Henry Goes to the Beach
July 23, 2014Every summer for over twenty years I have gone “Up North” to Harbor Springs, Michigan. Spending summers there is something I am very grateful for. I’ve made new friends over the years, catch up with old friends, experience new things, and, in most recent years, spend extended time with my family. This experience has become Read more (…)
Sick Babies
July 16, 2014Oh man, I have come to the conclusion there is nothing sadder than a sick baby! Today marks day 9 of my 11 month old being sick. She is finally getting over a rough bout of coxsackie but is now battling a terrible cough and runny nose. At this point in her life, I definitely Read more (…)
Baby Proofing: The Vicious Cycle
July 2, 2014I’ve finally figured out the ultimate baby-proofing technique: full body armor, equipped with helmets and kneepads. Kidding (sort of). Baby-proofing is extremely tricky. Once you think you have it figured out, those little explorers beat the system again and again. The climbing is the worst. What are you supposed to do? Remove all of your Read more (…)
Talking, Technology, and the Terrible Twos…
June 25, 2014Three months ago my sweet Henry wasn’t saying much. These days he has a lot to say! Henry has a sound for almost every animal, names for his toys and objects around him, and will have in depth conversations with me about some very serious topics. I have NO IDEA what he’s saying, but I Read more (…)
Another Father’s Day
June 23, 2014Father’s Day has been bittersweet for me. Celebrating Father’s Day with my kids is always a happy, fun time, but then there’s the sadness I feel that goes with the loss of my dad and grandfather. They were both great example of what Fathers should be and they left a positive, lasting effect on my life. When I look Read more (…)
Life with Two!
June 18, 2014We were blessed to welcome our second daughter into the world in early April. As much as I don’t love being pregnant, I found myself extra thankful this time around to have nine months to mentally prepare for life with two. It also gave us time to build excitement with our ever-so-sassy 3 year old. Read more (…)
The Importance of Date Night
June 11, 2014Pre baby, my husband and I had a great tradition of Friday night being date night. My husband is a real planner so usually on Wednesday, Thursday morning he would start the convo via text/email about where we should go for dinner. We would try our best to come up with new places to go in neighboring towns, or even Read more (…)
The Sweetest Sound
June 4, 2014Almost exactly one year ago, my husband and I moved from New York City to Arlington, VA with our five month old baby girl. Within days of our arrival, I learned about the local cooperative playgroup and knew it was something we wanted to do. I also knew we had some time to wait as Read more (…)
Breakfast at Tiffany’s
June 2, 2014Once upon a time there was a beautiful, young bride to be who wanted to step in Audrey Hepburn’s shoes for a day. So on the day of her bridal shower in her own backyard, the tables and chairs were adorned with Tiffany blue covers and chair ties, tables decorated in pearls, the famous black sunglasses, gift Read more (…)
A House Hunting We Go!
May 26, 2014My daughter and her family are planning on moving back home. So, on my last visit I agreed to drive back home with her and the kids so she could house hunt. Being an avid House Hunter television show watcher, I thought this would be great fun. Of course I forgot the fact that we Read more (…)
Don’t Eat the Crayon!
