The pressure to be a “perfect parent” is everywhere. Social media bombards us with highlight reels of parents who seem to have it all together. Experts share conflicting advice. And the never-ending mental load? Exhausting.

But here’s the truth: every parent struggles. The key is to recognize these struggles, address them with practical solutions, and most importantly, give yourself grace.

Let’s break down some of the biggest parenting struggles today and what you can do to navigate them without losing your mind.

1. The Pressure to “Get It Right”

Parenting comes with an unspoken expectation to always do what’s “best” for your child. The problem? No one actually agrees on what “best” means.

You’ve got parenting books telling you one thing, pediatricians advising another, and social media influencers making you feel like you’re doing it all wrong. Even well-meaning family members can add to the pressure with unsolicited advice. No wonder parenting struggles is a real issue today!

So, how do you deal with this overwhelming need to get everything right?

• Accept that perfection doesn’t exist. Even the most experienced parents make mistakes. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s doing your best with the resources and knowledge you have.
• Trust your instincts. No one knows your child better than you do. What works for one family may not work for yours.
• Filter out the noise. Not all advice is good advice. Find a few trusted sources and tune out the rest.

Parenting isn’t about checking all the right boxes. It’s about adapting, learning, and loving your child through it all.

2. Balancing Work and Family Life

For many parents, work doesn’t end when they leave the office (or close their laptop if they work from home). The challenge of balancing professional responsibilities with family life is a daily struggle.

Here’s what often happens:

• You feel guilty when you’re at work because you’re not spending enough time with your kids.
• You feel guilty when you’re with your kids because you’re falling behind at work.
• You’re mentally exhausted trying to do it all.

Finding balance is tough, but it’s not impossible. Here’s how:

• Set clear boundaries. If you work from home, create a designated workspace and set “work hours” so you can unplug when the day is done.
• Prioritize quality over quantity. It’s not about how much time you spend with your kids—it’s about making that time meaningful.
• Share the load. If possible, divide parenting responsibilities with your partner or ask for help from family members.

A healthy work-life balance isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about making intentional choices that support both your career and your family.

3. Technology Battles

Screens are everywhere: TVs, tablets, smartphones, gaming consoles. While technology has its benefits, many parents worry about its impact on their kids.

The common concerns?

• Too much screen time affecting physical and mental health
• Exposure to inappropriate content
• Kids becoming overly dependent on technology for entertainment

Instead of banning screens altogether (which isn’t realistic in today’s world), try this approach:

• Set clear screen time limits. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than one hour per day of high-quality screen time for young children. Older kids should have screen use balanced with other activities.
• Encourage active screen time. Instead of passive consumption (watching endless YouTube videos), opt for interactive and educational content.
• Model healthy habits. Kids learn by watching, so if you want them to have a balanced relationship with technology, set the example.

Technology isn’t the enemy but setting healthy boundaries is essential for raising responsible digital citizens.

4. Parental Burnout Is Real

Feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and emotionally drained? You’re not alone. Parenting comes with an invisible workload—meal planning, managing schedules, organizing playdates, remembering doctor’s appointments—it’s a lot.

Signs of parental burnout include:

• Constant fatigue, even after sleeping
• Irritability and short temper
• Loss of enjoyment in parenting

How to avoid burnout:

• Delegate where possible. If your partner, family, or even an older child can take on some tasks, let them.
• Lower your standards. The house doesn’t need to be spotless. Dinner doesn’t have to be a three-course meal. Simplify where you can.
• Make time for yourself. Even 15 minutes of alone time can make a big difference.

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is taking care of your family.

5. The Comparison Trap

Ever scrolled through Instagram and wondered how other parents seem to have it all figured out? The truth is, they don’t. They face parenting struggles just like every other parent.

What we see online is a curated version of reality. Behind every picture-perfect family moment, there’s likely a meltdown, an argument, or a sleepless night.

To stop the cycle of comparison:

• Unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate. Follow real, relatable content instead.
• Celebrate your own wins. Instead of measuring yourself against others, recognize what’s working in your own family.
• Remember that every child is different. What works for one kid may not work for another. Focus on your child’s needs.

The only parenting journey that matters is yours.

Conclusion

Parenting is a rollercoaster and parenting struggles is part of it. Some days feel like a win, others feel like a mess. But the most important thing to remember? You’re doing better than you think.

Perfection isn’t the goal. Loving, supporting, and being present for your child is.

Need some inspiration for a fun sleepover? Read our 20+ Fun Things To Do At A Sleepover article for a fun-filled night with the kids!

The post The Biggest Parenting Struggles Today (And How to Overcome Them) appeared first on .

