time making sure that I'm in love with my home.
9. Clothing- I only want to purchase clothing that I'm in love with. I just don't want to purchase just because it's a great price.
10. Minimalist- I want to continue to purchase what I need and all areas of my life.
11. Capsule Wardrobe- I want to create a capsule wardrobe and take you guys on the experience of how I put together the outfits.
12. Quality- I want to invest in a couple of high-end pieces for my wardrobe
13. Hobby- I have so many hobbies that I love. Would love to take a couple of classes on them.
14. DSLR- Learn how to shoot in manual mode
15. Family Game Night- We need more of these
16. Stop buying just to buy!
17. Planner- Spend more time using my planner
18. Planner Supplies- Stop buying planner supplies just to buy them.

What are some of your 2018 Goals? 

The Where Investors Belong survey was conducted by market research firm Kelton Global in 2016. It polled 1,000 Vanguard clients and compared them with 1,000 clients of other investment firms. All differences between Vanguard clients and clients of other investment firms are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level. The parental stat refers to clients with children of any age who provided the number of hours per week they typically spend with their children or who, compared to other people they may know, believe to be more involved in their child’s life. . The experiences of these Vanguard clients may not be representative of the experience of other Vanguard clients and aren’t a guarantee of future investment performance or success.

Today I will be sharing a little behind the scenes of 4 Ways that I spend my day as a long-term investor. Because long-term investors don’t live to invest, they invest to live.

Spa Day

Nothing is more relaxing than spending your day at the spa. Picture walking in a spa after a long week with fresh herbal tea brewing, four different options to the jetted Jacuzzi tub of your dreams with four different temps. This is my reality.

Family Time

As a Mom, my best moments are spent with my family. I love taking my son to sporting events and pretty much anything that has to do with sports. It typically the highlight of our fall and it makes for the perfect family memories. Screaming for our favorite team especially when they make a touchdown or interception. These are memories that I will never forget and are possible because I'm not just living to invest. Did you know that

Vanguard clients spend 6 more hours per week, on average, with their kids compared with clients of other investment firms?  

Date Night Experience 

Making time for date night is a must-have for any couple. I love that when we are our together we can fully focus on each other, enjoy the moment, and live in the moment. I love that I don't have to sacrifice time with my spouse. It's so easy to have to sacrifice now when we make the wrong choices. I love that I live such a fuller life and I'm able to spend quality time with my spouse where ever whenever.
Vanguard clients are 14% more likely to make time for date night compared with clients of other investment firms.  

Hobby

One of my favorite hobbies is traveling. I love the people, food, culture. From searching for the ideal location that I want to travel to. To actually make a choice and booking my trip. Nothing is more rewarding than hopping on that plane when it's freezing in your state and landing and not needing a coat. The gratification that comes from that experience is life-changing.

Vanguard clients are 15% more likely to explore mutual hobbies with their partner compared with clients of other investment firms.




Are you living a fuller life today? 

I'm not sure where this year is going and I can't believe I'm writing a post about “8 Things on My Winter To-Do List. I had so much fun writing this post last year. That I thought it would be pretty cool to write this list again this year.
This year I thrived in some areas with self-care. You can read all about my travel adventures here, However, I noticed that when it comes to daily or weekly self-care I really struggle. I really don't have any excuses. My children are all pretty much teens. So I do have some time to myself. However, I still struggle with self-care. Maybe it's the guilt of being an entrepreneur where I feel that I should always be doing something or working on something. Not sure...

Winter Photo Shoot

I'm always the one behind the camera and not in front of it. I really do not have any excuse to why this is always the case especially with a DSLR camera, tripod, and remote. I really have to step out of the box and really make this into a reality. I would love to have a really nice photo shoot with tons of cute photos. 

I have the perfect Valentines Day DIY setup idea. I was thinking about using a gold sheer curtains as the backdrop and me holding a dozen balloons with confetti falling from the sky. How cute right?!

The Big Tree

Last year I had this on my list to visit Rockafeller Center to see the Christmas tree and I never did. Not sure why. I would love to visit though. Even though I don't like being outside in the cold. I think this would be a really nice experience in one of my favorite cities.

Sports

I still haven't been to a professional football or basketball game. We do not have any professional teams in my state if I could use that as an excuse. However, it would be nice to watch a game on a whim.

Ice, Ice Baby

OK, so I'm not about to sing the whole song. However, I do have the tunes playing in my head. Ha! We have an ice-skating rink that I think would be pretty cool to go and visit. I can skate, a little. So I'm not sure how well I'll do on the ice in the cold. But it looks like fun.

Bake

I want to bake, spend an entire day baking or at least the early parts of the morning. Trying all of the recipes that I've wanted to try for the longest. I would love to make homemade caramels and truffles. I would also like to include a couple of healthy treats as well.

Create

I purchased my silhouette machine two years ago and I feel as if I never really don't make time to create. It would be really nice to sit and create all of the things that I pinned on Pinterest or at least some of them.

Read

Not sure what has been going on with me this year. However, I never really take out the time to read. I was doing so good with this, and of course, I started off the year strong. However, I really struggle with taking the time to read and just unwinding. I would like to complete at least one book this winter.

Staycation

This is so long overdue. I would love to escape and go to a beautiful place this winter. In or out of state. We have so many beautiful places in Connecticut and the surrounding area that I would like to take full advantage of visiting.

Do you have a winter “To-Do List”?

Since the day Michael attended his first day of school I prided myself on making sure that he was at school each and every day. For some reason I've always been programmed that allowing Michael to take a day off from school equated to me being a bad mother.

