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      <title>Sandi Parkey&#39;s Pink Zebra Blog on Sandi Parkey&#39;s Pink Zebra Blog </title>
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    <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
    
    <updated>Tue, 15 Nov 2022 11:10:56 UTC</updated>
    
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      <title>How to Create a Workspace to Maximize Productivity | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/how-to-create-a-workspace-to-maximize-productivity-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 Nov 2022 11:10:56 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/how-to-create-a-workspace-to-maximize-productivity-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
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&lt;p&gt;Working from home looks different for everyone. Some of us have an entire room dedicated as an office, while others are making do at the dining room table.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Whatever your workspace looks like, it is important to have it set up and organized for maximum productivity.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;There are many distractions that come with working from home. The rumble of dryer, the dishes piling up in the sink and any little ones running around are sure to keep your attention everywhere other than where you want it to be.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Fortunately, a workspace that promotes productivity can help you squeeze in work when you can—even if it’s just for a little bit!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;keep-it-clean-tidy&#34;&gt;Keep It Clean &amp;amp; Tidy&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;No one feels inspired or motivated when they’re surrounded by a bunch of clutter. If you have an office, be sure to keep everything in its place and tidy up regularly.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If your office doubles as the dining room table, be sure to keep the surface clutter-free. It can be a challenge to maintain an office space when it acts as an eating space, a crafting area or a teen hangout, but it is worth the time and effort to keep it clean. Your productivity will thank you!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;organize-your-space&#34;&gt;Organize Your Space&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Storage containers are a great way to organize your workspace. If your work area constantly changes, getting a little container to keep any supplies needed or a laptop bag to store your computer can help you keep everything together.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When deciding on how you’re going to store any work-related items, consider &lt;em&gt;where&lt;/em&gt; you’re working. If you have to quickly clean up the space after a work session, a portable bag may be your best option, whereas &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-organize-your-desk-6502648&#34;&gt;storage solutions&lt;/a&gt; would look very different in a home office.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;add-bits-of-inspiration&#34;&gt;Add Bits of Inspiration&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;What inspires you to do the best work you can? What puts you in a productive mood?&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Yes, there are distractions galore when you work from home and on your own schedule, so finding motivation is especially important. If you’re working from home with little ones, your work days may look very sporadic and interruptions are inevitable.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Figure out what puts you in a productive, focused mindset. It could be as simple as an &lt;a href=&#34;https://parade.com/973277/jessicasager/inspirational-quotes/&#34;&gt;inspiring quote&lt;/a&gt; on your computer’s background, or a photo of your family on your desk.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Are you ready to boost your family’s income, work from home and on your own schedule? &lt;a href=&#34;https://pinkzebrahome.com/sparkey/join.asp&#34;&gt;Visit my website&lt;/a&gt; today to learn about becoming an independent consultant with Pink Zebra!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/why-self-care-isnt-selfish-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2022 10:05:27 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/why-self-care-isnt-selfish-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
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&lt;p&gt;As moms, we tend to worry about everyone else’s needs before our own. We put ourselves on the back burner and &lt;em&gt;give, give, give&lt;/em&gt; so everyone else is happy.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;It is time to stop this unhealthy mindset because &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/06/well/live/why-self-care-isnt-selfish.html&#34;&gt;self-care is not selfish&lt;/a&gt;!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Before you experience the symptoms associated with &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-symptoms&#34;&gt;burnout&lt;/a&gt;, it is important to nix the &lt;em&gt;self-care is selfish&lt;/em&gt; mentality. Performing regular self-care tasks can help you be the best person you can be—for yourself and your family.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;you-can-give-more-of-yourself&#34;&gt;You Can Give More of Yourself&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;It may seem counterproductive, but self-care allows you to give more of yourself to others. When you’re feeling stressed and burnt out, your family can feel it. Most likely, you’re just giving the bare minimum to make it through the day.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Instead, filling your cup with small bits of self-care allows you to be more present and focused on what matters to you. When we are able to focus on what’s important to us, we tend to feel better about ourselves.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;it-boosts-your-health&#34;&gt;It Boosts Your Health&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Self-care is actually a tool to be used to &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.everydayhealth.com/self-care/&#34;&gt;boost your overall health&lt;/a&gt;. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being can help you deal with daily stressors more effectively.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Constantly &lt;em&gt;going, going, going&lt;/em&gt; can cause feelings of anxiety, and it is important to slow down and do things that help you relax.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;simple-ways-to-practice-self-care-right-now&#34;&gt;Simple Ways to Practice Self Care Right Now&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Self-care doesn&amp;rsquo;t have to be a day-long process where you’re spending a ton of money getting your nails and hair done (but if that’s your thing, great) because it’s so much more than that.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Self-care is setting boundaries and taking a moment to sip hot coffee. It’s enjoying your family time instead of checking emails and whipping up a delicious, homemade dinner.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Self-care looks different for anyone and is not one-size-fits-all. Regardless of how you care for your mental and physical well-being, the important thing is that you feel refreshed, replenished and happy in your life.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Did you know the right scent can promote relaxation? &lt;a href=&#34;https://pinkzebrahome.com/sparkey&#34;&gt;Visit my website&lt;/a&gt; to fill your home with calming, tranquil fragrances today.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Simple Tips to Help Your Day Run Smoother | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/simple-tips-to-help-your-day-run-smoother-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Sat, 15 Oct 2022 10:05:52 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/simple-tips-to-help-your-day-run-smoother-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
