Jades Random Thought's

Tag: funny

  • “The Free Gifts of Christmas: Smiles, Patience, and Laughs”

    “The Free Gifts of Christmas: Smiles, Patience, and Laughs”

    Holiday Emotions: The Good, the Bad, and the Hectic

    Hey guys! So, the holidays are sneaking up on us faster than a cat on a laser pointer, and with them comes a whole cocktail of emotions. There’s excitement, happiness, the kind of joy that makes you want to bake cookies at 2 a.m., and—let’s be honest—dread for some. For others, it’s a twinge of holiday blues, or that gentle reminder that your bank account might not be auditioning for Santa’s nice list this year. But fear not! Even if your wallet is whispering “maybe next year,” there’s still plenty of joy, laughter, and festive magic to be had—no credit card required.

    Christmas Beyond the Presents

    Christmas doesn’t always arrive with hot chocolate, twinkling lights, and perfectly wrapped presents for everyone. For some, it can stir up memories that make them a bit grumpy, cranky, or just want to hide under a blanket with a cup of tea and pretend it’s July. But here’s the secret: there’s more than one way to spread Christmas cheer without even saying “Merry Christmas.” Sometimes, all it takes is a little patience, a genuine smile, or a kind word to light up someone’s day. At the end of the day, Christmas is about so much more than the presents 🎁—it’s about connection, love, and the little moments that make life sparkle, even if your bank account is giving you the side-eye.

    Acts of Kindness: The True Spirit of the Season

    Christmas is really about reaching out—helping your neighbors, showing compassion, and remembering that for some, this season can come with heavy memories. Maybe it’s the loss of a loved one or the reminder that money is tighter than ever. Trust me, we’ve all felt that pinch at some point. Life has gotten expensive, and Christmas can feel like it’s holding up a mirror to our budgets. But here’s the thing: even when the season stings a little, a small act of kindness—checking in on someone, sharing a smile, or just listening—can turn that sting into a little sparkle. Because at its heart, Christmas isn’t about how much we spend—it’s about how much we care.

    Finding Joy in Chaos

    Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m not trying to hate on Christmas or downplay it. It’s easy to get swept up in the chaos of hunting for that “perfect deal” or lost in your own little bubble of stress and to-do lists. But here’s a thought: you can give someone the most meaningful present of all, and it won’t cost a single penny. Being kind, patient, and understanding—just being a decent human—can light up someone’s holiday more than any shiny bow or fancy gadget ever could. Sometimes, the best gifts really are free. Who knows you might find a little joy in doing so.

    Remember What Really Matters

    Your kindness and understanding might just be the only “gift” someone receives this Christmas season. And the best part? It doesn’t cost a single thing to be decent. A smile, a listening ear, or a little patience can leave a bigger mark on someone’s heart than any store-bought present ever could. By showing a little compassion, you’re not just brightening their holiday—you’re making a real, positive impact in their life.


    So yes, the holidays can be stressful, expensive, and sometimes downright emotional. You might feel pulled in a hundred directions—shopping, decorating, baking, pretending to like Aunt Carol’s fruitcake—but remember this: the real magic of Christmas isn’t wrapped in shiny paper or tied with a bow. It’s in the laughter shared over burnt cookies, the patience we show when someone cuts us off in a parking lot full of last-minute shoppers, and the little acts of kindness that remind people they are seen and valued.

    And let’s be real—sometimes the best way to survive the holiday chaos is to embrace the ridiculous. Wear that ugly sweater proudly, sing off-key carols in the shower, or give your dog a tiny present just to see their tail wag. Joy doesn’t have to be perfect, and neither do you. Even small, silly moments count as magic—and they often make the biggest memories.

    So this holiday season, give yourself permission to breathe, laugh, and focus on the things that truly matter. Be patient. Be kind. Be human. And if all else fails, remember: cookies count as an emotional support system, hot chocolate is basically a hug in a mug, and your sense of humor is the best gift you can give (and receive!).

    Here’s to a Christmas that’s full of warmth, laughter, and those little sparkly moments that don’t cost a thing—but mean everything. 🎄✨

    Remember, the best gifts don’t come in boxes or with price tags—they come in smiles, kindness, patience, and maybe a few cookies. So go ahead, sprinkle a little joy wherever you can, laugh at the chaos, and embrace the perfectly imperfect holiday moments.

    Until next time, have a blessed day.

    Thought of the Day:

    What’s one small act of kindness you’re planning this holiday? Share in the comments!

    Before you go…
    Have you peeked into Jade’s Nook yet? It’s the little corner of my blog where digital goodies live—printable’s, trackers, lists, and other things that make life slightly less chaotic. Go take a look… your future self might actually high-five you.

    Psst… Wanna peek inside the Nook?

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  • Benched… Until Now

    Benched… Until Now

    I find it hilarious that I can hype up a sad friend like I’m their own personal life coach — motivational speeches, pep talks, the whole deal. I’m basically the unofficial cheerleader for everyone I know (minus the pom-poms, though I could totally rock them). But the second my own storm rolls in? I vanish like a magician. Poof. I isolate, I withdraw, I mentally crawl under a blanket fort of doom… but unfortunately, the electric company still expects their money. Apparently, you can’t pay bills with emotional shutdowns.

