Karissa Tunis

Why Your Roofing Contractor Should Be Local

February 26, 2025

The wind finally dies down, the rain stops hammering against the windows, and for the first time in hours, the house isn’t shaking like it’s got a due to Mother Nature. You step outside, hoping for the best. Instead, your front yard looks just has roofing material covered all over it. Now, this might not sound common, but yeah, during horrible weather, this can be possible.

Obviously, something needs to be done. But here’s where it gets tricky. You do a quick search for roofing contractors, and suddenly you’re drowning in options. And yeah, every company promises to be the best, the fastest, the cheapest. But some even have deals that seem too good to be true. Now sure, when it comes to home improvement, contractor shopping can be a lot of fun, but this is a whole other story.

Just generally speaking, not all roofing contractors are created equal, and if there’s one thing you want to get right, it’s this. Because choosing the wrong one? Well, that’s how you end up paying for the same job twice.

For more on this topic, check out the full Family Home collection

Local Contractors Actually Get It

A contractor from three states away might know roofs, but do they know your roof? The one that’s been battered by ice storms, soaked by relentless summer rains, and baked by heatwaves that turn pavement into lava? Well, probably not. But a local roofing contractor, on the other hand, has spent years dealing with these exact conditions. They know what works, what doesn’t, and which materials can handle the chaos of your local weather without falling apart six months later.

And it’s not just about the weather. There’s also the maze of building codes, permits, and regulations that need to be followed unless you enjoy surprise fines and construction delays. Plus, a contractor who’s been working in your area for years already knows the ins and outs of these rules, meaning there’s no guesswork, no red tape nightmares, and no city inspector showing up with that “we need to talk” look on their face.

Roof Repair or Full Replacement?

Oh yeah, now this one is definitely the million-dollar question: can the roof be saved, or is it time to say goodbye? Some contractors will push for a full replacement no matter what, while others will slap on a quick fix and hope you don’t notice the leaks starting up again in a few months. But yeah, neither of these options is great. You need someone who’s going to give you the truth, not just the answer that makes them the most money.

Local contractors know what’s normal for houses in your area. They can tell if your roof is just showing its age or if it’s genuinely on its last legs. If a few repairs will do the trick, they’ll tell you. If your roof is hanging on by a thread, they’ll let you know that too, before it decides to cave in on its own terms. Basically, there should be no scare tactics, no unnecessary upsells, just straight-up honesty.

How Can You Spot Roof Trouble?

Most people don’t spend their weekends casually inspecting their roofs (understandable, because there are way more fun ways to spend a Saturday). The problem is, damage has a way of sneaking up. So by the time you see the signs, things have usually already gone from “minor inconvenience” to “major financial headache.”

This is exactly why having a trusted local contractor is so important. They know what warning signs to look for in homes around your area and can catch problems before they escalate into something catastrophic. Because the last thing you need is to be sitting in your living room watching water drip from your ceiling into your coffee.

The Problem with Out-of-Town Contractors

Here’s where things get risky. After a big storm, you might see a flood of out-of-town roofing companies swooping in, offering what seem like incredible deals. Maybe it’s things like fast service, low prices, and promises of high-quality work.

But once the job is done, they disappear, taking their warranties, customer service, and any accountability with them. If something goes wrong, good luck getting them back to fix it. But a local roofing contractor isn’t going anywhere. So there is some security there.

How to Make Sure You’re Hiring the Right Contractor

Now this one hits people by surprise but just because a company has a local phone number doesn’t mean they’re truly local. Some are just passing through, trying to cash in on storm damage, and by the time problems show up, they’re long gone. The best way to know you’re getting the real deal? Well, just ask around. You can even check if the contractor has an actual physical location in town. If they don’t, that’s a huge red flag.

For more on this topic, check out the full Family Home collection

7 Things Dogs Look for in Their Favorite Comfort Objects: A Guide

February 25, 2025

Does your dog have a favorite blanket, toy, or plushie that they almost never part with? If so, then that item is most likely their comfort object. Dogs often rely on comfort objects as a source of security and emotional support. For instance, if they’re in a new or stressful environment, simply being able to play with their comfort toy can significantly reduce their anxiety. Some comfort objects can provide dogs with mental stimulation and a sense of routine, and teething puppies may also use their comfort object to satisfy their innate urge to chew.

That being said, dogs can also be particular about what they want in a comfort object. As such, if you’re buying new pet supplies or having custom plush toys made for your dog, it’s important to have an idea of what they look for in their comfort objects so that you can provide them with new ones that will meet those requirements.

For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet collection

A Guide to the 7 Things Dogs Look for in Their Favorite Comfort Objects

The following are several key factors that dogs may specifically seek when it comes to their comfort objects:

1. Softness and Texture

Many dogs are drawn to blankets and plushies because of their soft texture, which are gentle on their mouths and provide them with a cozy feeling. This is particularly common in dogs that enjoy “nursing” on their toys, as the soft object allows them to mimic the act of suckling from their mother.

Soft toys or plushies can also remind dogs of their littermates, giving them a deep sense of comfort and companionship. Thus, it’s not uncommon to find them snuggling with a soft comfort object as they seek that same warmth they used to get from their mother and siblings.