May 21, 2014“Don’t eat the crayon!” “That’s HOT! Don’t touch!” “Henry, don’t share all your dinner with the dog!” “Put the iPad DOWN!” “No, you can’t have the knife!” “Stop licking the floor” “Please keep your diaper on!” Welcome to Toddlerville! That pretty much sums up my recent conversations with my 19 month old. I should have Read more (…)
My First Official Mother’s Day
May 14, 2014I have celebrated many a Mother’s Day throughout my lifetime, celebrating and honoring my mother and then my sister as well when she became a mother to twins 7 years ago this month. I never thought to much about the holiday, in fact I have no idea if it falls on the same day every Read more (…)
A Happy Mother’s Day Thank You to my Daughters
May 12, 2014You came into my world so small And I was I wonder of it all When you first placed your lil’ hands in mine I knew you’d have my heart until the end of time We’ve gone through a lot throughout the years Happy times, hard times,conquered all the fear I can’t imagine my life Read more (…)
Bittersweet Birthdays
May 5, 2014At my age my birthdays are becoming bittersweet. On one hand I’m glad to have reached another birthday, but I also become more aware of my youth slipping away. I will concentrate on the positive. I so enjoy the days leading up to my birthday when cards arrive and I stand reading them through blurred eyes Read more (…)
Built In Best-Buddies
May 2, 2014Watching the relationship between my twins evolve as they grow is truly remarkable. I’ve been thinking about how lucky they are to have each other and to never feel alone. It makes me comforted to know that they will (hopefully) have each other’s backs, to have a friend to laugh with, to cry with, always. Read more (…)
Best Dressed Lil’ Frankensteins
April 28, 2014Another busy trip to the east coast led me to my granddaughters’ front door for another wonderful visit. They are now walking stiffed legged and arms out like lil’ Frankensteins. They are so proud of themselves as they giggle and lunge toward you, looking for praise for their accomplishments. My daughter had them dressed in the Read more (…)
Spring: A Season of Change
April 23, 2014With the changing of the seasons in Chicago comes many new milestones in our lives. Henry has hit the year and a half mark and with that comes many changes to his appearance, personality, physical abilities, and his language skills. He has sprouted like the flowers in the ground and now all his pants look Read more (…)
Happy Rainy Birthday to You
April 21, 2014Two daughters, two granddaughters and myself took a five hour trip to help my 29-year-old celebrate her birthday. Besides the five passengers, the car was packed with two portable cribs, two booster seats, a twin size stroller, diaper bag, food bag, and four pieces of various sized luggage. It’s exhausting just writing it all down! Read more (…)
Say Yes to the Dress
April 14, 2014My oldest daughter is getting married soon and her wish growing up was to someday wear my wedding dress. So she asked me if she could have my dress and make the alterations needed to modernize it in to a shorter version. I said yes to the dress and on my last visit in NYC we had a Read more (…)
From Farm to Baby
April 9, 2014I have always considered myself a healthy eater by moderate standards; I never eat fast food, I eat my fruits and vegetables, I buy whole grain pasta etc… However, ever since having my daughter and entering the world of solid foods 2 months ago, it is amazing how quick the tables have turned and I Read more (…)
Mr(S) Clean
April 7, 2014Have you seen the latest Mr. Clean commercial when he is a baby learning his trade and sharing with others the joy of cleaning? I feel like my baby picture should go along side of Mr. Clean’s. I heard my daughter recently tell me that one of my daughter’s comments to her was, “I love Read more (…)
Lets Play!
April 4, 2014As parents and caregivers we all know how fun it is to play with the children we love and care for. Depending on the child, their age and developmental level the way we play will vary. One of my favorite ways to interact, engage and be an active participant when working with children is facilitating Read more (…)
Bridesmaid Shopping for the Over 50 Crowd
March 31, 2014Many girls are pleasantly surprised when asked to be a bridesmaid; imagine my surprise when my daughter asked me to be her matron of honor. I quickly rebutted,” Why do you want me in that role?” She answered, “Because you are the most special person to me.” Of course this response turned on the waterworks. Well now Read more (…)
How to Balance Motherhood with the Rest of Your Life
March 19, 2014Undoubtedly motherhood is the most important and challenging job. Whether you stay-at-home or have returned to work, it’s a struggle to balance it all. Cue the mommy guilt. I have yet to meet a mother who hasn’t admitted that at some point she has felt overwhelmed, inadequate, or finds moments where she just wants to Read more (…)
The Luck of the Irish to You
March 17, 2014My “baby” had some unfortunate complication from back surgery two years ago. Her doctor commented that this is only the third time he has seen this happen in his 10 year career. A distinguishable fact I could live without. So I flew her back home so recuperation could be more comfortable. There’s no place like Read more (…)
Daycare Drama
March 12, 2014I have had the amazing privilege of being able to take an entire year off of work to spend it with my daughter. I am a teacher and I gave birth to my daughter at the beginning of August. It was right about this time a year ago that my school and I came to Read more (…)
From One Mom to Another
March 5, 2014It’s been a little more than a year since my daughter was born and in that short time, I have laughed more, cried more, played more, loved harder, and slept less than I ever have in my life and I am happier, healthier and more fulfilled because of it. I’ll be honest, I was a Read more (…)
Time flies when you’re having…babies!
