Hello, friends! Here's a little bit about life right now:
My glasses and a baby.
Besides wearing the baby and my glasses, I can be found in sweatpants or leggings and a sweater almost every single day. It's pretty glamorous!
I keep telling myself that I'm not going to make everything about the baby. But the truth is, the baby is an all consuming part of my life at the moment. He and I spend most of every single day together, to the exclusion of everything else. Other than groceries, the only stuff I buy is for the baby. Hopefully I'll get back to buying fun things like art supplies soon…but until then: We are meeting my brother, his partner, and their brand new baby in Hawaii in a few weeks, so I just ordered this:
It's a pop-up tent to protect the baby when we're outside at the beach or pool. I have to confess that I'm insanely nervous about flying with an infant. If you have any tips, I'd love to hear them!
My Mom subscribes to a magazine that I looooove. It's called Old House Journal.
If you love old houses, this magazine is for you. From home tours to DIY instructions, this magazine has it all! I read the most recent issue from cover-to-cover on Sunday. What a treat!
Current art crush?
I have been following @bookhou on instagram for several years. She makes wonderful things. And has a lovely online shop stocked with lots of goodies including super cool bags and pouches made from handprinted fabric. She also just released a Punch Needle book. (On a side note, I bought a Punch Needle kit like three years ago. I really need to take it out of the drawer and give it a try!) She does a great job staging her photos. They are works of art in themselves. Check it out:
I love the variety in her work: stamping, sewing, papercrafts, punch needle, watercolor painting, and more!
So, there you have it! That's the scoop on life around here at the moment. Thanks for stopping by!
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P.S. Today is the last day to get the Early Bird pricing of $50 for Creative Jumpstart!
Hi! I always enjoy your posts and art. This may come as a surprise, but after a baby, it’s now all about the baby all the time, from now on. I called the change, my life before kids, and my life after kids, and they were never the same. It’s really hard. Exhausting but also wonderful. Difficult to carve time out for yourself. You’ll eventually learn to work with the baby, but you’ll give up a lot of things too. But the baby can go everywhere with you. I had people telling to leave the art museum when my baby cried, sorry – I have a right to be there just like you. I paid for my ticket too.
As for the plane trip, have the baby nurse/drink from the bottle during take off and landing. This will help equalize the ear pressure. Also, during take off and landing, gently press with your finger on the little arch of cartilage in front of the ear, sealing the ear canal, and wiggle and press firmly; this creates a seal and some pressure to help equalize the air pressure in the ear canal, especially as the pressure changes as you change altitude. Do this on both ears, over and over, during the entire process of changing altitude at take off and landing. When babies / kids are older, they can do this by sucking liquid through a straw, sucking on a mint, chewing gum, yawning repeatedly really widely, or pinching their nose closed and blowing air against a closed mouth which forces air into the eustachian tubes, thereby equalizing the pressure. I think not pressing on the outside of the ear to equalize the pressure is the number one cause of babies / kids crying at take off and landing. Bring plenty of diapers and water. Be prepared for delays. Keep the baby well covered up in Hawaii – you definitely don’t want a sun burn on him. Also my seat mate on the plane put up the arm rest to “help” me when I got on the plane, even though I never asked for that and didn’t need it up. When it came down, it pinched my baby’s finger, so be careful of that.
Hi! I always enjoy your posts and art. This may come as a surprise, but after a baby, it’s now all about the baby all the time, from now on. I called the change, my life before kids, and my life after kids, and they were never the same. It’s really hard. Exhausting but also wonderful. Difficult to carve time out for yourself. You’ll eventually learn to work with the baby, but you’ll give up a lot of things too. But the baby can go everywhere with you. I had people telling to leave the art museum when my baby cried, sorry – I have a right to be there just like you. I paid for my ticket too.
As for the plane trip, have the baby nurse/drink from the bottle during take off and landing. This will help equalize the ear pressure. Also, during take off and landing, gently press with your finger on the little arch of cartilage in front of the ear, sealing the ear canal, and wiggle and press firmly; this creates a seal and some pressure to help equalize the air pressure in the ear canal, especially as the pressure changes as you change altitude. Do this on both ears, over and over, during the entire process of changing altitude at take off and landing. When babies / kids are older, they can do this by sucking liquid through a straw, sucking on a mint, chewing gum, yawning repeatedly really widely, or pinching their nose closed and blowing air against a closed mouth which forces air into the eustachian tubes, thereby equalizing the pressure. I think not pressing on the outside of the ear to equalize the pressure is the number one cause of babies / kids crying at take off and landing. Bring plenty of diapers and water. Be prepared for delays. Keep the baby well covered up in Hawaii – you definitely don’t want a sun burn on him. Also my seat mate on the plane put up the arm rest to “help” me when I got on the plane, even though I never asked for that and didn’t need it up. When it came down, it pinched my baby’s finger, so be careful of that.
Hi! I always enjoy your posts and art. This may come as a surprise, but after a baby, it’s now all about the baby all the time, from now on. I called the change, my life before kids, and my life after kids, and they were never the same. It’s really hard. Exhausting but also wonderful. Difficult to carve time out for yourself. You’ll eventually learn to work with the baby, but you’ll give up a lot of things too. But the baby can go everywhere with you. I had people telling to leave the art museum when my baby cried, sorry – I have a right to be there just like you. I paid for my ticket too.
