Tag Archives: daughter

Haute Mom: Kayla Carrie

May 6, 2016 Aubrey Leave a comment

Name: Kayla Carrie
Children & Ages: Olivia (22 mos.) & Hudson (10 mos.)
Hometown/Current Location: Idaho
Quick Bio: Less than two years ago my first child came into this world! I quickly realized that being a mother was everything to me, so I dropped all my other plans and made the decision to proudly accept the best job offer ever as “Stay at Home Mom”. I did so well on the job that I received a promotion! Two weeks after my daughter’s first birthday my sweet boy joined our party! I get plenty of comments and stares as I venture out with these two cuties… with a smile on my face I embrace it! I love finding the happiness in this messy mommy life!

Blog: www.goofsngiggles.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goofsngiggles/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goofsngiggles/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/goofsngiggles/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/goofsngiggles/

Q: How do you balance being a Mommy and keeping your sense of self?
A: Definitely connecting with other moms! Talking with other adults makes me feel like a person again. I may not always get time to myself but listening and talking about the beauties and difficulties of motherhood really helps me to stay sane and positive about motherhood. Thanks friends 😉

Q: What is your favorite piece of advice to new Moms?
A: Do not fall for our culture’s lies about a mom’s worth! Your worth is not dependent on how much you can accomplish in a day or how put together your life seems. Your worth never changes! Each mother and child has infinite worth! Take your time and enjoy each small moment with your children. Embrace the mess and the lack of “accomplishment” you may feel as a mom. If you can avoid this trap your children will never have to question their worth either!

Q: As a Mommy what is it that you feel you do “right”?
A: I am really good at saying “I’m sorry”. I am the first to admit that I make LOTS of mommy (and wife) mistakes but I am also quick to recognize them and make amends. I hope my example teaches my kids that it is perfectly okay to not be perfect!

Q: What is your “go to” snack/toy/show/trick when your kids start to fuss?
A: The best thing I can do when my 22 month old daughter starts to tantrum is to give her a chore. She LOVES to help! I think kids do really well when they feel they can contribute and have some kind of control in their life.

Q: Share something you have learned about yourself since you became a Mom.
A: That being a mom is the most important thing I will ever do. That I can’t do it alone. That God loves me and will help me know how to take care of these beautiful children.

Mommy 101

My Friend’s Child has Cancer…and it Hurts

May 4, 2016 Aubrey 3 Comments

Bad things happen to good people. What do you say when you find out a friend has been given a cancer diagnosis for her baby daughter? What can you do? How is it supposed to feel? These are questions that have been swirling in my head, ever since finding out my friend’s daughter is sick. I saw the Facebook post asking for prayers and I saw that they were (checked in) at a children’s hospital, and I knew something was very wrong. But, just the day before I saw the cute photo of her little girl playfully enjoying a sweet dessert, while out with the family.

All those quotes and sayings of how quickly life can take a turn and change for better (or worse), or that life is a gift and you only live once…

When I eventually got word of what had happened to turn their world upside down, I was speechless. They had to see a pediatric oncologist, that’s all I needed to hear. I believe that I am a good friend to a lot of people and I want to be the friend who is always available to lend an ear, a hand or a shoulder to cry on, but for the first time I didn’t know quite what to say. I kept my response brief, letting her know that I am thinking of her and her family, they are in my prayers and should they need anything, I am here.

Thankfully, they are loved with a huge network of family and friends, there is no shortage of prayers, support or well-wishes, and I am simply in awe of their composure, bravery and grace in what will be a very emotional and tough road ahead. However, there’s still a feeling inside me that wishes there was more I can do, instead of simply being inspired by their display of positivity and faith… And so, I decided I would write a letter to my friend and share it here on my blog.

Dear Anna,

My heart goes out to you and your family. I keep sitting here and thinking how difficult it must be, to learn your newly turned 2 daughter has tumors in her body. I remember when you prayed for her and you were doubtful you would be able to have a second child, and now here you are with 3, still on maternity leave from the birth of your third blessing.

You have always inspired me in ways you probably never knew. I’m so glad to have met you in college, not only do we share the same cultural background, but we pursued the same major and have remained good friends to this day. From traveling together to setting out on this journey of life, finding work in different states, we’ve always managed to only be a phone call away. We have shared so many good times together, a few not so good too, but what stands out to me is your smile, your infectious personality and positive attitude. I have witnessed you working hard to create a career for yourself, persevering to be with the love of your life and now fighting to have the family you always wanted.

