Save 20% on Caraway’s cookware set and stack an added 10% discount with my code JAMBEAUTY10 here → carawayhome.com/jessicabraun Thanks Caraway for sponsoring this video & supporting my channel! :) ✨ V I D E O S M E N T I O N E D 🎥 the video I almost didn't post: ruclips.net/video/EA3nkmzJBKU/видео.htmlsi=IL8MvCfytQaGKDfq 🎥. more chores & chats videos: ruclips.net/p/PLzVhGARzals2SiK3c60fLdjrHScr0CuhL&si=VRw2yRRpYmlQtkE8 ✨ W H A T I M E N T I O N E D (affiliate links): silver necklace (16 inch): amzn.to/3MvhrWJ my shirt was hauled here: ruclips.net/video/K9VSlktGjFU/видео.htmlsi=WYURs4B4bNQLULeN over the door laundry hamper: amzn.to/477sij6 stain spray: amzn.to/3XkPM1a my white tennis shoes: go.magik.ly/ml/24sjr/ lights for power outage: amzn.to/4fVtuKy big charger box with outlets: amzn.to/3T4dj3O radio for power outage: amzn.to/3MqnA6S ✨ F O L L O W M E: ➙ IG: instagram.com/itsjessicabraun/ ➙ Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@itsjessicabraun ➙ FB: facebook.com/itsjessicabraun ✨ My AMAZON Storefront (affiliate) ➙ amzn.to/2Ca7aed ✨ My "LIKE TO KNOW IT" Page (outfit & jewelry links - affiliate) ➙ www.shopltk.com/explore/Jessica_Braun ✨ My fave place to order groceries online is THRIVE MARKET (Get 30% off first order + free gift - affiliate): www.thrivemarket.com/jessb ✨ O U R D I S N E Y P O D C A S T www.youtube.com/@disneyvillepodcast ✨ A B I T A B O U T M E 🥰 Well hi there! My name is Jessica and I live in the midwest (Indiana specifically) with my family (my husband Tyler @tylertravelstv + my 2 daughters + our beagle Pinocchio). I share lifestyle & wholesome vlogs, makeup & beauty finds, amazon and target favorites, cute fashion items, grocery hauls, quick meal ideas, and a bit about my journey through my life so far in my Coffee Chats series. I also love Disney and host our podcast @DisneyvillePodcast with my hubby Tyler! I hope you’ll stick around the join the fam by subscribing. 🤍 Tyler's channel: ruclips.net/user/tylertravelstv ✨ Book your next disney trip (and beyond!) through his agency People Mover Travel - it's free: www.peoplemovertravel.com/quote-request ✨ F A V E P L A Y L I S T S 🎥 Vlogs: bit.ly/jessicasvlogs 🎥 Drugstore Makeup: bit.ly/drugstorevideos 🎥 Amazon Faves: bit.ly/braunamazonfaves 🎥 Coffee Chats: bit.ly/brauncoffeechats ________ FTC disclaimer: This video is sponsored by Caraway. This post does contain affiliate/referral links, which means that if you purchase anything through these links, I may make a small commission. Music: Epidemic Sound Business only please ➙ jessicabraunbusiness@gmail.com #lifestylevlog #chores #productive #productivedayinmylife #productiveday
Who's to say that you're not living your dream now? You're working your dream job, you have a wonderful marriage and two amazing children, a home, friends, extended family, tons of good times. That's living the dream!
Great point! Feel like I was meant to see this today! For the past couple of weeks, I've been feeling down about not working or being successful. I recently got out of a complicated family job for 8 years and moved to a new state last year. My kids are now teenagers, and I can't really label myself as a stay-at-home mom. I'm very fortunate not to have to work but have so much guilt because I feel like I should be, by society? My husband is very supportive either way, but I can't shake the guilt of just working on myself, my family life, my mental health, and being at peace in my home with the guilt! ❤ My dream is just to be happy! So I say if finding what makes you happy doesn't count as a goal. What does? ❤
@@elizabethcampbell3203 Exactly! We're not here to suffer! Living and loving your family and yourself are extremely worthy goals and a wonderful way to spend your time. Congratulations on your new chapter and don't let society tell you what to do!
I totally agree with you about kids not having to be in sports all the time. At our school we have all day kindergarten so the kids go from 9:15 until 330 every day. Now my daughter is in first grade with that same schedule, and that is a long day for her! She needs to rest after school!
I feel exactly the same way about long term dreams! It can get so easy to get caught up in the "somedays" that you don't enjoy the here and now. Short term goals work so much better for me.
Yes, being grateful for what the life you do have is everything. Dreams are the life we have in the here and now. Look up and praise our dear Lord for the life you have now. And are living it now. 🌞🌺
Just wanted to say (not a parent) but one of the things i appreciated about my parents is that they never forced me to do any extra curriculars! I tried a few things (ballet, gymnastics) at 5-7 years old but decided I didn’t like them. I’m grateful my parents listened to me at that age and allowed me to choose when/what things I did outside of my education.
I literally just left a comment exactly like this and thought I was reading my own when I saw this 😂 I’m also so glad my parents supported what I wanted to do but never forced any of it on me.
Same! I work in an elementary school and hear the students talking about their after school schedule and it amazes me how busy they are at 5 and 6 years old! When do these kids have time to be a kid?
Regarding the question you responded to around 22:00 I'm a big fan of JRR Tolkien and one of my favorite quotes from him is "it's no bad thing to celebrate a simple life" 😊 it's okay to be content with life as it is and not have a huge dream for the future. I also feel overwhelmed when thinking about five years from now. Let me just take life one day, one week, one month, one year at a time. That's enough for me.
Loved the discussion about life/long-term goals. I’m in my mid twenties and have always felt alone and discouraged about not knowing what my “dream job” is or what I want my life to look like. I’ve often struggled with not knowing what my purpose is in life or what “gifts” I possess that will make me successful in any given aspect of life. Don’t think I’ve ever really heard anyone else address the topic, but it’s comforting to know that I’m not alone in the matter.
Regarding the subjects of goals, (simple and reasonable goals are definitely beneficial), but I heard this thought not too long ago and it made so much sense to me: “Can’t get so hung up on where you rather be…that you forget to make the most of where you are at this moment”. Try your best, be your best (kind, loving, generous, forgiving, encouraging, caring,…) one day at a time. 😘💕💕💕 You will never have regrets. 🤩
Just what I needed today! I got my laundry folded watching you. Wholly agree (I’m at a very different phase of life, my daughter graduated uni last year) that the race to achieve Big Life Goals can be so exhausting and overwhelming. When I got promoted to manager, I chased Director. When that happened, my sister said - next, VP. Well, an MS diagnosis later, and I live by “How do you eat an elephant? A bite at a time.” 2-3 work tasks and 2-3 personal “goals” daily. That’s manageable. And if that goal is “schlep all the trash and recycling out” or pick up groceries - yay me!
