MANAGING PERIMENOPAUSE & MENOPAUSE - THE MENOPAUSE SUPPORT TRIO

When I first started this blog, my kids were little, and I was still relatively young. Since then, many years have passed and I have been through a few health challenges and thankfully, overcome them.

But here I am now, 20 years older and smack in the middle of menopause and if you are there too, you know it is absolutely no fun whatsoever. You know the one foot hanging off the bed, with the bed sheets coming on and off of you intermittently because your body can't decide if it's hot or cold! I guess any women with hormonal imbalance can relate to this. Sure, you don't have your period anymore and that is amazing but my goodness, the crap you have to go through physically just to reach that point is way too much!

Some of you reading this may be in perimenopause. Maybe you are still on the younger side or dealing with postpartum, PCOS or hormonal imbalance issues. Truth is, all women face the challenge of simply being a woman. And by that, I mean, the hormone fluctuations, mood swings, cravings, occasional bloating and so on. It just gets better or worse depending on what stage of life you are in. Learning to navigate in the adult female body and all of its challenges is not for the weak.

For now, and for the purpose of this article, I will focus on menopause and a protocol of holistic health products I have come across that help to manage all the wacky symptoms, like hot flashes, night sweats, sleep issues, weight gain, "squirrel brain," irritability and so much more that comes with the "joy" of perimenopause and menopause. 

If you are not at this stage of life yet, let me give you a little summary:

Common Symptoms (Perimenopause & Menopause)

Menstrual Changes: Lighter/heavier periods, skipped periods, irregular cycles.
Vasomotor Symptoms: Hot flashes (sudden heat, flushing, sweating) and night sweats.
Sleep Problems: Insomnia, difficulty falling/staying asleep.
Mood Changes: Irritability, anxiety, depression, mood swings.
Cognitive Issues: Brain fog, trouble concentrating, memory lapses.
Sexual Health: Vaginal dryness, painful sex, decreased libido, changes in arousal.
Physical Changes: Dry skin, brittle nails, hair loss, weight gain (especially abdominal), joint/muscle aches, fatigue, heart palpitations.
Urinary Issues: Frequent urination, urgency, UTIs. 

Key Differences & When They Start

Perimenopause: 

The transition period leading to menopause, often starting in your 40s (or even 30s), marked by hormonal fluctuation and often irregular periods as the first sign. 

Menopause: 

Officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period; symptoms often continue or intensify." 

Menopause can shift energy, metabolism, digestion, and overall balance. That is why this trio is extremely helpful in managing the symptoms in a natural way.

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This is the Menopause Support Trio:

1️⃣ S-Balance 

Key Support Areas:

• Healthy blood sugar

• Metabolism

• Cravings

• Hormonal balance support

Why it’s ideal for menopause:
Blood sugar and metabolism often fluctuate during menopause. S-Balance includes cinnamon bark, alpha lipoic acid, fenugreek, cranberry, and berberine — all included to help support healthy metabolism and balanced energy.

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2️⃣ Organex or Tea Detox

Key Support Areas:     

• Liver wellness

• Bloating

• Gentle detox pathways

• Digestion

Why this matters in menopause:
The liver plays a major role in processing hormones.

• Organex includes ingredients like boldo, milk thistle, artichoke, and chicory to help support liver and digestive wellness.

• Tea Detox includes ginger, chamomile, persimmon leaf, mallow leaf, and prickly pear to support digestive comfort, bloating relief, and gentle cleansing.

Choose the one that fits the woman’s primary concern:
👉 Liver/detox focus? Organex
👉 Bloat/digestion focus? Tea Detox

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3️⃣ Glutation or Glutation Plus

Key Support Areas:                                

• Antioxidant support

• Cellular wellness

• Immune support

• Detox pathways

Why it helps in menopause:
Glutathione, vitamin C, L-cysteine, and curcuminoids help support the body’s natural antioxidant defense and cellular repair — helpful during periods of increased oxidative stress.