I think it’s a combination of the fact that I am a fellow mommy, but also that you are a special friend to me. My heart is broken, I’m hurting for you and your little girl. I can’t begin to imagine the range of emotions you feel, and the countless thoughts crossing your mind, heart and spirit. And I know now is not the time for you to comfort anyone else…

I promise to keep your baby and your family in my prayers. I will send texts of support. I will like, love and comment on posts, because I know you and your husband say it’s those little things that mean so much. I will listen if you need my ear.

But you must know that even in this short time that everything has happened and while you and your family continue to process the tremendous weight that’s been placed on your shoulders, I am already learning so much from you. Cherish your loved ones. Enjoy each moment we share with our children. Be brave, don’t be afraid to ask for prayers, support and love, that it’s okay to let others know what you’re going through.

I know that God is on your side. You are so strong and you need me to be strong too. Know that you are loved and you have a prayer warrior in me. Love you girl.

xoxo

Aubrey Anne

Mommy 101

10 Tips for Celebrating When Your Baby Turns ONE!

April 1, 2016 Aubrey 3 Comments

A guest post written for 53 Weeks.

Your baby is turning 1!!! It’s time to enjoy and celebrate this major milestone! Here are 10 tips that helped this mama out!

Pick a theme

Picking a theme can be fun and it helps you stay focused and helps organize the direction of the party.

We decided to go with an “Alice in Wonderland” theme. My daughter has an adventurous spirit and is full on wonder so it was a natural choice for us!

Ready, set, shop!

Now that you have your theme, it’s time to set a budget. Remembering that in the end it isn’t how expensive your party is but how memorable and fun it was for everyone.

The first place to start for me was shopping online at party supply sites. They have great deals and so much to choose from! From there check out your local dollar store. It’s amazing what you can find for a $1! I headed to a local wholesale lantern store to purchase all the colorful lanterns that we hung from the ceiling. I ordered most party supplies on Black Friday and took advantage of the discounts. If there is a holiday coming up take advantage of the savings!

Guest list

Make a list and check it twice! You’ll need to know how many people you want to invite in order to plan successfully. This will help you decide on location, budget and overall work. Surround that little one with loved ones who have made the year so special! It takes a village, right?

We decided to invite about 75 people. Below is our group shot (blurred to respect privacy).

Location, location, location

Now where to have the bday bash? Keep weather in mind – not so fun having a jumpy house outside if it’s raining. Can you accommodate all guests in your home? Is a restaurant more your style and letting staff handle the set up & clean up?

We decided on a recreation center. The blank space allowed us to decorate freely and there were no time restraints which allowed us to enjoy the party without watching the clock.

What’s on the menu?

Try to be creative and work with your theme. Also, keep in mind how convenient it will all be. No one wants to be stuck in the kitchen during their child’s party.

We decided on sandwiches which were individually wrapped with salads as sides. This made it easy for all and allowed many variations and choices. Best of all – no one is heating anything up or running around. For the cake, I decided on going with cupcakes which are very convenient. No cutting, no passing out, no mess. I purchased a cupcake stand on amazon for presentation. Our daughter, of course, had her individual smash cake. I was able to find a cute cake topper on Etsy.

Planning ahead will help you stay sane (kinda).

A first birthday is a big deal and one may feel the pressure to have it all be great. But now that you’re a mom, who has the time to be Martha Stewart? I started planning about two months prior. The time also allows for extra creativity and DIY projects. I shopped online, made calls and completed projects all during my daughter’s naps.

Dress the part!

Get your guests involved and make everyone feel like they are part of the fun! Children love to see fantasy come to life.

We offered our guests their pick of hats as they walked into the party. Hats were purchased from a party supply store. Some of us wore costumes and had a blast! Our mini Alice looked adorable in her light blue tutu!

Gotta entertain the littles.

Try estimating how many children will be coming to the party and their ages. Kids want to enjoy themselves and be a part of the theme via games and activities.

I purchased a corn hole game and covered it with green fabric and glued some flowers on it. My husband printed out posters at work. We also printed out some coloring pages for the younger kids. We also hired someone to face paint and hand out balloons.