Having your kid in a million extra curricular activities is overrated imo. Everyone is constantly on the go, most hate it and it's all just to keep up with what others are doing. I have had European friends tell me it's truly an american thing that others don't get lol
I’m an American and I had two extra curricular activities as a kid and I don’t feel like a missed out. I agree it’s all nonsense my family life was chill and I remember it fondly just relaxing and eating together when I was young 😍🥰🥰 that’s what matters that’s what I’ll remember into old age not keeping up with the Jones’ or smiths etc I really couldn’t care less what they are doing as a child nor as an adult 😅😄
Jess, thank you for being so authentic. What you said about having a dream/5-10 year plan...that's exactly how I feel. And I've questioned if I'm not really an adult (even at 30) because of my lack of long term planning. Thank you for helping me feel seen ♥️
I think it should be more common to say that right now, I am living my dream. I am healthy, I have a family, I have a home and a job I love, etc etc. We get so caught up in the later and often forget about the now. I feel the same way when talking about goals and dreams. It's one thing when we ask kids that, hoping to inspire them and maybe get them involved in things that will help them to achieve that. It's another level when asking adults lol . I hope that made sense.
My “dream career” left me burned out by the time I was 30. I took a job that was stable and provided me with decent income and benefits, but not super exciting or “impressive”I’ve been working 9 to 5 jobs ever since. One thing that these jobs have provided me that my “dream career” never did was time for things I love. I’d rather be happy having time to do what I want with my life that doesn’t bring income, than be stressed out and miserable in a “dream career”. Some people can do the grind, it just wasn’t for me. I have no regrets. Absolutely nothing that I planned for myself at 18 or 25 or 30 even happened. But I can’t imagine being happier now as I approach 50. Sending my love to all of you who are searching to find your place of joy and peace in life. ❤
I am so with you with the activities for kids. My son comes home exhausted from school, he just started 1st grade and a lot of his classmates do things after school. It is way too much!
I add my old planners to my sentimental box because I love to look back and see what life was like. If it’s super bulky, sometimes I tear out pages I didn’t fill out or didn’t use. You can also take pics to keep the memory and then toss.
I totally agree with you when you were talking about goals. I used to place these crazy expectations on myself and it is overwhelming. It can also make you feel inadequate when you don't meet the expectations of those dreams. You aren't alone in feeling that way, much love!!
The over the door laundry basket has been the greatest $10 I've ever spent. My kids are little (toddlers) and they will just throw their clothes off in the hall or bathroom before bath time and then they end up everywhere. Now that over the door laundry basket is on the bathroom door and it just keeps the clothes from being all over the floor and then can quickly throw the towels in before bringing it to the laundry room! Truly a game changer, so thank you!
Thank you so much for your honesty and I can relate in so many things you shared. Too much of a busy culture leaves no room to think and gather throughts and be in peace and spend time together.
About the sports - I think your view on that is spot on. I love how you are not pressuring yourself because other parents are doing it. My parents never pushed me to get into sports and it was because I didn't want to LOL. I was more interested in music; like playing the piano and singing so they leaned into that. Now, my daughter is about to be 6 and she was the one who asked me if she can do gymnastics. My son does jiujitsu and he LOVES it. It is something he and his dad bond over! His dojo has gymnastics as well (a husband and wife own the complex). She would see the kids and became curious/interested. I signed her up, but it's not something I am forcing her to attend - she's only 5. I encourage it, but I also want it to be something she becomes passionate about on her own. If she moves on to something else, that's okay too.
Jessica- again, the content in this video I resonate with so much. When you spoke about thinking about goals 5 years out I ALWAYS think I am the failure and/or weirdo because everyone else seems to know and I just don’t. It also stresses me out. I’ve had to really do some work on myself the past few years to be ok with not knowing.
My daughter is 20 now. Growing up we’ve only signed her up for a year for ballet, and art. Thats it. Nothing else and she’s not into any sports. I’m a piano teacher myself so she usually just tag along with me anywhere I go. She’s learned to entertain herself by reading and writing. Out of boredom is how she gets creative in writing, she writes so well and reads a ton. That’s the upbringing we want her to have. No obligations of running around.
I loved when after you talked about goal s and dreams you said you were content, that is the true goal! If we’re always chasing something we’re never happy - small goals help us for sure, but living in the present and appreciating what we have is the best feeling :)
My caraway pan was super nonstick like that in the beginning but now 8 months in almost everything sticks. I like it but it’s so expensive I don’t find it to be worth it.
Same with Our Place pans. Too expensive and go bad after a couple of month. About a year ago I got an All-Clad non stick at TJ Maxx and it’s been fantastic.
I'm Asian (Filipino), and grew up outside of the US. I find that parenting here rewards hyper-busy-ness, and I doubt it's the healthiest for our children. Kids start at a very young age here being very busy with after school stuff, that there's hardly any time for real play and down time. I'm not a fan of this hyper competitive, hyper busy culture. It's great to foster our kids' passions (if they even have one; if not, it's okay). But they need as much rest and free play as possible to become healthy people. That's my 2cents (mom of a now-17yr old). P.S. I love your discussion on having / not having dreams; and ooh I like The Bolter too. :-)
I am so glad I am not the only one that feels that way about goals , I am happy and content where I am and I feel overwhelmed when ever I am forced to make long term goals. Thank you for being yourself
Jessica, your videos give me so much comfort and calmness I can't even discribe🫂 whenever I'm anxious or stressed out about something, I know I can always turn to your videos🫂🥹 thank you for being yourself and making content for us❤
I think when it comes to activities and children it's important to let them choose what interests them and when they're ready for it. My oldest is in 8th grade and he only started getting really active in sports last year. My daughter's who are 6 and 3 have talked about dance and some other things but one started kindergarten and one started preschool so we're taking it slow. And for goals - they overwhelm me too! I feel like survival is the only consistent goal I have right now 😂
Jess, your content is so appreciated!! When you talk about goals, life, career.. you just get it! You help us all feel a little less lost ♥️ thanks for the vlog and loooove that top!
The dream discussion is so relatable to me. And maybe it’s always been my way, but in the depths of motherhood with young children, and another on the way, I feel like day to day enjoyment is where I’m living right now. I used to be very goal driven or had longer term plans, but having kids has definitely changed my perspective
My chore today is canning tomato sauce! We picked 83# at a local farm yesterday. First load is in the canner so it's the perfect time for me to watch. ❤️
I love that you are content where you are at! As a therapist, I often find that clients too focused on 5-10 year goals, or always being in pursuit of something different are often those who feel unhappy with their life. Or they are unable to be fully present in their current life because they are so driven to obtain something different down the road. Nothing wrong with dreams and goals at all, especially when we know we need a change...we all have had goals and made changes at some points in our journeys. But I also think it is 100% okay to not have any big change or improvement you want to make, and that should really be more normalized in our culture. Being perfectly content where you are is a beautiful place to be.
