Bless Her Busy Heart

Why You Need Alexa Smart Plugs in Your Life

August 18, 2025
I never thought a $20 gadget could make such a difference in my daily life, but here we are. Alexa-enabled plugs turned out to be one of those little upgrades that quietly change everything—you don’t realize how much you’ll use them until you have them.

As someone who works in tech, I’m always on the lookout for products that are functional and easy to use. A lot of devices promise convenience but end up being more hassle than help. These plugs, though? Total game-changer in my house—and even in my dad’s.

I started small—just plugged in a lamp to see how it worked. Within minutes, I had it connected to Wi-Fi and paired with Alexa. Suddenly, that regular lamp became “smart,” and I could say, “Alexa, turn on the lamp.” That simple switch hooked me, and now I use them everywhere: lamps, the coffee pot, porch lights, and more.

Here’s why I love them:
- Hands-free control – No more stumbling into a dark room or reaching for switches.
- Set it and forget it – Schedule coffee to brew at 7am, lights to come on at sunset, or use “turn off in 2 hours” when I just need a lamp for a little while.
- Safety & security perks – I never come home to a dark house, and I can make the place look lived-in when I’m away.
- Simple setup – Plug in, connect, and you’re good to go.
- Family & accessibility friendly – My dad uses them daily, and with his limited mobility, being able to just say “Alexa, turn on the TV” has been huge for his independence. Plus, I can check from my phone if he forgets to turn something off.
Helping my dad get the hang of them has been the most rewarding part. We started with the basics—just voice commands like “Alexa, turn on the kitchen light.” Now he’s gotten confident using the app too, and it’s given him more freedom in his own home.

At the end of the day, Alexa-enabled plugs aren’t just about convenience (though I love that part, too). They’ve made life easier, safer, and honestly a little more fun. What started as a fun little gadget to try has turned into one of those “how did I ever live without this?” tools—and I’m not looking back.

I’d love to hear—have you tried smart plugs yet, or is there one gadget in your home you wish you could automate?
From Grout to Glory: My Steam-Cleaning Love Story

August 11, 2025

I still remember the excitement of snagging a steam cleaner during an Amazon Prime Day sale. It was a game-changer for my cleaning routine, especially when tackling cleaning in my new house, which is almost a 20-year-old house.

I originally bought this steamer with one mission in mind—tackling the grout. I’d tried smaller units before, but constantly refilling and waiting for them to heat up was driving me crazy.

The moment I put this one to work, I realized the grout wasn’t the only thing in need of a deep clean! Even though I mop the bathroom floor weekly, once I started steaming the grout, the real tile color was revealed—and wow, was it an eye-opener.

Here is what happened when I started to clean:

My Amazon Prime Day Purchase Steam Cleaner Amazing!!!

Amazon Prime Day dropped an amazing deal on a highly rated steam cleaner, and honestly, I couldn’t resist. I’ve been curious about steam cleaning for a while, so when this popped up, I knew it was time to jump on it.

I did my homework first—checking out different top steam cleaners and reading tons of reviews to find one that actually works well but is also super easy to use and handle.

I went with the McCulloch MC1275 Multi-Use Steam Canister—and wow, it’s a powerhouse. This professional-grade steamer uses nothing but water heated over 200ºF to blast away dirt, grease, and grime without harsh chemicals. With a big 48-ounce tank, I get about 45 minutes of continuous steam, which means no constant refilling. It comes with 18 different attachments, so I can go from cleaning grout and tile to freshening up floors, tackling greasy tools, and even sprucing up the car. Lightweight, easy to maneuver, and surprisingly versatile, this little machine is now my go-to for both quick touch-ups and heavy-duty deep cleans.

The Amazon Prime Day discounts made the purchase even more appealing, allowing me to get the steam cleaner at a significantly reduced price. This was a great opportunity to invest in a quality cleaning tool without breaking the bank.

The results blew me away. It only took me a few hours to do the entire bathroom, and I only had to refill the tank twice. Plus, the auto-on trigger button was a total finger-saver—no cramped trigger finger here!

This steam cleaner lifted years of grime right out of the grout and off the tiles, making them look brand new—like they’d just been installed. I couldn’t believe how easy it was—just a little steam and the dirt was gone. Now the grout and tile in my master bathroom in my new home finally matches the rest of the freshly renovated spaces.

