Erin Loechner
How to Choose a Meaningful Baby Name
Choosing a baby name can sometimes seem like a daunting task with so many factors swirling about: Will it stand the test of time? Is it too trendy? Too dated? Do the initials spell something embarrassing? The good news, of course, is that if you choose a meaningful name that embraces sentiment, purpose and character, the rest kind of all falls into place. Here’s how!
Thank You, Mom
Dear Mom,
So many of my childhood memories are wrapped up in you, woven between the threads of skinned knees and dance recitals. And although I never forget to say “I love you,” I often forget to share another heartfelt expression: “Thank you.” Of everyone in the proverbial village who raised me, your fingerprints left the deepest impression – molding and shaping and leading me with each patterned whorl of your delicate hands. So today, it’s time for a “thank you” – a letter of appreciation for leaving your mark on my life in so many beautiful (sometimes odd and unexpected) ways:
How To Entertain a 9-Month Old Baby
I don’t know if it’s Bee’s personality or her age, but entertaining this 9-month old has proven to be quite a challenge these days! Bee has always preferred constant, new stimulation, but lately we’re experiencing her need-for-speed at a whole new level. Luckily, we’ve landed on a few tips and tricks along the way. Here’s how we’re keeping Bee entertained (and trying to keep up while we’re at it!):
A Mother's Day Treat
I never quite understood the importance of pampering yourself until I became a mother. The sheer physical exhaustion of lifting and toting around an eighteen-pound baby (not to mention marathon rocking and swaying sessions if your little one sleeps as poorly as mine!) is taking a toll on my upper body, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t in dire want of a relaxing pedicure every now and then. So this Mother’s Day, pampering goodies are high on my own list to give (and get!) for all of the mamas in my life. The good news? Disney and basq have teamed up to create the most luxurious line of spa-inspired beauty products – named after my favorite Disney ride: It’s A Small World. And the better news? The entire collection is 25% off from now through May 12th. Here are a few of my favorites I plan to gift to my own beloved mamas!:
Our Weekend Getaway
Road tripping with a baby who hates her car seat seemed daunting at first, but after a particularly cold and rainy spring, Ken and I were feeling the itch to inject some sunlight into our lives. Here in the Midwest, that means traveling to the lake for some much-needed rest, relaxation and rejuvenation (as much as is possible with a 9-month-old who still fights naps and sleep regularly, that is!). So last weekend, we packed up the car, cooler and bags and made the trek to a friend’s cottage for a weekend of no make-up, no technology – and, perhaps most importantly, no itinerary whatsoever.