As for the plane trip, have the baby nurse/drink from the bottle during take off and landing. This will help equalize the ear pressure. Also, during take off and landing, gently press with your finger on the little arch of cartilage in front of the ear, sealing the ear canal, and wiggle and press firmly; this creates a seal and some pressure to help equalize the air pressure in the ear canal, especially as the pressure changes as you change altitude. Do this on both ears, over and over, during the entire process of changing altitude at take off and landing. When babies / kids are older, they can do this by sucking liquid through a straw, sucking on a mint, chewing gum, yawning repeatedly really widely, or pinching their nose closed and blowing air against a closed mouth which forces air into the eustachian tubes, thereby equalizing the pressure. I think not pressing on the outside of the ear to equalize the pressure is the number one cause of babies / kids crying at take off and landing. Bring plenty of diapers and water. Be prepared for delays. Keep the baby well covered up in Hawaii – you definitely don’t want a sun burn on him. Also my seat mate on the plane put up the arm rest to “help” me when I got on the plane, even though I never asked for that and didn’t need it up. When it came down, it pinched my baby’s finger, so be careful of that.
Hi! I always enjoy your posts and art. This may come as a surprise, but after a baby, it’s now all about the baby all the time, from now on. I called the change, my life before kids, and my life after kids, and they were never the same. It’s really hard. Exhausting but also wonderful. Difficult to carve time out for yourself. You’ll eventually learn to work with the baby, but you’ll give up a lot of things too. But the baby can go everywhere with you. I had people telling to leave the art museum when my baby cried, sorry – I have a right to be there just like you. I paid for my ticket too.
As for the plane trip, have the baby nurse/drink from the bottle during take off and landing. This will help equalize the ear pressure. Also, during take off and landing, gently press with your finger on the little arch of cartilage in front of the ear, sealing the ear canal, and wiggle and press firmly; this creates a seal and some pressure to help equalize the air pressure in the ear canal, especially as the pressure changes as you change altitude. Do this on both ears, over and over, during the entire process of changing altitude at take off and landing. When babies / kids are older, they can do this by sucking liquid through a straw, sucking on a mint, chewing gum, yawning repeatedly really widely, or pinching their nose closed and blowing air against a closed mouth which forces air into the eustachian tubes, thereby equalizing the pressure. I think not pressing on the outside of the ear to equalize the pressure is the number one cause of babies / kids crying at take off and landing. Bring plenty of diapers and water. Be prepared for delays. Keep the baby well covered up in Hawaii – you definitely don’t want a sun burn on him. Also my seat mate on the plane put up the arm rest to “help” me when I got on the plane, even though I never asked for that and didn’t need it up. When it came down, it pinched my baby’s finger, so be careful of that.
Hi! I always enjoy your posts and art. This may come as a surprise, but after a baby, it’s now all about the baby all the time, from now on. I called the change, my life before kids, and my life after kids, and they were never the same. It’s really hard. Exhausting but also wonderful. Difficult to carve time out for yourself. You’ll eventually learn to work with the baby, but you’ll give up a lot of things too. But the baby can go everywhere with you. I had people telling to leave the art museum when my baby cried, sorry – I have a right to be there just like you. I paid for my ticket too.
As for the plane trip, have the baby nurse/drink from the bottle during take off and landing. This will help equalize the ear pressure. Also, during take off and landing, gently press with your finger on the little arch of cartilage in front of the ear, sealing the ear canal, and wiggle and press firmly; this creates a seal and some pressure to help equalize the air pressure in the ear canal, especially as the pressure changes as you change altitude. Do this on both ears, over and over, during the entire process of changing altitude at take off and landing. When babies / kids are older, they can do this by sucking liquid through a straw, sucking on a mint, chewing gum, yawning repeatedly really widely, or pinching their nose closed and blowing air against a closed mouth which forces air into the eustachian tubes, thereby equalizing the pressure. I think not pressing on the outside of the ear to equalize the pressure is the number one cause of babies / kids crying at take off and landing. Bring plenty of diapers and water. Be prepared for delays. Keep the baby well covered up in Hawaii – you definitely don’t want a sun burn on him. Also my seat mate on the plane put up the arm rest to “help” me when I got on the plane, even though I never asked for that and didn’t need it up. When it came down, it pinched my baby’s finger, so be careful of that.
Hi! I always enjoy your posts and art. This may come as a surprise, but after a baby, it’s now all about the baby all the time, from now on. I called the change, my life before kids, and my life after kids, and they were never the same. It’s really hard. Exhausting but also wonderful. Difficult to carve time out for yourself. You’ll eventually learn to work with the baby, but you’ll give up a lot of things too. But the baby can go everywhere with you. I had people telling to leave the art museum when my baby cried, sorry – I have a right to be there just like you. I paid for my ticket too.
As for the plane trip, have the baby nurse/drink from the bottle during take off and landing. This will help equalize the ear pressure. Also, during take off and landing, gently press with your finger on the little arch of cartilage in front of the ear, sealing the ear canal, and wiggle and press firmly; this creates a seal and some pressure to help equalize the air pressure in the ear canal, especially as the pressure changes as you change altitude. Do this on both ears, over and over, during the entire process of changing altitude at take off and landing. When babies / kids are older, they can do this by sucking liquid through a straw, sucking on a mint, chewing gum, yawning repeatedly really widely, or pinching their nose closed and blowing air against a closed mouth which forces air into the eustachian tubes, thereby equalizing the pressure. I think not pressing on the outside of the ear to equalize the pressure is the number one cause of babies / kids crying at take off and landing. Bring plenty of diapers and water. Be prepared for delays. Keep the baby well covered up in Hawaii – you definitely don’t want a sun burn on him. Also my seat mate on the plane put up the arm rest to “help” me when I got on the plane, even though I never asked for that and didn’t need it up. When it came down, it pinched my baby’s finger, so be careful of that.
Hi! I always enjoy your posts and art. This may come as a surprise, but after a baby, it’s now all about the baby all the time, from now on. I called the change, my life before kids, and my life after kids, and they were never the same. It’s really hard. Exhausting but also wonderful. Difficult to carve time out for yourself. You’ll eventually learn to work with the baby, but you’ll give up a lot of things too. But the baby can go everywhere with you. I had people telling to leave the art museum when my baby cried, sorry – I have a right to be there just like you. I paid for my ticket too.