Conclusion: Beyond the Bathroom – Future Steam Cleaning Adventures

My experience with this steam cleaner has been nothing short of transformative!

I am excited to report that I already have plans to use this versatile cleaning tool in other parts of my home, taking advantage of this steam cleaner to simplify various cleaning tasks. The success I’ve had so far has made me a fan!!! I have already ordered a few extra attachments for future projects.

As I continue to explore the capabilities of my steam cleaner, I’m confident that it will become an indispensable tool in my cleaning routine, helping me keep my home sparkling with minimal effort. The investment in this steam cleaner has been well worth it, and I’m excited to see the impact it will have on my cleaning routine in the months to come.

Do any of you use a steam cleaner? Where should I clean next???
I Got Scammed Buying a Dress Online—Here’s What Happened

August 7, 2025

Normally, I wouldn’t take the time to post something like this… but this one really made me mad. When it involves my kid, wasted money, and a fake dress from a shady site? Yeah, I’m speaking up.

It all started with a screenshot. My teenage daughter came running in, phone in hand, beaming from ear to ear. “Mom, THIS is the dress. I need it for the wedding!” She had been invited to a family wedding and wanted something special—something that made her feel confident and cute but still appropriate. And I’ll admit, the dress was gorgeous

She sent me the link, and without thinking much about it, I placed the order. The website looked a little off, but I chalked it up to one of those smaller online boutiques that seem to pop up all over social media. The price was reasonable, and we were cutting it close on time—so I clicked “buy” and crossed it off my to-do list.

A week or so later, a package arrived. My daughter tore it open in excitement… and the look on her face said it all. This was not the dress!!!!. Her excitement turned to confusion, then frustration.

I felt awful—like I’d let her down.

Trying to figure out what went wrong, I double-checked the website and decided to do a little digging. I looked up the return address listed on the shipping label, and to my surprise, it was tied to several scam warnings on Google. Apparently, this site—or ones like it—had been flagged by multiple people for sending incorrect or low-quality items and offering no real customer service or return process. The site had no phone number, the “contact us” form bounced back, and the return policy was intentionally vague. We’d been scammed.

In the end, we had to scramble to find another dress (shoutout to the local boutique that saved the day last minute!). But more importantly, we learned a lesson I won’t soon forget: when it comes to online shopping—especially for special occasions—do your homework. Check reviews. Google the company. And if the price looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Here is the dress on the site:

Buyer beware: The website we ordered from was jalatvs.com, and based on our experience—and what we’ve now found online—it appears to be part of a larger network of scammy online shops. While the site looks legit at first glance, what you get may be nothing like what you ordered. If you’re considering buying from them, please do your research first. We learned the hard way so you don’t have to.

My daughter took it like a champ, and now we can laugh about the whole thing… kind of. But hopefully, our little fashion fiasco saves another mom or teen from the same disappointment.
Teenage Daughter’s Hair Loss and Color Change After Moving: How We Fixed It

July 22, 2025
Moving to a new home can be exciting, but for my family, it came with an unexpected challenge. My daughter started experiencing hair loss and a noticeable change in hair color. The water in our new house was terrible for her hair and skin.

The First Signs of Trouble

My daughter’s hair started to show signs of distress, including excessive hair loss and a change in color. It was as if the stress of the move had triggered a reaction in her hair. It wasn’t completely ‘falling out” but it thinned tremendously and it was drier and more brittle.

I personally noticed the difference after getting her hair washed at our local hair salon and the difference in just the color aspect of her hair. So I knew I had to find a solution!

Investigating Our New Home Environment

I started by testing the water quality. The results showed high levels of certain minerals and contaminants that could potentially contribute to hair loss. Table 1 below summarizes our water quality testing results. Once I had these results I began the water filtration hunt.