    Why

    Why is that? Why are we so quick to turn into motivational speakers for our friends and family? We rush in with hugs, pep talks, and “you got this!” energy like we’re auditioning for a feel-good movie montage. We make sure they know they aren’t alone, help them see their mountain is more like a speed bump, and reassure them that life will eventually chill out. Now that I’m in my 30s, I finally get why I love encouraging others — because I know exactly what it’s like to feel alone. I’ve been there, thinking no one cared what I was going through. Spoiler alert: it was all in my head. Just me, lying to myself so I could throw a dramatic party for one — BYOT (Bring Your Own Tissues) — also known as the legendary pity party. 🎉

    Learning something new

    I had to learn to be my own cheerleader — no crowd, no halftime show, just me yelling “Go, team… me!” in the mirror. The hardest part was getting used to hearing my own voice talk back, like some awkward motivational speaker who won’t leave. Growing up, I was told that talking to yourself was a one-way ticket to “crazy town,” but then I read it’s actually a sign of intelligence — so now I’m basically a genius having deep conversations with myself in the cereal aisle. Positive breeds positive, so I’m out here breeding optimism like it’s a full-time job. If you want to know more about what to focus on (or just need permission to talk to yourself in public), check out the link below:
    what-you-going-to-choose-to-focus-on/

    Give yourself self a break

    The question I keep accidentally asking myself (usually while brushing my teeth or staring into the fridge like it might spill life’s secrets) is: why don’t we show ourselves more love? Seriously. We’ll comfort a crying stranger online, leave a string of heart emojis like we’re part of a professional hype squad, but give ourselves a simple “you got this” in the mirror and suddenly it feels like we’re performing some weird, self-inflicted dare.

    Meanwhile, we’re Olympic-level experts at believing the nonsense our brains throw at us. “You’re alone. Nobody cares. You didn’t measure up.” And what’s this gold standard we’re supposed to meet? Probably invented by some person lounging in Cheeto dust–covered pajamas, scrolling TikTok while eating ice cream straight from the carton.

    Here’s the kicker: everyone else gets our compassion, our encouragement, our pep talks… but us? We get the “you’re failing” commentary on repeat. It’s ridiculous, honestly. So maybe it’s time to give ourselves the same hype we give everyone else. Because if a stranger online deserves a heart emoji, the least we can do is throw one at ourselves—preferably while eating the chocolate we totally earned.

    Learning to be your own cheerleader is a survival skill these days. The moment you stop waiting for other people to hype you up, you suddenly become emotionally ripped — like you just bench-pressed your own self-esteem. And thank goodness struggles don’t last forever, because if they did, we’d all be living in one giant soap opera. I read somewhere that maybe God’s plan isn’t to remove the storm but to teach you how to dance in it — which is cute until you realize you have two left feet and it’s a thunderstorm.

    Time to Go—Self-Love Doesn’t Schedule Itself

    Don’t get me wrong, cheering on your friends and family is basically a full-time Olympic sport—and hey, someone has to hand out the gold medals of encouragement. But don’t forget to save some of that pep-talk energy for yourself when life decides to throw a flaming pineapple at your stress levels. We’re human, which means bad days are basically part of the job description. So go ahead, give yourself a little high-five in the mirror, even if it feels weird—it’s cheaper than therapy and slightly less messy than chocolate. This is where I leave you. Until we meet again have a blessed day.

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  • 5 Ways to Handle Stress Like You Didn’t Just Google: How to Handle Stress.

    5 Ways to Handle Stress Like You Didn’t Just Google: How to Handle Stress.

    Hey there, how are you guys doing today? Stressed? Same. I can’t even count how many times I’ve asked Google “how do I handle stress” — at this point, Google probably sighs before answering me. And of course, it gives me the same basic tips every single time: take a walk, breathe deeply, exercise, listen to  music. (Sure, the music works… until your kids start arguing in the background or your neighbor decides today’s the day to mow their lawn at 7 am on a Saturday morning). I’m just trying to bring something a little different to the therapy table. (Yes, pun intended. And no, I’m not apologizing for it.

    Write anything that comes to your mind

    Brain Dumping

    I’m sure at some point, while panicking and Googling “stress relief,” you came across the advice to journal your emotions. Now, I don’t know about you, but when I’m stressed, the last thing I care about is whether my sentences are complete or if I’m abusing commas like they owe me money. And journaling? Please. It just turns into one long rant that would make zero sense to anyone else—but hey, that’s actually the point. That’s what I like to call a good ol’ brain dump

    You just grab a notebook, scrap paper, a napkin—literally anything—and scribble down every single thing that’s stressing you out. Don’t worry about making it neat or poetic; this isn’t English class, and nobody’s grading you. It doesn’t matter if your handwriting looks like a toddler’s or if halfway through you give up and start doodling angry stick figures stabbing “Monday” with tiny pitchforks. (Honestly, that’s encouraged.) When you’re done—and no, it probably won’t be 20 pages long, but hey, if you’re that stressed, go off—here’s the dramatic part: you burn it. Safely, of course. I’m not trying to have you explaining to the fire department that your therapist told you to “light your problems on fire” like some emotional arsonist.

    Why does this actually help? I’m glad you asked. The scribbling part is basically a stress detox for your brain. You dump the junk out of your head and onto paper so it stops ping-ponging around in there. And the burning part? That’s the fun bit—it’s like firing your problems. Literally. It’s your own mini “you’re fired” moment, except instead of a toxic coworker, it’s your anxiety going up in smoke. Plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about watching those little paper worries curl up and disappear like they were never there. It’s the cheapest therapy session you’ll ever have.

    Shower Therapy

    Cold and Warm Contrasts Showers.

    Anyone who’s desperate to deal with stress will try just about anything once. Cold showers? Yeah… it’s not exactly my first pick for stress relief. In fact, it feels like it should cause more stress than it fixes 😅. But stick with me here because, apparently, science knows better than my brain. The trick is simple: at the end of your shower, switch the water to cold for 30 seconds, then back to warm. That’s it. Thirty seconds. You can survive that.

