When I’ve experienced death in the past, there has always been an adult to take care of things, to be there for those who are grieving, to make really hard decisions, and to help with closure. Over the past two weeks - I’ve been that adult helping my family through the unexpected passing of my mother-in-law.

Time can be illusive. Even though we can count the hours in each day and fill our day with activities, time is intangible. Two years with my son doesn’t feel like two years, especially when I’ve been with him every day of those two years. I don’t think I blinked yet here we are.

The last time I called you baby, I didn’t know it would be the last time. The last time I napped with you, shouldn’t have been the last time. The last time I changed your diaper was a change toward freedom and independence. There have been many “last times” we shared when you were a baby and there are so many more first times for us as a toddler. I miss you, baby. I miss who you were as a baby. I also love you as a toddler and who you are becoming as a person.

Taking a few moments to journal about your life can provide perspective, a little bit of self-care, and immense opportunities for reflection and gratitude. I hope this inspires you to take a little time for yourself to reflect on the life you are building, the influence you have within your family, and the legacy you are leaving behind.

We all were trying to figure out a better way to manage the week instead of having the week manage us. My husband and I intentionally created balance among our personal, family, and professional needs and we fiercely protect that balance each week. We use a “Sunday Family Check-In” to talk about these great conversation starters:

• Personal schedule

• Professional schedule

• Meal prep for the week

• Household chore checklist

• Personal check-in

• Marriage & relationship check-in

• Podcast pick

What has come from these conversations is a deeper connection with my husband, a clearer understanding of each other, and a team-based approach to managing our week. It’s been amazing and I hope you consider adopting a Sunday Family Game Plan in your life.

Learning about eczema was not on my radar when I first became a mother. There were so many other “priorities” and chronic skin conditions just weren’t on the list. I wish I would have known how common eczema is with children, especially under the age of 4, and how I could have better helped my son with his eczema. Hindsight is always 20/20. For those of you who are learning about eczema, checkout my beginner’s overview for eczema and tips on how we have managed this.

The hidden costs of hiring a babysitter or a nanny are far reaching and complicated. I recently learned the financial impact of this on a personal level and want to share my experience with you. I got really familiar with the IRS’ requirements, taxes, and laws around “household employees.” Let me walk you through it.

Everyone needs to eat and figuring out a budget for groceries can be a challenge. I like to approach my family as a business and understanding our cash flow really helps our family make ends meet. Our family uses these principles to manage our grocery budget:

• Get comfortable talking about money.

• Create and stick to a budget.

• Maintain a consistent grocery order.

• Limit the number of times we order take out.

How much money can a library save you and your family this year? Libraries offer free books, audiobooks, and e-books. They also have toys, tv shows, DVDs, and board games! Libraries connect people, provide learning and exploration, and support the community!

Sensory bins and play are a rising, modern parenting trend. Can we talk about these? Are they worth the money? Let’s have a conversation around: (1) defining sensory development and its importance, (2) defining sensory play, (3) identifying average attention spans of infants and toddlers, (4) sharing average cost of pre-made sensory bins, and (5) providing cost-effective sensory alternatives.

Hi! Who is excited for summer? I am! This pale body really needs some sunshine, warmth, and beaches. My ongoing mental to-do-list is growing with things like purchase sunscreen, aloe vera, bug spray, and other items my family needs for the summer. Before going on Amazon to purchase all these items - let’s take a moment to talk about how to pay for these items. It may not be what you think!

Reading books can offer each of us so many opportunities than just the straight-forward, cover-to-cover text. I’d love to hear your perspective on the value books bring. Share your ideas and opinions with me.

I was recently asked how I like to read books - a physical book, an e-book, or an audiobook. I have a personal preference for many reason and would like to share that with you!

I am starting Mama’s Book Cellar to create value for those who parent, support parents, and are looking to build community. Check out my blog to hear my story.