7 DIY Kids’ Valentines Mailboxes

So, if you’re feeling like an over achiever and want to do something fun with your kids over the weekend… Why not help them make the coolest Valentine’s Day mailbox ever?  However, if you just send them to school with a shoebox, tissue box, cereal box, or paper bag then that’s okay, too.  I’m not going to tell, and we can just pretend you never even saw this post.

Follow my Valentine's Pinterest Board!

Because that’s the kind of mom I am.  I would totally be committed to doing one of these cool mailboxes and then BAM! It’d be Valentine’s Day and we’d be lucky if we even had Valentines ready to hand out at school.

However, if you miss the Valentine’s Day train then you can still make a cool mailbox for your home where you kiddo can receive their very own mail.  Studies show that exchanging letters with family members strengthens literacy skills and family ties!

DIY Kids’ Mailboxes

Robot Mailbox via Making of a Mom
Milk Container Penguin Mailbox via Dollar Store Crafts

Hot Air Balloon Mailbox via Making of a Mom
Glitter Coffee Can Mailbox via The Idea Box
Kitty Cat Mailbox via Pretty Plain Janes
Unicorn Mailbox via Artsy Fartsy Mama

Princess Castle Mailbox via Making of a Mom

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Easy Last Minute Kids’ Valentines

Raise your hand if you’re a procrastinator? Oh.  You, too?!  They start putting Valentine’s Day decorations, candy, and cards out before they’ve even had time to clear out the Christmas decorations from the shelves. 

However, I’m that person who didn’t take her Christmas tree down until the middle (or endish) of January and not because I was still feeling the holiday spirit still, either.

Related Post: Printable Baby Books Pages

I’m usually running around like a mad woman before any holiday where it might be somewhat expected for my kids to participate at school through food, gifts, etc.  I always feel like Valentine’s Day just creeps up on me, though one year I tried to super mom it and did an okay job making homemade fortune cookies.

So, if Valentine’s Day has snuck up on you, then here’s some easy kids’ Valentines you and your little one can whip up together without losing your mind.

Easy, Last Minute Valentines for Kids

Valentines Scratch Offs via Dollar Store Crafts

Crazy Straw Printable via Momma Lew
Minecraft Valentines via Atta Girl Says
Monkey Valentines via Beauty Through Imperfection
Ninja Valentines via Merry About Town

Owl Valentine’s Cards via A Spectacled Owl
Cute Animal Valentine’s Day Cards via Food Fun Family
Monster Jokes Valentines via Two Kids & a Coupon
Fortune Teller (Cootie Catcher) Valentines via Atta Girl Says

Out of this World Valentines via The Joys of Boys
Monster Valentines via Food Fun Family

Three Printable Valentine’s Cards via A Spectacled Owl
Valentine’s Day Puzzle Cards via Food Fun Family

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How to Prepare for a C-Section Delivery

Both my biological children were born vaginally.  I had anticipated that would probably be the case when I carried a baby for another couple, too, but I was wrong.  Baby A was breech and we elected for a planned cesarean, even though there are instances where breech babies can and are born safely without a c-section.
However, even though I felt it was the best and correct choice, I was so nervous!  The unknown is a scary place.  I took to Google searches and my favorite mom and surrogate support groups for help.  I was mostly overthinking the whole ordeal, I think, but I did learn a few things about preparing for a c-section that I wouldn’t have known otherwise.

Take a Stool Softener

The most common advice that I received was to take a stool softener and to take it sooner rather than later.  Now, by “sooner” we’re talking a day or two before your scheduled c-section.  You should also receive something in the hospital post-op—I was given Miralax—but, if not, then go ahead and request something.
Now, I want to emphasize a stool softener not a laxative.
The stool softener is to help assist in an easy post partum poop, which can be unpleasant regardless of your delivery type.  However, the meds used during a c-section and the recovery overall can leave you more prone to constipation.  Being proactive helps a ton!

Related Post: Your Comments About My Pregnancy Are Not Wanted

Get Some Fiber Rich Snacks

I opted to load up on fiber rich snacks and even bought some fiber gummy vitamins to take.  Fiber is great for pooping and having yummy snacks is great for your soul when you’re at the hospital with a less-than-stellar food selection.  See previous point (above) about pooping.  Look for snacks with 4 grams or more of fiber.