    Why does it work? Well, for starters, your body releases endorphins—basically little happiness messengers running around your system, and doing high-fives inside your brain. Then, it restarts your fight-or-flight response like a mini pep talk for your nervous system. Who knew a bit of icy water could tell your body, “You’ve got this!” It’s like a tiny boot camp for your stress levels, minus the sweating and awkward gym shorts.

    Small Victory’s

    Create a Victory Jar

    This one takes a tiny bit of effort, but I promise it’s worth it—and by “tiny bit,” I mean so small you can do it while binge-watching Netflix. It’s basically a little pick-me-up in a jar. Grab a mason jar (or any random glass jar you have lying around that isn’t already holding spaghetti sauce), a pad of sticky notes, and a pencil. Keep them together so they’re easy to grab.

    Every time you do something good—no matter how tiny or ridiculous—write it on a sticky note and toss it in the jar. Did your kids survive the day without setting the house on fire? Stick it in the jar. Did you somehow get through a mountain of laundry without crying? Jar it. Did you resist eating the entire carton of ice cream in one sitting? Definitely jar it. Seriously, there are no rules here. Even “I didn’t hit snooze six times this morning” counts.

    Then, when life decides to throw a surprise tantrum your way, you open the jar and remember: hey, I have done some good stuff. Little victories add up, and this jar becomes a weirdly satisfying little trophy case of “look at me being a human!” It’s cheap, it’s silly, and it works. Plus, it’s fun to shake the jar and imagine it rattling with all your tiny but mighty accomplishments.

    Fake Laugh

    Have you ever had to “fake it till you make it”? Yeah, me too. Sometimes life is less “thriving adult” and more “confused raccoon with a Wi-Fi bill.” But here’s the thing—your brain is basically that gullible friend who will believe almost anything you tell it. If you trick it into thinking you’re having a good time, it actually releases dopamine, which is like your brain’s little party favor.

    That’s why people say laughter is medicine—it’s basically your body’s way of handing you a free antidepressant without the side effects or pharmacy line. And the bonus? While you’re busy cracking up (even if it’s at your own bad jokes, memes, or that time you texted your boss instead of your best friend), your cortisol—the stress hormone—starts taking a backseat. Slowly, but surely, your stress levels come down. It’s like giving your brain a bubble bath while you’re just sitting there giggling at cat videos.

    Create a Worry Box

    While we’re out here stressing like a cat who just caught a glimpse of its own shadow (or worse, a cucumber), we still secretly want to be creative and in control. So here’s a little trick: get yourself a jar. Or, if you’re feeling extra Pinterest-y, go ahead and make a whole box—just don’t let it turn into a “craft project” that stresses you out even more. The idea is simple: write down whatever is gnawing at your brain, fold it up like a tiny paper burrito of worry, and toss it into the jar or box. Why does this help?

    First, you don’t have to keep repeating your worries like a broken record player from the ’90s. Second, it’s like giving your brain a hall pass that says, “Hey, it’s okay, I put that problem on timeout.”I just gave you 5 things you can do to help with your stress, and let’s be real—none of them are magic wands (though honestly, if Amazon ever starts selling those, I’m buying in bulk).

    And honestly, sometimes we just need to trick our own minds into chilling out. Because let’s face it—worrying is part of being human. We all do it. But the trick is not letting it set up camp, start a bonfire, and roast marshmallows in your head. Life is way too short to let stress hog all the snacks at your mental party.

    Wrapping Things Up

    It’s not easy to admit when you’re overwhelmed, and it’s definitely not easy to ask for help 😕. But whether you ended up here because you searched “how to handle stress” on Google, or because you accidentally typed “why am I like this” and landed on a rabbit hole of life advice, the point is… you took the first step. And that’s huge. Like, give yourself a cookie huge.

    The truth is, everyone has bad days. Some people just get really good at hiding it behind fake smiles, sarcasm, or pretending their third iced coffee of the day is just “a little treat.” Others are probably reading posts like this one, nodding along like “yep, totally got my life together now,” when really they’re also one traffic jam away from losing it. And that’s normal. Stress doesn’t care how strong you are—it’ll show up uninvited like that one neighbor who always wants to “borrow” something but never gives it back. The trick is finding ways to deal with it before it eats up all your energy.

    So hey, whether this post helps you laugh, breathe, or at least remember that you’re not the only one secretly Googling your way through life—mission accomplished. And if nothing else, now you know at least one other person (hi, me 👋) is also winging it and trying to figure it out along the way. 😅 Well, I think my work here is done, so until next time, have a blessed day.

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  • Feel the Difference, Natural Make’s You Feel Part 2

    Feel the Difference, Natural Make’s You Feel Part 2

    Down the Rabbit Hole

    “Hey guys! First off, sorry it took me forever to post part 2 of my journey into the natural world. (I know, I sound like a total flower child from the 70s — cue the peace signs and bell bottoms.) Pretty sure I have ADHD — not officially diagnosed, but if you’ve ever chased your own thoughts like they’re squirrels, you get it. Better late than never, though, right?

    If you missed part one — Feel the Difference: Natural Makes You Feel, Part 1 — go check it out first, or don’t, and just be completely confused. Your choice. Anyway, without further ado (or should I say ‘further to-do list,’ because I probably lost that too), let’s get into it!”

    “Finding out about natural remedies sent me straight down a rabbit hole — and not just any rabbit hole, but a full-on Alice in Wonderland situation. Suddenly, I was in a whole new world where herbs could fix everything from coughs and allergies to  why did I eat that?’ stomachache. And then I discovered tinctures, which apparently are like little potion bottles that help kick extra mucus out of your body — basically a magical eviction notice for phlegm. (What’s a tincture, you ask? Don’t worry, we’ll get into that later. Spoiler alert: it does not involve witches.