2. Durability and Chewability

Dogs naturally love to chew. The act allows them to release excess energy, relieve stress, exercise their jaws, or simply have fun. That means they’ll naturally prefer toys that are able to withstand their gnawing, but that aren’t so hard that they damage or hurt the dog’s teeth.

The choice of comfort object to chew on can also depend on a dog’s breed. Some dogs, particularly power chewers such as German shepherds and pit bulls, prefer rubbery or thick fabric toys that can endure their intense chewing. Meanwhile, smaller or older dogs might opt for softer chewing options instead.

3. A Familiar Scent

A dog’s sense of smell is particularly sensitive. This is why bringing them into a completely new environment where they aren’t used to the surrounding smell yet can be a scary or stressful experience for them. It makes sense, then, that another criteria dogs look for in their comfort objects are familiar scents—whether their owner’s scent or a scent they often encounter at home.

For example, they may be attached to a certain blanket because it smells like their bedding and they associate their bedding with safety. Wrapping them in that comfort blanket will allow you to impart a sense of ease, even when your dog is feeling anxious or stressed.

4. Emotional Association

Dogs are also capable of forming emotional attachments to objects, especially if the object was given to them in a positive context. For instance, they may see a stuffed toy given to them when they were a puppy as an important companion they had while growing up. Hence, they’ll remain strongly attached to it even once they’re grown. Having these objects close can evoke that same positive feeling, allowing the dog to feel calmer and more at ease.

5. Size and Shape

Comfort objects that can be easily carried, cuddled with, or played with are a must for many dogs. Puppies and small breeds in particular like toys they can carry with their mouths. Meanwhile, larger breeds may be partial to bigger objects such as plush pillows so that they can rest their heads on them.

The way dogs interact with their comfort objects can also reveal their preferences. Dogs who like shaking their toys, for example, may prefer objects with long limbs or appendages. On the other hand, dogs who are exhibiting nurturing behavior may feel more attached to small plushies that they can gently play with and treat like a puppy of their own.

6. Taste and Mouthfeel

Many dogs also prefer chewing toys with a certain mouthfeel to them. Typically rubbery, soft, or textured in a way that feels satisfying to gnaw on. Comfort toys infused with the smell of common food, such as peanut butter or bacon scents, may also prove to be highly enticing for dogs. And even more so if they already enjoy that food. As many dogs use their comfort objects as something to chew on for oral comfort, objects with a familiar taste or a satisfying mouthfeel can therefore make the act much more effective in calming them down.

7. Interactive Elements

Objects that produce sound or have interesting textures can also be appealing for dogs. These items often become comfort objects because they promise entertainment and mental stimulation for dogs. They can also make their playtime much more exciting and fulfilling. Thus, if you’re planning on introducing new toys to your dog to replace or supplement an old comfort object, then you may be best off with those that come with interactive elements.

Conclusion to Your Dog’s Favorite Comfort Objects

Your dog’s choice of comfort objects relies on a variety of factors. This can include their instincts, past experiences, and personal preferences. Knowing what they get out of interacting with their comfort objects will result in deeper insight about your pet’s behavior. And you’ll then be better equipped to help them feel more secure… Especially during stressful moments!

For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet collection

The Moving Day Playbook: Keeping Kids Happy, Safe, and Excited During an International Move

February 24, 2025

Moving to another country can be stressful for families. Children often struggle with the change, feeling overwhelmed by new surroundings, routines, and faces. However, with careful planning, you can help kids adjust to a new start and transition easier. Keeping kids happy, safe, and excited during an international move requires a structured approach. This guide will help you manage the process effectively, ensuring a smooth and positive experience for everyone involved.

For more on this topic, check out the full Moving Tips collection

Preparing Kids for the Big Move

Communication is key. Talk to your children about the move early on. Explain why you are relocating and highlight the benefits. Show them pictures or videos of the new home, school, and neighborhood. If possible, involve them in decisions, such as choosing decorations for their new room or selecting travel essentials. Providing a sense of control helps reduce anxiety and builds excitement. Children respond well to familiarity, so establish a countdown calendar to help them visualize the timeline. Encourage them to ask questions and express their concerns.

Prepare for the Move While Keeping Kids Happy, Safe and Excited During an International Move

Keeping kids happy, safe, and excited during an international move requires careful planning, especially when balancing logistics with keeping your children entertained. One of the best ways to reduce stress is by hiring professional movers who specialize in international relocations, heavy lifting, piano transportation and other steps included in relocation. They handle everything, allowing you to focus on your family. While movers manage heavy lifting, create a fun environment for your kids. Set up a safe play area with their favorite toys, coloring books, and snacks. If possible, arrange a movie day or interactive games to keep them engaged. Let them pack a small “special box” with their treasured items, giving them a sense of involvement. Hiring movers also means you can spend quality time reassuring your children.

Managing Jet Lag and Sleep Adjustments

Time zone changes can disrupt sleep patterns. To help children prepare for the overseas move, gradually shift their bedtime before the move. Once you arrive, expose them to natural light during the day and limit screen time before bed. Keeping their sleep routine consistent will help them settle faster in the new environment. Encourage relaxation by maintaining bedtime rituals such as reading stories or playing soft music. If possible, unpack their bedroom essentials first so they have a familiar space to sleep in. Using blackout curtains can also help regulate sleep, especially if the new time zone has significant daylight differences.

