I can’t believe it’s already time to start saying Happy Holiday’s! Like where in the world did this year go!?
My family and I have had so much fun celebrating Halloween, the kids were Batman and a witch and the joy on their faces when they run around trick or treating is just precious. Halloween has always been one of my favorites but holidays in general are just my jam, especially as a mom.
We are fully ready to dive into the holiday season though and I’d be lying if I said my tree wasn’t up already because it is and I love it. Just like they say, turkey tastes just as good with your Christmas tree up 😜🎄
This year has been a tough one on and off though but especially these last few weeks actually but I’m faithful and hopeful it will all be ok in the end. You can only pray about the things you cannot control and that’s what I’ve been doing.
I’m really just ready to take a step back and relax this winter with my family. It’s been a big wake up call and one I wish I never would have gotten but family really is all that matters and the time you get to spend together is such a gift! It really, really is.
I feel like we worry too much about the things that don’t matter the most and I am definitely guilty of it.
My anxiety definitely gets in the way.
So let’s slow down, read those books you’ve had on your tbr for a while.
Watch those movies and shows that make you happy and relax.
Spend time with your family and loved ones.
Have game nights and date nights.
Just decompress.
That’s my goal the last two months of this year and I hope it’s yours too! (Last two months, so crazy!)
Thank you for letting me chat, sometimes I just come here to write because it helps get things out you want to say and do so I’m thankful for my readers ❤️
Welcoming a new baby is an exciting journey, especially if you’re a first-time mom. Navigating the world of baby gear can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This guide aims to simplify the process by highlighting the essential items that will make your parenting experience smoother.
From must-have clothing to crucial health and safety items, you’ll find everything you need to ensure your baby’s comfort and well-being. By focusing on the essentials, you can better prepare for your little one’s arrival with confidence and peace of mind.
Baby Essentials
Getting ready for your new baby can feel like a whirlwind, but focusing on the essentials can simplify things.
When it comes to baby essentials, clothing and diapering are top priorities. You’ll want to stock up on onesies, which are versatile and perfect for layering. Sleepers are equally important to keep your baby cozy at night. Don’t forget hats and mittens; they help regulate your baby’s temperature and prevent them from scratching themselves.
In the diapering department, you must decide between cloth and disposable diapers based on your lifestyle and preferences. Ensure a reliable diaper cream to prevent rashes and a convenient changing pad for those inevitable diaper changes. Having these essentials on hand will make your early parenting days much smoother.
Feeding Supplies
Feeding your baby is one of the most intimate and rewarding experiences, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, having the right supplies can make all the difference.
For breastfeeding moms, comfortable nursing bras are a game-changer. They provide the support you need and make feeding sessions more convenient. A good breast pump is another essential—it’s invaluable whether you plan to return to work or just want to create a stash of milk for those moments when you’re unavailable. Reliable pumps can also help maintain your milk supply and prevent engorgement.
If you opt for bottle feeding, having a variety of bottles and nipples can help you find what works best for your baby. Some babies have preferences, so it might take a little experimenting. A bottle warmer is a handy tool to have around, ensuring that your baby’s milk is just the right temperature, especially during those middle-of-the-night feedings.
When it’s time to introduce solid foods, a sturdy high chair is essential. It provides a safe and comfortable spot for your baby to explore new tastes and textures. Baby-friendly utensils, such as soft-tipped spoons and small bowls, are designed to be gentle on your baby’s gums and easy for little hands to manage. Making mealtime enjoyable and stress-free helps you and your baby build a positive relationship with food from the start.
Sleeping Gear
Ensuring your baby has safe and comfortable sleeping gear is crucial for their well-being and your peace of mind. A crib and mattress should be your first investment, as they provide your little one with a secure and cozy sleeping environment. Swaddle blankets are lifesavers when it comes to helping your baby feel snug and sleep longer, mimicking the comfort of the womb. Lastly, a reliable baby monitor allows you to move around the house while keeping an ear out for your baby’s needs, providing that extra layer of reassurance during those precious sleep hours.