    I bought so many books on natural remedies, my bookshelf is now the hippie aisle at Whole Foods. Plus, I binged hours of YouTube and TikTok videos — because obviously, if you watch enough TikToks, you basically become a certified herbalist.

    But before we dive into my journey, let me throw in a little disclaimer: I have nothing against modern medicine (shoutout to doctors, you guys are doing great), and I am absolutely not a doctor. So, please use caution before trying anything you see here. Talk to your doctor first — especially if you’re already taking medication. The goal here is to feel better, not accidentally turn yourself into a science experiment.”

    My Why

    I’m a deep thinker — some might even call it a flaw, but I prefer to think of it as a full-time unpaid job. My most recent deep thought was this: why do doctors seem more interested in playing whack-a-mole with my symptoms instead of figuring out why those moles keep popping up? Half the time, the medication they prescribe comes with its own bonus round of symptoms — like a terrible BOGO sale. So, I decided to see if I could tackle the root cause of my ailments myself. Ideally, something that wouldn’t turn my body into a chemistry experiment or make me sprout an extra eyebrow.”

    Photo By: drgeorgejceremuga

    What Herbs Did I Start With?

    Mullein

    “I’m still figuring out which herbs go with which ailments — it’s basically like learning to cook, except instead of burning dinner, you risk accidentally detoxing your soul. There are so many herbs out there, it’s like Pokémon — gotta try ‘em all. I’m also learning when and how to take them, because apparently timing matters (who knew herbs had a schedule?). But when you find something that works, it’s like hitting the natural-health jackpot.

    Take mullein, for example. I found out it’s great for clearing mucus — like a bouncer for your lungs. It can soothe a sore throat, calm a cough, and even help bronchitis. So you better believe I stocked up like I was preparing for the mucus apocalypse. My husband has sleep apnea and refuses to wear his mask, so every night I’m basically a superhero — minus the cape — saving his life. But since he’s been taking mullein, he no longer sounds like a freight train barreling through our bedroom at 2 AM. He actually sleeps now, and so do I! We found some mullein capsules on Amazon, but you can also take it as a tea if you want to feel fancy and herbalisticly.

    Photo By: thenaturehill43

    Rodiola Rosa

    “So, let me tell you how I discovered this little gem. Back in 2023 (I think… my memory is like Swiss cheese, so don’t quote me), I got diagnosed with a tick disorder — basically the adult version of Tourette’s. Some days I would tick 40 to 60 times, which is basically a full workout, minus the gym membership. By 7 PM, I was so wiped out I was practically in bed with the senior citizens at the early bird special.

    So, I decided to drown my body in stress-free supplements — if stress was the enemy, I was going to bury it in herbs. I still tick now and then, but thanks to Rhodiola, it’s way less. Seriously, this little root has been a game-changer. That said, don’t take my word as gospel — every case is different, so go Google it and pretend to be your own doctor for a minute.

    Oh, and another reason I love Rhodiola? My memory is terrible. We’re talking ‘walk into a room and forget why I’m there’ levels of terrible. Some days I swear I’ve got the brain of an 80-year-old with a remote control that only works half the time. But Rhodiola has been helping me focus, remember stuff, and even keep my blood sugar and heart in check — which is great, because I need that heart healthy enough to survive my own stress levels.”

    Magnesium Spray

    I got into this whole thing because I just wanted to sleep like a normal human for once. Then I learned that 75% of Americans are deficient in magnesium. Seventy-five percent! That’s basically all of us except the one guy who eats kale voluntarily. And get this — we only absorb 20% of the magnesium we take in pill form. Where does the other 80% go? Apparently, our stomach acid just obliterates it. Rude.

    So, I did what any modern adult does when faced with a health crisis — I bought all the ingredients on Amazon and made my own magnesium spray. Fun fact: if it itches when you spray it on, you’re deficient. Guess who was very, very deficient? 🙋‍♀️ Let’s just say my skin was doing the cha-cha. Luckily, the itching fades… until you do it again. Don’t worry as soon as your body drinks up all the magnesium it needs the itching will stop.

    But it’s worth it because magnesium is a total overachiever — it helps you sleep 😴, relaxes your muscles 🧘‍♀️, keeps your joints happy, and even helps with headaches. Just spritz it on your forehead for the headache

    And if you dont have a headache you wanna spray it on your feet every night and wait for the magic. Sure, you look a little crazy spraying yourself like a plant, but hey — pain-free is pain-free.

    Photo By: patmastin

    What is a Tincture

    A tincture is basically herbs + 80-proof alcohol having a long spa day together. You just let them hang out for a while, then strain it, and boom — you’ve got a super-potent herbal potion that smells like it could either heal you or knock you flat. You can add it to tea if you want to pretend you’re classy (that’s what I do), or you can take it straight up like a total herbal gangster. And that, my friends, is a tincture in a nutshell — or should I say, in a shot glass. 🥂

    Photo By: GreenHealingCraft

    Wrapping Things Up

    These herbs actually worked for me and my family — which was shocking, because usually, when I try “natural remedies,” I end up just smelling like a salad. This whole natural journey has really opened my eyes (and my sinuses). Natural stuff is way easier on my body, and honestly, I feel kind of fancy about it now.