Safety is a Top Priority

Safety is a priority when moving. Assign a trusted adult to supervise children during loading and unloading. If possible, arrange for a friend or family member to watch them. Create a designated kid-friendly space in both the old and new home with soft seating, toys, and a small table. Keeping them engaged in familiar activities will help ease the transition. Encourage involvement in safe, age-appropriate tasks, such as labeling boxes with stickers or decorating their moving boxes. This will keep them engaged while giving them a role in the process. Before moving day, explain safety rules, such as staying away from heavy furniture or avoiding busy streets while loading and unloading. For long moving days, schedule regular breaks to let kids move around, have snacks, and unwind.

Creating a Moving Day Essentials Kit

On moving day, children need comfort and distractions. Preparing a kit with:

favorite snacks
tablet with downloaded movies
books
toys
change of clothes.

For younger kids, pack extra diapers, wipes, and comfort items such as a stuffed animal or blanket. This kit will keep them occupied and reduce stress while movers handle logistics. Consider packing a separate bag for older kids with journals, travel games, and headphones. To actually enjoy packing together let them to select their own travel essentials, fostering a sense of independence. If traveling by plane, ensure that essential items comply with airline regulations. Keep identification documents, medications, and emergency contact information easily accessible.

Introducing Kids to Their New Home

Once you arrive, take time to explore the new home together. Show kids their room first and allow them to arrange their belongings. A familiar sleeping space can provide comfort. Walk through the neighborhood, pointing out parks, playgrounds, and nearby attractions. Making the new house feel like home and exciting encourages a positive outlook. Plan fun activities for the first few days, such as a visit to a favorite restaurant or a trip to a nearby amusement park. Small positive experiences will help them associate the move with happiness. Encourage them to participate in setting up the home, such as picking out new decorations or organizing their toys.

Helping Kids Adapt to a New School

Starting at a new school can be intimidating. Before the move, research schools and involve children in the selection process. If possible, visit in advance or take a virtual tour. Encourage them to join extracurricular activities to meet new friends. Stay engaged with teachers to track their emotional adjustment and academic progress. Consider reaching out to the school counselor to discuss any concerns. Many schools have buddy programs that pair new students with classmates to help them integrate. Let your child bring a small comfort item in their backpack for the first few weeks to ease any nervousness.

Staying Connected with Old Friends

Leaving behind friends is one of the hardest parts of moving. Help your children maintain connections by setting up video calls and encouraging letter writing or emails. Social media can also help older kids stay in touch. Assure them that making new friends does not mean forgetting old ones.

Plan virtual playdates or movie nights where they can watch a film together from different locations. Help them create a memory book with pictures and messages from their old friends. Encourage them to talk about their feelings and remind them that friendships can continue despite the distance.

Conclusion: Keep Kids Happy, Safe and Excited for a Big Event

Keeping kids happy, safe, and excited during an international move requires planning and patience. Open communication, familiar comforts, and structured routines help ease the transition. By preparing in advance and maintaining a positive attitude, parents can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for their children.

For more on this topic, check out the full Moving Tips collection

How to Dress Like a Mom (Not a Regular Mom, a Cool Mom)

Not all moms have the ability to look as they have just stepped down the runway, on the contrary, when it comes to appearance, full-time moms tend to neglect it from time to time. Even if you don’t feel like dressing up in skinny jeans and a tight fancy shirt around the house or to go to the convenience store, doesn’t mean you should look your coolest. Being a mom comes with various challenges and ups and downs, but those are the perks that keep us going, and fashion-wise there is always a solution. Read on to discover how to look your very best (and coolest) even if you are solely performing your “mom” chores.

For more on this topic, check out the full All About Moms or Self Care collections

Focus on fit

You would likely be running around the kids and multitasking other work-related duties, so the aim is to dress up in clothes that fit you well. And this often starts with your undergarments. Finding the perfect bra will help your clothes look nicer as they will drape better over your body.

You don’t want to ruin your favorite blouse with ketchup or to have to bend and collect toys in leather pants. The point is to widely balance your apparel and choose the clothes that fit you well. Neither too short nor too long. Plus, avoid too baggy or oversized clothes, there is no need to look twice your size, but smart and sexy.

Simplify your accessories

Washing, cleaning, scrubbing, the thing is most moms avoid wearing accessories so as not to ruin or break them. That may be so, but wearing a stylish and sleek headband around the house will make you feel more positive and energized. Likewise, opting for one exquisite piece of jewelry like a gemstone ring with symbolic meaning. If you haven’t heard about the power of aquamarine, for instance, you can read here https://moonmagic.com/blogs/news/aquamarine-meaning to find out. This magnificent jewelry item has the power to give you extra “mom” strength and encourage you to let go of worrying thoughts, so embrace them.

Sporty chic apparel

This might sound crazy, but combining sport and leisure apparel with some stunning tops and t-shirts can totally transform your entire outlook. Not only will you look cool, but you will feel more comfortable and relaxed. The athleisure style is booming nowadays, and it’s no wonder most contemporary moms adore it. Put on cozy black sports leggings and a fancy striped top, or go for comfy yoga-pants and a fitted or slouchy sleek sweater. You’d look fresh and ready to take on any obstacles.

