Lilac City Momma

Lynn

Sprinkle Some Christmas Love Your Own Way

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There is no shortage of glitter, tinsel and sparkling items during the festive period but for some people, some of the shine and sparkle has gone out of Christmas. With each passing year, it feels as though commercialisation squeezes more of the goodness out of this time of year and most parents will agree that Christmas today is not like it was when we were young.

This isn’t always a bad thing. It should be said that there are many ways that a modern Christmas is fantastic but if you like the idea of Christmas being a wonderous and magical time, it is fair to say that times have changed, and people have moved on.

If you were to sit back and remember the Christmases you loved as a child, many memories will spring to mind. There will be some presents that stick in your mind but for many people, most of the festive memories are based on the times spent with others.

Find events that bring your loved ones together this Christmas

The Christmas Day meal is a fantastic example of an event that brings people together. The meal is important, but the most essential element comes with bringing people together and ensuring that there is a reason for people to come together. Once that is in place, the good times flow naturally, and this means parents should be looking for ways to create moments that draw the whole family together.

In the present day, receiving a letter is likely to be an event that makes the whole family stop and take notice. We live in a digital age and it may be that the only things coming through your door are bills and junk messages. Therefore, when something important comes from the door, people will take notice and what could be more exciting than a personalised letter from Santa Claus?

Engage and encourage your kids in the most appropriate manner

If you are looking to engage your kids in an effective and appropriate manner, personalised letters from Santa Claus is likely to be a brilliant way of doing so. Creating the chance to gather together to read the letter is the start of the process but the real magic comes with the personalised nature of the letter.

With Lapland Mailroom, there is a chance to customise the letter to include several key details about the child who receives the letter. There is a chance for parents to acknowledge great behaviour in the past year and to inspire and influence children to do more in the year that lies ahead. Sometimes children don’t always listen to what their parents say but when the encouragement and motivation are being provided by Santa Claus, you can guarantee that the youngster will be doubly motivated to live up to the promise and hopes contained within the letter.

Create a sense of wonder this Christmas season

Even though a modern-day Christmas is far removed from the festive seasons you enjoyed as a child, you don’t have to give up on your hopes of your children enjoying the same sort of experience. It is possible for parents to ensure their kids’ experience and love Christmas traditions from a bygone era and time, and a personalised letter from Santa can make all the difference.

If you have been worried about the pessimism and cynicism surrounding the festive period these days, you don’t have to sit back and accept it. There are ways that you can help to create the magic and love of the year that you are familiar with and want youngsters to experience today. It is only natural that many people hold a pessimistic view of Christmas and carry a cynical view on the commercialisation of the season but by tapping into the magic of the season, you can make a Christmas that your kids love.

It has never been easier to create a genuinely personalised letter from Santa that your kid will instantly recognise as being true to their life. No matter the message you want to spread, this gift delights the recipient and other family members who enjoy the magic of the season coming alive once more.

If you’re looking to sprinkle some Christmas love on to the people you care about, a personalised letter from Santa Claus, via Lapland Mailroom, may be exactly what you need.

 

The Best Places to Visit in Georgia

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Whether you want to enjoy the busy city life or rest in the serenity of nature, Georgia can offer you both. While the majestic mountains and the sandy coastline set the beautiful outline of the country, the urban nature of the country will bring all the facilities to you. Besides natural beauty and modern amenities, the historic importance of the country is something that attracts tourists throughout the year. Try to book the Georgia tour package to get amazing deals. So, if you are planning for a vacation in Georgia, here are the places which must be on the top of your bucket list. Read on to know more

1. Tallulah Gorge

This amazing gorge is 1000 feet deep and it is also 2 miles long. Visiting Tallulah Gorge can be an exciting experience as there is 2700 acre Georgia State Park is located near the gorge. The breathtaking beauty of the place is remarkable as there are six waterfalls to visit. If you want to hike, here you can get the best experience. For the bikers, this is the best ground to roam around. For hiking and biking, you will need special permission.

2. Kazbegi

Don’t you have much time to explore the scenic beauty and the city of Georgia? Then, you can go to Kazbegi which is a famous high altitude retreat for the tourists and not very far from the city. Once you are here, you will be mesmerized by the snow-capped Great Caucasus Range that surrounds Kazbegi. Don’t forget to visit the Gergeti Trinity Church here that is 2000 m above sea level. You can also go hiking to experience the beauty of the mountains and glaciers at the Russian border.

3. Tbilisi

This is the town of Georgia where the traditional and old Georgia has beautifully amalgamated with the modern one. Located on the bank of Mtkvari River, this town has its historical importance. In the heart, there is old Tbilisi where you can visit the age-old Byzantine churches, traditional architecture of houses, timber balconies and so on.