I remember days that Michael didn't feel like going to school and I always thought of it as if some people don't feel like going to work. However, it's something that you have to do.

Growing up, I really didn't have the best structure when it came to going to school. I attended four elementary schools because we moved often. My mother had three children so I know the days we went to school was like a mini break for her. Which I can totally understand as a parent.

When I had Michael I knew that I wanted different for him. I didn't want him to feel that it was okay to not go to school whenever you pleased. I wanted to keep him at the same school district and I wanted him to have a strong educational foundation.

However, I was speaking with a friend and she mentioned how she allowed her children the take a day off from school when they needed it and she stated that they did fine and never abused the situation. She mentioned that sometimes you just need a break. Which I agree with from a different perspective.

I love the idea of change. However, I also agree with "if it's not broken don't try to fix it". which leaves me pondering. So I thought that this would be a great topic to bring to the blog with the new start of the school year and all. Do you allow your children to take a day off from school throughout the school year? Did your parents allow for you to take the day off. 

Today is the first day of winter?! Where did time go? Just like I did for this past fall. I'm sharing my plans for this winter.

Create

I am a crafty person by nature. I am the middle child and growing up with two televisions with cable in them. One being the one in my parent's room and the other being in the den.

it was my time to watch what I want. I would turn the TV onto Martha, the Food Network, and HGTV (I think it was around back in the day) I really enjoy creating. I mean creating anything that's why I started this blog. Looking forward to just creating more and actually making all of the items I “Pin”.

It's been a while since I've done a post like this. I thought it would be cool to share a few of my favorite things/experiences.

Drinks

Experiences

Favorite Holidays

Favorite Foods

Favorite Perfumes

Favorite books

Favorite Electronics 

Favorite Cosmetic Brand

Favorite Place to Travel 

Favorite social media sites

I would love to learn more about you, please feel free to share in the comment section a few of your favorite things. 

I just wanted to take a moment to Thank Everyone for your continued support with SimplyTasheena.com (formally known as Our Delightful Home). I do not take the time you spend reading my blog for granted. Wishing you the BEST Thanksgiving ever!

Before we start, I am very aware that the holidays are NOT all about receiving gifts. (Get it? Got it? Were Good!) From being a single mom to a one income household. I know this scenario far too well. For me, it was primarily educating myself on financial literacy. I didn’t see how I could afford to save when I was living beyond paycheck to paycheck. When I did have an extra $1 or $5 the last thing I was thinking about was saving it. I felt that I worked hard and deserved X. Does any of that sound familiar? I try my best to use this platform to help all people any way I can with financial literacy. I have shared several times on the blog ways I save money on everyday expenses. I thought it would appropriate to share what I’ve done in the past that has worked for my family. I remember Christmas eve being at Target swiping my credit card and it declined. I remember waiting for my billing cycle to close to give me a little more time to come up with the money to pay for the items. Sharing tips below that I’ve used and applied and some I still apply daily.

The List

One of the first things that you should do is create a list with three columns in one column list the people that you will buy for. In the second column the gift idea for that person. In the third column the price of the gift or how much it will cost to create the gift if it’s homemade.

Sell what you don’t need

I am at a point in my life where less is more. I am getting rid of a lot of STUFF and I’m not just buying to buy. Look around your home. Items you no longer want/need and list it on Postmark. Postmark now accepts men and children’s clothing as well. This is one of the first steps that you should take. Christmas is currently a little over a month away. You could also the Facebook Marketplace or groups (not sure what it’s called) I’ve never used it before. However, it might be a great option for you.

Consign

If Poshmark is not your jam try bringing your gently used items to your local consignment shop. Most consignment shops either pay you out or you will have to wait for your items to sell.

Sites I Love/Used to sell items

• Postmark
• eBay
• Craigslist

Rewards Programs

I am a huge advocate for the programs below. I use them and love them. You can now use eBates in-store at select stores. Ibotta is great as well for in-store purchases.

Ebates

Percentage off of online and in-store purchases (payout quarterly) Last year I purchased a pair of Ugg for my daughter. I visited two of my favorites sites and they pretty much were the same price. However, the percentage of the cash back was different. Which one fo you think I went with?

Ibotta

In-store purchases (available for most stores) I mostly use it for Groceries, Target, Walmart (even Sally’s) You have to reach I believe $20 to cash out.

Newsletters

I sign up for all of my favorite store newsletters and mailings. For example, During this time you will start to receive free offers at stores such as Victoria Secret and Bath & Body Shop. I also receive better offers in the mail than offered in store and by email.

Free Samples

I turn free samples to mini gifts that are perfect for teachers and neighbors. For example, If I receive a free sample of coffee. I'll purchase a mug from the Dollar Tree and turn it to a super cute gift.

Dollar Tree

Don’t sleep on the Dollar Tree. During the summer time, they had really cute gifts for kids. I also stop at varies Dollar Tree’s because they do not all carry the same items. Watch a few Dollar Tree haul videos to see what's possibly out there.

Make It

I have a silhouette machine and I love creating personalized gifts. I made a few here. You can purchase a t-shirt from the Dollar Tree and decorate it to your liking. Walmart is also a great option for sweatshirts as well. Don’t forget to go on Pinterest for DIY holiday gift inspiration.

Homemade gifts

If you enjoy baking or crafting this be the perfect option for you. You can easily create edible gifts for your friends that have sweet tooth.

Coupons

Don’t have a coupon? Google it while online shopping or in-store. Most stores will accept valid coupons on your phone.