I first learned about Brenna shortly after she was born. News came from my sister-in-law, a best friend to Brenna’s mom, Courtney Westlake, that the little girl -- born just before Christmas -- was fighting for her life due to a rare skin condition. This sweet fighter named Brenna not only survived but eventually thrived. I first followed her story through Courtney’s blog and was always amazed … [Read more...]
The Terrible Twos: My ‘Guide’ to Survival
The little girl in our house has reached the terrible twos. The mama in this house? She’s learning a whole ton about patience… and trying not to pull her hair out at the constant phrase, “I don’t want that.” Time to get dressed? “I don’t want that.” Time to put on shoes? “I DON’T want that.” Time to walk out the door? “I DON’T WANT THAT.” She grows more and more insistent. She gets angrier and … [Read more...]
20 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas Under $20
I don’t know about you, but I often find it hard to ask for things that I “want.” So when people like my hubby and mom ask what I’d like for my birthday, or for Mother’s Day, I often gravitate toward the things I need. (Honestly, let’s be real, sometimes I just *need* a nap or a clean house). While a clean home is very much welcome as a gift, I think it’s also important to pamper and shower our … [Read more...]
Lessons in Resilience and Never Giving Up
I love the age Little Miss is at right now -- almost two years old. (Then again, I feel like I say that at every new “age.”) The connections she’s making, the words she’s learning, her bubbling personality. Everything! Of course though, with growing up and learning so much, she’s also discovering the world doesn’t revolve around her every want. With that new realization, I’ve already seen the … [Read more...]
20 Things Moms Say to Themselves to Get Through The Day
A couple weekends ago, before heading out of town, I needed to get Kafka the bulldog over to his DogVacay sitter who lived a good four miles away. This didn’t used to be a big deal. I’d throw his travel kennel, food, and toys into the car, load the dog up, and go. Not anymore. With Little Miss in the equation, combined with city living -- aka, my car is parked out on the street -- things are a … [Read more...]