As for the plane trip, have the baby nurse/drink from the bottle during take off and landing. This will help equalize the ear pressure. Also, during take off and landing, gently press with your finger on the little arch of cartilage in front of the ear, sealing the ear canal, and wiggle and press firmly; this creates a seal and some pressure to help equalize the air pressure in the ear canal, especially as the pressure changes as you change altitude. Do this on both ears, over and over, during the entire process of changing altitude at take off and landing. When babies / kids are older, they can do this by sucking liquid through a straw, sucking on a mint, chewing gum, yawning repeatedly really widely, or pinching their nose closed and blowing air against a closed mouth which forces air into the eustachian tubes, thereby equalizing the pressure. I think not pressing on the outside of the ear to equalize the pressure is the number one cause of babies / kids crying at take off and landing. Bring plenty of diapers and water. Be prepared for delays. Keep the baby well covered up in Hawaii – you definitely don’t want a sun burn on him. Also my seat mate on the plane put up the arm rest to “help” me when I got on the plane, even though I never asked for that and didn’t need it up. When it came down, it pinched my baby’s finger, so be careful of that.
I was going to give the same advice as Janet, although she has even more tips than I knew. I agree the baby takes up all your time right now, but as he gets into a sleep pattern you will have nap times free – make sure nap times are LONG! Once my children got a little bit older – a year or so – I told them, ‘nap time is an hour (or whatever you decide) here are some books to keep you occupied until it’s time to get up!” Worked a charm for me. Also, make sure he gets into the habit of an early bed time – I think there are so many cranky children around these days because their parents let them stay up till 9, 10 or even later. Children need sleep and you need time together with your partner. Bedtime can be 7pm, again I put books in the bed and told them they could read if they couldn’t fall asleep – by read I mean look at the books. My son got a life-long respect for classical music as I left him for bed with WFCR playing – when they turned to jazz in the evening he was horrified! Also, one of the most useful things I ever got were “reins” a sort of harness with a strap you hold and it allows the kid to walk independent of you but close. I was accused many times of having my child on a leash – stupid people! It gives the baby exercise and the opportunity to actually go towards something that interests him. It appalls me how many toddlers and older are pushed around in a pram – it stops them exercising, it takes away their independence and need for discovery – yes, sometimes it is a pain walking at toddler pace, but it is worth it. The reins (that’s what we called them in England, I’m not sure what they are called here) save the kids from face-plants as you sort of hold them up with the reins as they fall, they can’t suddenly dash off and fall off a cliff or trip an elderly person!! When they get a bit older, unhook one end of the strap and they have a wider perimeter but they are still safe. Just to put all this in context, I was born and raised in England so my ideas of child raising are “old fashioned” but they worked! My children are in their 30’s and are no more messed up than the average child with parents!! By the way, I’ve taken my two kids to Sydney from Connecticut, when they were 4 and 8. It took planning, careful toy purchases, colouring books and other distractions for 24 hours on the plane and another 6 or so hanging around airports, but it is possible. Hugs to you all on this amazing journey you will be going on through life – it’s never what you expect, and you will become the Mistress of Quick Thinking!
I was going to give the same advice as Janet, although she has even more tips than I knew. I agree the baby takes up all your time right now, but as he gets into a sleep pattern you will have nap times free – make sure nap times are LONG! Once my children got a little bit older – a year or so – I told them, ‘nap time is an hour (or whatever you decide) here are some books to keep you occupied until it’s time to get up!” Worked a charm for me. Also, make sure he gets into the habit of an early bed time – I think there are so many cranky children around these days because their parents let them stay up till 9, 10 or even later. Children need sleep and you need time together with your partner. Bedtime can be 7pm, again I put books in the bed and told them they could read if they couldn’t fall asleep – by read I mean look at the books. My son got a life-long respect for classical music as I left him for bed with WFCR playing – when they turned to jazz in the evening he was horrified! Also, one of the most useful things I ever got were “reins” a sort of harness with a strap you hold and it allows the kid to walk independent of you but close. I was accused many times of having my child on a leash – stupid people! It gives the baby exercise and the opportunity to actually go towards something that interests him. It appalls me how many toddlers and older are pushed around in a pram – it stops them exercising, it takes away their independence and need for discovery – yes, sometimes it is a pain walking at toddler pace, but it is worth it. The reins (that’s what we called them in England, I’m not sure what they are called here) save the kids from face-plants as you sort of hold them up with the reins as they fall, they can’t suddenly dash off and fall off a cliff or trip an elderly person!! When they get a bit older, unhook one end of the strap and they have a wider perimeter but they are still safe. Just to put all this in context, I was born and raised in England so my ideas of child raising are “old fashioned” but they worked! My children are in their 30’s and are no more messed up than the average child with parents!! By the way, I’ve taken my two kids to Sydney from Connecticut, when they were 4 and 8. It took planning, careful toy purchases, colouring books and other distractions for 24 hours on the plane and another 6 or so hanging around airports, but it is possible. Hugs to you all on this amazing journey you will be going on through life – it’s never what you expect, and you will become the Mistress of Quick Thinking!