Omg I had the whole club thing as well. I turned a deaf ear to everything and basically allowed my son to observe all the different clubs and choose where he wanted to spend his time. Honestly it was when he turned 5/5.5 when he started to like tennis and that was when we started his first club. It’s overwhelming enough without adding the ‘peer pressure’.
Jessica! I have 3 boys (7-4-2) And they are mellow and introverted kids by nature, they ask to be home all weekend, and they HATE playing areas because of the noise (mind you, they are the biggest noise makers in my house) When my oldest turn 6 we started swimming classes in the summer and then he asked to be in the stay and play club after school so we did enroll him. He stayed there for 2 months then his coach told us what his strength points and what kind of sport he is good at which was tennis. We asked him if he wanted to focus on tennis for the rest of the year, and he said yes. What I wanted to say is wait until your kid is ready and don’t waste money and time doing what other parents do. Kids thrive on white spaces, and with school and homework they are very few moments where the kids be kids. Anyways, i really love your vlogs the longer the better!! You actually encouraged me to have a me day yesterday where i spent TWO uninterrupted hours in a bookshop, i went isle by isle discovering new-to-me books. Then went to dinner with my friends. Love you, you are my virtual bestie
I’m with you on living life for the contentedness of now. I love goals but life is such a rollercoaster that I just prefer to enjoy the now. Goals for the future are great but they can be so much pressure!
Thankfully any non-stick pan is PFOA free as of 2013, so even Teflon is safe now. The thing with Caraway and other ceramics is that the non-stick just doesn't last that long and the pans themselves only last a few years, esp as often as folks like you cook. The exterior coating chips very easily as grease sticks to it then when removed, the coating comes off with it. The interior is the same, though less so. For the price, you're better off with one of the other ones on the market that are the same only cheaper since they won't last as long as they should. They do sponsor a lot of content creators and other groups so often the online reviews are skewed and hard to decipher the facts from. Is it a bad pan? No. It's just expensive and the non-stick doesn't last so you may as well buy something else cheaper that you can just replace like Blue Diamond or something.
I really love Greenpan and All Clad - they last so well and we do not baby our pans at all, they get so much wear, we chuck them in the dishwasher constantly. Not cheap for sure, but if you want to not replace anything anytime soon and just want like a few key everyday pans they’re amazing.
I so enjoyed this! And we ALL go thru phases and stages…at my core, I’m the same but why & how I do things have evolved. And I’m one of the blessed ones, married just before my 19th birthday & 43 years later we are still happy and working together to have a good life.
I’m so glad you said what you did about goals/dreams. I can relate! I’ve been in a transition period for the last 2 years wanting to figure out the next step. It’s only been recently that I’ve settled into what I’m doing (mostly!) and allowed myself to be where I’m at in life. It seems like the right thing for me right now. I’m not as content, but I am working toward it to try and create the life I want. ☺️❤️ Thanks Jess!
This was so interesting , i live in Ireland and I constantly moan about our wet weather but listening to you guys needing to think about storms that can destroy your homes, most our houses are not even built with basements . lol, i miss we don’t have great seasons i wish we did but we don’t need to worrry about extreme weather , always something to be grateful for ❤
“It’s possible to find joy & peace in life and just enjoy the day to day”. That statement brought tears to my eyes Jess 🥹. I’m also someone struggling with achieving a particular goal, and at 35 feeling like there are other things I could have worked toward instead of that but it’s ok. Ordinary days have purpose and the mundane can be appreciated when tough times eventually do arise. Keep positive and enjoy the little things. 💕💜
Jessica i feel like you are living your dream, your able to travel while living in a beautiful home, you own another property and have 2 beautiful children and an amazing husband. You have your health and you have a large family that you are close too. Your doing what you love instead of teaching. I feel that is a dream life. The problem is often in life we tend to take things for granted, i have started this thing that at night i write down one thing that i am thankful for that day, it has helped tremendously in my happiness, we all have bumps in the road but i am always the one to say that others have it way worse.
My daughter, at around 9-10 months would empty her crib-threw out blankets and stuffed animals as a landing pad. She would shimmy down the side of the crib and play until we came to her room. My son would monkey himself out at around 7 months and call for us under the door! They are 28 and 22 now. Those are some of our favorite stories/memories of them. ❤
I did cheerleading for a year as a child and quit shortly into it since I didn't like waking up early and I'm introverted. I never did any other sports, but I took culinary in HS and loved it!! Now, as a mom, I won't pressure my child into anything but also allow them to try any and all activities they wish since that's how you're able to find your passion!
COMPLETELY AGREE about goals! I have absolutely no clue what I might want for my life in 5 or 10 years. And what does that matter? Too many things could come along and change that. But I know I’m happy and content right now. That’s all I need.
Love your chores and chats videos, Jess❣️I’m 61, but I still want to be like you when I grow up 😂❤💯Also, I raised six kids, and I was definitely not doing the soccer mom thing! It would have been waayyyy too time consuming to the point that soccer would consume our entire family time. However, swimming lessons was an absolute must! It was for them to be more confident, water safe, and they could all, for the most part, do it at the same time and place. They were also involved in the youth activities at church (AWANA) which had a bunch of physical activities that they loved doing with their church friends. They are all grown now and doing well. (Except for my third born who passed away from a plane accident almost seven years ago) . I just don’t believe in having kids schedules being so filled that they don’t have time to be “kids” with completely stressed out parents 😂
My rule has always been only one activity at a time for each child, unless it is a short term activity added on. You were a teacher. You know down time and using their imagination are how kids learn the most. It is also important for their mental health and family time. Many American kids are overscheduled and don't have that. We shouldn't see young children with anxiety, burnout and no imagination, but we have in the past 20 years due to parents scheduling their every minute. I ordered those over the door laundry bags for all my kids' bathrooms and bedrooms last time you posted it.
Ugh thank you so much for touching on this topic. We are not all born with an innate desire to do a certain occupation or achieve some grand goal. Most of the jobs that we have now did not even exist when humans were first created; it was all about having family and surviving. I feel the same way sometimes bc I feel like a jack of all trades but a master of none…which is a hard thing to be in this culture. All I do know is I cannot wait to be a mom, and I love the Lord!
Jessica, thank you for reminding me of the importance of being present! Goals and dreams are important to have, but useless if you never live in the moment or appreciate your day to day moments. My 40s are teaching me that. ❤
I totally get that feeling of tackling chores while chatting! It's like a mini therapy session, right? Plus, I really need to check out that over-the-door laundry basket, sounds like a game changer! 🧺✨
CARAWAY THOUGHTS - I loved my Caraway pots and pans I received as a wedding gift... UNTIL about a year and a half late when they totally lost their nonstick properties 😭 I always handwashed them and never used them above medium heat. Unfortunately, their warranty only lasted a year, so Caraway said there was nothing they could do. I ended up donating and buying an All Clad, which was SUPER disappointing given how much my Caraway set cost. I'm hoping my All Clad will last muchhhh longer than my Caraway. Edit to add: I still love you though! ❤ currently doing laundry and watching this video.
