The Music Mom: Eileen Carey

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Winter’s Wisdom: 6 Lessons We Can Learn From the Coldest Season

Winter, with its frosty charm and cozy evenings, isn’t just a season; it’s a masterclass in life. As moms, we juggle the symphony of our families’ lives, much like a maestro conducts an orchestra. Here are six winter-inspired lessons that resonate with the distinct rhythm of motherhood.

  1. Embrace the Silence
    Winter teaches us the beauty of stillness. In those quiet moments, when the world seems to pause under a blanket of snow, we find clarity. It’s in the silent gaps between our busy schedules, the pauses between the notes, where the magic happens. Cherish the quiet—it’s where we often hear the most important things, like the soft giggle of a child or the whisper of our own thoughts.
  2. Rhythms Change
    Just as winter gives way to spring, our lives follow changing rhythms. The lullabies of the infant years transform into the rock anthems of the teenage era. Embrace each season of motherhood, knowing that each brings its own melody and memories. And remember, no matter how long the winter, spring always follows.
  3. Gather Around the Fire
    Winter is synonymous with gathering around the warmth of a fire. This is a reminder to cherish our community: family, friends, fellow music moms. Share stories, sing songs, and bask in the warmth of each other’s company. The bonds we forge are the embers that keep the cold at bay.
  4. Layer Up
    Winter teaches us the art of layering up to combat the cold. In life, it’s about building layers of experience, resilience, and love. Each layer, from the thin cardigans of daily challenges to the thick parkas of life’s major hurdles, prepares us for whatever the weather of life throws at us.
  5. Appreciate the Contrast
    Winter’s stark landscape, with its bare trees against the snow, shows us beauty in contrast. In our lives, it’s the contrast between hectic days and calm evenings, between solo rehearsals and ensemble performances, that creates a beautiful tapestry. Celebrate the contrasts; they make the picture complete.
  6. The Promise of Renewal
    Finally, winter carries the promise of renewal. Each snowflake, unique and fleeting, reminds us of the preciousness of each moment. It’s a time to reflect, to rest, and to prepare for the burst of energy that comes with spring. As moms, it’s a chance to renew our commitment to our families and to the music that moves us.

As the winter season unfolds, let’s tune our hearts to these lessons. They’re more than just survival tips for the colder months; they’re melodic words of wisdom for the soul, harmonizing perfectly with the symphony we call motherhood.

So stay warm, stay cheerful, and keep the music playing all winter long! 🎵❄️🔥

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 Posted on December 18, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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15 Songs That’ll Make This Turkey Day Truly Thanksgrooving

As the aroma of turkey and pumpkin pie fills the air, it’s time to set the stage for a Thanksgiving celebration filled with gratitude, joy, and, of course, the perfect musical backdrop. In this blog post, I’m excited to share with you a handpicked list of 15 country and pop songs that perfectly capture the spirit of Thanksgiving.

So, gather your loved ones, cue the tunes, and let the sweet sounds of thanks fill your home!