I was going to give the same advice as Janet, although she has even more tips than I knew. I agree the baby takes up all your time right now, but as he gets into a sleep pattern you will have nap times free – make sure nap times are LONG! Once my children got a little bit older – a year or so – I told them, ‘nap time is an hour (or whatever you decide) here are some books to keep you occupied until it’s time to get up!” Worked a charm for me. Also, make sure he gets into the habit of an early bed time – I think there are so many cranky children around these days because their parents let them stay up till 9, 10 or even later. Children need sleep and you need time together with your partner. Bedtime can be 7pm, again I put books in the bed and told them they could read if they couldn’t fall asleep – by read I mean look at the books. My son got a life-long respect for classical music as I left him for bed with WFCR playing – when they turned to jazz in the evening he was horrified! Also, one of the most useful things I ever got were “reins” a sort of harness with a strap you hold and it allows the kid to walk independent of you but close. I was accused many times of having my child on a leash – stupid people! It gives the baby exercise and the opportunity to actually go towards something that interests him. It appalls me how many toddlers and older are pushed around in a pram – it stops them exercising, it takes away their independence and need for discovery – yes, sometimes it is a pain walking at toddler pace, but it is worth it. The reins (that’s what we called them in England, I’m not sure what they are called here) save the kids from face-plants as you sort of hold them up with the reins as they fall, they can’t suddenly dash off and fall off a cliff or trip an elderly person!! When they get a bit older, unhook one end of the strap and they have a wider perimeter but they are still safe. Just to put all this in context, I was born and raised in England so my ideas of child raising are “old fashioned” but they worked! My children are in their 30’s and are no more messed up than the average child with parents!! By the way, I’ve taken my two kids to Sydney from Connecticut, when they were 4 and 8. It took planning, careful toy purchases, colouring books and other distractions for 24 hours on the plane and another 6 or so hanging around airports, but it is possible. Hugs to you all on this amazing journey you will be going on through life – it’s never what you expect, and you will become the Mistress of Quick Thinking!
I was going to give the same advice as Janet, although she has even more tips than I knew. I agree the baby takes up all your time right now, but as he gets into a sleep pattern you will have nap times free – make sure nap times are LONG! Once my children got a little bit older – a year or so – I told them, ‘nap time is an hour (or whatever you decide) here are some books to keep you occupied until it’s time to get up!” Worked a charm for me. Also, make sure he gets into the habit of an early bed time – I think there are so many cranky children around these days because their parents let them stay up till 9, 10 or even later. Children need sleep and you need time together with your partner. Bedtime can be 7pm, again I put books in the bed and told them they could read if they couldn’t fall asleep – by read I mean look at the books. My son got a life-long respect for classical music as I left him for bed with WFCR playing – when they turned to jazz in the evening he was horrified! Also, one of the most useful things I ever got were “reins” a sort of harness with a strap you hold and it allows the kid to walk independent of you but close. I was accused many times of having my child on a leash – stupid people! It gives the baby exercise and the opportunity to actually go towards something that interests him. It appalls me how many toddlers and older are pushed around in a pram – it stops them exercising, it takes away their independence and need for discovery – yes, sometimes it is a pain walking at toddler pace, but it is worth it. The reins (that’s what we called them in England, I’m not sure what they are called here) save the kids from face-plants as you sort of hold them up with the reins as they fall, they can’t suddenly dash off and fall off a cliff or trip an elderly person!! When they get a bit older, unhook one end of the strap and they have a wider perimeter but they are still safe. Just to put all this in context, I was born and raised in England so my ideas of child raising are “old fashioned” but they worked! My children are in their 30’s and are no more messed up than the average child with parents!! By the way, I’ve taken my two kids to Sydney from Connecticut, when they were 4 and 8. It took planning, careful toy purchases, colouring books and other distractions for 24 hours on the plane and another 6 or so hanging around airports, but it is possible. Hugs to you all on this amazing journey you will be going on through life – it’s never what you expect, and you will become the Mistress of Quick Thinking!
I was going to give the same advice as Janet, although she has even more tips than I knew. I agree the baby takes up all your time right now, but as he gets into a sleep pattern you will have nap times free – make sure nap times are LONG! Once my children got a little bit older – a year or so – I told them, ‘nap time is an hour (or whatever you decide) here are some books to keep you occupied until it’s time to get up!” Worked a charm for me. Also, make sure he gets into the habit of an early bed time – I think there are so many cranky children around these days because their parents let them stay up till 9, 10 or even later. Children need sleep and you need time together with your partner. Bedtime can be 7pm, again I put books in the bed and told them they could read if they couldn’t fall asleep – by read I mean look at the books. My son got a life-long respect for classical music as I left him for bed with WFCR playing – when they turned to jazz in the evening he was horrified! Also, one of the most useful things I ever got were “reins” a sort of harness with a strap you hold and it allows the kid to walk independent of you but close. I was accused many times of having my child on a leash – stupid people! It gives the baby exercise and the opportunity to actually go towards something that interests him. It appalls me how many toddlers and older are pushed around in a pram – it stops them exercising, it takes away their independence and need for discovery – yes, sometimes it is a pain walking at toddler pace, but it is worth it. The reins (that’s what we called them in England, I’m not sure what they are called here) save the kids from face-plants as you sort of hold them up with the reins as they fall, they can’t suddenly dash off and fall off a cliff or trip an elderly person!! When they get a bit older, unhook one end of the strap and they have a wider perimeter but they are still safe. Just to put all this in context, I was born and raised in England so my ideas of child raising are “old fashioned” but they worked! My children are in their 30’s and are no more messed up than the average child with parents!! By the way, I’ve taken my two kids to Sydney from Connecticut, when they were 4 and 8. It took planning, careful toy purchases, colouring books and other distractions for 24 hours on the plane and another 6 or so hanging around airports, but it is possible. Hugs to you all on this amazing journey you will be going on through life – it’s never what you expect, and you will become the Mistress of Quick Thinking!
