New Year's Resolutions — Setting Goals and Attaining Them

My Dad — The Man With a Plan

Thinking about setting my resolutions for the New Year, I was inspired to write this post about different tools that have helped me attain my goals, resolutions, hopes and dreams. The part that I think is funny about this whole post is that as I wrote the advice below, I felt like I was channeling my dad, as setting goals and having clear intentions were two of his helpful mantras growing up (and they still are today). My dad has always preached the importance of setting intentions and making things happen in your own life, rather than sitting around and feeling bad for yourself, waiting for someone else to take action. I can literally hear his voice echoing in my head, and now I get to share it with you. Some of these ideas and skills were also picked up in my high school business class. That type of class is totally up my alley—typing, organizing, planning, management, office stuff, etc.

The easiest way for me to share what works is by walking you through the process of setting a goal and following through with it. Even when you feel like giving up halfway through doing something, it's always good to try and stick it out for the long run. This is because there is no better feeling than looking back on your New Year's Resolutions or goals that you set the previous year and realizing that you met every goal!

Write it Down. Having an intention, recognizing it, and then writing it down is a great first step towards attaining any goal.
  
Develop a Game Plan. Create a game plan for each goal. It's sometimes helpful to find out where the best place to start is. For example, if you want to be a writer, but you don't have any writing samples, apply for a local internship. Something my dad would say is, "Rome wasn't built in a day." Also, consider the challenges you might face, and try to brainstorm different ways to overcome these obstacles. For example, if you have a full-time job, and you're worried you won't have time for whatever you're undertaking, see if you can work less or cut down on another commitment. If it's not possible, consider spending some of the little free time you having focusing on self-care to help balance the heavy workload.


Take Action. For me, this is the hardest part. This is when my "not enough" might come up, or I'm unmotivated to revamp my resume or do something else necessary in order to make what I want happen. There are a couple things that help me take action. One is support from others. Especially when I'm not sure I'll make it, I lean on the support from my family and friends to tell me that it's okay if I fail or that I'm not going to, whatever it is that I need to hear at the time. Other ways to help you take action is setting "due dates" for yourself for each step you need to take in order to meet your goal.

Be Committed. Commitment can be a challenge for a lot of people. Instead of running away or changing your mind when the going gets tough, buckle down harder, re-evaluate how you could do better, seek advice and support from others, and remember why you were motivated to set out to do in the first place. Being committed is not only valuable in work, it's valuable in relationships as well. Commitment is easier said than done, and some people go their whole lives without ever really following through on their intentions. It takes a lot of selflessness, negotiation and time, but if you are a committed person, you will excel in work and relationships.

Revisit & Revise. There is nothing better than coming back to your goals to refresh your mind on your year's resolutions. This will also give you an opportunity to update or add to your goals as your journey progresses. If you got that internship you applied for, set your next goal, which could be getting a paid position in the future. Our lives are always a work in progress, and your resolutions will reflect that.

Cross Them Off.  Your ultimate goal should be to attain each dream you put on your list. As you reach a goal, cross it off. (There is something so satisfying and rewarding about revisiting an old list and seeing every item crossed off.) If you don't cross everything off the list before next year, there's nothing wrong with carrying the same goals for years and years. Some people follow the same dream for decades before seeing the payout, but that makes it even more worth the dedication in the end.


Good luck on your future goals! Please share your tips and resolutions in the comments below!

Baby Milestones — 10 Months Old

Look at that smile! Happy 10 months to my little best friend!

I've been so busy chasing my 10-month-old baby around, I'm a couple days late on this post. My baby has hit her tenth month, and her dad and I couldn't be more proud or entertained. Charlotte loves hanging out with her dogs, dancing, talking, the swings, other kids and playing. All in all, this last month has brought a lot of fun and a lot of exciting firsts.

Our monthly picture got a little out of hand this time around!

First Steps. Charlotte took her first steps shortly after turning 9 months old, and she began walking a couple weeks later. 

Walking. Now Charlotte walks pretty well. Her record is around 12 steps or so. On top of that, her crawling has gained so much speed it makes me laugh sometimes, especially when she's on a mission.

Pointing. Just a few days ago, Charlotte started pointing at the food I was holding. Today, she started pointing at the camera when I was playing paparazzi. Who knew pointing would be so fun? She's also figured out how to "high five." She loves it so much, she squeals in excitement almost every time. 

Appetite. Up until a couple weeks ago, Charlotte had never had anything to drink other than breast milk. Recently, I've started giving her one formula bottle at night, because she is a giant, and I cannot physically produce enough milk to keep her satisfied anytime between 4p.m. and 9p.m. She is a hungry baby, and I can't eat enough to keep up with her demand, although I do enjoy trying to!
 

I know I'm forgetting something! What milestones did your 10 month old reach? Please share in the comments below!

Five Surprising Things About Becoming a Parent

I didn't know that becoming a parent would be so much fun!