  1. “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” – Sly and the Family Stone
    • Let’s kick things off with a funky classic. Sly and the Family Stone’s upbeat “Thank You” is a groovy reminder to be thankful for the good times and the music that brings us together.
    • Listen Here
  2. “Grateful” – Rita Ora
    • Rita Ora’s soulful “Grateful” is a beautiful expression of gratitude and reflection. Its powerful lyrics remind us to appreciate the journey and the people who make it special.
    • Listen Here
  3. “Simple Things” – Miguel
    • Thanksgiving is about appreciating life’s simple pleasures. Miguel’s “Simple Things” is a smooth and soulful ode to finding joy in the uncomplicated moments we often overlook.
    • Listen Here
  4. “Thanksgiving Theme” – Vince Guaraldi Trio
    • You can’t go wrong with a classic. The Vince Guaraldi Trio’s jazzy “Thanksgiving Theme” from “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” is a nostalgic tune that adds a touch of whimsy to your holiday ambiance.
    • Listen Here
  5. “Thanksgiving Song” – Mary Chapin Carpenter
    • Mary Chapin Carpenter’s heartfelt “Thanksgiving Song” is a folksy gem that paints a picture of a warm and inviting holiday gathering. Its acoustic charm and genuine lyrics make it a Thanksgiving must-have.
    • Listen Here
  6. “Blessings” – Chance the Rapper
    • Chance the Rapper’s “Blessings” is a rap anthem that reflects on gratitude and the blessings we often take for granted. Its uplifting message and soulful beats make it an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving playlist.
    • Listen Here
  7. “Over the River and Through the Woods” – The O’Neill Brothers Group
    • Taking a nod from the traditional Thanksgiving song, The O’Neill Brothers Group’s piano rendition of “Over the River and Through the Woods” brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your holiday atmosphere.
    • Listen Here
  8. “Give Thanks and Praises” – Bob Marley
    • Bob Marley’s reggae-infused “Give Thanks and Praises” is a soul-stirring call to appreciate life’s blessings and express gratitude. Its laid-back rhythm and positive vibes make it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving playlist.
    • Listen Here
  9. “Thanksgiving Day” – Ray Davies
    • Ray Davies, the legendary voice of The Kinks, brings us “Thanksgiving Day,” a reflective song that captures the essence of the holiday. Its melodic charm and Davies’ distinctive vocals make it a unique and enjoyable Thanksgiving tune.
    • Listen Here
  10. “What a Wonderful World” – Louis Armstrong
    • Closing our musical Thanksgiving journey is the timeless “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. This classic celebrates the beauty of life, love, and the simple joys that surround us—a perfect note to end your Thanksgiving celebration on.
    • Listen Here
  11. “Thankful” – Kelly Clarkson
    • Kelly Clarkson’s “Thankful” is a pop anthem that echoes the sentiment of gratitude. Its upbeat tempo and powerful vocals make it a spirited addition to your Thanksgiving playlist.
    • Listen Here
  12. “Forever Country” – Artists of Then, Now & Forever
    • A country tribute featuring multiple artists, “Forever Country” is a harmonious blend of classic country tunes. It’s a heartwarming addition to your Thanksgiving playlist, celebrating the rich heritage of country music.
    • Listen Here
  13. “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” – John Denver
    • John Denver’s upbeat and folksy “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is a lively addition to your Thanksgiving playlist. Its cheerful melody and spirited lyrics will have everyone tapping their toes.
    • Listen Here
  14. “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep” – Bing Crosby
    • Bing Crosby’s timeless voice in “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep” is a classic choice for a Thanksgiving playlist. Its soothing melody encourages reflection on the blessings in our lives.
    • Listen Here
  15. “My Front Porch Looking In” – Lonestar
    • Lonestar’s country hit “My Front Porch Looking In” is a heartfelt song about appreciating life’s simple joys. Its warm and sincere tone makes it a fitting choice for your Thanksgiving celebration.
    • Listen Here

As you gather around the table with loved ones and give thanks for the blessings in your life, I hope these songs will create a mood that enhances the warmth and joy of the occasion.

Wishing you and your family a Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and the sweet melodies of gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving!

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 Posted on November 22, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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Halloween Hits: 13 Spooktacular Tunes for Boys and Ghouls

Happy Halloween, my fellow moms and music lovers! It’s time to brew up some musical magic for our little ones. Halloween isn’t just about costumes and candy—it’s also a fantastic opportunity to introduce your kids to the fun side of music with a specially curated playlist.

On that note, I’m sharing a “Spooktacular Tunes for Tiny Ghouls” playlist—a collection of 13 kid-appropriate Halloween songs that will have your youngsters grooving and giggling in no time. From playful monsters to dancing skeletons, we’ve got all the ingredients to make your Halloween celebration a memorable and melodic one.

So, grab your broomsticks, and let’s dive into this burning musical cauldron!