Shave or Be Shaved

You’ll want to shave your lower abdomen area, above your vulva, unless you don’t mind the medical staff doing it for you pre-op.  I know you probably can’t see that area at this point in your pregnancy, so feel free to enlist a friend to help.  Or just do it blind.  That’s what I did.  This is where your incision will be, so it needs to be hair free.

Related Post: 6 Ways Baby Benefits from Babywearing

Have a Belly Binder Available

Ask your midwife or OB and wherever you’ll be delivering if a belly binder (also called an abdominal binder) will be available to you.  I called my OB's office and they told me that belly binders weren’t provided by the hospital where I’d be delivering, but they actually were provided.  Most hospitals do provide them, but you can also buy your own, if you prefer.  Trust me.  You want one.

Pack Comfy & Appropriate Clothing

Really think about the clothes you’re packing.  Your incision is going to be very low on your abdomen, just above your vulva.  I ended up buying some silk, high rise underwear and didn’t pack any bottoms that would sit right on my incision site.  Some mid to high waist leggings are perfect. 

After my c-section is when I fell in love with wearing a robe, which I still do all the time.  Get a robe.  They’re amazing, wearable blankets.

Was this post helpful to you?  If so, you might also benefit from my C-Section Hospital Bag Checklist for Moms. 

Click here to receive the free, printable hospital bag checklist for c-section moms.

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Ten Toddler Approved Chores

As moms we’re good at taking full responsibility for everything—ourselves, our children, our spouse, our home…everything.  I know I find myself feeling overwhelmed at times because I have 5 million things that I think I need to do. 

When I get to this point, I often realize that I’m the one putting all of that on me.  I’m not asking for help when I need it.  I’m not giving myself any grace.  I’m not expecting my family to do things for themselves.

And I’m suffering because of it.

I won’t lie and say that I never feel overwhelmed anymore or that I don’t still mom guilt myself and when I try—and fail—to do everything.  However, I’m making a conscious effort to not hold myself responsible for everybody’s everything.  I’m working on remembering that my family has responsibilities, too, and needs to be held accountable.  It’s helped tremendously.

Related Post: 4 Tips to Get Your Child to Enjoy Reading

I know we moms want to do everything for our children, and sometimes we even feel guilty for expecting them to do things.  Or remember that sadness—and pride—you felt and still feel with every shred of independence they acquire?

Well, eventually our precious little angels will need to be self sufficient adults.  I, for one, do not want to do my 25 year-old’s laundry or grocery shopping.

Children can start doing chores and helping out right around the time they start walking.  Starting them young makes it the norm, instead of surprise! you’re thirteen and now I expect you to do all these things I never taught you to do.

When our kids are younger, they even enjoy chores.  Part of this is because they get to be involved with something you’re doing.  So, no, you probably won’t be able to expect your toddler or preschooler to handle most chores on their own.  And, no, it might be as fast as if you just do it yourself.  However, those days will come.

Lay the foundation.  Include even our youngest kids.  Let them know they’re needed and an important part of the family unit, too.  Everyone can contribute and feel proud!  Show your appreciation, thanks, and pride.  Your toddlers will appreciate it.

1. Dishes

Toddlers can help with dishes, but be warned that they really enjoy playing in the water, if you’re a dishwasher-less house, like mine.

• Load/unload dishwasher
  
• Put away dishes
  
• Help with rinsing dishes
  
• Sorting dishes

2. Laundry

My two year-old loves helping with laundry almost as much as much as she likes playing in the dryer.  Thanks to his early involvement in laundry, my 10 year-old can do the whole laundry routine without me and has been able to for a few years now.

• Help empty dryer
  
• Help load washer
  
• Help transfer clothes from washer to dryer
  
• Close lids/doors of appliances
  
• Pour laundry detergent in
  
• Push buttons to start laundry

3. Feeding Pets

Feeding our pets is pretty much the full responsibilty of the kids at my house, with some prompts from mom and dad, occasionally.

• Pinch of food for fish
  
• Scoop dog/cat food into bowl
  
• Feed treats to dog

4. Training Pets

If you don’t mind your dog responding to commands from your children, they love being involved in dog training and reinforcement.

• Helps give commands
  
• Helps give rewards/treats when dog follows commands

Related Post: Open Ended Questions for Your Gradeschooler

5. Clean Their Room

This is one of the earliest tasks kids can easily be involved in, and I think it’s really important for them to take care of their own things/space.

• Pick up their toys
  
• Put their laundry in hamper
  
• Throw away dirty disposable diapers

6. Wipe Up Spills

I fully encourage and insist that my kids, including my 2 year-old, clean up after themselves.