Travel Essentials
Going out and about with your baby requires some key travel essentials to ensure safety and convenience for both of you. From car rides to leisurely strolls, having the right gear can make all the difference in your daily adventures.
The first thing to secure is an infant car seat. This is non-negotiable, as it ensures your baby’s safety during car rides. Look for a model that’s easy to install and meets the latest safety standards. Many car seats also have a base that stays in the car, making it simple to snap the seat in and out as needed—perfect for those frequent errands and visits.
A lightweight stroller is a parent’s best friend when getting around on foot. It’s less cumbersome than other models, making it easy to maneuver through crowded areas and transport in and out of the car. Despite its lighter frame, ensure it has sturdy construction and sufficient storage space for diaper bags and other necessities.
A baby wrap or sling is incredibly useful for hands-free mobility, especially in more confined or rugged environments. These carriers allow for close physical contact, which can be calming for your baby and convenient for you. Whether navigating a busy market or doing chores around the house, a wrap or sling lets you keep your baby close while freeing up your hands.
Health and Safety
Ensuring your baby’s health and safety is paramount, as it lays the foundation for their overall development and happiness. By being prepared with the right essentials, you can effectively manage minor ailments and everyday hazards, providing a safe and nurturing environment.
Having the right tools and items on hand will make it easier to handle unexpected situations with confidence. Below are some crucial health and safety items every parent should consider:
Baby Thermometer
First-aid Kit
Baby-Proofing Items
Playtime and Development
Playtime is not just fun for your baby; it’s a crucial part of their development. Toys play a key role in stimulating their senses and encouraging motor skills. Books are fantastic for fostering early language skills and instilling a love for reading from an early age. A soft, colorful play mat provides a safe space for tummy time and other activities, helping to strengthen your baby’s muscles and coordination. By incorporating these elements, you’re setting the stage for a well-rounded and happy little one.
Bathing and Grooming
Bath time can be a special bonding experience with your baby; having the right tools makes all the difference. A baby bathtub provides a secure and comfortable space for your little one to splash safely. It’s designed to support your baby and make the whole process easier.
A gentle baby wash is essential for keeping your baby’s delicate skin clean and irritation-free. After the bath, wrapping them in soft towels will ensure they stay warm and cozy, making the transition from water to the outside world a delightful experience for both of you.
Conclusion
Caring for a baby involves a lot of preparation and attention to detail, but remember, you’re doing a great job! From travel essentials and health items to playtime and grooming tools, these are key components that help ensure your baby’s comfort and safety. The effort you put in now will pay off in your baby’s well-being.
If you ever feel overwhelmed or need extra support, countless resources and support groups are available to help you navigate this journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out—you’re not alone on this wonderful adventure of parenthood.
Author Bio
Andrea Gibbs, a lifelong New Yorker, balances the demands of being a work-from-home mom with her expertise in business development, strategy, and social media marketing. Andrea contributes to the Kemit Academy blog in Chicago, IL, offering insights and guidance to help parents set their children up for academic success. In her role as Content Manager at SpringHive Web Design Company, she ensures the delivery of exceptional content for a wide array of clients. When not immersed in her professional duties, Andrea finds joy in exploring new recipes and spending quality time with her family.
(Serve as reference, please don’t include this in the article)
Some of my best memories of childhood are walking around picking dandelions as you go adventure outside just knowing it’s going to be the best day.
Spending a whole day outside getting dirty, swimming and being with family are my fondest memories and it’s what I strive for my children’s childhood.
Especially now.
So when my 4-year-old son came up to me while we were playing in the backyard after I was home from a long day at work and handed me a handpicked dandelion just for me I was so happy.
And then when my 2-year-old daughter followed suit and soon I was blessed with a bouquet of dandelions my heart burst.
So of course we had to make a wish on some of our dandelions, pick them apart and keep a couple as well.