Parameter Result Recommended Level
Lead 0.015 mg/L 0.010 mg/L
Chlorine 2.5 mg/L 4.0 mg/L
Hardness 250 mg/L 100-200 mg/L

My Water Filtration Hunt: What I Learned Along the Way
- Mineral buildup from hard water can weigh heavily on hair, causing it to become dull and lifeless. This buildup can also lead to increased hair breakage and shedding.
- Hard water causes hair loss by stripping the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness. When hair becomes too brittle, it is more prone to breakage, especially during combing or styling.
- The minerals in hard water can also affect the color of treated hair. For instance, copper in hard water can cause blonde hair to take on a greenish tint, while other minerals can lead to fading or darkening of the hair color.
- Teenagers are particularly vulnerable to the effects of hard water on their hair due to hormonal fluctuations. These hormonal changes can affect the scalp’s oil production, making hair more susceptible to damage from mineral buildup.
Affordable Water Filtering Solutions When You Can’t Go Whole-House

After months of research, I realized that a whole-home water filtration system just isn’t in the budget for us right now. With the cost of our recent move and a few other priorities, it’s something we’ll have to put on hold. But trust me—when the time is right, I’ll be getting the one I’ve had my eye on!

I discovered that there are several affordable water filtering solutions that don’t require a whole-house system. I looked for solutions that wouldn’t break the bank or require a complete overhaul of our plumbing system.

One of the most effective and easy-to-install solutions we found were shower head filters. These filters can remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants that affect hair health.

So, I decided to try out a shower filter from AquaBliss that I ordered on Amazon ($40) and install it in my daughter’s shower to test it out.

Installing the AquaBliss shower head filter was incredibly easy and hassle-free! It took just a few minutes with no tools required—just unscrew the old shower head, twist on the filter, and you’re done. The instructions were clear, and everything fit perfectly. Clean, filtered water was flowing in no time!

Proof in the Shower: It Worked!

Within a few months, we saw a huge difference in my daughter’s hair and skin health. The shower filter significantly improved the water quality, addressing the root cause of her hair issues.

Conclusion:

Navigating a teenage daughter’s hair loss journey can be challenging, but our experience has taught us valuable lessons. We discovered that environmental factors, such as water quality, can significantly impact hair health.

For parents facing similar challenges, I offer the following advice: be proactive in investigating potential causes, and don’t hesitate to seek medical guidance. Simple changes, such as installing a water filtration system or adjusting your daughter’s diet, can make a significant difference.

I hope by sharing our story this has helped others navigating similar situations. My daughter’s all smiles now—and her hair is softer, shinier, and finally growing again!

Safe to say this little filter won her over!
Laundry Room Upgrade: Butcher Block Countertop + Foldaway Hanging Wins

June 30, 2025

Lately, I’ve been on a mission to make small spaces work harder around our house. Our laundry room has always been more “functional” than fabulous—but I finally gave it the little update it deserved, and y’all, it made such a difference!

We added a butcher block countertop right over the washer and dryer, and I can’t believe I waited this long. Now there’s an actual space to fold clothes, sort socks, or even set down a basket without everything toppling over. It’s sturdy, warm, and gives the whole space a cleaner, more finished look.

I can’t believe how easy it was to install. We measured, cut it to size, secured it with a few side and back wood blanks, and sealed it ourselves. That was it. No fancy tools, no professional help—just a weekend project that totally transformed the space.

I picked up the butcher block countertop from Lowe’s for around $250, along with the side trim wood, which was under $20. We installed simple support rails on the wall, then set the butcher block right on top. Super easy—and the best part is, we can lift it off if we ever need to access the plumbing or connections behind the washer and dryer. No permanent commitment, just smart function.

Now I have a sturdy, warm surface that’s perfect for folding clothes, sorting laundry, or just setting things down without them sliding behind the machines. I keep it looking nice by giving it a quick polish with butcher block oil as needed. It stays beautiful with minimal effort.

Pop-out Hanging Space

To make the room even more practical, we added a couple of retractable hanging areas. These pop out when we need them—for shirts straight out of the dryer or delicate items—and fold almost flat when we’re done. It helps keep clothes wrinkle-free and the space from feeling cluttered.

This little refresh didn’t break the bank or take a ton of time—but it did make laundry day feel a whole lot less chaotic. I got 2 of these from Amazon for around $20 dollars

My next project? A little paint therapy! This laundry room could use a cheerful pop of color—because if I have to do laundry, it might as well be in a space that makes me smile.

This little laundry room refresh was quick, budget-friendly, and works perfectly for our busy household. It’s proof that even small changes can make a big difference! I’d love to hear how you’ve made the most of your laundry space—especially if you’re working with a small room like we are.