• Wipe up spilled liquids
  
• Pick up dropped food

Related Post: Kid Approved Jokes

7. Set and/or Clear the Table

If you’re a family who sets the table, you can get your kids involved in that and after dinner clean up, too.

• Help set table
  
• Clear dirty dishes from table
  
• Put own dishes in sink/dishwasher
  
• Throw away disposable plates/cups
  
• Dispose of uneaten food

8. Hand Vacuum

I know some kids are afraid of vacuums but mine love to vacuum and a hand/mini vacuum is the perfect size for children!

• Vacuum furniture
  
• Vacuum crumbs off the floor
  
• Vacuum staircase

9. Water Plants

Maybe your kids will have a green thumb.

10. Help Bring In/Put Away Groceries

Depending on their size, age, and maturity, your toddler can help with various grocery tasks.

• Put away groceries
  
• Help carry in lighter groceries

What chores does your toddler or older child do? What age do you start including your kids in household responsibilities?

3 Cool Products You’ve Never Heard of for Lactating Moms

We’ve all had that experience where we come across some really cool product but only after it’s useful to us.  That happens to me all the time with kid and baby products, such as when I discovered the Kiinde breast milk storage system!  Lucky me, I keep getting new nieces and nephews so I can buy those things as gifts for them, instead.

Whether you’re breastfeeding or exclusively pumping, there are some really awesome products out there!  Unfortunately, many of them aren’t widely advertised or sold.  I know I’m on my third lactating experience and I’m still finding new products to make it easier/better. 

Related Post: Where to Donate or Sell Breast Milk

So, fear not, you don’t have to wish someone told you about that cool, unique product.  I’m going to do just that right now!

1. Freemies—Pump on the Go

Freemies are a unique breast milk collection system.  They are hands free and concealable.  The cups go in your bra and the system is set up to work with a variety of breast pumps and can be hacked to work with others.  Some women have reported trouble maintaining supply with the Freemies or taking longer to empty, while others just can’t stop raving about how they’re the best product they ever found!

2. Haakaa—An Improved Hand Pump Design

The Haakaa is a manual breast pump, by definition, but really it’s something different.  You squeeze the body of the Haakaa to form suction on your breast.  You can choose to ‘pump’ it if you want, but I think the Haakaa is ingenious for other reasons. 

Because of the suction many women have had success with using the Haakaa to suction to their breast and catch milk from one breast while nursing from the other.  Also, pumpers have utilized the Haakaa lying down and in bed.  Don’t try the knock offs.  They don’t compare to this awesome device and aren’t worth the minimal money saved.

3. Milkies Milk-Saver—Wearable Breast Milk Catchers

The Milkies Milk-Saver is a unique way to avoid wasting or losing breast milk, because we all know every drop counts.  You wear the Milk-Saver and it collects any milk you have from leakage.  It can be used on one breast while you’re nursing on the other or you might even buy two of these bad boys to wear when you might be going a little extra time between pumping.  Although they claim to be discreet, the general consensus is that they’re a little bulky for continuous wear.

Have you tried any of these products?  Do you know of some other super cool, not mainstream product you wish everyone knew about?  Tell me in the comments below!

Foods that Boost Breast Milk Production

Ever heard of lactogenic foods?  These are basically just foods that are chemically beneficial to the production of breast milk and could, potentially, help increase your milk supply.  Many moms struggle with low milk supply and producing enough breast milk to satisfy their baby.

This can sometimes be amplified by returning to work and/or not responding well to the breast pump while away from baby.  Other than nursing or pumping often, certain foods can naturally benefit lactation.  Whether you eat these foods raw or whip them up into a yummy cookie recipe is up to you.

Drink

• Water
  
• Lactation Teas
  
• Coconut Water
  
• Barley Water
  
• Some imitation coffees
  
• Ginger Ale

Related Post: 3 Things Killing the Breast is Best Campaign

Eat

• Carrots
  
• Asparagus
  
• Green Beans
  
• Yams
  
• Sweet Potatoes
  
• Watercress
  
• Green leafy vegetables
  
• Peas
  
• Beets
  
• Oatmeal
  
• Brown Rice
  
• Barley
  
• Most grains/legumes
  
• Avocados
  
• Raw almonds
  
• Cashews
  
• Macadamia nuts
  
• Apricots
  
• Green papaya
  
• Parsley
  
• Salmon

Related Post: 14 Breastfeeding Facts

Spices & Herbs

• Garlic
  
• Ginger
  
• Onion
  
• Basil
  
• Fenugreek
  
• Dill
  
• Marjoram
  
• Turmeric
  
• Fennel

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30+ Recipes For Boosting Lactation

Breast milk production is heavily influenced by supply and demand from baby (or pump, if you’re an exclusive pumper).  However, sometimes that just doesn’t seem to be enough and we need a little extra lactation boost.