You are stronger than you think

Difficult times can test our strength and resilience, but it is important to remember that we are capable of overcoming anything that life throws our way. You have already survived many difficult challenges in your life and you will continue to do so. Believe in yourself and your ability to persevere.

Focus on the present moment

When we are going through difficult times, it can be easy to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets about the past. However, it is essential to stay present and focus on the moment at hand. Taking one step at a time and staying focused on what you can control in the present moment can help ease some of the stress and anxiety that come with difficult times.

Surround yourself with positive people

Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people can make a huge difference in getting through difficult times. Seek out friends, family members, or professionals who can offer encouragement, understanding, and support. Talking to someone who listens without judgement can be very therapeutic and help you process your feelings.

Encouragement and Practise of self-care

Taking care of yourself is essential when going through difficult times. This can include things like eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring you joy. Taking time for yourself to recharge and prioritize your well-being can give you the strength and energy to tackle any challenges that come your way.

Keep things in perspective

It can be easy to feel like everything is falling apart during difficult times, but it is essential to keep things in perspective. Remind yourself that this is only a temporary situation and that things will get better with time. Try to focus on the good things in your life and be grateful for what you have.

Seek help if needed

There is no shame in seeking help when going through difficult times. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend, reaching out to a mental health professional, or seeking support from a religious or spiritual community, seeking help can provide you with the tools and resources you need to get through tough times.

Words of Encouragement Benefits:

Difficult times are an inevitable part of life. We all face challenges, obstacles, and hardships at some point in our lives, and these experiences can be incredibly overwhelming. When you’re feeling down and out, it can be hard to find the motivation to keep going, to keep pushing through the tough times. But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this, and that there are words of encouragement that can help you get back on your feet and keep moving forward.

Words of Encouragement as an Opportunity to Grow and Learn

One of the most important things to remember is that every difficult experience is an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to become stronger. When we face challenges, we’re given the chance to find new strength, to develop resilience, and to become better versions of ourselves. So instead of thinking of tough times as a burden, try to see them as an opportunity to grow and become the best you can be.

Finding Hope and Success

Another key aspect of encouragement is finding hope. It’s easy to become bogged down in negativity and despair when things aren’t going well, but it’s important to remember that things can and will get better. Find hope in the small things around you, in the people who care about you, and in the positive aspects of your life. Hold onto this hope, and it will give you the strength you need to keep going, even when things are at their toughest.

Find Words of Encouragement in Your Support Circle

One of the most powerful forms of encouragement is the support of others. Whether it’s a friend, a family member, or a professional support network, having someone to talk to, to confide in, and to lean on can make all the difference when you’re going through a difficult time. Don’t be afraid to reach out to those who care about you and ask for their help. You’ll be amazed at the difference it can make.

Words of Encouragement: Being Grateful

Another way to find encouragement during tough times is by focusing on the things you’re grateful for. When you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed, it’s easy to forget about the good things in your life. But taking a moment to reflect on the things you’re thankful for, no matter how small they may seem, can help shift your focus and give you a more positive outlook on things.

Finally, remember that you’re not alone in this. So many people have faced tough times and come out the other side, and you will too. It may not happen overnight, and it may not be easy, but with time, patience, and perseverance, you’ll get through this. You have the strength and resilience to overcome any obstacle, and with the right words of encouragement, you can find the courage and motivation to keep going, even when things are tough.

In conclusion, difficult times are a normal part of life, but with the right words of encouragement, you can find the strength and resilience to keep pushing through. Remember that challenges are opportunities for growth, hold onto hope, reach out for support, focus on gratitude, and never forget that you’re not alone in this. With time and perseverance, you’ll get through the tough times and come out the other side even stronger and more resilient.

What are some of your favourite words of encouragement?

The post Words of Encouragement for a Difficult Time appeared first on .

If you’re new to eBay selling, you’ll find that it’s very user friendly and you can be up and selling in minutes. All you need is a laptop or a smart phone. Yes, you can use your phone now and make a decent amount of money online. It takes some planning and market research but that’s why’re here to help you figure out what clothing brands sell best on eBay. So, let’s start making money!

There are three main categories of clothing brands that sell well on eBay.

1. Kids’ clothing
2. Women’s clothing
3. Men’s clothing

It’s really up to you on what you enjoying bargaining for. As a first rule, you’ll need to establish a few sources for buying clothes at very attractive prices. These could be your local retailers. Think Walmart, TJ Max, Marshalls, Costco, etc. You can also find good bargains at second hand stores. eBay buyers don’t mind gentle used second hand clothing brands, so it’s a win-win here.