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&lt;p&gt;Let’s be real—your days can be hectic. Between school drop-offs, &lt;a href=&#34;https://pinkzebrahome.com/sparkey&#34;&gt;running your own business from home&lt;/a&gt; and finding time to be with family, things can be…chaotic, to say the least.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When you feel like you can never catch up, whether it’s with work, cleaning or quality time with the kids, it may be time to find some productivity hacks that work for you. These tips are simple, easy to do and can be implemented by anyone, any day.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;write-it-down-all-of-it&#34;&gt;Write It Down (&lt;em&gt;All&lt;/em&gt; of It)&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When was the last time you intended on grabbing an item at the store, but walked out without it? Or when you wanted to defrost some meat for dinner, but it slipped your mind and you were left with a hunk of frozen chicken at 6 p.m.?&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When you think of something, &lt;em&gt;anything&lt;/em&gt;, write it down! Make a &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/defining-memories/202105/10-benefits-making-lists&#34;&gt;list for everything&lt;/a&gt;—including business tasks, a to-do list and a grocery list. Don’t forget to list what you’re having for dinner that week, too!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;keep-a-planner-calendar-handy&#34;&gt;Keep a Planner/Calendar Handy&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;To help keep all of your lists organized, a &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.thespruce.com/best-planners-4156499&#34;&gt;planner&lt;/a&gt; will come in handy. One that has enough space for listing everything you need will prove to be so beneficial for you throughout the day.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If you don’t have one already, a family calendar can help you keep track of extracurriculars, appointments and everything else that can easily slip your mind. Keep both your planner and calendar within reach so you can add things and cross them off as needed.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;start-the-day-off-right&#34;&gt;Start the Day Off Right&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;I know, I know—waking up early, especially before the kids, can be a challenge. Who wants to give up precious sleep? But hear me out on this one.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;There are so many &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sleep/benefits-of-waking-up-early#benefits&#34;&gt;benefits to waking up early&lt;/a&gt; including more time for yourself and increased energy. Imagine the peace that comes with sipping your coffee in the quiet morning time, instead of being woken up by a toddler jumping on your bed!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;short-cleaning-sessions&#34;&gt;Short Cleaning Sessions&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If you’re struggling to keep your home tidy, try implementing short cleaning spurts. After dinner, enlist your family to have a &lt;em&gt;family cleaning session&lt;/em&gt; and set a timer for 20 minutes. It may not be the best deep-clean that you’d prefer, but trust me, it will be better than nothing!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Our lives can be crazy, but there is always beauty to be found! When you need a little more clarity to help your days run smoother, these tips can help you organize your time and be more productive.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Looking for a new career opportunity? For more information about becoming an independent consultant with Pink Zebra, visit &lt;a href=&#34;https://pinkzebrahome.com/sparkey&#34;&gt;my website&lt;/a&gt; today!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Make Your Home Cozy This Fall | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/make-your-home-cozy-this-fall-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Sat, 01 Oct 2022 10:10:33 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/make-your-home-cozy-this-fall-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
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&lt;p&gt;As the weather cools down and pumpkin spice season begins, you may be wondering how you can make your home cozy for the cooler time of the year. Before hunkering down for winter, there are many ways to create a warm, cozy atmosphere within your home just in time for fall!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;think-about-fragrance&#34;&gt;Think About Fragrance&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;We all like things that smell nice, especially in our homes! But did you know that aromatherapy actually has &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.realsimple.com/health/mind-mood/aromatherapy-benefits&#34;&gt;benefits&lt;/a&gt;?&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;In addition to reducing stress and improving your mood, aromatherapy can help set the tone for a particular room. For example, you can choose which rooms you want to feel more relaxing (&lt;em&gt;think: bedroom&lt;/em&gt;) and which you want to be more upbeat and energetic (&lt;em&gt;think: office&lt;/em&gt;).&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Are you more of a pumpkin spice or apple cinnamon kind of girl? Fortunately, there are so many options to choose from—and you don’t have to stick with one scent! You can change your home’s fragrance based on your mood that day.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;make-small-decorative-changes&#34;&gt;Make Small Decorative Changes&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Fall is all about &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.realhomes.com/us/design/fall-color-schemes&#34;&gt;warm tones&lt;/a&gt; and seasonal greenery. When you think of fall, your mind probably jumps to red and orange leaves, crisping up and falling from the trees. Bring those elements into your home with warm-toned décor.