In Austin, Devenir is the cheapest but still safe/professional that i've found. They run sales all the time so get on their text list. $11.50/unit

I really like my Hemlock hat and my sunshine tienda hat. Both are quality and nice but not over the top expensive. You can also find designs that aren't like every other basic mom out there

Agree with the other moms that said the build up was the worst part. Try your hardest to keep anxiety low (i know, but like, how?). Say "no thank you" to any extra projects for at least 6 months. There are so many major transitions happening for you and your baby the first year of their life that I think it helps to keep demands in other areas low. Unless you are thriving it at work, then by all means, go girl!
I had to pump a lot in my car-there is a car power cord for your pump that you can use in your car. Also there are a ton of wireless pumps now. That could be great for pumping at work if you don't have a set pumping room (which is the law but i know many of us work in the field).
Don't feel bad for pumping. Don't feel bad if your baby gets sick and you need to stay home or work from home. I let too many outside influences dictate my stress level. It's all part of life and we need women in the workforce for a healthy economy therefore we need to support moms.

Pack all your bags the night before. Start daycare or a nanny several weeks before going back to work to get some type of routine down. And take advantage of that time by doing something for YOU.

Some of the best advice I was given is to "be where your feet are". When you're at work try your hardest to be at work mentally, and when you're at home try your hardest to keep the laptop shut and focus on your fam.

YOU GOT THIS!!!

Don't come after me but we use paper bowls. I cannot handle little kid dishes right now for everyday. If it's anything that leaves a mess like oatmeal, macaroni and cheese etc I use paper. I actually do regular bowls for things like cereal and noodle that is easy to clean and I just use our family bowls which is likely a terrible idea.

oh gosh would love to know the answer to this! Does anyone actually like their printer???

Since I became a mom i really like Lands End swimsuits. Some of them are def grandma chic but they have become way more fab over the years and most are super cute now. I typically get a plain black one and throw a cute sarong and you're good to go. Full booty coverage and sucks you in. Nothing is gonna accidentally slip outta there

I have no formal training in this but I feel like 8yrs old is old enough to say "this is something to do in private and not in the pool with other people". Just my two cents, definitely don't shame her but we have this same conversation with our kids about burping etc "this is something you do in your room or bathroom and not around other people". Also should it be okay for boys? Idk, seems like the same conversation should be happening regardless of gender of keeping that in private.

I'm crashing and burning over here. Hoping to get into a groove soon but it's hard when it's a different camp/different drop off each week. I did not anticipate this and i'm regretting not getting more support for myself. I'm working on hiring more babysitters moving forward. Working feels impossible!
I need to remember this for next Summer. Hire. The. Babysitters.

Also love the Abercrombie jean shorts. Really the only shorts I have found that I enjoy. For workout shorts I do skorts and running skirts. Target always has good ones. Old Navy has good running skirts too (just check the fabric to make sure it's not cotton). Athleta also.

@everythingisfine I found myself not using it as much for daily calendar but just reloaded everything for Summer to keep everyone on the same page. So during busy seasons or "off" schedules I definitely still use it. Also have maintained for chore charts. My kids still love the dopamine hit of finishing their chores and getting the confetti

Lost creek park is shaded, has a bathroom and a pavilion to rent out. Bee Cave park has the same. Rollingwood park is also shaded but unsure on the bathroom situation.

We're actually going through this right now and I left a message for his doctor (he was scheduled to go in) and expressed my concern and asked him to check in on my husband. Bc of HIPPA he can't follow up with me but I'm hoping he at least talked to him about options. This was last week so this is unfolding right now.
It's really hard, i'm sorry you're also going through this. Sending positive vibes your way
I also think this is way more common than is talked about, so thank you for asking this.

the beginning and end of Summer looks very different for us. I actually try and do more camps and vacations towards the end of Summer when it's hot, everyone is sick of swimming and we're limping across the finish line.
June we lay low, do swim team and recover from the school year. It's also not as hot and more manageable overall.
As far as working I would try to carpool on camp drop off/pick ups and create a loose rotation of other working moms where you can each take an afternoon after camp to help each other with childcare/playdates.
I also try to have a few days a week where my kids get a break from one another. Whether that's camp, play dates etc
Having a couple activities a week planned is helpful too. Write it on a calendar so the kids know what's coming. Even if it's a splashpad, different pool or movie etc