Surprise, you're a mom! Okay, so it doesn't really happen like that, even if you feel as if your world has turned upside-down following a positive pregnancy test. Luckily, parenthood comes on slowly but surely, and you adjust as the time passes. I remember when Charlotte was a newborn, I could not imagine having a baby that only took one nap a day . . . and recently Charlotte has been skipping her second nap entirely, and I've adjusted slowly over time to where it's not a big deal. If anything, it reminded me that the days when she was tiny held more challenges, even though my baby slept more. (Although I've been assured by mothers everywhere that around two and three, life becomes difficult again.) And while how easily I've adjusted was definitely a surprising relief, there are plenty of other things that have been as well. Here are the things that truly surprised me about being a mom . . . . and I wouldn't have it any other way!

Strength. Can you say buff stuff, anyone? From surviving labor to gaining serious muscle mass that has only grown with the baby over the last almost 10 months, I have only gotten stronger mentally and physically since giving birth. I am physically stronger, because I have a child attached to me 24/7 (you can find her on the right boob if she is missing). From lifting her constantly to rocking her to sleep, carrying her up and down the stairs and more, I have gotten so much stronger now with little Charlie in tow. 

Patience. I have NEVER been a patient person. I'm the type of person who wants everything to be done yesterday. I'm pretty sure I touched on the subject when I was impatiently waiting for Charlotte to arrive. Now, I'm much more patient than I could have ever imagined.

Unconditional Love. No one can prepare you for how much you will love your offspring, and the love only gets stronger over time. From the moment I first held Charlotte in my arms, you couldn't have convinced me that I could love her more than at that moment . . . but then it happened and continues to happen! My heart might just explode pretty soon here.

Regret-Free. I have to admit, pre-baby I was judgmental. I thought that most people with kids had a sense of regret deep down. The idea of selflessness required to raise a baby was beyond my comprehension at the time. Now I see that I was so naive, and being a mom has been the best and most life changing decision I have ever made.

Deeper Meaning of One. Although I have always had some type of spiritual belief that connects all sentient beings, I'm even more convinced of it now. When I look a other children, I feel like I love them as my own. I feel humbled by the connection I share with Charlotte, and I enjoy watching the pure joy she brings to every person she comes in contact with.


I'm sure as time goes on, I'm going to experience many more surprises. What have been your biggest surprises in becoming a parent? Please share with us below!

Our Favorite Things — Baby Moccasins by MocMommy

Tis the season to go shopping! And what better places to shop than small businesses?

I'm trying to stay modest this year when it comes to buying Charlotte Christmas presents for two reasons. 1 - She's a baby, and she won't remember or understand what's happening. 2 - I want to make family and giving back the primary focuses for Christmas, instead of shopping and receiving gifts.

That being said, I decided that aside from a couple toys, we would buy Charlotte practical gifts for Christmas. And since she walked for the first time yesterday (six consecutive steps!), I think I know one of the things Charlotte will be getting in her stocking—baby moccs!

I knew early on that I wanted to get Charlotte moccasins when she started walking, because they are perfect for a first time walker. I spent a couple weeks following different moccasin makers and falling in love with all the styles and colors offered online. However, the average price I was running in to was upwards of $30 . . . and to be honest with you, I don't even spend that much on my own shoes. So, I kept searching, and finally I came across MocMommy's Etsy Shop. I could not believe it when I saw that all the moccasins in her shop were priced below $10, and with shipping I was able to get these red leather cuties delivered to my door for $10.50.

After ripping open the packaging, I tried the moccs on Charlotte to ensure they fit, and to my surprise they actually did! For one, baby Charlie has such chubby feet that I haven't been able to find one pair of shoes that fit her up until now. Also, she likes to curl her toes when I attempt to put shoes on, which only adds to our struggle. Luckily, these adorable red shoes have an elastic band sewed under the fabric around the ankle, allowing for Charlotte's fat feet to slip right into the shoe, toes curled and all. Then, the soft sole on the bottom gave me the ability to straighten out her toes, making it possible for her to feel comfortable enough to walk. 

Since I ordered these awesome little kicks, MocMommy has added even more adorable styles to her store . . . still at the same ridiculously low prices! Check out all her handmade cuties, and I'm sure you won't be disappointed. 

What are you getting your children for Christmas?? Please comment below!

Photography — Easy DIY Holiday Photos

When paying a true professional isn't always an option, recruiting talented friends or family to snap some quick holiday pictures is a great alternative. This year, my little sister and I exchanged holiday photo services with one another. Here are some quick tips on how to ensure your photos turn out great.

Lighting. Take your photos outside so you can utilize the natural lighting. It really depends on the season as to when a good time to take photos will be, but the times that worked for us were around 9a.m. and 4p.m. Keep in mind that an overcast day is a photographer's best friend, because an overcast sky doubles as a giant light diffuser, ensuring all your photos turn our flawless.

Dress the Part. From head to toe, make sure you're on point with the outfits the models are wearing. It's also important for them to coordinate colors, because you want the picture to look uniform. It also doesn't hurt to add in props that relate to the theme.

Location. If you want an easy photo shoot that feels as effortless as possible, choose a photo shoot location that is close to home. Always be on the lookout for cool photo opportunities, especially in the most obvious places. If you're not feeling creative, textured buildings and greenery will always be great backgrounds.

