Overcoming Loneliness as a Parent: A Guide to Finding Friendship and Support

Do you ever feel like you’re surrounded by people but still feel alone? Loneliness overshadowing everything else? Yep, been there. Sitting in a crowded play area, watching your kids play while longing for adult conversation.

Sure, I have a circle of friends now, but it wasn’t always that way. Back then, taking my kids out felt daunting, and the lack of adult conversation was hard.

Finding Connections: The Journey to Friendship

Thankfully, I’ve since found solace in a supportive group of friends, and venturing out with my kids no longer feels daunting. However, the memory of those lonely beginnings remains etched in my mind.

As a parent, whether homeschooling or navigating the traditional schooling system, the need for companionship and support is universal.

For me, it all started at a Sure Start centre. Attending every session, especially the craft gatherings, became my lifeline. What began as casual conversations over glue and glitter evolved into meaningful connections with fellow parents who understood the highs and lows of parenthood. Eventually, our spouses joined the mix, solidifying our bond and creating a support system that I’m eternally grateful for.

Now, when I see parents struggling with loneliness, I empathise deeply because I’ve been there. And while I may have found my tribe, I know that the journey to friendship isn’t always easy.

Home Education: Finding Community

Embarking on the home educating journey recently has meant finding a whole new community of people, joining home education groups and finding friends who have a similar outlook on life has become a lifeline. These groups and friends not only provided socialisation opportunities for my children but also served as a hub for parents to connect and share experiences. Through craft sessions, group outings, and collaborative learning activities, we forge bonds with families from diverse educational backgrounds.

However, the value of community extends beyond homeschooling circles. For families enrolled in traditional schools, fostering connections with fellow parents can be equally enriching.

Building Connections: A Bullet List Guide

  • Volunteering:
    • Join parent volunteering groups at your child’s school or local community organisations.
    • Offer your time at events, fundraisers, or community projects where other parents are likely to participate.
    • Consider volunteering for activities that align with your interests or hobbies, facilitating organic connections with like-minded individuals.
  • Play Groups:
    • Attend local playgroups organised by community centres, libraries, or religious institutions.
    • Join playgroups specifically tailored to parents with children of similar ages or interests.
    • Participate in parent-child classes such as music, art, or baby gym sessions, fostering connections with other parents in a relaxed environment.
  • Home Education Groups:
    • Explore home education groups in your area through online platforms, community notice boards, or local homeschooling groups.
    • Attend homeschooling co-op classes, field trips, or social gatherings where both homeschooling and traditionally-schooled families are welcome.
    • Engage with online forums or social media groups dedicated to homeschooling, exchanging advice, resources, and arranging meetups with local families.
  • Community Events:
    • Attend neighborhood events, festivals, or farmers’ markets, striking up conversations with other families.
    • Participate in parent-child workshops, storytimes, or nature walks organised by local parks or environmental organisations.
    • Keep an eye out for community-based activities such as charity events, or cultural celebrations where families come together to contribute and connect.
  • Sports and Recreational Activities:
    • Enroll your child in sports leagues, dance classes, or martial arts programs, providing opportunities for both children and parents to interact.
    • Join recreational clubs or hobby groups focusing on shared interests like hiking, gardening, or crafting, fostering friendships beyond the parenting realm.
  • Parenting Classes and Support Groups:
    • Attend parenting workshops, seminars, or support groups offered by community centers, hospitals, or parenting organizations.
    • Participate in parenting classes or discussion groups covering topics relevant to your child’s age or developmental stage, connecting with other parents facing similar challenges and milestones.
  • Workplace Connections (Including Home-Based Business Owners):
    • Explore workplace parent networks or employee resource groups if you work outside the home. If you’re a home-based business owner, consider joining online networking groups or local business associations tailored to your industry.
    • Connect with colleagues or fellow entrepreneurs who are also parents, either through workplace initiatives or virtual networking events. These connections can provide valuable insights and support, both professionally and personally.
    • Take advantage of online platforms offering virtual coworking spaces or business mastermind groups, where you can collaborate with other entrepreneurs, share experiences, and seek advice on balancing work and family life.
    • Consider enrolling in business or personal development courses relevant to your industry or entrepreneurial journey. These courses not only offer opportunities for skill enhancement but also provide a platform for networking and forging connections with like-minded individuals on a similar path. I’ve met so many like-minded people while participating in different development masterminds.
  • Online Communities:
    • Join online parenting forums, social media groups, or virtual communities focused on topics of interest or parenting philosophies.
    • Engage with online platforms offering parent meet-up features or parent matching services, facilitating connections based on shared interests or geographic proximity.

