Amanda Alvarado

Do you have a loved one headed to basic military training? Here's a few tips I have!

I've got a couple military members in my family, both active and retired, but when my brother left for basic military training, it was so hard. When he left, I was so proud and so sad at the same time. I did so much research and reached out to so many people to find out how I could best support him while he was away.

Our military and their families make such a sacrifice. Basic military training is really hard part and you'll find yourself feeling so proud and so sad at the same time. It is kind of crazy, but one of the most important things you can do is support your loved one while they are away. Supporting a loved one during BMT is so important and so appreciated.

Write letters, but keep them plain.

Write letters. Seriously, your loved one will enjoy hearing from you, but keep these plain. Write them on notebook paper in plan ink or pencil. Don't add stickers or color. Don't spray perfume on the letter. Keep it simple.

Keep them up to date on what's happening.

Talk about their favorite celebrity and sports team. Tell them about that joke your coworker told you. Let them know how family dinner went the other day. While in basic training, they are secluded from the world, so just talk to them about what's happening at home. Keep it fun and light!

When you visit them for graduation, plan time for rest.

Graduation is great. You finally get to see your loved one after weeks of little communication. While you'll be excited to see them and probably have some fun things planned, also plan time for rest. Your loved one has been going nonstop for weeks and they will probably really just want to take a nap and relax for some of the time you're there with them. Have fun and do make some fun plans, but also agree to some downtime.

Remind them that they have your support.

It will be hard not be emotional. I cried the entire day after I hugged my brother goodbye, but when you write and on the rare occasion that they can call, be strong for them. They are the ones away from everything they know, so remind them that they have all your support and that you're proud of them.

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You probably won't get a letter back each time you write, but don't be upset

BMT is no joke and your loved one is going to have nearly every moment scheduled with something. If you write multiple letters and don't get a letter back for each one, don't be upset. Your loved one will write you when they can. Just keep encouraging them!

AF Wing Moms is a great resource for anyone with a loved one at BMT. They've got all kinds of information about what to expect during BMT and what to expect after. They offer so much support and important information.

My fellow military families, my heart is with you all.

xx,

Amanda

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I've been in a relationship for 7 years and let's be honest... it takes work and sometimes that means finding ways to reconnect with your partner.

When we have been in a relationship for a long time with the same person, our routines will often become a little stale and this is where we start to get bored of one another which can sometimes be an issue. We go about our day like it is "business as usual" and I know that I am guilty of not taking David for granted. When you're in a relationship, sometimes we lost our connection. There is no

Dancing

Dancing lessons might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of date night, but dancing can be incredibly romantic and it will help you be more in touch with your other half. Also, dancing is fun! Arthur Murray offers dancing classes and you’ll be able to dance the night away without two left feet!

Explore your city

How many of us have lived in the same place for our whole lives and still know nothing about it? When you have lived in the same city for a long time it is hard to imagine being anywhere else, but you can also take your home town for granted. This weekend set a day to walk around your local city and simply explore places you have never seen. You could come into contact with lots of new places and it will be super fun.

See a show

If you are sick and tired of sitting on the sofa binging Netflix all the time, it might be time to think of something with a little more culture. Shows are always going on in your local theaters and they are often amazing and wonderful to behold. Take the opportunity to head to the box office at the weekend and see a random show. These are always so much fun!

Go for a picnic

If the sun is shining and the weather is warm, it is the perfect excuse for you to head out into nature and go for a little picnic together. A picnic can be simple as some sandwiches and snacks or you can go the whole works with salads and pasta, and it will allow you to find a sunny spot in a local park and enjoy the day. Summer is here and picnics are totally still so much fun!

Be alone together

Sometimes, staying in and just being alone is a really great to reconnect. Maybe that means a themed dinner and a movie, building a fort like kids again, or relaxing in a hot tub. Being alone together at home is a great way to reconnect and enjoy your other half in every way.

Try something new this weekend with your partner and rekindle the romance and wonder which was there at the start of your journey together this year!

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Today, there is no such thing as a secure job, and most of us decide to change our course of career at one point.

No matter if you have studied for two years to get the qualification you have or seven, it is never too late to change your mind. Millennials are searching for a calling, not just a job, and many of them think long and hard about starting a business. Chances are that you are at a crossroads and would like to find out how you can improve your life by finding a more fulfilling career. Below you will find a few tips on how to decide whether or not you are ready to go back to college and follow your true calling.

Your Financial Situation No matter if you would like to take time off work or just go back to college part time, it will be challenging. You will have to fund your education, and might want to avoid getting into debt. However, investing in your skills and education has the potential of giving you a great return, if you choose to go down this route. Create a pro and con list, and you will be closer to making an informed decision.