DIY with Love.

Crafty? Time to put your skills to work. Not crafty? Recruit friends and fam who are. Or now will be the time to become great friends with Pinterest and DIY tutorials on YouTube. Why DIY? Because sometimes you just can’t find what you want or need in a store. It can also be great way to save money.

For me, I enjoy DIY projects because I’m taking the time to do something out of love. Some DIYs I made were garland made out of dollar store playing cards, Queen’s guardsman which were made from dollar store poster board and construction paper and our table runners were also made by simply purchasing some fabric and sewing the sides. I also had some items which included pictures of her first year.

Have fun!

When all is said and done…ENJOY this special day! In the end it isn’t about the décor, it’s about celebrating their sweet life. A year has gone by and it probably all happened in the blink of an eye (despite the sleepless nights). So take it all in, these moments go by way too fast. Remember to take lots of pictures so your little one can look back on the celebration! Congrats you made it! Happy Birthday little one!

Haute Moms

Haute Mom: Brittany Kelley

March 18, 2016 Aubrey Leave a comment

Name: Brittany Kelley
Child & Age: Connor, 17 Months
Hometown/Current Location: Los Angeles, California
Quick Bio: I’m a wife, mother, help desk technician, and Blogger. Born & raised in one of the most beautiful places, Southern California, has given me a multicultural outlook on life and an affinity for art, food, traveling & family (which I feature on my blog, www.livinglifekelley.com & Instagram @livinglifekelley). I have a B.S. degree in Information Systems Security but currently majoring in Motherhood! A sisterhood & journey I wasn’t sure I would be apart of one day, but now I can’t see my life any other way! I was a stay at home mom for the first 15 months of my daughter’s life, so I have recently embarked on a new chapter as a working mom. Although my #1 (& most fullfulling) job is being a mom, it’s been fun re-discovering myself in the work force and getting back to exploring my career dreams.

Q: What is your “go to” snack/toy/show/trick when your kids start to fuss?
A: Singing! My daughter loves to sing and dance so when she gets cranky I like putting on a little show for her. It almost immediately changes her demeanor and is a great stress reliever for both of us to let our hair down a little and have some fun! 🙂

Q: How do you balance being a Mommy and keeping your sense of self?
A: This is a tough one for new moms that I think I only recently started to master. When you’re breastfeeding (I did for 16 months) and/or a SAHM (stay at home mom) it’s definitely harder to do. But what has helped me is finding at least one hour a day for me time. Before I returned to work I would intentionally stay up later (after my daughter was in bed) just to have some time to catch up on some reading or (more often) one of my favorite shows, or to get some QT with hubby. It’s also been healthy having time away from my daughter to go on regular date nights or so that she can spend quality time with her grandparents, cousins, and other family.

Q: How would you describe your parenting style?
A: I like to “think outside of the box” so this definitely affects my parenting style. I am known for being very patient with my daughter and I believe in allowing her to explore things and places around her. I can already tell that in many ways she very observant and has an analytically mind (like me) and I like to cultivate that. As long something is not harmful to her, I try to let her explore or learn about it. I also try to follow her lead in a lot of ways too and don’t believe in forcing her into situations (or with people) she is not comfortable with (within reason).

Q: What’s your most memorable Mommy moment to date?
A: My most memorable mommy moment(s) to date have definitely been breastfeeding my daughter! It’s is one of the proudest badges of honor I have worn as a mother because it was at times so challenging! Yet it was one of the MOST fulfilling things I have ever done for someone else. As result, we have such a bond, and I know that I gave her my very best throughout her 1st year. She is very independent, smart & happy toddler and I know that that was a big contributing factor for us.

Q: Describe your “Haute Mom” (fashion) style!
A: LOL! My style is definitely evolving at the moment! I really just like to keep it simple, comfortable & classy! I feel like I’m just starting to get my style groove back since having my daughter. I’m currently really into statement necklaces and lipstick and find that they are easy ways to dress up an outfit. So my (self-imposed) uniform unusually consists of a neutral top, jeans, cute & comfortable flats or wedges & a popping necklace and lipstick. Violá!