Shots & Angles. The last thing I do before going on a photo shoot is look up inspiration poses online. I remind myself of the key shots that I want to get, and it helps give me the direction and confidence I need in the beginning of the shoot, which also builds confidence in the models. Be sure to take a lot of shots . . . some up close, take some further away, and experiment with different poses. Don't be afraid to direct your models and get hands-on if necessary.

Click here for DIY Maternity Photo Tips!

 

 

 

 

 

Baby's First Holiday — Ideas and Traditions for Your Family's Celebration

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy New Year! . . . Did I miss anyone?

Whether or not you grew up with strong traditions in your household, adopting customs during the holiday season that your children can look forward to each year is not only fun for the little ones, it makes for a more meaningful experience for your entire family. Here are some holiday traditions that you can adapt for your clan to make December that much brighter. There is nothing that warms the heart like nostalgia, and incorporating your old traditions with some new ones will be a lot of fun.

Commemorative Decorative Piece. It doesn't matter what holiday your family celebrates, most cultures have items that hold meaning spiritually, socially or symbolically, while others are for simply aesthetically purposes. For those who celebrate Christmas, buying or making custom tree ornaments, stockings and batches of cookies for Santa are among common celebratory practices. On the first day of Kwanzaa, many families make time to create handmade gifts that often contain educational messages about African traditions and history. Menorahs and dreidels are two very symbolic items that can be given to a baby who is getting ready to celebrate their first Hanukkah.

 

Attend Festive Celebrations. Look into your community's events to see which winter celebrations would be fun for your family. We attended Upland's Annual Christmas Parade & Holiday Faire last weekend. We enjoyed the parade, and we plan on coming back again every year. 

Document It. Those chubby thighs and pudgy toes won't stay that small forever, and you can never take too many pictures! If family pictures aren't your thing, snap a couple shots of your baby in front of holiday decor or while you participate in your customs, new and old. If you have the time, schedule a shoot with a photographer or convince a friend to take some pictures of you in exchange for dinner or something.

Click here to learn how-to take your own holiday photos!

Give in to the Cheese. Even if there are some traditions that seem pointless with a baby (they're not going remember their first holiday celebration, anyway), it's still fun going through the motions of traditions for you and your family.


What cheesey holiday customs are you giving into this year to celebrate the holiday season? Please share your ideas and traditions in the comments below!! :)

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Our Favorite Things — 3-in-1 Bounce, Stride & Ride Elephant

Like anyone who has spent time with a nine-month-old knows, babies are extremely busy during this stage. By this time, many infants have already began to crawl, and some are even in the early stages of walking. This can only mean that new and creative forms of entertainment are a constant need around my house.

Charlotte's kitchen set was a real hit for at least one or two months. She would pull herself up to stand at her little kitchen, instantly gratified by the alarms and songs she set off as she played with its many built-in activities. Unfortunately, the last couple weeks Charlotte has grown bored with her kitchen set . . . and everything else in her room full of toys. Luckily, we were chosen to be the lucky recipients of a brand-new toy from Fisher Price that grows with us, the 3-in-1 Bounce, Stride & Ride Elephant.

One of the Fisher Price Insiders gave us the choice between three awesome Fisher Price Smart Stages Toys! As a lover of elephants, I knew the Bounce, Stride & Ride Elephant was the toy for us. Today, the large package came in the mail, and we couldn't have been more excited. After taking a couple photos of the box, we quickly opened the packaging. While some assembly was required, it took about five minutes and was really easy overall. Charlotte even joined in on the construction process!

Once we finished the quick assembly, Charlotte's elephant didn't waste any time singing songs, playing tunes and encouraging her participation in all the light-up, musical fun! Serving as three different toys depending upon a baby's ability, Charlotte immediately had fun bouncing on the seat, only to then start using the toy as a walker! While she hasn't quite mastered walking yet on her own, getting around the house was a breeze with this toy. It has a wide base and a low center of gravity, which makes it the perfect companion for an early walker. It's also neat, because once Charlotte is a little bit older, her elephant will be perfect for cruising around the house as her first set of wheels.

We are grateful to our friends at Fisher Price for helping us find our newest favorite thing! Do you have any favorite toys that encourage a child's development throughout their different stages of growth? If so, please share them with us below!

40 Weeks In — 40 Weeks Out

Best 80 weeks of my life!

I feel quite different than I did 40 weeks ago . . . I'm definitely more comfortable, confident, and although I'm still sleep-deprived, it is largely by-choice. Although pregnancy was a magical time in my life, there is no comparison to spending every day face-to-face with my sweet daughter. Motherhood is so meaningful, and compared to pregnancy, it has been much more enjoyable in my experience.

First on the list is that I love having my body back. Although I'm still breastfeeding and constantly attached to sweet Charlotte, I'm well below my pre-pregnancy weight, and I appreciate being able to lift, move and work like I did before I got pregnant. Another great advantage of not being pregnant anymore is the fear of the unknown has subsided. I'm no longer waking up constantly throughout the night counting movements or obsessing over every small detail of labor, delivery and the health of my baby. 

