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Karissa Tunis

5 Tips to Buy a New Family Home

May 29, 2020

tips to buy a new family home

When you’re looking to buy a new family home, there are certain things you’ll want to consider from the get-go. You want it to be perfect for your growing family, so it’s vital that you’re as prepared as possible. Moving to a new house is never easy. But if you are organized ahead of time, it will help to ease the stress of the process.

To help guide you down the right path, here are 5 key factors you’ll want to consider when purchasing your future family home.


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


calculator

Ideal Budget for a Family Home

The first thing you should consider is what your ideal budget will be. Not everyone’s budget is the same, and you’ll want to ensure that you’re not spending more than you can realistically afford on the property. Think about what features are a necessity, and items that are wants.

Unfortunately, unless you have a large budget, you’ll have to compromise on some things. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t purchase a home that you can transform into a family-friendly haven. And remember, you can always add to it later on.

[ Read tips about Saving Money ]

 

Location for Buying a Home

Secondly, you’ll want to think about where you want your new family home to be. Realtors often say that the 3 most important things to consider when buying a new home is location, location, and location. So, when viewing homes, pay attention to how close it is to amenities, child care, schools, your office, etc. This is a factor that you should definitely prioritize. And by talking with your realtor, and taking a walk around the neighborhood, you’ll get an insight into whether it’s the right location for your family.

[ Read about the different Childcare Options ]

 

above view of a neighborhood

 

Safety of the Neighborhood for Your Family

You want your family to be as safe as possible. So before submitting an offer in on a house, make sure that you read up on what the safety is like in the area and whether it’s suitable for families. This is also something that you can get a feel for during your visit. Make sure that it’s the perfect environment for your children.

 

Turn Key or Project for Your Family Home

If you have a young family, then this question might be an easy one to answer. You’ll likely want a turn key property as you don’t have the time nor money to pay for a renovation project. But if you’re in no rush to move into your new family home, and you want to customize it so that it’s exactly right for you, then you might want to consider taking on a project.

At the end of the day, it’s up to you as to the type of property you opt for. But by weighing the different options in terms of costs and time, you’ll get a better idea for which one is a better fit for your family, your budget, and your current phase of life.

[ Get inspiration and tutorials for your next DIY project ]

 

two kids looking out a window

 

Planning for Your Family’s Home

This is something that can be considered alongside the above point. If you’re planning on expanding your family in the future and you’re looking for your forever home, make sure that you view houses that can accommodate this.

Whether this is looking for a home with one or more extra rooms, or that generally has more living space, it’s something that you’ll want to keep in mind from the start.

 

Buy a New Family Home

So, there you go! Those are just 5 of the key things that you should consider when buying your new family home. It’s a big decision that mustn’t be taken lightly. So speak to your realtor, and be sure that you’ve taken time to consider all of your options in advance. Happy House Hunting!

 

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

tips to buy a new family home

Filed Under: Home Buying, Moving Tips

The Science of Sunscreen – Helpful Facts for the Whole Family

May 29, 2020

the science of sunscreenWith summer upon us, even if it doesn’t quite seem like it, folks need to start thinking about sunscreen. Okay, let’s dispel that concept first. UVA rays are the same whether it’s January or August, so you should consider sunscreen as a year-round effort, just like brushing your teeth. Keep reading to learn more about the science of sunscreen!…

Read More

Filed Under: Summer Safety and Activities

The New School Year and Educational Technology

As a parent, you’ve probably noticed that school has changed a great deal since you were a child. Yes, your child still needs school supplies, and Staples might still be your best friend, but in many school districts there is a new supply item on the list – educational technology. From kindergarten through high school students are being handed screens and all sorts of educational technology to use for learning. Gone are the 20 lb. backpacks overloaded with textbooks. Instead they have sleek new iPads and laptops. It’s a gift, and a challenge, all at the same time….

Read More

Filed Under: Back To School

Beat the Heat – Indoor Summer Activities for Families

May 27, 2020

summer activity ideas for families

I would love to spend all summer out in the sunshine, but there are plenty of days that are just too hot! It isn’t healthy, safe, or fun to be out in boiling weather; but if you still need to get out of the house, here are some fun indoor summer activities!…

Read More

Filed Under: Summer Safety and Activities

Information about Private School and Christian Education

Information about Private School and Christian Education

Recently I did a Q & A with Lancaster Mennonite School. They are a private local school that is Christian affiliated and offers a traditional way of teaching. While they might not be local to you, I hope that you find their information informative. I also hope that you will consider checking out your own private and/or Christian affiliated options around you!