February 26, 2014I cannot believe my girls are 1 year old! The last year pretty much feels like a blur with glimpses of sleepless nights, giggles, dirty diapers, and cuddles. People have always told me that this happens and to cherish every moment. I could not stress this advice more. Things aren’t always easy when you have Read more (…)
Living in a Snow Globe
February 19, 2014I’ve really tried to not complain about the weather this winter, but it’s getting harder and harder as winter stretches on and on. I’m from the midwest, I grew up in the harsh winters, but this has to be the worst one I’ve ever experienced. It literally feels like I’m living in a snow globe Read more (…)
Happy Birthday!
February 17, 2014You are Grandma’s lil’ miracles that have grown to be one year. Both cute as a bug and precious to hug So nice to cuddle and hold near. I hope turning one is happy and fun as you stumble from table to chair. I remember the first time I held you kissed you and whispered your Read more (…)
Back to the Babies
February 10, 2014With all the adult plans and excitements, I can’t forget to mention spending time with the grandbabies! At eleven months they are the most fun. They walk around objects holding on for dear life, squeezing through nooks and crannies all the while watching to see if you were going to chase after them. Crawling around Read more (…)
An Engagement Affair to Remember
February 3, 2014What better place to be on a cold winter’s night than in a warm loft apartment over looking the Empire State Building in NYC? I’m used to the 400 square feet studio apartments that my daughters have lived in. This place was fit for a wedding venue. And whoever said New Yorkers weren’t friendly has not had the Read more (…)
Sleep Training… or Torture?
January 29, 2014My daughter Ashton will be 6 months old in two weeks and up until this point I would say that she truly has been a very easy baby. She is my first, and so I have nothing to compare her to; however, from what I have read, and heard from fellow moms, I can say Read more (…)
Happy First Birthday!
January 22, 2014On Sunday, my baby girl turned one!! How did that happen so fast? Wasn’t I JUST wearing maternity clothes? Wasn’t she JUST born? I don’t know that a year has ever passed so quickly in my life! I was prepared for the countless hours scouring Pinterest for first Birthday party ideas. I knew I would Read more (…)
Happy New Year
January 20, 2014It has been a year of many blessings for our family. First, the birth of our beautiful grandchildren who have really enriched our lives as well as make us feel our age. We have added a wonderful new son-in-law as well as watched our once-upon-a-time-tomboy daughter turn into a gorgeous bride. Another daughter expanded her Read more (…)
Sick Baby: 1, Mommy: 0
January 16, 2014Life has been quite the whirlwind lately. The girls have been so out of whack with their sleep schedules; on top of it, one of them came down with an ear infection, teething, and I’m pretty sure roseola all at the same time. I have never felt so helpless. As a mom, you try night Read more (…)
Dreaming of the Family Holiday
January 13, 2014Starting on the Saturday before Christmas the clan started coming home. My daughter with the twins came in, so did their four suitcases portable crib, booster seat,boxes of diapers, food, toys and various other items. The family room soon turned into a kid friendly fortress that required adults to crawl in and out of, along Read more (…)
Henry in Hawaii
January 8, 2014When your parents offer to take you to Maui, you don’t turn it down, even if it you have to travel all that way with a very energetic 14-month old! Bob and I thought long and hard about how we were going to keep Henry happy, comfortable, and entertained for a 15 hour travel day. Read more (…)
Mama Bell’s Return & The Bellbonic Plague
January 6, 2014Looks like my hiatus has ended, being summoned back by the boss. So, to get you all caught up: I finished planning a wedding, had a wedding, then the entire family caught the flu,went to New Jersey for a family Thanksgiving,had the family in for Christmas, my oldest got engaged, started planning that wedding and now getting Read more (…)
Classes Galore
December 18, 2013It is unbelievable how many classes there are for babies—yoga, music, swimming…..the list goes on and on. During my pregnancy—when talking to other moms-to-be—a question that often came up was “what classes will you be signing up for?” At the time, I had not given it any real thought, but of course my mind flashed Read more (…)
Enjoy the Little Things in Life
December 16, 2013I think I’m learning as much from my little girl as I am teaching her. And usually, the biggest lessons come in the simplest moments, like the other day as I watched her eat cottage cheese. She carefully picked up one kernel at a time and placed (sometimes shoveled) each piece into her mouth. Every Read more (…)
