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  • Blog
  • About Me
    • Contact
    • Subscribe to our List Serves!
    • Press Page - Travel
    • Hire Me!
    • DIY Hair Inspo!
    • Privacy Policy & Disclaimers
  • Family Travel + Momcations
  • Membership
  • NJ / NY Guides
    • Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from NYC
    • Hudson Valley >
      • Day Trips & Activities
    • Bay Ridge Families >
      • Life in NYC >
        • Brooklyn
        • Bronx
        • Manhattan
        • Queens
        • Staten Island
      • Summer Camp Guide
      • Birthday Party Guide
      • Classes & Activities for Babies & Toddlers
      • Halloween Guide
      • Holiday Guide
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      • Advertising
      • Submit Your Event

MeRGBW LED Light Up Letters

5/6/2025

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Disclaimer: This post is sponsored but all thoughts and opinions are my own. Links in this post are Amazon affiliate links - you don't pay more but I earn a commission from  eligible purchases made after clicking my links.

​Whether you're upgrading your teen's gaming room decor or want some EPIC birthday party decorations, these MeRGBW LED Light Up Letters we were sent to review are IT!! Watch our full demo review video below for the full experience, and read on for more details and (commission earning affiliate links) to buy!!

Buy each letter individually, and you can group them to sync all the LED letters together and be powered on a single USB cord!

Everything is included that you need, including a USB power cord with attached remote control, a cord to connect the next letter, and screw and double sided adhesive if you want to mount them to a wall, but they're self-standing too!

Leave the USB cord in the first letter, pull the USB cord out of each following letter you plan to sync, and attach the connecting cables instead. You can control all via the first USB cord's attached remote OR via the free app on your phone.

​DO NOTE: only the 1st 4 letter lights will automatically sync. If linking more than that, there's a simple extra step: you'll have to download the free MeRGBW App and adjust the number of total pixels set to light up. Do the math and calculate 5 pixels per light - so if you have 6 lights it'll be 30 pixels. Once you update that (more detailed instructions are in the manual and on the box), all the lighted letters will sync perfectly and be able to control all together via the remove or the app).
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​They're a great size (about 5x6" and 1" deep) - big enough to make a FUN colorful and bright impression as unique home decor and birthday decorations, but small enough to be portable and compactly pack away for travel and storage!
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You can control all the basics on the attached remote, and endless customizations on the app including numerous pre-set scenes, several options to sync to music, create custom scenes, and thousands of RGB options.
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Ready to shop!?

​They've got all the letters as well as a few symbols!! Shop with my Amazon affiliate link here!!

These will definitely be on my graduation decorations 2025 gift guide - they make the perfect girls gifts, boys gifts, teen girl gifts, wall decor, living room decor, office decor, holiday decorations, and even Bluey birthday decorations LOL!! Not to mention what fun glitter letters make in your daily life - keep them up year round!!
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Should You DIY or Call in the Pros?

4/30/2025

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Should You DIY or Call in the Pros - US Japan Fam
Contributed Post.

When it comes to the different tasks you have around the home, you’ll often find that it can be really hard to manage everything. Looking after your home can often be a full-time job in itself. But when you have a million other things to manage, trying to make it work can feel like a difficult balancing act. This is where the idea of calling for help comes in. Not only can this help you to manage everything, but it also ensures the job is done well. Because when it comes to your home, it won’t always make sense for you to do everything yourself. So in this blog post, we’re going to take a look at what sort of things you might want to take on yourself and which you might want to call the experts in for!
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Cleaning

First up, we have cleaning. This is one that you can do in two ways. Firstly, you may want to take on some of the basic daily cleaning chores yourself. It can make you feel like you’re staying on top of things. But at the same time, if you know that you’re finding it hard to manage, you can hire a cleaning company to come in and do the bigger cleans for you. It’s all about finding the balance that works best for you.

Specialist Cleaning

However, there are also some elements of cleaning that you may not want to tackle yourself. For any specialist cleaning jobs, it’s much more appropriate to call in the experts. Here, you’ll find things like polishing up old floors, cleaning your chimney with someone like JCS Home Services, and even cleaning carpets is best left to the experts. Plus, it saves you from having to take on some of the bigger jobs.

Landscaping

Then we have your landscaping. This is one that you could look to do yourself if you’re handy with a lawnmower and you enjoy a bit of gardening. It can actually be an enjoyable hobby and be a great way for you to unwind and relax on the weekends too.

Installations

Up next, we have installations of specialist products or anything that requires a trade. Here, unless you are a skilled tradesman yourself, it’s best left up to the experts. Things like carpentry, plumbing, and electrics should be left to the people who know how to do them well. If not, you may find that you harm yourself or you do a subpar job on things that are important around the home.