Haute Moms

Haute Mom: Sarah Harmsen

February 26, 2016 Aubrey 2 Comments

Name: Sarah Harmsen
Child & Age: Evelyn (20 months old)
Hometown/Current Location: Madison, WI
Quick Bio: I’m Sarah, a lifestyle blogger living in southern Wisconsin. My heart is happiest when I feel at home. I’m a mother, a wife, a planner and creator. I love turning spaces into places of comfort and elevating everyday experiences into something special. I graduated with a Journalism degree from the University of Wisconsin and made a career out of planning events. After having my beautiful daughter Evelyn Louise, I quickly realized balancing work and motherhood is quite the challenge, but one that makes life so rich and rewarding. Motivated by my desire to give Evie a beautiful childhood, I strive for balance between work and home and make the best of the time I do have with my family.

BLOG: www.sugarmaplenotes.com
INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/sugarmaplenotes
FACEBOOK: facebook.com/sugarmaplenotes
TWITTER: twitter.com/misssarahlouise
PINTEREST: pinterest.com/sugarmaplenotes
BLOGLOVIN: https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/sugar-maple-notes-14548083

Q: How do you balance being a Mommy and keeping your sense of self?
A: Being a mom is a huge part of who I am since having my daughter Evelyn. To me, there is not a “mom” version of myself and a “me” version of myself. It’s all the same. That being said, I do think it’s important to take time out to do things just for me. I have struggled with feeling guilt over this and I write more about how I’m working to change that in my blog post “A Fresh Start To A New Year”. This year, I’m focusing on my health, taking time out to read, and continuing on my blogging journey.

Q: What is your favorite piece of advice to new Moms?
A: Don’t be so hard on yourself. Becoming a mom is a learning process. It’s okay, if you don’t have it all figured out right away because things change daily. Once you think you have something figured out, your child is probably moving on to the next stage! Have fun with it and be flexible. Lean on the people around you for support and don’t compare yourself to other moms. We’re all in different situations.

Q: How would you describe your parenting style?
A: Teach by example. Kids are sponges and they soak up every little thing you do. I’ve been amazed now that my daughter is 20 months old how often I catch her mimicking me or her dad. It’s been eye opening. Just yesterday, I was building a fire in the fireplace and she came up beside me and starting crumpling newspaper and handing it to me and blowing her lips towards the fireplace, just like mom. I catch her watching me so intently, it’s important to remember that. That’s why I make sure my actions reflect what I want her to learn. Number one, I want her to grow up to be kind. She has a big heart already for such a little girl, and I want to make sure she knows how proud of her I am when she uses it.

Q: What’s your most memorable Mommy moment to date?
A: The day Evelyn was born. My family grew from two to three. Suddenly life wasn’t just about me, but about my family and baby who needs me to survive. That is a moment you can’t describe. It’s the beginning of a new kind of selfless love you only have for your child. Having a child forces you to slow down and enjoy the little things. Suddenly being home on the weekend, making breakfast and enjoying a cup a coffee in pajamas with your husband and baby is the best kind of day. And you’re perfectly happy with that.

Haute Moms

Haute Mom: Jessica Glaze

February 19, 2016 Aubrey Leave a comment

Name: Jessica Glaze
Children & Ages: Carter (4) & Monroe (2)
Hometown/Current Location: I grew up in Chicago but I call San Diego home. I moved to San Diego when I was 18 and lived there until our recent move to Toronto.
Quick Bio: I am a mom and a wife, and that is exactly what I want to be doing with my life right now. When I graduated high school, I moved to California for college. I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego. After that, I completed a Master’s Degree in Education with a credential in School Counseling. During that time in graduate school, I got married and knocked up, so I decided I wanted to put my family first and I never pursued a career in the school system.

I am married to a retired professional paintball player turned professional coach. We have two kids and we are a pretty awesome parenting team, if I do say so myself. As a family, we always keep our eyes towards Jesus.

Through all of my life experiences I have learned one thing and that is that my strongest asset is my independence. I was fiercely independent as a child and teenage, I really honed in on that skill when I left my friends and family and moved across the country alone. Now as a mom, I am a free range parent to my core, so that I can teach my kids the value of independence.

Through all of my life, I have always said there is one way to describe my personality and that is through Robert Frost’s poem The Road Not Taken.