I’m going to watch this later when I’m done playing with my daughter and she goes down for a nap, but I really appreciated your video about the transition into motherhood. Nobody talks about it. Only other mothers understand. And sometimes you’re shamed for something completely normal. It was a fantastic video and I’m so glad you posted it.❤ it really helped me as I am at that point where I’m finally starting to feel like myself again
Just here to say as a long time viewer you have grown so gracefully ❤❤ I love these types of videos! Thanks for creating such a comforting and judgment free space in a very overwhelming world
I feel the same exact way! I know lots of people who have their children in extracurricular activities, a lot of them it’s multiple activities and it does sound so overwhelming. I have three small kids, 5(almost 6), 4, and 1 and the two oldest are in preschool and kindergarten this year. I think adjusting to school is stimulating enough, and I’m an adult lol. You’re not alone! I’m going to wait until they’re a little older and can handle that busier schedule.
The “what are your goals/dreams” question has always stressed me out as well, even in high school I was indifferent on what I wanted to do. I went to college because my brother did, he was first generation college graduate, and honestly with all the pressure from school admin I thought that was what would help me succeed. I graduated in spring 2020 and the closer I got towards the end I just felt more stressed about finding a “real job.” Then everything shut down and my “internship” basically was just a big research project and manuscript since I couldn’t go out and do anything. I’ve been at my current job since college and have just worked my way up the corporate ladder, but I’m not really happy because I don’t like the restrictions of corporate and retail especially with scheduling and taking any time off. :/ People STILL ask what I want to do and I’m now 26 and at this point I get embarrassed because entry-level in the field I went to school for does not pay enough to survive in this economy. My husband and I both have to work. I don’t really have any big dreams or goals other than more freedom.
I’ve noticed my pans turning my food a different color. I threw that pan out. I need a good set of pans . It’s nice to hear you talk while you did house chores. I got my floors cleaned while listening to you. I think this is the first time I’ve come across your video ❤
I'm 40 so obviously my childhood was a different time, but our family rule was no more than one after school activity at a time. And yes that led to a stressful summer where I had to choose between softball and musicals. But going all in on the musical when I was ten led to a life long deep love for music performance. ☺️ I love what you said about dreams. I feel like chasing a dream can lead to missing out on the reality that things were already good.
I believe in one day at a time, but always try to make it a good day , for me the days,weeks,months and years fly by ( wow your girls are 2 and 6 now ) Thanks for being you Jessica ❤
Our only daughter did many activities from gymnastics, cheerleading, soccer, then drama club, thespian, dance, she excelled in all. Loved it all ...but she is very outgoing and goal driven. It suited her being. All children are so different. Her only child now, a girl, is 4 yrs and just started ballet and tap. So far she loves it and is thriving. Who is to say? Cater to each child individually is my take. I grew up in foster care as a ward if the State and never got to do any extra curricular activities. Would have loved to have had a choice.
I completely agree with you regarding long term goals. That concept is so overwhelming and freaks me out. I always dreaded that question at an interview. I'm just trying to get through life man. LOL
Thank you for the discussion about goals. I always say idk what I wanna be when I grow up. I just never have been a goal driven person. I really enjoyed this vid. Thanks for sharing it ❤
I was an over-scheduled kid as well as felt a lot of academic pressure and pressure to be “smart.” It led to a lot of anxiety and perfectionism that I’m now working on shedding in my 30s! I think it’s great for kids to find activities they like and participating in sports and activities is great for gaining confidence as well as identity development, but don’t stress about it too much and let Gigi find the things she likes to do. She doesn’t have to have an activity every day of the week!
I work with students and the pressure on them from all angles (parents, school, society) is insane... especially at the high school level. There's a reason anxiety and other similar issues are so prevalent today. It's really sad and I worry about their mental health all the time.
@@striketochill I have a stepdaughter who is just starting 10th grade and I’m currently in school myself to become a mental health counselor so I definitely agree!!
@@WallxFlower She's lucky to have a stepmom who understands! I think with your personal experience and education, she's going to be in such a better place than other kids. Good job!
@@striketochill Thanks, that’s very kind ❤️ She’s been a part of my life since she was just turning 2 and this developmental stage is definitely a challenging one to navigate 😅, but I’m trying my best!
I also feel overwhelmed at the thought of toddler/young child activities. And, I also feel the same about being super content in the day-to-day. I know some people always want to achieve the next milestone in their career, life, etc. but I've never really been drawn to that mindset. Sure, there are things I want to achieve, but they don't consume me in a way that doesn't allow me to appreciate where I am and how far I've come.
I relate to so much of this honestly - goal setting always stressed me out ever since I was a kid! I feel the same as you. I guess I prefer to take life as it comes too! Also regarding extra curriculars for kids - I can’t speak as a parent because I don’t have kids, but speaking as someone who was once a kid - I appreciated so much that my parents supported me in any that I wanted to do, but never pushed me into anything. I remember doing some art classes I loved, and gymnastics which I also loved, but they were very firm that they would never sign me up to something without me asking them to, and never force me to keep going to something I didn’t love.
Save 20% on Caraway’s cookware set and stack an added 10% discount with my code JAMBEAUTY10 here → carawayhome.com/jessicabraun
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✨ V I D E O S M E N T I O N E D
🎥 the video I almost didn't post: ruclips.net/video/EA3nkmzJBKU/видео.htmlsi=IL8MvCfytQaGKDfq
🎥. more chores & chats videos: ruclips.net/p/PLzVhGARzals2SiK3c60fLdjrHScr0CuhL&si=VRw2yRRpYmlQtkE8
✨ W H A T I M E N T I O N E D (affiliate links):
silver necklace (16 inch): amzn.to/3MvhrWJ
my shirt was hauled here: ruclips.net/video/K9VSlktGjFU/видео.htmlsi=WYURs4B4bNQLULeN
over the door laundry hamper: amzn.to/477sij6
stain spray: amzn.to/3XkPM1a
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Well hi there! My name is Jessica and I live in the midwest (Indiana specifically) with my family (my husband Tyler @tylertravelstv + my 2 daughters + our beagle Pinocchio). I share lifestyle & wholesome vlogs, makeup & beauty finds, amazon and target favorites, cute fashion items, grocery hauls, quick meal ideas, and a bit about my journey through my life so far in my Coffee Chats series. I also love Disney and host our podcast @DisneyvillePodcast with my hubby Tyler! I hope you’ll stick around the join the fam by subscribing. 🤍
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#lifestylevlog #chores #productive #productivedayinmylife #productiveday
Who's to say that you're not living your dream now? You're working your dream job, you have a wonderful marriage and two amazing children, a home, friends, extended family, tons of good times. That's living the dream!