Pest Control

Finally, we also have pest control. This is one that you could mix it up with. While there will be some pes-related issues that you might not want to take on, many others should be totally fine. It could be spraying insect spray or leaving out traps. If you’re okay with them, you should certainly go for them. But if you have a bigger worry or you know you’re pretty squeamish with pests, then you’re going to want to call in an expert to eradicate the issue!

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The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Kids Engaged on Road Trips

4/17/2025

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Contributed post.
Long road trips with kids can go two ways: they can be fun and memorable or stressful and chaotic. The difference often comes down to being prepared. When kids are entertained and engaged, 

Road trips offer you a great opportunity to bond, explore, and learn together. You're not just going from point A to point B; you're creating experiences along the way. With the right mix of games, activities, and thoughtful planning, you can turn hours in the car into time well spent.
The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Kids Engaged on Road Trips - us japan fam

​Let's explore how you can keep the kids happy during your next family road trip.

Start With a Flexible Routine

Children thrive on structure, even when they are on vacation. While road trips are all about freedom, having a loose routine can help reduce restlessness.

Break the trip into segments. For example, plan something quiet for the first hour, a snack break next, and then an activity followed by a little bit of screen time. Rotate between high-energy games and calm tasks so that the kids stop getting overwhelmed or bored..

Keep a few consistent anchors, such as meals and rest times, so that the kids know exactly what to expect. When they feel secure in the rhythm of the day, they are much more likely to cooperate.

Pack a Travel Activity Bag

Each child should have their own activity bag packed with items they love. This gives them a sense of ownership and easy access to entertainment. Include a mixture of coloring books and crayons, sticker books, reusable activity pads, puzzle books, small toys or action figures, and a travel journal or blank notebook.

Rotate them in and out as the trip goes on, and keep a stash of surprises to pull out when the energy dips or any delays crop up.

Use resealable bags or small containers to organize your supplies, as less mess means less stress.

Turn the Car Into a Mobile Classroom

Road trips are full of learning opportunities. Use the time to explore new ideas and skills in a relaxed and pressure-free environment.

Make sure you encourage curiosity. Point out any interesting landmarks that you spot, whether in nature or cityscapes. Ask them questions like "What do you think that building is for?" or "Do you think that cows live in that field?"

You could even bring along a few trivia cards or quiz games, such as 20 Questions with science or history themes. Talk about time zones, geography, and road signs that you see.

You're not lecturing them; you are exploring. The goal is to keep the kids thinking and engaged in the world around them.

Make Reading a Part of the Journey

Non-car rides are great for reading. Whether it is a quiet solo time or shared stories, books can help calm busy minds and pass the time. Audiobooks are a brilliant option; choose family-friendly titles with strong narration that you can listen to, and get their input to talk about what is happening in the story.

Bring physical books or e-readers loaded with age-appropriate content., Choose chapter books, picture books, or comics based on your child's interests.

Reading in the car also helps to support literacy; It builds vocabulary, attention span, and comprehension to help young readers improve decoding skills. During your trip, check out these 18 Tips for Boosting Decoding Skills in Young Readers.

Even simple word games can support reading. Play "Find the Letter" using road signs or challenge each other to spot a few words that start with a certain letter.

Bring Back Classic Car Games

You don't need to have screams in order to keep the kids entertained. Classic car games are fun and free, and they also create family interaction.

Some of the most popular are "I Spy" because it's great for young kids and it builds observation and vocabulary skills, the license plate game as it helps you to spot different states and keep a list, then "Would You Rather" in which you can ask silly or thought-provoking questions to spark conversation, and the alphabet game where you look for words that start with each letter of the alphabet in order.

All of these games are great when kids get restless or start to squabble. They also encourage creativity and collaboration.

Create Travel Challenges and Rewards

Turn the trip into a mini-adventure with some easy challenges. These keep kids motivated and focused. You could set goals such as reading for 20 minutes each day, finding 10 blue cars, writing three sentences about today's scenery, and staying quiet for five minutes during a tricky driving stretch.

Small rewards for each completed task, such as a snack, a sticker, or even a chance to choose the next song, can be very effective.

"Truffle Bingo" is another great way to keep the kids entertained and add some excitement. Make your own cards with things like cows, construction signs, bridges, or fast food logos.

Please help the kids to get small wins; it makes them feel successful and involved.

Involve the Kids in the Planning

Children love to feel included, so let them take part in planning where you're going to stop, what snacks to bring along, or which activities to do during the drive.