Babies’ First Christmas
December 4, 2013To me, Thanksgiving officially kicks off the holiday season which is now in full swing. This has always been the most wonderful time of the year (insert Christmas music), and is so much more meaningful now with our new additions. Of course I’ve already bought two sets of Christmas pajamas and elf hats for Christmas Read more (…)
A Year of Thanks
November 27, 2013There are so many things I am thankful for. Life is pretty good, but I’m especially grateful for all the people in my life who help me be a great mom (it takes a village!). I have a great husband who is present, physically and mentally, in our son’s life. He gives me the breaks I Read more (…)
Gobble Gobble: The Healthy Way
November 21, 2013This Thanksgiving, LLD is featuring a special blog post on how to stay healthier while still making your kids happy. We’ve compiled some of the best healthy recipes from around the web and compiled them here for your healthiest Thanksgiving yet. Appetizers: Ditch the heavy cheese dips and chips before the big Thanksgiving meal. Creating Read more (…)
Dress to Impress- Holiday Edition
November 13, 2013I LOVE holidays!! They are just plain fun…I enjoy a good themed craft project, I like to dress myself and my home up, any excuse for a party is a good one, and don’t even get me started on finding the perfect gifts! I have always loved them, but now that I have a daughter…..oh Read more (…)
Vacation Together, not Home Alone
November 12, 2013We’ve all seen Home Alone. The movie opens up with mass chaos during the evening leading up to a big family vacation to Paris, France. Kids are everywhere, food is flying, and adults are struggling to pack. Eventually, a child gets left behind in the continuation of the chaos the next morning. Now, I’m not Read more (…)
“It’s Amazing You All Survived”
November 6, 2013For me, my mother is and always has been a wealth of information on a variety of topics; since having my first child, she now more than ever is my first call for just about anything. However, it is clear that quite a bit has changed since the day I was just a wee one. Tomorrow is Read more (…)
GO GO GO!!!
October 28, 2013In the hustle and bustle that is NYC we are often in a state of moving, planning, coordinating and executing! Parents and caregivers know this dance all too well! As parents strive to ensure their children are safe, eating healthy, getting adequate sleep, attending the best schools, and having frequent play dates, there is still Read more (…)
You’ve Never Heard of a Cornbox?!
October 23, 2013Fall is a great time of year. The trees are beautiful, the temperature is just right, and there are a lot of great outdoor activities to do. Having a child who is old enough to participate in the activities, is awesome. There are so many things that the city and surrounding areas have to offer Read more (…)
Murky Waters
October 21, 2013As a woman who has nannied professionally for years and also has an educational background in Social Work and Early Childhood Development, I have worked with children, families, and caregivers in a variety of ways. I am privy to the nanny’s perspective, the family’s perspective and what my own experiences have taught me. So, what Read more (…)
Mama Bell Is Back For Her Last!
October 14, 2013Recently while visiting my daughter in NYC, I had the opportunity to meet and have dinner with her boyfriend’s father, who was visiting his son from Texas. Visiting may be the wrong verb, as we were both in the city for the same reason: to help our children with their prospective business start-ups. We sat Read more (…)
Shopaholics continued
September 30, 2013After refueling (with chicken salads) off we went. It’s close enough to Halloween that we both had the urge to decorate inside and out. Toledo has no shortage of greenhouses or stores so we had a field day gathering pumpkins bales of straw, gourds, scarecrows and mums. On the front porch went the scarecrow, bale Read more (…)
Shopaholics 101
September 23, 2013My husband dropped me off on Saturday at a friend’s house, just like my dad used to do in high school, before continuing on to a nearby bachelor party for our son-in-law. Meanwhile, we had hours of fun filled shopping planned for the day: places I wanted to go, places she wanted to go and places Read more (…)
Why Hire a Nanny?
September 20, 2013With our nanny week coming to a close, we thought we’d share why you should get a nanny for your family: Highly educated nannies have knowledge to draw off of and are often great built in tutors for your children Nannies help take a load off of working parents. They can help complete homework, tidy up, and Read more (…)
Having a New Baby? Get Your Nanny, Get Your Baby Box!