  1. “Monster Mash” – Let’s kick things off with a classic. The Monster Mash is a graveyard smash that’s perfect for a Halloween dance party. Get ready to do the monster mash, folks!
    https://youtu.be/vNuVifA7DSU
  2. “Purple People Eater” – Ever wondered what a one-eyed, one-horned, flying purple people eater does? This catchy tune will answer that question with a playful twist.
    https://youtu.be/5jV-E09efRE
  3. “Ghostbusters” – Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters! This theme song is iconic, and your kids will love joining the ghost-hunting fun.
    https://youtu.be/Fe93CLbHjxQ
  4. “Thriller” – A Halloween playlist without “Thriller”? Unthinkable! Let your little ones practice their best zombie dance moves.
    https://youtu.be/sOnqjkJTMaA
  5. “The Addams Family Theme” – Snap, snap! The Addams Family theme is quirky and catchy, making it a must-have for your Halloween soundtrack.
    https://youtu.be/X6QzbvH-ZNo
  6. “This Is Halloween” – From the movie “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” this song is delightfully spooky and utterly captivating.
    https://youtu.be/ZVuToMilP0A
  7. “Witch Doctor” – Oo-ee-oo-ah-ah, ting, tang, walla-walla-bing-bang! This song’s infectious rhythm is guaranteed to get the kids moving.
    https://youtu.be/L95bykOhsVw
  8. “I Want Candy” – Halloween and candy are practically synonymous. This song adds a sweet and catchy twist to the celebration.
    https://youtu.be/JoXVYSV4Xcs
  9. “Ghost Riders in the Sky” – A little bit of country with a ghostly twist. Johnny Cash’s deep voice tells a captivating Halloween tale.
    https://youtu.be/3LtmZM0OWO8
  10. “The Skeleton Dance” – Get ready to dance with skeletons in this playful and educational song that teaches kids the names of different bones.
    https://youtu.be/Pbl4BNkAq_U
  11. “Purple People Eater Meets the Witch Doctor” – What happens when the purple people eater meets the witch doctor? A toe-tapping, hilarious song your kids will adore.
    https://youtu.be/ieW-VsXt9qs
  12. “Halloween at Freddy’s” – If your kids are into Five Nights at Freddy’s, they’ll love this catchy and slightly spooky tune.
    https://youtu.be/L8V9YJ0mQ4I
  13. “The Witch Is in the House” – This quirky song is like a musical storybook, and it’s perfect for setting a Halloween mood.
    https://youtu.be/hQ6iq1a1_oU

Now that you have your Halloween playlist ready, it’s time to set the stage for a fantastic Halloween celebration. Whether you’re hosting a costume party, decorating pumpkins, or just enjoying some spooky treats, these songs will add a bewitching soundtrack to your festivities. Let your kids dance and sing—all while their imaginations run wild with these kid-friendly Halloween tunes.

Wishing you and your favorite folks a spooky (and splendid) Halloween!

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 Posted on October 30, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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7 Life Lessons We Can Learn From Being a Musician

As moms, we are always on the lookout for creative and meaningful ways to teach our kids important life lessons. With its captivating blend of melody and rhythm, music offers a unique platform for imparting wisdom that extends far beyond the confines of musical notes. In this post, I’m sharing seven essential lessons that kids can learn through the enriching experiences of playing, writing, and performing music.

1. Discipline and Practice

Lesson: Success requires dedication and consistent effort.

Learning to play a musical instrument demands discipline and practice. Kids quickly realize that to master a piece, they must invest time and effort. This lesson transcends the practice room, instilling the value of perseverance and hard work in all aspects of life.

2. Creativity and Expression

Lesson: Embrace your uniqueness and express yourself authentically.

Music serves as a canvas for creativity. When kids write their own songs or experiment with musical improvisation, they learn to embrace their unique ideas and express themselves authentically. This lesson encourages them to think outside the box and trust in their creative instincts. One of our goals as moms should be to pull all that bottled up creativity out of our children so they can shine.

3. Collaboration and Teamwork

Lesson: Success often involves working together.

Ensemble playing, whether in a band, orchestra, or choir, teaches kids the importance of collaboration. They must listen, adapt, and harmonize with others to create beautiful music – or, if they’re just beginning, something resembling a cohesive sound. This experience fosters teamwork skills that are invaluable in school, relationships, and future careers.

4. Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Lesson: Mistakes are opportunities for growth.

In the world of music, mistakes are an integral part of the learning process. And we all know they’re going to happen. Kids discover that setbacks are not failures but stepping stones toward improvement. This resilience serves them well in facing challenges with a positive attitude.

5. Confidence and Performance Skills

Lesson: Self-assurance and effective communication are keys to success.

Taking the stage to perform music can be a transformative experience for kids. It nurtures self-confidence and hones their ability to communicate effectively, not just through words but also through their music. These skills empower them to face audiences and life’s challenges with poise.

6. Patience and Attention to Detail

Lesson: Excellence is achieved through careful attention to detail.

