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With times changing, the household dynamic has switched- Gender Roles.
What's good for some may not be good for others. I get that, but the way the economy is a two person income is always better than one.  I'm just saying..
However, if this has to be done BOTH parties has to participate at 100% to make this work or understand in her eyes your value has dropped below 40%, your feminine energy has put her in her masculine energy and you will never look strong in her eyes.
Everyone situation is different, but 80% of the women I spoke with mentioned leaving that situation immediately, Why? 
Because isn't the man supposed to be the provider?
That's another story for another day, so today lets get into "She say, He say" Working Moms & Stay at Home Dads.

Up first, She said.. "Pull your weight big homie"
In most households, it takes two to raise a family, pay for the bills and keep the house in good shape. For the home to run smoothly, it's necessary for both you and your spouse to pitch in. You work a full-time work schedule, and so does your husband. Therefore, it makes sense for the two of you to work as a team to complete the household chores. Gone are the days where you have to put the kids to bed, clean the entire house, and clean up after your husband all by your lonesome.
These days, your husband may be as mindful about household chores as you are!

1. Every man is different.
Some men intentionally plot to minimize their workload around the house by acting oblivious, while others truly are oblivious. And some do what needs to be done without being asked. Your husband likely falls somewhere between the three.
• What has worked for your sister and your brother-in-law may not be the right approach for getting your husband to pull his weight around the house. Every man is different.
• Approach your husband according to his personality. Be sensitive and caring when approaching him for help. Consider his personality and motivations carefully, and approach him with a loving spirit.

2. Give a little push.
"You need to train your man to do what you want" is a common saying amongst wives. But a gentler approach in love is a much more respectful and effective approach. Provide him with a push in the right direction and respond in a positive way when he makes an effort. 
• It's important to realize that no one likes to be nagged. Be tactful in your approach. Try saying something like, "Honey, my back is killing me. Vacuuming the floors every week is really taking its toll on my back. Would you mind taking over this chore?"

3. Make a list.
Sometimes, men simply have little idea how many things must be done to run the household. With a little more perspective, many men jump at the chance to help carry the load.
• Make a chore chart for your family and hang it prominently in the kitchen. Give every member of the family a colored star (such as Maggie has blue stars next to her chores and Tommy has red) and be sure to include both you and dad within the chart.

4. Be specific.
Ask your husband to help out with specific chores. He likely has a different definition of what "helping out" means, and you can effectively come together by spelling out exactly what you need.
• If you're vague in your description, he may think that loading the dishwasher and wiping the counters every night is enough. Meanwhile, you were hoping that he'd vacuum and fold laundry twice weekly. Communication is the key to a smoothly running home.

5. Call in the big guns.
​If all else fails, let your husband know that you mean business.
• Take it upon yourself to get quotes from local cleaning services and ensure that he's home when you're doing the walkthrough of your home with the consultant. Once he hears that it'll cost your family $400 per month to pick up his slack, he's likely to be more willing to help.

Men and women often have very different ideas of the chores that need to be done in order to keep your household operating smoothly. By following these strategies, you'll finally be able to get your hardworking career man to work hard at doing his part at home as well. With everyone pulling their weight, the household will run smoothly and everyone will be happier.

Next, He said... No one takes me seriously anymore!!!
While there is a growing number of stay at home dads, they still represent a very small segment of the population. If you’re one of these pioneers, you may be amused to see that there’s a reality TV show on AMC in your honor. On the other hand, you may want a little more practical assistance than what you see on Modern Dads. A recent study by the Pew Research Center found that the number of U. S. dads who stay at home while their spouses work full time has almost doubled since the 1970s. The number is now estimated at over 500,000 and still growing.
Unfortunately, there’s also evidence that men may face stiffer career consequences than women for taking time away from the workforce.

If you’re a stay at home dad, you may want to consider these suggestions regarding yourself, your family, and your employment plans. They may help you take better care of your family and get taken more seriously.

Steps to Take with Your Family
1. Discuss expectations with your partner.
Child rearing may be the most important issue to discuss with your partner. Ensure you agree on the major points.

2. Answer your children’s questions.
Your kids are bound to realize their family seems a little different from their friends and classmates. Be open to their questions and answer them with age-appropriate information.

3. Divide responsibilities equitably.
That same Pew study found that some men who stay at home appear to be doing curiously little housework. If that sounds like you, take some initiative and start cleaning.

4.Make a savings plan.
It’s difficult for many families to get by on a single paycheck. Set money aside regularly, even if it’s a small amount, so you have some savings and an emergency fund.

5. Enlist broader support.
Find strength in relatives who respect your decisions. Make an effort to stay in touch and seek their support.