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⭐ Why This Trio Works So Well for Menopausal Support

✔ Supports metabolism & energy balance
✔ Encourages digestive comfort & gentle detox
✔ Helps maintain antioxidant + immune support
✔ Aligns with the organ systems most impacted during menopause
✔ Provides whole-body support without medical claims

This is a supportive, nourishing, well-rounded wellness trio for women navigating midlife changes.

No matter how you choose to deal with your menopause symptoms and the challenges you may face, you don't have to explain yourself to anyone, you just have to learn that the key is to fall in love with healing yourself! And that starts with giving your body the very best: mind, body & soul.

Disclaimer

These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information provided is for educational and wellness-support purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially during menopause or if you have underlying health conditions.  

This article contains affiliate links. 

RAISING STRONG, CONFIDENT KIDS

 Raising Strong, Confident Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Building Lifelong Resilience

Image via Pexels

Parenting in the modern world feels like walking a tightrope — balancing nurture and independence, love and limits, safety and courage. Every parent wants their child to grow resilient, capable, and grounded. But those qualities aren’t innate; they’re built daily through structure, curiosity, and a bit of failure.

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TL;DR

To raise resilient and independent kids:

• Let them experience natural consequences — safely.
  
  

• Praise effort and process, not just results.
  
  

• Give them real-world problems to solve.
  
  

• Encourage creativity, not perfection.
  
  

• Support curiosity with the right tools and time.
  
  

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The Foundations of Lifelong Strength

Resilience isn’t just about “toughing it out.” It’s the art of adapting — mentally and emotionally — when life doesn’t go as planned.
Here’s how different traits reinforce each other:

Core Trait	What It Means	How to Nurture It
Resilience	Persevering through obstacles	Discuss what went wrong and what can improve
Independence	Taking initiative responsibly	Give them daily decision power (what to wear, when to do homework)
Positive Self-Image	Confidence rooted in self-worth	Encourage journaling with tools like Notion for Students to track wins
Empathy	Recognizing others’ feelings	Watch short stories or shows together and use guides from Common Sense Media to discuss characters’ choices
Responsibility	Owning one’s actions	Assign age-appropriate “family jobs” instead of “chores”

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The Everyday Resilience Checklist

• Replace “Be careful” with “I trust you.”

• Let them make small decisions — like planning a meal.

• Encourage mistakes as learning steps (“What would you try next time?”).

• Create space for calm reflection — maybe through Headspace for Kids.

• Schedule “unstructured time” to explore and invent.

• Model curiosity — read or build things together using LEGO Education Kits.

• End each day with one gratitude reflection (“What was your best moment today?”).

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Try–Fail–Grow Framework

• Try: Introduce new skills — baking, coding, gardening — where outcomes are uncertain.
  
  

• Fail: React to mistakes calmly. Kids mirror your tone more than your words.
  
  

• Grow: Discuss what they learned. Reflection deepens emotional intelligence.
  
  

Every “failure” is a mini-laboratory for confidence — especially when kids know their efforts matter more than perfection.

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Empowering Teens Through Entrepreneurship

When teens learn to build something of their own — even a micro-project — they gain ownership, resilience, and self-direction. Starting a small venture teaches them budgeting, creative thinking, and decision-making.

Tools like ZenBusiness can help your teen safely explore entrepreneurship: building a simple website, designing a logo, or learning how to register a small business. It’s not just about earning — it’s about discovering what responsibility and initiative feel like.

Encourage them to document their process with Canva Education or design project boards in Trello. These help turn ideas into structured, achievable actions — a cornerstone of independence.

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FAQ: Parents Ask, Experts Answer

Q: My child gives up easily. How do I help?
A: Focus on small wins. Praise persistence — “I love how you kept trying,” not “You’re so smart.”

Q: How much independence is healthy?
A: Start small. Let them choose clothes, manage an allowance, or plan weekend activities.

Q: My teen fears failure.
A: Normalize it. Share your own missteps. Discuss how even experienced coders at Code.org revise repeatedly.

Q: How do I boost self-esteem without overpraising?
A: Replace “You’re amazing!” with “That was thoughtful” or “You worked hard on that.” It grounds confidence in effort.