Revolutionize your style

Just because you are a mom, doesn’t mean you don’t have to keep up with the fashion. Actually, being stylish and confident, but with a twist, is the key hack to being a cool mom. You want to follow the latest trends, but keep it plain and simple. For example, get skinny dark denim jeans and pair them up with patterns grey tees and ugg-style khaki boots. Put on a short-sleeved linen dress for women with your favorite sneakers. Or opt for a charcoal cardigan sweater to match with a fitted black tunic and ravishing emerald green moccasins.

Color mode – ON

One of the best and easiest ways to upgrade your look and revive your mom-style is to splash out some colors. When you go running for errands, shopping for groceries, or out for a walk with your kids, let the eyes turn towards you by your sensational look. Embrace lively colors that can utterly revitalize your entire look. Pair up denim jeans with a stripped blue and white tee and joyous yellowish cardigan, or start with brown pants, a scarlet top, and statement golden earrings. The list is endless. By adding colors to the seemingly chaotic day, you will feel like a super mom.

For those times when you want to dress up because you have a special occasion, think about all you have learned about using color to choose the right outfit. It doesn’t matter if you find affordable quince gowns online or getting a gown from your local store, understanding how to select colors that flatter you is important.

Don’t hesitate to push your style a little bit outside the box and go for something extravagant. Never settle for ordinary as every single mom should look and feel extraordinary at all times.

For more on this topic, check out the full All About Moms or Self Care collections

Key Tips That Will Help You Improve Your Business This Year

Making sure you take the right steps that are going to help you when it comes to improving your business is so important. And there are a lot of ideas that play a part in this. When you are trying to launch a business, one of the best ways of being able to achieve this is to make sure you focus on the best ways of being able to be more successful with your planning and preparation.

It is important to come up with some of the best ideas that are going to allow you to make the right decisions for the future. When you are looking to focus on this process, and you need to make sure you come up with some of the best and most excellent ideas that are going to allow you to improve your company as much as possible, and these are some of the best options that you need to try to make the most of as much as possible right now.

For more on this topic, check out the full Work Life Balance collection

Come up With a Strong Plan

Coming up with a strong and detailed business plan is one of the best things that you can do when it comes to making your company better. And it will help improve the way in which it is growing. You have to consider some of the best success that you can achieve as a modern business, and a strong business plan plays a massive part in this. You have to make sure you work out some of the key ideas that are going to allow you to work on this as much as possible. A strong business plan gives your company direction and helps you to improve the way you can go about achieving this right now.

Decide the Sort of Business You Want to Start

Choosing the sort of business you want to start is definitely something you need to work on as much as possible, and this is something you have to make the most of as much as you can. This is something that you need to keep in mind as much as possible and there are a lot of considerations to make here. Try to focus on some of the key ideas that play a role in helping you improve this, and you need to consider some of the best ideas that are going to allow you to make the right decisions to help you with this, whether you’re starting an e-commerce business or launching a digital marketing company.

Make Sure Everything is in Order

Making sure everything is in order as much as possible is so important and there are a lot of things that play a part in helping you when you are looking to make the most of this. Try to understand some of the key ideas that are going to help you achieve this, and focus on keeping everything in order. One of the best ways of doing this is to make sure you sort out things like an online federal EIN filing service to keep your business on the right path and make sure you’re ticking all the relevant boxes. Perhaps it’s going over your copy with ProWritingAid to ensure the grammar is in place. It’s smart to cross your T’s and dot your I’s before you launch.

Look for possible expansion opportunities

If you want to improve your business, looking for possible expansion opportunities that will allow you to create further revenue streams to increase your business’s financial security is the best idea to achieve this goal. An excellent opportunity for expansion can be franchising, especially if your business model would be simple to replicate in other locations. If you want to franchise your business without potential pitfalls, consider contacting a professional franchise consultancy company to help you get your expansion plans on track as soon as possible.

But remember, you also need to expand your knowledge base and capabilities. This can come through hiring, outsourcing, or training staff on custom elearning content so you can scale with confidence

There are a lot of things that you need to make sure you get right when you are trying to make the most of this. Try to understand some of the key ideas that are going to allow you to make the right choices that can help your company to thrive and improve, and this is something you need to work on as much as possible.

For more on this topic, check out the full Work Life Balance collection

Navigating Surrogacy: A Complex Journey of Parenthood

Surrogacy has long been a topic of ethical debate. While it offers hope to many aspiring parents who are unable to conceive naturally, it also raises profound questions about autonomy, exploitation, and the rights of the child. As society grapples with the complexities of modern reproductive technology, it’s important to understand the dynamics of child surrogacy and its moral and legal implications.

Let’s take a look at some of the trickier or challenging aspects of surrogacy that need to be considered and understood before setting out on this journey.

For more on this topic, check out the full Pregnancy Through Postpartum collection

The Process

First let’s briefly discuss how this process generally works. A couple decides that they wish to employ a surrogate – this may be due for a variety of reasons, including infertility, medical conditions, or same-sex partnerships.

This means finding someone to act as the surrogate. This process is generally undertaken with the help of a surrogacy agency that helps find you a match, however it can also be done privately. In some cases a family member or friend may decide to help. They often consult with fertility specialists, surrogacy agencies, and legal advisors to understand the process thoroughly and to decide whether gestational surrogacy (where the surrogate is not genetically related to the child) or traditional surrogacy (where the surrogate is the egg donor) is right for them.