When practicing music, children learn the value of patience and meticulous attention to detail. They discover that the smallest nuances can significantly impact the overall performance. This lesson translates into a keen eye for detail in academics and everyday tasks.

7. Time Management and Organization

Lesson: Balancing commitments is key to success.

Maintaining a practice schedule alongside school and other activities requires effective time management. Kids learn to prioritize tasks, set goals, and manage their time efficiently, skills that prove invaluable in juggling responsibilities later in life.

Final Thoughts

The world of music offers a rich tapestry of life lessons for our kids. Whether they’re mastering an instrument, composing their own melodies, or performing on stage, these experiences teach them discipline, creativity, collaboration, resilience, confidence, patience, and effective time management.

So, let’s encourage our young musicians to continue playing, writing, and performing, for in the process, they are not only creating beautiful (mostly!) melodies but also shaping themselves into well-rounded, resilient, and confident individuals.

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 Posted on September 23, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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School Year Serenade: 5 Tips and Tunes for a Smooth Transition

With the lazy days of summer now in our rearview mirror, the whirlwind of back-to-school preparations is in full swing. But fear not: With a sprinkle of organization and a dash of cheerful tunes, you can transform this bustling time of year into a smooth and enjoyable transition for the whole family.

In this blog post, I’m sharing five back-to-school tips perfectly paired with fitting songs to keep your sanity intact and those school mornings as harmonious as a well-orchestrated melody. Have a wonderful school year!

1. Rise and Shine With a Routine

  • Set a consistent wake-up time to establish a healthy routine.
  • Create a morning checklist for your kids to keep them on track.
  • Play “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles to infuse positivity into your mornings.

2. Prep Like a Pro

  • Plan outfits the night before to avoid early morning chaos.
  • Pack lunches and backpacks in advance.
  • Groove to “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves while prepping.

3. Create a Homework Haven

  • Designate a quiet and organized space for homework.
  • Keep supplies within reach to minimize distractions.
  • Accompany study sessions with the soothing melody of “Imagine” by John Lennon.

4. Triumph Over Time Management

  • Use a family calendar to keep track of activities and events.
  • Teach kids the importance of managing their time effectively.
  • “Clocks” by Coldplay is a fitting reminder of the value of time.

5. Celebrate and Unwind

  • Acknowledge achievements, both big and small.
  • Set aside quality family time for relaxation and fun.
  • Wind down to the soothing sounds of “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the back-to-school season doesn’t have to be a cacophony of stress. With these five tips and accompanying tunes, you can orchestrate a symphony of harmony and joy in your household. From waking up with a positive melody to celebrating accomplishments, this time of year can be a melodious adventure for the whole family.

So, remember to hit play on these tunes and let the music of organization and celebration guide you through the back-to-school transition.

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 Posted on August 31, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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Summer Sounds: These 10 Tunes Capture All the Fun and Wonder of Summer

Summer and music go hand in hand, as they create the perfect soundtrack for all of our fun-filled adventures and magical memories. On that note, I’m excited to share with you some of my favorite country and pop classics that’ll transport you back to the carefree summers of years gone by. From ABBA to Weezer, these timeless tunes will have you singing along and dancing like nobody’s watching (they’re not – are they?).

So, grab your shades, crank the volume way up, and let’s dive into the ultimate summer jams.

  1. “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and The Waves (1985
  2. “Island in the Sun” – Weezer (2001)
  3. “Dancing Queen” – ABBA (1976)
  4. “Margaritaville” – Jimmy Buffett (1977)
  5. “Wagon Wheel” – Old Crow Medicine Show (2004)
  6. “California Girls” – The Beach Boys (1965)
  7. “Summer of ’69” – Bryan Adams (1984)
  8. “Hot Fun in the Summertime” – Sly & The Family Stone (1969)
  9. “Kokomo” – The Beach Boys (1988)
  10. “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor (1978)

Now that you have some songs to keep you and your favorite folks moving and grooving, I hope you have a great rest of your summer!

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 Posted on July 21, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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From Sandcastles to Strawberries, Here’s a Guide to the Best Summer Ever

Ah, summer. The season of sunny days, outdoor adventures, and plenty of quality time with our favorite folks. As a mom who loves all three of those things, I’ve been itching to share some tips that’ll help you make the most of this most wonderful time of year. I hope these ideas guide you and your family toward the best summer ever.