4. Lullwater Park

Though the park is located in the middle of the city, you can enjoy complete serenity over there. The sound you can hear is only the rustling of trees and the blowing of the wind through the leaves. This nature park has everything in it. From the hiking trails to the hills, the open fields and the running water, the fish ponds and the bright sun have made the place perfect for spending a day and having a picnic.

5. Vardzia

If you are a history buff, Georgia won’t disappoint you at all. Being located at the gateway between Asia and Europe, Georgia has seen lots of invasions. To protect the country from the Mongols, Vardzia was built. It was a ‘cave village’ with 6000 separate grotto apartments, a church, irrigation system and special room for the queen. The stone structure has been destroyed by an earthquake. Still, visitors can see the ruins and several stone architectures and praise it.

So, these are only a few places in Georgia that will appeal to your traveler’s mind. Pack your bag now and have a great holiday in Georgia.

Prom Look Inspiration from the Most Iconic TV Shows and Movies in History

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For decades, television and film have been inspiring prom looks in young women around the world. Whether your style is classic or alternative, whether you’re looking for petite ensembles or plus size prom dresses, there’s no inspiration greater than the TV shows and movies that are known for some of the best and most unique looks in history.

I’m JJ’s House designer, Jessica, and my specialty is special occasion wear. If you’re in need of some prom dress inspiration, I’ve got you covered. I’m here to walk you through some of the greatest prom moments in television and film history so you can find a dress that makes you feel like a superstar.

80’s and 90’s Inspiration

Maybe you’re an old soul who’s really into 80’s and 90’s pop culture, or maybe your prom has a throwback theme. Whatever the case, there are some really unique prom looks from the TV shows and movies of yesteryear.

One of the most iconic dresses in 80’s film history comes from Pretty in Pink. The main character in the movie goes to prom in a pink polka dot and lace dress with a very unique cut. Off-the-shoulder puffy sleeves are paired with a lace halter-style neck and the whole thing is fitted but loose at the same time. It’s definitely a show-stopper.

The 1984 movie, Footloose, is full of inspiration, but one of the best in the prom scene is a loosely-fitted white dress with off-the-shoulder ruffles.

The prom episode of the hit 90’s TV show, Beverly Hills 90210, features a sexy off-the-shoulder black lace mermaid dress that will never go out of style.

Alternately, if you’re looking for a more casual, country-style dress, grab the look from Saved by the Bell and wear a fitted denim dress with black fringe.

The Current Trends

Some of today’s most popular shows and films have handed us glamorous, elegant and unique prom dresses to draw inspiration from. Whether you’re looking for something classic and chic or bold and adventurous, there’s a look for you on the big screen.

If you’re looking for a bold number that will keep all eyes on you, check out the prom look from Gossip Girl. The bold black gown with large gold print can’t be missed. Another elegant and bold number comes from Vampire Diaries. The red sleeveless ball gown is a timeless hit.

The OC featured two unique floral-inspired prom dresses that were a bit simpler than the gowns from Gossip Girl and Vampire Diaries. One dress was fitted with floral print, while another was loose and ruffly with large flowers. She’s the Man featured another excellent chic piece with a fitted mint green satin gown with thin straps.

Whether you draw inspiration from the pink polka dots and lace in Pretty in Pink or the simple mint green gown from She’s the Man, you can make a grand entrance and be the belle of the ball in one of these head-turning TV- and movie-inspired pieces.

Why More Mom’s Should Consider Becoming Consultants

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Mothers today wear many hats; a chef, doctor, maid, negotiator, custodian, and many more. As a working mom, many hate the idea of leaving their little one in the care of someone else, but it has to be done at times. This is one of the many great reasons why moms should consider becoming consultants. Finding meaningful work that helps pay the bills, provides family, and lets you set your own hours is worth the leap. Years ago a mom had the choice of being at home with the kids or going to work. This is no longer the case. A mom can stay at home and still work. Plus, she can do what she loves doing while at home and enjoying her family. Why be a consultant?

Becoming a consultant has several branches under its umbrella. Reading over a general consultant job description can help you determine where to go. Do you love knitting? Become a knitting consultant. Cross-stitch? Become a cross-stitch consultant. Creating fancy table placements? You guessed it; become a consultant. The expertise that moms learn daily can be placed on paper to create a consulting business. Let’s explore why more moms should consider being a consultant and what consultants do.

Choose Who You Work with and When.

