I consider myself lucky because my kids’ school has just the right balance. They have homework most nights, but not so much that it becomes a pressure for them or for me. I think it’s because it is such a small school that parents who want to see changes don’t have to fight the “system” too much. The administration always has time to hear opinions and that was one thing all the parents agreed on. The kids are taught more important things like middot and kindness. There is absolutely no bullying in the entire school. It seems to be working! I know many successful schools who have almost no homework. It’s a shame it reached such a stress point for alot of students.

No, you are not crazy. There are definitely some people/neighborhoods where there is a pressure to look a certain way whether it be in clothing, shoes, handbags, hair (oh, and don’t forget the ever present thin figure struggle). I am probably quite a bit older than most of you and have seen fads come and go (and come back again!). While it truly can be fun and satisfying to find just the right outfit, I know many people that overspend and over stress about it till it consumes them. It’s sad, really, and you should feel bad for those who are judging you based on what you’re wearing instead of say, your smile or kindness. Yes, I know I sound like a fuddy duddy but let me tell you this: When my young single or married nieces (I have sons only) come for a shabbos ( I live out of town) they revel in the fact that they can walk the streets in pretty flats and a beautiful, simple Shabbat outfit without getting ANY “looks”. They leave with relaxed smiles and incredulous comments about how they love the atmosphere here. Dress up or dress down, just be your own happy self and you won’t care what others think. There will ALWAYS be judgemental folks out there.

Look on Groupon for salons that do eyelash extensions for a much better price. Also, Brooklyn seems to be much cheaper than Jersey.

I know someone in Westgate if that’s where you live

I had individual eyelash extensions put in once. I LOVED them and it finally looked like I actually had eyelashes but cost around $100 bucks so that was a one time deal for me. My question is this:
Anyone ever try eyelash growth serum like Rapidlash or any other brand that helped them grow their eyelashes a bit more? I’ve been through 3 brands already and have not seen any noticeable results.

Mikee Sesame Teriyaki sauce. That’s it.

I don’t know if this story is true but thanks for sharing it. Beautiful lesson for us all.

Home Goods or TJ Maxx would be my first and second suggestions

Coat chicken cutlets with mayo and then corn flake crumbs. These freeze really well. Bake as needed. Kids also love this (bonus)

I splurged on eyelash extensions once before Rosh Hashana and Succot holidays. It cost about $100 but i had awesome lashes (without mascara) for 3 weeks!
Definitely expensive but for special occasions…

Yes, absolutely! Plenty of kosher food to buy there. As far as shuls, we usually like to have a shul pretty close to where we stay so it’s not a long walk on Shabbat.
You’d have to ask around about minyanim locations. Also, Dansdeals is advertising a sale on tickets to Florida if you want to book tickets. Good Luck!

Stayed in Aventura last year. Look up “Aventura Yacht Club” on a site called VRBO (it’s like AirBnb) for an apartment. Loved the area but the pool is mixed swimming so the boys never could use it:(

I use any detergent, but I think the Downy and REAL Bounce (not an off brand) is the key.

Any special brand mascara at Ulta?