Steps to Take with Yourself
1.Be positive.
Family and friends will pick up on your confident and cheerful attitude. Your kids are especially sensitive to your mood.

2. Join a support group.
Reach out to other men in similar circumstances. You may find a support group online or in your neighborhood.

3. Discuss differences tactfully.
You may encounter people who hold strong viewpoints about traditional gender roles. Try to look at it as an opportunity to present yourself as a constructive role model rather than interpreting their reaction as a personal criticism.

Steps to Take with Employment
1. Explore innovative work arrangements.
The nature of work has changed dramatically since the internet and the most recent recession. If you want to still work outside the home, think about taking on some freelance or contract work, working part time, or sharing a position.
These options will help you stay connected to the workforce. 

2. Assess the culture.
If you receive a job offer, talk with your potential coworkers before accepting it. Check out their experience with being able to leave early for an occasional school event or if there’s the ability to work from home when your child is ill. 

3. Study your benefits.
Similarly, read the employment manual. Some employers offer paid parental leave and day care. Understanding your benefits and compensation will help you decide if it’s financially worthwhile for you and your partner to both work outside the home.

4.Promote fairness.
Make allies by taking everyone’s needs into consideration when it comes to balancing work and home life. Your future colleagues may have elderly parents who they care for or other responsibilities outside of the workplace.

Compared to a generation ago, fathers are already spending about three times as many hours with their children, and most want to increase that amount even further. Staying at home with your children could be the best decision you ever make. You’ll probably end up feeling like it was well worth anything you had to sacrifice along the way. 

Every household dynamic is different. Do what works for your household. I will like to thank my co host on this blog post,  Lawrence Wells for sharing his first hand experience with our audience.

What do you think?
Leave your comments below!

​"Click below to watch and share this video with expecting moms and those who care about them. Let's spread awareness about preeclampsia and support one another on this beautiful journey of motherhood."

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​Remember, your identity is separate from that of your children. When you spend time focusing on yourself, you regain your sense of your identity. You rediscover who you are and what you need.
​Having kids changes who you are, but it doesn't define you.

Navigating Adolescence with Balance
Adolescence is a time of profound change, both physically and emotionally. Peer pressure, academic demands, and social expectations can contribute to stress and anxiety. Reiki, a Japanese energy healing technique, offers adolescents a unique opportunity to find balance amidst this chaos. By gently channeling energy through touch, Reiki helps release emotional blockages, promoting relaxation, and reducing feelings of tension and unease.

Enhancing Emotional Resilience
Back-to-school transitions often come with heightened emotional stress. Reiki can provide adolescents with the tools they need to enhance their emotional resilience. Through regular sessions, teens can develop greater self-awareness and coping mechanisms, empowering them to face challenges with a calm and centered mindset. This newfound emotional strength can make the back-to-school experience more manageable and less overwhelming.

Boosting Focus and Concentration
Academic success is a priority for every parent and adolescent. Reiki's potential to boost focus and concentration can significantly contribute to a student's performance. By promoting a state of relaxation, Reiki helps clear the mind of clutter, allowing adolescents to absorb information more effectively and retain knowledge better. This can lead to improved study habits and a more successful academic journey.

Fostering Self-Confidence
Self-confidence is essential during the adolescent years, as it lays the foundation for healthy self-esteem in adulthood. Reiki nurtures self-confidence by encouraging a positive relationship with oneself. Through the energy healing process, adolescents can develop a greater sense of self-acceptance and self-love, which translates to improved self-esteem and the ability to navigate social interactions with poise.

Empower Your Adolescent with Reiki
As you prepare your child for the upcoming school year, consider introducing them to the transformative world of Reiki. Schedule a session with a certified Reiki practitioner to provide your adolescent with the tools they need to thrive emotionally, mentally, and academically. By investing in their well-being now, you're equipping them with a powerful toolkit that will serve them well throughout their educational journey and beyond.

Empower your adolescent with Reiki today, and watch them embark on the new school year with confidence, resilience, and a renewed sense of balance.

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Soothing a crying baby can be a challenge, but there are several methods you can try to comfort and calm them. Keep in mind that each baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.

Here are some tips to help you STOP your baby from crying:

Check for Basic Needs: Ensure your baby's basic needs are met. Check if they are hungry, need a diaper change, or are uncomfortable due to clothing or temperature.

Hold and Cuddle: Hold your baby close and provide gentle cuddles. The feeling of warmth and security can be reassuring.

Swaddle: Swaddling can mimic the feeling of being in the womb, providing comfort and helping babies feel secure.