September 19, 2013As you probably already know, it’s NANNY WEEK here at LLD, so we’ve been talking to a lot of new moms. A common theme keeps recurring — they are all, understandably, looking for anything and everything to help simplify their lives! So we figured this would be the perfect time to introduce many of you Read more (…)
Just a Spoonful of Sugar
September 16, 2013WANTED: LOVING NANNIES! Recipe for your perfect nanny! Lucky Lil’ Darlings has acquired New York Nanny Center (NYNC) and is pleased to be offering the service of nanny placements… now you too can have a Mary Poppins! Ingredients needed: 1 cup of responsibility 3/4 cup each of love and care 2/3 cup intelligence 1/2 cup creativity Read more (…)
The Bell Family Nanny
September 9, 2013When I went back to work after having my last baby there was a big problem. I had five kids, one going to part time kindergarten, and no babysitter or nanny. So I enlisted the help of a newspaper, friends and family to help with the search. Unfortunately, I did not find anyone I felt Read more (…)
Personal Assistant 101
September 4, 2013If I would have had the foresight, I would have minored in business administration in college. For the past two weeks I’ve been my daughter’s personal assistant in her childcare agency in NYC. Ask me an education question and I’ll probably have an answer,but ask me a business question and I may appear helpless.This is Read more (…)
Back to School Time
August 27, 2013As I watch one back to school commercial after another, I can’t help but reflect back on my years as a teacher. I have such admiration for teachers as they have a daunting, often thankless job and sometimes end up dealing with bad press: “teachers are paid too much for what they do,” “they have summers Read more (…)
Last minute baby shower ideas
August 23, 2013Planning an end of summer baby shower & need some last minute ideas? Provide onesies for all attendees & encourage them to decorate. You can buy iron-on backed material at Joann Fabrics or some place like that then ask everyone to draw some shape, cut it out and have an ironing board set up to Read more (…)
You’ll Go Bananas for This Recipe
August 19, 2013For years my family had gone to a dear friend’s Labor Day Cookout. They have a huge family so it’s more like a wedding guest list than a typical picnic. Every family is asked to bring their favorite dish to share so it turns out to be a smorgasbord for every and any palate. It’s Read more (…)
One Month Down
August 16, 2013If you had told me a year ago how happy appliances would make me, I would have laughed in your face. Now, my favorite phrase is “I’m going downstairs to throw a load of laundry in the wash.” MY downstairs and MY washing machine; not the coin operated machine around the corner that the entire Read more (…)
Attack of the Growing Babies
August 7, 2013Being a newbie mommy, I find myself constantly adapting to my babies’ ever-changing ways. This (and the lack of sleep) have been the most challenging part of mommy-hood thus far. I was starting to get used to the girls sleeping a good 6-7 hours a night, now they’re up every 4 hours again frantically searching Read more (…)
Summer Vacation (Post-Baby)
July 31, 2013The two words teachers love the most are “Summer Vacation.” In fact, one of the reasons that I became a teacher was so I could enjoy two months of vacation from work. Every summer for the past 18 years I have gone to Harbor Springs, Michigan and had the best time. I could sleep in Read more (…)
Vacation Crashers
July 29, 2013My husband and I are referring to ourselves as “vacation crashers” as we just left one daughter’s family in Cape Cod and are about to join another in DC. We are accompanying her to the Chesapeake Bay Hilton resort for a business retreat. As teachers we surely never had such an opportunity before. The resort was Read more (…)
Wacky Weather
July 26, 2013All these crazy heat waves and cold fronts are a great opportunity to teach the lil’ ones about weather, temperature, and the instruments that measure temperature: (homemade) thermometers! What will you need: Tap water Rubbing Alcohol Clear narrow necked plastic bottle (water bottle will work just fine) Food coloring Clear drinking straw Modeling clay or Read more (…)
A Day on the Farm!
July 24, 2013Avery was born in New Jersey and has lived in 3 States and 4 Cities in her short lifetime. All of our stops along the way have been large cities….the Big Apple, ATL, and the Windy City. But there is nothing she loves more than a book, song, or story about the farm! I have Read more (…)
Cruisin’ to the Cape
July 22, 2013On the road again, but this time not to babysit, we were the grandparents along for the family vacation ride. Growing up, my grandparents always were with us for family events including vacations and I loved having them along. They were the patience that counteracted my high strung father. This 14 hour trip was dotted Read more (…)
The Tim Allen Show
July 15, 2013As I mentioned last week, my anniversary getaway included the talents of the comedic actor Tim Allen. Even though the years have aged him since Home Improvement and the series of Santa Claus movies, he kept me in stiches for over an hour. He reminisced about his childhood relating age appropriate antics with the audience. Read more (…)
Just When You Think No One is Listening
July 8, 2013What a nice surprise to find your children actually listen to you! I had a nonchalant conversation with my daughter one day which landed my husband and I in Atlantic City, with a hotel room at the Borgata, and tickets to see Tim Allen. Happy 35th anniversary to us from the kids! Whoever was behind this elaborate scheme Read more (…)
Time For A Change
July 3, 2013This Sunday, my little family and I are moving from New York City to Washington, D.C.! My husband has lived his entire life in the tri-state area and I have been here for fifteen years, so it’s a BIG change for both of us. Yet, somehow I don’t feel as scared as one might expect. Read more (…)
Grandma’s NYC Escape
July 1, 2013My daughter and her family had Father’s days plans with his family so I had a chance to escape to visit my daughter in NYC. Bright and early, 6:15 to be exact my son-in-law dropped me off at my daughter’s apartment on his way to work. I arrived earlier than expected due to no traffic Read more (…)
Make Travel Hassle-Free!
