Emily Sanders – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com Here today, better tomorrow. Fri, 02 Oct 2020 18:55:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.3 https://wp-media.familytoday.com/2020/03/favicon.ico Emily Sanders – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com 32 32 3 simple stitches for mending your broken heart https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/3-simple-stitches-for-mending-your-broken-heart/ Mon, 02 Nov 2015 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/3-simple-stitches-for-mending-your-broken-heart/ Just like anything that is torn, broken hearts require mending.

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Just like anything that is torn, broken hearts require mending.

Unfortunately, the process of putting those pieces back together can be rather difficult. Each experience of heartache is different, thus, there is not a single formula that will help fix every case.

However, there are three basic stitches that can be used to ensure that your shattered heart is mended properly.

Stitch #1: Get it all out

This first stitch is extremely important.

The worst thing you could possibly do when you are feeling hurt is bottle it up. Yes, it is hard to feel your heart being ripped apart, and the natural reaction is to try and suppress such unpleasant emotions, but don't do it.

When you bury heartache, it does not simply go away. It goes dormant. Eventually, it will rise to the surface, making you feel the pain all over again.

One way or the other, your heart is going to force you to face your feelings- might as well get it over with sooner than later.

So, get it all out! Let yourself mourn the loss of something that was once wonderful. Remember that it is okay to cry. The pain you are feeling just shows that you loved with all of your heart. You used it well. Now it is time to use it in a different way.

Stitch #2: Get busy

When your whole life seems to be crumbling before your eyes, it is easy to give up and slump into a depression.

Don't do it.

Don't let that empty hole in your chest turn into a black hole, taking with it every hope of happiness. Instead, fill that space with your dreams and stitch it back together.

Get out and do things. Have fun. Learn something new.

If you have always wanted to learn how to play the guitar, sign up for lessons. Join that book club. Have a girls' night. Learn how to cook that fancy dish you love. Go on walks with your dog. Visit your cousin in California you've been dying to see for the past 3 years. Volunteer at a soup kitchen. Be around people.

Don't lock yourself in the house with chick flicks and chocolate chunk ice cream. This kind of behavior is acceptable for the first night or two, but after that, it is time to get busy finding a new happy place.

Stitch #3: Feel

When a heart is broken, it is crucial that the owner mends it properly.

Unfortunately, too many people neglect to use this last, most important stitch when trying to recover from heartache. This final stitch requires you to open your heart back up and feel love again.

Often those who have suffered from a torn heart will attempt this stitch, but fail to feel the proper emotion required to complete it. Instead, they will open their heart up to feelings of anger, bitterness, depression, anxiety, regrets, hate, revenge, self-pity and insecurity.

Allowing your heart to dwell on these feelings will not help your heart to heal. It will twist and harden it.

The only feelings that will help fix your shattered heart are love, forgiveness, happiness, confidence and peace.

Now, I know these are not easily felt when one experiences the sorrow of heartache. However, it is very important that you allow yourself to feel these emotions. Feelings of love and forgiveness heal emotional wounds like nothing else can.

As you use these three simple stitches in your life, you will feel your broken pieces begin to mend.

Remember that healing takes time. There is no "quick fix" for mending a broken heart. You will still have to go through the heartache and pain. However, using these stitches will help your wounds to heal correctly and give you back a healthy and happy heart.

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5 lies about love you have started to believe https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/5-lies-about-love-you-have-started-to-believe/ Sun, 06 Sep 2015 07:05:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/5-lies-about-love-you-have-started-to-believe/ You might be surprised at how many lies have crept into your life.

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The most frightening of the world's lies are the ones that creep ever so slowly into our daily lives through the media. These little lies are repeated over and over again until our minds begin to believe them.

Here are five of those lies about love that you have probably started to believe:

1. Love means never having to say you're sorry

Anyone who has ever had any kind of healthy relationship knows that this is totally untrue. Obviously, whoever came up with this phrase knows very little about true love. A good relationship depends upon a couple's ability to resolve conflicts. Those who do not know how to work through problems, apologize for mistakes and forgive offenses made against them are not very capable of maintaining loving relationships. Remember, no one is perfect. Not you. Not your sweetheart. Thus, blunders will be made and feelings will be hurt. When you truly love someone, you will do whatever it takes to make things right when times get rough. Love means saying sorry often and forgiving repeatedly.