Offer them some simple choices, such as "Do you want to listen to a book or play a game first?" or "Should we stop at the park or go for a roadside dinner?"

Give them basic math tasks and let them follow along. Teach them how to track mileage, look for city names, or estimate what time you're going to arrive. This helps to build real-world math and geography skills while also keeping them focused on their progress.

Older kids may want to help with directions or look up fun facts about the places that you are traveling through.

Encourage Movement and Rest Stops

Kids need to move, and sitting for long stretches can lead to them being cranky. Plan some time for rest during long stretches. Try to look out for rest stops that have grassy areas or small playgrounds. Even 10 minutes of active play can make a huge difference to their mood and energy levels.

Pack a ball or a jump rope for quick exercise and do a few easy stretches as a family before you get back on the road.

Also, think about building in some quiet time. Bring a picnic blanket or neck pillow for naps and use calming music.

Having a mixture of activity and rest can help to maintain balance and reduce any outbursts or meltdowns.

Keep Snacks Handy and Healthy

Snacks can save a road trip, but can also lead to crankiness, especially in children. However, too much sugar can backfire. Make sure you pack a variety of options.

Fruit slices, crackers and cheese, nuts, or trail mix for the older kids, and veggie sticks and whole grain bars are all easy snacks that you should think about for a road trip.

Avoid any messy or crumbly snacks and choose items that are easy to eat without needing utensils. You might want to think about keeping a small cooler within reach and refilling it during stops. Having food ready avoids any last-minute fast food grabbing and keeps the kids more comfortable between meals.

Don't forget to also have plenty of water, as dehydration can quickly sneak up during long trips and lead to headaches or fatigue.

Conclusion

A successful road trip with children definitely takes a bit of planning. However, it's worth it, and with the right activities, snacks, and a bit of creativity, you can ensure that your kids are happy, learning, and engaged the whole trip..

Use books and reading time to grow their literacy skills and try a few easy games and challenges to spark creativity. Make sure you have your routine in plac,e but be flexible so you can give your kids a chance to move, rest, and help along the way.

Road trips aren't just about the destination you're heading to; they are also about the memories that you create along the way.
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How To Occupy A Long Coach Trip

4/16/2025

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Contributed post.
How To Occupy A Long Coach Trip - US Japan Fam

Long-haul coach trips have become a popular travel option for those on a tight budget. For the fraction of the price of a train or a plane, you can cross entire countries and even continents. However, you need to be prepared to spend hours sitting in the confines of a coach seat. Planning how to occupy yourself is essential - otherwise you’ll quickly get bored. Here are just a few tips on how to stay entertained on a long coach trip.

Plan your itinerary

If you haven’t already planned what you’re doing when you arrive at your destination, your coach ride could be a great time to come up with an itinerary. Provided you’ve got an internet connection and phone signal, you could even book hostels/hotels or even look into places to eat. Having a physical travel guide book (such as a Lonely Planet guide) could allow you to plan an itinerary without the internet. 

Bring a book
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Talking of books, a long coach ride could be the perfect time to get through a novel. This could be a physical book, an ebook or even an audiobook. Physical books can give you a break from looking at a screen and won’t drain your devices, however ebooks and audiobooks won’t take up any extra space (which could be important if you’re trying to travel light). Think about which medium is best for you. 

Queue up a playlist

Listening to music could give you the freedom to also take in various sights from your window. Consider queuing up a playlist of songs beforehand to fuel your journey. Some streaming services allow you the option to listen to playlists offline by downloading them. This could be useful if you’re travelling somewhere that may not have public wi-fi. Consider buying some noise-cancelling headphones as some coaches can be quite noisy. 

Download some movies

A long coach journey could also be a great time to watch a movie or catch up on a TV show. You can watch these on your phone, however a tablet will likely be better for the experience. Some streaming services won’t allow you to stream their content in other countries regardless of whether you have an internet connection or not, so you may have to download movies separately, however a VPN may also be a way around this. 

Play card games

If you’re traveling with someone else, it could be worth bringing a deck of cards so that you can play some card games. Of course, it might be difficult to play some games without a table, however you may be able to improvise. Digital card games can be a more practical option if you're traveling alone. There are online games that you can play against other players or a computer. There are also single-player online card games that you can play such as spider solitaire. Apps might allow you to play card games offline, which may be more convenient on some journeys. 

Learn a foreign language

Traveling to a country where people speak another language? Your coach ride could be an opportunity to learn some of the local lingo. You could bring along a language learning handbook and teach yourself a few words and phrases. Alternatively, you could download a language learning app - which may come with quizzes and other interactive activities. There may even be the option of language learning videos or podcasts that can teach you a foreign language. Make sure to download these beforehand if you’re not sure whether you’ll have wi-fi. 

