Cleveland Clinic is the Choice for Children’s Heart Care Needs

Cleveland Clinic is the Choice for Children’s Heart Care Needs

“This post was sponsored by Cleveland Clinic Children’s as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central. All thoughts and opinions are my own.” I was born with two heart murmurs- a ventricular septal defect and an atrial septal defect. Now, while this may sound scary what it really means is that I was born with two holes in my heart. The atrial region is the upper region and the ventricular is the lower region. What it meant for my parents was an extra day in the hospital and then a trip to Houston to see a specialist. The holes closed on their own though and I’ve had no ill effects. That was over 30 years ago and I’m thankful to have all of that…

How to Make the Most of a 10 Minute Power Shower

How to Make the Most of a 10 Minute Power Shower

We only have so much time in the day, so how do we make the most of it? Well, to be honest, it really does start with the morning. I’m partnering with Schick Intuition to bring you tips for making the most of a 10 minute power shower. Sometimes it may even be less, but I’m being generous to myself and allowing 10 minutes. As a #SchickAmbassador I’m more than happy to share my routine. First, let me set the stage. On a “typical” (and I use that word loosely) morning, the alarm clock goes off at 6:00. It is then silenced for another glorious 30 minutes before Kyle gets out of bed. Five minutes later I’m usually up while our toddler continues to sleep…

The Practical Parent’s Guide for Raising Responsible Kids

The Practical Parent’s Guide for Raising Responsible Kids

Do you tend to do too much for your kids? Do you hold your kids accountable for their actions? What about chores and responsibilities at home, what are your expectations for your kids? These are just a few questions that I find myself asking when it comes to watching the kids around me on a daily basis. I also wonder about my own parenting skills in terms of how Squeaker is being raised. I want her to be grateful, respectful, and I want her to be aware. I want her to be confident and self-assured. I want to parent her with love and compassion. I want to make sure that I’m raising a child with character. I still worry constantly that I’m not doing enough…

How to Parent with Compassion
|

How to Parent with Compassion

It’s happening again. You can feel your stress levels rising as your toddler clings to your leg, constantly repeating: mommy, mommy, mommy. No amount of counting to 4 will help you in this moment as you desperately try to recall the mantras of positive parenting. Your stress levels only increase as you eye the unwashed dishes in the sink or the toys strewn across the floor. Toys that you just finished picking up before your toddler decided that they were made of Velcro. And regardless of what society says, a glass of wine or a shot of tequila seems like a great idea. Even if it is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Because you know that there’s still time before your…

Do You Know the Number for Poison Control?

Do You Know the Number for Poison Control?

“This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. All opinions are 100% mine.” As parents we want to do all that we can to ensure that our children are safe and taken care of. Sometimes we may go a bit overboard in our efforts, but most of the time- we do mean well. But, we also know that we can’t protect them at all times for all situations; especially the little things that we might overlook. For example, one of the most important phone numbers that you could possibly know is the one for poison control. But do you know the number for poison control? As your baby starts to move around the house, it is extremely important…

3 Important Tips for Moms of NICU Babies

3 Important Tips for Moms of NICU Babies

Having a baby is an exciting prospect, filled with ups and downs until that joyful day that you get to meet your bundle of joy. For NICU moms, the premise is the same but also involves the emotional roller coaster that goes along with having a premature baby. I’ve been down that road twice which is why today I want to share my tips on motherhood for NICU moms. And if you’re in need of more resources, be sure to check out my motherhood resources and inspiration page. Why can’t I hold my preemie right away? Many moms dream of the moment that they’re able to hold their baby for the first time. This is usually right after birth or soon after depending on what…