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Life, Motherhood, Thoughts

Life Lately

September 3, 2020 By Robyn 14 Comments

We are living in weird times man. Some snippets of life lately around here…


My one essential piece of baby gear right now

When it comes to baby gear, I’m a more-is-less kind of person. With home/life stuff in general, I tend towards that end of the spectrum. The only thing safe in our house is my husband and my kids (kidding…kind of) everything else has potential to be tossed, donated, etc. Less stuff makes me a more sane human. But just like with books in our house, with baby carriers I don’t do the less-is-more thing. I loved wearing Cal and keeping him close and he also loved being worn. When he was little he would nap for hours upon hours while being worn, in the crib/bassinet…not so much.

I have two Wildbird ring slings (a double and single sling – both bought second hand off FB marketplace – they are much more affordable there!) which are quick to get baby into, comfortable and shockingly very supportive. My Solly wrap is so cozy for those newborn days, but I find I can’t wear it for more than a couple hours or with a baby over 5ish months because my back will start to ache. My Happy! soft structured linen carrier is my go to carrier when I need more support – and it’s beautiful, but it’s a little too big and the fabric isn’t as soft as I’d like for those newborn days. Lastly, our Happy onbuhimo carrier is great for those older baby & toddler years because the high back carry was/is so fun for Cal. We also have an Ergo 360, but rarely use it unless we are hiking – I’ve lended it out to other moms because we just haven’t used it like I thought we would. I find it so bulky.

So all that to say, I have a lot of baby carriers, but I do use them all and they all function differently for me. I probably sound like a millennial mom whack job, but hang with me. Also to note: I could obviously 1000% do motherhood without all these baby carriers, but they do make life easier and I’m thankful for the flexibility they bring me. After Teddy was born, I quickly realized that I needed a more supportive, yet soft and snug, carrier than the Solly, Happy or ring slings could offer. He was so fussy unless he was nursing or I was wearing him upright for the first 5 weeks of his life (turns out, I had an oversupply issue and dude was so gassy/reflux-y) With chasing around a toddler all day, the wraps and slings did not offer enough neck support for him or back support for me.

Enter the Ergo Embrace carrier. I had heard about it on the Birth Hour podcast I think? Anyways, I was up late one night nursing and saw that Ergo had 20% off all carriers so I ordered it for $63 (carriers can be SPENDY, so I thought this was a steal relative to other high quality soft structured carriers) and it was hands down the best money I’ve spent in a long time. Navigating newborn + young toddler life became so. much. easier. with this carrier. So if you’re in the market for a great, relatively affordable carrier that you can stuff in your diaper bag, this is it. Teddy will sleep for HOURS in this thing, he is insanely secure (I bend over or down and he doesn’t budge) and my back and shoulders are supported. I use my Solly wrap with him also right now for shorter carries and will use the other carriers more down the road, but right now this is my ride or die carrier. Not sponsored, just obsessed with this carrier and wanted to share.

Icebox cake

We had friends over to grill pizza a couple Fridays ago (grilling pizza on Friday has become a weekly ritual and I love it) and I made this super easy dessert. (I didn’t make my own whipped cream, just bought it) How am I just now discovering the simple, yet awesome deliciousness of layering graham crackers with cool whip and fruit? It was SO GOOD. I’ve already made it two more times so I can eat it on a regular basis. Add this to your end of summer dessert rotation.

Getting On a Plane Again

We flew home last week for my grandma’s funeral and while we went back and forth over driving vs flying because of COVID, flying won out because driving felt like it would have taken a million years with a breastfeeding newborn. I haven’t been on a plane in six months due to COVID, but I was so impressed at how safe I felt. Kudos to the airlines and a big thanks to all the people making that happen.

Getting back into exercise

I stopped exercising prior to conceiving Teddy so I could get my period back while still breastfeeding Cal. And then Teddy’s pregnancy didn’t involve much structured exercise – some walking and barre3 and MommaStrong, but overall I chasing my toddler was exercise enough. My six week postpartum visit was last week and all looked well, but I have a pelvic floor PT appointment coming up and have been waiting for that to really get the all clear on exercise and some direction for how to ease back in. I recovered well from Cal’s birth, but given I’ve grown and birthed two babies in 2 years, I want to reallyyyyy make sure I’m caring for myself well this time around since my body might not recover as easily as it did last time.