Assuming that we’ll be looking at Women’s Clothing only, here are the top clothing brands that will sell well on eBay in 2024.

Ralph Lauren Black Label

Ralph Lauren Black Label is the top line of the Ralph Lauren collection for women. The prices for this particular label are high, considering its luxury position in the market. A simple, basic dress retails for over $1,000 for example. Other clothing items such as a wool coat can be as much as $2,500 or more. Skirts are on average in the $500 to $700 range. If you can find a great discount on Ralph Lauren Black Label or gentle used pieces at a great deal, get it. You’ll be able to make a good profit in no time.

Eileen Fisher Clothing Brand

Found at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales, Eileen Fisher is an upscale, lifestyle brand that is simple yet beautiful. This clothing brand offers various pieces that could be worn on many occasions. Think casual to business meetings. Some of Eileen Fisher jackets can go up to $500 but the resale value is great on eBay. If you can find a good deal, you’re bound to make some serious profit on selling this clothing brand on eBay in 2019.

Bonus – other non-luxury clothing brands that sell well on eBay in 2024

1. J Crew
2. Theory
3. Lululemon
4. Under Armour
5. North Face
6. Columbia
7. Bebe
8. BCBG
9. Banana Republic
10. Levis

The clothing brands listed do not guarantee that you’ll be making a large amount of money selling on eBay. However, it serves as a good starting point for some of the best clothing brands that you can start selling. It’s best to keep an eye out for the latest styles. If it’s outdated and you wouldn’t wear it, don’t buy it. Lastly, you may also want to consider some “vintage” pieces such as jeans or jean jackets. These will sell well, providing that they are in good shape. Now that you know what clothing brands sell best on eBay in 2024, go ahead and try out and let us know how you did!

Do you have experience selling on eBay? What are your recommendations?

The post What Clothing Brands Sell Best on eBay in 2024? appeared first on .

A very basic 5×5 playhouse (usually cedar, pre-fab) might cost $1,000 to $1,500 without delivery. Having said that, that’s a lot of money to be spending on a kids playhouse. Not sure about your budget, but the best alternative is a DIY playhouse project that you can complete in no time. So let’s take a closer look at how to make a kids playhouse step by step.

What Kind of Wood Should I Use to Build a Playhouse?

This all depends on your budget. But let’s start with the basics. If you’re on a tight budget, you can go ahead and use normal, non-pressure treated lumber. Better yet, you can use wood pallets if available in your area. You can get a standard 48″x40″ pallet for next to nothing, usually for free. Take a look on your local Marketplace or Craigslist to see if any available. If you’re working with a higher budget, you can go with pine or cedar. Cedar will be best but that comes with at a higher cost.

How Do You Make a Playhouse Step by Step?

Now that we have an understanding of what type of wood we can use for building a playhouse, let’s take a look at a building process.

Location of Your New Playhouse

Most important decision after your budget is the location of your playhouse. Do you have enough room in your backyard to do it? If you don’t have a backyard, where are you intending to put it? Think twice before starting building. Although a playhouse is easy to take apart, it’ll save you time and money doing so.

Gather All Your Building Materials

Equally important as your location, getting your building materials is critical as this will require some time and effort in gathering it all. Make sure you have:

1. Wooden boards 2×8
2. 2×4 boards
3. 1/4 plywood
4. Screws, 3″ galvanized
5. Decking planks
6. Wood siding or mental
7. Shingles
8. Roofing nails

Create The Base

Use your 2×8 boards then cover it with the decking planks. For example, you can form a 6×8 rectangle by cutting the 2×8 boards. Use your 3″ screws and create the rectangle. Add 2 additional 2×8 boards to create your floor joints. To cover the foundation and create the floor measure and cut the 1×6 deck plank to fit the base. Cover the base completely.

Create The Wall Frames

To build the playhouse, you’ll have to make empty wall frames that attach to each side. Make sure that you measure and install the wall inside the floor, usually about 1″. Use your 2×4 boards.

Attach Wall to Base

Start with the back wall, standing it at the edge of the floor, 1″ inside. Use the galvanized screws and screw this in place. Next, get the side walls up with the last wall beige the front.

Build The Playhouse Roof

Measure and create your rafters, made from your 2×4 boards. Attach the struts to the ridge board and then add the rafters. Cut plywood to fit the roof. You can now attach shingles to the top of the plywood. Screw the rafter and struts to the frame.

Finish The Walls & Roof

Once you finish the walls and shingles, you can now add whatever personal touches you like. For example, you can paint the outside, add accessories and perhaps put a table set inside for the kids to use.