Overall, the 40 weeks it took to grow Charlotte inside seemed to last three times longer than the time that has passed since Charlotte has been born, and I can only imagine that this will be the theme of my life from here on out. Charlotte was just a sparkle in her daddy's eye 80 weeks ago, and now she is here filling everyone's lives with laughter, slobbery kisses, pure joy and truckloads of unconditional love.

A Holiday for Thanks

Isn't it pretty obvious what I'm thankful for?!

You're probably expecting the typical "What I'm thankful for . . . " list from this post, but I'll save that for my family's pre-dinner tradition. Instead, I want to share an article that is really special to me. It was the first cover story I wrote for IE Weekly last year.

Giving Thanks is a piece I was inspired to write, because I wanted to remind or educate people on the types of values that are held in many local Native American tribes. Many Native Americans have relationships with nature, food and material possessions that we can learn a lot from. One example of this that I explain in the article is how, "Food isn’t just for nourishing one’s body—it is also an important element for spiritual celebration, social fabric and maintaining a connection with nature."

I hope we can take a moment and re-evaluate our priorities when it comes to the holidays. While I will definitely follow my family's typical Christmas traditions to ensure Charlotte has a great first holiday season, I want to continue focusing more on the experience and less on the things.

Remember to always count your blessings, be altruistic, and take a moment to really soak in what a great gift life is today and every day.

Happy Thanksgiving! From Charlotte & Me!

Baby Milestones — Nine Months Old

The exhaustion of having a nine-month-old is taxing in a completely different way than that from being a full-time mom to newborn. Pre-toddlers like Charlotte are so busy they end up fighting off naps right and left, and I find myself remembering the days when naps could last three hours. While every stage in a mini-human's development has its own unique set of challenges, I love watching my daughter grow. Happy nine months angel baby! These are some of the milestones Charlotte is hitting at nine-months-old:

Multi-tasking. Charlotte doesn't only stand unaided for up to one minute, she at the same time claps, dances and celebrates the overall happiness of life. Oh, and she took her first step yesterday! No big deal!

Speech. Charlotte has been saying words like "dada" and "hi" for more than half her life, however now also says with intent, "Baba" and "Papa." Whenever she is prompted to say "mama," instead she answers with a scary growl-like sound. I think it means she's trying!

Food & Diet. This little lady is still starving despite being in the top 90th percentile for height and weght. Aside from as many healthy servings of breast milk as Charlotte wants each day, she also enjoys three meals and plenty of snacks.

Playtime. Char has reached a milestone within the last couple weeks, and it might be one of the best milestones yet. She is able to safely entertain and play by herself for a decent amount of time. By decent amount of time, I'm referring to enough time to shower in the morning. She loves toys, and when she is happy in the morning, it is easy to distract her for up to 20 minutes in her play pen aka baby jail.

I love how grown-up Charlotte is becoming. She is on the verge of walking, and I have to constantly remind myself to slow down and appreciate every sweet moment with my little girl.

What milestone has your baby hit recently? Please share below!

Surviving Breastfeeding — One Bite at a Time

My parenting priorities are shifting, and I'm learning to become more creative every day . . . which is exactly what having a nine-month-old will do to you! What used to work just doesn't have the same appeal to my baby anymore. Her new tendencies are forcing me to reconsider my approach to many aspects of our relationship, with breastfeeding at the front and center of the issue.

Between the biting, scratching and pinching, breastfeeding has been full of all new challenges. Anyone who thinks that a mother continues breastfeeding for her own personal enjoyment has clearly never had to deal with the trials and tribulations that come with breastfeeding a newborn who can't latch, an infant who wants boob 24/7 or a pre-toddler with a full mouth of teeth.

I have said from the beginning that breastfeeding has been my go-to mom trick. Whether Charlotte is fussy, hungry, sleepy or even hurt, a little boob makes everything so much better. However, I've had to completely shift this way of thinking lately, because little miss seven teeth has another agenda, and it is usually painful for mom. I only offer Charlotte the boob when she is genuinely hungry, or else I'm guaranteed to get bit hard enough to leave a scab. Although she is less likely to bite me at first when she's hungry, if I leave her on to the point that she gets bored or curious, I'm in for a bite. 

Oh, and then there's the pinching and scratching that comes along with all this. And while the painful peak is during breastfeeding, the abuse comes throughout the day.

The only advice I have for other moms is to take your baby off the breast when they start biting. Other than that, I'm curious if there are other ways to help end the pain. I'm surviving breastfeeding one bite at a time, but I would love to hear advice from other moms below!

Taking Care of Yourself, A Helpful Guide for Moms

Eating, drinking, sleeping . . . it seems like my most basic necessities are the ones that most often get neglected. Although Charlotte is huge, full and well-rested, I can't say the same for myself.

I eat as often as I can, but I don't think my diet always meets the 2000 calories that is recommended for a breastfeeding mother. A challenge I have is that I prefer to eat at home, and recently I've really been focusing on eating organic. This poses a problem when I'm trying to eat a full meal in a short amount of time. 