Since about 3 weeks postpartum, I have so enjoyed doing the MommaStrong Hazy Days program which is focused on rehab and function. I’d call it physical therapy, not exercise. It’s a 5 minute video per day with a focus on “waking back up” your muscle groups again and she very much emphasizes first and foremost taking care of yourself and baby first…these videos are if you feel up for it. I’d say I usually do the 5 minute video 4-5 days a week and the stretches as often as I can (my neck/shoulders/back feel SO MUCH better when I do) and that has been really great for me to feel like I have some intention and direction with how to care for my body between birth and the 6 week postpartum appointment.

So all that to say, I am really, really excited about learning to run again (it’s been over a year) – even 10-15 minutes outside by myself in the fresh air sounds so amazing. I’m grateful for what a lot of time off from structured movement has given me in terms of excitement and joy at the idea of running and exercising again.

Adventure Group

A couple weeks ago I was listening to this podcast and knew I needed what the guest called “adventure group” in my life. As a mostly SAHM, I find that I mother best outside of the house and when we have a few social activities and some novelty planned into our weeks. Not everyday, since I have found toddlers need some quiet, slower days at home to balance out the social times away from the house, but I need to get out and be with other moms. I think most SAHMs feel that way. COVID and the lack of travel that has brought, coupled with the slower postpartum period had me itching for adventure. So I texted my group of mom friends and told them to invite any mom friends they knew and we started an adventure group where every Thursday morning we pick a spot within an hour drive (because most of the kiddos nap at lunch time and nap = sanity time) of Charlottesville and we go there. We’ve been at it for 3 weeks now and it’s my favorite weekday rhythm. With other moms around to help me wrangle my toddler, it’s made getting out and about with a newborn feel way less overwhelming. It takes a village. The guest in the podcast had been doing it for ELEVEN years. I so hope we keep at this and see it change and transform for years to come. Hopeful thinking, but I’m going to be hopeful!

Okay, that’s what I got. How are you doing during these semi-quarantined days? Socializing outside has been so lifesaving for me during these weird times.


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Filed Under: Life, Motherhood, Thoughts

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How I Meal Plan Nowadays »

Comments

  1. Hillary says

    September 3, 2020 at 9:00 am

    We are hanging in there, while also going a bit crazy. I have a 13-month-old and haven’t been able to make any mom friends because of COVID. We have a bubble with my parents and sister’s family so that has been nice, but also isolating. We are trying to get pregnant with our second and I have yet to ovulate. I am contemplating the reality that I may need to cut out exercies (doing a 3 mile walk a day to keep me sane) in order to concieve again. I really want to be able to get pregnant, but that walk is such a mental break in my day. Lots of thinking going on here in pandemic life!

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 3, 2020 at 11:46 pm

      I’ve found motherhood more challenging in seasons where friendship wasn’t as abundant. I’m thinking of you Hillary! I hope the post I linked to on BFing and conceiving is helpful. Hugs!

      Reply
  2. Anita @Breville Juicer says

    September 3, 2020 at 10:46 am

    That’s lot of useful information for new mommies. I am trying so hard to balance everything with an older child, no support systems except hubby and working few hours a week from home. I sometimes feel like how am doing all this. We take turns cooking, taking care of baby, working, taking care of the old kid. For now it’s been ok, even though some days everything breaks down and we feel pretty overwhelmed. But my older one has been really a trooper and understanding and it breaks my heart that he is already so much more responsible than a 3 year old ought to be.

    All the advice about the baby carriers is so spot on. I have several from my older kid and what my sisters passed on. I will have to check out the ones you mention. I do end up with neck and back ache somedays.

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 3, 2020 at 11:44 pm

      Anita that is so hard!! These are weird times with uncharted territories and you have so much on your plate. Grace upon grace. You are doing really hard and admirable work <3

      Reply
  3. Kath says

    September 3, 2020 at 7:32 pm

    Super impressed that you drive an hour with two littles to hike!! I’m happy with the in-town options (or even better, the ones I can walk to that don’t involve a car seat!) That said, your trail looks so peaceful!

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 3, 2020 at 11:41 pm

      It takes a village to make it happen each week! And yes to walkable places too, do what’s working for you!

      Reply
  4. India says

    September 3, 2020 at 10:38 pm

    You are amazing! That wrap looks great & I want it now too. 🙂 I’m super impressed that (A) You already have a solid mom group and (B) you’re going on adventures! We’ve been in our town for over 2 years and I don’t have a solid mom group, despite so much effort. I’m happy for you. AND 6 weeks already?! WOW! Way to go.