    But let’s be clear — I am not a master herbalist. I’m more of a “Google it and hope for the best” kind of person. I’m constantly learning about new herbs for different ailments, like a slightly chaotic wizard in training. And I’m all about things being natural — not just herbs, but meat straight from the butcher (because apparently, meat does not grow in the freezer section?) and even growing my own garden. Making small healthy changes really does make a difference… Plus, it makes me feel like I belong on one of those cozy farm-life Instagram accounts. 🌱🐓 Well, that will do it for now. I hope you enjoyed this post.  Until we meet again, have a blessed day

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  • “My Blogging Journey So Far: A Beautiful Disaster”

    “My Blogging Journey So Far: A Beautiful Disaster”

    First of all, I want to give a huge shoutout to Taylor Standford. Honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am today without her guidance — and by “where I am today,” I mean sitting here writing this paragraph instead of binge-watching reality TV. Who is Taylor Standford? Glad you asked. She’s basically the blog whisperer — the Yoda of blogging, but taller and with way better Instagram aesthetics. She helps people start blogs and then gently shoves them out of the nest so they can fly on their own (or at least awkwardly flap their wings until they get the hang of it). If you’ve ever dreamed of sharing your wisdom, your recipes, or your cat’s daily schedule with the internet, click the link below and begin your blog journey.

    https://taylorstanford.com/blog/how-to-create-a-blog

    Choosing a Blog Name

    This blogging journey has been a wild ride, let me tell you! Tech-savvy? Ha! I once tried to reboot my computer and accidentally made it take a nap for three hours. Coming up with a name for my blog? Pure chaos. I didn’t want to trap myself into one topic—like “Back to Our Roots,” which sounds cool until you realize it basically forces you to become an amateur herbalist and beauty guru overnight. So, I went with Jade’s Random Thoughts—because why limit myself? Now I can post about anything from why my cat judges me to my secret talent for burning toast. The possibilities are endless… and slightly terrifying.

    How It Is Going

    Although starting this blog wasn’t exactly the wild, confetti-filled party I had imagined, I’m hanging in there. Sure, I wish I had a few more subscribers—maybe even enough to start a small cult of newsletter enthusiasts—but hey, patience is a virtue, right? Blogging isn’t hard; figuring out what people actually want to read? That’s the real brain-bending, hair-pulling puzzle. In just one month, I’ve racked up 1,116 views—which is mind-blowing! I mean, someone out there actually cares what I ramble about. My goal is simple: write posts that make you go, “Ah, finally! Someone else has survived the chaos of life and lived to tell the tale!” Because let’s face it, we’re all human, scrolling through life online, thinking, “Okay…so what did you do to fix this mess?” And honestly, I need all the help I can get.

    What I Would Have Done Differently

    Well, I wish I had started this journey when I was younger—back when my brain could actually absorb the magical secrets of blogging without feeling like it was learning rocket science. Poor Taylor, bless her, has been my blogging lifeline, patiently answering my…let’s call them “quirky” questions. Honestly, even if my blog magically stops getting views tomorrow, I’m thrilled because 1,116 people have peeked at my little corner of the internet—and that’s basically a small army in blog-world. So, what would I do differently? At this point, not much…unless someone invents a “blogging cheat code” in the next month. It’s only been a little over a month, and I’m sure my future self will be facepalming over all the stuff I’ll learn along the way.

    Wrapping it Up

    If you’ve made it this far, wow—thank you! I appreciate you more than coffee on a Monday morning. So, here’s my journey so far: I still have most of my hair 🙃😅, which is a win in my book. I know this post is a bit shorter than my usual novel-length rants, but I’m not into filler content—I like to get straight to the point, like a ninja with a keyboard. Has this blogging experience been amazing…or a total disaster? I’ll say I’m somewhere in the middle 😆…kidding! So far, it’s been a good ride, going about as well as a slightly tipsy tightrope walker might expect. Any new adventure comes with its highs, its “wow, I’m a genius” moments, and its lows, AKA “what the heck was I thinking?” Moments. But really, it’s all about the adventure along the way. So until next time, go forth and have a blessed day…or at least a day that doesn’t make you want to pull your hair out.

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  • How To Be Your Own Best Friend

    How To Be Your Own Best Friend

    Will You Be Your Friend

    I don’t know about you, but I didn’t exactly like myself for a long time (still working on it — self-love is apparently a lifetime subscription, not a free trial). In my 20s, I wanted everyone to like me, which is hilarious now because that’s literally impossible. You can be the juiciest peach in the world, and someone out there is still going to hate peaches. Realizing that was a tough pill to swallow… and not one of those tiny easy-to-swallow pills, either — I’m talking the horse-sized vitamin kind you have to psych yourself up for.

    But here’s the thing — there are people out there who will absolutely treasure you, but first you’ve got to treasure yourself. And let me tell you, I was not a fan of my own company at first. Now that I’m in my 30s, though, I actually like hanging out with myself — which is convenient because I’m kind of stuck with me forever.

    So, here I am, trying something new and throwing myself into the mysterious world of blogging. (How am I doing? Please clap.) At the end of the day, building a relationship with yourself is a lot like starting a new friendship — there’s a little awkward small talk at first (“So, uh… what do you like to do for fun?”), but before long, you realize you’re actually pretty great to be around.

    So here’s the big question: will you accept your own friend request? (I promise you won’t regret it!

    Author: herintrovertedlife

    What is Self -Love

    • Embrace self-compassion: replace harsh inner criticism voice with a loving voice.
    • Set healthy boundaries: Learn to say “no” because your time and energy is important.
    • Practice positive self talk: Learn to speak to yourself with love and encouragement but most of all support.
    • Engage in self: Eating well, exercising, reading a book or spending time in nature.
    • Accepting yourself unconditionally: Learn to accept your weaknesses and strengths and understand your worth is not tied to achieving perfection or meeting what others think.
    • Pursue your own goals: Love yourself enough to learn new skills, and try new activities that bring you happiness.