Journal your travels

You could also spend your coach ride writing about your travels. In fact, if you’ve got a travel blog, this might be the perfect place to write up your next blog post - provided you’ve already done some traveling before you got on the coach. A laptop may be the best device for doing this. Alternatively, you could simply keep a private travel diary to look back on in years to come or share with those closest with you. In this case, make sure to bring a notepad and a couple pens. 

Pack some snacks

While many long-haul coaches do stop for brief food breaks, it’s still worthwhile packing some snacks in case you get hungry. When choosing snacks, try to choose foods that won’t spoil easily unless you plan to eat them immediately. Make sure to also be courteous of other passengers and don’t bring anything too strong-smelling like strong cheeses or fish. Many coaches like Greyhound buses will also have restrictions against liquor and may require hot drinks to be in a flask or cup with a lid. Do your research beforehand in order to avoid taking banned foods on board. 

Talk to other passengers

It’s possible that other passengers may be willing to engage in conversation. If you’re traveling alone and you get lonely, consider plucking up the courage to talk to people around you. It could be a chance to share stories and travel tips and make a new travel buddy. Not everyone will want to talk to you and it’s important not to persist if passengers seem reluctant to have a conversation, however chances are that someone seated around you will be happy to chat if you’re traveling during the day.

Bring items to help you sleep

A long coach trip could potentially be a chance to catch up on sleep. In fact, if you’re traveling overnight, you’ll most likely want to get some shut-eye. Packing a few sleep aid items could help to make it easier to get some rest. This could include a travel blanket to keep you warm, a travel pillow to support your neck, a sleep mask to block out light and possibly some earplugs to block out noise. Wearing comfortable clothes will also help. Some people even take sleep supplements, but be wary that these could make it hard to wake up in an emergency. Even with all these aids, not everyone can successfully sleep on a coach - an overnight coach is not advised if you struggle to sleep on a coach as you could reach your destination feeling exhausted.
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The Top 5 Fashion Items that Gain Value

4/15/2025

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Contributed post.
The Top 5 Fashion Items that Gain Value - usjapanfam

If you are a dedicated follower of fashion, then there's a chance you have some expensive stuff lying around. There are quite a few fashion items that gain value as they get older and are cared for properly. From luxury handbags to vintage designer clothing, here are some examples.

Diamond Jewelry Pieces

Diamonds are a girl's best friend, and they say. But given the value and appreciation of diamonds, they are a friend to all! Jewelry, especially diamond rings, is a smart investment when chosen wisely. Jewelry with diamonds is always popular and can make for great investment pieces. If you are unsure, Rare Carat is the best place to buy diamond rings with natural and lab-grown stones so you can add some timeless and classic quality to your growing portfolio.
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Luxury Handbags from Quality Brands

Does that bag you got for $100 on a New York street not look quite right? Don't get excited, as it's probably not a piece you should be hanging on to! However, one of the most profitable niches in luxury fashion is designer handbags. Certain bags, such as Hermes Birkin and Kelly bags, can fetch a fair sum because of their perceived exclusivity. Classics such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci are also in high demand, and a well-cared-for bag can sell for tens of thousands.

Watches are Fashion Items that Gain Value

Among the most valuable and noteworthy fashion accessories are watches. Brands such Patek Philipe, Tissot and of course, Rolex, are highly sought after. With entry levels in the thousands, these are already exclusive brands. However, they also sell for staggering sums when rare. For instance, Paul Newman's 1968 Cosmograph Daytona was sold for $17.8 million at auction in 2017. If you want to stand out more with fashion, these are guaranteed to ensure that!

Vintage Designer Clothing

There was once a stigma attached to wearing second hand clothing. However, since the 2008 housing market crash and its subsequent effects, people weren't so picky about pretty much anything. Today, the used clothing market is pretty big and even charity stores are raking it in! However, vintage clothing has a unique place, and cost, and sales are better than ever. For instance, certain leather jackets and items like the Fendi Baguette are highly sought after.

Limited Edition Shoes and Trainers

Who doesn't love a good pair of shoes? Whether you enjoy the occasional treat or have something of an addiction like Carrie Bradshaw, shoes can make or break an outfit and your day. High-quality shoes from brands such as Jimmy Choo are beyond most people. However, you can begin small and start a collection that could end up being worth a lot of money. Of course, do we even have to mention Michael Jordan's limited edition Nike trainer ranges?