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Glossary

Resilience: Bouncing forward from setbacks.
Autonomy: The ability to act from personal judgment.
Growth Mindset: Belief that skills can improve with effort.
Self-Efficacy: Trust in one’s capability to achieve goals.
Intrinsic Motivation: Doing something because it feels rewarding.

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Strong children aren’t shielded from hardship; they’re guided through it. Give your kids room to try, to fail, to grow, and to lead. Every small decision, every conversation about “what went wrong,” builds the foundation for confidence that lasts a lifetime.

Raising resilient humans isn’t about perfection, it’s about patience, trust, and showing them, they already have everything they need inside to rise again.

(GUEST POST - Contains affiliate links)

TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

Every year in the United States we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week. Teacher Appreciation Week is always celebrated during the first full week of May.  And as the years have passed, it has become a bigger deal and, in my opinion, rightly so.  They deserve all the recognition possible. If it were up to me, teachers would be one of the highest paid professions.  

Personally, I have a special love and respect for teachers, as I believe, along with parents, they are an integral part of a child's development. A teacher can make a lasting impression on a child's life, whether it is Pre-K to high school and even into college.  

It takes a special kind of person to give up 7-8 hours of their day to deal with children that are not their own and make every effort to educate them and show them compassion, empathy and tolerance. There are those people who become teachers for a variety of reasons, like maybe for the summers off, or the health insurance, but I honestly believe that to remain a teacher, you have to have a heart full of unconditional love and a whole lot of patience! Teachers are one of the most necessary yet under-appreciated professions, in my opinion. This is why any chance I get, I welcome the opportunity to express gratitude for all the good teachers I had in my lifetime and for all the wonderful teachers my children had, as well as gratitude for all the teachers I know personally - thank you!

So, if you are a parent or guardian or simply want to express your gratitude for a teacher(s) - here are some gift ideas for them:

10 GIFT IDEAS FOR TEACHER APPRECIATION

 

1.Personalized Tote Bag - A sturdy tote bag with the teacher’s name or a motivational quote can be great for carrying books and supplies

2.Notebook or Journal or High-Quality Pens or Markers – A cute journal, planner or notebook is always useful, as well as a set of nice pens, markers, or colored pencils can brighten their day as they grade papers or create lesson plans.

3.**Gift Cards - Gift cards to a local fast-food restaurant, local coffee shops, Target, Walmart, local grocery store, bookstores, or office supply stores allow teachers to choose what they need most.

4.Desk Organizer - A stylish desk organizer can help keep their workspace tidy and efficient.

5.Personalized Notepad or Sticky Notes - Customized stationery is both practical and personal, making note-taking and reminders extra special.

6.Classroom Supplies Basket - Fill a basket (from Dollar General or similar store) with essential classroom supplies like dry-erase markers, sticky tack, or art supplies that teachers are always in need of.

7.Plants or Succulents - A small potted plant can brighten up their classroom or home and is easy to care for.

8.Coffee or Tea Gift Set - A curated selection of gourmet coffee or tea can provide a delightful pick-me-up during their busy days.

9.Inspirational Books - A book filled with inspiring quotes or teaching tips can motivate and encourage them in their profession.

10.Venmo or Zelle – even if this seems impersonal, I guarantee you a teacher will appreciate $5, 10, 20 dollars, rather than a picture frame or another coffee mug or gift that might not be as useful or meaningful.  Your $10 bucks might not seem like much but if others do the same, it adds up and will be greatly appreciated.

 

These gifts show appreciation while being practical for their day-to-day needs!" You can always make a collection of handwritten notes from students expressing gratitude and appreciation. This can be one of the most meaningful gifts they receive.  But remember, the key is to show them just how much you really appreciate them. 

** A gift card or cash with a little something personalized is always a great gift.

And a simple "thank you and show of gratitude to your child's teacher, teacher assistant or room coordinator is always appreciated.