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

Keep up with Jessica on her blog at http://theglazebrigade.com/

Instagram: Instagram.com/jessicaglaze

Facebook: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jglazephotography

Twitter: Twitter.com/Jess_Glaze

Pinterest: Pinterest.com/JessicaGlaze

Q: How do you balance being a Mommy and keeping your sense of self?
A: I married a really amazing man that doesn’t even flinch when I tell him I have plans or when I hand him the kids and say, “make yourself some spaghetti,” before walking out the door. This makes it really easy for me to have a girls night out or just go to the mall alone. I am sure to not take advantage and I also exchange him the same courtesy when he needs time with friends. He is also super supportive of my blog and my desire to be a social media influencer and that is where I really get to spend time doing something for myself.

Q: What is your favorite piece of advice to new Moms?
A: Ditch 1,2,3 magic. When your child is running to the street, do you want them to stop when you say “stop” or when you say “3”? Your children need to listen to you the first time you make a request of them and 1,2,3 magic tells them they have 2 chances to disobey before they have to listen.

Q: How would you describe your parenting style?
A: I am a crunchy, free range, strict, God fearing mama and I wear that badge with honor.

Q: What’s your most memorable Mommy moment to date? A
A: I once started loading my groceries into someone else’s car on accident and the owners of the car walked up behind me at the exact moment I realized it was the wrong car! I was mortified and I apologized a million times before I walked away!

Q: As a Mommy what is it that you feel you do “right”?
A: I feel that staying home with my kids and being available to them 24/7 is the thing that I do right.

Haute Moms

Haute Mom: Nicole Rodrigues

February 11, 2016 Aubrey Leave a comment

Name: Nicole Rodrigues
Child & Age: 1 Daughter, age 14
Hometown/Current Location: Beverly Hills, CA
Quick Bio: I’m the CEO and founder of NRPR Group, the premier public relations and strategic positioning agency in Beverly Hills, California. More importantly, I’m the mother of a beautiful teenage daughter. I’ve been working in PR for more than 15 years, starting my first job straight out of San Jose State University. I always knew I wanted to start my own firm, so I spent those years mastering every level of PR so I would be ready when the time came. It wasn’t easy being a young mom–fighting to be recognized and stand out in the industry–but having my daughter motivated me to work harder than I ever thought possible to give her the future I knew she deserved.

A little more than a year and a half ago I launched NRPR Group and I couldn’t be more proud of how far it has come in such a short time!

More about me, connect on Twitter @NicoleRPR Instagram @NicoleRPR or via LinkedIn

Find NRPR Group: Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest Blog

Q: What is your “go to” snack/toy/show/trick when your kids start to fuss?
A: When my daughter was little I used to literally get in the car and put on classic rock music. Billy Joel, Journey, Barry Manilow. Sounds crazy, but it worked to keep her calm and she still loves classic rock to this day.

Q: How do you balance being a Mommy and keeping your sense of self?
A: I never stopped being myself. When you’re a mom, you don’t change your personality. You may change habits, you may get rid of bad habits (we hope), you may be more responsible, but at the core of who you are, I don’t believe you have to change. I never did. I still work hard. I do the things I like to do. I involve my daughter in as much of my life as possible and I show her that living my dream has been possible through hard work. Being a parent never stopped that from happening.

Q: What is your favorite piece of advice to new Moms?
A: Give your kids proper discipline and structure from day one. If you let them run all over you as small children, there’s no way you will be able to discipline them when they need it as teenagers. I’ve never had to lay a hand on my child and she is respectful to me. Why? She knows exactly who’s boss by the way I speak to her and carry myself. I didn’t let her throw massive fits as a kid and I gave her as much structure as I could. Kids need it or they will not be responsible adults or responsible teenagers.

Q: How do you incorporate fitness into your daily routine?
A: The second the doctor said I was in the clear to work out, I hit the gym 8 weeks after having my daughter. My body never changed because I didn’t let ‘having a baby’ be an excuse for not being in good shape. I worked out enough to even be a professional cheerleader in the NFL after having a child. Years later, I’m still the same size. Fitness and eating healthy is just part of my lifestyle. Always has been.

Q: How would you describe your parenting style?
A: Firm, fun and flexible. I am strict but my daughter and I have loads of fun together. I listen to her and hear her out when I need to and am open to being flexible in times even I see I’m being too firm. I’m also VERY reliable. I show up for my daughter in more ways than one. I help with schoolwork and I’m there when she needs a shoulder to cry on. She is a priority – even when I’m busy.