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 3, 2020 at 11:39 pm

      Grateful is an understatement for how I feel about the community of moms I have in my life less than a year into living here – I did know two before moving here so that helped. It’s so hard when that is lacking, Boston was much harder to find that. I had one super solid bff mom friend who was such a gift to me that first year. Big hug to you, mama!!

      Reply
  5. Savanna says

    September 4, 2020 at 6:06 am

    I’m 35 weeks with baby #4 and have 3 other littles that are 4 and under so I love reading your motherhood posts! I love the Solly wrap for such a sweet, snug feel with newborns. But my lower back hurts too much to wear them when chasing other kids too long. I love the Lillebaby ones and we’ve had them with all of ours because they have a lumbar support and that makes a world of difference to me! Also, wild and free is my favorite homeschool/motherhood resource so I love that you shared them. Have you ordered Greta’s book about adventuring together? Definitely seems like it would be your kind of taste 🙂 I’m in the lonely phase currently, honestly. We moved from super family friendly, outdoor perfection Denver, CO to Australia for 3 years for my husband’s job. While I love the adventure I haven’t found a mama tribe as it’s uncommon to be a SAHM here so there’s not many resources for people like myself. I’m praying that I find like minded mamas to help myself and my kids feel a greater sense of community. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  6. Julie says

    September 4, 2020 at 7:19 am

    So happy to read this post, Robyn, even though I’m not a mom. You’re amazing!

    Xoxo,
    Julie

    Reply
  7. Nancy says

    September 4, 2020 at 11:12 am

    I don’t think you realize your value to other moms. You are such a source of comfort, wisdom, and courage! You are an enormous blessing to moms and prospective moms just by sharing your thoughts!
    Your adventure club idea is the best!

    Reply
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    September 11, 2020 at 9:59 am

    Nice article. I am fighting for a better figure. Surprisingly, I found something that helps me, see maybe it will also help you. https://bit.ly/2Rf79NQ

    Reply
  10. Lauren Browne says

    October 2, 2020 at 12:46 pm

    Hi Robyn,

    Happy Friday!

    We wanted to touch base regarding a collaboration opportunity we have with our client Rockit Apple – the world’s first miniature apple! A convenient, natural, healthy snack food.

    We’re looking for influencers and nutritionists to join our 2020/2021 program, and would love to speak with you about this opportunity. We’d like it if you could provide us with your media kit and rate for social media branded content.

    We are looking forward to hearing from you soon!

    Please let us know if you have any questions/concerns.

    Thank you,

    Lauren

    Reply

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A non-diet dietitian and nurse practitioner helping women find peace with food, accept their natural body size and heal from hormonal issues and period problems.

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I have yet to experience postpartum myself, but I've had many clients and readers that have been through that season of life. Or perhaps you are currently living through the postpartum period. Every woman's body is different, therefore every woman's experience after giving birth will be different. What works for one woman, might not work for the next. While one woman might go through postpartum and adjust to newborn life quiet seamlessly, another woman might find it much more difficult. She might need the support of medication, therapy, extra help and many other things. One way is not better than the other - they are simply two different ways of navigating the postpartum period. I hope this post helps you better care for yourself, whatever that means for you. There's no right or wrong way to care for yourself as a mom or your new baby.