Remember, building friendships and communities takes time and effort, so be patient and proactive in seeking out opportunities to connect with others who share your values and interests.

As we navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood, let’s extend a hand of friendship to those around us, regardless of educational choices.

To my fellow parents, whether in the homeschooling or traditional schooling realm, thank you for being part of this journey. Together, let’s cultivate connections, celebrate diversity, and foster an inclusive environment where every family feels valued and supported.

Love ya! x

Nina x

Join The Simplified Mum Life Village

“From Hobby to Hustle: Making Money From Your Blogging Passion”

Ok, it’s time to dive back into the blogging world! Back in 2019 and 2020, I kicked things up a notch in the blogging sphere. Instead of treating it like a mere side gig I do between naps, I started taking it seriously, almost like a proper job. And you know what? It really paid off… until, well, you know, the whole pandemic situation hit.

During that time, though, I stumbled upon a new passion: mentoring. Funny thing is, blogging and mentoring go hand in hand for me. Not only is blogging fantastic for driving traffic to websites, but it’s also a gateway to turning my love for writing and sharing into a legit income. Imagine being able to work from practically anywhere in the world!

So, if you’re wondering how to monetize your blog, you’re in luck. But before we get into that, let me just say, blogging is more than just a hobby for me—it’s an outlet to share my story and open doors to opportunities I wouldn’t have otherwise.

Now, I get it—some of my family members still scratch their heads, wondering how I make money from this ‘little hobby’ of mine. But let me tell you, there are plenty of ways to turn your blog into a moneymaker.

Your going out again? Events

When you start blogging it really can open up a number of events for you to attend. Some events are free some you will have to pay for. Some you could even get paid to attend.

  • Blogging Events – There are a number of blogging events that you can attend. These are usually something you have to pay to attend. Attending them though can be so beneficial. I have met some amazing people through some that I have attended. It’s often a great pace to find new brands to work with. A place to network with other bloggers. I even ended up speaking at a couple. This can also provide you with more income as some speaker are paid to share their passions.
  • Press Event – A press event is free to attend. They are organised by a brand or venue to help promote a venue or a new product launch. Press events are for “press” or journalists and now bloggers and influencers to attend.
  • Paid to attend Events – You could get a brand to sponsor you to attend certain events.

Sponsorship – Paid Blogging Jobs

Sponsorship Means a company will pay you for promoting their products. It usually means creating a relationship with a brand. Working with them time and again. If you have a Youtube channel you could get a company to sponsor a video. Creating a video of your day and using one part of the video to talk about the product your sponsor company have asked you to talk about.

Paid – Ambassadorship

In a similar style to sponsorship This is a long term relationship with a company. An ambassadorship means you are getting paid to constantly promote a brand. It doesn’t mean that you have to post about it every day or in every post but often the brand will use you images on their social feeds. This is a great way to build each others following up.

Affiliate links and ads

These are links you can add within your posts that lead to a product that can be bought by your reader. You get paid a commision from purchases made from your link. Ads can sit in the sidebar of your blog you can charge companies a fee for having them. A little like what a newspaper or magazine would have. I have one for something that simplifies mum life a little for us anyway at the bottom of my pages

Freebies

Technically they are not free as you are usually sent things to write a review. Some companies will send you things for free so that you can do a write up on the product or add them to a gift guide.

Days Out

As with the freebies, Venues will often have a budget to give “press Passes” out to bloggers in return they usually ask for a blog post or instagram posts that promote their business.

Finding Opportunities

So you’ve started your blog but now you know that you can earn a bit of income from the above sources where do you go to find the work?

  • Email The Brand directly – You can usually find details for press office or pr company for a brand on their website. It’s usually hidden at the bottom in small print. Email them, ask if you can be put on their list of bloggers or if they have any campaigns you can be a part of.
  • Get Tagging – If you post something on social media and it shows off your favourite brand tag them! If you have written a blog post about your day out send the pr or press office a link to your work. you never know they might contact you next time.
  • Search Facebook Groups for Blogger Opportunities. – Facebook is full of blogging groups people post weekly even daily sometimes opportunities that may fit within your blog. Just go and search. Try searching where you live – Suffolk Blogger, Nottinghamshire bloggers etc or try blogger opportunities.
  • Google “Paid Blogging Jobs” – There are loads of sites out there you can google ‘blogging opportunities’ or paid blogging jobs’ on google just like facebook it will show you loads of sites to register with just like Get Blogged . Get Blogged is a site I use often to find paid blogging work.