Especially the flexibility as a mom, so great!
Great point!
Feel like I was meant to see this today! For the past couple of weeks, I've been feeling down about not working or being successful. I recently got out of a complicated family job for 8 years and moved to a new state last year. My kids are now teenagers, and I can't really label myself as a stay-at-home mom. I'm very fortunate not to have to work but have so much guilt because I feel like I should be, by society? My husband is very supportive either way, but I can't shake the guilt of just working on myself, my family life, my mental health, and being at peace in my home with the guilt! ❤
My dream is just to be happy! So I say if finding what makes you happy doesn't count as a goal. What does? ❤
@@elizabethcampbell3203 Exactly! We're not here to suffer! Living and loving your family and yourself are extremely worthy goals and a wonderful way to spend your time. Congratulations on your new chapter and don't let society tell you what to do!
@@PatMcFadyenGrowingGradeByGrade Thank you! 🤗
I totally agree with you about kids not having to be in sports all the time. At our school we have all day kindergarten so the kids go from 9:15 until 330 every day. Now my daughter is in first grade with that same schedule, and that is a long day for her! She needs to rest after school!
I feel exactly the same way about long term dreams! It can get so easy to get caught up in the "somedays" that you don't enjoy the here and now. Short term goals work so much better for me.
I feel like sometimes focusing on dreams you miss out on peace and contentment.
Yes, being grateful for what the life you do have is everything. Dreams are the life we have in the here and now. Look up and praise our dear Lord for the life you have now. And are living it now. 🌞🌺
The "what ifs" in life remind me that there is a reason the rear view mirror is smaller than the windshield.
Oooh I love this analogy! Thank you!
Just wanted to say (not a parent) but one of the things i appreciated about my parents is that they never forced me to do any extra curriculars! I tried a few things (ballet, gymnastics) at 5-7 years old but decided I didn’t like them. I’m grateful my parents listened to me at that age and allowed me to choose when/what things I did outside of my education.
I literally just left a comment exactly like this and thought I was reading my own when I saw this 😂 I’m also so glad my parents supported what I wanted to do but never forced any of it on me.
Same! I work in an elementary school and hear the students talking about their after school schedule and it amazes me how busy they are at 5 and 6 years old! When do these kids have time to be a kid?
Regarding the question you responded to around 22:00 I'm a big fan of JRR Tolkien and one of my favorite quotes from him is "it's no bad thing to celebrate a simple life" 😊 it's okay to be content with life as it is and not have a huge dream for the future. I also feel overwhelmed when thinking about five years from now. Let me just take life one day, one week, one month, one year at a time. That's enough for me.
Loved the discussion about life/long-term goals. I’m in my mid twenties and have always felt alone and discouraged about not knowing what my “dream job” is or what I want my life to look like. I’ve often struggled with not knowing what my purpose is in life or what “gifts” I possess that will make me successful in any given aspect of life. Don’t think I’ve ever really heard anyone else address the topic, but it’s comforting to know that I’m not alone in the matter.
Regarding the subjects of goals, (simple and reasonable goals are definitely beneficial), but I heard this thought not too long ago and it made so much sense to me: “Can’t get so hung up on where you rather be…that you forget to make the most of where you are at this moment”.
Try your best, be your best (kind, loving, generous, forgiving, encouraging, caring,…) one day at a time. 😘💕💕💕 You will never have regrets. 🤩
Just what I needed today! I got my laundry folded watching you. Wholly agree (I’m at a very different phase of life, my daughter graduated uni last year) that the race to achieve Big Life Goals can be so exhausting and overwhelming. When I got promoted to manager, I chased Director. When that happened, my sister said - next, VP. Well, an MS diagnosis later, and I live by “How do you eat an elephant? A bite at a time.” 2-3 work tasks and 2-3 personal “goals” daily. That’s manageable. And if that goal is “schlep all the trash and recycling out” or pick up groceries - yay me!
Jess, you are so balanced, It's so refreshing! I don't end up the video feeling stressed or anxious, just *relaxed*.
what a nice comment! I'm so glad you feel relaxed watching my vids :) :)
Having your kid in a million extra curricular activities is overrated imo. Everyone is constantly on the go, most hate it and it's all just to keep up with what others are doing. I have had European friends tell me it's truly an american thing that others don't get lol
100%
I’m an American and I had two extra curricular activities as a kid and I don’t feel like a missed out. I agree it’s all nonsense my family life was chill and I remember it fondly just relaxing and eating together when I was young 😍🥰🥰 that’s what matters that’s what I’ll remember into old age not keeping up with the Jones’ or smiths etc I really couldn’t care less what they are doing as a child nor as an adult 😅😄
Jess, thank you for being so authentic. What you said about having a dream/5-10 year plan...that's exactly how I feel. And I've questioned if I'm not really an adult (even at 30) because of my lack of long term planning. Thank you for helping me feel seen ♥️
I think it should be more common to say that right now, I am living my dream. I am healthy, I have a family, I have a home and a job I love, etc etc.
We get so caught up in the later and often forget about the now. I feel the same way when talking about goals and dreams. It's one thing when we ask kids that, hoping to inspire them and maybe get them involved in things that will help them to achieve that. It's another level when asking adults lol . I hope that made sense.
This made SO much sense
Are we ever going to get a tour of the renovated basement?? 😆
My “dream career” left me burned out by the time I was 30. I took a job that was stable and provided me with decent income and benefits, but not super exciting or “impressive”I’ve been working 9 to 5 jobs ever since. One thing that these jobs have provided me that my “dream career” never did was time for things I love. I’d rather be happy having time to do what I want with my life that doesn’t bring income, than be stressed out and miserable in a “dream career”. Some people can do the grind, it just wasn’t for me. I have no regrets. Absolutely nothing that I planned for myself at 18 or 25 or 30 even happened. But I can’t imagine being happier now as I approach 50. Sending my love to all of you who are searching to find your place of joy and peace in life. ❤
I love you Jessica! You are so interesting, mature, inspirational and transparent. Truly my favorite RUclips Influencer!
Thank you so much!!! 💖💖💖
I am so with you with the activities for kids. My son comes home exhausted from school, he just started 1st grade and a lot of his classmates do things after school. It is way too much!
I add my old planners to my sentimental box because I love to look back and see what life was like. If it’s super bulky, sometimes I tear out pages I didn’t fill out or didn’t use. You can also take pics to keep the memory and then toss.
Oooh, I love the name, your sentimental box! I always called it my memory box, but your name is more descriptive. ♥️
I totally agree with you when you were talking about goals. I used to place these crazy expectations on myself and it is overwhelming. It can also make you feel inadequate when you don't meet the expectations of those dreams. You aren't alone in feeling that way, much love!!
I love your talk about enjoying the day to day life. I just do what I enjoy and focus on that.