2. When the spark is gone, the love is gone

Just because the sparks and butterflies aren't flying around like they used to doesn't mean your love has died. That twitterpated feeling is not love; it is a product of love. But true love is caring so deeply for someone that his or her happiness and well-being are more important to you than your own.

Those fluttering feelings are of course important in a romantic relationship. However, do not make the mistake of thinking that your love is gone if those sparks fade. Do not give up on it so easily. If it has lost its sparkle, polish it up! Look at your relationship and find things that are lacking. Work on them with your sweetheart and fall in love all over again.

3. Love is disposable

It is sad to admit, but we live in an extremely selfish world. Media has pumped the idea into our minds that everything is disposable. If your phone is broken, get an upgrade. If your clothes aren't up-to-date, go buy new ones. If your marriage isn't everything you dreamed it would be, throw it away and find something better. It is really rather pathetic.

It is time to wake up and realize that certain things are made to last. Love is not a toy that will eventually need to be replaced by something shinier. True love was made to endure anything. It was not meant to be temporary. It was not meant to be thrown away.

4. There is no such thing as a happily ever after

Anyone who has started to believe this lie has probably heard, said or thought something to the effect of, "Welcome to the real world." Unfortunately, this "real world" is often seen as a world of pain, suffering, hardships and certainly no happy endings. Why have we chosen to make our view of the "real world" a negative one? Yes, life is hard — harder than you ever thought it would be. Your heart has probably been broken at least once. Hopes and dreams have most likely been crushed multiple times. It has been rough. But that is not everything life has to offer.

Amidst trials, you can still choose to be happy and love with all your heart. No, your life isn't a fairytale. No, fairy tales aren't even real. But, believe it or not, you do not need a dashing prince to have a happily ever after.

5. All you need is love

This is a very popular lie that, unfortunately, many people have started to believe. They have begun to think that if you have love, nothing else matters. This is wrong. Love is wonderful, but it isn't "all you need." If you want your relationship to last, you need a sweet friendship, total trust, feelings of respect, a great deal of forgiveness, lots of patience, effective communication, complete support and loads of laughter.

Your relationship will not survive life's many curveballs if it is based solely on romance. If it is not rooted in something deeper, it will blow away at the first sign of a storm. This true, deep love doesn't stop bad things from happening, but it does make life worth living.

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12 things women say vs. what they actually mean https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/12-things-women-say-vs-what-they-actually-mean/ Tue, 01 Sep 2015 06:35:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/12-things-women-say-vs-what-they-actually-mean/ That moment when the word "yes" actually means "no"...

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The truth is, women are complicated. We play games, give hints and say just about anything other than what we really mean. Everything seems to have a deeper meaning or no meaning at all. It is crazy and confusing.

The worst part is that we expect the poor guys around us to decipher our madness and respond in the correct way. This unrealistic expectation has unfortunately led to many broken relationships and miscommunications.

It is difficult to understand women. We don't even really understand ourselves half of the time! So, to help others avoid further confusion and hurt feelings, this list will aid men in interpreting common phrases the women in their lives say on a daily basis.

Here are 12 things women say verses what they actually mean:

1. "I'm fine"¦"

The proper response to this is, "Are you sure?" You might even want to ask this a couple times to be safe. She will not tell you that she is totally not fine the first time you ask. She is probably in need of a good cry, venting session or hug. However, you must first prove that you really care about how she is feeling.

2. "Sorry, what?"

Quickly, revaluate your previous statement. It is possible that she honestly didn't hear you and would like you to repeat what you just said. Most likely, she heard you loud and clear. This is just your chance to change your answer.

3. "It's okay."

It is not okay. Take note of her body language and tone of voice. You might benefit from groveling on your hands and knees at this point.

4. "Does this make me look fat?"

This indicates she feels ugly and it is up to you to make her feel like the beautiful person she is. Do not mess this one up.