    Create a Bond with Yourself

    When I buy gifts for my friends, I get ridiculously excited to give them — like, I’m basically a golden retriever waiting for them to open it. And the more we hang out with our friends, the stronger that bond grows, right? Well, the same thing goes for ourselves. When we take time to spoil ourselves — whether that’s with a fancy coffee, a quiet night in, or just saying “no” to something we don’t want to do — we start to actually like ourselves a little more.

    The trick is to learn how to self-analyze without turning into your own harshest critic. Ask yourself questions: “What actually makes me happy?” “What do I not love about myself — and can I fix it, or just accept it?” And then — here’s the important part — answer yourself the same way you would if you were talking to a friend you care about. Yes, that means having an actual conversation with yourself. (Pro tip: wait until you’re alone, or people might start asking if you’re okay. Or just own it — you’re deep, not weird.)

    Author: elsvry

    Speak to Yourself with Kindness

    If you’re a good friend, you’re not just going to sit there and nod when your friend starts talking bad about themselves. No way — you’re going to look at them like they just said aliens built the pyramids and give them a full-on pep talk. That’s what good friends do. Well, guess what? You’ve got to be that same kind of friend to yourself. Yep, it’s time to give yourself a pep talk — out loud if you have to. (Bonus points if you do it in front of a mirror. Extra bonus points if you use a dramatic superhero voice.)

    Because deep, deep down, you know that little voice in your head talking trash isn’t telling the truth. And if some of it is true? Cool — that’s where you make a game plan. For example: “You say I’m fat?” Okay, what can we do about it? Go for a 20-minute walk after dinner, dance around the living room like no one’s watching, or join a gym and get yourself a support squad. The point isn’t just to change your body — it’s to change how you feel about you.

    Practicing self-kindness doesn’t have to be all bubble baths and scented candles (though those are great, too). It can be as simple as taking baby steps to improve your situation and cheering yourself on along the way. Before you know it, you’ll stop being just your harshest critic and start being your own biggest hype-person.

    Author: PositiveThinkingforBeginners

    Loyal to Yourself

    When you have a close friend you spend a lot of time with, you build this unspoken alliance — like a secret “Bestie Avengers” pact. You cheer them on, support their wild life decisions (even the questionable ones), and help them through the rough stuff. Well, guess what? You’ve got to do the exact same thing with yourself.

    If you’ve got toxic people around you, love yourself enough to say “Nope, not today!” and slowly swap them out for people who lift you up instead of drag you down. (Think of it like spring cleaning, but for your social circle.) Once you do that, you’ll notice your boundaries start popping up — kind of like those little fences in a cute garden. And then? Boom. Confidence starts to grow.

    And when that confidence kicks in, those snarky comments or rude opinions won’t knock you over anymore. You won’t be ducking your head or trying to disappear into the wallpaper — because you actually like yourself. You’ve built a friendship with yourself, and you know what’s true about you and what’s just background noise.

    You are a beautiful person — now all you need to do is grab that mirror, give yourself a wink, and say, “Dang, we look good.”

    Author: boredpanda

    That is All for Now

    And there you have it — once you actually get to know yourself, your whole focus does a 180. Suddenly you’re glowing from the inside out like you swallowed a lightbulb (don’t actually do that). People will notice and probably start asking if you’re secretly in love or joined a fancy spa membership.

    Don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself if you have to — Beyoncé does it every album cycle, and look how well that’s working out for her. You are absolutely worth it. Just please, don’t be the person who complains about everything but does nothing to change it. We all know that person, and they’re exhausting.

    You are a strong, unique, beautiful human — like a rare collectible action figure but way cooler. Just be patient with yourself, because Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a solid relationship with yourself. (Although Rome also didn’t have Netflix, so maybe you can get there faster.)

    Anyway, I hope this pep talk has helped someone today. Stay fabulous, drink some water, and don’t forget you are the main character in your story. Until we meet again, have a blessed day.

    “Enjoyed this post? Fuel my next one with a $2 coffee — caffeine = content!”

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  • The Day Starts Here! Routine

    The Day Starts Here! Routine

    How It Started

    I used to be that mom who would wake up the kids, and I would rush them and yell, “Come on, we going to be late.”

    I don’t know what made me self reflect. Like this isn’t working. I didn’t want to be that mom. Also, it’s not good for the kids frame of mind to be in when they went to school.

    My kids must have been about 6,4, and 2. Also the age when I changed my parenting habits.  But that’s a story for another time. I came up with a plan that might just help everyone keep their sanity.

    I decided to try something  new. Which took effort on my part because I was a young mom who loved her sleep. Every day at 6 am, I would go into each one of  my children’s rooms and turn on the light to say “good morning” and nothing else.

    Author: izzy_olivv

    Then I would go start breakfast or perhaps pick out their outfit for the day if they didn’t do so the previous night. I would also take this time to make sure my stuff is ready for the day.

    Author: laurmcbrideblog

    They needed to wake up at 6:30 am, so about 6:20 am. I would go back to their rooms and say 10 min we need to get up. This is usually when they would slowly crawl out of their beds and start getting dressed. They didn’t get grumpy with me, I didn’t have to raise my voice it was the smoothest our mornings have gone in a while I was like this could work.

    Author: fineartstar

    This was our routine every school year. Yes, I had to wake up an extra 30 minutes every morning, but the harmony in the mornings were worth it.

    Hows It Going

    Now fast forward to their teen years. My kids sleep upstairs now. I wasn’t about to yell up the stairs. Besides who likes getting yelled at. Teens can be stubborn about their sleep so this mama got creative. Why should I wear out my delicate voice when I can use doorbells to get the job done.