The over the door laundry basket has been the greatest $10 I've ever spent. My kids are little (toddlers) and they will just throw their clothes off in the hall or bathroom before bath time and then they end up everywhere. Now that over the door laundry basket is on the bathroom door and it just keeps the clothes from being all over the floor and then can quickly throw the towels in before bringing it to the laundry room! Truly a game changer, so thank you!
It is truly the greatest invention ever 😂😂 we have two in our house now! I’m glad you love it too!!
Link it???
@Labsluv24 it's in her amazon storefront which I think is linked!
Thank you so much for your honesty and I can relate in so many things you shared. Too much of a busy culture leaves no room to think and gather throughts and be in peace and spend time together.
About the sports - I think your view on that is spot on. I love how you are not pressuring yourself because other parents are doing it. My parents never pushed me to get into sports and it was because I didn't want to LOL. I was more interested in music; like playing the piano and singing so they leaned into that. Now, my daughter is about to be 6 and she was the one who asked me if she can do gymnastics. My son does jiujitsu and he LOVES it. It is something he and his dad bond over! His dojo has gymnastics as well (a husband and wife own the complex). She would see the kids and became curious/interested. I signed her up, but it's not something I am forcing her to attend - she's only 5. I encourage it, but I also want it to be something she becomes passionate about on her own. If she moves on to something else, that's okay too.
Jessica- again, the content in this video I resonate with so much. When you spoke about thinking about goals 5 years out I ALWAYS think I am the failure and/or weirdo because everyone else seems to know and I just don’t. It also stresses me out. I’ve had to really do some work on myself the past few years to be ok with not knowing.
You are definitely not alone in your feelings!! ❤
My daughter is 20 now. Growing up we’ve only signed her up for a year for ballet, and art. Thats it. Nothing else and she’s not into any sports. I’m a piano teacher myself so she usually just tag along with me anywhere I go. She’s learned to entertain herself by reading and writing. Out of boredom is how she gets creative in writing, she writes so well and reads a ton. That’s the upbringing we want her to have. No obligations of running around.
Your shirt looks so chic I’m glad you got it on your special day! It looks so cute.
I loved when after you talked about goal s and dreams you said you were content, that is the true goal! If we’re always chasing something we’re never happy - small goals help us for sure, but living in the present and appreciating what we have is the best feeling :)
My caraway pan was super nonstick like that in the beginning but now 8 months in almost everything sticks. I like it but it’s so expensive I don’t find it to be worth it.
same, not gonna lie I was kinda disappointed to her advertising them when it's well documented how badly they hold up.
Same with Our Place pans. Too expensive and go bad after a couple of month. About a year ago I got an All-Clad non stick at TJ Maxx and it’s been fantastic.
I'm Asian (Filipino), and grew up outside of the US. I find that parenting here rewards hyper-busy-ness, and I doubt it's the healthiest for our children. Kids start at a very young age here being very busy with after school stuff, that there's hardly any time for real play and down time. I'm not a fan of this hyper competitive, hyper busy culture. It's great to foster our kids' passions (if they even have one; if not, it's okay). But they need as much rest and free play as possible to become healthy people. That's my 2cents (mom of a now-17yr old). P.S. I love your discussion on having / not having dreams; and ooh I like The Bolter too. :-)
I am so glad I am not the only one that feels that way about goals , I am happy and content where I am and I feel overwhelmed when ever I am forced to make long term goals. Thank you for being yourself
I’m always amazed of how you get everything done and still able to make videos that I always look forward to watching. So thank you😊
What a kind comment! ❤❤
Jessica, your videos give me so much comfort and calmness I can't even discribe🫂 whenever I'm anxious or stressed out about something, I know I can always turn to your videos🫂🥹 thank you for being yourself and making content for us❤
Thank you so much for sharing that with me!! It means so much to be any sort of comfort 😄😄
I agree 150% 😊
I think when it comes to activities and children it's important to let them choose what interests them and when they're ready for it. My oldest is in 8th grade and he only started getting really active in sports last year. My daughter's who are 6 and 3 have talked about dance and some other things but one started kindergarten and one started preschool so we're taking it slow. And for goals - they overwhelm me too! I feel like survival is the only consistent goal I have right now 😂
I saved this video so we could fold laundry together! 😂 Jessie is becoming my chore bestie 😅
Jess, your content is so appreciated!! When you talk about goals, life, career.. you just get it! You help us all feel a little less lost ♥️ thanks for the vlog and loooove that top!
Loved this style of video! Also you looked super pretty here Jesse
Yay! and thank you so much!! :)
The dream discussion is so relatable to me. And maybe it’s always been my way, but in the depths of motherhood with young children, and another on the way, I feel like day to day enjoyment is where I’m living right now. I used to be very goal driven or had longer term plans, but having kids has definitely changed my perspective
My chore today is canning tomato sauce! We picked 83# at a local farm yesterday. First load is in the canner so it's the perfect time for me to watch. ❤️
I love that you are content where you are at! As a therapist, I often find that clients too focused on 5-10 year goals, or always being in pursuit of something different are often those who feel unhappy with their life. Or they are unable to be fully present in their current life because they are so driven to obtain something different down the road. Nothing wrong with dreams and goals at all, especially when we know we need a change...we all have had goals and made changes at some points in our journeys. But I also think it is 100% okay to not have any big change or improvement you want to make, and that should really be more normalized in our culture. Being perfectly content where you are is a beautiful place to be.
Omg I had the whole club thing as well. I turned a deaf ear to everything and basically allowed my son to observe all the different clubs and choose where he wanted to spend his time. Honestly it was when he turned 5/5.5 when he started to like tennis and that was when we started his first club. It’s overwhelming enough without adding the ‘peer pressure’.
We love watching Australian cartoon: Bluey!!! Wholesome family program.
Jessica!
I have 3 boys (7-4-2)
And they are mellow and introverted kids by nature, they ask to be home all weekend, and they HATE playing areas because of the noise (mind you, they are the biggest noise makers in my house)
When my oldest turn 6 we started swimming classes in the summer and then he asked to be in the stay and play club after school so we did enroll him. He stayed there for 2 months then his coach told us what his strength points and what kind of sport he is good at which was tennis. We asked him if he wanted to focus on tennis for the rest of the year, and he said yes.
What I wanted to say is wait until your kid is ready and don’t waste money and time doing what other parents do.
Kids thrive on white spaces, and with school and homework they are very few moments where the kids be kids.
Anyways, i really love your vlogs the longer the better!!
You actually encouraged me to have a me day yesterday where i spent TWO uninterrupted hours in a bookshop, i went isle by isle discovering new-to-me books. Then went to dinner with my friends.
Love you, you are my virtual bestie
I’m with you on living life for the contentedness of now. I love goals but life is such a rollercoaster that I just prefer to enjoy the now. Goals for the future are great but they can be so much pressure!