Final Cost of Building a Playhouse

So, how much does it cost to build a playhouse in the end? You should be able to build a nice and roomy kids playhouse for $100 to $300 if you do it yourself. That includes all materials. On the other hand, if you plan on buying a prefab, that cost is usually 3 to 4 times higher.

The choice is up to you however, with a little patience and time, you can be saving hundreds. Now that you know how much does it cost to build a playhouse, are you going to do it yourself or buy one? Let us know what you decide. If you built it yourself, do share how it turned out and what step you took in the process.

The post How Much Does It Cost To Build a Playhouse appeared first on .

How to Add a Pop of Color to a Room – 6 Secrets Revealed

Tip 1 – Flexibility On Picking and Adding Color To a Room

You don’t have to pick one color. If your home is predominantly neutral and then there are just pops of purples for example or splashes of navy throughout, your space is still going to feel generic and bland as well as overly matching. And, to be honest, this will look pretty boring. Instead, choose something to pull from. Is there a painting or a pillow fabric you have on display that your accent colors can reference back? Ideally, you would start with your neutral basic color palette and then identify two or three colors you want to be reappearing throughout the space.

If you want to go even deeper, you can have those two or three colors appear in other areas of the home, in different ways so that you can also get a pleasant, cohesive flow from one room to the next. And, maybe that means eggplant throw pillow in the living room, eggplant vase in the kitchen, eggplant blanket on your sofa or bed. But that can’t be it. Otherwise, suddenly your home is going to feel like a weird beige and purple zebra skin!

We recommend blending in different colors. For example, you can add a glassy green pillow on the sofa, pale glassy green walls in the bedroom and maybe a painting or a fabric print that calls back all those colors. The idea is to achieve a balance. Not too much of any color. Identify a couple of colors you like in combination and then figure out how to apply different quantities of each. Make sure you distribute those colors evenly throughout your space, without feeling overwhelming or overdone in certain areas.

Tip 2 – Make It Easy For Yourself

For your own sanity and ease, put your accent color on things that you can change. This is one of the greatest benefits of keeping your palette neutral and understated. If allows you to swap up your current accent colors if you got tired of them without having to buy a new sofa or repaint the whole room. And, if you start feeling really ambitious, you can swap out your accent colors based on seasons! Again only if you are feeling ambitious!

Tip 3 – Add Collective Colors to a Room

When looking at how to pick accent colors for a room, consider picking colors based on how they look collectively, not just based on your preference for the individual colors. For example, red and green screams Christmas, no matter how well you position your colors. Red and blue shouts Nautical unless you have a really good gift of mixing them out with neutral tones to mellow them down. Think about unexpected colors such as rusty orange, slate blue, various shades of yellow or greens.

Tip 4 – Reconsider an Accent Wall

Sometimes you may think that you absolutely “need” an accent wall. If you think strongly about having an accent wall, think twice. The application of an accent wall is a tricky one. You really need just the right spot for it, or it will just end up feeling like a 2007. So give it some real consideration to your permanent accent colors.

Tip 5 – You’re Not Tied Down To Adding Just One Color

Once you made a decision on your accent color, don’t think that this means you can only use one of these colors. Your accent colors are meant to be recurring colors that keep popping up throughout your home. It doesn’t mean they have strict monopoly on color. We encourage you to add a little diversity to your pallet with unexpected splashes.

Don’t buy a vase you love because it isn’t purple and your primary color accent color is purple. And definitely don’t buy a vase or painting you don’t like just because it’s purple. The key here is to maintain a balance this way your home feels more collected and authentic. The message here is clear, don’t fill your home with various objects just because they are the same color as your accent wall!

Tip 6 – Add a Bold Furniture Color

Consider painting a piece of furniture in a bold color. Breadking away from the wood-on-wood palette of most caseloads can be a terrific way to add a little pizazz to your home. Take one of your more weathered furniture pieces and follow our instructions on How to Paint Pine Furniture for example for easy DIY steps. A bold or bight color can be a perfect way to add a little pop in an unexpected way. The only downside to this is that pillows are much easier to change colors out than dressers colors. So, if you decide to take the plunge on this, make sure it’s the color that you really want and that works otherwise, you’ll be repainting again in a few years.

Here you have it. Now you know how to add color to a room. Follow the above and you should be in good shape when it comes to how to pick the right color for a room in your house for that extra pop of color. If in doubt, take a few days to reconsider colors and the actual accent wall that you’re considering. Expect to repaint again until you get the perfect color match throughout your house. Don’t forget to be open to other colors also and to add a few bold furniture pieces.

Let us know how your new color turned out!

The post How To Add Color To a Room appeared first on .