Summary

Diamond jewelry pieces are among the best fashion items that gain value as they get older. Of course, they must be cared for, yet watches can sell for millions if they are rare or have a history. And what about shoes? Limited editions can reach staggering amounts of resale value.
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Why Your Child’s Education Fund Should Be Part of Your Estate Plan

4/14/2025

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Contributed post.
When people hear “estate planning,” they often picture wills, property deeds, or awkward conversations about who gets the antique teacups. What rarely comes up—but should—is your child’s education fund. While it might seem like a separate, standalone savings effort, integrating it into your estate plan is not just smart; it’s essential.
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Here’s why.
Why Your Childs Education Fund Should Be Part of Your Estate Plan - US Japan Fam

A Legacy Beyond Inheritance

Think about it: what’s the real legacy you want to leave your child? A house? A few heirlooms? Or the chance to learn, grow, and chase their ambitions without the weight of student debt pulling at their heels? 

When you map out your estate, you’re deciding how to protect and distribute what matters most. And for most parents, that list includes ensuring their child has every opportunity to succeed—even when they’re no longer around to cheer them on.

Avoiding the Chaos, Nobody Talks About

Imagine this: something unexpected happens, and your child’s education fund isn’t clearly accounted for. Who takes over? What if the funds aren’t accessible when tuition is due? What if relatives disagree on how the money should be used—or worse, someone uses it for something entirely unrelated?

By weaving the education fund into your estate plan, you set firm legal guardrails around how that money is managed, accessed, and protected. You control the narrative, even in your absence.

Estate planning also allows you to assign a trusted guardian or trustee to oversee the education fund—someone who understands the importance of keeping those funds focused on your child’s academic journey, not sidelined for other expenses.

Education Isn’t a “Nice-to-Have”—It’s the Foundation

College, trade school, private high school—it all costs money. Often, lots of it. And those costs are rising faster than most family incomes. A solid education fund doesn’t just cover fees; it gives your child breathing room. Room to focus on learning, not survival.

That peace of mind is a powerful gift. But it only works if it’s properly secured through your estate plan. If your education fund exists as a loose, undocumented account, it’s vulnerable. Integrated into your estate plan, however, it becomes an iron-clad part of your child’s future.

RESP: Family vs Individual—What Works Best?

One often overlooked detail in planning is the type of RESP (Registered Education Savings Plan) you choose. The debate around family vs individual RESP structures can have lasting effects. A family RESP allows flexibility if you have more than one child—funds can be reallocated if one child doesn’t pursue post-secondary education. An individual RESP, on the other hand, keeps things straightforward but less adaptable.

Whichever you choose, both should be included in your estate plan. Without that inclusion, decisions around ownership and beneficiaries can become murky and unnecessarily stressful for your loved ones.

Wrap-Up: Plan with Heart and Foresight

Planning your estate isn’t about fearing the future. It’s about caring deeply for the people you love. When you include your child’s education fund in that plan, you’re doing more than managing money—you’re investing in dreams.

So take the extra step. Make it official. Your child’s future deserves more than hope—it deserves a plan.

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3 Tips to Make Home Maintenance Easier & Faster

4/9/2025

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Contributed post.
3 Tips to Make Home Maintenance Easier & Faster - usjapanfam

Home maintenance is a major responsibility, and you’ll need to spend quite a bit of time on it. It’ll offer more than a few benefits, like preventing repairs and the hassle these come with. That doesn’t mean it’s usually easy to do. It often takes a decent bit of work.

Thankfully, you can make home maintenance easier for yourself by focusing on a few areas. The right home maintenance tips can help with this. Not only should they take a bit of effort out of your routine, but they could make it noticeably easier.

Take a Proactive Approach

Countless people leave home maintenance until there’s an issue. Something could break, which is then when homeowners put the time and effort into it. This is far from the best approach to take, as it could lead to more than a few issues. You’ll end up dealing with countless repairs, and the stress that comes with them.

By being proactive with your home maintenance, you’ll avoid all of this. While you’ll still have to put time and effort into it, this should be far less than fixing any repairs. You’ll have far fewer headaches than you would with a more reactive approach.

Know When to Call Pros

There could be plenty of times when you’ll need to call in professionals, like with electrical maintenance or plumbing repairs. These are times when professional help can be vital to avoid any noticeable mistakes or hazards. Make sure you call a professional for any of these to avoid more problems later on.

Then there are the times when hiring a professional makes everything more convenient. It could take quite a bit of time to clean a swimming pool, for example, so it could be much easier to invest in a pool cleaning service. This can often be recommended when you live a busy lifestyle.