As the days are becoming warmer and Summer finally is almost upon us I strive for dirt filled finger and toenails, chasing butterflies, bug hunting, riding bikes for hours, a day full of swimming.
There’s something so magical about a young learning mind. Creating fond memories for them that they will think back on when they are older just like me reminiscing on a dandelion.
So next time you see a dandelion, I hope you don’t get annoyed about the weed in your perfectly green lawn and think of it instead of happier Summer days spent soaking in the warmth that the world has to offer.
Peel apart the petals, make a wish and a perfect time to make some memories with your littles because it’s ones they will always remember.
I swear, some days it feels like I just had my sweet babes. They sure were right when they said time flies when you’re raising kids.
I wish it would slow down.
I’ll tell ya what though, we have been BUSY. Busy busy with life and learning the new stage of “activities”
My son and I just went to kindergarten round up. Cue the waterworks because I can’t believe it, my mama heart is not ready! Even though I am so excited for him but secretly a little scared too.
T-ball sign ups are this week!! Let’s hope for some grass stained baseball pants and lots of fun.
Also, my two year old daughter has such a loud personality and needs to be busy so let’s throw in a fun dance class for her this Spring! I mean why not?
I just find myself all the time asking lately how did we get here already!?
What happened to the middle of the night bottle feeds and the sweet sweet smell of newborn baby.
I have loved every stage of motherhood no matter how hard it can be and I know I am still just at the beginning stages but I can’t help but feel sad about how big my babies are getting already.
At the same time though, it is so exciting experiencing all these firsts.
Motherhood is such a whirlwind.
Watching them become their little selves and learning and growing is such a gift.
I am just embracing this season of life.
Trying to slow down as much as I can and give my all to my family.
That’s what matters most to me.
So yay for early dinners because we have to get to practice and uniforms to wash.
Bring on this new season of parenting!
This mama is ready to take on the new title “sports mom”
I’m struggling with the fact that I have a preschooler.
Where did the time go?
You were just a little rolly polly baby asleep in my arms yesterday, I swear.
Time is such a thief.
Even at a young age, you try to give your child all the tools they will need to succeed in any new adventure in life.
When the time comes to use the tools though, it’s both exciting and scary.
I feel like a tiny part of your innosence will be chipped away as we enter school age, even if it is preschool.
Yet, I want you to flourish and meet new friends and learn all you can at the same time.
Bring me home all the fun crafts you do each day to display, I hope I see a big smile at the end of each day and hear nothing but re-telling of fun things that happened while you were at school.
I know drop off’s will be hard and pick up’s will be exciting and it’s all apart of growing up for both you and me.
I swear, being a mom is the biggest emotional rollercoaster there is.
But just know mama’s, your baby will be fine.
I’m here to convince both you and myself.
Trust the teacher’s.
Trust that you raised a brave, smart and fun little one who will be nothing but great and kind.
And know it’s ok to cry, just hold it in until after drop off as to not scare them.
Know that they are ready, they have all the tool’s you’ve given them.
I know the hardest part will be getting yourself ready though.
I know how hard it is to let them grow, and even harder to let them go just a tiny bit.
Let’s get through the first week of preschool together mama’s!
We’ve got this and know as always, we are in this together.
You want to know what I think one of the biggest blessings in life are? Mom friends.
Even more specific, mom friends and coffee dates!
Seriously, it’s so nice to have someone to talk to who knows what you are going through, or at least has been there before. Everything just seems a bit more manageable when you have someone there that is deep in the trenches of motherhood just like you.
Sporting those messy buns, dark circles and weird stained clothes because for some reason, I don’t know about you but I find a weird stain from my kids yucky fingers on something I am wearing almost daily? Hope I’m not alone in that one.
Anyways, you just feel less alone! And let’s be honest here, motherhood can be extremely lonely.
A walk to a cute coffee shop, sunshine and some chit chat with a friend though? Could cure the soul I swear, even with kiddo’s tagging along.