Patio furniture on clearance is without a doubt the smartest thing that you should consider. Typically, clearance sales offer anywhere from 20% up to 70% off. Talking about a great deal on patio furniture! So, where can you actually go and get these amazing prices? We’ve looked at a few retailers and have recommended our suggestions below.

Walmart Clearance Patio Furniture 

Walmart has a variety of patio furniture. As of end of August, there are 1,000+ items on clearance! Walmart makes it easy and convenient to shop. You can shop in the store, order online and pick up in the store of get the patio furniture delivered. The choice is up to you! Here are some amazing patio furniture on sale that you can’t miss.

Balichun 7 Piece Conversational Patio Furniture Set

Let’s start with the price first! The regular price is $2,599.00. How about a $899 deal? That’s right, you can buy this beautiful set today for a huge discount. Ideal for any garden, backyard, pool or balcony, this stylish patio set will sure impress. Made from all-weather rattan and featuring a steel frame, this patio set is sturdy and will last for years. 

Home Depot Patio Sets

Home Depot is another big box retailer that offers tons of patio furniture. Currently Home Depot offers a 40% off on their patio furniture clearance on over 100 + patio pieces. 

We love the Oakshire 9 piece Patio Set that is made from aluminum. The Sunbrella Henna red cushions are a great accessory too! 

Pricing wise, we’re looking at 42% off the regular price of $1,899. So you can get this great patio furniture on clearance now for $1,099! That’s a steal considering that it is made of aluminum. This patio set is sturdy and high quality. Most importantly is weatherproof and it’s easy to clean.

Wayfair Patio Furniture on Sale 

Get ready for some amazing deals on Wayfair patio furniture. Often called “Closeout” offers, you can now purchase patio pieces for up to 50% off. Ready for an even better offer? Wayfair also offers free shipping on certain items. 

If you’re on a budget and shopping for a real good deal, look no further than the Anje Rectangular Dining Set that seats 6 people. This also includes cushions.

This patio set is priced at $2,644 however, you can get this at 46% off for a total of $1,479. With 4.4 out of 5 review score, you can’t go wrong with this beautiful patio. This also qualifies for free shipping. So take advantage today.

BONUS – Other Retailers to Consider

Amazon: you’ll also be able to score some deals on Amazon as most suppliers are clearing out their patio furniture pieces now. So have a look and see what works for your budget and style.

Ikea: – if you’re working with a tight budget, Ikea maybe your best bet for a patio set. Especially important if you’re working with small spaces such as balconies or have a smaller backyard where space is limited. 

Costco: take a look at Costco too. End of the season sales are decent and you may be able to get a deal on some of the patio furniture. Although not as price competitive as some of the retailers mentioned above, is worth taking a look on your next visit.

Target: as with Ikea, if you’re on a budget, Target may suit your needs. End of season sales are good and you can get up to 50% off or more on their patio sets. Look online first to get some ideas and visit your local store to see what’s available. 

Here you have it. If you’re looking for patio furniture on clearance, now you know when and where to buy! You can save hundreds by buying at the end of the season. And, who doesn’t like savings? Now you have the opportunity to do it so shop around smartly and save big. Let us know where you usually shop and how much you typically save on patio furniture on sale. Also, we’ll love to hear other retailers in your city that offers 

The post Patio Furniture On Sale: Best Time To Buy? appeared first on .

And that’s why we’ve put together our complete DIY, step by step guide on how to paint your existing wood furniture in a whitewash finish. Whether this furniture is for your bedroom, your kitchen or a living room, such furniture never seems to go out of style.

The great news is that this DIY project is easy and it doesn’t take too much time. After all, whitewashing furniture is a simple process of adding a thin coat of white paint which leaves the wood exposed for its natural beauty.

Now that you have a basic understanding of what whitewashing furniture is, let’s get to it.

1. First Step on How To Whitewash Furniture: Gather all tools needed & prep the furniture

Whether you are working on a large piece of furniture or a small dresser or coffee table, the same process still applies along with the tools needed. So let’s start with what you need first:

1. 100-grit sandpaper
2. paint tray with a roller
3. white paint
4. primer (depending on how you like the finish product to look – read more below)

Here’s a tip: if you like to have the wood grain showing, don’t prime the furniture. On the other hand, if you want to go with a more traditional look, you can apply a primer (low stain blocking). Let that dry completely and start painting.

Once you gathered all the tools and materials needed, you’re ready to start prepping the wood furniture.

2 Add More Water For More of An Effect on Your Whitewash Wood Furniture

To get the whitewash effect, you’ll need to mix water with your white paint. We recommend getting latex-based paint, so mix that accordingly. Here’s what you need: two-parts paint and one-part water. You can play with the quantities but we find that works best.