SMART STRATEGIES FOR BUDGET-FRIENDLY HOME BUYING & MOVING AS A PARENT

MOVING AS A PARENT

Buying a home is already a daunting task, but doing it as a parent? That takes the challenge to a whole new level. Between balancing your budget, keeping your kids' needs in mind, and navigating the logistics of a big move, the process can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to break the bank to make it work. With the right approach, you can find an affordable home and move with as little stress—and cost—as possible. This is about being strategic, patient, and just a little bit scrappy.

Consider the Hidden Costs Before You Fall in Love

When you’re scrolling through listings, it’s easy to get swept away by a picture-perfect house that checks all your boxes. But as any seasoned homeowner will tell you, the sticker price isn’t the full story. Property taxes, homeowners association fees, utility costs, and potential repairs can all make what seemed like a deal into a financial headache. Before making an offer, get a clear breakdown of these expenses, and ask the seller for an average monthly utility bill. This extra step can save you from committing to a home that stretches your budget too thin.

Think Beyond the Hottest Neighborhoods

Every city has its “it” neighborhoods—the ones with the best schools, charming coffee shops, and picture-perfect parks. And while those areas may be great, they often come with price tags that match their desirability. Instead of focusing on the trendiest zip codes, look for up-and-coming areas with good school districts and growing communities. Often, you’ll find a hidden gem that’s more affordable now but set to appreciate in value over time. A local real estate agent who truly knows the area can be invaluable in this search.

Timing Can Make or Break Your Budget

If you have flexibility, the time of year you buy and move can have a huge impact on your budget. Spring and summer are peak moving seasons, which means prices for homes and moving services tend to spike. If you can, aim to buy in late fall or winter when demand is lower, and sellers may be more willing to negotiate. Likewise, moving companies often have lower rates during their off-season. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also avoid the chaos of peak moving months.

Get Creative with Your Down Payment

The traditional advice is to put down 20%, but let’s be real—not every family has that kind of cash lying around. Fortunately, there are other ways to make homeownership work. First-time homebuyer programs, FHA loans, and state grants can help you secure a mortgage with a lower down payment. And if you have family members willing to help, a down payment gift could be a game-changer. Just make sure you understand the fine print on any loan or gift so there are no surprises later.

Cut Costs on Moving Without Cutting Corners

Moving costs add up fast, but there are plenty of ways to trim the fat. Instead of hiring a full-service moving company, consider renting a truck and enlisting friends or family to help. If that’s not an option, look for movers who offer flexible pricing—some companies charge less if you pack your own boxes. And don’t overlook free packing supplies: grocery stores, bookstores, and online community groups are goldmines for free boxes. Every little bit saved on moving expenses can go toward settling into your new home.

Protecting Your Budget with a Home Warranty

One of the smartest investments you can make as a new homeowner is a solid home warranty that shields you from unexpected repair costs. Even if your appliances and home systems seem to be in good shape, breakdowns happen—sometimes due to age, and other times because of improper installation or past repairs. That’s why it’s essential to review home warranty appliance coverage options carefully, ensuring your plan includes not just repairs and replacements, but also the removal of defective equipment. A well-chosen warranty can offer peace of mind, saving you from costly surprises and keeping your home running smoothly.

Make the Transition Easier for Your Kids Without Spending More

Moving is stressful for kids, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to make it easier on them. Involve them in the process by letting them help pick out their new room’s paint color or plan their first day in the new neighborhood. Free activities like a neighborhood scavenger hunt or a picnic in your new backyard can make the transition feel exciting rather than scary. And don’t forget the power of routine—keeping bedtime and mealtime schedules consistent can help kids feel more secure in the midst of change.

Buying and moving into a new home as a parent comes with plenty of challenges, but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet—or your sanity. By focusing on the true costs of homeownership, thinking strategically about location and timing, and finding creative ways to save on moving, you can make the process smoother and more affordable. And remember, it’s not about finding the perfect home—it’s about finding the right home for your family, at a price that won’t keep you up at night.

Discover heartfelt stories and practical advice on multigenerational living at Mommy Warrior Lady. Explore now to enrich your family's journey!