September 28, 2018

Where We Go When We Need to Leave the House

September 28, 2018/ RACHEL CHOY

I firmly believe your home should be a sanctuary for your family. It should feel safe and full of love at all times. But, let’s be real. As much as I love my house, there are times I have to get out of it. I’m sure my fellow working moms understand this feeling. You cannot just go to work and go home each day. You must find ways to see the rest of the world!

That’s why as the temperatures cool and before the frigid winter weather arrives, I like to take advantage of the many outdoor options in New York City. There are so many great things for kids to do in NYC – and many of them are outdoors. A simple outdoor excursion is all we need to feel refreshed. Plus, a little Vitamin D is healthy for everyone!

If you are a fellow NYC working mom or just visiting New York for a trip with kids, here are some of my family’s favorite outdoor places in NY.

Explore Central Park

Of course, I have to include Central Park on my list of favorites! Not only is it one of the country’s most iconic parks, but it is also a great place for families in NYC! Central Park has tons of places to explore. For example, it has over fifty monuments, sculptures, and fountains. You can plan an entire scavenger hunt just for those structures. Add in bridges and wildlife, and the park feels magical.

Plus, Central Park is home to 21 playgrounds! My girls have some they love more than others, so I encourage to explore the park’s various playgrounds to find the ones that your kids like the most.

Check out the views at Hunters Point

Hunter’s Point Park is a newer park located in Long Island City. We love visiting this park because it offers amazing views of the NYC skyline. Plus, since it is a waterfront park, it also offers scenic waterfront views. It also has playgrounds that my girls love.

Take in the Scenery at Prospect Park

Prospect Park is a super family-friendly and beautiful park with playgrounds and more. It is home to one of NYC’s enchanting carousels, as well as a zoo with real-life animals. Prospect Park also has a skating rink in the winter, a children’s garden, and free kids programming at the Audubon Center.

Spend Time with the Animals at NYC Zoos

Both Central Park and Prospect Park have zoos that are open to the public. My girls love visiting zoos and seeing the animals up close. It is one of my family’s favorite ways to spend an afternoon. Plus, the fall is a great time to visit the zoo because the animals are more active than other seasons of the year.

And if the weather doesn’t cooperate…

If we need to get out of the house and it is raining or snowing, we just head to one of the nearest indoor play areas. My girls think Chuck E Cheese is the most fun place ever. I can put up with the noise and excitement because I know it makes them happy – and sleepy. Time Out also has a guide to other great ideas for indoor NYC play spaces if you are looking for somewhere new.

September 17, 2018

Why I Don’t Feel Guilty for Prioritizing Me Time

September 17, 2018/ RACHEL CHOY

Mom friends, let’s be honest. Prioritizing me time, as a mom, feels wrong sometimes. We don’t talk about it, but we all want it. But, so often we are made to feel like it is wrong to want “me time.” I’m here to say, “No more!”

My life is busy – super busy. On top of taking care of my adorable daughters, I work full time. My days are crammed back, and it sometimes feels like I have no time left in the day to check everything off my to-do list – let alone anything just for me.

But, I have learned the importance of self-care, and I am here today to tell you why you need to start prioritizing me time as well.

Why I Put Myself First

You know the saying, “If momma isn’t happy, nobody’s happy”? As moms, we know this is true! Moms are typically the ones who hold things together in their homes and family lives. When we are tired or upset, it changes the atmosphere in our homes. And, this busy working mom is the most ill when I am tired and have not taken time for myself.

I love my daughters. They are my greatest joy! But, even though I adore everything about them, sometimes I just need some time away from them. I need time to be myself – and not just “mom.” And, when I do take time for myself, I feel refreshed and renewed, and I can go back to being the energetic, loving mom that I usually am.

Think of it this way – the safety message on an airplane always tells you to put the oxygen mask on yourself first. The same thing is true for parenting. Before you can take care of your kids, you must take care of yourself.

Take a Few Minutes Every Day

So how do I manage to squeeze in some me time when my life is so busy between work, family, and other commitments? I get it done by taking a few minutes to myself every day. Self-care does not have to be a full spa day (although that would be amazing!). Daily self-care can just be a few minutes you take to yourself to do something just for you that brings you joy.

Other Ways I Practice Self-Care as a Busy Working Mom

To give you some ideas to get started, here are some things I do that are just for me:

Start my day quietly with a cup of coffee.

Mornings are not my favorite, but Dunkin Donuts coffee makes me like them a little bit more. Starting the day by having a nice cup of coffee helps me get ready to face whatever lies ahead.

Spend time outdoors.

I like to sit in Central Park before I go to work. This gives me a few minutes of quiet between the rush of getting the girls ready for school and before I head into work mode.

Get a massage.

When I am feeling stressed or tense, I love to get a massage. I’ve found that even a short thirty-minute massage does wonders when it comes to making me feel more relaxed and like myself again.

Connect with friends.

It takes effort to keep up with your friendships after you have kids – especially when you are juggling a career. But, friendships are so important! Friends remind you of who you were before kids, and the time you spend with them is often the best therapy in the world.