Marissa and I did just that yesterday, she was kid free but I instantly squashed that when my little’s had to make the trip with us to an adorable coffee shop in our town, The Electric Coffee!
It’s such a cute spot with a fun seating area to chat, work or read a good book!
I just feel like I can take a deep breath when I get myself ready for the day, get outside in the sunshine and have an iced coffee in my hand. It sounds so cliché’ I know but in my life it really is the little things that make me the happiest.
So let’s talk about 5 ways to make yourself get out of the house and call up your mom friend because who says kids are the only ones who get to have play dates!?
Go for a walk.
One of the easiest ways to both enjoy your kids and friends is defiantly taking a walk. Find a trail to get some exercise. Walk your downtown area. Grab the bikes or rollerblades to make it extra fun for the kids.
Visit your favorite coffee shop.
Coffee dates are the best, chatting over coffee is one of my favorite things to do. It’s so relaxing and it is a great way to meet up with your friends and catch up.
Wine tasting.
Something I love as much as coffee? Wine! Wine nights are so fun and if you enjoy wine, I feel like wine tasting is the perfect moms night out!
Workout together.
Take a workout class together! Yoga or Zumba are always fun. Take a hike somewhere you both enjoy walking. Join a gym and plan weekly workouts.
Start a book club.
I love reading and so do a lot of my mom friends! So why not start a book club? You get to do what you love and share your favorite or least favorite parts with your friends.
So make sure to connect and make some time for yourself and your friends. They are so needed to survive this crazy adventure of motherhood.
Most importantly enjoy your favorite cup of coffee at your local coffee shop and chit chat a little, I promise you will feel refreshed! 🙂
For a patient person, my patience is thin and you know what? It’s ok.
Do I feel guilty about it? Sure.
Do I wish that every day could just be rainbows and butterflies? Absolutely.
This motherhood journey is not all rainbows and butterflies though, and boy don’t we know it.
The other day both my kids were crying. One because he couldn’t have a snack right before dinner and the other just because her big brother was crying and she thought she needed to as well.
A glass of wine and a bathroom break with the door actually shut and not being opened or pounded on sounded so amazing at that moment.
I feel like sometimes the pressure just builds up for us with every cry or every tantrum and it’s tough to not be bothered.
Throw in a long day at work and I am just exhausted thinking about it.
It’s hard to keep your head up as a mom.
I think sometimes we just feel beat down. Weather it be a rough night of sleep, a bad potty training day, a crying baby you just can’t seem to soothe, a guilty day of work when you just wish you were home, a sick kiddo that has you feeling miserable as well.
The list goes on and on.
It’s all ok though and I really hope you know that when you feel this way, how great of a mom you are.
It’s the toughest job in the world that you show up for every single day. But the reward? It’s the greatest of all time.
Keep your head up, make sure you take the breaks you need.
Take time for yourself, use your tribe of people when you need the help and DO NOT feel guilty about it.
Take a deep breath and know that the guilt will subside and there will be far more better days than bad ones.
Just know that you’re a wonderful mother and we are all in this together.
I know for me rainy days can sometimes be a blessing and relaxing! I love curling up with a good book or finding my favorite movies on TV. The gloomier the better!
But for kiddos!? Not so much! Spring/Summer time can be tough to keep these little ones from going crazy with all the back and forth weather. I know here in Michigan it’s 80 degrees one day and then 40 degrees the next!
So I’m sharing 7 rainy day activities that kids will love!
Build An Indoor Fort.
My son is obsessed with this lately. He loves building blanket forts and playing with his toys in them. For older kids it’s fun to build one and read in them or even play games or watch a movie on a tablet. So many possibilities!
Paper Airplanes/ Crafting.
Who doesn’t love making paper airplanes? You can either have a paper airplane toss or even make those paper footballs and click field goals. Anything paper crafting is so fun for all ages!
Board Games.
Always a classic. My kids are still very young but I always say I can’t wait for the days until we can have family board game nights! Something I always enjoyed as a child and even as an adult.