I hope you find this useful information and can now start earning an income from your hobby.

Good Luck

Nina x

This blog post is a paid collaboration with Get Blogged. I only work with brands that fit mine and my family’s lifestyle.

Why is Mum Life so Exhausting? Understanding Cortisol and Overwhelm

Being a mum can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life, but let’s get real – it can also be extremely tiring. From the early days of endless nappy changes, sleepless nights and working out feeding routines to managing “terrible twos” and school challenges. The daily grind of motherhood can leave even the strongest of mums feeling utterly exhausted and overwhelmed. While a number of factors contribute to this exhaustion, one often overlooked aspect is how cortisol, the stress hormone, shapes the motherhood experience.

Understanding Cortisol:

Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It’s often referred to as the body’s “fight or flight” hormone because it’s released in situations where we perceive danger or threat. While cortisol serves an important function in helping us respond to stressful situations, prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol can have detrimental effects on both our physical and mental health.

building blocks spelling cortisol

Motherhood Memes: A Light-hearted Reflection

Throughout social media, #mumlife memes have become a popular way for mums to connect and commiserate over the challenges of raising children. These memes often humorously depict the trials and tribulations of motherhood, from the chaos of mealtime to the struggle of getting kids to bed. While they may make us laugh or give a knowing nod, behind the humour lies a deeper truth about the realities of mum life stress.

Many of these memes resonate with mums everywhere – the never-ending laundry pile, the constant battle against sticky fingerprints, the struggle to find a moment of peace and quiet. While they may seem trivial on the surface, these everyday stressors can add up, triggering the release of cortisol and contributing to feelings of overwhelm and exhaustion.

Mums are basically part of an experiment  to prove that sleep  is not a crucial part of human life

The Impact of Stress Hormones on Motherhood:

When mums are constantly bombarded with stress nuggets, whether it’s a crying baby or a mountain of dirty dishes, our bodies go into overdrive, releasing cortisol in response to the “perceived threat”.

This chronic stress can manifest in a variety of ways – from fatigue and irritability to anxiety and depression. It can also disrupt sleep, making it even harder for us mums to recharge and recover from the demands of motherhood. In this way, the seemingly harmless humour of motherhood memes can serve as a reminder of the very real challenges that mums face daily.

The Mum’s Stress Cycle:

Now, let’s consider the typical day of a mum. From the moment we wake to the moment we finally collapses into bed at night, we are constantly juggling a million tasks – feeding the kids, getting them ready for school, managing household chores, and perhaps even balancing a job or business or both. Each of these tasks, no matter how mundane, can trigger a stress response in the body, leading to the release of cortisol.

As the day goes on and the stressors pile up, cortisol levels remain elevated, putting the body in a state of chronic stress. This not only leaves mums feeling frazzled and overwhelmed but also has long-term implications for their health. High levels of cortisol have been linked to a host of health problems, including weight gain, immune suppression, and even cardiovascular disease.

The Sleep Struggle:

One of the most significant impacts of elevated cortisol levels on mums is its effect on sleep. Cortisol follows a natural rhythm throughout the day, peaking in the morning to help us wake up and declining as the day goes on to prepare us for sleep. However, in chronically stressed individuals – like many mums – this rhythm can be disrupted, leading to difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep.

So, even when mums do manage to carve out some precious time for rest, they may find themselves lying awake at night, their minds racing with worries and to-do lists. This vicious cycle of stress and sleep deprivation only serves to perpetuate feelings of exhaustion and overwhelm, leaving us mums feeling like we are constantly running on empty.

Breaking the Cycle:

Breaking free from the cycle of stress and exhaustion isn’t easy, but it’s essential for the health and well-being of ourselves and our families. Fortunately, there are steps that we can take to help manage our cortisol levels and reclaim some much-needed balance in our lives.

Here are a few ways you can regain the balance in your life manage those cortisol levels.