Rock or Sway: Gently rock or sway your baby in your arms or a rocking chair. The motion can be soothing.

White Noise or Shushing: Use white noise machines, a hairdryer, or shushing sounds to create a calming environment.

Offer a Pacifier: A pacifier can provide comfort and help soothe a fussy baby.

Change of Environment: Sometimes a change of scenery can distract and calm a crying baby. Take them for a short walk outside or move to a different room.

Massage: Gently massaging your baby's back, legs, or tummy can be relaxing for them.

Provide a Warm Bath: A warm bath can help relax and comfort a fussy baby.

Use a Baby Swing or Bouncer: Some babies find the gentle movement of a swing or bouncer soothing.

Check for Illness or Discomfort: If your baby's crying is persistent or unusual, check for signs of illness or discomfort, such as fever or redness.

Involve Other Caregivers: Sometimes a change in caregiver can help calm a crying baby.

Stay Calm and Patient: Babies can sense their caregiver's emotions. Stay calm and patient, as your own stress can affect your baby's mood.

Remember that babies cry as a way of communicating, and it is a normal part of their development. It's essential to be patient and responsive to their needs. If you are unsure why your baby is crying or if their crying is persistent, consult with a pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.

Happy Fathers Day Fellas!
Enjoy this Self-Care Guide for Men.

Many men are missing out on the boom in self-care. Vanilla scented candles may sound a little too feminine. However, wellness is a basic need for any gender.

​Unfortunately, men face some extra barriers:
● Magazine articles and television ads tend to target women, and the products and ideas may not appeal to men.

● There are still social pressures on men to focus more on their career than their personal lives.

● Even if they think about their bodies, they may be more used to controlling them than listening to them.

While there are challenges to overcome, self-care is just as important for men as for women. Try these suggestions for nurturing your body and mind.

Men’s Self-Care for Physical Health:

1. Exercise regularly.  Men tend to be more physically active than women, so keep it up. If you usually lift weights and play sports, remember to make stretching a regular part of your workouts too.

2. Eat a balanced diet. Focus on whole foods instead of ultra-processed products. Consume at least 3 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruit each day.

3. Sleep well. Heart and lung issues that interrupt sleep are more common in men. Make it easier to get your 8 hours by maintaining a consistent bedtime and blocking out background noise with a fan or white noise machine.

4. Drink in moderation. The CDC reports that men are almost twice as likely to binge drink compared to women. Limit yourself to 2 drinks or less a day and take days off from alcohol. 

5. Avoid smoking. Giving up tobacco is one of the most important things you can do for your health. That includes smokeless varieties of tobacco as well. If you’ve tried before, try again. Most adults need more than one attempt to quit.

6. Practice skin care. You may want to take a second look at face masks. Your skin is an organ that needs attention. Wear sunscreen and shave your face after showering when it's warm and moist.

7. See your doctor. Average life expectancy for men is five years less than women. The causes are complex, but you can increase your odds by getting routine screenings and following your doctor’s recommendations.


Men’s Self-Care for Mental Health: 

1. Deepen your friendships. Many studies have found that men have fewer and more superficial relationships with each other. For closer connections, try spending more time with your friends and ask questions to learn more about them.
   
   
2. Manage stress. Find constructive ways to deal with daily tensions. Physical activity is a great way to relax and boost your mood. Other smart choices include listening to music and spending time with your dog.
   
   
3. Continue learning. Stimulate your mind. Take courses about subjects that interest you, especially topics unrelated to your career. Read books and listen to podcasts while you’re running or driving.
   
   
4. Develop your spirituality. Connect with something bigger than yourself. Reflect and pray on your own, or as part of your faith community. Heal. Consider Reiki (Energy Healing Session)
5. Study science or give back to your community with volunteer work.
   
   
6. Consider counseling. Depression, suicide, and substance abuse are higher among men, but they’re less likely to seek mental health services. Overcoming the stigma could save your life. Your primary care provider can help you find resources and treatment is confidential.

There's more to self-care than bubble baths, and many men are catching on. Almost 60% of men said they’re participating in more self-care practices over the past 5 years, according to a survey by Miraval Resorts. Your lifestyle plays a major role in your wellbeing, so join the self-care revolution.
You’ll be glad you did!​

I am sure you read the title, now can you?

In Illinois, there are more people hospitalized for poisonings than injuries from firearms and motor vehicle collisions combined.
​
Common household cleaners can look like tasty, refreshing drinks to toddlers.  
Store cleaners in original containers (so adults don't get confused too), high out of reach and out of sight of small children. 

​Check out the Youtube video and let me know if you can spot the difference!

#poison #poisoning #safehome #homesafety