Generally speaking, the surrogate receives a payment from the intended parents in exchange for their service as per a written agreement. Medical care is provided throughout at the intended parents’ cost, and the relationship between intended parents and surrogate is often supportive and personal. After the child is born, the surrogate legally relinquishes any parental rights, and the intended parents assume full legal custody.

Ethical Considerations

One of the central ethical concerns surrounding child surrogacy revolves around the autonomy and agency of the surrogate mother. Critics argue that surrogates, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, may face coercion or exploitation, leading to a commodification of their bodies. Additionally, questions arise about the emotional toll on surrogates who carry a child but have no biological relationship or legal claim to the baby.

On the other hand, proponents emphasize the importance of reproductive autonomy, asserting that women have the right to make informed choices about their bodies and participate in arrangements that provide financial compensation. They argue that surrogacy can be a mutually beneficial arrangement, offering compensation to surrogates while fulfilling the dreams of intended parents longing for a child.

Relationship Dynamics

The relationship dynamics between intended parents (IPs) and the surrogate are crucial to the surrogacy journey’s success and well-being for all parties involved. This relationship, often built on mutual respect and shared goals, can vary significantly from one arrangement to another and is influenced by personal preferences, legal agreements, and cultural or emotional factors. This is an area that can be simple and straightforward provided the relationship is good. However complications can arise for various reasons – emotional, financial or otherwise – so it’s important to be wary of this.

Legal Frameworks

The legal landscape of child surrogacy varies significantly across different jurisdictions. Some countries have embraced surrogacy as a legitimate form of family building, enacting comprehensive laws to regulate the process and protect the rights of all parties involved. In contrast, other nations have implemented strict bans or restrictions on surrogacy, citing concerns about exploitation, the commercialization of reproduction, and the potential for legal disputes.

Navigating the legal complexities of surrogacy often requires meticulous planning, including the establishment of clear contractual agreements, parental rights, and the resolution of potential conflicts. In jurisdictions where surrogacy is permitted, courts play a vital role in adjudicating disputes and ensuring that the best interests of the child are upheld.

Child Welfare and Rights

Central to discussions surrounding child surrogacy is the welfare and rights of the child born through this process. Critics argue that surrogacy arrangements may create confusion or emotional distress for the child, particularly regarding questions of identity and belonging. Additionally, concerns exist about the potential for exploitation or abandonment if legal protections are inadequate or unenforced.

However, advocates contend that children born via surrogacy deserve the same love, care, and legal recognition as any other child. They argue that with proper legal safeguards and support structures in place, children born through surrogacy can thrive in loving families and develop healthy relationships with both their genetic and intended parents.

How Can a Child Surrogacy Agency Assist with This Complex Process?

A child surrogacy agency plays a pivotal role in facilitating the complex process of surrogacy, providing guidance, support, and resources to intended parents, surrogate mothers, and other involved parties. Here are several ways in which a child surrogacy agency can assist:

Matching Services

Surrogacy agencies often have extensive databases of surrogate mothers and intended parents, allowing them to facilitate matches based on compatibility, preferences, and shared goals. This matching process ensures that both parties are aligned in their expectations and desires, fostering a positive and harmonious surrogacy journey through the IVF & fertility clinic outcomes.

Legal Assistance

Surrogacy involves navigating a myriad of legal complexities, including drafting contracts, establishing parental rights, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. A reputable surrogacy agency typically has legal experts who can provide guidance, draft legally binding agreements, and ensure that all parties understand their rights and responsibilities throughout the process.

Medical Coordination

Surrogacy often requires coordination with fertility clinics, medical professionals, and specialists to facilitate the embryo transfer process, prenatal care, and childbirth. Surrogacy agencies can assist in coordinating these medical aspects, ensuring that both the surrogate mother and the intended parents receive appropriate medical support and care.

Psychological Support

The surrogacy journey can be emotionally challenging for all parties involved, including the surrogate mother, intended parents, and even the child born through surrogacy. A surrogacy agency may offer psychological support services, such as counseling and therapy, to help individuals navigate the emotional complexities and build healthy relationships throughout the process.

Financial Guidance

Surrogacy involves significant financial investments, including compensation for the surrogate mother, medical expenses, legal fees, and agency fees. A surrogacy agency can provide financial guidance and assistance, helping intended parents understand the costs involved, explore financing options, and budget effectively to ensure a smooth surrogacy journey.

Logistical Support

Surrogacy arrangements often require logistical coordination, including travel arrangements, accommodation, and scheduling appointments. A surrogacy agency can provide logistical support, assisting with travel arrangements, coordinating appointments, and ensuring that all parties are informed and prepared for each step of the process.

Post-Birth Support

The journey does not end with childbirth; post-birth support is crucial to ensure a smooth transition for both the surrogate mother and the intended parents. Surrogacy agencies may offer post-birth support services, including assistance with legal procedures, emotional support, and resources for navigating the challenges of parenthood.

Overall, a child surrogacy agency serves as a valuable resource and support system for individuals and couples embarking on the surrogacy journey. By providing guidance, support, and resources, these agencies play a crucial role in facilitating positive and successful surrogacy experiences for all parties involved.