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;There is no need to completely overhaul your space every season (unless you want to, of course). Switch up the feeling of a room by changing out throw blankets and pillows. Replace a summery tablescape with faux apples and acorns.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;don-t-forget-outside&#34;&gt;Don’t Forget Outside&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Your home is smelling like spiced pear and apple, and your throw blankets have orange and red leaves all over.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Now, it’s time to focus on the &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/outdoor-spaces/decks--porches-and-patios/easy-porch-decorating-ideas-for-fall&#34;&gt;outside of your home&lt;/a&gt;. A seasonal wreath and big pot (or two) of mums placed on your front porch are great ways to spruce up your yard.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;From choosing the right autumn scent for your home to adding seasonal décor, the red, orange and yellow tones of fall are sure to put you in a pumpkin-spice mood!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Looking for the perfect fragrance to make your home smell like crisp, autumn leaves? &lt;a href=&#34;https://pinkzebrahome.com/sparkey&#34;&gt;Shop the fall collection&lt;/a&gt; today!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Decluttering Tips for a Tidy Home | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/decluttering-tips-for-a-tidy-home-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 15 Sep 2022 10:06:12 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/decluttering-tips-for-a-tidy-home-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
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&lt;p&gt;Studies show &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.verywellmind.com/decluttering-our-house-to-cleanse-our-minds-5101511&#34;&gt;clutter has a negative impact on mental health&lt;/a&gt;. As a busy parent, it can be easy to let clutter build up—especially when there just never seems to be enough time to sort through the &lt;em&gt;stuff&lt;/em&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Instead of stressing out about the endless items that fill your home, figuring out ways to declutter can greatly improve your mental health. Use these tips as a guideline to creating a clutter-free, relaxing home for your family!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;declutter-as-you-go&#34;&gt;Declutter as You Go&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Be honest—when is the last time you put a pile of junk mail on your kitchen counter instead of throwing it immediately in the trash? Probably recently.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Instead, the moment you have something in your hand that you &lt;em&gt;intend&lt;/em&gt; to put in the trash, just put it in the trash! No need to let it linger and fill up valuable space in your home.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;The same goes for everything else you have. When you come across a shirt that you no longer love, get rid of it. Find a pair of shoes that have been collecting dust in your closet for way too long? Donate them!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;do-little-bits-at-a-time&#34;&gt;Do Little Bits at a Time&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Waiting for the &lt;em&gt;perfect&lt;/em&gt; time to declutter—when the kids are out of the house and your day is free from distractions—is going to put off any progress you could be making today. In reality, our lives can be chaotic and we have very few moments to ourselves.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Instead of waiting, do small bits of decluttering at a time. When the baby is napping, go through that junk drawer in the kitchen. Picking out an outfit for the day? Look through the rest of your clothing to see if anything stands out that can be given away.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;have-a-home-for-everything&#34;&gt;Have a Home for Everything&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;While &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/tips/g2610/best-organizing-tips/&#34;&gt;organizing&lt;/a&gt; and decluttering are different things, having an organized space can help you determine what fits in your home—and what is excess. Having a home for everything, including important paperwork, can help keep junk from cluttering up your space.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If there are things that simply do not fit anywhere, maybe it’s time to think about letting them go.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;avoid-decluttering-mistakes&#34;&gt;Avoid Decluttering Mistakes&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When you are trying to declutter, there is a possibility that you are making &lt;a href=&#34;https://declutteringschool.com/a-mini-decluttering-course/&#34;&gt;mistakes that could cost you time and make you less efficient&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;One of the most common mistakes is trying to declutter the entire house at once. This is not only unrealistic—it also can be overwhelming!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Keeping your space clutter-free and tidy can provide a tranquil environment for your whole family. To boost relaxation, add my calming &lt;a href=&#34;https://pinkzebrahome.com/sparkey&#34;&gt;sprinkles, soaks and warmers&lt;/a&gt; to your home today!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Self-Care Habits to Start Today | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant </title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/self-care-habits-to-start-today-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 01 Sep 2022 10:11:23 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/self-care-habits-to-start-today-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
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&lt;p&gt;As a parent, self-care usually comes after everything (and everyone) else. As moms, we tend to take care of the kids, the house and everything in between before we focus on ourselves—and that’s &lt;em&gt;if&lt;/em&gt; we have the energy at the end of the day!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Instead, try putting yourself first for small periods of time throughout the day. That way, self-care doesn’t feel like a massive endeavor that you’ll never have time for.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If you’re interested in learning about upping your self-care game, read on to see my suggestions!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;prioritize-your-interests&#34;&gt;Prioritize Your Interests&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;What do you love to do? What were your hobbies before becoming a parent? Whatever they were, you shouldn’t stop once you have a family!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If you enjoy creating, take a few moments every morning to draw. Keep a drawing pad on the kitchen table and while you’re sipping your morning coffee, doodle away.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Were you a hardcore yogi before life became busy with diaper changes? A few minutes of stretching and yoga poses before bed should be part of your routine!