Thankfully any non-stick pan is PFOA free as of 2013, so even Teflon is safe now. The thing with Caraway and other ceramics is that the non-stick just doesn't last that long and the pans themselves only last a few years, esp as often as folks like you cook. The exterior coating chips very easily as grease sticks to it then when removed, the coating comes off with it. The interior is the same, though less so. For the price, you're better off with one of the other ones on the market that are the same only cheaper since they won't last as long as they should. They do sponsor a lot of content creators and other groups so often the online reviews are skewed and hard to decipher the facts from. Is it a bad pan? No. It's just expensive and the non-stick doesn't last so you may as well buy something else cheaper that you can just replace like Blue Diamond or something.
I really love Greenpan and All Clad - they last so well and we do not baby our pans at all, they get so much wear, we chuck them in the dishwasher constantly. Not cheap for sure, but if you want to not replace anything anytime soon and just want like a few key everyday pans they’re amazing.
I so enjoyed this! And we ALL go thru phases and stages…at my core, I’m the same but why & how I do things have evolved. And I’m one of the blessed ones, married just before my 19th birthday & 43 years later we are still happy and working together to have a good life.
I’m so glad you said what you did about goals/dreams. I can relate! I’ve been in a transition period for the last 2 years wanting to figure out the next step. It’s only been recently that I’ve settled into what I’m doing (mostly!) and allowed myself to be where I’m at in life. It seems like the right thing for me right now. I’m not as content, but I am working toward it to try and create the life I want. ☺️❤️ Thanks Jess!
Yes, please continue doing more of these videos. Love you too. I've been watching you for over 10 years now. ❤
Love spending the day with you!❤
Me too 😚😚
Wow!! A Jess video on my birthday?! Love love love!!
Happy Birthday 🎈
Happy birthday! 🎉
Thank you!!
This was so interesting , i live in Ireland and I constantly moan about our wet weather but listening to you guys needing to think about storms that can destroy your homes, most our houses are not even built with basements . lol, i miss we don’t have great seasons i wish we did but we don’t need to worrry about extreme weather , always something to be grateful for ❤
“It’s possible to find joy & peace in life and just enjoy the day to day”. That statement brought tears to my eyes Jess 🥹. I’m also someone struggling with achieving a particular goal, and at 35 feeling like there are other things I could have worked toward instead of that but it’s ok. Ordinary days have purpose and the mundane can be appreciated when tough times eventually do arise. Keep positive and enjoy the little things. 💕💜
Jessica i feel like you are living your dream, your able to travel while living in a beautiful home, you own another property and have 2 beautiful children and an amazing husband. You have your health and you have a large family that you are close too. Your doing what you love instead of teaching.
I feel that is a dream life. The problem is often in life we tend to take things for granted, i have started this thing that at night i write down one thing that i am thankful for that day, it has helped tremendously in my happiness, we all have bumps in the road but i am always the one to say that others have it way worse.
My daughter, at around 9-10 months would empty her crib-threw out blankets and stuffed animals as a landing pad. She would shimmy down the side of the crib and play until we came to her room. My son would monkey himself out at around 7 months and call for us under the door! They are 28 and 22 now. Those are some of our favorite stories/memories of them. ❤
I did cheerleading for a year as a child and quit shortly into it since I didn't like waking up early and I'm introverted. I never did any other sports, but I took culinary in HS and loved it!! Now, as a mom, I won't pressure my child into anything but also allow them to try any and all activities they wish since that's how you're able to find your passion!
COMPLETELY AGREE about goals! I have absolutely no clue what I might want for my life in 5 or 10 years. And what does that matter? Too many things could come along and change that. But I know I’m happy and content right now. That’s all I need.
Love your chores and chats videos, Jess❣️I’m 61, but I still want to be like you when I grow up 😂❤💯Also, I raised six kids, and I was definitely not doing the soccer mom thing! It would have been waayyyy too time consuming to the point that soccer would consume our entire family time. However, swimming lessons was an absolute must! It was for them to be more confident, water safe, and they could all, for the most part, do it at the same time and place. They were also involved in the youth activities at church (AWANA) which had a bunch of physical activities that they loved doing with their church friends. They are all grown now and doing well. (Except for my third born who passed away from a plane accident almost seven years ago) . I just don’t believe in having kids schedules being so filled that they don’t have time to be “kids” with completely stressed out parents 😂
You sound like an amazing mom 🩷
@@tiffanyrogersfeuer1914 Awh thanks so much for saying that❣️It was very hard work but an absolute joy! Now I’m in Nana mode 🥰
So sorry about your son...🙏
@@alicepirola7077 thanks so much❤️🙏🏼
I love all your videos, but must say - vlogs are my favorite ❤️
My rule has always been only one activity at a time for each child, unless it is a short term activity added on. You were a teacher. You know down time and using their imagination are how kids learn the most. It is also important for their mental health and family time. Many American kids are overscheduled and don't have that. We shouldn't see young children with anxiety, burnout and no imagination, but we have in the past 20 years due to parents scheduling their every minute. I ordered those over the door laundry bags for all my kids' bathrooms and bedrooms last time you posted it.
Yessss, "Where do you see yourself in 5 years." puleezzz
Ugh thank you so much for touching on this topic. We are not all born with an innate desire to do a certain occupation or achieve some grand goal. Most of the jobs that we have now did not even exist when humans were first created; it was all about having family and surviving.
I feel the same way sometimes bc I feel like a jack of all trades but a master of none…which is a hard thing to be in this culture. All I do know is I cannot wait to be a mom, and I love the Lord!
Jessica, thank you for reminding me of the importance of being present! Goals and dreams are important to have, but useless if you never live in the moment or appreciate your day to day moments. My 40s are teaching me that. ❤
I feel the exact same way about dreams and goals! It’s just too overwhelming! I cannot 😂
I totally get that feeling of tackling chores while chatting! It's like a mini therapy session, right? Plus, I really need to check out that over-the-door laundry basket, sounds like a game changer! 🧺✨
it really is!!
CARAWAY THOUGHTS -
I loved my Caraway pots and pans I received as a wedding gift... UNTIL about a year and a half late when they totally lost their nonstick properties 😭 I always handwashed them and never used them above medium heat. Unfortunately, their warranty only lasted a year, so Caraway said there was nothing they could do. I ended up donating and buying an All Clad, which was SUPER disappointing given how much my Caraway set cost. I'm hoping my All Clad will last muchhhh longer than my Caraway.
Edit to add: I still love you though! ❤ currently doing laundry and watching this video.
I’m going to watch this later when I’m done playing with my daughter and she goes down for a nap, but I really appreciated your video about the transition into motherhood. Nobody talks about it. Only other mothers understand. And sometimes you’re shamed for something completely normal. It was a fantastic video and I’m so glad you posted it.❤ it really helped me as I am at that point where I’m finally starting to feel like myself again
What a lovely comment❤ how old is your daughter? My son is almost 2, and I didn't start to feel like myself until he was about 18 months.