Important: Test this on an old piece of wood and see if you like the result. You can add more paint or water to your liking as mentioned above.

3. Start Painting Your Furniture

Once you get the paint to your liking, use the roller, preferably a small to medium size dense roller, depending on your furniture size. You’ll need to wipe the paint before it dries so keep that in mind when working with large wood furniture pieces as per the next step below. Don’t forget to paint an an open air area if possible. Also, use a large tarp in case. You wouldn’t want to whitewash your flooring!

4. Gently Remove Paint

After your painting is complete, you need to wipe it down with a sponge to get the whitewash paint effect. If you were thinking about how whitewash wood furniture is painted, well, this steps explains the “secret”. When removing the paint, make sure you go against the grain of the wood. Also, be aware of the pressure you are putting on the sponge. You wouldn’t want to have large areas where more paint is shown so keep constant pressure on the sponge while removing the paint.

You can release the process above a few times. That is, you can remove the white paint and if you don’t like the result, you can repaint again. Remove the paint until the desired whitewash effect is achieved. Don’t worry too much if you haven’t got it perfect the first time. You can release this step as often as you like until you’re happy with the result.

5. Let The Furniture Dry and Evaluate

You’ll need to wait a full day or so to review how the paint has dried up. If you’re happy with the finished product, you’re almost done. If not, you can add another coat of paint and then remove some of it as explained above. Once you get to your liking of the whitewash wood furniture, you’re ready for one last step. Just make sure that the paint is completely dried. Some paints take more time than others to dry up. Last thoughts, if you have thicker layers of paint in some areas, just sand these down and repaint again. It’s not a big deal, remember there are no real mistakes here as every pieces of whitewash furniture is unique.

6. Add a Protective Clear Gloss

Once you achieved the whitewash colour you wanted you’re ready for add a protective clear coat to your newly whitewashed furniture. When the paint if fully dry, we suggest adding a coat of clear protective gloss to your newly painted whitewash wood furniture. Adding this will protect your furniture piece from scratches, chips and stains.

There are a variety of water-based clear gloss products on the market so pick what you like and what you have budgeted for. Applying a clear coast can be tricky and most times you’ll need to do a few coats until you achieved the desired look and finish. Just take your time and you should be able to complete this in a few hours.

7. Enjoy Your New Whitewash Wood Furniture

Congratulations. Now you have a newly painted furniture piece in your house that didn’t cost a lot and that was easy to do by yourself. By following the steps above, you can achieve this over a weekend. Such DIY projects are simple and don’t take too much time but can add a lot of value to your home decor.

Tips: we suggest looking on your FB marketplace for cheap pieces of solid wood that you can turn into a unique furniture. Whitewashing painted furniture is not that difficult as explained above. Besides, who doesn’t like furniture pieces that add character to any home decor at a fraction of the cost compared to the big box retailers? We sure do! So go ahead and get creative. Worst case scenario, you pick up a free dresser or coffee table and start a new learning process.

How about you? Have you tried to paint this before? Please share with us any other tips that you may have so that our readers can benefit also.

The post How To Whitewash Furniture: Step By Step Guide appeared first on .

We’re all about being practical. There’s no fancy ideology here. We like what works and therefore, only recommend what we think is best. It may not  suit every parent out there but the majority will find these practical tips on how to save money on children’s clothes easy to follow and most importantly beneficial.

Here’s how to save money on children’s clothing

Online Shopping

Amazon is a great place to start. There are countless of deals on children’s clothes and you don’t have to wait for a certain sales event such as Black Friday or Boxing Day to get a great deal. Setting up an account is very simple. Amazon’s algorithm is smart enough so it knows what products you’re interested in (by your search history). Their emails with product recommendations are also useful. So sign up and take advantage of multiple sellers that offer great prices, speedy delivery and good customer service as well as free return in case. Other big box retailers that are worth mentioning also offer some great online sales, so browse their sites often

Google Price Alerts 

Here’s an amazing way to compare over 1 billion products from your favourite stores: Shopbrain. Shopbrain is a Google Chrome extension. Just go to http://chrome.google.com and click under Extensions. Download Shopbrain and you are set. By the way, there’s no cost involved, so it’s a “no brainer”. You will always know the best price for children’s clothes or other baby products. The real value is also in the price comparison tool as well as being able to shop from all your favourite stores and brands.

Out of Season Sales 

If you like to walk around your favourite stores, look for the out of season sales section. Out of season sales offer amazing value as the products need to be moved out of the stores for the new season’s arrivals. You can get discounts of up to 70% or more. This is a very practical way on how to save money on children’s clothes. Just put them away for a few months and your kids will be ready to wear them once the appropriate season is in full force.