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;The goal here is to decide what you enjoy doing—what fills your cup—and do it in small increments throughout the day.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;breathe-in-fresh-air&#34;&gt;Breathe in Fresh Air&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Breathing in fresh air has many &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/medical/what-are-the-health-benefits-of-fresh-air/ar-AASGm1e&#34;&gt;benefits&lt;/a&gt;, including reducing stress levels. Step outside first thing in the morning or take the kids to the playground to reap these benefits.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;It doesn’t take much to enjoy fresh air—just a few deep breaths will do the trick.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;move-your-body&#34;&gt;Move Your Body&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;We all know that exercise is important, but sometimes the idea of an hourlong trip to the gym seems impossible. Try small bursts of movement instead!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;A little walk around the neighborhood gets your body moving without the large time commitment. This is a bit more doable, especially with kids in tow.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;eat-nourishing-foods&#34;&gt;Eat Nourishing Foods&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Did you know &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.healthyplace.com/self-help/food-mental-health/what-are-best-foods-your-mental-health&#34;&gt;what you eat can impact your mental health&lt;/a&gt;? For example, foods high in B-vitamins can reduce irritability!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Eating nutrient-dense foods is absolutely a form of self-care.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;get-some-zs&#34;&gt;Get Some Zs&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;I know, I know—sleep can be hard to come by when life gets so busy! &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/benefits-of-sleep&#34;&gt;Prioritizing rest should be at the top of your self-care to-do list&lt;/a&gt;, since that’s when your body repairs and restores itself.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;What daily habits do you practice for regular self-care?&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;If you want to make aromatherapy part of your daily self care routine, check out the uplifting &lt;a href=&#34;https://pinkzebrahome.com/sparkey/join.asp&#34;&gt;soaks and fragrances&lt;/a&gt; available today!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Start Preparing to Send the Kids Back to School | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/start-preparing-to-send-the-kids-back-to-school-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 15 Aug 2022 10:06:10 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/start-preparing-to-send-the-kids-back-to-school-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-consultant/</guid>
      <description>

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&lt;p&gt;As the summer starts winding down, we all have back to school on the brain. From purchasing new clothes to buying a slew of classroom supplies, the first day of classes is quickly approaching.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If you get stressed by the thought of prepping for a new school year, you aren’t alone! The summer fun tends to fly by too fast and before you know it, you’re shopping for binders and gel pens.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;With these simple tips, you can ease yourself and your family into the chaos that may come with a new school year!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;ease-into-a-routine&#34;&gt;Ease Into a Routine&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;So, your kids have been making their own schedules and any semblance of a routine has gone out of the window. For a relaxing summer, this works fine! For kids adjusting back to a normal school day, it doesn’t work as well.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Start by easing into a more manageable school-year routine. For example, begin moving &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.sleepfoundation.org/children-and-sleep/bedtime-routine&#34;&gt;bedtime&lt;/a&gt; up little by little, and having your kids wake up earlier. Don’t try this cold turkey—it’ll make for grumpy kids and an even grumpier mom.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Make small adjustments, over time, until bedtime and wake up time are closer to a typical school day routine.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h3 id=&#34;make-a-list-or-2-or-3&#34;&gt;Make a List (or 2&amp;hellip;or 3)&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Don’t let the five boxes of tissue paper, 14 three-ring binders and gallon of hand sanitizer you have to buy before school starts overwhelm you. Instead, create an &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/10-ways-to-make-better-to-do-lists&#34;&gt;organized list&lt;/a&gt; of &lt;em&gt;everything&lt;/em&gt; your child needs on the first day.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;List classroom supplies, new clothing needed (because we all know last year’s clothes won’t fit!) and everything you can think of. If you prefer to buy at different shops, you can even list everything per store for more organization. With multiple kids, create separate lists.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Does your child need a haircut? List that, too! It also may be a good idea to list any end-of-summer activities you want to do as a family, before the seasons change.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;have-a-conversation&#34;&gt;Have a Conversation&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Kids can feel overwhelmed by sudden change, so instead of just putting them to bed early one night and expecting them to wake up pumped for school the next morning, talk to them about it. Start the conversation when you’re buying all of the back-to-school items, and you can even include them in the process.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Let your kids know about everything that’s going on, from after-school programs to their new teacher’s name. Give them time to prepare themselves for the new season ahead.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;How are you feeling about the summer coming to an end? The back-to-school season can be a stressful time, but it doesn’t have to be! Fall is a beautiful season and has many opportunities for family fun, too.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;The back-to-school season means fall is quickly approaching! To ease back into the cooler weather, check out the Pink Zebra &lt;a href=&#34;https://pinkzebrahome.com/sparkey&#34;&gt;products&lt;/a&gt; for fall scents and warming fragrances.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Productivity Tips When Working from Home | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/productivity-tips-when-working-from-home-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 01 Aug 2022 10:12:04 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/productivity-tips-when-working-from-home-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