I grew up attending their schools from Kindergarten through grade 9 before switching to a public high school. My overall experience was very positive, and I left due to reasons unrelated to the school itself. Over the years they have continued to evolve and change, but many of their core principals and beliefs remain the same. Now with 5 campuses, and a growing attendance, I wanted to share with you the wonderful difference when choosing a private Mennonite school.


EDUCATION OPTIONS

This collection is created to shed light and answer questions surrounding different types of schooling and education. We are not trying to compare, but rather give you insight into the differences. Each family will need to make their own decision regarding what works best for their child and family. There are no “right” answers. It is an individual decision that needs to be made based on your student’s individual needs, learning style, abilities, and resources. Read below for more information about Private School and Christian Education.

Our goal of this Education Options collection is to allow you to dive a little deeper into the possibilities and opportunities around you!

Public | Private | Homeschool/Cyber | Montessori | Waldorf | Classical | Unschooling


Q:  What is the Private School education philosophy?

As a leading Christian school, Lancaster Mennonite School offers a comprehensive PreK-12 program designed to educate the whole person. The school warmly welcomes students and families desiring an education in a learning community shaped by the following distinctives: Christ-centered, educational excellence, peace and service, community, and faith-infused opportunities.

Lancaster Mennonite School promotes excellence in a student-centered environment that is age and ability-appropriate. They help to build skills not only for further education, but also for lifelong learning. Teachers provide academic support and challenge; while guiding and encouraging students to develop their gifts and discover their calling. The faith-infused educational program nurtures students’ spiritual life, curiosity, character, and sense of responsibility. The school values teachers who invite students to transformational growth within the context of the local, national, and global communities.

A diverse, multicultural environment that is welcoming, safe, trusting and respectful is an important component of the educational process. Lancaster Mennonite calls each student to personal faith, and practices that value peacemaking and service.

 

Q:  What are some similarities & differences in comparison to traditional schooling?

Most of the curriculum at most of the five campuses, from PreK-12, is traditional. The Locust Grove Campus offers a Spanish Immersion track starting in kindergarten. These classes are taught in Spanish so students learn the Spanish language along with the academic content. At the Lancaster Campus, Lancaster Mennonite Middle School uses a Project-Based Learning (PBL) model. These various academic disciplines are applied to a particular real-life project. Throughout the curriculum, an effort is made to include a Christ-centered perspective.

 

Q:  What does a day in the life of one of your students look like?

Aside from the innovative alternative programs offered at Locust Grove and Lancaster Mennonite Middle School, students experience a typical school day — on the surface. At a deeper level, they are involved in spontaneous prayer and applications of Scripture to situations that arise throughout the day. They also take part in Chapel services, Bible studies and Christian community life.

 

Q:  How can families find more information about this style of learning?

Complete descriptions of each campus are on the school’s extensive website: www.lancastermennonite.org. Interested parents are also encouraged to visit during one of the school many visitation opportunities listed on the website at www.lancastermennonite.org/admissions/visit.

 


A big thank you to Lancaster Mennonite’s Director of Marketing and Communications for taking the time to provide us with this information! We hope that you will give Lancaster Mennonite consideration when deciding upon your child’s education. And if you are not local to Lancaster County, we hope that you will keep an open mind and check out your local Private School and/or Christian School options.

Our goal of this Education Options collection is to allow you to dive a little deeper into the possibilities and opportunities around you!

Public | Private | Homeschool/Cyber | Montessori | Waldorf | Classical | Unschooling

Filed Under: Education Options

The Pros and Cons of Using Pinterest for Party Planning

pinterest for party planning

Should you be using Pinterest for party planning?

We’ve all seen the posts on social media of our friends’ birthday parties for their children. There are those moms who go all out, and there are those who keep it simple. But as long as you do something to acknowledge your child’s special day, you have succeeded!…

Read More

Filed Under: Party Planning

Party Planning Checklist – What to do 1 Month Leading Up to Party

If you are like me – then you LOVE a good party! Whether it is for a birthday, to celebrate an anniversary, around the holidays, ringing in the New Year, on the 4th of July, at the pool, or just hanging out with friends in your backyard. No matter the occasion (or how fancy), everyone loves a fun event! And the great news is that you do not need to be an expert party planner, or a professional event coordinator, to host a successful bash. With these free resources from Adore Them Parenting, you too will be able to plan your next festivity like a pro! Keep reading below for your free Party Planning Checklist.