Q: Share your best or favorite place for a family vacation and tell us why.
A: Hawaii. My dad’s side of the family is there and each time I’ve gone with my daughter we hit the beach and have a blast.

Q: What’s your most memorable Mommy moment to date?
A: So many! It may be when my daughter worked really hard to get the lead in her school play, and I opened the program for the play on opening night to read her note that said something along the lines of “Thank you mom for showing me I can achieve my dreams.” I knew at that moment, I was raising her right and showing her the path to the greatness I know she’ll continue to achieve in the future. It’s nice when your kids acknowledge that the hard work you’ve been putting in over the years is paying off.

Q: As a Mommy what is it that you feel you do “right”?
A: I totally lead by example and I do that right. I work hard. I set goals. I achieve them. She now does the same and is an awesome teenager because of it.

Q: Share something you have learned about yourself since you became a Mom.
A: I learned it is possible to create amazing human beings by simply living right, making right choices, having self-discipline and showing your kids you can do the same. Too many parents take child raising for granted and think the kids should ‘figure homework and life’s problems’ out on their own. No. You have to be there for them. Help them in any way you can or help them seek help when they need it. If more parents took action that way, there would be less crime and less kids wondering whether or not they’re loved.

Q: Describe your “Haute Mom” (fashion) style!
A: I love a good blowout on my hair and a sleek black outfit with gold jewelry! Can’t forget the black heels. Black is my signature color. A hint of red never hurts either. Of course, makeup is on point when I’m dressed up. Dressed down, I’m a Lululemon/Nike wearing, comfy outfit mom.

Q: What’s the best surprise you’ve ever done for your kids/family?
A: Surprised my daughter with a trip to New York to see the Thanksgiving Day parade. I took a week off just to spend it on the east coast with her. We saw Mama Mia, walked around Time Square, ate at fancy restaurants and had a blast.

Haute Moms

Haute Mom: Jasmin Mohib

February 4, 2016 Aubrey Leave a comment

Name: Jasmin Mohib
Children & Ages: Amir Mohib- 4 Mahnaz Mohib- 5
Hometown/Current Location: Alameda, CA
Quick Bio: My “day” job is as a QA Tech for an outdoor clothing company in the Bay Area. I also model, dance (former Oakland Raiderette), serve as a brand ambassador/spokesmodel and face of FancyHair.co, plus I sing — currently recording an album. Soon, I will also launch my own business that consists of helping people achieve their dreams using various strategies. I am honored to be a board member of an organization called “WeAreSuperMoms” which helps empower Moms, and serves as a huge support group for Moms in the community.

I am a divorced mom of two (a boy and girl) ages 4&5. My ex-husband and I have been very successful at co-parenting and helping each other out. We think it is very important to maintain a friendship to make things smoother for our children.

You can connect with me on Instagram @officiallyjasmin or on Twitter: @nimsaj143

Q: What is your “go to” snack/toy/show/trick when your kids start to fuss?
A: When my children start to fuss my “go to” is entertaining them and letting them get loose, or get them laughing (it is also great for me because I relieve some stress too). I know how to juggle so they instantly forget what they are “upset” about when mommy starts juggling. My second is what I call dance party. I turn up the music (usually when they are in mid-fuss lol) and announce its dance party time. I lower the lights and put on one of those disco ball lighting and we dance all over. They get to release that tension and the laughter and dance moves are priceless memories I will forever cherish.

Q: How do you balance being a Mommy and keeping your sense of self?
A: When I first became a Mommy I lost my sense of self. I had really bad post-partum too. What helped me change was really seeing my children noticing me. No matter what I am doing they will be watching me and learning from me. This is when I immediately woke up and went about changing my life, so I can show them by example, what I want for them. I am not a stranger to going after my dreams and I expect them to follow suit. I became more confident and it motivated me to go after everything I want because that is what I want for them. I began deleting things that may be an image of me settling for less, because I would be heartbroken if my children settled for anything. As a Mom you have to lead by example at all times (and own your mistakes too bc we are human first). My example for them (I hope) is a mother who has a strong sense of self but knows she will consistently be learning about herself too. I love it when they see me in fear or nervousness but also seeing that I will not allow that to stop me from going forward.