5. "Whatever."

She knows that you have won this one, but is not ready to openly admit it and accept defeat. Be careful not to rub it in. You won't be winning next time"¦

6. "Awww"¦"

Either she just saw or heard something absolutely adorable, or you just did something really sweet. Quickly check if there are any fluffy animals or gurgling babies in sight. If not, good job. Keep going in the direction you were headed.

7. "We need to talk."

She has a lot of things to say. Get ready to listen and insert the right comments at the right times.

8. "Five minutes!"

It is going to take at least twenty. Maybe two hours. Whatever it ends up being, get ready to wait patiently. Do not rush her. (Tip: When she finally emerges from the bathroom, only comment on how gorgeous she looks. Don't mention the time.)

9. "Yes."

Sometimes this really does mean yes. Half the time it is a maybe or a no though. It is extremely hard to distinguish the difference. When in doubt, just assume that it is a real "yes" and hope for the best.

10. "Maybe"¦" or "No."

No. Just no.

11. "Oh, you don't need to get me anything."

Notice the word "need" in this sentence. No, you don't need to get her anything, but she secretly wants you to. Do not miss this opportunity to show her that your gift isn't an act of duty. Show her you want to get her something anyway. You will score major points with this one.

12. "Do whatever you want."

Alert! Alert! This is totally a test. Do not make the rookie mistake of thinking that she is actually fine with whatever you want to do. She is seeing if you know her well enough to be able to guess what she wants you to do. Why do women do this? I have no idea. But good luck.

Remember, these translations may not apply in every situation. Unfortunately there are no blanket interpretations that are guaranteed to be accurate every time. Much depends on the woman, her communication style and the context in which certain things are said. But hopefully, this list will give all you guys out there a good start!

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12 untranslatable words that describe love in a way English can’t https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/12-untranslatable-words-that-describe-love-in-a-way-english-cant/ Thu, 27 Aug 2015 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/12-untranslatable-words-that-describe-love-in-a-way-english-cant/ Have you ever struggled to find just the right word to perfectly express your feelings? These beautiful words might be…

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Love is a crazy and confusing thing. Throughout history, men and women have searched for ways to perfectly describe this intense feeling of the heart. We have mounds of poetry, literature, music and works of art that are dedicated to this very cause. Yet, we still struggle to explain our feelings.

Have you ever thought that maybe we need to try stepping outside the constrictions of our own language and look at words others around the world have created to express this emotion?

Here are 12 untranslatable words that describe feelings of love in a way that English just can't:

Koi no yokan (Japanese)

Maybe it wasn't love at first sight, but there was definitely a spark the first time you looked into each other's eyes. This phrase describes the feeling that you get when first meeting someone, knowing that you two will eventually fall in love.

Forelsket (Norwegian)

Starry-eyed and stomach full of butterflies — this Norwegian word can be used to describe that intoxicatingly euphoric feeling you experience when you first fall in love.

Iktsuarpok (Inuit)

Let's be honest. We have all obsessively checked the window to see if our sweetheart's car has pulled up yet. This word can be used to encompass that feeling of anticipation you get when you are waiting for someone special to show up at your house.

L'esprit de escalier (French)

You know that "want to kick yourself" feeling you get after a conversation when you think of all the things you should have said? The French have you covered with this one.

Yuanfen (Chinese)

Do you feel like you two were meant to be or made for each other? In Chinese, this word refers to a relationship designed by fate or destiny.

Kilig (Tagalog)

This word describes that blush-producing, giddy rush you feel right after something good happens to you, such as accidentally bumping into your crush.

Viraag (Hindi)

Unsure of how to express the heartache you are going through? Hindi has the perfect word for you. This term can be used to encompass the crushing emotional pain of being separated from someone you love.

Saudade (Portuguese)

Sometimes English just can't quite describe that "melancholic nostalgia you feel for someone or something from the past." Portuguese can.

Kummerspeck (German)

Remember that time you got a bad case of the post-breakup blues and decided to eat everything in the house? Well, the Germans found a way to describe those Ben & Jerry's pounds you gained during your emotional overeating. This amazing word literally means "grief bacon" (This isn't technically a feeling of love, but it was too good not to share).