This article is written by Karissa Tunis
For more on this topic, check out the full Party Planning collection


Party Planning Checklist

Below is a free party planning checklist printable calendar to help you stay organized. Print it out and hang it on the fridge. Or, keep it in the front of a folder or binder, and file behind it everything that you need to keep track of in order to plan your next extravaganza!

And scroll down for even more free party planning resources from a professional event planner. Enjoy, and happy planning 🙂


Free Party Planning Resources

Enjoy these additional Free Party Planning resources from Adore Them Parenting:

  • Take advantage of our food and beverage estimator to plan how much to serve at your next party. Ensure that you have enough refreshments for all of your guests at your next event!

  • Creating a party that is fun for adults AND kids is not the easiest thing. But here are tips that will help make your next party a huge success!

  • Take the stress out of planning your next event by following these party planning tips and reminders that every hostess should know directly from a professional event planner! And find out what her secret is to ending every party with a special thanks!

  • Learn how to write a party invitation that guests will appreciate.

For more on this topic, check out the full Party Planning collection


Co-Owner: Karissa Tunis

Karissa Tunis is the co-owner of both the parenting website Adore Them and the family event company Milestone Family Expos. Through these ventures she is able to share inspiring, heartfelt insight with large audiences within local communities and across the country! Her knack for all-things-organization allows her to balance content creation, brand partnerships, and event planning without losing sight of what she wants for her own family. Despite her busy schedule, Karissa also makes it a priority to spend quality time with her husband and three children. You will often find her volunteering at her children’s schools, cheering them on from the soccer sidelines, or enjoying the great sites of Charleston, SC with her family.

Contact: Karissa@AdoreThem.com


Filed Under: Party Planning

Weekly Meal Plan – Free Printable to Help Plan Your Family Menu

I don’t know about you, but keeping my family fed feels like one of the most daunting tasks. And it’s something that I have to do day after day, week after week. There are so many steps to keeping everyone fed that as soon as I get off track it is hard to catch back up! Keeping up with a weekly meal plan is so helpful. It only takes me a few minutes to fill in the blanks, and then I don’t have to think about it for the rest of the week! Download this free printable for yourself below…


Free Printable Weekly Meal Plans

weekly meal plan free printable


Recipes for a Weekly Meal Plan

This free meal planning printable is only a start… now you need to add some recipes!

Favorite Family Meals

  • Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
  • Greek Vinaigrette Pork Chops
  • Zucchini Fritters
  • Veggie Packed and Grain Free Lasagna
  • 20 Minute Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Weekly Planning and Time Management

Being a mom is very rewarding, and yet it is also the hardest job in life! Weather you are a stay at home mom, a work from home mom, a work out of the house mom, a single mom, a married mom, a caregiver, or any other combo; trying to juggle life and raise a little one has its challenges! But don’t get me wrong, I would not change it for the world! But I got to a point where I needed to find a better solution for how to organize my focus, which is why I began implementing this strategy that helps with time management for parents.

A few years ago, I tried to come up with a system that would allow it all to feel a bit more manageable. Through lots of trial and error, we have found a system that works for us in this current phase of life. We still don’t get it right 100% of the time. But I can honestly say that I feel better in control of my time now than I did a few years ago.

Continue Reading…

Filed Under: Printables, Recipes

30 Summer Activity Ideas for Kids (Free Printable)

May 26, 2020

summer activity ideas for kids

Summer is such a special time when you have kids! You get to explore new places, spend extra time together as a family, and enjoy the sunshine. But the summer months can fly by so quickly, and before we know it, we’re back into the school year routine. Get inspiration from these summer activity ideas for kids and make the most of your time together!

Summer Activity Ideas for Kids

This quick list of 30 fun things makes for a great summer bucket list for you and your family! It can be inspiration for a fun-filled staycation or simply a tool to refer back to when you hear, “Mom… I’m bored.”

  1. Take day trips to fun places in your area
  2. Work on brain puzzles like crosswords, sudoku, word searches, etc
  3. Buy a new family game
  4. Visit your local book stores
  5. Have an outdoor picnic
  6. Have fun with face paint
  7. Bake cookies for your neighbors
  8. Have a park play date with school friends
  9. Go on a short hike
  10. Find a local bike trail
  11. Fly a kite
  12. Build forts inside or outside
  13. Visit a local farmer’s market
  14. Catch lightning bugs, ants, beetles, or any other tiny insects from your backyard and examine parts of these with a help of a kids microscope
  15. Play sports in the backyard (soccer, baseball, volleyball, etc)
  16. Try tennis at a local court
  17. Watch one of your favorite childhood movies with your kids
  18. Build a LEGO village
  19. Write letters to each other, friends, or relatives
  20. Go to local garage sales
  21. Make friendship bracelets
  22. Do kitchen science experiments
  23. Create a music video
  24. Make a backyard obstacle course
  25. Make slime
  26. Go geo-caching (like a virtual treasure hunt)
  27. Have water fights
  28. Play pictionary
  29. Play old school games like jump rope, hop scotch, and hula hoop
  30. Make your own ice pops