      <description>

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&lt;p&gt;While working from home may be a blessing, it can also pose challenges that we don’t experience when commuting to an office.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;As an independent consultant, you experience flexibility and reap the benefits of working with Pink Zebra—but it is up to you to put in the work! With these productivity tips, you are sure to excel in any work from home position.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;create-a-designated-work-space&#34;&gt;Create a Designated Work Space&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Whether you have an entire room dedicated to being an office or have to carve out a little space in the dining room, it is so important to have a designated area to get work done. This space exudes productive energy and encourages creativity every time you sit down.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When you’re in this space, your family knows you mean business. Your computer and planner fit perfectly and your cup of coffee (or tea) has a place within reach.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Remember to keep this area tidy and organized—no one feels productive in clutter!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;get-ready-every-morning&#34;&gt;Get Ready Every Morning&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;I know, I know—one of the perks of working a flexible job from home is the ability to answer emails in your pajamas. But hear me out! Studies show that how you present yourself can influence your &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-getting-dress-affects-your-mood_l_5ffdccf1c5b691806c4ce049&#34;&gt;mental well-being&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Every morning, put on a fresh clothes, wash your face and comb your hair. You don’t have to get all dressed up like you’re going to the office, but rather differentiate between relaxing at home and working from home.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;set-a-routine-and-set-boundaries&#34;&gt;Set a Routine (and Set Boundaries)&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Nothing starts your day on the right foot like a solid &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.verywellmind.com/morning-routine-4174576&#34;&gt;morning routine&lt;/a&gt;! The benefits of beginning the day on your own terms are endless.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;In addition to a morning routine, set routines for the rest of the day. For example, if you have a specific time that you want to get work done, let your family know so you can (hopefully) be undisturbed.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Communicating the time frame in which you’d like to be productive helps set boundaries with others in the home. While everyone’s situation looks different, this could be incredibly helpful when getting work completed!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Ready to take the leap and work from home? Learn more about &lt;a href=&#34;https://pinkzebrahome.com/sparkey/join.asp&#34;&gt;joining my team&lt;/a&gt; today!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Rediscover the Joy in Motherhood | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/rediscover-the-joy-in-motherhood-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Fri, 15 Jul 2022 10:05:54 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/rediscover-the-joy-in-motherhood-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
      <description>

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&lt;p&gt;Motherhood is one of the most beautiful aspects of our lives. It can feel overwhelming at times, as our children grow and develop their own personalities, but there is always joy to be found.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When you’re feeling burnt out with little ones crawling all over you, read this blog to rediscover the beauty in motherhood!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;observe-your-children&#34;&gt;Observe Your Children&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Yes, really. Just watch them. Watch them play, be silly and listen to their little voices.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Don’t think about the fact that they just spilled Cheerios everywhere, and are now squashing them with their little feet. Instead, watch them dance to music only they can hear.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Watching your children enjoy life will bring such light to your heart. Their youth will bring energy to your soul. Remember why you became a mother in the first place—to love and raise those beautiful little beings. They may drive you crazy, but you love them regardless!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;play-like-a-child&#34;&gt;Play Like a Child&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When was the last time you got messy? Really, really messy? Children get messy all of the time and don’t think twice about it, so why don’t you join them?&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Messy play has a TON of &lt;a href=&#34;https://learningforlittles.com/messy-play-benefits/&#34;&gt;benefits&lt;/a&gt; for children, so why wouldn’t adults benefit, as well?&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Shake your sillies out, use voices for different characters when you read to your little ones and learn to embrace a messy finger painting session. Engaging with your children through play helps create an unbreakable bond and improves your relationship all around.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;have-interests-outside-of-motherhood&#34;&gt;Have Interests Outside of Motherhood&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Has motherhood taken all of your time? Have you lost all of your interests and hobbies outside of changing diapers and chopping food into little bite-sized pieces? Believe it or not, moms need hobbies, too!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Think about what interested you before you became a mother. What made you feel fulfilled and satisfied? What were you good at? Moms have numerous &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.popsugar.com/family/Skills-Moms-Have-36171094&#34;&gt;skills&lt;/a&gt; that can be applied to hobbies or work-from-home jobs.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;When you’re ready to put your energy toward a fulfilling career that allows you the flexibility to still spend time with your babies, join my &lt;a href=&#34;https://sandiparkey.squarespace.com/&#34;&gt;team&lt;/a&gt; today!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>How About a Little Summer Self-Care? | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/how-about-a-little-summer-self-care-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Jul 2022 10:11:10 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/how-about-a-little-summer-self-care-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
      <description>