To start the list off, choosing when and whom to work with is important. If there is ever a conflict within your schedule, you are able to let your clients know that a particular day, time, or week will be limited in communication and consulting progress. The freedom to work remoting is a dream. Traveling to another country doesn’t hinder your business, and you can choose if you want to take the time off or continue to do business. Remote businesses work for today’s economy because business is being conducted online more and more each day.

Before landing your target clients, write down your goals for these clients. What are you wanting to accomplish with this business when it pertains to them? Ideas should be flooring the gates in your mind. There are literally thousands of ideas but choosing what you are most passionate about will fuel your drive for becoming a consultant. Once this step is down, another reason to become a consultant kicks in. It’s called income.

Increase Your Income.

This is a no-brainer for single or coupled moms. Single mothers will enjoy this work because it does put money in the bank and food on the table which is the biggest concern when it comes to working. Coupled mothers will enjoy the freedom and can keep themselves occupied if they no longer have young kids in the household or want to contribute to the household. Generating an income from your passion is a win-win situation for many. This is the opportunity to strategize and plan for others to help them excel in the industry you are knowledgeable about. The income and working when you want aspect brings us to another reason; work and home balance.

Have a Work and Home Balance.

A way to start stress-free when working and happy is to have great work and home balance. You know when you are going to work and everyone in the home respects that time. You have made it clear when you are not going to work and your clients respect that. Sometimes the latter can be iffy but not impossible.

This is a wonderful reason as well for why more moms should consider this profession. Moms can be there for all children activities instead of just one and can shout from the stands while working. There are no standard rules you need to follow when you start your own consulting business. You are the rule and have to hold yourself accounting for following your own rules. Sounds like a dream come true. Instead of fueling someone else’s business goals, fuel your own.

Conclusion

Regardless if you are a working mom or stay at home mom becoming a consultant is simple, will not empty your pockets, and will give you freedom when it comes to working. You can start a great profitable career today with a little research. You can start earning income within 30 days and it can be done on the side if you are working a full-time job. As mentioned before, search the internet for a consultant job description and what consultants do to give you insight if you have several ideas and need help narrowing your choice down.

Author Bio: Adrian Rubin is a climate change advocate and freelance writer.

Making Your Home Cozy

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If your dream is to turn your house into a warm, inviting haven for your loved ones, continue reading to discover a few invaluable tips on making your home feel safe and cozy.


Tips on making your home feel safe and cozy:

1. Place a candle in each room in your home

One way to instantly make your room seem cozier is to select a fragrant, decorative candle to place in each room in your home. As an example, if you love the idea of relaxing with a good book in bed, whilst it’s raining outside, it’s well worth displaying a chic candle in your bedroom. The ambiance and smell of the candle will help make your bedroom feel a little cozier.

Alternatively, if you enjoy hosting friends and family members in your family lounge, you’ll also be able to make your lounge a little cozier by lighting a candle, which you can display in your choice of decorative candleholder. As an added idea, if your family members or friends have favorite scents, it’s well worth getting into the habit of lighting their favorite scents, when they visit your home.

2. Invest in a high-quality throw blanket to drape over your sofa or chaise’s armrest

As cozy rooms and homes feature warm fabrics, it’s well worth draping a high-quality, cozy throw blanket over either your primary sofa’s armrest or the art rest of your stylish chaise. If in doubt, you can’t go wrong opting for a faux fur or mink blanket, which will provide you and your family will plenty of warmth, during the long cold winter months.

If you have kids, you can even surprise each child with their very own throw which they can use in your family lounge or media room.

3. Invest in an L shaped sofa so that you can sit closer to your loved ones

Another way to make a lounge feel much cozier and social is to invest in purchasing an L shaped sofa which will allow you to sit much closer to your loved ones. Which will also make your room feel much more inviting and cozy.

4. Consider purchasing velvet decor and furniture items

As velvet decor items are incredibly soft to touch and provide added warmth, it’s well worth using carefully selected velvet decor and furniture items, in order to transform your house into a cozy home. As examples, items which you may want to consider placing around your home include velvet throw pillows, velvet blankets, velvet ottomans, and velvet chaises.

If you’re on a budget, the simplest way to add a few velvet touches to your home is to purchase a few inexpensive throw pillows, which you can use to adorn your sofas and chaises.

5. Paint your walls warm colors

White walls can often make rooms look colder than they are, so if you want to create the illusion of warmth, it’s well worth considering painting your home’s walls yellow, beige or orange, instead of white.

So what are you waiting for? There’s no better time than the present to work on turning your house into a safe and cozy place. It is your place to kick back and relax after a long day of work. Remember to also protect your home with home insurance as this will add to the feeling of comfort and protection.