Retrouvailles (French)

Translated into English, this word means "rediscovery." It refers to the joy that you feel upon being reunited with a loved one after a long separation.

Kara sevda (Turkish)

Have you ever loved someone so much that it is actually painful? Literally translating to "black love," this lovesick term describes that passionate and blinding love you feel for another person.

Tuqburni (Arabic)

"You bury me." Arabic has created a beautiful word that can be used to describe that "I cannot imagine life without you" feeling.

The next time you are agonizing over finding just the right words to explain your deep emotions of the heart, try looking outside your own language. Turns out there are some pretty amazing words out there!

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10 ridiculously simple steps to becoming more likable https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/10-ridiculously-simple-steps-to-becoming-more-likable/ Mon, 24 Aug 2015 06:35:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/10-ridiculously-simple-steps-to-becoming-more-likable/ Anyone can become more likable. And it is easier than you think.

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As human beings, we each possess different qualities and traits. Some we were born with. Others have been learned along the way. As we grow and progress, we make adjustments to these qualities to better refine them. However, some seem to be more difficult to improve than others. One of these is likability. People think that just because they are not a naturally likable person, they can never be. What most people do not realize is that this trait is easier to polish up than you ever thought.

Here are 10 ridiculously simple steps to becoming more likable:

1. Don't hold back a smile

This has to be the oldest trick in the book. You will be surprised at what a little smile can do. When you smile, you automatically look more approachable and friendly. People are naturally drawn to you. You light up the room. And just like that, you are on your way to becoming more likable. Isn't that easy?

2. Bring out your classy

Like it or not, presentation is everything. If you are looking to become more likable, try cleaning yourself up a bit. Good manners, grooming and language go a long way when it comes to impressions. Of course, these things alone will not guarantee an increase in your likability. Ultimately, who you are on the inside will either dim or enhance your surface appearance.

3. Be humbly confident

Confident doesn't mean stuck up, and humble doesn't mean insecure. There is a middle ground between narcissistic and timid. This is where the likable people live.

4. Open up your body language

Folded arms, crossed legs and averted eyes are great ways to make people feel unimportant. It gives off the feeling that you are closed off and uninterested in anything to do with them. Obviously, this is not the vibe we are looking for. Instead, try to open up your body language. For example, stay away from anything that makes you look stiff and formal. Relax a little. It will make the people around you feel comfortable in your presence. Avoid crossing your arms and keep good eye contact as you converse with others. Interestingly, it has been found that mirroring the stance, weight distribution and facial expressions of the person you are talking to causes a subconscious bond to form. Try it out!

5. Be genuine in your compliments

If you want to be a charmer, go for the elaborate flattery. If you want to become more likable, keep the compliments sincere. Genuine compliments make others you come into contact with feel noticed, appreciated and admired. Remember that compliments do not just have to be geared towards physical appearance. If you want to make them feel really sincere, go deeper and praise someone for his or her strengths and admirable qualities. As you boost people's confidence, you will also boost their opinion of you.

6. Ask loads of questions

Turns out the majority of people really like to talk about themselves, and they like the people who ask them to. When engaging in a conversation, try to keep it focused on the person you are talking to. Ask them questions about their life, opinions, relationships, memories, etc. Just keep them talking.

7. Show gratitude

A little gratitude goes a long way. People like it when you show gratitude for the things they have done. It enhances their respect for you and makes you more likable in their eyes. Notice the small acts of kindness people do for you each day and tell them "Thank you." Everyone appreciates being appreciated.

8. Be an active listener

We have moved past the days of kindergarten, where listening meant being quiet until you got to hold the "talking stick." Yes, believe it or not, simply being silent while waiting for your turn to speak isn't going to cut it anymore. If you want to be more likable, you need to practice being an active listener. Really pay attention to what the person you are talking to is saying. Nod your head, ask follow-up questions, react with emotion, etc. These little actions show the other person that you are interested and engaged. And guess what? People like that.

9. Use names

This one might seem a little too simple, but using someone's name as you talk makes him or her feel a closer connection to you. This is a subtle way of showing someone that you care. It will add a personal touch and increase your likability.