Size Up

We all heard that expression “they grow so fast” a million times for a reason, it’s very true. If you find a good deal but you think that it may be too big, just buy it anyway. This will not only save you money but will also free up some shopping time. Use that extra time that you save with the kids at the park or library. You’ve got a win-win here. Practical and simple.

Sell What Doesn’t Fit 

If you’ve got bags and bags of clothes that don’t fit, why don’t you consider selling them? Even though you may not be able to get what you paid for, you’ll be able to earn some cash back that you can use towards your future purchases. Ebay or your local classified Ads sites are a great way to advertise your children’s clothes that no longer fit. So go ahead, get your phone out, snap a few photos and list your children’s clothes in a matter of minutes.

The Obvious

We didn’t want to get into the obvious methods on how to save money on children’s clothes but these are also practical and worth mentioning briefly:

Garage Sale – easy, simple and convenient way to see what your neighbours are offering. You may be surprised what you can find as some families may have brand new clothes that were never worn by their kids.

Clothes Swaps – parents clubs, mothers gatherings, etc. You can set up a swag party and pick the baby clothes that you like.

Thrift Shops – for those that enjoy hunting for bargains, thrift shops may be the answer. Goodwill and Salvation Army are best however, don’t expect high quality here but at time you may get lucky with a lightly used piece of clothing that may just be the perfect fit for your kid.

Online Coupons – plenty of sites offer certain percentage off but most of these are for household items or baby necessities. Nevertheless, its’ worth considering if you like to use coupons.

The above are five plus ways on how to save money on children’s clothes. These are practical as it takes little to no time and it works. As always, we love to hear what other parents do to save money on their children’s clothing, so please comment below and let us know what works best for your family so that others can benefit as well.

The post 5 Practical Tips On How To Save Money On Children’s Clothes appeared first on .

So, is the hype real? Can you lay on the beach and get your passive income ring in thousands of dollars? I’m here to break the news to you: it ain’t real, my friend. Here’s the bottom line. No matter how passive your income is, you still have to put in the time and effort to maintain it.

There’s only a small percentage of the population that truly has passive income. These are people that invested in the early stages of Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for example. Their investment went 500X without much effort. But, what’s the percentage of that out of the entire population? Perhaps 1%?

There are only two areas that historically have been classified as true passive income:

1. Real Estate as Passive Income 

Real estate is a form of passive income although I tend to disagree slightly here as there’s still work involved, even though you may have a property management company involved.

2. Investment in the Financial Markets

Another form of passive income is investment in the financial markets, predominately in the stock market. Does it pay off? Historically, data shows that it does if your expectations are checked at the door.

So does passive income exist? Yes it does but it has to be practical. Does it require work and effort. Yes it does. Is passive income truly passive? No.

Let’s look into it in more detail as this topic fascinates me. There are literally thousands upon thousands of “experts” that go on YouTube and claim their latest system hack or automated business that made them rich. Perhaps is true, that 5% really made it. And making it is all relative here. But guess what? Their success wasn’t achieved overnight. It’s the grind in and out every single day that gets someone closer to their financial goal.

Let me ask this: if you know what works and you’re making thousands every single day, why would you share that with everyone over YouTube and then link to your eBook that you’re selling? I bet that most people that know what works keep that to themselves.

And to be honest, here’s what works: hard work, focus and perseverance.

Do me a favour. Keep your money in your pocket or invest it wisely in your business.

Don’t give it to a lot of these people that are selling you a dream.

So what does actually work when it comes to “passive income ideas”. Build something around your passion. I realize is very cliche and that some may say, following your passion is not the right thing, following the dollar is. Listen, I’m OK with that philosophy for the short term if you want to cash in on a trend/wave, but it will not get you far. By far, I mean a solid business that will keep going and provide value 5 years or 10 years from the start date. Know this; it’ll take time and discipline but eventually you’ll get there.

Here’s a plan of attack to achieve that financial goal that you may have:

1. Keep Working At Your Job

More than 70% of people are dissatisfied with their job. Don’t believe me? Here’s the latest findings from J.T. O’Donal on Inc. on Why People Hate Their Job. That’s mind blowing. But guess what, you’re not alone. At least you have a goal now. Create wealth for yourself and your family. Keep working to cover your basis necessities and start working on what matters: a business for yourself that you’re passionate about.

2. Invest Your Savings Into Your Business

Don’t be flashy with your money. Material things don’t matter. Experiences do. Invest your money into your business.