  1. Prioritise Self-Care: Self-care isn’t selfish – it’s essential for your well-being. Make time for activities that nourish your body and soul, whether it’s indulging in a bubble bath, reading a book, or practising mindfulness meditation. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so prioritise yourself.
  2. Establish Boundaries: Learn to set boundaries and say no to commitments that drain your energy. It’s okay to delegate tasks and ask for help when needed. By protecting your time and energy, you’ll prevent burnout and preserve your sanity.
  3. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or support groups for help and emotional support. Surround yourself with a network of people who understand and validate your experiences as a mum. You’re not alone on this journey.
  4. Practice Stress-Relief Techniques: Incorporate stress-relief techniques into your daily routine to manage the inevitable stress of motherhood. Whether it’s deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery, find what works for you and make it a priority.
  5. Get Quality Sleep: Prioritise sleep by creating a soothing bedtime routine and maintaining a comfortable sleep environment. Turn off screens before bed and try relaxation techniques to help you unwind. Quality sleep is essential for your physical and mental well-being.
  6. Stay Active: Exercise is a natural mood booster and energy enhancer. Find ways to stay active, whether it’s going for a walk, doing yoga, or dancing around the living room with your kids. Movement is medicine for both body and soul.
  7. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Fuel your body with nutritious foods that provide sustained energy throughout the day. Opt for whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Your body will thank you for it.
  8. Manage Your Time Wisely: Use tools like calendars and to-do lists to prioritise tasks and manage your time effectively. Break tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps and tackle them one at a time. By staying organized, you’ll reduce stress and increase productivity.
  9. Connect with Your Partner: Parenting is a team effort, so communicate openly with your partner and share responsibilities. Support each other through the ups and downs of parenthood, and remember to make time for nurturing your relationship outside of parenting duties.
  10. Be Kind to Yourself: Above all, be kind to yourself. You’re doing the best you can, and it’s okay to have bad days and make mistakes. Practice self-compassion and give yourself permission to rest and recharge when needed. You deserve it.

Motherhood is undoubtedly one of the toughest jobs in the world, but its a marathon not a sprint so it’s no wonder that mums often find themselves feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. By understanding the role of cortisol in shaping the experience of motherhood, mums can begin to take proactive steps to manage their stress levels and prioritise their own well-being. Remember, a happy and healthy mum is better equipped to take care of her family.

So don’t be afraid to make self-care no1 priority! – We deserve it!

Nina x

A Practical Guide to Boosting Your Finances for a Merry Christmas

A Practical Guide to Boosting Your Finances for a Merry Christmas

The festive season is fast approaching, and as a busy and overwhelmed mum, you may be feeling the pressure to make this Christmas special for your family. Whether you’re looking to fund a magical holiday experience or simply want to alleviate some financial stress, there are practical steps you can take right now to make and save extra money. Let’s dive into some tips and strategies that will help you navigate the path to a more financially secure and joy-filled holiday season.

1.Skills and Time

Consider your unique talents and skills, and think about how you can turn them into extra income. Whether it’s freelance writing, graphic design, tutoring, or crafting, there’s a market for your abilities. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Etsy can help you showcase your talents and connect with potential clients or customers. Even dedicating a few hours a week to freelance work or crafting can significantly boost your income by Christmas. You could create courses, or worksheets and sell them through social media or etsy.

2. Declutter and Sell Unwanted Items

Take a good look around your home, and you’re likely to find items that are no longer needed. Hosting a garage sale or using online platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Vinted can help you turn your clutter into cash. This not only declutters your living space but also puts extra money in your pocket for holiday expenses.

3. Embrace Cashback and Coupons

Before you start your holiday shopping, explore cashback websites like TopCashback or Rakuten. These platforms offer cashback rewards for online purchases at various retailers, effectively putting money back into your wallet. Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of coupons and promo codes, which can lead to significant savings on gifts and essentials.

4. Create a Budget and Stick to It

Budgeting is key to financial success, especially during the holiday season. Take some time to plan your Christmas spending, making sure to allocate funds for gifts, decorations, and special meals. Sticking to a budget helps you avoid overspending and ensures you have enough money for everything you need.

5. Plan Homemade Gifts

Consider the heartfelt gesture of giving homemade gifts this Christmas. Whether it’s baked goods, handmade crafts, or personalized photo albums, these gifts are not only thoughtful but also budget-friendly. Get creative and involve your kids in crafting, making it a memorable family activity.

6. Explore Temporary Seasonal Jobs

Many businesses hire extra help during the holiday season. Temporary jobs in retail, customer service, or package delivery can provide an additional income stream leading up to Christmas. These positions often offer flexible hours to accommodate your busy schedule.