Certain foods are known to help increase milk supply for breastfeeding and pumping moms.  To help stave off boredom with eating oatmeal everyday, all day—or one of the other lactation superfoods—some pretty genius moms have come up with a variety of recipes that can help boost milk supply.

Lactation Smoothies & Shakes

• Very Berry Breakfast Lactation Smoothie by Fresh Milk Mama
• Simple & Healthy Green Lactation Smoothie by Fresh Milk Mama
• Lactation Boosting Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Milkshake by We’re Parents
• Nutella Lactation Smoothie by Lemons & Laughs
• Lactation Boosting Peanut Butter Apple Pie Smoothie by We’re Parents
• Banana & Cinnamon Lactation Smoothie by Sarah Lampley
• Pumpkin Pie Lactation Smoothie by Little Lovelies
• Lactation Lemonade by The Leaky Boob

Related Post: 4 Tips For Breastfeeding & Working

Gluten & Dairy Free Lactation Recipes

• Chocolate Chip Lactation Banana Bread—Gluten and Sugar Free by Kara’s Pregnant
• Dairy Free Lactation Cookies by Houston Moms Blog
• GF Vegan Apple Pie Lactation Muffins by Suburban Hippie Homestead
• Grain Free Lactation Cookies by Real Everything
• Allergen Friendly Lactation Cookie Bar by The Eco Friendly Family
• Gluten Free Milk Makers Bars by Home Field Fitness
• GF Vegan Labor & Lactation Energy Bites by The Better Birth Doula
• GF Vegan Dairy Free Peanut Butter Lactation Cookies by Healthful Mama
• Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies GF & Dairy Free by Above Hoarded Gold

Lactation Cookies & Other Baked Goods

• M&M Lactation Cookies by Steel Cut Oats
• Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Lactation Bars by The Cocina Monologues
• The Miracle Milk Cookie by Lifestyle Hunting
• Homemade Double Chocolate Lactation Cookies by Butter Cream Sugar
• Lactation Brownies by HBC Organics
• Blueberry Oatmeal Lactation Muffins by Fab Haute Mama
• Pumpkin Spice Lactation Cookies by Premeditated Leftovers
• Chocolate Chunk Lactation Cookies by Steel Cut Oats
• Lactation Banana Chocolate Chip Bread by The Llama Mama
• Easy Lactation Muffins by Finding Sanity
• “Pump Up Your Milk” Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins by Love and Zest
• Butterscotch Lactation Cookies by The Baker Chick

Related Post: Storage Solutions for Freezing Breastmilk

Other Milk Boosting Goodies

• No Bake Lactation Protein Bars by We’re Parents
• Chocolate Almond No Bake Lactation Cookies by Small + Friendly
• No Bake Lactation Bites by The Baker Mama
• No Bake Lactation Power Protein Balls by Clarks Condensed
• Milk Booster Overnight Oatmeal by Mummy Lil Thought

Your Comments About My Pregnancy Are Not Wanted

As I get more pregnant, people get more loose lipped and brazen with their assumptions, comments, and so-called jokes.  I am just shy of 39 weeks pregnant when writing this, so it’s quite obvious that I’m pregnant.  I get that.

And I don’t mind the polite questions or conversation, even if it is repetitive and I’ve already had this same conversation with 5 million other people.  Or the fact that I’m a surrogate and some of the questions (well, a lot of the questions) don’t even really apply to me.  However, I don’t want to have to explain being a surrogate to every. single. person.

Related Post: 6 Reasons Your Kids Don’t Belong on Facebook

In case you’re wondering, it’s really not that cute or funny when you’ve heard something like, “Wow, you look like you need another one” for the third time in a day.

I’d also like to make a PSA that any of these types of comments are not appreciated either:

You need the lay off the cheeseburgers.

Are you serious right now?  This isn’t appropriate to say to anyone.  Ever.  It’s just rude.  I get that you’re just acknowledging my obvious pregnancy, but I could definitely do without the acknowledgement if this is how it’s going to be done.