I was going to give the same advice as Janet, although she has even more tips than I knew. I agree the baby takes up all your time right now, but as he gets into a sleep pattern you will have nap times free – make sure nap times are LONG! Once my children got a little bit older – a year or so – I told them, ‘nap time is an hour (or whatever you decide) here are some books to keep you occupied until it’s time to get up!” Worked a charm for me. Also, make sure he gets into the habit of an early bed time – I think there are so many cranky children around these days because their parents let them stay up till 9, 10 or even later. Children need sleep and you need time together with your partner. Bedtime can be 7pm, again I put books in the bed and told them they could read if they couldn’t fall asleep – by read I mean look at the books. My son got a life-long respect for classical music as I left him for bed with WFCR playing – when they turned to jazz in the evening he was horrified! Also, one of the most useful things I ever got were “reins” a sort of harness with a strap you hold and it allows the kid to walk independent of you but close. I was accused many times of having my child on a leash – stupid people! It gives the baby exercise and the opportunity to actually go towards something that interests him. It appalls me how many toddlers and older are pushed around in a pram – it stops them exercising, it takes away their independence and need for discovery – yes, sometimes it is a pain walking at toddler pace, but it is worth it. The reins (that’s what we called them in England, I’m not sure what they are called here) save the kids from face-plants as you sort of hold them up with the reins as they fall, they can’t suddenly dash off and fall off a cliff or trip an elderly person!! When they get a bit older, unhook one end of the strap and they have a wider perimeter but they are still safe. Just to put all this in context, I was born and raised in England so my ideas of child raising are “old fashioned” but they worked! My children are in their 30’s and are no more messed up than the average child with parents!! By the way, I’ve taken my two kids to Sydney from Connecticut, when they were 4 and 8. It took planning, careful toy purchases, colouring books and other distractions for 24 hours on the plane and another 6 or so hanging around airports, but it is possible. Hugs to you all on this amazing journey you will be going on through life – it’s never what you expect, and you will become the Mistress of Quick Thinking!
I was going to give the same advice as Janet, although she has even more tips than I knew. I agree the baby takes up all your time right now, but as he gets into a sleep pattern you will have nap times free – make sure nap times are LONG! Once my children got a little bit older – a year or so – I told them, ‘nap time is an hour (or whatever you decide) here are some books to keep you occupied until it’s time to get up!” Worked a charm for me. Also, make sure he gets into the habit of an early bed time – I think there are so many cranky children around these days because their parents let them stay up till 9, 10 or even later. Children need sleep and you need time together with your partner. Bedtime can be 7pm, again I put books in the bed and told them they could read if they couldn’t fall asleep – by read I mean look at the books. My son got a life-long respect for classical music as I left him for bed with WFCR playing – when they turned to jazz in the evening he was horrified! Also, one of the most useful things I ever got were “reins” a sort of harness with a strap you hold and it allows the kid to walk independent of you but close. I was accused many times of having my child on a leash – stupid people! It gives the baby exercise and the opportunity to actually go towards something that interests him. It appalls me how many toddlers and older are pushed around in a pram – it stops them exercising, it takes away their independence and need for discovery – yes, sometimes it is a pain walking at toddler pace, but it is worth it. The reins (that’s what we called them in England, I’m not sure what they are called here) save the kids from face-plants as you sort of hold them up with the reins as they fall, they can’t suddenly dash off and fall off a cliff or trip an elderly person!! When they get a bit older, unhook one end of the strap and they have a wider perimeter but they are still safe. Just to put all this in context, I was born and raised in England so my ideas of child raising are “old fashioned” but they worked! My children are in their 30’s and are no more messed up than the average child with parents!! By the way, I’ve taken my two kids to Sydney from Connecticut, when they were 4 and 8. It took planning, careful toy purchases, colouring books and other distractions for 24 hours on the plane and another 6 or so hanging around airports, but it is possible. Hugs to you all on this amazing journey you will be going on through life – it’s never what you expect, and you will become the Mistress of Quick Thinking!
Well said, Janet and Jakki. They should post those helpful hints on planes.
Enjoy this time, Julie, and incorporate into your journals as you can.
An early Aloha.
Well said, Janet and Jakki. They should post those helpful hints on planes.
Enjoy this time, Julie, and incorporate into your journals as you can.
An early Aloha.
Well said, Janet and Jakki. They should post those helpful hints on planes.
Enjoy this time, Julie, and incorporate into your journals as you can.
An early Aloha.
Well said, Janet and Jakki. They should post those helpful hints on planes.
Enjoy this time, Julie, and incorporate into your journals as you can.
An early Aloha.
Well said, Janet and Jakki. They should post those helpful hints on planes.
Enjoy this time, Julie, and incorporate into your journals as you can.
An early Aloha.
Well said, Janet and Jakki. They should post those helpful hints on planes.
Enjoy this time, Julie, and incorporate into your journals as you can.
An early Aloha.
Well said, Janet and Jakki. They should post those helpful hints on planes.
Enjoy this time, Julie, and incorporate into your journals as you can.
An early Aloha.
Thank you for all the tips!
Thank you for all the tips!
Thank you for all the tips!
Thank you for all the tips!
Thank you for all the tips!
Thank you for all the tips!
Thank you for all the tips!
Thank you!
Thank you!
Thank you!
Thank you!
Thank you!
Thank you!
Thank you!
So true Julie, once you have children it is never all about you again ever. It is challenging but so rewarding. Things will eventually change to where you can once again have more time to yourself but for the time being take it from a woman who has raised her children and will qualify for social security in the coming year . . . make every effort to savor this time because though it may not seem like it now, it will pass away all too quickly. Being a mother is the greatest thing you will ever do bar none. Nothing compares to nurturing a child and raising them up and watching them spread their wings and fly. Your artwork is beautiful but your children will be living works of art never to be repeated. Enjoy the journey.
So true Julie, once you have children it is never all about you again ever. It is challenging but so rewarding. Things will eventually change to where you can once again have more time to yourself but for the time being take it from a woman who has raised her children and will qualify for social security in the coming year . . . make every effort to savor this time because though it may not seem like it now, it will pass away all too quickly. Being a mother is the greatest thing you will ever do bar none. Nothing compares to nurturing a child and raising them up and watching them spread their wings and fly. Your artwork is beautiful but your children will be living works of art never to be repeated. Enjoy the journey.