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&lt;p&gt;I don&amp;rsquo;t know about you, but by the time summer rolls around, I&amp;rsquo;m ready for a little R&amp;amp;R. The first half of the year can sometimes feel so exhausting, especially if you have kids navigating their way through the second half of the school year!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Whether you have kids out for summer break or are on your own, summer offers delightful opportunities to fit in some meaningful rest. Carve out time and space this season to give yourself the &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/external/2018/07/15-activities-for-your-summer-self-care-checklist/&#34;&gt;self-care you need and deserve&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Not sure where to begin? I have some ideas!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;spend-some-time-outdoors&#34;&gt;Spend Some Time Outdoors&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;There&amp;rsquo;s no doubt that it&amp;rsquo;s hot outside. But that doesn&amp;rsquo;t mean that you shouldn&amp;rsquo;t indulge in some outdoor time!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Even the most heat-averse of us can &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.sharp.com/health-news/5-ways-being-outdoors-can-make-you-healthier-and-happier.cfm&#34;&gt;benefit from time spent outdoors&lt;/a&gt;, whether you spread a blanket in the park for a picnic or simply take your latest book outside to the patio.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;enjoy-the-fruits-and-veggies-of-the-season&#34;&gt;Enjoy the Fruits (and Veggies) of the Season&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;There&amp;rsquo;s truly nothing better than fresh fruit! Whether you grow it yourself in a backyard garden or hit up the local farmers market, fill up your plate with local produce.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Your health—and your tastebuds—will reap the benefits!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;try-a-little-summer-cleaning&#34;&gt;Try a Little &lt;em&gt;Summer&lt;/em&gt; Cleaning&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;While spring-cleaning gets all the headlines, doing a little decluttering at any time of year can work wonders for your mind.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;You don&amp;rsquo;t have to clean out the whole house, either. Clear out the junk drawer, pick a cabinet to organize or even simply make quick work of the bathroom counter.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;try-a-new-workout&#34;&gt;Try a New Workout&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Stuck in a workout regimen doing the same exercises over and over again? That&amp;rsquo;s a recipe for workout burnout!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Seize the opportunity to exercise your body and your mind this summer by trying a new workout or two. Step into a new-to-you class at the local gym, or simply tune in to a class on Zoom.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;get-out-in-the-community&#34;&gt;Get Out in the Community&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Summer usually brings tons of opportunities to explore your local community. Organizations often plan events and gatherings to suit a favorite of tastes.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Head over to an outdoor movie. Indulge your shopping habit at a flea market or estate sale. Or hit up a concert.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Give yourself a little extra self-care by adding a new fragrance or two to your home! &lt;a href=&#34;https://sandiparkey.squarespace.com/&#34;&gt;Visit my website&lt;/a&gt; to check out the latest offerings.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Christmas in July. Yes, Really! | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/christmas-in-july-yes-really-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jun 2022 10:06:08 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/christmas-in-july-yes-really-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
      <description>

&lt;p style=&#34;clear:both;&#34;&gt;
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&lt;p&gt;It’s hot out there! No, really…it’s hot. What better time for taking stock of your Christmas decor than a hot July day?&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;No, I’m not kidding. You want to soak up the air-conditioned coolness of your house, so why not be a little productive at the same time?&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Take advantage of the &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.hallmarkchannel.com/christmas-in-july&#34;&gt;Hallmark Channel’s lineup of Christmas in July movies&lt;/a&gt; and take a good look at your holiday supplies. Read on for some tips on getting started!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;why-now&#34;&gt;Why Now?&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;OK, so before we dive in, you may wonder why we’re even thinking about Christmas in the middle of the year. I have a simple answer—it’s because it will save you headaches and stress later!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Whether you’re a before-Thanksgiving decorator or a never-until-after-Thanksgiving advocate, whenever you prepare to bring out your &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/christmas-ideas/how-to/g2203/christmas-decoration-ideas/&#34;&gt;holiday decor&lt;/a&gt;, odds are that you’re a little overwhelmed by it all.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;By the time you open up your plastic totes of decor, it’s time to deck the halls. There’s really no time to consider what you have and what you need…or what you need to get rid of.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Start here:&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;haul-out-the-goodies&#34;&gt;Haul Out the Goodies&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Open up the storage closet and take stock of what you have. Look at everything holiday-related, including your interior decor, your outdoor lights and decorations, your stockpile of gifts, and even your wrapping supplies.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Do you even like the stuff you have? Is there something you have too much of? What about an item you need more of? Make yourself a list.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;don-t-put-it-back-away&#34;&gt;&lt;em&gt;Don’t&lt;/em&gt; Put It Back Away&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When you’re done considering what you have, don’t simply pile it all back into the storage bins. If it’s unusable or unwanted, toss it or give it away!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If you have enough stuff that you simply don’t like or don’t need, have your friends do a similar cleanout, then swap to fill in the gaps in what you need.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h4 id=&#34;start-perusing-the-ads-sales&#34;&gt;Start Perusing the Ads &amp;amp; Sales&lt;/h4&gt;