Embrace the great outdoors.
There’s something magical about being outside during the warmest months. Encourage your family to embrace the great outdoors by planning regular outdoor activities. From picnics at the park to family hikes on nature trails, there are endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Get creative with water activities like setting up a backyard sprinkler or planning a day at the beach. Remember to pack sunscreen and stay hydrated while you enjoy the sunshine.

Create a summer bucket list.
Draw up a list of all the fun stuff you want to do this summer. Get everyone involved and let each family member contribute their own ideas. Whether it’s going on a road trip, building an epic sandcastle, or having a movie night under the stars, having this bucket list will make sure you don’t miss out on any summer adventures. Tick off each item as you go and create magical memories together.

Unplug and connect.
In this digital age, it’s essential to carve out quality time with our loved ones without the constant distractions of screens. Encourage a “tech-free” or “device-free” day once a week where everyone disconnects from their gadgets and engages in activities that encourage connection and togetherness. Play board games, have a family cookout, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll in the neighborhood. Whatever you end up doing, embrace these moments of genuine connection that make for the most meaningful summer memories.

Explore your local community.
Summer is the best time to explore your local community and discover its hidden gems. Check out local events, fairs, and farmers’ markets happening near you. Attend outdoor concerts, art exhibitions, or community festivals. This provides entertainment for the whole family and supports local businesses and artists. Quite a win-win, me thinks. Plus, you might uncover a new favorite spot or activity that you can continue to enjoy even after summer ends.

Cultivate creativity.
Encourage your family’s creativity by engaging in artistic endeavors. Set up an outdoor painting or craft station, where everyone can express themselves through art. Organize a family talent show or create a mini theater and put on a play together. Summer provides a relaxed and playful atmosphere, perfect for nurturing creativity in children and adults alike. Who knows, you might discover hidden talents within your family!

THE BOTTOM LINE
I’m confident that these tips will help you cook up the best summer ever for you and your family. Remember, summer is meant for relaxing, recharging, and making beautiful memories. You can do this by embracing the outdoors, unplugging and connecting, exploring your community, and letting creativity flourish. May fun, sunshine, and laughter fill all your summer days!

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 Posted on May 31, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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Want Less Stress? Here’s How to Make It Happen

As a busy musician and mom, I completely understand the stress and pressure that comes with juggling a career and parenting responsibilities. It can be much too easy to get lost in the daily grind and forget to prioritize our own mental health and well-being. That’s why I’ve been wanting to share some tips and tricks that have helped me find balance and reduce stress in my own life.

First and foremost, self-care needs to be a top priority. Take time for yourself every day by going for a walk, practicing yoga, or taking a relaxing bath. This will help you recharge and stay grounded. Remember: you can’t take good care of others if you’re not taking good care of yourself.

Creating an organized schedule can also help reduce stress. By including time for work, family, and your favorite creative activities in your schedule, you can stay organized and avoid overcommitting yourself. Keep in mind that it’s important to be realistic about what you can handle and not feel guilty about saying no to commitments that don’t mesh with your priorities.

Taking breaks throughout the day can help you recharge and refocus. Try taking short breaks every hour or so to stretch, take a walk, or simply relax. Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can also help you stay present and reduce stress.

Connecting with others can be a powerful way to improve mental health and reduce stress. Spending time with friends, joining a support group, or even just having a meaningful conversation with someone can help you feel more supported and less alone.

Getting enough sleep is crucial for reducing stress and improving mental health. Creating a consistent bedtime routine and sticking to it as much as possible can help you prioritize sleep and feel more rested and refreshed.

Finally, if you’re struggling with stress or mental health issues, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide you with the tools and support you need to manage stress and improve your overall wellbeing.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Reducing stress as a busy musician and mom seems like a daunting task, but it’s important to remember that achieving self-care and balance is possible. By prioritizing self-care, creating a schedule, taking breaks, practicing mindfulness, connecting with others, prioritizing sleep, and seeking professional help when necessary, you can improve your mental health and find the balance you need in your life.

So I hope you’ll take a deep breath and remember to prioritize your own well-being because you deserve it.

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 Posted on April 20, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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Craving Creativity? Here Are 5 Steps to Make It Happen

As a mother, it can often feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done. Between work, school runs, and everything else, finding time for creativity can feel like a challenging task. Sometimes it even seems impossible.