Drink a glass of wine.

I look forward to ending my day with a nice glass of wine to take the edge off. For me, it signifies the end of the daily rush and the start of the relaxation.

Exercise.

As the Elle Woods says in the classic Legally Blonde, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” Add in Premiere Protein and I am good to go.

Pursue my hobbies.

It is easy to push your previous hobbies to the side when your life gets busy after having kids, but it is more important than ever before to do what you love. I love fashion, so I continue to pursue it in my everyday life.

Unplug.

I love my cell phone just as much as the next mom, but I have found sometimes the best self-care involves simply unplugging for a bit and having a conversation face-to-face.

When I Look Good, I Feel Good

Finally, I do not feel guilty about prioritizing myself, especially when it comes to my appearance. I’m not saying you have to look your absolute best every day – that’d be crazy! But, for me, when I look good, I feel good. So, I am intentional about the amount of time I need to get ready each day and what I will wear.

What are some things you do to practice self-care?

September 12, 2018

Staying Healthy and Happy with Zarbee’s Naturals Honey Cough Soothers + Immune Support*

September 12, 2018/ RACHEL CHOY

This post is sponsored by Zarbee's Naturals. The content and opinions expressed here are that of Inrachelshoes.

As the school year begins, I like to have everything we need to stay healthy on hand. But, with young kids, I have to make important decisions about what products we use to feel our best. I want to give my girls the very best – especially when it comes to things that go into their little bodies.

That’s the main reason why I love Zarbee’s Naturals. Zarbee’s Naturals handpicks its carefully-sourced, wholesome ingredients, ensuring only the best for my family. Knowing it was founded by a pediatrician, Zarbee’s Naturals offers products for the whole family to enjoy, that you can trust without all the extra additives or artificial flavors.

Taking Care of Mom First

As all moms know, you have to take care of yourself in order to take care of your little ones, so I am always looking for something I can use to take care of myself. Zarbee’s Naturals 96% Honey Cough Soothers stand out because they can be used as needed since they are made with simple, wholesome ingredients to soothe coughs associated with hoarseness, dry throat, and irritants*. Even better, these Honey Cough Soothers also help support your immune system with key ingredients like Vitamin C, Zinc and Echinacea. Since I had some of the Zarbee’s Naturals 96% Honey Cough Soothers + Immune Support* on hand, I tried one and was delighted by the taste and the way it helped soothe my throat.

Taking Care of My Kids

It is so frustrating for a mom when your kids are not feeling their best, and they are not willing to take anything that will help them. But, with these in my purse, I was hopeful I would be able to get one past my daughter’s locked lips. Fortunately, the product is designed with kids in mind and is delicious mixed berry flavor. My daughter didn’t fight me when it came to trying one of the purple soothers.

This is especially great news for parents of picky kids. It is a relief to have a kid-safe product when they have dry throats or an irritating tickle. I fully intend to keep them in my purse for quick access year-round.

Why I Am Recommending This Product

As a working mom, it is critical that I stay healthy. I have to stay on top of things at my job and at home. And, when I take care of myself, my daughters notice. I want to teach them to take care of themselves as well. That’s why I love how Zarbee’s Naturals has designed wholesome products for both parents and children. When my daughters see me use a Cough Soother when I sound hoarse, they’ll hopefully be more willing to ask for one when they need it.

Keep Zarbee’s Natural 96% Honey Cough Soothers on hand to help keep your family healthy and happy all school year long. I encourage my followers to add Zarbee’s Naturals to their bag this year.

September 09, 2018

Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet – From a Mom Who Knows

September 09, 2018/ RACHEL CHOY

Eek! I recently learned Olivia has flat feet! I know I am not the only mom dealing with this issue as it is actually pretty common in kids. If your kid is one of the 44% of a 3-to-6-year old child with flat feet, then rest assured you are not alone.

Fortunately, for most children, the problem corrects itself as children grow. However, if the problem is not addressed, it can lead to more serious problems in the future. As a mom, I want to be sure I am doing all I can to make sure my daughter starts off on the right foot (sorry – I couldn’t resist a foot pun!).

So, I have done my homework to find out all I need to know about flat feet (or pes planus – a flattening of the arches) and how to treat it.

What Causes Flat Feet in Kids

According to the Mayo Clinic, “A flat foot is normal in infants and toddlers, because the foot's arch hasn't yet developed. Most people's arches develop throughout childhood, but some people never develop arches.”

While the condition is common, the problems occur when little ones never develop arches. In these cases, children may experience pain, improper walking, and poor foot development. Ouch! Not at all things I want my sweet daughter to have to face.

Do’s and Don’ts for Kids with Flat Feet

Thankfully, most kids with flat feet do not need to have anything extreme done to help them overcome this issue. However, there are few simple do’s and don’ts we can try as parents.