Share your favorite tips or projects!
“Why Do Teenagers Open a New Bag of Chips and Never Close It?”

June 28, 2025

…Asking for every mom everywhere.

We’ve all been there—you open the pantry to grab a quick snack and find yet another bag of chips, wide open, barely touched, just sitting there getting stale. The chips are technically still “good,” but that once-satisfying crunch has turned into a sad, chewy reminder that no one in the house knows how to use a chip clip.

It drives me crazy, especially when we’re trying to make groceries stretch and avoid food waste.

At first, I’d try using those big black paper clips from my desk drawer (you know the ones), but those would mysteriously disappear or somehow end up in the junk drawer. Then I bought a pack of actual chip clips —which worked for about a week—but still didn’t save the chips.

No More Sad Chips: The Trick That Actually Worked

That’s when I discovered the Gripstic—a simple little gadget that slides across the top of any open bag and seals it completely airtight. Unlike chip clips that pop off or get lost in the drawer, this thing actually keeps snacks fresh. It’s easy to use, even for the kids, and honestly, it’s been a total game-changer for keeping chips crunchy and other snacks from going stale.

They come in different sizes, so I can use them on everything from small snack bags to big family-size chips—and I even use them for cereal bags now too. It’s been a total game-changer for keeping things fresh and cutting down on waste.

How the Gripstics Have Found Many Purposes

What started as a simple chip-saving solution has turned into one of my favorite little tools in the kitchen. The Gripstics have found so many uses around our house—cereal bags, frozen veggie pouches, shredded cheese, even half-used bags of rice or pasta. They slide on easily, create a tight seal, and don’t require any pinching, clipping, or wrestling like some other options. They’re also super easy for the kids to use, which means less mess and fewer stale surprises. I honestly keep a handful in a drawer now because we’re always reaching for them.

Surviving Teen Snacks, One Hack at a Time

Since introducing the Gripstics, it’s been great to see my teenagers actually take responsibility for keeping their snacks fresh. At first, I showed them how easy they are to use—no more struggling with stubborn clips or trying to fold bags just right. Now, they grab a Gripstic without being asked, and it’s become a little habit that helps keep the kitchen tidier and the snacks crunchier. It’s one less thing on my mind, and honestly, it feels good knowing they’re learning these simple habits that make everyday life a bit smoother.

From Chaos to Crunch: Mission Accomplished

Life is full of little challenges—whether it’s managing teenagers, juggling a busy schedule, or simply dealing with stale chips and wasted food. Finding a solution like the Gripstic that actually works for us has been a small victory worth celebrating.

I’d love to hear from you—have you ever tried Gripstics or another clever snack-saving hack? What worked (or didn’t) for your family? Let’s share tips and make these everyday moments a little easier together.
“Sandwich” Stage of Life with Dad – Issue 2

June 27, 2025

When Dad Says No to Life Alert: How an Apple Watch Saved the Day

I’m deep in what many call the “sandwich” season of life—juggling the needs of growing children while also caring for aging parents. It’s a chapter full of new challenges, and while it’s not always easy, I’ve learned a lot along the way. I know I’m not alone in this, so I wanted to share some of the things that have helped me—especially in hopes they might help you too.

Today, I’m opening up about how I managed care for my father after he experienced multiple TIAs (mini-strokes), which severely impacted his balance. The resulting falls became a real concern, and since I can’t be by his side every moment, I had to find a way to both monitor him from afar and be alerted if he fell.

Understanding Dad’s Balance Challenges

Dad’s multiple mini-strokes had left him with significant balance challenges. Simple tasks like walking or standing became daunting, increasing his risk of falls. I observed that his balance issues were not just physical but also related to his confidence and spatial awareness.

To address this, we started with physical therapy sessions focused on improving his balance and strength. These sessions were crucial in helping Dad regain some of his mobility and confidence.

My Dad Said ‘No’ to Life Alert—So I Got Creative

My dad is as stubborn as they come—strong-willed, independent, and convinced he doesn’t need anyone’s help. So when the falls started happening after his TIAs, getting him to wear a traditional Life Alert necklace was a battle I knew I’d lose. He flat-out refused, calling it “an old man thing.” But I knew I needed a way to keep him safe and give both of us peace of mind.

