Erin Misenar

Beach pictures can be lovely. I love the open skies and beautiful scenes that beach shooting allows. The sound of the waves, the warm sand under my feet, the salty ocean breeze – I love it all! Shooting at the beach offers a unique set of challenges. It can be tough to manage a session with the bright, often hazy, light, the sand and wind, not to mention all that salt water, which can wreak havoc on equipment. But, the rewards far outweigh the challenges in my opinion. After several tries, I have some tips to help for great beach pictures to cherish.

Time of Day

The best time of day to take pictures at the beach is an hour before sunset. The lighting is the best here. If the day looks like rain later, go ahead and plan for the morning hours between 10 and 11. The light works then as well, but aim for nice afternoon light. Know where the light is coming from and aim your photos in that direction – look for shadows if that helps.

Hazards

Sand is your biggest hazard – hands down. The next biggest hazard is water. So, make sure you do not put your camera down anywhere so you can protect yourself. I was in Florida the last time I took pics and did have to deal with my lens fogging up after being in air conditioning to major heat. Bring along a lens cleaner for yourself, as well.

Outfits

Clothing options are personal preference. Many people like white shirts and outfits at the beach – or denim. Plan ahead and think about what you want your pictures to look like or where you might put your photos. Pastels work well – as do bright colors. Try to coordinate if you want to. Anything goes, and the more the merrier.

Have Fun

The more relaxed you can be, the better your photos will turn out. Have fun. Have someone tell a joke – and laugh. Enjoy the process. If you have little kids, bring a game out for photos and have some water on hand if anyone is thirsty. The more fun emotions – the better.

Below are some good pics to help you with posing ideas.

I use a camera setting with low aperture. Watch your horizon so it is level for the photo. Get low and close to subjects. Play around and have fun with your photos.

Remember laying out when you were younger? The warm sun on your face, the smell of Coppertone in the wind, squeezing out some Ban de Soliel or baby oil to slather over your legs? The boom box playing some Madonna as you were drinking New Coke? Sun in sprayed into your hair, wishing for blond highlights? Those days are over.

With the ozone layers depleting and worrying about wrinkles and fear for skin cancer, sunblocks are the bomb. My daughter started life guarding this year and I have been on the search for the best sunblocks – and I am going to share those with you! Here goes:

New sunscreen requirements from the FDA may make it easier for you to understand what you’re buying. Before you shop for sunscreen, understanding the terms you might find on packages is power. Sunblock is no longer used as a term. SPF of 50-plus doesn’t mean anything either. So, I have compiled a good list for you – so no worries.

Here goes:

La Roche-Posay

This sunblock will feel good on the skin and is creamy. This runs if you sweat a lot but you can wear for over 80 minutes without reapplying. It is fragrance free and fast absorbing.

Blue Lizard

This soaks in quickly and doesn’t have a bad smell. This will help any sensitive skin users. Great blockage.

Neutrogena

Supergoop!

Supergoop! has been around for awhile and is a good broad spectrum sunscreen. It is also frangrance and oil-free.

Trader Joe’s Sunscreen

If you have any other sunscreen that you love – please feel free to share!

So I got myself up early on Saturday morning and let the dogs out as I sipped on some tea before the mad rush of the day. I sat and pondered how the time had flown by and my daughter was graduating today. I was grateful for how she had grown into her own independent, strong woman that I see. She can handle anything.

However, getting dressed might be a struggle. She came upstairs and got her clothes on and we made sure the graduation gown didn’t have too many wrinkles in it. I curled her hair and at the last minute she decided she wanted to decorate her cap. What!?! So, I dragged out some paper and bling and glue and got to work. Once we finished that, she was out the door.

The other kids got ready and we ate some food as we were told many people were already at the minidome where graduation was being held. We arrived and found some seats and saved seats for other family members not yet there.

The Graduation

I sat around looking at all the graduates on the floor and all the people there to cheer on these 521 students. They all had worked hard to get there.

I realized the classes, studying, papers, tests, dates, break ups, tears, friends, athletics, laughter, smiles, were all over. I sat and looked at how all these kids were alike yet all so very different. Everyone was heading to a new adventure and this was the first start to that journey.

All our family finally arrived and the graduation started. As we watched all the students line up and hear their name read as they walked across the stage, and cheers were heard in the crowd, I realized how proud and happy I felt. I thought I would cry but I didn’t – I was more so excited for each of these kids. The teachers, administrators, coaches, friends, and family that were here for the kids was palpable.

Parties

The rest of the weekend ended in a few graduation parties and celebratory events and dinners. Gifts were included. It was nice to see the graduates and the families optimistic for the future.

