Preparing Your Children for University or College

Having recently gone through the process of preparing a child for university out of province, we were reflecting on how much was involved, and what tools were most helpful for getting it all done.

Most universities offer in-depth guidelines for students moving into residence, and their parents who are helping them prepare. They provide things like moving lists, residence room layouts and dimensions, photos and videos. We relied heavily on the Dalhousie Residence site.

We knew it was important to get a hold of as much of the bedding and kitchenware items as we could ahead of time, since the few days at the beginning of school would be such a madhouse in the stores around campus.

We took advantage of stores like Bed, Bath & Beyond, who will ship right to a university residence or a local store so items are there when the student arrives.

If your child is travelling a farther distance, you definitely have to be more organized, even thinking as far ahead as the winter months. Do you pack their winter clothes? Ship them later? Will they be home for a visit in between?

Undergarment essentials include lots of socks and underwear (Hanky Panky for the girls, Saxx for the guys) so they don’t have to do as much laundry. Also be sure girls have enough sports bras to stay active and avoid the “freshman 15.”

What are your best tips for having a child away at university or college?

7 Cooling Tips for the Dog Days of August

Now that things are finally warming up here in Barrie, Ontario, we wanted to offer some ideas for when the heat starts to get unbearable.

1. Ceiling fans can be effective at cooling your house, but note that other types of fans may just re-circulate the hot air (learn more in this article at Berkeley Wellness).
2. Closing your blinds during the day and opening your windows at night can be a very efficient way of cooling your house. See more money-saving cooling tips in this article from the Money Mini blog.
3. A cool bath before bed – or anytime – can be a refreshing way to lower your body temperature. For your bedding, special breathable fabrics are available that keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
4. Choose clothing made of similar fabrics that can keep you cool all day long by protecting you from the sun’s rays and wicking away moisture. Speaking of sweat, be sure to wash your bras even more regularly in the summer to help them last longer.
5. To cool your body from the inside out, stay hydrated with water and other non-alcoholic beverages. To make water a little more exciting, try adding fruits and vegetables such as cucumber, lemon, mint and strawberries. These also work to drain your lymphatic system and help with circulation.
6. For a cool, fresh and natural dessert or snack, try frozen fruit. Cut up fruit into bite size pieces and freeze in a single layer on a lined baking sheet (approximately one hour), then store until it’s time to eat. Try frozen bananas, berries, kiwi, mangos, oranges, pineapple, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, or grapes.
7. As you’re sitting to work, relax, or enjoy your refreshing drink or snack, place a cool cloth or frozen bag against the back of your neck.

The summer is short, so enjoy it by keeping yourself cool and comfortable.

Lingerie Tips for Bridesmaids and Mothers of the Bride

While bridal dresses may have a built-in corset, bridesmaids and mothers of the bride usually need to take care of that foundation separately.

After all, you’re going to be in many of the wedding photos, and also want to make the best impression in those important mementos. With the investment you’ve already made on the dress, shoes, hair, accessories and more, don’t neglect the essential ingredient of an attractive and comfortable wedding day outfit.

Without proper-fitting lingerie, mothers of the bride and bridesmaids may not feel or look your best, constantly adjusting or pulling at straps or waistlines, instead of focusing on the precious occasion.

Depending on your outfit, bridesmaids and mothers of the bride may need:

• Strapless bra
• Halter bra - if the front of your dress comes down lower, you can try a transferable bra that can either go across the back or be worn like a regular bra
• Control wear for nice smooth lines

Tips for buying lingerie for a special occasion:

• Plan ahead and shop early (some items and sizes may need to be special ordered)
• Bring the dress or a photo of you wearing the dress
• Have a professional fitting - you'll be amazed the difference it makes and once you have a proper fitting bra you'll want to wear it every day