10. Focus on the positive

No one likes to be around pessimists. They are emotionally draining and suck the happy out of everything. Being around optimists, however, has the opposite effect. People are drawn to their sunny outlooks and positive energy. Why? Because it is refreshing. There is enough negativity in this world. Anyone can come up with something to complain about. That is why we tend to like the people that find the good.

By using these simple steps, you will find yourself becoming more and more likable. Not only to others; to yourself as well. So, give it a try! And become the ridiculously likable person you were made to be.

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7 things you should be thinking about every night before bed https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/7-things-you-should-be-thinking-about-every-night-before-bed/ Tue, 18 Aug 2015 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/7-things-you-should-be-thinking-about-every-night-before-bed/ It doesn't matter if your day was fabulous or horrendous. How you choose to end it makes all the difference.

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After a hard day many people go to bed with regrets and negative thoughts overwhelming their minds. Sleep becomes a way to escape the present and hasten the arrival of a new dawn. In these moments, most people forget that how you choose to end your day makes all the difference.

Before turning out the lights, you should think of at least"¦

1 positive thing that happened today

Let's face it. There will be days when the only positive thing you can think of is the fact that you are still breathing. That's just life. It doesn't matter how bad it gets. Make a goal to find the positive in your life. If you look hard enough, you will always be able to find a silver lining in the midst of a storm.

2 things you are going to try to improve on tomorrow

The key to success is constant improvement. Always strive to better yourself. Each night before you head to bed, make sure to set achievable goals that you can work on the next day. Working on these small goals will help you gain hope for the future and a feeling of purpose in your life. Little by little, you will see yourself become the kind of person you were meant to be.

3 people you helped today

Serving others is one of the best ways to feel fulfilled in life. And the amazing thing is, these acts of service do not have to be anything grand. Simply smiling at a stranger and greeting them with a friendly "hello" can be service. As you do this, you will find a happiness that you have never experienced before. You will come to realize that it is the little selfless things you do each day that matter most.

4 things you love about yourself

Instead of picking apart your flaws, try to think about all the things you love about yourself. It can be physical features, talents, behaviors, virtues, accomplishments, etc. These things will help prevent your mind from producing self-destructive thoughts after a disastrous day. Focusing on your strengths will increase your confidence and create a happier you.

5 times you laughed today

A life filled with laughter is a life well lived. Try to laugh at least five times each day. Believe it or not, the simple act of laughing improves your mood, relieves stress and promotes good health. So don't skip out on your daily dose of laughter. It will do you good.

6 people you care about

Turn your attention to the people that mean the most to you. Take time each night to think about the people that love, lift and build you. They could be family members, friends or coworkers. At the end of a rough day, thinking about these people will help build your self-assurance and remind you whose opinions are really important in your life.

7 things you are grateful for

If you don't have time to think about anything else before drifting off, think about this. Mentally list off seven or more things you are thankful for each night. In looking for things to be grateful for, you will find that you have been blessed with far more than you realize.

Whether you had a fabulous day or a horrendous day, try to always finish it with these powerful thoughts. They will influence your life for the better and help you avoid falling into the trap of negativity and self-destruction. Always remember, how you choose to end your day makes all the difference.

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This incredible story of a girl born without legs proves that there is nothing you ‘can’t’ do https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/this-incredible-story-of-a-girl-born-without-legs-proves-that-there-is-nothing-you-cant-do/ Thu, 13 Aug 2015 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/this-incredible-story-of-a-girl-born-without-legs-proves-that-there-is-nothing-you-cant-do/ Professional acrobat and inspiring gymnast, Jennifer Bricker, grew up with one rule: Never say the word "can't."

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Here's what happens when you're raised never saying the words "I can't". This is one of the most unbelievable and inspiring stories I've ever heard!

Posted by Rose Cole on Friday, February 6, 2015

Born without legs and abandoned the day she was born, Jennifer Bricker did not seem to have much of a future in store for her. That was until Gerald and Sharon Bricker, a couple from a small town in Illinois, decided to adopt Jennifer and raise her as their own.