Surrogacy Conclusion

Surrogacy represents a complex intersection of reproductive technology, ethics, and law. While it offers hope and opportunities for many individuals and couples longing for parenthood, it also raises profound questions about autonomy, exploitation, and the rights of all involved parties. As society continues to grapple with these complexities, it becomes imperative to enact thoughtful regulations, provide support for all parties involved, and prioritize the welfare and best interests of the children born through surrogacy. Only through careful consideration and dialogue can we navigate the ethical landscape of child surrogacy and ensure that it remains a pathway to parenthood rooted in compassion, dignity, and respect.

For more on this topic, check out the full Pregnancy Through Postpartum collection

6 Home-Improvement Tips to Adore Where You Live

February 23, 2025

You’ll have dropped some serious dollars to get your hands on the keys to your home. Indeed, it’ll likely be the most expensive purchase you’ll ever make. As such, it’s not only acceptable to have high standards for your home; it’s essential. Your home won’t automatically put a smile on your face, at least not on a long-term basis. You’ll need to create the environment that you love being in. Thankfully, that’s not an impossible task. Indeed, you can make your home your favorite place on the planet with a couple of weeks of work. In this post, we’ll run through a bunch of home-improvement tips that’ll greatly enhance the quality of your humble abode.

For more on this topic, check out the full Family Home collection

Refresh the Decor

If you’ve been living in your property for a while, then it’s worthwhile considering giving the decor a bit of a refresh. You’d be surprised at what a lick of paint can do to the look and feel of a room. You don’t need to redecorate the whole home, but in your most-used and important spaces, such as your living room and bedroom, it’s something worth considering. It’ll help to breathe new life into the property.

Organize the Home

This is another tip for people who have been living in their homes for some years: look at investing some time into getting your home organized. Things tend to become a little chaotic after a while, with clutter and the rest contributing to creating a space that has a subtly negative impact. Decluttering your property can have a profound impact on your experience of your house, and can even help to raise some money (if you sell the items you no longer need), which you can then use to improve your property even further.

Add Art and Plants

And if you do sell your unwanted items, then what better way to spend your money than on art and plants? Both of these are probably underutilized by homeowners, for reasons that aren’t quite clear. A house that has plenty of plants and art on the walls has a brighter, happier atmosphere than ones without. If you’ve never looked after plants before, then focus on ones that are easy to look after before building up to more complex — and interesting — plants. For your art, it’s best to buy original pieces rather than ones that you find available in everyday home stores. You’ll pay a little more, but not that much more, and you’ll feel the difference.

Improve Front of House

You’ll spend most of your energy improving the inside of your property. But the external parts of your property deserve a bit of love too. The front of your house, for example, can set the tone for your property and can just simply make returning home after a long day of work much more enjoyable. Who doesn’t want to arrive at a property that looks delightful from the street? You don’t need to do anything grand to improve the front of your home. Homes with a vintage theme would benefit from some functional furniture hardware upgrades. You can boost your home’s curb appeal by landscaping your front yard, changing the front door (a pop of color, perhaps?), and upgrading your windows. Do those three things, and the front of your home will look a lot more pleasant.

Create a Relaxing, Tech-Free Space

Your home functions as a peaceful retreat from the outside world. Or, at least, that’s what it should function as. All too often, homeowners can end up spending a significant amount of time staring at their devices while in their property. While there’s nothing wrong with that exactly, it can impact relaxation levels. One way to improve your home’s credentials as a peaceful retreat is to create a relaxing, tech-free space. In that space, you’ll do little more than just read, meditate, do yoga, or anything else technology-free. You’ll find that it does wonders for your stress levels.

Yard Fun

Finally, think about your backyard. This part of your property presents plenty of opportunities for good times if you set it up that way. To start, look at getting your yard into shape. A green space with plenty of plants is more relaxing than one that looks wild and chaotic. You’ll also want to add some decking and outdoor furniture in order to create an outdoor living space. A BBQ, lighting, and hammock will ensure you can spend long spring and summer days soaking up the goodness of your yard with friends and family, while an outdoor fire pit will allow you to enjoy the chillier months out there, too.

Bonus Tip: Update the Roof

Your roof plays a vital role in your home. It protects the house from a lot of weather, and even impacts its curb appeal. It’s worth making sure your roof is as effective and visually appealing as possible. There are plenty of ways you can do this, like with metal roofing panels. Go with the best option for your home, and you shouldn’t have a problem making it look and function better.

For more on this topic, check out the full Family Home collection

5 Things That Will Make Parent Life Easier

Parenthood is wonderful! But, if we’re honest, it can also be hard. And sometimes you’re lucky if you can get a “Thanks Mom!” for all of your efforts. So, today we are going to look for a few cheat codes to make the ride smoother…

For more on this topic, check out the full Child Behavior collection

1. The Magic of a “No” That Sticks

Picture this: your toddler is on their fourth meltdown of the day because you refused to let them eat crayons (again). Sound familiar? One of the best gifts you can give yourself is the power of a consistent “no.” Kids are surprisingly perceptive; if they sense there’s even a tiny crack in your defense, they’ll wiggle through it faster than you can hide the glitter. By calmly and consistently holding your ground, you’ll discover fewer battles—and your eardrums will thank you.

2. Organization Stations: More Than Just Pinterest Dreams

We’ve all drooled over those perfectly organized playrooms on social media. While you might not achieve the Martha Stewart aesthetic, setting up a few labeled bins and shelves can seriously cut down on your daily chaos. The key is to make it easy for kids to clean up after themselves. A labeled bin for LEGOs, a “library corner” for books—suddenly, your floor goes from landmine zone to something resembling a functioning home. Plus, a little order means less stepping on pointy plastic blocks in the middle of the night.