June 28, 2013Unfortunately for parents, the word “travel” has become synonymous for “nightmare.” This blog post is dedicated to parents traveling with children this summer and a few easy tips on how to make the experience better! Preparing for your trip: It is important that your children are prepared for your trip physically and mentally. Make sure Read more (…)
Grandma’s Back
June 24, 2013I came back to help out with the babies as my daughter was going back to work. I thought it would be nice to make her transition easier knowing I was here with the kids. Being away for a month makes you forget what hard work it is. Back to juggling two energetic grandbabies and trying Read more (…)
Quick Swim Tips for a Safe Summer
June 21, 2013Swimming has always been a popular summer activity. However, it is also a dangerous one. According to Parents Magazine, drownings are still the leading cause of accidental death for kids ages 1 to 4, so you can’t be too vigilant when it comes to water safety. There a few recommendations we have to help make Read more (…)
Henry Takes Flight
June 19, 2013I’ve heard about it. I’ve seen people do it many times. I feared it to be honest, but the time had come. It was unavoidable. We were taking our first flight with a baby. I quickly sent out an S.O.S. memo to my “Baby Mamas” asking them for any travel tips they had, what to Read more (…)
Flop House on Clark Avenue
June 17, 2013Two families merged this past weekend for a celebration of Baptism. One family came from Ohio, and others from New York, Boston, Washington DC, Philadelphia, and Ireland. Our family of eight planned on staying in my daughter’s house, a 3 bedroom bungalow. Then came the in laws from Ireland and a brother and his wife. Upon Read more (…)
Post-Pregnancy Working Girl
June 12, 2013This is tough. Yesterday was my first day back in the office from my maternity leave. The whole week prior I found myself crying sporadically thinking of having to leave my two little babies at home. Even the smallest things would set me off…a smile, greeting cards at Target…you name it. I should have had Read more (…)
Summer is Here!
June 5, 2013After many long and cold winter months, summer seems to have arrived! I truly believe parenting gets easier in the summer time. Kids can play for hours outside without ever getting bored and then pass out at bed time because they are so worn out. Only real negative to parenting in the summer is the Read more (…)
Red, White, and Cute
June 3, 2013I waited anxiously for the pre-Memorial Day arrival of my visitors from the east coast, praying all day that the white Nissan would come safely up the driveway. Well, my prayers were answered when the door opened and one crying baby was plopped into my arms. I was in heaven. My daughter busily emptied her Read more (…)
A & A Take Ohio
May 22, 2013The “alarms” go off at 6am. Amelia wails out & then her sister follows. The girls just turned 3 months & it’s time for their first road trip to mommy’s home state…good ole Ohio. My sis & I tag team getting the twins ready for their long ride; feeding (with an extra ounce of milk for the Read more (…)
Garage Sale Mania
May 20, 2013I’ve had many garage sales through the years, mostly when the kids were young and I’d sell toys and clothes to make money for new toys and clothes. And everytime I had one, I’d say to myself that it’s the last one I’m going to have. But when my oldest pal called me and told me Read more (…)
Junior’s Fresh: Food For Your Baby
May 17, 2013Wondering how you can incorporate seasonal fruits and veggies from local markets into your lil’ ones diet? With Junior’s Fresh, you don’t have to wonder or worry! We asked Michelle Hoffmann, the founder of Junior’s Fresh, a few questions about how it works! What is Junior’s Fresh? Junior’s Fresh is dedicated to providing New York Read more (…)
A Trip Down Memory Lane
May 13, 2013Remember when… You sat for hours smiling at your newborn’s face Your house smelled like a combination of diapers and spit up The best conversation you ever had involved cooing It was celebration time when there was pee pee in the potty Tears fell after saying goodbye to your child on the school bus on their Read more (…)
We Love Spring!