As she grew up, Jennifer was given one important rule: Never say the word "can't." She was encouraged to pursue her interests and live her dreams.

In an interview, Jennifer said, "If you are never given limits, then you think, 'I can do anything.'"

Bricker proved that she coulddo anything, despite what most people would consider a crippling handicap. But Jennifer did not consider herself handicapped in the least. She played various sports, including softball, volleyball and basketball. Inspired by her childhood idol and Olympic gold medalist, Dominique Moceanu, Jennifer decided to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a gymnast. Before you knew it, the little girl that practiced flips on the trampoline with her dad had turned into the tumbling state champion and competitor in the Junior Olympics.

Jennifer was 16 when she finally decided to ask her parents about her adoption. All she wanted to know was what her biological last name would have been. The answer? Moceanu. Yes, Jennifer Bricker was the younger sister of her biggest hero and greatest inspiration.

A few years later Jennifer got up the courage to send a letter to her long-lost sister explaining the situation. She included photos and adoptive papers, to ensure Dominique would not write off the whole thing as one big joke.

The first time the two sisters spoke to each other on the phone, Bricker casually mentioned that she had no legs. Moceanu remembers thinking, "Who is this girl? How did she have this attitude to persevere in life and overcome every obstacle? And she's my sister!"

The gymnast sisters have since been reunited and are constantly amazed at all the similarities they have between them. "The tones in our voices, our handwriting, the way we laugh and chuckle. It's mind-blowing," Dominique told interviewers.

To this day, Jennifer continues to pursue her dreams with the loving support of two families. She has gone on to become a professional acrobat, even touring with Britney Spears. Her zeal for life and incredible attitude have impacted people worldwide. Jennifer has become living proof that there is nothing you "can't" do.

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12 signs you were totally made for each other https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/12-signs-you-were-totally-made-for-each-other/ Tue, 11 Aug 2015 06:35:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/12-signs-you-were-totally-made-for-each-other/ Would you describe your relationship as "meant to be" or "too good to be true"? Chances are, you two were…

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A wink and a smile. Birds and the sky. Shoes and socks. Peanut butter and jelly.

Let's face it. Some things are just made for each other.

When it comes to our own lives, we often call these "made for each other" relationships "meant to be" and "too good to be true." They are what every person hopes to find someday. Have you found yours?

Here is a list of twelve signs you and your sweetheart were totally made for each other:

1. You laugh at the same stupid things

Jokes with no punchline, singing off key, llamas, embarrassing moments... You have started to forget what your own laugh sounds like because it is usually mixed with the sound of hers. You have about a billion inside jokes because you are always laughing together.

2. You finish each other's sentences

When you pause what you are saying to search for a word, he finds it. You have lost count of how many times you have both started to say the exact same thing at the exact same time. It really feels like you can read each other's minds. Sometimes you even catch yourself wondering why you bother talking to each other in the first place. You already know what he is going to say.

3. Her problems feel like your own

It is impossible to feel happy when your sweetheart is feeling sad. Empathy comes easily for you both because you seriously seem to feel what the other feels. Dealing with life struggles has been so much easier since you found each other. You go through every up and down together.

4. He makes you want to be a better person

Both of you are constantly striving to improve yourselves. Not because of criticism or suggestions made; simply being together makes you want to be a better person.

5. You are unbelievably similar

There is nothing coincidental about it. The more you have gotten to know each other, the more you realize how weirdly similar you are. You like the same music, movies, sports, books and ice cream flavors. Even your beliefs, values, hopes and dreams match up. In fact, sometimes it has freaked you out. Like that time you found out she only eats the yellow and green Skittles, too? Yeah. That was uncanny.

6. His weaknesses are your strengths

Even your differences match up. His weaknesses are your strengths, and your weaknesses are his strengths. You finally understand what people mean when they say, "we complete each other." When you are nervous, he is calm. When he doesn't understand, you know the answer. You are constantly growing and learning from each other. Together, there is nothing you https://www.instagram.com/p/BVppO_LFjx3/?tagged=engagementphotoscannot do.