Play-Doh or Sensory Bins.
This is geared more towards the toddler age like my son but play-doh and sensory bins can keep him busy for a while! Kinetic sand is always fun as well.
Library Day.
If you must get out and about, I think the library or a bookstore is such a great rainy day activity! Nothing better then finding a good book to bring home and read the rest of the day! Plus sometimes your local library has fun things going on.
Indoor Bowling.
So fun! If you have some plastic cups laying around and a ball you are good to go! I love bowling in general and bowling toys or making your own are so fun.
Baking.
I love baking and I plan to get my kids involved when it comes to baking and cooking as much as possible! It keeps you busy, plus it’s just fun and the outcome is delicious of course.
I hope these ideas help you for the next rainy day coming your way this Spring.
What are some of your favorite rainy day activities?
When your baby is teething, and you’re going through the stages of teething, it can be tough not knowing what to do.
Many questions come to mind, like what if he stops chewing for a week or two? Can food allergies cause my baby doesn’t enjoy his food anymore? Will my baby have bad breath because of her teeth coming in now?
Like so many other things in life, nothing is ever as simple as it seems. Here are some tips to help your baby through teething.
Signs Your Baby is Teething
If your baby is teething, you may notice a few signs. Wet cheeks from drool and more chewing on toys in the mouth are common. Some babies might get fussy, want to nurse more than usual, or wake up more at night.
You can also look for swollen gums and a red rash around the mouth. Some babies develop a fever when their teeth start coming in, but that’s not always the case. Here are some signs of teething to look out for:
Drooling
Chewing on things
Gums that feel swollen
A minor fever of 100-102 degrees Fahrenheit (rare)
How Long Does Baby Teething Last?
There is no set age for teething to begin because every child is different. However, most infants start teething between six and twelve months old. There are rare cases of early teething where babies can cut teeth as young as three months old or as late as fourteen months old.
There is also no set amount of time that teething lasts because it doesn’t stop until a baby’s teeth have all erupted through the gums. Teething may last up to three years in some children, but the average length is six to nine months.
During this time, your baby may go through several weeks or even months between cutting teeth. Once your baby has all twenty primary teeth, they will stop teething altogether, which means you won’t have to worry about it again until they get their permanent teeth at around age six or seven.
Use Teething rings and toys.
Your baby may feel relief by biting on something hard or cold. Try a rubber teething ring, a chilled washcloth, or a spoon cooled in the refrigerator (but not frozen).
When choosing a teething toy, make sure it’s soft and flexible, so your child doesn’t hurt himself if he falls while holding it. And be sure to choose one that’s BPA-free. Never tie a teething ring around your child’s neck or attach one to his crib — he could choke on it or become entangled in it if he rolls over while wearing it.
To soothe an older baby who can chew on solid food, try giving him a firm, unsweetened teething cracker to gnaw on. It also may help with drooling because your baby will swallow more saliva instead of dribbling it out as much as before.
A chilled pacifier or teething toy may provide extra soothing for your baby during the day (if you use pacifiers). Or try putting cooled boiling water from the tea kettle into ice cube trays and freeze them for homemade teething rings!
Cold food.
If your teething baby tends to grab whatever you’re eating and put it in their mouth, offer chilled foods such as applesauce or yogurt. You can also give frozen bananas, which some babies love.
You can also try cold liquids such as water from the refrigerator. Frozen fruit juice bars (made without sugar) are another option.
Don’t be surprised if your baby rejects solids during this time, even ones they usually enjoy. Most babies go through a stage where they lose interest in solids when they are around eight months old. It is called the “baby food strike.” It’s frustrating, but most babies come out of it within a few weeks on their own.
Rub your baby’s gums.
One of the primary side effects of teething is gum pain, and if you’ve ever had any experience with this yourself, you know that rubbing your gums can often provide good relief.
Your baby’s no different in this respect, so getting in there with a clean finger or—if your little one’s more averse to having fingers in their mouth—a wet gauze pad for a gentle massage may be all you need to give them some comfort.