&lt;p&gt;It’s a whole lot easier to shop for Christmas decor and supplies if you don’t feel rushed. Keep an eye out for sales, both in town and online, that can help you even out your decor or your wrapping paper stock.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;By the time the holiday season actually rolls around, you should be amply stocked up and ready to enjoy the season, stress-free.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Scents can make or break a season! Ready to add to your supplies? &lt;a href=&#34;https://sandiparkey.squarespace.com/&#34;&gt;Check out the catalog&lt;/a&gt; of my current offerings.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>It’s Time to Celebrate Dad | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/its-time-to-celebrate-dad-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jun 2022 10:10:39 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/its-time-to-celebrate-dad-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
      <description>

&lt;p style=&#34;clear:both;&#34;&gt;
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&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;June 19 is right around the corner, and you know what that means? It’s time to celebrate dad!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If you are looking to do &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/fathers-day&#34;&gt;something different this Father’s Day&lt;/a&gt;, then read on! I have some ideas about to make this Father’s Day celebration stand out.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;make-it-a-day-to-remember&#34;&gt;Make It a Day to Remember&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When you think of Father’s Day, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Perhaps it’s buying him a new tie or even a set of golf balls. While I am sure your dad would be excited to get those gifts, what if you went outside the box to give him something more meaningful?&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If your dad is one of those people who is hard to shop for when it comes to presents, have no fear. These ideas are ones that you won’t have to worry about him returning or already having at home:&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;a-good-conversation&#34;&gt;A Good Conversation&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;When was the last time you sat down with your dad and truly talked? I’m not talking about discussing the weather or a sports team—I’m talking about getting to know more about your dad or the dad figure in your life.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Have you ever asked him about his childhood? What about going down memory lane and talking about some of your favorite memories growing up with him? You could even mention something that your dad would have never thought you remembered, which could really mean a lot.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;a-friendly-competition&#34;&gt;A Friendly Competition&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Consider making an obstacle course in the backyard if the weather permits. Or you can even break out an old board game that your family used to enjoy playing when you were growing up, like Scrabble.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If you are really interested in trying an obstacle course and the weather calls for rain, it’s OK! Do not have any fear, as you can &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.familyeducation.com/fun/indoor-activities/indoor-obstacle-course&#34;&gt;create an obstacle course indoors.&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;a-gift-from-the-heart&#34;&gt;A Gift From the Heart&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Don’t discount the feeling that a homemade gift can bring. Many times we think only moms enjoy homemade gifts. However, dads like things made by their children, too!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Therefore, consider making your dad something this Father’s Day, even if it is something simple as a card or a drawing of you and him.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Are you looking for a different type of Father’s Day gift? &lt;a href=&#34;https://sandiparkey.squarespace.com/&#34;&gt;Visit my website&lt;/a&gt; today to check out my Summer 2022 collection of fragrances!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>How to Put Some Joy in Your Summer | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/how-to-put-some-joy-in-your-summer-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 15 May 2022 10:05:01 UTC</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/how-to-put-some-joy-in-your-summer-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
      <description>

&lt;p style=&#34;clear:both;&#34;&gt;
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&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;While the first official day of summer (June 21) might still be a few weeks away, that doesn&amp;rsquo;t mean I don&amp;rsquo;t already have summer days on the brain. I don&amp;rsquo;t know about you, but I am ready to make the summer of 2022 one to remember, especially as the last few years have been difficult to enjoy.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Now that our seasons are getting somewhat back to normal, I plan on trying to get back to all the things I enjoy during the summer months in addition to trying some new ideas this season. What about you?&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;school-s-out-for-summer&#34;&gt;School’s Out for Summer&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;There is nothing like making memories in the summer. Even as I write this blog, I have some summers that stick out more than others in the memory book. Are you ready to make 2022 one of the years your family looks back on as a summer to remember? So am I!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;While it isn&amp;rsquo;t financially friendly to go out every day in the summer and spend money on fun, there are a number of activities you can do as a family that are budget-friendly or even cost nothing!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;For instance, look at your own backyard in order to have some fun this summer. With a little effort, you can &lt;a href=&#34;https://morningchores.com/fun-backyard-activities/&#34;&gt;make your backyard into a summer paradise&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;For one, you can enjoy your lunch outdoors by making a picnic in your own backyard. Or you can create an obstacle course in your backyard so that you can host a family-friendly competition. Then, at night, you can bring out all the pillows and blankets and enjoy a movie under the stars in your own backyard!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Of course, you don&amp;rsquo;t want to spend all your summer days in the backyard. So, branch out to see what your local community has to offer families.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Many local libraries will offer fun days for children, including reading contests, story time or craft days. You can also visit nearby farmers markets, where you can gather fresh fruits and vegetables as a family and then &lt;a href=&#34;https://frugalfamilyhome.com/home/homemaking/how-to-cook-dinner-every-night-for-your-family-10-tips-to-get-it-done&#34;&gt;make a meal together at home&lt;/a&gt;!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Are you starting to decorate your home for the summer? &lt;a href=&#34;https://sandiparkey.squarespace.com/&#34;&gt;Visit my website&lt;/a&gt; today to check out the Summer 2022 collection of fragrances!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Make It a Memorial Day to Remember | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/make-it-a-memorial-day-to-remember-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 01 May 2022 06:00:23 -0400</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/make-it-a-memorial-day-to-remember-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