That’s when I got creative. I introduced him to the Apple Watch—not as a medical device, but as a cool piece of tech with features he’d actually use. Between the sleek design, fall detection, and ability to call for help, it checked every box. And most importantly… he actually wears it. Sometimes, a little tech twist is all it takes to meet them halfway.

The Apple Watch Fall Detection System

The Apple Watch Fall Detection System proved to be a lifesaver. This feature, available on newer Apple Watch models, can detect if the wearer has taken a hard fall and automatically send alerts to emergency contacts if the wearer is unresponsive.

Setting Up Emergency Contacts

Setting up emergency contacts on the Apple Watch was straightforward. I added my contact information and ensured that Dad’s other caregivers were also listed. This way, if Dad had a fall, we would be immediately notified.

How It Alerted Me During Critical Moments

There were several instances where the Fall Detection feature on Dad’s Apple Watch alerted me to his falls. One unforgettable moment was when he fell in the bathroom—his watch immediately detected it and sent me an alert. I was able to contact 911 and rush to his house so quickly that I actually arrived before the emergency responders. Thanks to the alert, he wasn’t alone for long, and I was able to make sure he got the care he needed right away.

The Apple Watch Fall Detection System provided peace of mind for both Dad and me. It allowed us to maintain his independence while ensuring that help was always just a fall away.

What Worked for Us—And Might Work for You Too

Caring for a parent who values their independence—especially one as strong-willed as my dad—has taught me that sometimes, the best solutions come from meeting them where they are. For us, the Apple Watch became that middle ground. It wasn’t about taking away his independence, but about adding a layer of safety that gave both of us peace of mind. I could breathe a little easier knowing that if something happened, I’d know—and he wouldn’t have to wear something he felt embarrassed by.

If you’re in a similar situation, trying to balance respect for your loved one’s pride with your need to keep them safe, I hope this post gave you some ideas. Technology isn’t a fix-all, but when used creatively, it can bridge some of the gaps in care—especially when we can’t be there every moment.

Thanks for spending a bit of your day with me. I know this season of life isn’t easy, but you’re not alone. I’ll continue to share more of what’s working for us in hopes it helps you too. Until next time—hang in there, and keep looking for solutions that work for your family, not just in theory.
“Sandwich” Stage of Life with Dad – Issue 1

June 26, 2025

Being part of the ‘sandwich generation’ is a challenging yet common experience. I’m currently navigating this complex situation while caring for my kids and aging parents.

This post I will cover Issue 1: The Blaring TV

Understanding the “Sandwich” Stage of Life

As I navigated my own “Sandwich” stage, I realized the importance of understanding its implications. Being part of this generation means being torn between two significant responsibilities: caring for one’s children and supporting aging parents. This situation can lead to emotional and physical strain, making it crucial to acknowledge the challenges involved.

Being caught in the middle means juggling multiple responsibilities simultaneously. For instance, I had to balance my own life, my full-time job, care for my children, and support my dad, who was struggling with hearing loss and issues after multiple small strokes. This added an extra layer of complexity to my daily routine, requiring patience, understanding, and effective communication.

Issue 1: Blaring TV Problem

This post I will cover Issue 1: The Blaring TV

One of the first indicators was when Dad’s TV was so loud that I could hear it from outside the house, highlighting his hearing loss. At the time, I didn’t think much of it, attributing it to the usual volume of his television watching. However, in retrospect, it was one of the early signs that his needs were changing.

As his hearing deteriorated, he would turn up the volume to levels that were uncomfortable for others. I had to find a solution that would allow him to enjoy his TV without disturbing others or straining his hearing further.

Solution: The Roku Mobile App

I had already purchased small Roku devices for all of my father’s televisions, making it easier for him to access his favorite shows and channels without the hassle of complicated remotes or cable boxes. Each TV in his house is now equipped with a Roku, allowing him to simply turn it on and start watching with just a few clicks. It’s been a convenient and affordable way to streamline his entertainment setup, and it gives me peace of mind knowing he can easily navigate everything on his own.

The solution came in the form of the Roku mobile app, which allowed for private listening by streaming TV sounds directly to his hearing aids. This was a game-changer, as it enabled Dad to watch TV at a comfortable volume for himself without disturbing others.