(Bonus: This can also toughen up their gums for when their teeth start cutting through, so it’s worth doing on the regular even before they start teething.)
Pain Medications
Several different medications are available over the counter and by prescription to help relieve pain. However, it’s important to remember that before giving any medication to your baby, you should always consult with your pediatrician. Even natural pain relievers like teething tablets or acetaminophen can be dangerous if not used properly.
For example, ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory drug widely available over the counter and in generic form. While it won’t cause harm when used properly for short periods as directed, ibuprofen can have serious side effects for infants who are given too much or for too long. Too much of this medication can cause kidney failure in babies, and some studies have even linked high doses of ibuprofen to childhood asthma or allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
Try a little white noise.
In a quiet room, do you hear the sound of your refrigerator humming? Is the heat turning on? The coffee pot beeping when it’s done brewing? These are examples of white noise. White noise can also be played through recordings, like using a fan or an app on your phone.
Babies are used to hearing white noise while growing inside their mother’s womb because there is constant background noise from the mother’s breathing and heartbeat. White noise can help calm and soothe babies by blocking out new noises in their environment and helping them sleep.
You could try using a humidifier for added moisture and white noise in your baby’s room. If you’re out of town or flying with your baby, downloading an app that plays white noise might be helpful to keep them calm too!
Final Thoughts
Teething can be very stressful for many parents. Still, it’s essential to realize that teething does not inherently mean your baby will cry inconsolably or suffer from explosive bouts of rage. Sometimes, teething is just a part of growing up.
Children go through spurts at various stages in their lives, including when they are teething. No matter how your baby behaves during these times, it’s always important to look for the signs that something is off before assuming the worst.
Author Bio
Andrea is currently the head of content management at SpringHive Web Design Company, a digital agency that provides creative web design, social media marketing, email marketing, and search engine optimization services to small businesses and entrepreneurs. She is also a blog contributor at Baby Steps Preschool where she writes storytime themes, parenting tips, and seasonal activities to entertain children.
Since becoming a mom, I feel like sometimes Mother’s Day is more hectic than some normal days! Anyone else!?
Sure you get some relaxation, maybe breakfast in bed or a delicious dinner but sometimes it just ends up being a busy day in general and that’s not always a bad thing.
Lately though, I’ve just been feeling burnt out. Between mom life, work life, wife life, never ending housework. It’s a lot to keep up with.
So this Mother’s Day, fingers crossed I get to sleep in!
I wanted to share my favorite “Me Time” indulgences that keep me sane through this hectic wonderful life. Maybe they will inspire you to do something relaxing for yourself on this upcoming Mother’s Day weekend!
1. Reading
I have always been a big bookworm and it’s by far one of my favorite “me time” indulgences. Lately a couple times a week when I’m lucky enough to get the kids to bed early, I’ve been grabbing a good book and pouring a glass of wine.
2. Binge Watching Shows.
It doesn’t happen often, but when I get to sit down with my favorite snack and binge watch some shows it’s a great day! What are your favorite shows right now?
3. Self Care Days.
I am such a self care advocate and I really don’t do it as often as I should. Lately my favorite self care indulgence has been my new Auraglow teeth whitening kit.
I am an avid coffee drinker and it’s honestly helped so much, I was starting to get self conscious! If you would like to know more on my thoughts let me know and I can do a separate post.
4. Writing.
Sure I’m a blogger but one fun tid bit about me is I’ve always loved writing short stories. I’ve once thought about putting them all together into a short stories book but….dreams. Sometimes they are hard to follow. Writing is so soothing to me though, especially pen to paper.
So moms, let’s find some time to crunch in more “me time” in our days!
Let’s throw out the pressure, let’s throw out the guilt, let’s throw out the “I have to do everything” attitude and take some time for ourselves.
We deserve it and I hope all you moms out there have a wonderful Mother’s Day and know that you are doing an amazing job!
Quirky Workin' Mom's 