7. You try to make it work - no matter what

When the going gets rough, calling it quits is not an option. After a quarrel, both of you will do just about anything to make things right. You will stick together through anything because you both know that together is where you belong.

8. You absolutely adore everything about each other

Instead of finding little mannerisms annoying, you love each other for them. He finds it extremely endearing every time you hiccup before sneezing and is rarely able to resist stealing a kiss when he sees you absentmindedly twirling your hair. You adore the way he walks, talks and whistles when he is happy. And, man! That crooked smile gets you every time.

9 . Being together just feels right

You can't quite put your finger on it, but when she is by your side, things just feel... right. Being together is easy and comfortable. It really feels like "coming home."

10. You talk openly about everything

There is no such thing as a secret in your relationship. You tell each other everything from how your day at work was to how you felt during the darkest moment of your life. There is a strong feeling of trust and respect between you. You can always depend on her to be a safe place where you know your thoughts and concerns will be listened to.

11. He is truly your best friend

The only reason you haven't made friendship bracelets is because you are not in second grade anymore. And, let's face it, "best friends forever" doesn't even do your relationship justice. You truly seem to be made for each other. There isn't a single person in this world that gets you quite like he does. You feel free to let out your nerdy and crazy side when he is around, knowing that he loves you for it.

12. Life would be so empty without her

Even though you are perfectly capable of living without her, the thought of having to makes you feel sick to the stomach. Something huge would be missing from your life if she was not a part of it. Your sweetheart is your happy, your sad, your fun, your peace, your excitement, your heart... your everything.

Now, if this list does not ring true for you, remember that many of the things mentioned above can be acquired over time. Just because this isn't your relationship at the moment, doesn't mean that it never will be. If you work on these things with your partner, little by little you will begin to make yourselves for each other.

For those of you who feel like this article described your relationship perfectly, consider yourselves incredibly blessed. You have found your "too good to be true." And just like a lock and key, you and your sweetheart were totally made for each other.

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7 deadly dangers you need to protect your children from this summer https://www.familytoday.com/family/7-deadly-dangers-you-need-to-protect-your-children-from-this-summer/ Fri, 07 Aug 2015 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/7-deadly-dangers-you-need-to-protect-your-children-from-this-summer/ Summertime can be harsh. You need to protect your children from the scorching sun, deep waters and angry bees. But…

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We have all been warned of the evils of dehydration, heat stroke, bee stings, drowning and scorching sunburns in the summertime. Reminders to keep your little ones lathered in sunscreen and bug spray are floating all over the Internet. However, there are many other summertime dangers that do not get the attention they need.

Here are seven deadly dangers that all parents should be aware of this summer:

1. Picnic poisoning

A summer picnic at the park is a wonderful family activity. However, there is something all parents should be aware of as they pack their baskets: food poisoning. Surprisingly, picnic food poisoning puts thousands of people in the hospital each summer. Anything that contains mayonnaise, eggs, dairy or meat can develop bacteria in just a couple of hours when left in the sun. To avoid this, try packing your meal in a chilled cooler to ensure things stay bacteria-free. Also, make sure all picnic foods are fully cleaned and cooked before eating.

2. Playground burns

Sitting under the blazing summer sun, playground equipment can really heat up. If it gets hot enough, a fun day at the park could end in the tears of little children who have gotten burned by their magical world. Always check out the temperature of the equipment before letting your kids play. Playgrounds with metal slides should be avoided altogether.

3. Secondary drowning

Your trip to the pool was a success. Besides having to scold your son for dunking his younger sister under the water, things went well. The kids are at home, happily playing in the backyard. No one drowned "¦ yet.

Secondary drowning or "near drowning" occurs when a child accidentally inhales water while swimming. The water trapped inside the child's lungs produces an inflammatory effect, causing the act of breathing to become extremely difficult. If secondary drowning is left untreated, the result can be fatal. If you notice your son or daughter coughing, acting abnormally tired or having changes in his or her mental and emotional behavior after a day at the pool, go to the emergency room immediately.