So as the graduation balloons deflate, I will forever be grateful for my daughters journey thus far. Here’s to a new chapter!

Have you been invited to a graduation party and have no idea what to get? My daughter just graduated high school. I wandered Target to look at cards and other random gifts. There are so many things to find but not sure what anyone really needs. I would like to get them something they would want to have. My body felt sweaty as I headed out of there to find the best idea. Shopping for graduates these days can be hard. No worries. I am here to help you. I have compiled a list of great ideas for the high school graduate that they will be sure to love!

“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.”

B.B. King

Think about the graduate and what they are like. Are they funny? Are they serious? Are they an athlete? A sports fan? Consider many different ideas when looking for that perfect gift. Below are some ideas for great gifts.

This is perfect for getting into a football game and traveling with as well. Very practical gift. You could add a monogram or name in vinyl if you chose to make it more personal.

“The most important thing in your life is to live your life with integrity and to not give into peer pressure to try to be something that you’re not.”
—Ellen DeGeneres

Pillow

Custom pillow made with the hearts of whatever states you desire. Around $17 is a great deal to remember your loved ones. Perfect for the graduate who is headed out of state.

“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.”
—John Dewey

Portable Charger

These portable chargers are game changers. Practical and helpful to the student on the go.

“To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream, not only plan, but also believe.”
—Anatole France

This lamp has a timer, and light controls. Plug in your electronic and you are ready to go.

“The fireworks begin today. Each diploma is a lighted match. Each one of you is a fuse.”
—Edward Koch

Apple Watch

An awesome electronic – need I say more?

“The only thing you can do in this life is pursue your passions, celebrate your bloopers and never stop following your fear.”
—Grace Helbig

Laptop Backpack

Sleek design with USB port. Waterproof and ergonomical design. Great at under $30. Padded shoulder straps with hidden pockets for easy use.

or this

“Every person you meet knows something you don’t; learn from them.”
—H Jackson Brown Jr.

Books

There are so many good books for kids going to school. Like these:

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
—Mark Twain

Personalized Clip Board

GIFT CARDS

Grab a gift card if you can’t think of anything else. I like

Target

Bed, Bath, and Beyond

“Follow your passion. Stay true to yourself. Never follow someone else’s path, unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path. By all means, you should follow that.”
—Ellen DeGeneres

The graduate you know will love any gift. Make sure you add a great note letting them know how happy and proud of them you are – that is a keeper! Hand written notes really matter. If you have any great ideas – add below!!

Inspiration is defined as :

• 1.the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative:
• She had a flash of inspiration. synonyms:creativity, inventiveness, innovation, and innovativeness
• 2.a sudden brilliant, creative, or timely idea:”then I had an inspiration“synonyms:bright idea, brilliant idea, timely thought

Or

Definition of inspiration

1a: a divine influence or action on a person believed to qualify him or her to receive and communicate sacred revelation

b: the action or power of moving the intellect or emotions

c: the act of influencing or suggesting opinions

2: the act of drawing inspecifically: the drawing of air into the lungs

3a: the quality or state of being inspired

b: something that is inspired a scheme that was pure inspiration

4: an inspiring agent or influence from Websters Dictionary

What has inpired you?

Every once in awhile a story will inspire me or a quote. Those vary in different levels and can be different for many people. I do think that inspiration and motivation go hand in hand.

There is a reason that before/after results are inspiring. They show you what is possible.

Home before/after and Weight loss before/after.

The possibilities are endless.

I am inspired by certain Ted Talks and speakers. Some podcasts are also inspiring.

Certain songs and movies can be inspiring.

Quotes are inspiring as well.

Vision Boards can be a source of inspiration.

Just like when using motivation your “why” is important – the same goes for inspiration.

A person can inspire you.

There is inspiration anywhere you can look. You must look for it though.

I am inspired by this. Great movie, too.

I love this.

Level up is this.

What inspires you? What is inspiring??

Please share below…

My son is going to be 16 next month – but he is now 6 foot 4 inches. He had a sleigh bed that was full size that he outgrew for sure. So, we decided to get him a queen size bed. With that, the search for a new mattress was on.

I read and read different reviews of mattresses. I know that many stores have mattresses for sale – but I was debating. I know he will be leaving for college in two years – but this mattress should handle that.

I looked at the purple mattress – but it is pricey. Around $1000. I didn’t want to spend that. I also couldn’t find a discount code to use, either.

We looked at Costco and Sam’s Club because I have memberships at each one and both deliver. He went to Sam’s and climbed on the mattresses there, but didn’t love them. So, that was out.

I decided that I really wanted to spend about $500 or so. And if there was a guarantee on the bed – the better!!!