You’re not suppose to swallow the watermelon seeds.

My intense eye rolling cannot be conveyed appropriately through a blog post, but I’ve heard about 100 too many watermelon related jokes.  Or basketball references.   It’s really not that cute.

Related Post: 14 Quick Breastfeeding Facts

There’s something wrong with the water here.

Believe it or not, we (the pregnant ladies) are not all congregating around you on purpose.  Just because there are two of us in the same county, doesn’t mean you have to go on and on about the quantity of pregnant women in the area.

You haven’t had that baby yet?

No.  Thanks, though, for pointing out that I’m still pregnant.  I didn’t notice myself.

Any comments about my size/baby’s size.

Oh you think baby is going to be huge?  Oh you think I’m huge.  Well, I surely appreciate your unnecessary assessment.

Related Post: 4 Reasons to Cloth Diaper

Try this instead…

Okay, so once when walking through the grocery story, a young woman passing me by simply smiled and told me, “Congratulations.”  I don’t know if it was because I was 30+ weeks pregnant or what, but I felt like that was the sweetest, simplest gesture anyone could make.  I didn’t get hounded with questions by a (well meaning, I’m sure) stranger.  She just simply congratulated me and I kind of wanted to hug her.

I think it’s important to remember that we are pregnant for 40 (sometimes very long and miserable) weeks.  Our hormones can be crazy.  Our emotional state may be questionable.  And it can get really outrageous with all the comments, questions, and so on from friends, family, and complete strangers.  Instead of cracking a joke, try a kind and simple gesture.  If you’re close to the person, offer a hand.

6 Perks to Being a Young Mom

So I’m not even 25 and I have 3 kids.  Some people might read that and be like, “Okay, so what?”  Other people are flabbergasted.  It really depends on your circle and your own personal beliefs on whether being a young mom is the norm or not. 

My oldest was born when I was 14, so I’ve had comments all over the place about that, because most people just assume I’m the one who birthed him and that I was got pregnant at 14.  Not that, even if that were true, that gives them anymore right to their sometimes rude comments and assumptions.

Being a young parent can be crazy, but definitely has its perks.

1. I’ll be a young grandparent.

Unless all 3 of my kids wait a really long to have kids, I’ll have grandkids by my early to mid 40s, if not sooner.  I think it’ll be great to be that young and, most likely, still have my health and the energy that I currently know it takes to interact with little ones!  I’ll be able to play with them and babysit them and all around enjoy them in a way that I might not be able to if I was older.  This is probably even more true for great-grandchildren, which I’ll probably have a few of by 60 to 65.  Basically, it’s great to know I’ll likely see several generations of my family in my lifetime!

Related Post: 21 Ridiculous Things All Parents Say

2. I have the energy now!

Kids are exhausting regardless of if you have one when your 19 or when you’re 40.  I get that.  I just can’t help but think about all the effects of aging on the body I keep learning about in my pre-nursing classes, though.  The truth is, I’m young now and taking advantage of the perks of youth by pouring my life and energy into motherhood and other things (marriage, college, etc); instead of taking it one life step at a time.

3. We grow and learn together.

I have the opportunity to grow and learn with my kids.  All parents change from the people they were before children, but I mean this in a different sense.  I’m still in school and can relate to my children in that aspect and I’m still developing as a person and I’m not so set in my way.  I feel like my children have a lot of opportunity to see me mold into the person I will eventually be, and I hope it can be comforting to them as they grow and learn about themselves and who they are.

Related Post: Relieving Pregnancy Pains Without Medication

4. I can relate to them!

It hasn’t been that long since I was a kid, even if some days it feels like an eternity.  I feel like I can more closely relate to my children, their experiences, and how they’re feeling because there really isn’t a huge time gap between my childhood and theirs.  Heck, sometimes I still get called a “baby” by coworkers or others that are part of similar life experiences as me but older.

I’ll be a young empty nester.

So when my youngest turns twenty-one, I’ll only be forty-three years-old!  That’s so young!  Now who knows if my nest will be totally empty by then, because kids don’t just magically disappear at the age of 18 and phase into adult life and their adult homes.  I’m just imagining that my husband and I will both be able to enjoy each other and just whatever stuff we want to to do still because we’ll be pretty young!