But as someone who loves to make music and enjoys all things arts-based, I know how important it is to make time for the things that make us happy. So I’ve come up with a few simple steps that have helped me carve out some much-needed creative time in my busy schedule. Good luck!

Step 1: Schedule it in

The first step to making more time for creativity is to schedule it. Just like you would schedule a doctor’s appointment or a business meeting, put aside time in your calendar each week for your creative pursuits. It might only be an hour or two, but even that tiny amount of time can make a huge difference.

Step 2: Make it a priority

Once you’ve scheduled your creative time, make it a priority. It’s easy to push it aside when other things arise, but remember that this is important for your mental health, well-being, and relationships. So, treat it as you would any other important commitment and stick to it.

Step 3: Get the family involved

If you have kids, getting them involved in your creative pursuits can be a great way to make more time for them. Set up a family art station or music corner and spend time creating together. Not only will this give you some extra time to work on your projects, but it’s also a fun way to bond with your kids.

Step 4: Multitask

If you’re really struggling to find time for creativity, try multitasking. For example, you could listen to music while cooking dinner or sketch while watching TV. Incorporating your creative pursuits into your daily routine can be a great way to make more time for them without feeling like you’re sacrificing other essential tasks.

Step 5: Be kind to yourself

Finally, it’s important to be kind to yourself. It’s easy to feel guilty about taking time for yourself when so many other things need to be done, but remember that self-care is crucial. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, take a break and return to your creative pursuits when you’re feeling refreshed.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Finding time for creativity as a busy mother can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By scheduling your creative time, making it a priority, getting your family involved, multitasking, and being kind to yourself, you can make more time for the things that make you happy.

So, grab your pen, paintbrush, or guitar and get creative! You deserve it.

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 Posted on March 31, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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Favorite Folks First: 7 Simple Ways to Make More Time for Your Family

Modern life seems to be all about the 24-7. Too many of us remain tethered to the clock, firmly believing that we simply don’t have enough time for the ones we love.

The good news? We can find more quality time with our families simply by increasing our creativity and efficiency.

On that note, here are 7 tried and true ways you can make more time for your family.

Jot down your priorities. Whether it’s on your smartphone, a journal, or an index card, make up a list of 5-7 weekly priorities. Make sure “family time” is way up there near the top of the list and stay focused on it – just in case the craziness of life starts to lead you astray.

Be deliberate in how you plan for family time. The truth is that if something isn’t on your calendar, chances are it won’t happen. Make sure everyone in your house knows that family time is not merely an afterthought – it’s a priority.

Be a good example by occasionally biting the bullet. Remember: you’ll get out of this exactly what you put into it. If you always have some sort of an excuse to not be available, you can pretty much guarantee that the other members of your family will soon follow suit.

Monitor everyone’s screen time and occasionally make the most of it together. You already know this, but an overabundance of screen time can pretty much suck the life out of your home. Shared limited and planned viewing can be a worthwhile family activity. The key here is to gain full control of the screens in your home, rather than letting them control you.

Make family time fun. This sounds like a big old duh, right? But you’d be shocked at how often parents think merely being under the same roof is sufficient. Be aware of the quality of the time you spend together as a family. If your time together is boring, you’ll likely soon find that your favorite folks keep “forgetting” to do it.

Schedule family dinners each week. If it seems as though very few folks still consider dinner a sacred time, you’re right. Whether it’s two or three times a week, I recommend setting dinner time in stone and seeing it all the way through. If motivation is hard to find, think of family mealtime as a variation on the traditional family meeting in which everyone has a voice.

Don’t waste the time that you do have. Ready for some pretty straightforward advice? Make the most of the time you do have. Don’t waste an evening when everyone happens to be home. Take advantage of the time by doing something together. Even a simple board game can encourage quality bonding time.

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 Posted on February 28, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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Bye-Bye (Winter) Blues: 8 Tips for Beating These Cold and Gray Days

Dark mornings, darker nights, and in between nothing but frozen days of gray: it’s no wonder many of us end up with a bad case of the winter blues. These seasonal doldrums are pretty common and typically leave us feeling more melancholic, lethargic, and disinterested than usual. The good news? There are specific things you can do to feel more alive and actually thrive in the weeks (and possibly months!) before spring arrives.