7. Set Up a Christmas Savings Account

Opening a separate savings account dedicated to Christmas expenses is a smart way to save throughout the year. You can set up automatic transfers from your main account, allowing you to save gradually without feeling the pinch. Plum helps you to save and invest those extra pennies and some investments even pay you a divided monthly.

8. Plan Potluck Gatherings

If you’re hosting holiday gatherings, consider making them potluck-style. Encourage friends and family to bring a dish to share, reducing your food expenses and allowing you to focus on other aspects of hosting, such as decorations and activities.

9. Shop Smart and Early

Start your Christmas shopping early to take advantage of sales and discounts. Shopping throughout the year not only spreads the financial burden but also allows you to make thoughtful, budget-friendly purchases. My Amazon storefront is full of items ideal for a more simplified Mum Life

10. Keep the Focus on Meaningful Moments

Finally, remember that the true spirit of the holidays lies in spending quality time with loved ones, not in extravagant gifts or lavish decorations. Prioritize meaningful experiences and traditions that don’t require a hefty budget.

With these practical strategies, you can ease financial worries and enjoy a more relaxed and joyful holiday season with your family. By taking proactive steps now, you’ll be well-prepared to create magical memories without breaking the bank. Here’s to a wonderful Simple and financially savvy Christmas!

I am running a masterclass on October 9th where I will go more in depth with getting ready for the festive period if you would like to join totally free follow the link for more information.

Nina x

Please note this blogpost contains affiliate links and as such if you decided to sign up to the platform I may receive a nominal reward for sharing my link.

I have no control over websites and apps outside of my blog so please use them at your risk.

Surviving the Autumn/Winter Bug Season: 10 Tips for Busy Moms

Surviving the Winter Bug Season: 10 Tips for Busy Moms

The Autumn chill is here, and with it comes a flurry of bugs! Over the past week, it feels like everyone under is about to come down with something. As a mom, you know that you can’t really afford to be sick, right? But how do manage mum life if sickness strikes? Here are 10 strategies to help you navigate the challenges.

When illness strikes and sleep becomes a distant memory, anxiety levels soar, and the cloud of depression can loom large.

I’m hopeful that while autumn has just started we may be able to keep the bugs away but if you find yourself in the trenches of motherhood with duties piling up and everyone under the weather, you might be wondering how to survive. Well, here are some tips that have been my saving grace in the pst few years:

Surviving the Winter Bug Season: 10 Tips for Busy Moms

  • **Binge-Worthy Box Sets:** Embrace Netflix during those precious nap times. Snuggle up with a comforting cup of tea and indulge in some guilty pleasures like ‘The Good Place,’ ‘Chesapeake Shores,’ ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,’ or even revisit ‘Doctor Who’ from the Christopher Eccleston era.
  • **Upgrade Your Cuppa:** Trade your regular tea for a vitamin-infused variety. While the claims about boosting your vitamin intake may be debatable, it sure makes you feel a tad better.
  • **Beat Cabin Fever:** Bundle up the family and take a stroll around the block. Sometimes, nothing beats the warmth of home, but some fresh air can work wonders for your spirits.
  • **Online Grocery Shopping:** Stock up on fresh fruits, veggies, and easy-to-prepare meals for the week with an online grocery haul.
  • **Keep It Simple and Healthy:** Don’t overcomplicate meals when you’re tired and low on energy. A simple dish with meat and a couple of frozen veggies can be just as nutritious as a more elaborate meal.
  • **Tech Time for Kids:** Embrace technology for a few days; let the kids play or watch their favorite content on a tablet. It’ll give you a much-needed break.
  • **Cozy Sofa Time:** Set up a cosy movie night on the sofa. Provide some snacks, relax, and enjoy some downtime.
  • **Prioritize Sleep:** Follow your kids’ lead and head to bed early or take a nap when they do. A little extra rest can do wonders.
  • **Housework Can Wait:** Don’t stress about the state of the house; it’ll still be there when you’re feeling better. Focus on the essentials for now.
  • **Call in Reinforcements:** Reach out for help. If you’re fortunate like me to have a mom who can pitch in, don’t hesitate to accept the support. Whether it’s cooking meals or helping with bath time, every bit helps.

Bonus Tip: **This Too Shall Pass:** Always remember, this challenging time will pass, and you and your family will bounce back soon.

You’ve got this! I hope these tips make those never-ending sick days a bit more manageable.

Warm wishes,
Nina x