Do speak to your pediatrician. A pediatrician will be able to evaluate your child and make recommendations.
Do take your pediatrician’s advice, such as pursuing physical therapy.
Do have your child wear inserts (especially your doctor recommends a custom orthotic device).
Do teach your child to rest and stretch.
Do temporarily modify your child’ activities, so he/she isn’t standing or walking for long periods of time if your child is experiencing pain as a result of pain feet.
Do invest in supportive footwear. (I’m listing the best brands of supportive footwear below!)
Don’t wear shoes without support.
Don’t wear shoes without an arc (such as Converse or Vans).
Don’t try to save money by buying lower quality shoes.
Don’t buy shoes without having your child try them on. If your child is wearing a shoe that does not fit, it will only make the problem worse.

7 Shoe Brands to Invest in for Kids with Flat Feet

When it comes to giving your kid the best shot at living with flat feet, the best thing you can do is invest in great, supportive footwear. It will be worth it in the end! To give you some ideas, I have identified the seven best shoe brands for kids with flat feet.

Asics – They offer a great selection of supportive and colorful sneakers for toddlers on up.

Saucony – Their kid’s athletic shoe line begins with baby sizes and are all designed to offer support.

New Balance – They are known for their supportive athletic shoes for adults, but their shoes are also great for toddlers and preschoolers with flat feet.

Robeez – This brand is recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) because their shoes are designed to help healthy foot development.

Stride Rite – They make high-quality children’s shoes designed to encourage healthy movement for babies up to big kids.

Crocs – Kids love crocs, and their arch design and ability to contour to the shape of the foot make them stand out.

Salt Water Sandals – If you are looking for sandals for your child with flat feet, I recommend Salt Water sandals. These high-quality sandals are made of genuine leather and come in a variety of colors.

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September 06, 2018

7 Fall 2018 Shoe Trends I Love

September 06, 2018/ RACHEL CHOY

Labor Day is over, which for fashionistas across the New York and the rest of the country, means it is time to get a new fall wardrobe! As a major shoe lover, I am so excited to have an excuse to shop the latest trends and reinvent my fall shoe collection.

And, fall of 2018 promises to be an exciting year. While I am already ready to sip my pumpkin-spice latte and bury my face in a scarf, I am most excited about the trends that are showing up in fashion! This year’s trends have a dose of nostalgia and freshness. We’re bringing back some old favorites, but we’re updating them to reflect today’s styles. I love it!

To help you prepare to be one of the most stylish moms in NYC, I’ve highlighted what are sure to be the biggest shoe trends of 2018 as well as showcasing some of my personal favorites. Even better – you can shop my post to order your favorites with the just click of the mouse.

Slouchy Boots Pack a Statement

Fall means boots – and this year brings back the blocked heel boots that we all love. To add in a punch, slouchy boots are stylish and sophisticated – and they are anything but slouchy! This style is versatile and can go from day to night easily. My picks:

Marc Fisher LTD Unana Bootie

Tory Burch Brooke Slouchy Knee-High Boot

Western Boots are Not Going Out of Style

We all know that Western boots are never going to disappear, but they do come and go in the fashion scene. This year’s spin on western boots includes simple designs with lower heels. You should expect to find sleeker styles with less pointy toes. My picks:

Saint Laurent Western Leather Ankle Boots

Chloe Annika Split Shaft Western Boot

Dad Sneakers are Back

Yes – you read that right. Dad sneakers have hit the runways, so be on the lookout for this modern take on thick-soled sneakers. These retro designs are a fun throwback to the past, and like past dad sneakers, they are either colorful or plain. It’s the sole and silhouette that matters. PS. Moms can pull these off! My picks:

Balenciaga Triple S Retro Sneaker

Jeffrey Campbell WiFi Sneaker

Animal Prints are Fierce

Animal prints are back, and they are fierce! As most savvy fashionistas know, a great animal print shoe is a great way to pack a statement. Trust me – every mom needs a shoe that represents her wild side. My picks:

Linea Paolo Posh II Pointy Toe Pump

Christian Louboutin Moulamax Genuine Calf Hair Bootie

Combat Boots are All the Rage

You don’t have to be a rock star to rock a pair of combat boots. This year’s styles are similar to the styles we remember from our younger years. But, now we know how to wear them in a trendy, stylish way. My picks:

Fiveseventyfive Stud-Embellished Leather Combat Boots

Valentino Garavani Lock Leather Combat Ankle Boots

Shoes that Sparkle

As a girl who loves to sparkle, I am thrilled with all the glitter and jeweled shoes hitting the scene in 2018! Everything from pumps to sneakers is getting the royal jeweled treatment. My picks:

Walter De Silva Women's Raff Glitter Pumps

Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Jewel Pump

Gucci Flashtrek Jewel Sneaker at Nordstrom

Brown is the New Black

This summer, we saw tons of women embraced more tans with boho fashion, and that trend will not end now that fall has arrived. Make sure you have a great pair of brown shoes in your fall wardrobe to balance out all the black.

Gianvito Rossi Martis Leather Combat Boots

Birkenstock Boston Suede & Shearling Clogs

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