Have a Maintenance Schedule

One of the main reasons home maintenance can feel overwhelming is because it could feel like you’ve a lot to do at once. Thankfully, there are ways to make this easier for yourself. Having a home maintenance schedule could be more than worth investing in relatively early.

This lets you keep track of when everything needs to be done. Since many home maintenance tasks need to be done at different times, this can make keeping track of them much easier. There’s no reason everything should feel like it’s on top of you once you’ve put together your checklist.

You’ll often spend a lot of time and energy on your home maintenance routine. It can often feel like it’s never-ending, but you still need to get it done. Thankfully, this doesn’t need to be as overwhelming as you could think. More than a few home maintenance tips can help with this.

Not only should these make your routine a lot easier, they’ll make sure you’re still looking after your home properly. With the impact some of them can have, there’s no reason not to put a little bit of effort into them.
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Finding Life Balance As A Work From Home Mom With Career Ambition

4/7/2025

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Contributed post.
Balancing motherhood and ambition from the same place you fold laundry? That’s a challenge many out there won’t understand. But also—it’s a privilege. Juggling Teams meetings and snack time, chasing dreams while trying to find someone’s missing sock. It’s not about doing it all—it’s about doing what matters, when it matters, in a way that doesn’t leave you hollowed out at the end of the day.
Finding Life Balance As A Work From Home Mom With Career Ambition - US Japan Fam

Balance is a loaded word. It suggests there’s some golden ratio between work and home, success and serenity, ambition and affection. Spoiler: there isn’t. At least not one-size-fits-all. If anything, balance looks more like a pendulum. Some days you’re deep in work mode while the kids watch an extra episode of Bluey. Other days, your laptop collects dust while you build Lego towers and make grilled cheese. Both are okay. More than okay—they’re necessary.

Design Your Days With Intention

There’s a certain freedom in being able to wear fuzzy socks and answer emails at the same time. But flexibility without structure can turn into chaos real fast. The trick? Give your days some shape, even if it’s a soft one. A morning ritual. A midday break when no one’s allowed to talk to you unless something’s on fire. An hour in the evening when your phone lives in a drawer and your kids climb on your lap like they did when they were tiny.

Some days will feel seamless. Others chaotic. That’s part of it. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s sustainability. Think less “optimized life calendar” and more “realistic rhythm that doesn’t make you want to scream.” Start where you are. Adjust as needed.

Set Boundaries Without Guilt

Let’s talk about the guilt. It sneaks in when you close the door for a call and your toddler cries. When you’re responding to an email and miss the joke your kid just told. When you’re at the park and your brain is still in that meeting from this morning.

Boundaries help. A real, physical space for work—even if it’s a corner of the dining room. Clear times when you’re off the clock and not just pretending to be. Honest conversations with your partner, your boss, your kids. And yourself. Because you’re not failing by having limits. You’re protecting what matters.

Allow Space For Big Dreams And Real Life

You’re not less of a mom because you have ambition. You’re not less of a professional because you build your schedule around nap time. The truth is, life isn’t linear—it’s layered. Some days, you’re building a business or leading a team. Other days, you’re covered in finger paint. And sometimes, you’re planning your wedding while mediating a sibling argument and negotiating a contract. It’s ridiculous. And beautiful.

You don’t have to shrink your dreams to be present. You just have to let them live alongside the mess, the joy, the noise.

Prioritize Joy And Connection

This part’s easy to forget. When the to-do list is long and your bandwidth is low, joy can feel like a luxury. But it’s not. It’s essential. Make time for the things that fill your cup—without guilt. A walk alone. Music that makes you dance in the kitchen. A text thread with friends who get it. Something that’s just yours.

Because this isn’t about surviving the season—it’s about living inside of it. Fully. With your messy house and your big ideas and your tired-but-determined heart. Balance, it turns out, isn’t a final destination. It’s a daily choice. And you’re already on the path.
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Travel Essentials: How to pick the BEST Waterproof Phone Pouch

3/23/2025

3 Comments

 
Atop any summer, beach, pool, and general travel essentials packing list for vacation should be a waterproof phone pouch. A watertight phone pouch will not only save your phone from potential disaster, but is also the answer of how to take photos underwater! I have reviewed a BUNCH, and I'm going to be going over key features to keep in mind when picking out your waterproof phone pouch, and including a detailed review (with videos!) of two of my favorites.
how to pick the best waterproof phone pouch - travel essentials - usjapanfam.com
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by ProCase and JOTO but all thoughts and opinions are my own. I honestly never go to the pool, beach, or waterpark without 1 of these for myself, my husband, and my son (our twins don't have phones yet but they'll be using waterproof pouches as soon as they do!) This post also includes affiliate links - as an Amazon affiliate, I earn commission from qualified purchases made after clicking my links.​


