yes, i would be shocked if most moms haven't felt this way at some point. This isn't the ultimate solution (or maybe it is) but an ssri helped me get back on my feet. I tried zoloft (breastfeeding) and citalopram (post breastfeeding). I preferred citalopram bc I felt like it was easier to start and end, but i'm sure everyone is different. Just a mom not a dr.

When we go to the beach, we don’t do a lot of structured play. We jump the waves on the shore, my bigs swim, we dig in the sand with basic sand toys. Each girl gets a seashell pouch (mesh so sand and water drain out) so they have fun collecting shells and treasures. And we often use the collections to make art in the sand, draw with sticks, etc. They love burying themselves, chasing the birds, and watching any ships or dolphins that pass! The only other things we might bring are snacks, speaker for music, and the beach game kuub (though that’s geared more for adults).

As far as activities at the house, our favs are puzzles, happy salmon, exploding kittens, and basic crafts. We’ll sometimes bring a single mic too for karaoke night!

No idea, but our pediatrician once told me that younger kids GI systems move slower and so it takes longer for them to get over stomach stuff. So it's not abnormal for them to feel better and then puke again. That's a really non scientific way of explaining what she explained to me but that's how i understood it. Godspeed!

We do Vitamin D all year round but make sure not to skip a dose in the winter months. We also high dose it once a week (obvi talk to your pediatrician about this first).
Other than that I send hand sanitizer to my kid's classrooms and extra clorox wipes and pray to the flu gods to spare us.
Oh, I also cut back on my kids activities to make sure they're getting at least 5 nights of solid sleep a week in the winter. They need it. Lots of low key hanging right now over break instead of running them ragged.

Yes! The Sunnyside app. It's basically like a low key personalized accountability app that helps you set goals, track and keep them in a low pressure way. I sound like an advertisement but I swear I'm not LOL! For those of us that need a little help in this area it's been great. I have used the soberish plan but they also have a completely alcohol free plan too. Best of luck! I' so much happier when I feel in control of my beverage intake

One pot chicken orzo from The Defined Dish. So easy and so good. Use boneless chicken thighs
https://thedefineddish.com/creamy-one-pot-lemon-feta-chicken-with-orzo/#wprm-recipe-container-22551

Right there with you. Ours was $17,000 last month. Childcare and food are our biggest expenses. I’m certain meal planning would help cut back but I work full time and that’s something I can’t commit to right now

Sending my first to kindergarten. Can I get your most helpful tips? Thanks!!

I’ll be honest, I’m not in the best shape of my life but it’s a goal to get there. I’m struggling with all the things above. Morning is really the only time, or if I can block my calendar first thing after drop off but then I’m on back to backs all day trying to catch up. Maybe I need a less intense job?

Definitely kid dependent. One of my teacher friends told me that they are having trouble keeping the “older” kids engaged during the day at school. So that’s something to consider if your child is smart.

@clingingtogood this is brilliant!!! Do they have zones for picking up? How do they not fight about how much or whose stuff they are putting in their basket?

EltaMD clear or tinted is what I use and I have a lot of friends use too. My derm sells it and my Botox gal. Can order on Amazon too