So true Julie, once you have children it is never all about you again ever. It is challenging but so rewarding. Things will eventually change to where you can once again have more time to yourself but for the time being take it from a woman who has raised her children and will qualify for social security in the coming year . . . make every effort to savor this time because though it may not seem like it now, it will pass away all too quickly. Being a mother is the greatest thing you will ever do bar none. Nothing compares to nurturing a child and raising them up and watching them spread their wings and fly. Your artwork is beautiful but your children will be living works of art never to be repeated. Enjoy the journey.
So true Julie, once you have children it is never all about you again ever. It is challenging but so rewarding. Things will eventually change to where you can once again have more time to yourself but for the time being take it from a woman who has raised her children and will qualify for social security in the coming year . . . make every effort to savor this time because though it may not seem like it now, it will pass away all too quickly. Being a mother is the greatest thing you will ever do bar none. Nothing compares to nurturing a child and raising them up and watching them spread their wings and fly. Your artwork is beautiful but your children will be living works of art never to be repeated. Enjoy the journey.
So true Julie, once you have children it is never all about you again ever. It is challenging but so rewarding. Things will eventually change to where you can once again have more time to yourself but for the time being take it from a woman who has raised her children and will qualify for social security in the coming year . . . make every effort to savor this time because though it may not seem like it now, it will pass away all too quickly. Being a mother is the greatest thing you will ever do bar none. Nothing compares to nurturing a child and raising them up and watching them spread their wings and fly. Your artwork is beautiful but your children will be living works of art never to be repeated. Enjoy the journey.
So true Julie, once you have children it is never all about you again ever. It is challenging but so rewarding. Things will eventually change to where you can once again have more time to yourself but for the time being take it from a woman who has raised her children and will qualify for social security in the coming year . . . make every effort to savor this time because though it may not seem like it now, it will pass away all too quickly. Being a mother is the greatest thing you will ever do bar none. Nothing compares to nurturing a child and raising them up and watching them spread their wings and fly. Your artwork is beautiful but your children will be living works of art never to be repeated. Enjoy the journey.
So true Julie, once you have children it is never all about you again ever. It is challenging but so rewarding. Things will eventually change to where you can once again have more time to yourself but for the time being take it from a woman who has raised her children and will qualify for social security in the coming year . . . make every effort to savor this time because though it may not seem like it now, it will pass away all too quickly. Being a mother is the greatest thing you will ever do bar none. Nothing compares to nurturing a child and raising them up and watching them spread their wings and fly. Your artwork is beautiful but your children will be living works of art never to be repeated. Enjoy the journey.
I have to chime in about the “reins”–and, by the way, the plane advice is great–because my kids all “played horsie” when they were toddlers. I never lost them in a store, I could hold them up if they started to fall, and they didn’t run all over the place. Toddlers are faster than you think, and can run into bad situations so easily! One thing I did with the kiddies is keep a playpen in the middle of the living room (even when guests were present, though not at big parties) so they were always part of the family when they were very young. And I have to say you are doing great as a mom so far!
I have to chime in about the “reins”–and, by the way, the plane advice is great–because my kids all “played horsie” when they were toddlers. I never lost them in a store, I could hold them up if they started to fall, and they didn’t run all over the place. Toddlers are faster than you think, and can run into bad situations so easily! One thing I did with the kiddies is keep a playpen in the middle of the living room (even when guests were present, though not at big parties) so they were always part of the family when they were very young. And I have to say you are doing great as a mom so far!
I have to chime in about the “reins”–and, by the way, the plane advice is great–because my kids all “played horsie” when they were toddlers. I never lost them in a store, I could hold them up if they started to fall, and they didn’t run all over the place. Toddlers are faster than you think, and can run into bad situations so easily! One thing I did with the kiddies is keep a playpen in the middle of the living room (even when guests were present, though not at big parties) so they were always part of the family when they were very young. And I have to say you are doing great as a mom so far!
I have to chime in about the “reins”–and, by the way, the plane advice is great–because my kids all “played horsie” when they were toddlers. I never lost them in a store, I could hold them up if they started to fall, and they didn’t run all over the place. Toddlers are faster than you think, and can run into bad situations so easily! One thing I did with the kiddies is keep a playpen in the middle of the living room (even when guests were present, though not at big parties) so they were always part of the family when they were very young. And I have to say you are doing great as a mom so far!
I have to chime in about the “reins”–and, by the way, the plane advice is great–because my kids all “played horsie” when they were toddlers. I never lost them in a store, I could hold them up if they started to fall, and they didn’t run all over the place. Toddlers are faster than you think, and can run into bad situations so easily! One thing I did with the kiddies is keep a playpen in the middle of the living room (even when guests were present, though not at big parties) so they were always part of the family when they were very young. And I have to say you are doing great as a mom so far!
I have to chime in about the “reins”–and, by the way, the plane advice is great–because my kids all “played horsie” when they were toddlers. I never lost them in a store, I could hold them up if they started to fall, and they didn’t run all over the place. Toddlers are faster than you think, and can run into bad situations so easily! One thing I did with the kiddies is keep a playpen in the middle of the living room (even when guests were present, though not at big parties) so they were always part of the family when they were very young. And I have to say you are doing great as a mom so far!
I have to chime in about the “reins”–and, by the way, the plane advice is great–because my kids all “played horsie” when they were toddlers. I never lost them in a store, I could hold them up if they started to fall, and they didn’t run all over the place. Toddlers are faster than you think, and can run into bad situations so easily! One thing I did with the kiddies is keep a playpen in the middle of the living room (even when guests were present, though not at big parties) so they were always part of the family when they were very young. And I have to say you are doing great as a mom so far!
I look forward to my inbox every day for your posts, no matter that now you are having some guest posts. I will still come back today, tomorrow and for a long time. You have earned your time with your new baby. All of us really enjoy your sharing the thoughts you are having now with him, and for us that is a bonus. Don’t stress out over putting something out there everyday that is “new” or different. You being yourself and letting us in on some of the wonderful things that are part of your life at this moment are a plus for all of us. I would say that 99.9% of your readers/followers are already happy campers and want the best for you and your family.