​KEY FEATURES TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN SHOPPING:
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  • SCREEN FUNCTION: I've tested MANY phone pouches, and some of them make your screen not function underwater, which means you can only take photo and start/stop a video by usign the side button. I've had others where going in and out of the water triggered the video to start or stop on its own. This malfunction RUINED my waterpark footage on one vacation because I would start the photo and then during the waterslide, the video would start and stop every time water hit the screen. Phone didn't get wet but it was still a disaster IMO. Suffice it to say, both the pouches I review later in this post past the screen function test on every level!
  • SIZE: In regard to waterproof phone pouches, size DOES matter... some are just big enough for your phone WITHOUT it's regular case, some are meant for regular size phones, some are big enough for your Max / Ultra size phone. Make sure to double check size before ordering.
  • FLOATING: Most waterproof phone pouches on the market do not float, and if you're doing snorkeling or diving, maybe you'd rather it didn't. But for me it's a bonus if they do float. It's nice to know retrieval should be easy if you or your kid accidentally drops it in the water, or if it's hanging by the lanyard around your neck and gets knocked off your body when you get hurled off the banana boat (I speak from experience). Of the 2 pouches I review below, 1 floats and 1 doesn't, so depending on which you prefer, I've got you!
  • EASE OF ACCESS: I find pouches much easier to get your phone in and out than, let's say, a waterproof cell phone case.  I like the extra large pouches best because your phone goes in and out quickly, and you can often fit extras in there as well like your hotel room card and/or credit card. So it becomes more of a dry bag than just a phone pouch.
  • WINDOW SIZE:  Many phone pouches have 1 side with a full window (for your screen) and the opposite side has a small window for your back cameras, which can cause trouble if you have one that doesn't fit your phone well, or if you're throwing other items in with your phone. I prefer pouches that have both sides of the pouch fully clear, like both of the pouches I'm reviewing below.

ProCase Waterproof Phone Pouch
ProCase Waterproof Phone Pouch - usjapanfam

This ProCase floating phone case gets my vote as the best floatable waterproof phone case. It doesn't have air inside with your phone that could interfere with function, but rather it has a really unique built-in air padding bubble frame that keeps it from sinking and makes it easy to retrieve in the water. Just a really cool design for a floating phone pouch!

BOTH sides of this are fully clear, but it's worth mentioning that (in my experience anyway) only the logo side has full functionality underwater with a high-sensitivity TPU window, so just make sure you put your phone in the correct way. Above water, underwater, no worries - you can scroll, switch selfie to regular mode, take photos and videos, you name it!

It's got a great snap-and-seal closure, a lanyard for hands-free carrying, and comes in a bunch of colors!

Shop this waterproof ProCase phone floatation device on Amazon (affiliate link).

JOTO Waterproof Phone Pouch
JOTO waterproof phone case - usjapanfam

​This is the best-selling classic Joto waterproof phone pouch has a full window on both sides, utilizing thick, transparent material that ensures keeping your phone dry while helping you take crystal-clear photos and videos! It features a sturdy, secure lock so you can rest assured not a drop of water will get in there, and the lanyard is strong and durable.

This one passed my in and out of water test with flying colors as well, with great screen functionality, and the water tension did not trigger the photo or video button.

​Available in many colors, get a few so you'll always have one matching your swimsuit! Do note, this one does NOT float, so you want to be extra careful not to drop it in the water., but it might be the preferred choice for someone who snorkels and dives and doesn't want their underwater phone pouch to float.

Shop for this Joto Waterproof Phone Pouch on Amazon (affiliate link).

I hope this post helped you realize a waterproof phone case should be at the top of your pool, waterpark, and beach essentials packing list! And helped you figure out which features are most important for selecting YOUR best waterproof phone pouch and phone dry bag.

Here are some related posts and resources we think you'll like:
  • FREE vacation prep + travel packing list
  • The Best Day Trips + Weekend Getaways from NYC
  • Family Friendly Cheap Hotels with Indoor Pools in northern New Jersey
Travel Essentials - How to pick the BEST Waterproof Phone Pouch - usjapanfam blog cover vertical
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IPL At Home Hair Removal Review: Salloot Trinity i15 Pro vs. Ulike Air 10

3/17/2025

2 Comments

 
IPL Hair Removal Comparison - Salloot Trinity i15 Pro vs Ulike Air 10 - US Japan Fam - blog cover

​Are you ready for the ultimate IPL at home hair removal device review?? I'm no expert (or professional), but I've dabbled enough in the IPL hair removal world to know what the standout and gold standard features are for a device that will give you the best bang for your buck (i.e. powerful, painless, + fast). I had my armpits professionally treated in Japan over a decade ago, and have been doing my own IPL treatments (underarms, legs, feet/toes, + bikini zone) over the past year, having tested out a whopping SIX IPL at home hair removal devices. Yes... six!!