Beyond that, sleeping is always second priority to work, and there is always so much more work to be done between Charlotte, my dogs, housework and my paying jobs. (As I write this, it's 1a.m., and I'm sure I will be up before 7a.m. to hang out with sweet Charlotte.) If you're a mom who struggles like me to make the time to take care of her basic necessities, here is a guide to aid you in taking care of yourself for a change. These simple cheats will aid you in successfully feeding, resting and hydrating yourself . . . one day at a time.


Eating!

Meal Prep. Don't miss an opportunity to plan ahead for a meal. If you make tacos one night for dinner and have leftover meat, beans, cheese and other ingredients, don't let them go to waste. Prep some healthy burritos for the next day. I'm guilty of eating burritos for a noon breakfast as a last resort, but it is always a great burst of protein.

Easy, Healthy, Organic Meals. Pre-made meals don't have to look like cheap, soggy microwave entrees. Instead, opt for a healthier and fresher food like organic, vegan soups. My personal favorites are the Amy's Organics Tomato Bisque and No Chicken Noodle Soup, however they have a great assortment for you to enjoy. Pre-made soups take only a couple minutes when heated on the stove-top or in the microwave. Throw a couple crackers or chips in the mix, and you have a hearty meal to keep you going.


Sleeping!

Take a Nap. So maybe you have four emails to answer, and the dogs could always use a walk, but you're exhausted. Give in to the baby's second nap of the day, and just relax. If it turns into a nap, that's even better. Nothing can beat good old fashioned sleep.

Early Night. This is my least favorite. I'm a night owl. I like to stay up. I enjoy the quiet time, and I feel like my best work gets done when I'm (almost) uninterrupted. However, every once in a while it's good to throw the towel in a couple minutes early. A full night's sleep is rejuvenating, and it might make you feel even better than a little alone time would have anyways.


Drinking Water!

Make it Convienent. If you're a filtered water person, it's best to keep a couple reusable water bottles filled and ready to go at all times. If you're a disposable water bottle person, you're already working with a convenient source of water, assuming that you keep it well stocked.

Take it Everywhere. It doesn't matter if you're going somewhere that will have water, be sure to stock up so you can anticipate your thirst before it creeps up on you. Especially for breastfeeding moms—thirst is at a whole new level.

Stash it Everywhere Too! I keep water next to the rocking chair, in my diaper bag and next to my bed. It might look untidy, but it helps me keep hydrated, even when it's not always on my list of priorities.



I hope this little guide to taking care of your basic needs gave you some ideas on how to better plan for it. Any moms out there willing to share their tips and tricks on how to take better care of themselves? I would love to hear your suggestions below!

Baby Milestones — Introducing Finger Foods

Charlotte is a pro at feeding herself . . . well almost!

I can't speak for all eight or nine-month-old babies, but my daughter loves organic finger foods! Little pieces of soft fruits like bananas and pears, as well as baby puffs, munchies and more keep her happy and entertained in her high chair. Whether we're doing dishes in the kitchen or enjoying dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants, snacking keeps little Cha Cha happy while mom gets a moment of freedom. Like with anything that comes with being a first time mom, introducing finger foods wasn't the simplest of tasks. However, starting off slow and paying attention went really far in the long run.

First Finger Food Favorites! The first type of finger food I decided to introduce to Charlotte was organic sweet potato puffs. They were easy to pick up, and I figured she would have the most success with these quickly dissolving little treats. It took trial and error for me to discover the best size for her to mash up with her seven teeth and then swallow without gagging was one-quarter of the little snack. Now, just weeks later, she is able to eat full sized puffs with ease.

Another favorite finger food of my daughter's is bananas. I still find myself having to smash the small banana pieces slightly to help Charlotte eat them with ease. Other finger foods she likes are cooked peas (smashed or with skins removed), cottage cheese, chunks of soft sweet potato and more. I wish my baby could enjoy avocado, but it doesn't agree with her tummy.

Charlotte insists on feeding herself, even when I'm trying to do it efficiently. For this reason and more, I just let my daughter feed herself with the spoon sometimes, while I sit there ensuring she doesn't hurt herself. I usually have a back up spoon to make sure she actually eats. Other times, I will give in to her busy hands grabbing at the bowl of messy pureed food, and I let her feed herself hands-on. This typically happens in the morning before bath time. Thank goodness for high chairs and dogs! Without them, I would be stuck with a more ridiculous mess.

 Remember to always constantly supervise your baby while they are eating! It's your job to keep your baby safe!

I'm always looking for more healthy finger food options for my almost nine-month-old baby. Please share your suggestions below!

Tips and Tricks from a Work at Home Mom (WAHM)

 

I recently read a blog post by a work-at-home-mom who listed off everything she did throughout the day and the time it took for each task. I found myself laughing with relief as I read her post, discovering that I'm not the only person who has to utilize even the quickest moment of opportunity throughout her day-to-day, just to get a little bit of work done—Two minutes towards an email, 30 seconds of brainstorming, ten minutes to put the final touches on an article the morning of its deadline. Although it can sometimes be a dizzying balance act, there are definitely ways to make the work-at-home-mom gig a little bit more fluid. My tips are listed below (and they may be useful for all moms looking to accomplish as much as possible in a busy day).