There’s never been a better time to start an online business. You can start a proper online business for less than $100 today. How many beers have you bought last weekend at the bar? I bet you spent over $100. Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Google Ads are an amazing tool to get your business in front of your target market. Use these amazing platforms wisely.

3. Know Your Financial Goal

What does success look like? Is it an extra $2,000 or $20,000 per month? Know your financial goal clearly so you can transition from your job that you hate to a business that you enjoy working on.

Reality Check 

You’ve been searching for passive income ideas. I get it. You want passive income, I also get that. But the reality is; you’re not going to get it unless you are very focused, disciplined and keep on grinding. I’m not telling you how to do it but the basic building blocks, if you’re willing to listen are:

Know How You Spend Your Time

Are you watching endless videos on YouTube or are excited about a new TV series coming up? Dose that eat up 1 or 2 hours of your day? Think about how much work you could have gotten done. Content, planning, connecting. It takes time and effort to become successful. Use your time wisely.

You Gotta Really Enjoy the Journey of Entrepreneurship 

You have to live and breath it. Otherwise, everything will at one point become boring. If you don’t enjoy the hassle and the chasing of your goal, might as well stay at your job that you hate.

Again, we live in a time where it’s never been easier to start an online business. Would it be easy? No. But hard work and perseverance will pay off, not in a month or two, but in years. If you’re willing to put in the work, the rewards are there.

Please, don’t be spending your hard earned cash on buying the latest eBook that promises you thousands of dollars per month with the coolest automated money making scheme. Passive income ideas are nothing but a dream.

Even the ones I mentioned here, real estate and stock investment require effort and time. Why would you think that thousands of “experts” want to sell you a dream? So, you can finance their cars, bottles and models. Do you really want to do that?

The post Passive Income Ideas: Expectations vs. Reality appeared first on .

How Parent PLUS Works:

1. How to Apply for a Parent PLUS Loan 

You’ll need to visit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) Federal Student Aid site. This step is a must as the Federal Student Aid is borrowing from the Parent PLUS Loan program. There are two ways to request the Parent PLUS Loan:

a. You can go directly to Official Student Loans Gov site

b. Speak to the college’ financial aid office. Applying online is easier but if you prefer to go in person, feel free to have a chat with the staff on campus.

2. Basic Guidelines for the Parent PLUS Loan 

a. The parent should request the loan, not the student/child

b. Use the same ID that you used for signing the FAFSA above

c. Whichever parent signs the Master Promissory Note (MPN) should be the parent that requests the loan

3. Eligibility 

The crucial factor to consider here is that, this loan is only available for dependent children who are enrolled in an undergraduate program. If you have a child that is not a dependent, you do not quality. If you are divorced, you can still apply for the loan as long as the dependent child is enrolled and you sign the MPN as explained above.

4. Credit Terms 

To be eligible for the parent loan, your credit score and your debt to income ratio does not matter therefore, is not taken into account. However, if you have a questionable credit history, you may want to straighten that up before applying. We’ll not get into too much detail here but keep in mind the usual defaults, bankruptcy discharges, foreclosures and other write-offs from the past five years.

5. Other Requirements 

There’s a complete list of requirements on the main site as per above but the main ones are:

a. Students must be enrolled at least half of their time

b. Must be US citizen, PR or eligible noncitizen

c. No default of any federal student loan program

d. This can be used for educational purposes only

6. Interset Rates 

As of this academic year (2018-2019), the interest rate of a Parent PLUS Loan is 7.6%. This is a fixed interest rate, so it does not change. However, every July the interest rate is changed pending market conditions.

7. Amount That You Can Borrow

The main idea here is that you can borrow the amount that is reflected in the cost of attending the college per year less any other loans that you may have. This includes but not limited to: tuition, room and board, books, supplies, etc.

8. Grace Period and Repayment 

You can have a six month grace period after your child graduates however, note the interest may accrue during this period. The typical repayment period for a Parent Plus Loan is ten years. Having said that, you may qualify for a longer period if an amount of $30,000 plus has been taken out.

Recommendation

First, establish your financial needs as parents and come up with a clear figure on how much you need for your child’s college education. Compare loans in the market place. This is critical as you may be able to get a different loan, sometime with better terms such as lower interest rates and better repayment plans. Consider a Direct Loan for example as mentioned above.

Bottom line, the Parent PLUS Loan still offers great value for your kids education. If you decide to go ahead with it, just follow the steps outlined here, firs being the FAFSA filing. We believe that this educational loan still provides enough value and flexibility and is worth considering.

Do you agree with our view? What are some other student loans that are worth considering when taking your children’s college education into account? What works for you as a parent?

The post Parent PLUS Loan Explained: All That You Need to Know appeared first on .