4. Amusement accidents

A fun family day trip to the amusement park can quickly become less amusing when you find yourself racing to the hospital. Although public amusement parks are required to pass strict safety tests, the reality is, accidents still happen. Check that your child follows the rules and instructions for each ride. They might seem obvious and rather obnoxious to you, but something as simple as keeping your "arms and legs inside the ride at all times" or waiting until "the cart has come to a complete stop before exiting" could save your little ones from bruises, broken bones and concussions.

It is also very important to have the "stranger danger" talk with your kids before entering an amusement park. Make sure everyone has a buddy at all times and warn your children about talking to strangers.

5. Window falls

Each day, approximately 14 children are treated for injuries related to window falls. With the increase in temperature comes an increase in the number of windows opened in each house. Believe it or not, this can be a very serious danger, especially to toddlers and small children. Toddlers are prone to exploring new things, and looking out an open window on a sunny day has proved to be a rather common temptation. Leaning out to see what wonderful things are out there, these top-heavy little ones tumble out the window. Tragically, these falls can result in horrible injuries and early deaths.

6. Amputated toes

Even Saturday chores can take a disastrous turn for the worst. There have been too many children hurt by lawn mowers and other yard work machinery during the summer. Always have your kids put on sturdy close-toed shoes and long pants before helping out with the lawn. It is well worth protecting those little fingers and toes.

7. Hot car tragedies

I am sure many of us have heard the awful stories of sleeping babies left in a hot car that never woke up. These stories are absolutely heartbreaking. Parents, never leave your child in the car on a summer day - even for a few minutes. Children under the age of four are extremely vulnerable to high temperatures. A few minutes left in the heat can have deadly consequences.

Keep these things in mind as you and your family go about your summer fun. Becoming aware and spreading this awareness to others of these deadly dangers will help prevent little ones from suffering horrible injuries and illnesses this season. It could even save a child's life.

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10 things truly confident women do NOT do https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/10-things-truly-confident-women-do-not-do/ Thu, 06 Aug 2015 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/10-things-truly-confident-women-do-not-do/ Truly confident women know which habits destroy confidence. Do you?

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What is the difference between a truly confident woman and a totally insecure one? Everything. The way she walks, talks, thinks, feels and interacts with others are completely different. True confidence is built from within.

In order to build this strength within, truly confident women have figured out which things they should put into their lives and which they should take out. Here is a list of some of those things a truly confident woman simply does not do.

1. Compare herself to others

A truly confident woman is content with who she is. Seeing another pretty face does not make her feel ugly, because she knows that life is not a competition. She does not keep score of who is the most clever, talented or beautiful.

2. Seek happiness from outside sources

Truly confident women do not depend on others to make themselves happy. They understand that happiness is a choice. When life isn't giving them lemons, they simply grow their own tree.

3. Talk constantly

A confident woman does not need to be the center of attention at all times. She is totally fine stepping aside to give someone else the spotlight.

4. Feel the need to follow trends

Truly confident women are not followers. They do not feel the need to "fit in." If they find something they like, they will jump on board. If not, they are perfectly fine wearing an outfit that is "so last season."

5. Blame others

Truly confident women are well aware that pointing fingers should have ended in third grade. These ladies take responsibility for their own actions. They are not afraid to admit their faults, face their own problems and apologize to those they have wronged.

6. Pick apart her appearance

A truly confident woman does not look in the mirror and see only her imperfections. She knows that bothersome blemishes and bad hair days are temporary. Even her pretty face will succumb to wrinkles and age spots over time. Because of this, a confident woman will often spend more time enhancing her inner beauty than her outward appearance.

7. Get jealous

A confident woman does not feel threatened by the success of others. She is genuinely happy for another's achievements and takes joy in other people's gifts and talents.

8. Take things personally

Truly confident women are not easily offended. They do not analyze every careless remark made to them, automatically assuming the worst. Unkind words and insults simply do not stick to them.

9. Gossip

Confident women have better things to talk about than other people. Their topics of conversation are interesting and thought-provoking. These ladies do not need to speak poorly of others in order to feel better about themselves.

10. Lower her standards

A truly confident woman never lowers her standards for anyone. She does not seek approval from her peers. She seeks to do what is right.

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