5. I have time to return to my career.

If I want to take time off to dedicate to moming or just to have a break from pursuing my career goals, I’m still young enough where, theoretically, returning to the workforce shouldn’t be as challenging as if I were older; if for no other reason than I have plenty of time to rebuild momentum.

Related Post: 10 Chores for Toddlers

6. I’m still kind of cool, right?

I’m not totally out of sync with what’s currently trending.  And even if I am, it’s probably because that’s how I’ve always been without caring much for what’s currently “cool.”  So, this one is more of a joke than anything, because I’m a mom now, so I’m sure I’m definitely not “cool” and haven’t been for a long time.

I’m not sure if there is a perfect time to conceive, socially or biologically.  There are all kinds of studies that have produced varying data and come to all kinds of conclusions.  So, basically, do whatever works for you, right?

Are you a young mom or did you wait to have kids?  What prompted you to be one or the other?

Bed Time Expectations vs Realities

Bed time.  You know…  That glorious time of the day where your children fall into their innocent dreams and you finally get some much needed peace, quiet, and alone time—probably at the expense of your own sleep.  Yeah, well, I hate bed time, and I know I'm not the only one.
Sure, some nights are exactly like that mom fantasy.  Some nights the kids are even asleep early enough where I’m not sacrificing too many winks of my own for a little me time.  However, there are many nights (like tonight) that I loathe bed time.

Related Post: Tips to Maintain Your Love Life After Kids

We shared a bed with our youngest for most of her infancy and a large majority of her toddlerhood.  She’s two and half now and still sleeps with us…whenever.  There’s no real “rule of thumb” here for whether or not that’s happening one night a week or all seven.

Sometimes my expectation for bed time are met, but with three kids, it feels like there’s always that one that has to make it difficult at the end of the day when I’ve almost hit my max moming limit or it’s a day I just really need the munchkins to go to sleep.

Here are some expectations versus their alternate realities at my house.

Cosleeping Expectation

Toddler and I (and maybe one or both of the boys) snuggle in together and loll into a dreamy, loving sleep surrounded by those we love.

Cosleeping Reality #1

Toddler rolls around for 30 minutes, cries about not being able to find her cup of water, kicks me in the rib cage, argues over whose pillow she’ll sleep on (mommy’s or daddy’s), and an hour later I’m wondering why I didn’t just put her in her own bed and will I ever get to sleep?
Related Post: Today I Was a Bad Parent

Cosleeping Reality #2

All of #1 plus add in one or two more kids, being hot and squished and possibly peed on and really thinking that going and sleeping on the boys’ bunk bed is a better idea.

Crib Sleeping Expectation

Put toddler in her bed with her sippy cup of water, pillow, blanket ,and probably a baby doll.  Sit in chair next to crib for 10 to 30 minutes while she settles and falls asleep, possibly requiring you to hold her hand.

Crib Sleeping Reality

Toddler cries because she wants her sippy cup (it’s right next to her).  She practices her awesome jumping skills.  She might even be quiet for forty five minutes but starts crying the second I exit the room.  An hour and a half later and I wish I would have just waited an hour to put her to bed.

Older Kids Bed Time Expectation

Tell six and ten year old boys to go to bed.  They have bunk beds but prefer to share a bed and will chat for awhile before falling asleep.

Older Kids Bed Time Reality

Wrestlemania is happening but only after each have taken their turn peeing, getting a drink, interrupting you trying to put the toddler to bed, and so on.  They are acting like they each just had an energy drink and being so loud you have to separate them to their own beds as punishment, but in 45 minutes they’ll come ask to be reunited and actually go to sleep like you told them to the first time.

Related Post: 6 Tips for Promoting Tummy Time

When it’s good, it’s great.  But bed time can be a real PIA and days like today, I’m feeling the struggle.  I just want to say forget it and let them run rampant until they’re exhausted and we all pass out.  Unfortunately, I have to be up at 5AM and bed time has to happen.

Bed Sharing Safety Tips

Bed sharing, a lot like breastfeeding, is still a very taboo parenting choice in many Western countries.  Of course, this is when you’re out in public or talking to your pediatrician.  The reality is, a lot of parents have shared sleeping space with their infant, toddler, or older child…probably quite a few times!

It’s one of those parenting choices that comes with so much judgement!  Also, everyone seems to be an expert and there’s so many conflicting facts and even more opinions, that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and maybe even guilty.