Setting Up Private Listening

To set up private listening, I first ensured that Dad’s Roku device and his hearing aids were compatible. Then, I downloaded the Roku mobile app on his phone and followed the in-app instructions to connect it to his Roku device. The process was straightforward, and within a few minutes, we were able to stream the TV audio directly to his hearing aids.

Connecting the Roku app to Dad’s hearing aids required Bluetooth connectivity. I made sure his hearing aids were paired with his phone, and then we were able to stream the TV audio directly to his hearing aids using the Roku app. This not only improved his viewing experience but also reduced the disturbance caused by the loud TV.

Apart from the Roku mobile app, we also explored other audio solutions that could enhance Dad’s TV watching experience. One such solution was using a TV amplifier that could boost the volume without distortion. Additionally, we considered soundbars with wireless connectivity to his hearing aids.

In the end, the Roku mobile app with the private listening feature turned out to be the perfect solution to my father’s hearing issues and the constant struggle with loud TV volumes. It has been a game-changer for us…. Plus if you already own Roku devices – it is an easy, affordable fix that has made a big difference.

Have any of you tried using Roku’s private listening feature to help with hearing issues or loud TV volume in your home? I’d love to hear if it worked for you—or if you’ve found other creative solutions that helped make TV time easier for your loved ones!
Bless Her Busy Heart: First Blog Post

June 24, 2025

“Balancing life’s many hats with grace and grit”

Welcome to Bless Her Busy Heart, where a multitasking mom shares her journey of balancing work, family, and home projects. As a first-time blogger, I’m excited to start this new chapter and share my lessons learned along the way.

Being busy has brought me joy in the chaos of life. As a full-time working mother of two, I manage the challenges of raising kids, handling household tasks, and taking care of my elderly parents, while also making time for DIY projects and home improvements.

This blog is my way of sharing the lessons I’ve learned from my experiences, and I hope it helps those who read it. I’m excited to start this journey and look forward to connecting with you through my stories.

Welcome to My Corner of the Internet

Welcome to my little corner of the internet—I’m so glad you’re here. As a full-time working mom in the world of technology, life often feels like a constant balancing act between career, family, and personal passions. Through this blog, I’m sharing the lessons I’ve learned, the challenges I’ve faced, and the wins—big and small—that have shaped my journey.

Why I Started This Blog

I started this blog as a way to express myself, to share my experiences, and to connect with others who may be going through similar challenges. It’s a way for me to process my thoughts, reflect on my journey, and learn from others. I’m blessed to be busy, and I believe this busyness is a blessing in disguise. I also know that in a few years, life will slow down—these hectic, demanding seasons won’t last forever. So I’m choosing to document it all while I’m in the thick of it.

As I navigate the complexities of modern life, I’m constantly looking for ways to improve, to adapt, and to overcome obstacles. This blog is my way of sharing that journey with you, in the hopes that it might inspire, motivate, or simply provide a sense of solidarity.

What You Can Expect to Find Here

On this blog, you can expect to find a mix of topics related to my life as a full-time working mom in the technology field. I’ll be sharing stories about my career, my family, and my personal interests.

I’ll also be sharing tips, tricks, and insights on how I’ve navigated this “busy life.” From managing my time to keeping a sense of order in the chaos—I truly love having an organized home and diving into DIY projects whenever I can. It’s all part of how I create peace and joy in the middle of the busyness.

My goal is to be a source of inspiration, motivation, and support for you.

From time to time, I’ll also be sharing updates on my passion projects, including DIY home improvements, organization systems, and product discoveries that I think are worth sharing. I’m excited to have you along for the ride, and I look forward to sharing my corner of the internet with you.

Conclusion: Join Me on This Journey

As I conclude this first blog post, I’m excited to share my experiences and discoveries with you. As a first-time blogger, I’ve learned a great deal along the way, and I’m eager to continue this journey with you by my side.

I’ve come to realize that persistence and having a purpose are crucial in achieving our goals. Whether it’s finding the perfect product for our family or navigating the challenges of the “sandwich” stage of life, staying focused and committed is key.

I love finding items that actually work for our family, and I’m passionate about sharing these discoveries with you. My goal is to create a community where we can support and encourage each other as we navigate life’s ups and downs.

I’m looking forward to continuing this journey with you and exploring the many topics that interest us. Let’s take this journey together, and I hope you’ll join me as I share more of my experiences and insights in the future.