May 8, 2013Spring is finally here! After a very wet and rainy April, Henry and I are super excited for the warmer weather in Chicago. Some of the best things about living in Chicago over the past 11 years are all the outdoor activities you can do. After what seemed like a never-ending winter, Henry, my husband, Read more (…)
Young at Heart
May 6, 2013I left some of my loved ones in New Jersey and hooked up with another loved one, daughter #4 in Philadelphia where she lives, for the ride home. So off we went on the yellow brick road (aka 76) to Ohio. She is getting married soon and wanted to work on some wedding necessities for the Read more (…)
Vintage Furniture for Modern Kids
May 3, 2013Finding the perfect furniture for your lil’ ones’ room can be a challenge. It’s sometimes hard to balance your aesthetic with a kid-friendly feel that your lil’ ones will enjoy. Lora Appleton, curator & co-founder of kinder MODERN, is our go-to for finding functional and playful pieces for lil’ ones that they will love! We asked Lora about what Read more (…)
It “Only” Took Three Months
May 1, 2013Our daughter just turned three months old, and each time she does something spectacular like track an object with her eyes or make a cooing sound or reach for a toy, we write it on her calendar. You know, we’re tracking milestones. Well, this weekend I feel like we reached a milestone as a family. Read more (…)
Epilogue to the Diaper Diaries
April 29, 2013What surprises am I in for? As I pack for the trip back home to Ohio I am anticipating the worst homecoming. In the past, when I’ve left my husband home alone, there have been some unfortunate surprises upon my return. Once when I went to Chicago he set the kitchen on fire damaging the Read more (…)
And Then There Were 4
April 24, 2013I can’t believe my little angels are already 2 months old! It’s been such a whirlwind of love, laughter, and tears. I wouldn’t change any of it for the world. Becoming a mom has already taught me several things, with infinite patience and love topping off the list. I’m still learning and every day brings Read more (…)
Diaper Diaries Week 8: The Final Entry
April 22, 2013This will be the last entry of the Diaper Diaries. I can’t believe that 8 weeks have passed, time flies when you are having fun. Even more so when you are engulfed in sleepless nights, little miracles, a lot of hard but gratifying work and a bunch of crazy love. I leave with mixed emotions. On one hand I’ve been Read more (…)
Easter Extravaganza
April 17, 2013We had a great Easter with Avery. Now two years old, this was really the first time she was able to experience some of the things I did with my family growing up. She LOVED the Easter egg hunt with her cousins. While she didn’t exactly find the highest number of eggs, she thoroughly enjoyed Read more (…)
A New Kind of Job
April 10, 2013As a new mom (or dad) one of the first big choices you have to make is whether or not you’ll be returning to work after your little one is born. For some this choice is easy, but for others you agonize over the “right” decision. In my case it was easy. I could NOT Read more (…)
Diaper Diaries Week 6
April 8, 2013‘Twas the night before Easter and all through our house Every relative was stirring, hopefully not a mouse The baskets were all hidden around with great care In hopes that the Easter bunny would soon be there The children were nestled all snug in their cribs, others on couches and blow-up beds While visions of breakfast and Read more (…)
They Were Right!
April 3, 2013In my first ten weeks as a mother, I have learned that “they” were right. Who’s they? Everyone who ever repeated the following words of wisdom to me. “Once you see your child’s face, you don’t remember the pain of labor.” I heard this one over and over and I thought, no way is this Read more (…)
Diaper Diaries Week #5
April 1, 2013After 5 weeks, the babies are growing and changing quickly. Fortunately, Grandma is much better now at calling out the correct baby names.Even though the twins are fraternal when they are wrapped up in their blankets with very little face shown it’s a detective’s nightmare to tell them apart. At times my daughter runs errands and Read more (…)
The Art of Juggling
March 27, 2013Sorry I have been M.I.A. as of late; this is my first blog post-pregnancy and life has been a little hectic! I cannot believe how consumed I am with love for these two little beings that I’ve nicknamed “pumpkin” and “angel.” Now I cannot imagine life without them. I’ve titled this blog “The Art of Juggling” Read more (…)
Diaper Diaries Week #4
March 25, 2013Grandma is a little emotional. I thought that I held it together rather well during labor and delivery. My family made fun of me for being a jokester, but being silly is my defense mechanism for nervousness. I think after all that stress, I emotionally crashed. While I was singing Elvis Presley’s “Wisemen” to one of Read more (…)
Scrub-a-Dub-Dub. . . It’s Bath Time!