The most important thing…

The most important thing I can say and stress is that parents who bed share should do so intentionally!  Many dangers can be eliminated simply by making the intentional choice to bed share—sometimes called co-sleeping, though co-sleeping can be room sharing or bed sharing.
Related Post: 6 Ways Babies Benefit from Babywearing

Safe sleep surface

If you’re going to host the family bed, then the bed needs to be safe for your little one.  Eliminating risks of entrapment, suffocation, and falls is the priority here.

1. Take your bed off its frame, so it’s closer to the ground.
   
2. Make sure you have a firm mattress.
   
3. Keep room at a comfortable temperature, so you can eliminate excess blankets, pillows, etc.
   
4. Pull bed away from wall and remove other risks that might provide opportunity for baby to become trapped.

Don’t be a risk factor!

Part of being an intentional bed sharer is knowing what conditions and choices can make it inappropriate and, most importantly, dangerous for you to sleep with your baby.

1. If you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including many prescription drugs), then you shouldn’t bed share with your infant.
   
2. If you’re obese, then it can be dangerous to share sleeping space with your baby.
   
3. If you’re overtired, your child is safer sleeping solo.
   
4. If you’re a smoker, you shouldn’t sleep with your baby because of the increased risk of SIDS.

Never ever, ever…

Couches, loveseats, recliners, etc. are never a safe place for baby to sleep.  This is true for parents who sleep with their babies, as well.  There are lots of reasons, but at least one is all the crevices where baby can slip or slide and become stuck and strangle, suffocate, etc.

Where to learn more?

If you want more information about bed sharing, room sharing, co-sleeping, or just are seeking general knowledge about family sleeping arrangements, then here are three links that can help you!

• KellyMom on Co-sleeping and Bed Sharing—Includes an abundance of links to other resources, as well.
  
• University of Notre Dame Mother-Baby Sleep Lab—Has lots of info, as well as guidelines about sharing sleeping space
  
• James McKenna and FAQs about Co-sleeping

Related Post: 10 Awesome Pieces of Parenting Advice
There is no one “right” way to do this parenting thing, so if you’re considering bed sharing or maybe bed sharing has chosen you, then safety is what is important!  Finding what works for your family is what’s important and remembering that all children are different is helpful, as well.
Nothing in this post constitutes medical advice and I’m not give medical or “professional” information.  I’m simply a mom sharing info with others who, hopefully, find it useful and thought provoking.
We love bed sharing in our home, but it’s been different with each of our kids.  How do sleeping arrangements work in your home?

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Motherhood from the Bathroom

When we bought our house, there was my husband, myself, our Kindergartener, and our toddler.  Three bedrooms.  One—large—bathroom.  Now, we’ve added our daughter, a cat, and two large dogs.  Suddenly, our house—and especially the singular bathroom—doesn’t feel quite so large, or big enough at all, really.

However, based on what all the other moms (and some dads, too) are saying…I don’t think it’s the one bathroom that’s the issue.  It’s just the reality of parenting, where you have one or four bathrooms, one or six kids.  I’m not the first to notice. 

Patti of Insane in the Mom Brain, who is totally hilarious, and a collection of other bloggers published I Just Want to Pee Alone in 2013, which went on to be a four book series.

Now that I’m up to three kids, three pets, and a husband…Well, bathrooms—or bathroom, singular, rather—do not equal privacy in this household.  We didn’t even have a door on our bathroom for at least two months after the last one literally came off the hinges.

Bathroom Realities of Motherhood

Eating in the bathroom.

I don’t want the kids to eat anymore cereal.  I want cereal.  I’m hiding in the little “cove” our toilet sits in, eating a bowl of cereal while the tea I’m boiling on the stove boils over and karma bites me in the butt.

Related post: 5 Step Parent Confessions

Everyone’s bladder is on the same schedule.

I’m seven months pregnant and I have to pee.  Suddenly, I’m racing a toddler in a diaper and my six year-old to the only toilet in the house because everyone else now has to pee, as well.

The tub doubles as a toilet.

While my kids have never peed in the sink, like some of my friends have at parties, it’s probably just because they’re too short to reach it.  The tub, on the other hand, regularly gets peed in (see last point) by kids and adults, alike.  My toddler may have finally grown out of pooping in the tub every time she takes a bath.

Can I join you?