3. Routines: Your New Best Friend

Kids thrive on routines, even if they act like they hate them. Waking up at the same time, having a consistent bedtime, and scheduling daily chores or reading time will reduce the dreaded “But do I have to?” whine. It also frees up precious brainpower, so you can focus on more important things—like figuring out how to sneak veggies into their dinner without them noticing. Bonus: once they’re in a routine, you might even carve out a few extra minutes to breathe between soccer practice and yet another birthday party.

4. Future-Proofing (Because College Tuition Won’t Pay for Itself)

Yes, day-to-day parent life can feel like a circus, but it’s never too early to plan for what’s next. Whether it’s tucking away a bit of savings every month or setting up a RESP for their education, putting money toward your kids’ future can ease long-term stress. Take it from someone who’s seen college bills that could rival a luxury car payment—planning ahead is a kindness to your future self. And hey, it might even earn you a grateful text from your kid when they’re off at college (emphasis on might).

5. Self-Care That Doesn’t Break the Bank

Yes, the phrase “self-care” might feel like a cliché by now, but hear me out: a little pampering goes a long way. Whether it’s reading an actual book in silence or taking a 20-minute bath while the chaos is contained by a co-parent, finding micro-moments of zen can recharge your batteries. Because, as it turns out, happy parents are more likely to produce happy kids.

Parenting is a roller coaster, but you can make it the enjoyable kind with fewer bumps and more smooth sections!

For more on this topic, check out the full Child Behavior collection

Help Your Child Be Better At Sports

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Help Your Child Be Better At Sports

Although not all children love sport, most will participate during their school years. Part of feeling confident in the sport is support from the people around them. Taking part in team sports is one of the most important ways your child can build confidence.

So, what other ways can you help your child be better at sports?

For more on this topic, check out the full Sports collection

Don’t overshadow

If your children have chosen to play the sport that you or your partner loved and were good at, remember that this is their turn. Let the experience of the sport be your child; although giving them tips is excellent – a lot of the firsts like big wins, significant losses, injuries and team issues are for them to go through.

With the proper support and no overshadowing what they are doing, they can talk to you about things and know that you won’t center yourself.

Communication

Children can only improve their performance through the right communication. It’s important that you know how to communicate with your child to inspire them, while also being able to give constructive feedback. Children meanwhile need to be taught how to accept criticism – and also not to let too much praise get to their head.

Making sure that your child’s coach is communicating with your child is important too. On top of providing feedback directly to your child, a good coach should relay information to you. Some coaches still use tools like WhatsApp, while others use more advanced communication tools such as this Teamlists app. However your coach chooses to communicate with you, make sure that they are doing it regularly and that they are willing to answer any questions you have.

Progress

If they become serious about the sport, you will be getting regular progress updates from their coach. You can check through their progress and see if there is anywhere that they can do with some extra help.

While an outside coach is not usually a welcome idea, there are many resources online that can help your child master a particular skill. From tackling and shooting to batting videos – you can find the best ways to help them make the progress they will be proud of.

Teamwork

Being part of a team is a great thing! It can teach us many life skills. But one of the most important might be that teams can have ups and downs. If one person is having issues in the team, the effect can be felt by all.

Part of great teamwork is taking responsibility for the decision they make, and taking responsibility can be challenging when the decision they make leads to a loss or something to unsettle the team.

Make sure that the benefits of teamwork are always something that you keep in the frame when talking about the sport.

Failure

Sports is one place where even when you give it your all, you might not get the result that you want. Failure is part of the sport, but not failure is really a failure. Instead, they are all places for great learning.

A loss presents the opportunity to improve how they play and reframe how they deal with failure. Rather than being angry or too sad about it, it’s an opportunity to build and move forward.

Support them as they learn to navigate things like loss in sports games or not getting picked for the team. It can be a great idea to keep a list of names of famous people that suffer losses – only to then go on to have great success.

Growth Mindset for Kids Free Printables

Self-reflection

If your child goes through a string of losses, it can become easy for them to say, ‘I’m not good enough’, or ‘the other team were just better’. Yet, this provides the perfect opportunity for some self-reflection. Understanding that they can look at their achievements, skills and progress and set goals to help them improve.

Here are some great tips for fostering great sportsmanship: Help Teens Have Better Sportsmanship.

For more on this topic, check out the full Sports collection

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Raising Strong and Resilient Kids: How to Give Your Child the Best Mental and Physical Development

In life, parenting is one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences for all. Each and every parent wants to give his child the best possible start in life, making sure that they grow up healthy, confident, and mentally strong. But how do we strike the right balance between screens and real life experiences, between strenuous demands for high academic achievement and play-time?

For more on this topic, check out the full Child Behavior collection

1. Movement is Life: Let Them Explore Their Physical Potential

Children are naturally wired to move. From the moment they take their first steps, they’re itching to run, jump, climb, and push their physical limits. Yet, modern lifestyles often restrict this natural inclination—too much sitting, structured activities with little free movement, and an increasing reliance on technology.

Encourage Free Play

Structured sports are great, but nothing beats the benefits of free play. Running around a park, climbing trees, or even making up their own games gives kids a unique kind of control over their environment. It enhances problem-solving skills, creativity, and body awareness—all crucial for long-term physical development.