I look forward to my inbox every day for your posts, no matter that now you are having some guest posts. I will still come back today, tomorrow and for a long time. You have earned your time with your new baby. All of us really enjoy your sharing the thoughts you are having now with him, and for us that is a bonus. Don’t stress out over putting something out there everyday that is “new” or different. You being yourself and letting us in on some of the wonderful things that are part of your life at this moment are a plus for all of us. I would say that 99.9% of your readers/followers are already happy campers and want the best for you and your family.
I look forward to my inbox every day for your posts, no matter that now you are having some guest posts. I will still come back today, tomorrow and for a long time. You have earned your time with your new baby. All of us really enjoy your sharing the thoughts you are having now with him, and for us that is a bonus. Don’t stress out over putting something out there everyday that is “new” or different. You being yourself and letting us in on some of the wonderful things that are part of your life at this moment are a plus for all of us. I would say that 99.9% of your readers/followers are already happy campers and want the best for you and your family.
I look forward to my inbox every day for your posts, no matter that now you are having some guest posts. I will still come back today, tomorrow and for a long time. You have earned your time with your new baby. All of us really enjoy your sharing the thoughts you are having now with him, and for us that is a bonus. Don’t stress out over putting something out there everyday that is “new” or different. You being yourself and letting us in on some of the wonderful things that are part of your life at this moment are a plus for all of us. I would say that 99.9% of your readers/followers are already happy campers and want the best for you and your family.
I look forward to my inbox every day for your posts, no matter that now you are having some guest posts. I will still come back today, tomorrow and for a long time. You have earned your time with your new baby. All of us really enjoy your sharing the thoughts you are having now with him, and for us that is a bonus. Don’t stress out over putting something out there everyday that is “new” or different. You being yourself and letting us in on some of the wonderful things that are part of your life at this moment are a plus for all of us. I would say that 99.9% of your readers/followers are already happy campers and want the best for you and your family.
I look forward to my inbox every day for your posts, no matter that now you are having some guest posts. I will still come back today, tomorrow and for a long time. You have earned your time with your new baby. All of us really enjoy your sharing the thoughts you are having now with him, and for us that is a bonus. Don’t stress out over putting something out there everyday that is “new” or different. You being yourself and letting us in on some of the wonderful things that are part of your life at this moment are a plus for all of us. I would say that 99.9% of your readers/followers are already happy campers and want the best for you and your family.
I look forward to my inbox every day for your posts, no matter that now you are having some guest posts. I will still come back today, tomorrow and for a long time. You have earned your time with your new baby. All of us really enjoy your sharing the thoughts you are having now with him, and for us that is a bonus. Don’t stress out over putting something out there everyday that is “new” or different. You being yourself and letting us in on some of the wonderful things that are part of your life at this moment are a plus for all of us. I would say that 99.9% of your readers/followers are already happy campers and want the best for you and your family.
Hi Julie,
When I go to Hawaii I always have to cover up wearing sun sleeves and a another coverup. A lot of times it is hard to find shade. The beach tent should work great on the beach but you may want to purchase some clothing and a hat for when you are walking around or in the car since at his young age he can’t wear sunscreen. I found a place online that sells infant sizes. It is called uvskinz.com. I hope you have a wonderful time in Hawaii! Aloha!!
Hi Julie,
When I go to Hawaii I always have to cover up wearing sun sleeves and a another coverup. A lot of times it is hard to find shade. The beach tent should work great on the beach but you may want to purchase some clothing and a hat for when you are walking around or in the car since at his young age he can’t wear sunscreen. I found a place online that sells infant sizes. It is called uvskinz.com. I hope you have a wonderful time in Hawaii! Aloha!!
Hi Julie,
When I go to Hawaii I always have to cover up wearing sun sleeves and a another coverup. A lot of times it is hard to find shade. The beach tent should work great on the beach but you may want to purchase some clothing and a hat for when you are walking around or in the car since at his young age he can’t wear sunscreen. I found a place online that sells infant sizes. It is called uvskinz.com. I hope you have a wonderful time in Hawaii! Aloha!!
Hi Julie,
When I go to Hawaii I always have to cover up wearing sun sleeves and a another coverup. A lot of times it is hard to find shade. The beach tent should work great on the beach but you may want to purchase some clothing and a hat for when you are walking around or in the car since at his young age he can’t wear sunscreen. I found a place online that sells infant sizes. It is called uvskinz.com. I hope you have a wonderful time in Hawaii! Aloha!!
Hi Julie,
When I go to Hawaii I always have to cover up wearing sun sleeves and a another coverup. A lot of times it is hard to find shade. The beach tent should work great on the beach but you may want to purchase some clothing and a hat for when you are walking around or in the car since at his young age he can’t wear sunscreen. I found a place online that sells infant sizes. It is called uvskinz.com. I hope you have a wonderful time in Hawaii! Aloha!!
Hi Julie,
When I go to Hawaii I always have to cover up wearing sun sleeves and a another coverup. A lot of times it is hard to find shade. The beach tent should work great on the beach but you may want to purchase some clothing and a hat for when you are walking around or in the car since at his young age he can’t wear sunscreen. I found a place online that sells infant sizes. It is called uvskinz.com. I hope you have a wonderful time in Hawaii! Aloha!!
Hi Julie,
When I go to Hawaii I always have to cover up wearing sun sleeves and a another coverup. A lot of times it is hard to find shade. The beach tent should work great on the beach but you may want to purchase some clothing and a hat for when you are walking around or in the car since at his young age he can’t wear sunscreen. I found a place online that sells infant sizes. It is called uvskinz.com. I hope you have a wonderful time in Hawaii! Aloha!!