@@catsav1 she just turned 2 a month ago. I had PPD for about a year, so I’m also finally feeling the joy of being a mom.
This was great to get my laundry folded while listening
Nashville, IN is such a fun fall time day trip! And Hard Truth during the fall is gorgeous.
Just here to say as a long time viewer you have grown so gracefully ❤❤ I love these types of videos! Thanks for creating such a comforting and judgment free space in a very overwhelming world
Love chores and chats ❤❤❤❤
I’m 53 and agree with you about being overwhelmed when thinking about goals in 5 or 10 years. I look at next week for mine. 😂 A I’m content.
Loving the white gold! 🤍
I feel the same exact way! I know lots of people who have their children in extracurricular activities, a lot of them it’s multiple activities and it does sound so overwhelming. I have three small kids, 5(almost 6), 4, and 1 and the two oldest are in preschool and kindergarten this year. I think adjusting to school is stimulating enough, and I’m an adult lol. You’re not alone! I’m going to wait until they’re a little older and can handle that busier schedule.
The “what are your goals/dreams” question has always stressed me out as well, even in high school I was indifferent on what I wanted to do. I went to college because my brother did, he was first generation college graduate, and honestly with all the pressure from school admin I thought that was what would help me succeed. I graduated in spring 2020 and the closer I got towards the end I just felt more stressed about finding a “real job.” Then everything shut down and my “internship” basically was just a big research project and manuscript since I couldn’t go out and do anything. I’ve been at my current job since college and have just worked my way up the corporate ladder, but I’m not really happy because I don’t like the restrictions of corporate and retail especially with scheduling and taking any time off. :/ People STILL ask what I want to do and I’m now 26 and at this point I get embarrassed because entry-level in the field I went to school for does not pay enough to survive in this economy. My husband and I both have to work. I don’t really have any big dreams or goals other than more freedom.
Taylor Swift mentioned!! lol the bolter is one of my favorite songs of hers
I’ve noticed my pans turning my food a different color. I threw that pan out. I need a good set of pans . It’s nice to hear you talk while you did house chores. I got my floors cleaned while listening to you. I think this is the first time I’ve come across your video ❤
Our church served coffee and donuts at church way back in the 80’s. I miss it!
I'm 40 so obviously my childhood was a different time, but our family rule was no more than one after school activity at a time. And yes that led to a stressful summer where I had to choose between softball and musicals. But going all in on the musical when I was ten led to a life long deep love for music performance. ☺️
I love what you said about dreams. I feel like chasing a dream can lead to missing out on the reality that things were already good.
I believe in one day at a time, but always try to make it a good day , for me the days,weeks,months and years fly by ( wow your girls are 2 and 6 now ) Thanks for being you Jessica ❤
This moment is the best moment of our lives. We are exactly where we are supposed to be. God and the Universe wants the best for us.
Screen time is an underrated tool for children with autism or adhd - it’s amazing to help kids regulate!❤
literally interrupted my vlogmas rewatch to watch this, just can't get enough of the Brauns right now lol
Hahaha yay for a Vlogmas rewatch!!
Love it when you do these kinds of videos 😄💖
You should get a lighter colored rug for the deck whenever you do replace it :) it’ll make the space feel even bigger and more zen
Our only daughter did many activities from gymnastics, cheerleading, soccer, then drama club, thespian, dance, she excelled in all. Loved it all ...but she is very outgoing and goal driven. It suited her being. All children are so different.
Her only child now, a girl, is 4 yrs and just started ballet and tap. So far she loves it and is thriving. Who is to say? Cater to each child individually is my take.
I grew up in foster care as a ward if the State and never got to do any extra curricular activities. Would have loved to have had a choice.
When I have those low energy days, I say "production is down at the gumption factory".
I have just started this video but I just needed to say- Jessica, silver jewelry is really looking so good on you! It suites you 🥰
I completely agree with you regarding long term goals. That concept is so overwhelming and freaks me out. I always dreaded that question at an interview. I'm just trying to get through life man. LOL
Thank you for the discussion about goals. I always say idk what I wanna be when I grow up. I just never have been a goal driven person. I really enjoyed this vid. Thanks for sharing it ❤
I was an over-scheduled kid as well as felt a lot of academic pressure and pressure to be “smart.” It led to a lot of anxiety and perfectionism that I’m now working on shedding in my 30s! I think it’s great for kids to find activities they like and participating in sports and activities is great for gaining confidence as well as identity development, but don’t stress about it too much and let Gigi find the things she likes to do. She doesn’t have to have an activity every day of the week!
I work with students and the pressure on them from all angles (parents, school, society) is insane... especially at the high school level. There's a reason anxiety and other similar issues are so prevalent today. It's really sad and I worry about their mental health all the time.
@@striketochill I have a stepdaughter who is just starting 10th grade and I’m currently in school myself to become a mental health counselor so I definitely agree!!
@@WallxFlower She's lucky to have a stepmom who understands! I think with your personal experience and education, she's going to be in such a better place than other kids. Good job!
@@striketochill Thanks, that’s very kind ❤️ She’s been a part of my life since she was just turning 2 and this developmental stage is definitely a challenging one to navigate 😅, but I’m trying my best!
I had a tough time focusing on this video because I was mesmerized by your nail color.
I also feel overwhelmed at the thought of toddler/young child activities. And, I also feel the same about being super content in the day-to-day. I know some people always want to achieve the next milestone in their career, life, etc. but I've never really been drawn to that mindset. Sure, there are things I want to achieve, but they don't consume me in a way that doesn't allow me to appreciate where I am and how far I've come.
My weekends are boring! Usually cleaning house on Saturday. Sunday is church, meal planning, grocery shopping, and then meal prepping.
I absolutely love that over the door laundry bag! You made me buy it Jessica😄❤️
Wow the question about purpose when everything has failed …. Got me
I relate to so much of this honestly - goal setting always stressed me out ever since I was a kid! I feel the same as you. I guess I prefer to take life as it comes too!
Also regarding extra curriculars for kids - I can’t speak as a parent because I don’t have kids, but speaking as someone who was once a kid - I appreciated so much that my parents supported me in any that I wanted to do, but never pushed me into anything. I remember doing some art classes I loved, and gymnastics which I also loved, but they were very firm that they would never sign me up to something without me asking them to, and never force me to keep going to something I didn’t love.
My boss always says “ aim low, but aim up”. I find this surprisingly motivating with no feeling of pressure.❤
Love the makeup look throughout the video! Your eyes look so hazel-y. 😄
Got some packing done, laundry, washed makeup brushes etc while watching! Thanks Jess for letting me do some chores with you! XOXO
I’m glad you did some chores alongside me!! 😊
I totally agree and feel the same way about the whole goal/dream thing!!❤️