Coordinating Naptime. There have been a couple times when Charlotte falls asleep for a nap literally one to three minutes before I have a business phone call scheduled. A large majority of the times that I have a phone meeting or interview, I am able to secure a babysitter in advance. However, there have been a couple occasions that have forced me to get creative. One way I've made this work is by scheduling my call close to her sleepy time. I then give myself at least 20 minutes before the call to breastfeed Charlotte to sleep. Each time I've quietly crept out of the room, leaving my baby to get her needed rest, I've felt like I totally accomplished super mom status.

Be Present. I chose to be a work-at-home-mom while my baby is young, so I can give her all the attention and love I know she needs throughout the day. I don't work at home so she can feel neglected and ignored while I hide behind my computer. Therefore, I try to decipher the different times between Charlotte time and work time, that way she is getting 100 percent of my attention, and she is not having to compete with my iPhone. 

Claim Your Space. It's true what people say about children taking over houses. Don't let this happen to you. We all need a little space to do our best thinking and work. So, claim a space in your house that is dedicated to your work and any other passions you have. If you have a spare room or corner in your bedroom, set it up as a home office or studio, and make it a place of your very own.

Schedule It. If your job doesn't require it already, set office hours for yourself. These are the times when you go to your space and get work done uninterrupted. Okay, so maybe I really need to take my advice on this one, because it is so valuable, and it is much easier said than done. 

Click HERE to read about adjusting to at-home life

Dress the Part. One piece of advice that I received that really sticks out to me was a tip on how to avoid post partum depression. Every day I make a point to get up, shower and get ready for the day. Not only does it make me feel better, it also really motivates me to get various tasks handled. Because I am able to work from home, I typically don't dress anything beyond casual, unless I have a business meeting. However, doing my makeup, brushing my teeth and throwing on a clean tank top can really do a lot for a girl's confidence, and I recommend it!

Recruit Help. You can't do it alone! And even if you can, you really shouldn't have to. Reach out to family, friends or trusted individuals within the community. Children are full time jobs and then some! Working on top of this can run you ragged really quick if you don't have moments of relief. 

Give Yourself a Night Off of Work. There never seems to be enough hours in a day, but it's best to accept it, and move on. The best way you can do this, and avoid the possibility of getting burnt out from doing too much, is by allowing yourself time off at least once a week. It's of course easier said than done, but for someone who works constantly throughout the day and night, a couple hours of turning off the email, cuddling up and enjoying Netflix is about all you need to rejuvenate yourself for the next week.

These are my personal tips and tricks for a work-at-home mom. Are there any other moms out there that can attest to some mom-life-balancing strategies? If so, please share them below!

Modern Mamas — Our First Outing

Charlotte Enjoyed the Swings at the Park for the First Time Today

Today marked the first official meeting for the mom social club I have created. After posting the event in our group, I was pleasantly surprised to see that a large majority of the group members were planning to attend the first mom outing. So, I had to get prepared by buying some chips and salsa, as well as getting together some simple, hands-free ice-breaker games for the moms to get to know one another.

The group today ended up being about half the size I had initially anticipated, so ice breaker games weren't necessary. With only four moms and their littles, the small intimate group made it easy for us girls (and our little ones) to get to know each other. I still have the ice breaker games ready for the next meeting when a larger group can attend.

New Best Friends Today at Our First Outing - Photo Courtesy of Karen Fiel

The ice breaker games I decided on were simple activities the moms could do to get to know one another. When choosing games and activities for a moms group, if the kids are not involved, it's best to keep it hands-free. It is also valuable to keep an activity that allows moms the option of opting in and out of, as their responsibilities can change momentously (diaper changes, feedings, owies, tantrums . . . the possibilities are endless). Here are a few of the games that I think we will get to enjoy at the next meeting, although they may be a little cheesy at first.


Yarn Game. Take a large spool of yarn, and cut it into various lengths. Each person selects a piece of yarn. They are instructed to introduce their self to the group for as long as it takes to wrap the yarn around their finger. Make sure a few of the strings are extra long, so you really get to know about your new friends.

Two Truths & One Lie. As straight-forward as it sounds, this is another get-to-know you type activity. Each person in the group takes a turn sharing two truths and one lie about their self. Then the other participants try to determine which fact was untrue.

Story Telling Activity. This game requires a little preparation, but you are then able to gear it towards moms specifically. On either notecards or post it notes, write out various sentence starters to pass out to each mom. Some of the story starting sentences I used were:

"The time my baby was the messiest was when . . . "
"The best part of my day is . . . "
"The best advice I have received so far has been . . ."
"If I had three wishes for my family, they would be . . ."
"The part about being a mom that surprised me the most was . . . "
"My funniest mom moment has had to be . . . "
"My ideal family vacation would be . . . "


We had a great time getting to know each other at our first outing, even though we didn't get a chance to do these activities. If you're trying to start a mom group, be sure to get feedback from the other moms on what they would like out of the group. Find out what accommodates their schedules best, what types of activities they would like to do, places they'd like to meet, as well as anything else that will help you make the group better for everyone involved. I also encouraged group members to create their own events when they see an activity they'd like to do or a class they might want to attend.