Family Support No matter how determined you are to complete the college course, you will need to have the right support available from your family. There are plenty of things to consider that can affect your chances of finishing your course. For example, if you have kids, you might want to ask your family members to help out. If you are running a business or working full time, it will be challenging to manage your time. Career Opportunities Before you choose your course, you will also have to consider what opportunities are there for you, and whether they fit your long term goals. As an example, if you would like to learn about the music industry, you will have to familiarize yourself with recording devices so you can provide the best service to your future employer. Find out about the different career opportunities before you invest in your education.

Business Opportunities Chances are that you might be considering starting your own business instead of working for someone. Maybe you will complete your apprenticeship program and then set up your own company. Study the market, find out how competitive it is, and how you can break into it. Without a detailed business plan and a solid market knowledge, you will not make it.

Earning PotentialIf you would like to increase your earning potential, you will need to make the most out of your skills training and choose the right course that will help you establish yourself as an in-demand expert. Engaging with a career or a business coach will help you see clearer about your opportunities after college.

If you want to improve your career, or start a business, chances are that you will need to pursue new educational opportunities.

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If you are currently considering where your next holiday is going to be, Mexico is definitely worth putting on your list. Read on to discover the different reasons why.

There is so much history to explore - A lot of people are shocked to discover the sheer number of amazing historical sites that you can explore while you are in Mexico. Of course, you have the famous Chichen Itza. However, there are plenty of other amazing sites too, including the circular pyramids of Guachimontones in Jalisco, as well as Teotihuacan. Plus, if you are a history buff, you should definitely take a trip to the Museo Nacional de Antropologia.

The beaches are some of the best in the world - Another reason why you should consider taking a trip to Mexico is because the beaches are incredible. Not only can you enjoy spending your days relaxing in the sunshine, but you can also try your hands at cenote diving in Mexico too. There are lots of great sports activities to enjoy, including swimming with dolphins.

It is home to some truly unique animals - Aside from this, another reason why Mexico is a great destination option is because it is place that is breathtakingly biodiverse. There are some animals that you can pretty much only find in the waters, jungles, and forests of this North American country. You could spot a cacomistle, which is a native Mexican mammal, or a critically endangered axolotl.

The people are friendly and welcoming - It is always better to go on holiday when the local people are friendly and warm. This is something that you can definitely expect when you take a trip to Mexico. Everyone is willing to help you, no matter whether you are wondering where to eat or you need some directions.

The music scene is something else - If you go clubbing while you are in Mexico, you can expect them to play all of the songs that you would hear in the charts. However, you should not overlook the country’s traditional music scene, which is diverse and exciting. It is definitely worth seeing a live Mexican band or one of the mariachi groups.

The cuisine is delicious and varied - Last but not least, we cannot talk about Mexico without mentioning the food that is on offer. Mexico is certainly a place of amazing food. However, it is not just about nachos and tacos. The culinary scene varies greatly depending on where in Mexico you are visiting, for example, in the Yucatan Peninsula you can expect Mayan delicacies, whereas in Sinaloa, on the Pacific coast, the seafood is to die for.

As you can see, there are many different reasons why you should consider Mexico when you are booking your next holiday. I’m really wanting to visit Guadalajara and the surrounding area because that is where my family is from! I’m also dying to go to Playa Del Carmen! I hear it’s beautiful!

xx,
Amanda

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One of the best things about not being in school anymore is that I actually have time to read!

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I really loved reading as a kid. Seriously, loved it, but as assigned reading got more lengthy and the amount of homework and studying I had to do grew, I found it hard to read for fun. Once I got a job and started being really involved, that free time for reading kind of went out the door. When I graduated college, I decided that I was finally going to start reading again and it has been one of the best decisions I've made.

I've been reading a lot of personal development books lately. David and I are reading two different books about marriage right now. Once we're finished, we'll swap.. and no, we aren't married or engaged, but we've been dating for almost eight years, so the time is coming sooner rather than later. I read Girl, Wash Your Face,Crushing It, and Body Love and absolutely loved these books. I asked for a ton of books for Christmas and recently ordered some more. Honestly, I've got quite a long reading list to get through and I'm not buying anymore books until I've put a good dent in the ones I already have.

This summer, I'm really wanting to get through three books. There are three books I'm reading this summer that I want to share with you! You might want to add these to your summer reading list. Actually... should we start a book club?

Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis

Rachel Hollis is a lady who I am just loving right now. In this book, she sounds a wake-up call. She knows that many women have been taught to define themselves in light of other people instead of learning how to own who they are and what they want. With a challenge to women everywhere to stop talking themselves out of their dreams, Hollis identifies the excuses to let go of, the behaviors to adopt, and the skills to acquire on the path to growth, confidence, and believing in yourself. Doesn't this sound amazing?