Q: What is your favorite piece of advice to new Moms?
A: The best advice to new Moms is you have to make sure your cup is full before you try to care for others. Take care of yourself first! For example, you need to eat in order for your children to get the best nutrients out of the breast milk, you need to sleep in order to best take care of your children. You need to do things that bring you joy and happiness so that you’ll be positive in the interactions with your children.

Q: Share something you have learned about yourself since you became a Mom.
A: Something I have learned about myself becoming a Mom is that I am more of a “MOM” then I thought I could be. The thought of becoming a mother was a horrifying thing for me (and a thing I can laugh at now). I was scared about the commitment of caring for a child forever (prob a hormonal thing). As soon as I had my babies I surprised myself by how many things just came naturally. Even more, every step of their lives that made them less dependent on me (first crawl, first steps, eating by themselves) made me sad like I was losing them. It is funny how the tables have turned.

Haute Moms

Haute Mom: Bon Crowder

January 21, 2016 Aubrey Leave a comment

Name: Bon Crowder

Children & Ages: Kate, 6 and John Hunter, 2

Hometown/Current Location: Houston, TX

Married to: Judson, a Certified Professional Organizer

Quick Bio: I’m a math mom and education fanatic. I’m an accidental math teacher but an intentional math blogger. I don’t love math, and I don’t much like the text book versions of it either. I just love empowering people. And I know that fear of math takes a huge hit to parents’ feelings of empowerment. Especially during homework time.

I blog at MathFour.com about math, parenting and the intersection of the two. I manage the Facebook Group “Empowering Parents to Tackle Math.” And I’m working on a series of courses for parents of 2nd graders to help them navigate the “new math.”

You can reach me via twitter or just about any other social media, with either MathFour or BonCrowder.

Q: What is your “go to” snack/toy/show/trick when your kids start to fuss?
A: Team Umizoomi. For some crazy reason my son’s addicted to it. And what mom can complain – it’s all about math!

Q: How do you balance being a Mommy and keeping your sense of self?
A: I blame the kids.

I’m clumsy, slightly sloppy and don’t know how to pick out clothes. That’s part of my identity. My own sense of self.

But grownups don’t think that’s cool. So I’ll often blame my clumsiness on “mom brain.” I blame my sloppiness on some kid who spilled or puked on me. And I blame my bad clothes on lack of time because I’m a mom.

So being a mommy supports my sense of self.

Q: What is your favorite piece of advice to new Moms?
A: My FAVORITE piece of advice is “don’t eat them today because you won’t be able to chew on them tomorrow.”

My BEST piece of advice is to ignore everyone’s unsolicited advice. And you can even ignore some solicited advice if you don’t like it.

Q: How do you incorporate fitness into your daily routine?
A: When I was working away from home, I ran to work. It takes some planning, but it’s great fun (and people think you’re pretty bad-@$$). I’m currently on a crazy-stupid medical weight loss program, so I don’t get much in the way of fitness. When I transition back to “real food” in a couple of months, I’ll be able to hit the road again. I’ve made it a goal to finish the Houston Marathon in January 2017.

Q: How would you describe your parenting style?
A: Lazy.

I’m one of the last of my peers to have kids. I’ve learned a lot from their successes and failures. One of the big things is to not sweat the small stuff. Or at least choose carefully the small stuff that you want to sweat. (Mine is sticky – I HATE sticky. Everything else is fine. Even rabid dogs and open swimming pools.)

Q: Share your best or favorite place for a family vacation and tell us why.
A: We love going on the generations-long tradition of vacationing at the Frio River (a cold river in Texas). The best part is that there’re so many other kids that if yours is lost, she’s probably lost with three of her cousins. And who would bother to kidnap a motley crew like that?

Q: What’s your most memorable Mommy moment to date?
A: It’s hard to put a finger on the MOST memorable one. Some that come to mind are:

A kid pooping on the living room floor
A kid smiling in her crib, covered in poop
A lost cloth diaper with baby flies enjoying the poop (yes, it happened)
The perfectly spherical meconium coming from a newborn’s bottom

Hmm… seems like all my memorable mommy moments revolve around poop. I think that’s Freudian or something…

Q: As a Mommy what is it that you feel you do “right”?
A: Use big words and teach polite behavior.

The sentence “I love my mommy” has five syllables. So does the sentence, “I need assistance.” To a small child, these are equivalent. So I make sure to use as many “two-bit” words as I can. Kids can learn their meanings just as easily as the short ones.