So, here comes in Tuft and Needle.

I could order from Amazon.com and get my prime benefits – but they seem to have a guarantee of 100 nights. It came to my door in a large box.

We took out the box and it was shrunk in and once we cut the plastic off – we rolled out and it came to life. I had read that there might be a smell – but we didn’t smell anything. We let it sit for a few hours before moving it – and it seemed fine. It was white and clean.

So far, it is comfortable and enjoyable. I am writing this and we have had for two weeks. My son’s 15 year old language, “It’s fine.” My 10 year old loved it and wanted it – so that tells you something. Now, we wait on the bed frame and the mattress in on the floor for now. But, I think this is a success!!!

Anyone else tried a box mattress or Tuft and Needle?

What is your favorite mattress?

What does motivation mean?

Definition of motivation

1a: the act or process of motivating

Some students need motivation to help them through school.

b: the condition of being motivated employees who lack motivation

2: a motivating force, stimulus, or influence : INCENTIVE, DRIVE

Motivation is the reason for people’s actions, willingness and goals.

Motivation is derived from the word motive in the English language which is defined as a need that requires satisfaction. from Wikipedia

Motivation is literally the desire to act and move toward a goal. It’s the difference between waking up before dawn to pound the pavement and lazing around the house all day. from Psychology Today

So, there are times when we need motivation to do something.

Depressed people might need motivation to get up in the morning and start the day. Everyone needs some form of motivation to do something.

What gets you motivated?

There are numerous motivators out there. I guess you need to realize your why!

You want to lose weight? – This might be for better health and to live longer or look good in a swimsuit.

Do you want to purchase a house? Save money – get a good job – work hard for that purchase.

If you want to run a marathon, you will need to start running a little bit every day.

Dream of writing a book? Start writing. Get pen to paper or get on a computer.

Your Why is the most important thing.

Why you do something will motivate you to do it.

I am motivated to clean my house if I am having people over. I just don’t want them to think I live as messy as I do sometimes. So, this will certainly get me moving if I know someone is on the way over.

Everyone has motivators – but do we use them well?

If you are not motivated – what does that look like?

What does motivated look like to you?

Do you envision a healthy body when you decide to eat healthy? Or do you envision being at the pool feeling confident?

Everyone has different motivators.

What now?

Once you know why you are motivated to do something, you are more likely to do it.

So… does this always work?

I have really liked Mel Robbin’s 5 Second Rule.

Mel Robbins says your mind decides what it is going to do within 5 seconds. So, if you count down from 5 4 3 2 1 – similar to a rocket launch – you can train your brain to do what you need to do. I suggest you try it. It is based on psychological truths.

If you motivate yourself with the 5 second rule – you can force yourself to make a decision to do what you need to do. If you like Mel Robbins – find her here.

What keeps you motivated???

Everyone has different things to keep them motivated. Once you figure out what it is you want to do – you can find quotes that will help you.

I like these motivational quotes:

• Nothing worth having comes easy.
• You only fail when you stop trying.
• Be the best version of you.
• A little progress each day adds up.

I like fun songs to keep me motivated. Podcasts also keep me motivated. Vision Boards are helpful, too.

What about you? What keeps you motivated?

Heading out to a dance competition seems easy. It isn’t — but it can be.

Location

First of all, you need to know where you are going and get that info into your GPS – and get hotel reservations early if at all possible. Depending on the area, you won’t always need a hotel, however, sometimes the event is far away and ends late or has early starts – so you will see if that is a possibility. Usually, we stay at a hotel near the venue – which could be a college, or convention center.

Certain hotels we have booked that were shady and had bugs. I vowed that we should probably be safe. Stick to Hampton Inn or Holiday Inn or whatever is close and reasonably priced. Other dance parents might have ideas on where to stay.

Please get the schedule from your studio so that you know when your dances is going to be dancing.

What You Need:

After you know where you are going – the fun begins.

1. Pack your dance jacket. Everyone has a dance jacket – or warm up. Make sure that is packed. All pins that they win at competition usually are worn on this jacket.
2. Pack all costumes. I find that costume bags like this:

Once you get your costume in the bag – the smaller pockets will hold a hair piece, and hair ties, or stockings, whatever the dance needs. Packing them all together helps to have things where you want when you need them. Make sure you have shoes. Larger bags have pockets for light shoes, if needed. There is usually a pocket on the front that you can add Name and Dance Name.

3.The Dance Duffle Bag

Eventually, you will want to invest in a dance duffle bag. I am not promoting one or another. There are tons availble – google Dance Duffle Bag. We did purchase a Dream Duffle in a small size on a sale. This holds everything we need and we can get to location and put up the rack and hang all the costumes and see what we have. The shoes go below. And ALL THE OTHER THINGS.