Tools Of Titans by Tim Ferriss

This book contains all of the tools that world-class performers have used in their own lives. I love learning morning routines and the ways of some of the highest-performers, so this book is just the thing. Ferris says,“I created this book, my ultimate notebook of high-leverage tools, for myself. It’s changed my life, and I hope the same for you.”

Own Your Everyday by Jordan Lee Dooley

I found Jordan Lee Dooley about a year ago and love her so, so much! I pre-ordered this book because I was just so excited about it. This book talks about tackling obstacles life throws at us, removing labels and breaking out of the box of expectations, identifying and eliminating excuses and unnecessary stress about an unknown future, and overcoming the lie that you can't live your God-given purpose until you overcome a certain goal or milestone. Dooley helps you shift your mindset, overcome shame, practice gratitude, and redefine success!

Now that I've shared my reading list, share yours! What is a book you are looking forward to reading over the summer?

xx,

Amanda

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I've never been to London, but my boyfriend, David went a couple years ago and he promises that he'll take me one day.

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Because he's promised me that he'll take me one day, I love to research and stay up-to-date on what's happening in London. There is so much to do and if you're doing your own research, here's what I've found out!

London is a beautiful city that’s full of life twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. It’s one of the most popular tourist spots on earth, and if you find yourself booking a trip, then there are some iconic places that you must have on your to-do list while you’re there.

The Shard

For a truly breathtaking, 360° view of the capital, The Shard has become one of the most popular spots to spend the day taking in the sights. Built in 2012, this 95-story skyscraper stands tall across the city’s skyline and is home to many offices, restaurants and hotel rooms. The Shard’s viewing point is over three floors, 68, 69 and 72 and costs £24 (about $31) for a standard ticket and is slightly more if purchased on the day. It’s both a sight to behold whether you go on the day or in the evening. However, be sure to check the weather before booking. Obviously, when booking in advance, it’s hard to predict the weather so they do have a guarantee that if you can’t see a certain number of landmarks, they’ll allow you to revisit for free on another day.

Buckingham Palace

Everyone visiting London is hoping they can spot a royal and one place that increases your chances is by heading over to Buckingham Palace. It’s a magnificent building to look at which sits at the bottom of the mall, just off Trafalgar Square. And although it’s unlikely you’ll get to see the Queen, you can experience the changing of the guards which happens at 10:45am. It’s quite the experience to see, and it only takes around 30 minutes, so it’s a great stop-off point, while en route to somewhere else. You can also have the opportunity to visit the inside of Buckingham Palace, which opens to the public over summer. Feast your eyes on the lavishly decorated staterooms and know that you’re seeing one of the few working palaces in the world.

Kew Gardens

There are some amazing photographers in London, and some of those photographers flock to Kew Gardens to get up and personal with nature. These botanical gardens attract many tourists and so much can be seen from Victorian glasshouses to discovering the science and conservation work that they’re currently doing. With over 50,000 living plants on display, you could easily spend the whole day at Kew Gardens. Including exhibitions, talks, and tours, the cost of getting in is just £16.50 (about $20) for a standard adult and £4.50 (about $6) for children. Definitely worth taking advantage of if you’re in London for a while!

Piccadilly Circus

So it might not quite be as extravagant as Times Square in New York, but the iconic screens still light up this road junction in the most exciting way. It’s a popular spot to take a tourist snap, and there’s plenty of restaurants, bars and theaters nearby. Just up the road from Piccadilly Circus is Regent Street where all the designer shops are. Another feature of the junction is the statue of Eros, a popular meeting spot when meeting up with friends or your traveling party. Unveiled in 1893, the statue wasn’t loved as much as it is now, with many at the time thinking it was ugly and rather vulgar in its sensual appearance.

Borough Market

Borough Market is a typical example of food and street markets that you find on a smaller scale across the country. It’s a market that is the source of British and international produce and it’s a fantastic experience for anyone that’s local or new to the area. It’s one of the largest and oldest markets in London and has a variety of food to taste and buy. There’s very much something from every cuisine, and the atmosphere is pretty incredible for anyone that’s never been before. Obviously, it’s free to enter and certainly worth stopping on buy to buy your lunch or food to take back to wherever you’re staying.

There’s also plenty of events that happen within the market as well as live music from local bands and buskers.

When staying in London, there’s plenty of sights to take in during your stay. The typical tourist spots like Big Ben and Oxford Circus are a must-see, but all of the above should be explored too. Kew Gardens is great all year round but especially during the summer when the sunshine is out. Take a trip up to The Shard and don’t forget to stop off at Buckingham Palace for a selfie!

xx,

Amanda

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