I hope you don’t mind the close proximity of toddler hugs or a neglected cat who wants to be pet while you’re trying to poop.  Because since you’re sitting still for a few moments, everyone is demanding to take that time to get in some snuggles.  Or maybe you’re in the shower and the only way the baby is getting bathed is with you.  Even my cat likes to live life on the edge—of the tub—while I’m trying to shower and the dogs try to sneak in and get a lick of the delicious shower water.  If I try to shower by myself, I’m “caught” 99% of the time by an already-half-stripped small child demanding to get in the tub for the fifth time today.

Related Post: 4 Tips to Get Kids to Enjoy Reading

All eyes on you.

Maybe this one time, you actually don’t have a small child trying to sit on your lap or a feline who is taking advantage of the empty space for some quick petting.  Well, if they’re not sitting on you, they’re staring at you.  I hope you don’t have a shy bladder, because I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had a dog laying at my feet staring up at me or a kid watching me for no particular reason.

Real talk.

My kids always have the most pressing questions when I’m on the toilet or in the shower.  If they’re miraculously otherwise occupied, my husband absolutely has to show me the “funniest” YouTube video ever or tell me that same story he told me yesterday.

Sure.  Lock the door.  I dare you.

Before our door came off the hinges and we replaced it with another, the bathroom door was the only interior door with a working lock.  First, I can’t tell you how many times I was locked out of our only bathroom because a kid had messed with the lock and then closed the door when exiting.  Second, when you lock the door as the parent, all the previous points still apply except you now have kids and pets on the outside of the door in a state of panic because they can’t reach you.  The littlest children are probably crying and hysterical and the older ones can just yell their questions through the door or tattle on each other or narrate exactly how upset the littlest is.

Related Post: Today I was a Bad Parent

Basically, the bathroom stops being a place for private, long, hot showers and sexy time with your significant other.  It stops being where you spend an uninterrupted hour getting ready—makeup, hair, etc—every day.  It’s almost as much a family gathering place as the dining room.

Maybe that’s not your reality.  But it is mine.  What’s motherhood from the bathroom like at your house?

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Beginners' Guide to Cloth Diapers

Modern cloth diapering is not your grandma's safety pins and some wash cloths...or those ugly plastic pants at Wal Mart. Reusable diapers have come a long way, with a plethora of options. This is great, except it leaves parents feeling overwhelmed.

Cloth diapering can be a wonderful experience with the right information and tools. I have compiled some info to get you started.

Different Cloth Diaper Types

There are different types of cloth diapering options, because we love to make it overwhelming, right? No, really, it's just like there's a variety of disposable diapers. Every parent, baby, and lifestyle is unique and that's why there are so many options of cloth diapers. What's perfect for you might not be the right fit for your neighbor.

All In Ones

Also called AIOs.  AIOs are cloth diapers considered to share the most similarity to disposables. They're all one piece and most are somewhat customization because of a pocket option to add extra absorbency.

Pockets

Pocket diapers are basically a "shell" of a diaper that has a pocket to put whatever inserts/absorbency you want in them.

Covers

Covers are PUL, waterproof diaper shells that you can use with folded prefolds or flats laid in them or with fitted underneath. You can typically reuse covers multiple times in one day by simply wiping out the shell and allowing it to dry.

Hybrids/All in Twos

Hybrid systems and AI2s are combination systems. The most popular are cover-like systems with snap in inserts, but there are other kinds that combine multiple cloth diaper options.

Related Post: 4 Reasons to Cloth Diaper

Washing Cloth Diapers

When it comes to cloth diapers, this is probably one of the biggest reasons we lose parents. People are often 'grossed out' by the thought of washing poopy diapers or completely overwhelmed with the often contradicting advice.

I wholeheartedly recommend Fluff Love University as a resource for washing cloth diapers. The website also has a plethora of other information and a facebook group where you can live feedback!

For a beginner, here are some important and relevant cloth diaper washing facts:

• You do not need to rinse out diapers of exclusively breastfed babies. Breastmilk poo is water soluble.
  
• Older toddler poo often rolls right off into the toilet without you having to rinse the diaper.
  
• Fabric softener is not cloth diaper friendly.
  
• Homemade detergent is a no go.

Related Post: 6 Ways Babies Benefit from Babywearing

Buying Cloth

You can buy cloth diapers used on facebook buy, sell, trade groups like Cloth Diaper Swap or on DiaperSwappers.com. You can buy new cloth diapers from a variety of places online and, if you're lucky, a local retailer. Places like Kelly's Closet and Diaper Junction are good starting places.

So, now you have some info to get you started. I hope you're not feeling too overwhelmed. Feel free to drop a comment or question and I'll do my best to answer!

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