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    I bought 3 wireless door bells 🔔 https://amzn.to/48bJeYq (from Amazon of course.)I put the receivers in their rooms and the button-down stairs. This not only helped to give them the extra encouragement to get out of bed. It also doubled as a way to get my child to come down stairs if I needed them.

    Although it’s not a perfect system, it does help keep the harmony still happening in the mornings 😀. I hope you enjoyed this post. Until next time, have a blessed day. Don’t forget to hit the like button.

    6. “Your $2 coffee = my motivation to keep typing instead of napping. Thank you in advance!”

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  • Find the Beautiful Side in You

    Find the Beautiful Side in You

    Hey friends, how was your week? Mine was… let’s just say “adventurous.” I spent two days in bed fighting off some mysterious bug that turned my nose into Rudolph’s understudy. Not exactly my most glamorous look, trust me. But lying there, rocking the sick-day aesthetic (pajamas, tissues everywhere, hair that could scare small children), got me thinking about what actually makes a person feel beautiful.

    Because honestly, everyone deserves to feel beautiful — even when they look like they just survived a zombie apocalypse. And with the way models are photoshopped these days, it’s no wonder we sometimes feel like “beautiful” is some secret club we’re not invited to.

    I’m going to warn you, ⚠️  this post is a little longer than usual. But I think  it is well needed. After all, Beauty takes time. So does talking about it.

    Author:Marvin Malmis Ponce

    Clothing

    I know when I put on a pretty dress, I instantly feel like a Disney princess — until I take it off and remember I still have dishes in the sink. Was it the dress that made me feel magical, or did it just amplify the confidence that was already hiding under the surface? (Either way, 10/10 would wear again.)

    And hey, “beautiful” works here, but so does “handsome” — this is a gender-neutral confidence boost. Clothes can absolutely open the door to confidence, but they might not be everyone’s door. For some, it’s music, or makeup, or just a good hair day.

    But let’s be real: the right outfit can make you walk differently, stand taller, and suddenly pretend you’re the main character in a movie montage. Before you know it, you’re seeing yourself in a whole new light — and that’s powerful. Dress for success, and you’re basically helping out your future self… who will thank you later for looking so put-together while figuring life out.

    Photo: TiAchen Aier

    A Way A Person Looks At You

    This might sound a little confusing, but I’ve noticed something about people who struggle to see their own beauty: we don’t really love being stared at. I know I personally hate it when someone looks at me longer than feels normal — cue the awkward “take a picture, it lasts longer” joke in my head. And then the thoughts start creeping in: Were they staring because something’s wrong with me? Or… did they actually think I’m cute?

    Chances are, it’s just those pesky human insecurities doing their thing in the background. We all have them, even when there’s no reason to.

    I’m talking about that one person who gives you butterflies just thinking about them. For me, it’s my husband. I feel the most beautiful when he looks at me — and not in a “hey, you look okay” way, but more like a kid staring at a giant slice of chocolate cake. You know the look: pure awe, maybe a little drool (okay, maybe not the drool).

    When that one person looks at you like that, you can feel beautiful without them even saying a word. The tricky part? Letting yourself actually believe it. You’ve got to get out of your own head and just… absorb it.

    The truth is, everyone is beautiful in their own way — and it doesn’t have to be just about looks. Society might try to convince us otherwise, but real beauty comes from so many places: your heart, your laugh, the way you treat people. You’re beautiful — you just need to find the door that lets you see it for yourself.

    Author: chavanchirashree

    Practice Self- Care

    I used to put everyone else first — I mean, that’s basically the unofficial job description of a mom, right? But then I had a moment of clarity and said, “You know what? Me time, baby!” Suddenly I’m buying that fancy skincare that promises to make me look like I slept eight hours instead of three. I’m getting my nails done like I just won a small lottery. And yes, I’m not even hesitating to get my hair done — if the budget allows, of course.

    And this isn’t just for the ladies reading this. Gentlemen, a fresh haircut or a little grooming upgrade can do wonders for your confidence too. Think of it as armor for life — it may not solve all your problems, but you’ll look fabulous while tackling them.

    Maybe it’s as simple as treating yourself to a cup of coffee. I mean, a cup of coffee might not make you instantly feel like a supermodel, but it will make your day go about 1000% better — and let’s be honest, surviving the day without it is basically a crime against humanity.

    And here’s the big one: surround yourself with positive people. You know, the ones who actually lift you up instead of dragging you into a gossip black hole or a pity party. As I always tell my kids (because apparently I like giving life lessons like I’m Yoda with a caffeine addiction): positivity breeds positivity. And if all else fails, just hug a dog, scroll some memes, and pretend you’re on a reality show where the prize is self-love.

    Author: MariaSophia39

    Accepting Yourself

    Why is it 🤔 that when someone else says something negative about themselves, we instantly turn into motivational coaches? “No, girl, you’re amazing! You’re gorgeous! You’re basically a walking trophy!” But when it comes to ourselves? Oh no, we don’t hesitate for a second to roast ourselves like we’re hosting a comedy roast.

    And the worst part? If we keep feeding ourselves those little negative comments, eventually we start believing them. Hypocrisy, if you ask me — we’re basically the meanest friend we’ve ever had… to ourselves.

    I’m guilty of this myself — putting myself down when I don’t need to. Being beautiful isn’t just about what you see in the mirror; it’s about who you are on the inside and how you treat others. So why is it so easy to cheer someone else up when they’re feeling low, but we can’t seem to do the same for ourselves?

