Dear Fellow Moms:
One thing that seems to be a major struggle for me on a daily basis is being able to maintain a demanding schedule while still being an attentive mother, wife and professional.
Here's how my morning typically begins. . .
I get Caleb's breakfast going, wake him to get dressed (usually takes 2-3 attempts). I make sure everything is in the backpack: homework, library books, etc. After breakfast, I double check his clothes, brush his hair, put on lip balm (never know if he's got to give a little kiss to the teacher!), then check the weather to determine if we can walk to school or if I will drive.
If we walk, I stop by the neighbor's to rally their kids and we head off. I hold Sophie's hand while Caleb and Zach argue about who is going to walk in front. If I'm lucky, Caleb will give me a high five - I sneak a kiss if possible - but more times than not, he runs into the school after his buddies.
After I get back home, I check my e-mail and calendar before heading to the gym. I'm already exhausted, and I have a full day ahead of me!
So, moms, have you ever felt like the last thing you want to worry about in the morning is making your daughter's hair look picture perfect? Although I don't have a little girl's hair to do, I do know from experience what it's like. Growing up, I had to take care of my sister's hair. She had MEGA hair down to her waist, a tender scalp and HATED to get it combed.
Try some of these tips. . .
TIP: Do all preliminary work at night:
1. Lay out all hair accessories for the next morning (bows, ribbons, etc.)
2. Apply moisturizers around edges and throughout the hair. Use a little bit more than you would during the day, to combat absorption.
3. Place in pony tails, but don't use tight rubber bands. Twist, braid or roll hanging hair to avoid tangling during sleep.
4. Cover with a satin scarf or night cap to prevent drying out.
TIP: In the morning, have your daughter remove the scarf and twists, braids or rollers to save you time and to give her some responsibility. Try to have her wear the same style for a few days. Create a new one when you have time.
TIP: Shampoo her hair once a week, not every day, unless she's swimming.
TIP: Weekly planning is the key. I found a cute little hanging container that is labeled Monday-Friday. The cubby holes are just right for holding clothes, shoes and hair accessories. Let your little diva help pick out everything; be sure to iron over the weekend.
TIP: If your little girl is a fashionista already, and is picky about how she wears her hair, don't try to go against what she likes. Instead, go to the store and pick out a couple of magazines. Go through them together and select styles you BOTH like.
Until next time. . .
Roz