March 22, 2013Dear Ask-A-Sitter, What are some tips and reminders for bathing infants that you can share with me? Sincerely, Scrub-a-Dub-Dub Dear Scrub-a-Dub-Dub, Bath time with your lil’ one can be a great way to show your lil’ one that getting clean can be fun! But, before you get to the fun splashy toddler age, it’s good Read more (…)
3 Ways To Incorporate Me Time Into Your Schedule
March 21, 2013Let’s face it, finding a little “me time” when you have laundry, dishes, work, after-school activities, and more on your plate every day is next to impossible! So, we asked 24Ours to help us out with a few tips for finding a way to put a little “me time” in the day. “Getting away from Read more (…)
Vacationing with a Toddler
March 20, 2013After a long basketball season as a wife and daughter of a Coach, we decided to take a little vacation to Florida to reconnect as a family. Avery, who just turned 2, is now old enough where we can build excitement. We told her for weeks that we were going to Florida on an airplane Read more (…)
Diaper Diaries Week # 3
March 18, 2013A typical day in paradise begins about 7AM with the squawking that signals feeding time. One baby for me, and one for Mom or Dad. You would think they twins would be ready to eat, but they seem to need coaxing for a few minutes as their flailing hands make bottle entry next to impossible. After Read more (…)
Tips & Tricks for Feisty Lil’ Ones
March 15, 2013Dear Ask-a-Sitter, My pre-k’er NEVER listens! I’m losing my patience & don’t know what to do. Help! -Cousin Kel Dear Cousin Kel, Losing your temper with a child this age never works & chances are you’ve tried the all-understanding patient approach. . . and STILL he/she does not follow your instruction. Here are a few Read more (…)
To Swaddle, or Not To Swaddle
March 13, 2013With two new nieces, my mind has been completely taken over by all things BABY. One thing in particular that I have been obsessed with is swaddling. The twins were literally taken from the womb & placed immediately into a swaddle. This simple technique mastered by many hospitals to comfort a newborns is preached to Read more (…)
Diaper Diaries Week # 2
March 11, 2013Oh, those sleepless nights as I sit here writing this with heavy eyelids.My days are filled with diaper changes,every three hours feedings,swaddling, bathing, all those innate behaviors that have come back with a vengeance.The inside of my daughter’s house is a cross between a florist and Babies R Us. I’ve definitely been getting my exercise waiting on Read more (…)
Fussy Baby Means Sleepy Parents
March 8, 2013Dear #AskaLLDSitter, I am a new mom who is trying to get our newborn to sleep. Any tips to help us with our fussy night owl and avoid sleep deprivation? Best, Sleepyhead Dear Sleepyhead, Funny that you should ask that question. I was recently having that same conversation with Winter Parris of Winters Play Place, who helps new Read more (…)
Baby Milestones
March 6, 2013Our little boy is 4 months old already! It is amazing how fast time is going. Everyone told us that the first six weeks were the most exhausting, and in some ways they are, but they are nothing compared to what we’re experiencing now! Our Henry was a great sleeper from the start. He would Read more (…)
The Diaper Diaries: Week One
March 4, 2013My stubborn grandbabies entered the world via C-section despite my daughter’s desire to have a natural delivery. Thirty minutes before the unanticipated surgery I was called to the hospital. So in the cold,30 mph Manhattan winds, one of my daughters and I ran across the Upper East Side to be by another daughter’s side before Read more (…)
Worth the Wait
February 25, 2013This past week has been a LOT of waiting, but it was all worth it! Thursday: My husband and I headed for the east coast for the hopeful weekend of babies. We jockied trains and subways and learned what it feels like to be sardines in a can. The night ended with a calming dinner Read more (…)
Priorities
February 20, 2013I have heard many of my friends tell me they are a mom first, wife second. And now that I am a mom, I completely understand that you always have to put your child first…his or her needs always take priority. But I sometimes feel that at the end of a long day, I don’t Read more (…)
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