    I’m not trying to shame anyone — we all have our moments. The truth is, nobody is perfect. We all have flaws, messy days, and things we wish we could change. Learning to be a little kinder to yourself, even when life gets messy, is what really counts.

    Don’t let strangers control how you see yourself — seriously, they have enough going on without running your self-esteem. The only opinion that really matters is yours. You’re beautiful. Yes, you. Be your own friend. Cheer yourself on like you just won a lifetime supply of tacos.

    This isn’t something that happens overnight. Learning to hype yourself up takes practice — kind of like figuring out a new hobby, or assembling IKEA furniture without crying. Just like any relationship in life, it takes time, patience, and a little humor to get it right.

    Conclusion

    I wanted to share a few ways to help you feel beautiful… or handsome. Because let’s be honest, we all need that little confidence boost — even if it’s just convincing yourself you look okay in sweatpants.

    If you made it this far through this post, first of all, congratulations — you deserve a medal (or at least a cookie). I really hope something I talked about above helps you find that one thing that makes you feel fabulous — and yes, everything I said wasn’t just for the ladies; gentlemen, I see you too.

    So, here’s to feeling good about yourself, laughing at the chaos, and maybe giving yourself a little high-five in the mirror. Until next time, have a blessed day — and remember: confidence looks good on everyone.

    “Feeling kind? Hit that $2 coffee button and help me replace stress with caffeine and gratitude.”

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  • Where I Started to Where I am Now!

    Where I Started to Where I am Now!

    So lets go back to the year 2012, I know that’s a long way to go back. In 2012 I was 26 years old and just welcomed my third and last child into the world. I was a high school drop out and I had a 4 year old little girl and a 2 year old boy and newborn daughter.

    I was living in the projects as many young unwed mothers did at that time. Things were looking dark I was struggling In the worst way mentally. I was living off my kids child support of $400 a month. Not much when you have 3 kids under 5. Being a mom is the best thing that happened to me. When you are a parent you always should want to be the role model your kids can look up too. To be proud of you when they look back on their childhood. Knowing you did all you could to influence them to be a better version of themselves when they are all grown up.

    I knew something had to change I had to make a better life for my kids, to be the role model they can be proud of. I wanted to do what was best for them. for that to happen I had to make big decisions.Let’s fast-forward into 2013. I started attending GED classes for young mothers, I was able to bring my kids with me while I attended classes which helped a lot. I am an over protective mother and being able to bring the kids was a life changing opportunity. It gave me the boost and the keys in a sense to open doors to many opportunities.( sorry if this post is long. I will try to give the short version) Long story short in 2014 I received my GED, my children were 6,4,and 2 at this time and in the fall of 2014 I started College courses .

    College is where everything changed, my mindset changed and my goals for our life changed. I found my self walking more confidently, and in May of 2017 I graduated with an Associates in “Office Technology” and a Certificate in Medical Technology. I went from living in the projects to living in a small apartment in 2019. Then with saving money and planning. I was able to buy my house I’m living in 2021 all on my own. I promised my kids I would try to get them a house after living in apartments . The feeling of being able to keep that promise but to also be blessed to have a house was something I couldn’t describe. I felt like I made it in life, I’m not just a single mother of three, I was thriving!

    In 2021 I met the man that is now my husband and we were married in 2024 ,and although rough days still visit me I just think about how far I have come in life and it just brings a smile to my face. Life will always have obstacles that seem so big that we start thinking second guessing our goals or life decisions. I always tell myself positive breeds positive and the same goes with negative breeds negativity. Life is going to have its ups and downs. Its alright to have a pity party for a few days, you just can’t unpack and stay in that mind set. There are a few questions to help you overcome set backs.Thee questions are: how are you going to handle it? Will you let it break you? Or make you stronger? I know that I am a stronger person mentally because of my past. Trust me it wasn’t easy but so worth it in the end when you come out on top of what you were going through. The key to making it to the top is never stop fighting. I hope when you read my blog it will bring warmth to your heart and a smile to your face. Until next time have a Blessed Day! If you enjoyed what you read, comment ” Fight” down below.

  • Come Along for the Ride: My Life, My Words.

    Come Along for the Ride: My Life, My Words.

    My name is Jadilyne Baca-Slater, but I’m going by Jade mostly. Not because I don’t like my name but because the opposite. Most people have a hard time pronouncing my name. I think Jades is easier to remember as well. Well now that’s all of the way . I want to invite you to take a peek into my world. If nothing else, please laugh with me if I make a humorous comment or spot a typo – I’m human! You don’t fail when you make a mistake; you fail when you don’t try. Lord Knows I am trying !

    As for me, I’m dipping my toes into the world of blogging. Sharing things from my life. Challenges I dealt with and overcame. Lessons I have learned. Or perhaps different type quotes I’ve seen and wanted to share. Will I succeed? Or will I fail miserably and throw a tantrum like a toddler? I don’t know yet, but what I can promise is that it will be about the ride we take together. I truly hope you enjoy it! Have a Bless Day. If you are enjoying this blog comment “yes” down below, if you are shy just hit the like button

    Don’t forget to check out Jades Cozy Nook. Where you will find a few digital products

    Mini Care Giver Kit- Checklist, Chaos and Coffee.-It helps keep your stress on the down low. It also assists you in taking care of your loved one or your client.

    Checklist, Chaos, and Coffee

    7 Day Journal Reset for Stressed Parents- This is a 7 day journal that gives you a place to vent. It’s filled with question prompts mixed with humor quotes to hopefully bring a smile to your face.

    7 Day Journal Reset for stressed parents

    That was a lot to write, I could use a cup of coffee to re-energize. Wanna help? it only cost $2. That is it, with $2 I can help with the little things behind the scenes.

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