4. Other Things

Hair:

• Hair Brush
• Comb
• Hair Ties
• Bobby Pins and more Bobby pins
• Bun Form
• Hair Net
• Hair Gel
• Hair Spray

Make Up:

• Face Moisturizer
• Primer
• Concealer
• Foundation
• Powder – if needed
• Blush
• Eye Shadow
• Mascara or False Lashes – and glue for false lashes
• Eye Liner
• Make Up Remover Wipes
• Lipstick – our studio has a Hot Pink and Red – but each dance may have different ones.
• Glitter and Glitter Glue

5. Keep On Hand

• Scissors
• Kit for fixing costumes
• Bandaids
• Sequins or Stones and Glue for costume updates
• Butt Glue – Yes, this is a thing.
• Deodorant
• Tissues
• Snacks
• Phone – probably a given but Camera, too…

POSITIVE MENTAL ATTITUDE

Get to competition early. Plan on paying for parking. Get ready to purchase a program to know where dances are. Decide if you want to purchase a shirt for your dancer and/or pictures or videos.

Have dancer get ready about 2 hours in advance and start warming up about 1 hour before stage time.

SMILE and Wish Your Dancer the BEST!!!

Always clap and be happy for each and every dancer!!!

Ok – What did I miss??? Any other advice to give???

Let me start and say that I was not a dancer. I mean, yes, when I was five I was in ballet and tap – and that ended there. So, when my child wanted to dance – we went in blindly. I was friends with the owner of a dance studio and she thought my daughter would love it. Turns out – she did.

So, when I think back to what I learned while she was dancing, I won’t say I am the most successful dance mom – but I sure keep learning.

Here goes:

HAIR/MAKEUP

We had a class to learn the proper way to do hair when I first started. I learned how to do a bun – but I am still not super great – we started with a bump to bun – now it is just a bun – but it is what it is. A tight bun is hard to achieve and getting it high with no bumps and getting it gelled or sprayed up – takes skill. My hats off to those who can do it well. A high pony is another master skill – I have found with my daughter and her thin hair – the more ponytail holders – the better. Every dance studio has different guidelines for hair, and I am sure they are great at teaching you mad skills.

Makeup is another situation to master when a dance mom. I’m not fabulous with a eyeliner wing, but working on it. Some of the dancers are really good at makeup and depending on age, you can get them to practice and work at it themselves. It seems the younger the dancer – the more the glitter – but every dance depends. As a parent, I need to make sure we have the correct color lipstick for each dance – some red or pink.

ORGANIZATION

If you are a dance mom, you probably know that with each dance comes different costumes, shoes, hair piece, tights, and props – but please, no props. It is best to be organized. I might cover this later – but I have found that I have a bag for each costume and that helps when we get to competitions. There is a reason that many dancers have huge bags to go to competitions – it is to hold all of the things. There are a lot of things!!!And sometimes, the bigger = better. There are a few big dance bags I would recommend – the Dream Duffel. Rack Monsters

INTERPRETATION

Every judge judges differently. I have been to enough competitions where some judges like tappers, and some don’t. Some judges like fun dances, and some like serious dances. Every judge is different. I just like to tell my dancer that I enjoy watching her dance. I enjoy watching her do what she loves. We have learned not to get upset if one judge doesn’t love you and not to gloat when you win. Dancing does teach a dancer to be humble. Dancing teaches you that everyone interprets your dance in a different way. I try to tell all the dancers that I enjoyed their dance if I see it. I try to make my dancer proud of just going out and doing what she loves.

HARD WORK

Dancing takes many hours and hard work. We started with one dance. Then we worked our way to more dances. Hard work and many hours go into perfecting dances to work on stage. Dancers learn spacing and timing and choreography. All of these help mold, move, and change with each dance. The bruises my daughter had and the callouses on her feet – all with the time and energy and effort to dance and strive to be the best.

COSTUMES

I learned how to bling a costume. I mean – with mad tools and glue and timing and crystals. There are so many tools to bling with as well. And use the right crystals and glue. I am crafty so I really enjoy this – but my studio is really in charge and I go with the flow.

PERSONAL ASSISTANT

I am a driver and I make reservations. I am the person who keeps up with the bills and there are tons of bills. Maybe I will do another post and let you know all it entails. I have learned to do this well.

MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER

I have learned to motivate my child when needed. And console when needed. And be quiet when necessary.

Dancers have a gift. They have to love what they do and perform in front of others.

What dance tips do you have or what did I leave out???