Feel free to share any other tips for starting a mom's group below!

Our Favorite Things — Inexpensive Books

There are few material things of Charlotte's that hold a significant importance to me, however Charlotte's book collection is definitely one of them. Of course she was gifted some of my favorite books in her library. The first is a personalized book that spells out her entire name, gifted by the family of her dad's best friend. The second is a copy of Charlotte's Web, which was inscribed with a sweet note from her Nana Sharon.

I've gotten her some of my favorites like Love You Forever, The Foot Boot, Just Me and My Mom and so many more. I was building up quite the collection, but it was getting quite expensive. I found myself constantly on Amazon trying to find a new book, and we would always stop by Barnes & Noble to easily pay $10 for a book or two. 

We quickly ran into a problem that happens when you're reading multiple books a day—reading the same book time after time can get boring. That's where some of Our Favorite Things came into play, which are books from the thrift store! The number one quality I look for in a book from the thrift store is cleanliness. If it's clean and not creepy, then I grab it. The photo above shows seven books I snagged for under four dollars! You can't beat that. Plus, I remember a few of the books from when I was little, so that's definitely a plus. 

Thank You For My 26th Birthday

True Love — 2010

Josh and I met about a month before he turned 29. On the morning of his birthday, one of the first things he did was call his mom. I remember thinking it was bizarre, so I questioned this ritual. Josh explained that it was in fact his mother who did all the work to bring him into the world, and on his birthday he felt it was more appropriate for him to call her and express his gratitude than it was to wait for her to call. I thought this way of thinking was unique, as many things are in the mind of my fiance, but that was all I thought about it at the time.

Today, I am spending my 26th birthday in a similar way that I spend all of my days, which is alongside my sweet Charlotte. As I reflect on this story from almost five years ago, I have a completely new appreciation for the people who gave me the gift of life.

I especially want to express my appreciation for my mother. Throughout my life, my mom has been by my side wiping my tears, supporting my decisions, loving me unconditionally and more. I never understood the dedication and commitment being a mom requires until I had a little one of my own. From the onset of pregnancy, into the transformative experience of childbirth, and through the newness and eventual way of life that is parenthood, becoming a parent is one of the most selfless choices one makes, and it takes a true warrior like my mom to always come from a place of care and understanding.

So on my birthday, I want to say thank you to my mom and dad! My parents have sacrificed everything to give me (and my three sisters) more love, guidance, friendship and fun than we could have ever hoped for. I wouldn't be here without them (literally), and I hope that one day Charlotte loves and appreciates Josh and me in a similar way that we do our parents.

Baby Milestones — Eight Months Old

My sweet eight-month-old baby is hitting milestones left and right

I am now over eight months into motherhood, and I fall more in love with Charlotte every day. It doesn't matter if I play a song off iTunes that reminds me of pregnancy, or if I'm just watching her sleep at the end of my long night . . . Either way, every part of my days makes me fall more head-over-heels in love with this little girl.

Not only have I been blessed with an extremely happy and easy-going baby, Charlotte is also very strong and confident. I am so beyond grateful to be Charlotte's mama, and I find myself wondering what exactly I did in a past life to deserve the gift of her presence in my day-to-day. My girl has always been ahead of the curve in her growth and development, so it is no surprise that she has continued with mastering milestones.

What milestones are we enjoying at eight-months-old?

Crawling. Charlotte is an all-star crawler. She has finally mastered clearing the landing between her room and the hall. She is always up to her own agenda, deciding to crawl away when her mom and auntie are playing in her room with her.

Pulling Up to Stand. While a box, couch, chair, knee or dog are all great options, my eight-month-old baby's favorite object to pull herself up to stand on is her kitchen set. A hand-me-down from my parents, this kitchen set is interactive and full of music and learning activities. Charlotte tears it up dancing, leaning and playing on her kitchen set for up to two hours.

Standing. Using just about anything, short or tall, to pull herself up, Charlotte then stands and balances free of any help for up to 30 seconds. I was almost certain she would take her first step today, but the stars haven't quite aligned yet. We'll get her until nine months to commit to walking.

Clapping. If you're happy and you know it . . . Charlotte caught onto clapping quite quickly. After her dad taught her how to clap one night, and she remembered it the next morning, her understanding of this action has only grown. When Charlotte and I found ourselves at House of Ruth's Rally Out Against Domestic Violence last week, she was clapping along with the crowd and celebrating between speeches and performances.

Snacking. Charlotte enjoys snacking on small pieces of bananas and organic, gluten-free puffs . . . as well as anything else mom approves. Her hand-eye coordination is spot on, while her ability to navigate food between her pointer finger and thumb and into her mouth is only successful about half the time.

Communication. Conversations between Charlotte and her chosen person (stranger or family member) are a lot more deliberate than they used to be. She has two different waves, and she is quick to mimic all her favorite people. Her favorite words and expressions (besides growling constantly) are dada, hi, baba and yay.