​I'm here today to review the latest one, the Salloot Trinity i15 Pro (HUGE discount code at the bottom of this post), which is hands down my new favorite, AND to compare it to the Ulike Air 10, my previous favorite, and now a close 2nd!
I've got a FULL demo and review of the latest and greatest IPL on the market, the Salloot Trinity i15 Pro (who sponsored this review, but don't worry, I'm not biased!!) AND comparison to my other favorite, the Ulike Air 10!! What I love about each, what I don't love, how it feels, everything!! Watch my video, read on, and don't miss my DISCOUNT CODE at the bottom of this post!! Let's go!!
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Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links - as a Share a Sale and Amazon affiliate, I receive commission from qualified purchases made after clicking the links in this post.


Features in BOTH the Trinity i15 Pro + Air 10:

​They both feature DUAL lights which is incredibly rare, most IPL devices have a single bulb. Dual lights means more power and quicker hair removal results! They both also offer multiple pulses per trigger (max 4 for i15 Pro, max 2 for Air 10), and work fast - up to 400 flashes per minute for the i15 Pro and up to 120 flashes per minute with the Air 10. They both have manual trigger and auto glide option, the latter makes doing large surfaces such as your legs super easy, and is a MUST for IPL in my opinion. They both also maintain a very cool surface even when using continuously for an hour (i15 Pro stays under 53*F and Air 10 stays under 65*F). They also both blow other IPL devices out of the water when it comes to power - the i15 Pro delivers a whopping 27Joules and the Air 10 has a max 26 Joules - this is the light energy transferred to destroy those hair follicles, so it's incredibly important! They're both similar sizes and weights, powered by regular outlet, making them quite portable and coming with nice storage boxes, razor, and protective eye wear.
IPL Hair Removal Comparison - Salloot Trinity i15 Pro vs Ulike Air 10 - US Japan Fam - full comparison chart

Where the Salloot Trinity i15 Pro Stands Out:

PHR (Powerful Hair Removal) Mode: As mentioned, with 100W of power and a maximum energy output of 27J, coming through a 4-pulse burst in PHR mode (and 3 pulses in regular mode), which carbonizes hair follicles rapidly and is amazing at eliminating course and stubborn hair such as underarms, legs, even men's chest hair!

Sapphire Ice Cooling Window: The i15 Pro offers the largest sapphire ice cooling window in the world, a whopping 16.6 c㎡ (most are only 3-4c㎡), which keeps your skin nice and cool during treatment, despite the powerful pulses of light transferring down to your hair follicles. The window is chilled down to 35*F and kept under 53*F when used for 1 hour continuously. This makes it virtually painless, even in the most intimate VIO (bikini) areas!

The CTONE / AI Coaching HR™ APP: This amazing free app is tremendously helpful - providing step by step usage tutorials, personalized treatment plan, tracking treatments, sending smart treatment reminders (it's important to stay on schedule), AI analysis reports, and more!
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​Wider Treatment Area
: With dual lights and a 4.2c㎡ treatment window, you can move quicker and have less concern about missing a spot.

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Ergonomic Design: The i15 Pro has a 30-degree shaped design that makes it incredibly ergonomic to hold - no need to awkwardly bend your wrist while gliding it along or reaching VIO areas.
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​Suggested Schedule + Expected Results
: Salloot recommends treatments 3-4 times a week during the first 2 weeks, 2-3 times a week during weeks 3-4, and after the first month is completed, maintenance is suggested twice a month moving forward. This treatment schedule takes away user error such as missing a spot, and ensures each hair is treated at the correct time in its growth cycle.
IPL Hair Removal Comparison - Salloot Trinity i15 Pro vs Ulike Air 10 - US Japan Fam - using Salloot on legs

Curious to learn more, or to SHOP!??

​Purchase Salloot Trinity i15 Pro IPL Device (Get $140 off with code HEATHERI15) on Salloot's website or on Amazon
IPL Hair Removal Comparison - Salloot Trinity i15 Pro vs Ulike Air 10 - US Japan Fam - using Salloot on underarms armpits
The Ultimate IPL Hair Removal Show Down Salloot Trinity i15 Pro vs. Ulike Air 10 - usjapanfam vertical
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