Embrace a healthy diet. Complex carbs such as whole grains are perfect for boosting your energy level. Fruits and veggies such as broccoli and carrots offer the type of nutrients that promote improved mood and better overall health.

Dig out your running shoes and get outside. Getting at least 20 minutes of spirited activity four times a week has been proven to reduce depressive mood. If you don’t love the cold and snow, buy a gym membership. Whatever it takes to get you up and moving around.

Establish a regular sleep routine. Tempting as it might be to sleep in on these oh so dark mornings (we’ve all been there), sticking to a regular sleep schedule really is the best thing for your body and mind. This means making sure you wake up at around the same time most days.

Stimulate each of your senses. Some folks discover that painting their walls a bright color (or even their nails) can have a magical effect on their mood. Scents such as peppermint can also add to your feeling of well-being.

Make up a list of funny, feel-good movies and laugh, laugh, laugh. Psychologists have proven that laughter actually stimulates your brain in a way that counters depressive symptoms. So round up your family or your friends (or both) and commence the laughing.

Host a party. Since we’re already past the holidays, any excuse to host a gathering of friends will do. I recommend organizing a dinner party, a board game night, or my favorite: a friendly at-home open mic that includes all your musical friends.

Keep your to-do lists manageable. Don’t overwhelm yourself with lengthy lists of projects and chores just because you can’t garden like you do in the spring. Don’t settle for spending your winter hours doing too much stuff you don’t enjoy. It’ll wear you out pretty quickly and make you hate this time of year even more.

Book a staycation. If your work buddy’s upcoming Bahamas trip has you dreaming of traveling, you can save money and still get a seasonal boost by planning a mini-getaway near where you live. It’s much easier (and cheaper) to plan a local staycation outing with some of your favorite folks.

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 Posted on January 31, 2023 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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7 Resolutions That’ll Make This Your Best Year Yet

It’s officially that time of year again. You know, the days when you actually use yoga pants for yoga and your family is fully committed to trying new (i.e. greener) things at dinner time. But instead of vowing once again to start working out or going on some unrealistic diet, I want to share with you 7 resolutions that I believe every mom really should be making. And sticking to, of course. Good luck, and happy new year!

Actively seek the positive wherever you can find it. There are days that are going to stink. But even on those most annoying days, there are highlights: The extra minutes you get to spend with your kids during breakfast, the way they laugh with each other as they walk down the hall together, or the look on your daughter’s face when she sees you at school dropping off her forgotten lunch. If we’re somehow able to find a few of those moments each day, I believe we should call it a win. After all, there are very few perfect days as a parent.

Master the fine art of saying no. This year I hope you’ll reject the notion that you must be all things to all people all the time. Repeat after me: No, I can’t volunteer then. No, I can’t drive the kids to practice. No, I won’t be able to bake those last minute brownies. I’m sorry, but no. Trust me: you can do it.

Spend one on one time with each of your kids. It’s amazing how much less challenging a kid can be without having to compete with their siblings for attention. Take the time when and where you can get it — even if it’s a sick day, a trip to the grocery store, or a stroll around the neighborhood to walk the dog. The outing doesn’t have to be complicated to make it special.

Forget about competing with other moms. No, their handmade cookies don’t make your store-bought brownies any less desirable, and they definitely don’t make you an inferior mom. Spend less time in the coming year comparing yourself to other mothers, and spend more time celebrating what makes you unique as a parent.

Don’t sweat the small stuff. Are a few crumbs on the rug really worth losing your cool over? No. Does it really matter if your son wears the same hoodie every single day for a month? Nope. Are you ever going to see the bottom of the laundry basket? Probably not. Save the worry for things that really matter.

Laugh as much as you possibly can. At your children. At your spouse. And at yourself, of course. Laughing is much, much better than crying, after all. So laugh as much as you can this coming year. It’s good for you.

Be very intentional about embracing your creative side. As creative moms, we gotta plan on maximizing our creativity, right? The best way to make sure you do this is by being very intentional as it pertains to your creative side. Set aside specific times on your calendar when you’ll be free to write, paint, or play your favorite instrument.

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 Posted on December 18, 2022 by

 music. motherhood. life.

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The Music Mom: Eileen Carey

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