Another note that I'd like to make, even if only for myself in the future, is how Charlotte makes friends with everyone in her path everywhere we go. I cannot leave my house or go into public without multiple comments on Charlotte's giant smile, friendly growls and sweet demeanor. It's adorable now, but I'll definitely have to teach her to not talk to strangers someday! ;)

A New Endeavor — Starting a Local Mom's Group

I've started a mom's group, and I can't say that it was my idea. About two weeks ago, my little sister mentioned to me that I should organize a community for local mothers to meet up with their kids to share advice, stories and friendship. I entertained the idea for a couple days, but among my other responsibilities of work and home, I dismissed the concept by telling myself that I just didn't have the time.

Fast forward to last Sunday . . . 

Here I am at a baby shower for one of my girls of whom I have no mutual friends. I was quickly introduced to another mom who has a baby boy only weeks younger than my sweet Charlotte. We began chatting back and forth, and we immediately found out that we had so much in common. Just minutes into our conversation, she looked at me and asked with a smile, "Are you in a mom's group?" Instantly, I had a realization that this conversation was happening for a purpose . . . I needed to start a meet-up for local moms with little ones. 

Today, I decided to make good on the commitment I made with myself, and I've started my mom's group, "Modern Mamas Social Club." I was sure to invite some of my favorite local moms, and they invited their friends. While I've done a ton of research on mom's groups . . . I'm still a newbie to this whole thing. I'm so excited to meet up with other moms and their minis, and I am also happy to learn more about what will make this group valuable to all its members. 

Feel free to share your advice below for running or being a part of a mom's group! 

A New Baby in My Life Brings Love and Nostalgia

This Article Was Written Oct. 2, 2014

We have lived together, and we have been neighbors twice. Beyond that, Crystal and I have also maintained a solid and meaningful friendship for the past nine years. That makes Crystal my longest, most consistent friend. Crystal, like me, comes from a family of three sisters, so it makes sense that we both don't require a lot of female friends outside of our dramatic (and fun!) sister circles.

When we met many years ago we were quite different. She was way punk rock, and I was a cheerleader trying to fit into her crowd now and again. We eventually fell in love over our passions for writing, rum, horror movies, talking and overall being ridiculous teenagers. Today, I found myself sitting at the foot of her hospital bed, staring lovingly as her sleeping newborn laid nested in my arms. There is nothing like the birth of your best friend's baby to stir up your nerves and emotions.

Waiting impatiently as Violet's mother brought her into this world, I began to ruminate on my personal birth experience (once again). Charlotte was less than eight pounds a little over seven months ago. However, it seems like a lifetime ago. She was only bite-size for a quick glimpse of time. Now she is sitting, waving, talking, crawling, eating solid foods . . . Cha is ready to take over the world.

I remember laying in my hospital bed, following our countless visits by family, friends and nurses. Charlotte was beside me in the baby cradle, while Josh was passed out on the pull-out. Awake, alert and calm at only a couple hours old, she was sucking on her hand and staring back at me. I couldn't help but smile, noticing how much she resembled a newborn picture I had always cherished of myself that I found in my parents' old pictures.

. . . . . . . . .

Congratulations to my close friends on the arrival of their sweet baby girl. Violet is not only the light of your lives . . . every morning you wake up next to her will be a euphoric testament to the commitment and love that you as a couple has had for almost a decade. 

Baby Milestones — Crawling is Officially Here

This seven-month-old baby is on the go!

Will you forgive me for my absence? It has been over a week since my little monster started crawling, and that was only the beginning. The milestone of crawling was accompanied by pulling herself up to stand . . . and climb! Did I mention she has five teeth broken through and one on its way?

Back to the crawling . . . The confidence, strength and coordination finally aligned, allowing Charlotte the freedom of mobility. She is beyond happy to be crawling, which has brought with it a determination that knows no bounds! Now that crawling across the living room is yesterday's news, my daughter has set her sights on walking. This causes her to try and stand-up all the time—before she falls asleep while nursing, in a high chair, mid-crawling, etc.

A couple nights following her big crawling debut, Charlotte's dad tried to teach her how to clap. It was really sweet. He spent 20 minutes sitting in front her demonstrating how to clap, and then he would physically prompt her to mimic his actions. The next morning, Charlotte and I headed over to grandma's house for a daytime visit. I sat her down in the middle of the carpet to roam free. As soon as I turned around, my mother said, "Oh look, she's clapping!" Of course, when I turned around she had stopped. After a couple more times of missing her clapping, I finally caught a glimpse of her excited little hands barely hitting each other. When I sent her dad a quick video of her clapping, he was proud of his little girl.

Milestones are exciting when you reach them one at a time. When you watch as your baby develops rapidly before your eyes, you can't help but feel grateful for having each special moment. Put down your cell phone, and be present with your little one. They seem to grow with every blink of your eye.

Welcome Baby Violet — Family's First Photo Shoot

Ten days ago, my good friends welcomed a healthy eight-pound baby girl named Violet into their family. I am so grateful to have another calm, beautiful, sweet and tiny person in my life. We decided to head to the nearest park in our neighborhood to take their first family photographs today. Check out my favorites below!