My son’s first words were “Thank you.” No kidding. At two, he says it independently when someone helps him.

With the 6yo, we’re practicing eye contact when you say thanks.

And both of them are required to say “Yes/no ma’am” and “Yes/no sir.” And I’m vigilant about it. Almost to the annoyance of other grownups.

Q: Share something you have learned about yourself since you became a Mom.
A: I’m territorial. Like crazy territorial. This is not new. What IS new since becoming a mom is that I’m okay with sharing that territory with my kids. At least most of it.

I don’t freak when the girl uses my makeup. And I’m not really bothered when either kid pukes on my favorite blouse. It’s just part of the fun.

Q: Describe your “Haute Mom” (fashion) style!
A: I love hand-me-downs and resale shops. I wear my blazer sleeves rolled up. And I always wear something “mathy.”

I prefer wearing my boots or my clod-hoppers (waterproof work boots) because they accentuate my swagger. And I always wear my cowboy hat to conferences.

Lipstick is my weakness. I don’t pay more than $10 for any piece of clothing, but I won’t hesitate to pay $100 for a tube of lipstick. (I haven’t yet, but totally will if given the chance!)

Haute Moms

Haute Mom: Mim Jenkinson

January 15, 2016 Aubrey 1 Comment

Name: Mim Jenkinson
Children & Ages: 2 year old daughter and baby son.
Hometown/Current Location: Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.
Quick Bio: I’m a 30-something Brit living in Australia and a mother of a 2 year old little girl and a baby boy. I’m an advocate of hypnobirthing, positive thinking and laughing at myself and I’m pretty much making up parenting as I go along. In November 2015 I was annoyingly diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer and after a successful lumpectomy, I’m currently undergoing chemotherapy. Professionally, my career spans creative and business writing, social media management, project and event management, marketing and coaching. Want to work with me? Find out more here.

I started writing Love from Mim in 2013 on my first maternity leave but more consistently when pregnant with my second baby. It’s a place for my parenting, pregnancy, travel and home ideas and inspiration. You can get in touch with me by emailing mim@mamamim.com

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/lovefrommim
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lovefrommim
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lovefrommim
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lovefrommim
Google+: https://plus.google.com/+Mamamimblog
LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/mimjenkinson

Q: What is your “go to” snack/toy/show/trick when your kids start to fuss?
A: Banana and grapes – works every time for my 2 year old. Luckily she eats everything and thanks to baby led weaning with her, she chooses fruit and vegetables over the unhealthy stuff every time. If that fails, we put Frozen on for the millionth time.

Q: How do you balance being a Mommy and keeping your sense of self?
A: I have very little ‘me time’ but I make the most of every moment I have on my own – which is generally when the babies are sleeping. My life has changed in many ways. I’m a Mummy now, every second of every day and I love it. That said, I haven’t lost all of the ‘old me’ and I still love catching up with friends, laughing as much as possible and I write every day. Blogging has given me a wonderful outlet to write about whatever I want and absolutely helps me stay ‘me’. Country music is also my passion (mainly at karaoke) and listening to that in between the nursery rhymes help a lot too!

Q: What is your favorite piece of advice to new Moms?
A: Be kind to yourself – Parenting is hard, really hard at times. It’s beautifully rewarding too but there might be times you feel like you’re just ‘not getting it’. Ask for help if you need it, especially in the early days when a 30 minutes sleep might just do the trick in revitalising you. Never be afraid or too proud to ask for advice.

Q: Share your best or favorite place for a family vacation and tell us why.
A: We’re so lucky to live in beautiful New South Wales in Australia. We’re surrounded by amazing beaches within very easy reach and we’re only a couple of hours from Sydney. Australia is a great place to raise children with a big focus on being active and outdoors and we’re spoiled for choice with beaches, parks, walks, zoos and more.

Q: What’s your most memorable Mommy moment to date?
A: Giving birth to my beautiful babies via hypnobirthing. I felt completely in tune with my body and their arrival and on both occasions was a truly calm, peaceful and magical experience. At the start of my pregnancy I was terrified of childbirth but studying and practicing hypnobirthing changed my life.

Q: Share something you have learned about yourself since you became a Mom.
A: I can survive on very very little sleep. Very little!

…and 2 babies later