Try Gymnastics or Bodyweight Exercises

Gymnastics is one of the best activities for young children because it builds flexibility, strength, and coordination. But if classes aren’t an option, simple bodyweight exercises like crawling, rolling, and balancing games at home can work just as well. The goal is to make the movement fun and diverse.

Make the Outdoors a Priority

Nature is an incredible playground. Hiking, swimming, and simply walking on uneven terrain build muscles that indoor spaces can’t replicate. Exposure to natural elements also strengthens the immune system and improves mental clarity.

2. Food is More Than Just Fuel—It’s Brain Power

Nutrition isn’t just about filling a plate with vegetables (though that helps). It’s about creating a positive relationship with food, where children understand what fuels their body and mind.

Ditch the “Clean Plate” Rule

Forcing kids to finish their food can backfire. Instead, allow them to recognize hunger and fullness cues. Give them control over their portions while offering a variety of nutrient-dense foods.

The Magic of Omega-3s and Gut Health

Healthy fats, particularly Omega-3s from fish, nuts, and seeds, support brain development. A well-functioning gut, powered by probiotics from yogurt, fermented foods, or even a simple homemade smoothie, plays a major role in emotional regulation.

Cooking Together

Children who participate in cooking are more likely to enjoy a variety of foods. Let them chop, stir, and taste. When they feel involved, they develop a healthier attitude toward eating.

3. Building Mental Resilience Starts Early

Mental health doesn’t mean protecting kids from stress—it means teaching them how to navigate it. Resilience isn’t something they wake up with one day; it’s built through everyday experiences.

Embrace “Productive Struggle”

Children need to struggle sometimes. It’s tempting to step in and solve their problems, but allowing them to experience small failures teaches problem-solving and resilience. Let them wrestle with a tough puzzle, figure out how to tie their shoes, or resolve a minor disagreement with a friend.

The Power of Boredom

Boredom is a breeding ground for creativity. In an age of instant entertainment, allowing kids to sit with boredom can lead to incredible imaginative breakthroughs. Instead of handing over a tablet, see what they come up with on their own.

Teach Emotional Literacy

Encourage children to name and express their emotions. Instead of saying, “Stop crying,” try, “I see you’re upset. Do you want to talk about it?” When they learn to understand their feelings, they grow into emotionally intelligent adults.

4. Social Intelligence is Just as Important as Academics

Interpersonal skills often take a backseat to academic performance, but they’re just as crucial for success. A child who can communicate effectively, empathize, and collaborate will thrive in any setting.

Teach the Art of Conversation

Simple habits like making eye contact, listening actively, and asking follow-up questions make a difference. Practice at home—whether during dinner or on car rides.

Encourage Multi-Age Interaction

Kids who only socialize with peers miss out on learning from older and younger children. Encourage friendships across different ages. Older kids can mentor, while younger ones bring fresh perspectives.

Model Empathy and Kindness

Children learn by watching. If they see you treating others with kindness, handling conflicts with patience, and showing empathy, they’ll naturally mirror those behaviors.

5. Sleep is Non-Negotiable

No amount of healthy food or exercise can replace the benefits of quality sleep. Yet, many children don’t get enough rest due to overstimulation, inconsistent bedtimes, or excessive screen time.

Set a Consistent Routine

A predictable bedtime routine—bath, story, lights out—signals to the brain that it’s time to rest. Keep it calm and avoid screens an hour before bed.

Make Sleep a Priority, Not a Punishment

Never use sleep as a consequence (“Go to bed early because you misbehaved”). Instead, make it something to look forward to by creating a cozy sleep environment with soft lighting and comfortable bedding.

Watch for Hidden Sleep Disruptors

If your child wakes up frequently or snores, check for possible causes like allergies, a stuffy room, or excessive sugar before bedtime. Small tweaks can make a big difference.

6. Let Them Fail, and Let Them Shine

Every child has unique strengths. Some will be naturally athletic, while others will thrive in creative or academic fields. The key is to provide opportunities without forcing them into a specific mold.

Expose, Don’t Overload

Expose your child to different activities, but don’t cram their schedule. Too many commitments lead to stress, not growth. Let them have downtime to process and explore their interests.

Praise Effort Over Outcome

Instead of saying, “You’re so smart,” try, “I love how hard you worked on that.” This shifts their mindset from needing to be naturally gifted to embracing effort and persistence.

Celebrate Who They Are

Not every child will be a star athlete or a math genius, and that’s okay. Celebrate their individuality and help them find their passions—whether it’s drawing, coding, or collecting bugs in the backyard.

Final Thoughts: The Long Term Is Key

Raising a well-adjusted kid isn’t about racing through milestones or hitting every target at lightning speed. It’s about nurturing a lifelong love for movement, curiosity, and emotional comfort. Kids don’t need to be perfect—they just need to keep going, keep trying, and keep learning, even when things don’t go as planned.

When you create a supportive environment—one where effort matters more than immediate success and mistakes are just part of the journey—you’re helping them grow stronger, both physically and mentally. You’re setting them up for a life where they can face challenges with confidence and find joy along the way.

And really, isn’t that what we all want for them? A life full of growth, resilience, and happiness? That’s the real win.

For more on this topic, check out the full Child Behavior collection