For more on this topic, check out the full Summer Safety & Activities collection

Summer Bucket List for Kids


Daily Summer Checklist for Kids

Having a more relaxed schedule is one of the things that we look forward to the most about summer. This more relaxed approach is usually a wonderful break for all of us after a school year of busy-ness, but there are definitely downsides to it too…

This more laidback schedule can sometimes mean that nothing gets accomplished over the course of a day. We start to adopt an attitude of, “I’ll do it tomorrow,” but in the meantime we are falling into bad habits and way too much screen time.

So if you are looking for a good middle ground solution between no schedules and too much rigidity, you can download a free Daily Summer Checklist for Kids here.

Be sure to let us know what your favorite summer activities include! And we hope you have a safe and sunny few months!

And for more on this topic, check out the full Summer Safety & Activities collection


summer activity ideas for kids


Filed Under: Free Printables, Summer Safety and Activities

Resources for Moms Trying to Juggle It All

Resources for Moms

Mothers rarely get the true credit that they deserve. We do so much for our kids, communities, homes, friends, family, and jobs. Sometimes we forget that there are resources available to help us try to juggle it all. Keep reading for ideas and resources for moms to help make your life just a little bit easier.


For more on this topic, check out the full Tough Times collection


Moms Juggle A Lot

As we try to juggle working from home, teaching from home, being isolated at home, and trying to manage all of this without our normal luxuries to distract us; it can feel as though our world is about to implode. You might just be ready to give up…

However, we promise that you are not alone! In fact, you are actually surrounded by helpful resources and entire support systems even if you did not realize it.

If you’re a single mom, in particular, it can feel even harder because you don’t have the presence of a partner to help you. But after reading the suggestions below, we hope that any struggling mom will find the support that they need and deserve through these and other resources for moms!


Free Childcare Printable


Hire Some Help

This is something that might not be as easy to do last minute. However, there are still people out there who are offering their babysitting and nannying services. And if you can find someone to help you part-time, we know that it will make all the difference! Even for just a few hours a week to do your own thing, to work, or to get your house in order; it will make a huge difference.

If you really are at your wit’s end, then hiring help (even just temporary) is definitely something you should consider. It might even give you the freedom to take on more hours at work and earn more money. GTM.com is a website you should visit to make sure that you’re handling all of the payments correctly, since your new help will technically be employed by you.

Also, check out our Childcare Options collection for additional information on babysitters, nannies, and Au Pairs. Learn where to search for childcare help. How to check references. How to conduct interviews. And get tips for keeping everyone safe. Also, take advantage of our free printable childcare notes to help everyone stay organized with the children and their needs.

 

Social Media Support

Social media support is definitely something you need to explore if you are feeling lonely. And the best part is that finding local mom groups to communicate with is pretty easy with just a few simple searches!

We all know that our social life changed as soon as we had children, and this virus has made it even harder to maintain those friendships. However, there are so many mom groups out there on Facebook, or other social sites, where you can find new people to meet. It’s just nice to have someone to talk to who can relate to what you’re going through. And who knows, maybe you will even come out of this with a new circle of friends?!

Either way, use technology to your advantage. Use this time to connect with people that you might not have spoken to in awhile, and seek out some new connections as well. Call your Grandparents. Reach out to your cousins. FaceTime with your family members. Plan a Zoom call with a few old friends. And try to join some new mom groups online as well.

 

Try New Tricks

Finally, maybe you just need to pull some new tricks out of the bag, and find some new activities to keep your kids entertained. You might feel like you have tried every trick in the book. But luckily, children don’t get bored too easily, and there are plenty of things that you can still suggest. From fort building, to adventure walks, you don’t have to be bored in the house all of the time. Check out Staying Home guide for free activities, free project inspirations, new recipes to try, at home self-care, and so many other resources for moms!

 

If nothing else, please remember that this is just a phase. It might be a long one, but it will eventually pass. Life will return to normal, and you will be a much better, stronger, better balanced mama for making it through this!

 

Resources for Moms

Filed Under: Tough Times

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