@Mango-Animal Thank you!

@Katieabney Thank you so much for the advice!

Here in solidarity. Following to hear advice!

Oh I know this feeling and it is SO HARD. It’s really hard. When I dropped my first daughter at daycare I cried and cried. So much so that the Director of the place walked me to my car the first day because I just couldn’t leave. I just could not leave my baby.

And then….once things settled, it was the greatest relief. I was working full time, my husband was deployed, I did not realize until I let go, the anxiety I was holding. Once I knew she was safe and sound, I felt so much relief. I realized I could be a working mom, my child would be cared for, and I could (try) to find a balance. I’m a mom of three, most who I took to daycare at 6-9 weeks old because I had to, but as a mama who has done it: some days are really tough, but you got this! Give yourself grace, all the feelings you have are valid. One of the most amazing things is all the awesome caregivers they will meet and friends your children meet along the way ️

We’ve heard amazing things about Angel Fire Resort, not specifically an Airbnb recommendation, but it’s our top choice right now based on research and friends recommendations: https://www.angelfireresort.com/

Hi Mamas- I need some advice. I have a five year old who has become extremely emotional. Not in the outburst tantrum kind of way, but when her feelings are hurt, if she gets hurt, if something is not perfect, she cries and cries. And it’s not the trying to get attention type of crying, I’m a mom of three girls and this is a first. She seems to feel ALL things to her core. Like..if she makes a mistake, she cries. If she has a fight with her sisters she cries, if she is worried about something she cries. Sometimes she just hides and cries. Has anyone experienced a highly emotional child like this? And any advice? My heart is breaking for her and I try to tell her that we can solve all problems but her emotional state is alarming. How do I help her through this?

Band-aids! I know it sounds crazy, but hear me out. My kids love putting on band-aids, trying to open them, trying to stick them on, it all takes up time, which is exactly what you need - an easy, lightweight, packable distraction. I bring a box of whatever kid kind I can find at Target and let them go to town, and bring a sandwich bag for the trash.

I normally order pizza enough for the kids and sitter (and I always hope there is some leftover for me when I get home ). For some tea....one time I ordered sandwiches and a large dessert for the kids and sitter. The next day, my kids told me that the babysitter didn't share the dessert with them and ate it all once they went to bed.

I’m with you here! But the best option is to use credit cards that work to your advantage. Sign up for the Barclays Upromise Card and connect your points to a 529 account. Spending money BUT all the points go to a college fund if you connect it to a 529. We put all expenses on two credit cards and for the Upromise we have earned nearly $9k in my oldest’s 529 the last few years just in those points alone. Also, sign up for cards that work to your advantage- Marriott Bonvoy will offer points for free hotel rooms and vacations for all the credit card usage!

I've bought from Boden the last two years, and really like the fit -

https://us.boden.com/products/kythira-ruched-tankini-oceanside-blue?variant=46950567248124

https://us.boden.com/products/santorini-halterneck-swimsuit-french-navy and

I love the advice above about talking about it ahead of time, and having something to look forward to next, even if it's a coloring book or an activity at home or a song they get to play in the car. I really struggle with transitions with my middle child, so I totally feel you on this question. Here with you in solidarity - transitions are so tough!

Any ideas for Father's Day? I'm struggling with the balance of summer schedules and managing all the things at our house...so to be quite honest, I'm not enthusiastic about planning an extravagant Father's Day. I haven't planned or bought anything yet. Ideas that could be ordered or handled this week? Maybe a gift card is in order this year...

Chocolate Hummus with strawberries!

My other go-to is chocolate hummus mixed with oats, chia seeds, peanut butter and a little bit of honey.

Hi! We make smoothies regularly and my kids love them, but I’m trying to find ways to add protein without ruining the flavor. Any no-taste protein powders you love? We’ve tried milk, milk alternatives, cottage cheese, yogurt, Fairlife protein shakes…but all give it too much of a milky flavor. Would love some ideas!

I have two favorites:

Barclay Upromise Card- you connect to your child’s 529 account and it automatically deposits rewards there. Over the years it’s added up to an extra $9k in my oldests 529! Definitely worth using for all things.

My other favorite is Marriott Bonvoy- we use this throughout the year also and earn free hotel stays.

As much sleep as you can! Laundry, dishes, whatever can wait, just go to bed when the kids do and get whatever rest you can. Once you feel better, all life things will be there waiting but that’s ok while you take care of yourself. Vitamin D, Vitamin C and if I start to feel a cold coming on, I also like to get an IV from health/wellness places to replenish vitamins and hydrate. *Also not a doctor but hoping to help!

I have a medium size plastic bin for each sport that is labeled, and kept in the garage, I throw everything in the respective bin and when we go to any sports, I toss the entire bin in the car (and hope and pray everything is really in there).

Just posting for solidarity as well, you are not nuts, I feel this all the time. I have three kids and know we are done but I can’t help but wish I could have more kids, or that I had started younger, etc.

Meal Delivery Gift Card, Massage Gift Card, anything for the mom is my go-to!