Warmest congratulations again. Agree with the mom’s above. I lived abroad for six years but came home to have our girl (who is now 21). Nursing during take off or a bottle later in life definitely helps. Keeping them content but also remembering to try and sleep they do is so important. Enjoy! Parenthood is absolutely amazing but also so heart wrenching at times. What a gift. Warmest congrats.
Warmest congratulations again. Agree with the mom’s above. I lived abroad for six years but came home to have our girl (who is now 21). Nursing during take off or a bottle later in life definitely helps. Keeping them content but also remembering to try and sleep they do is so important. Enjoy! Parenthood is absolutely amazing but also so heart wrenching at times. What a gift. Warmest congrats.
Warmest congratulations again. Agree with the mom’s above. I lived abroad for six years but came home to have our girl (who is now 21). Nursing during take off or a bottle later in life definitely helps. Keeping them content but also remembering to try and sleep they do is so important. Enjoy! Parenthood is absolutely amazing but also so heart wrenching at times. What a gift. Warmest congrats.
Warmest congratulations again. Agree with the mom’s above. I lived abroad for six years but came home to have our girl (who is now 21). Nursing during take off or a bottle later in life definitely helps. Keeping them content but also remembering to try and sleep they do is so important. Enjoy! Parenthood is absolutely amazing but also so heart wrenching at times. What a gift. Warmest congrats.
Warmest congratulations again. Agree with the mom’s above. I lived abroad for six years but came home to have our girl (who is now 21). Nursing during take off or a bottle later in life definitely helps. Keeping them content but also remembering to try and sleep they do is so important. Enjoy! Parenthood is absolutely amazing but also so heart wrenching at times. What a gift. Warmest congrats.
Warmest congratulations again. Agree with the mom’s above. I lived abroad for six years but came home to have our girl (who is now 21). Nursing during take off or a bottle later in life definitely helps. Keeping them content but also remembering to try and sleep they do is so important. Enjoy! Parenthood is absolutely amazing but also so heart wrenching at times. What a gift. Warmest congrats.
Warmest congratulations again. Agree with the mom’s above. I lived abroad for six years but came home to have our girl (who is now 21). Nursing during take off or a bottle later in life definitely helps. Keeping them content but also remembering to try and sleep they do is so important. Enjoy! Parenthood is absolutely amazing but also so heart wrenching at times. What a gift. Warmest congrats.
Take twice as much of everything than you think you will need. So that means a suitcases for you and hubby and at least 3 for baby. I kid you not… I was on a 3 hour flight from LA to Dallas and ran out of diapers (had plenty of them in my suitcase- in the hold of the plane). My son got off of the plane wearing a red bandana for a diaper as that is all that I had to cover his bottom with. When I got off the plane I immediately gave my 6 month old son directly to my mother! Be prepared and use distilled water as their tummies can get upset with a change in water, etc. But you will be in Hawaii, so enjoy!
Take twice as much of everything than you think you will need. So that means a suitcases for you and hubby and at least 3 for baby. I kid you not… I was on a 3 hour flight from LA to Dallas and ran out of diapers (had plenty of them in my suitcase- in the hold of the plane). My son got off of the plane wearing a red bandana for a diaper as that is all that I had to cover his bottom with. When I got off the plane I immediately gave my 6 month old son directly to my mother! Be prepared and use distilled water as their tummies can get upset with a change in water, etc. But you will be in Hawaii, so enjoy!
Take twice as much of everything than you think you will need. So that means a suitcases for you and hubby and at least 3 for baby. I kid you not… I was on a 3 hour flight from LA to Dallas and ran out of diapers (had plenty of them in my suitcase- in the hold of the plane). My son got off of the plane wearing a red bandana for a diaper as that is all that I had to cover his bottom with. When I got off the plane I immediately gave my 6 month old son directly to my mother! Be prepared and use distilled water as their tummies can get upset with a change in water, etc. But you will be in Hawaii, so enjoy!
Take twice as much of everything than you think you will need. So that means a suitcases for you and hubby and at least 3 for baby. I kid you not… I was on a 3 hour flight from LA to Dallas and ran out of diapers (had plenty of them in my suitcase- in the hold of the plane). My son got off of the plane wearing a red bandana for a diaper as that is all that I had to cover his bottom with. When I got off the plane I immediately gave my 6 month old son directly to my mother! Be prepared and use distilled water as their tummies can get upset with a change in water, etc. But you will be in Hawaii, so enjoy!
Take twice as much of everything than you think you will need. So that means a suitcases for you and hubby and at least 3 for baby. I kid you not… I was on a 3 hour flight from LA to Dallas and ran out of diapers (had plenty of them in my suitcase- in the hold of the plane). My son got off of the plane wearing a red bandana for a diaper as that is all that I had to cover his bottom with. When I got off the plane I immediately gave my 6 month old son directly to my mother! Be prepared and use distilled water as their tummies can get upset with a change in water, etc. But you will be in Hawaii, so enjoy!
Take twice as much of everything than you think you will need. So that means a suitcases for you and hubby and at least 3 for baby. I kid you not… I was on a 3 hour flight from LA to Dallas and ran out of diapers (had plenty of them in my suitcase- in the hold of the plane). My son got off of the plane wearing a red bandana for a diaper as that is all that I had to cover his bottom with. When I got off the plane I immediately gave my 6 month old son directly to my mother! Be prepared and use distilled water as their tummies can get upset with a change in water, etc. But you will be in Hawaii, so enjoy!
Take twice as much of everything than you think you will need. So that means a suitcases for you and hubby and at least 3 for baby. I kid you not… I was on a 3 hour flight from LA to Dallas and ran out of diapers (had plenty of them in my suitcase- in the hold of the plane). My son got off of the plane wearing a red bandana for a diaper as that is all that I had to cover his bottom with. When I got off the plane I immediately gave my 6 month old son directly to my mother! Be prepared and use distilled water as their tummies can get upset with a change in water, etc. But you will be in Hawaii, so enjoy!