      <description>

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&lt;p&gt;May has arrived, which means Memorial Day is right around the corner. Are you ready for the long weekend? I know I am!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;While last Memorial Day looked differently, many of you (like me) might be ready to have more fun this year and enjoy the day with family and friends. In fact, you might even be looking for ways to make up for last year and make this the best Memorial Day yet!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;planning-the-perfect-holiday-weekend&#34;&gt;Planning the Perfect Holiday Weekend&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Whether you are planning a low-key Memorial Day celebration with family or you are inviting friends, there are still a number of ways you can enjoy the long weekend.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If the weather behaves, enjoy your Memorial Day meals outside. &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.delish.com/entertaining/g1634/unusual-grilling-recipes/&#34;&gt;Break out the grill, and cook up&lt;/a&gt; some of your favorite foods to enjoy. When setting the table, keep it simple.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;You can cover the tables with a checkered cloth while adding a few floral arrangements spread out in mason jars to add to the decor.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If you don&amp;rsquo;t feel like grilling, no problem! You could always make your Memorial Day celebration a pizza party. That way you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your guests.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Don&amp;rsquo;t feel like necessarily having a Memorial Day cookout? Switch things up by hosting a Memorial Day brunch! Then, after the meal, you and your loved ones can enjoy a day at the pool or a cookout at another friend&amp;rsquo;s house.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Don&amp;rsquo;t forget to plan out the fun! Bring out a variety of games for people to be able to enjoy while outside. Volleyball, croquet, horseshoes, ring toss and cornhole are some of my favorites.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Finally, &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/g27432518/memorial-day-movies/&#34;&gt;consider ending the night with a movie&lt;/a&gt;! You can bring out chairs, blankets and pillows, and enjoy a family-friendly movie on a projector outside. Of course, don&amp;rsquo;t forget the popcorn!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Are you attending a Memorial Day cookout this holiday? &lt;a href=&#34;https://sandiparkey.squarespace.com/&#34;&gt;Visit my website&lt;/a&gt; today to check out my current collection of fragrances that make for the perfect hostess gift!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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      <title>Celebrate Mom This Mother’s Day | Sandi Parkey, Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</title>
      <link>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/celebrate-mom-this-mothers-day-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</link>
      <pubDate>Fri, 15 Apr 2022 06:00:21 -0400</pubDate>
      <author>Sandi Parkey Pink Zebra Independent Consultant</author>
      <guid>http://sandiparkeypinkzebra.socialjoey.com/post/celebrate-mom-this-mothers-day-sandi-parkey-pink-zebra-independent-consultant/</guid>
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&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;“A mother is your first friend, your best friend, your forever friend.”—Unknown&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Can you believe that Mother’s Day is right around the corner? Do you have anything planned for May 8? I know I am still working out all the details of what I am going to do for the occasion.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;As I start gathering my list of ideas together, I thought I would share some of the Mother’s Day suggestions I have with you. Read on!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h2 id=&#34;5-ways-to-celebrate-the-moms-in-your-life&#34;&gt;5 Ways to Celebrate the Moms in Your Life&lt;/h2&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Looking for a fun way to honor your mom or even the aunt who’s like a mom? Plan a spa day—and go along! There’s truly nothing better than a girls’ day, especially when you’re also being pampered. If in-spa pampering is a little out of your budget, create a spa experience in the comfort of home with facials, manis and pedis!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If your family is all about good food, &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/mothers-day/g676/mothers-day-brunch-recipes/&#34;&gt;cook up the perfect breakfast in bed&lt;/a&gt; for your mama to help start her Mother’s Day celebration. Better yet, you could invite her over for a Mother’s Day brunch, where you can serve her favorite breakfast foods, along with mimosas!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If the mom in your life is crafty, you might plan a day or night together taking on an activity, like painting pottery or creating a painting or sign. There are all sorts of businesses popping up these days that allow you to get your craft on! And they’re usually reasonably priced, too.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Families that love the outdoors might take advantage of a beautiful day by taking mom out for a family hike! There are lots of trails out there, ranging in difficulty from easy to exhausting, so there’s something for everyone. Pack a picnic in your backpacks to enjoy along the way or once you get to your destination.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Finally, rather than going to the movies, &lt;a href=&#34;https://www.countryliving.com/life/entertainment/g26871507/mothers-day-movies/&#34;&gt;why not host a movie date in your own&lt;/a&gt; backyard? If the weather is nice, you could set up pillows and blankets on the patio while showing a movie on a rented movie screen. Don’t forget the popcorn!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;Is there a better gift to give your mom this Mother’s Day than a Sprinkle and Shade? &lt;a href=&#34;https://sandiparkey.squarespace.com/&#34;&gt;Visit my website&lt;/a&gt; today to check out my current collection of fragrances!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
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