Postpartum Hormones: what’s happening in your body and how to care for yourself

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🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻 two babies are asleep at the same time in their beds (and not on me) for the FIRST TIME IN 7657 DAYS and dear lord I could cry tears of relief straight into this latte and bowl of chocolate chips bc I woke up this morning exhausted and weary and told Nick I didn’t want to parent today 🤣 Not even calling this self care. It’s sanity right now. And even if it lasts 5 minutes it will be 5 minutes of freaking glory. p.s. yes that brick is crooked bc v uneven floors are part of the charmed package of this old house
Learning over and over again in this season that f Learning over and over again in this season that feels unsettled and chaotic and longgggggg that sometimes, you just need the viewpoint of a toddler to remind you that the seemingly insignificant things & moments really are....straight up magical. And that yes, these mundane days are packed full of goodness & beauty if I keep my eyes fixed on what actually matters.
Spent two hours at Lowe’s this morning and wow, Spent two hours at Lowe’s this morning and wow, wowww 🤯 Asked at least six people where to find something and their opinion on all the options bc holy decision fatigue. Nursed my newborn on the floor of the paint aisle. And BLESS my new contractor friend Matt I found in the lumber section that pushed my cart around and helped me avoid the mistake of buying exterior wood for some DIY bathroom shelves.
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I’m giving all our bathrooms a DIY makeover and I couldn’t be more of a rookie. So shoutout to all my Lowe’s buddies and YouTube 😜 You’re making this happen.
We are now officially homeowners. WUT? We didn’t We are now officially homeowners. WUT? We didn’t plan to close on a house 10 weeks after having a baby, but here we are. And we are so, so grateful.  And I’m also terrified. We’ve moved three times and lived in three different states since we got married three years ago. After six years spent living in New York City and Boston, moving back to Charlottesville was really, really hard for me. I cried a lot those first six months because my heart ached for the northeast and for city life. I wanted to pack up and go back to Boston ASAP. It felt so different and so quiet here and at times, very lonely. Even though it felt like the next right step, I second guessed our decision A LOT.
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But here we are 10 months later ready to continue investing in this neighborhood we’ve come to love. And this community of people that have become so dear. Ten months later and it feels so, so right. And although committing to settling down here for a good bit feels really scary to me, it also brings so much peace to know we aren’t moving again anytime soon. We are here to plant and grow. And raise our babies in this house as we make it a home. It’s also really fun to have one of your best friends be your realtor. We love you @kelli.teter.nesting 🤗
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Now, to see if we make it out of this kitchen renovation all in one piece 🤪
my go-to breakfast these days is two fried eggs in my go-to breakfast these days is two fried eggs in ghee with sautéed spinach (also in ghee) and an english muffin with more ghee + some sort of jam on half for that sweet & savory combo. we discovered these local english muffins (from The Bread Basket) and they are doughy and delicious and we are obsessed.
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I’ve found that I need a solid source of protein and lots of fat for breakfast to keep me full while breastfeeding this time around vs with Cal, I was so into big bowls of pb & chocolate chip banana oatmeal. just goes to show our bodies know what they need and change cravings accordingly. also, just a psa: go pick up the maple butter from @traderjoes bc it is bonkers 🤤 and lastly, shout out to my husband bc a lot of mornings he is making this bfast for me while I nurse & try to pull myself out of bed - don’t for a moment think I’ve got it together 🤪
I’ve had many thoughts rolling around in my brai I’ve had many thoughts rolling around in my brain of if/how to use this platform in a way that aligns with how I want to live my life. I’m finding it tricky to discern that when 90% of my use on this app is for professional purposes. But I’m not sure if even professionally, it makes sense for me. Because I feel more aligned with what matters to me when I’m not regularly present here.  I’m not really sure what things will look like moving forward, but for right now I’m here to share with you that I somehow found some spare minutes between newborn & toddler life to write a post with some semi-coherent thoughts on life lately. 🤪 You can head there by clicking the link in my profile.
I’ve been completely disconnected from social me I’ve been completely disconnected from social media and that’s been vital for me during this tender postpartum period of transitioning from a mama of 1 to 2. But today, I’m bopping on briefly to share how Teddy entered this wild world with you - if you’re into a lengthy, detailed birth story, the link in my profile will lead you to the blog post 💙
Theodore “Teddy” Lars Nohling joined our famil Theodore “Teddy” Lars Nohling joined our family at 12:48am on Wednesday after a quick and swift labor & birth at home 💙 Thank you Father for another healthy baby boy & your abundant, tender love for us. What an undeserved gift.
Very grateful to be carrying another baby past his Very grateful to be carrying another baby past his due date, but also....LET’S GO DUDE. Still over here eating dates (check out the @ebbirth article on the research showing dates can help ripen (aka soften) your cervix, reduce the need for medical intervention in labor and can overall, improve birth outcomes) drinking red raspberry leaf tea and sleeping as much as possible with a 19 month old running around. And also trying to survive July in VA without public pools or splash pads bc it is BLAZIN HERE (and I’m a wuss with the heat 🤪)
#AlignPartner A huge plus of transitioning from ti #AlignPartner A huge plus of transitioning from tiny-apartment-city-living to house living is this screened in porch. This little oasis sold me on renting this house when we moved from Boston to Virginia back in November. I dreamed about this becoming our outdoor living room for at least half the year (because also, summer comes earlier and stays later down here - which has a its pros and cons 😆)  During Cal’s afternoon nap, I set up shop out here with my computer + something refreshing to drink and get a little bit of work done before my brain turns to mush and/or a find myself napping instead of working. 🤷🏻‍♀️ I can only drink so much water during the hot months before I’m over it so I’ve been mixing it up with either seltzer + juice, iced tea or @alignprobiotic’s new Kombucha On-the-Go powder sticks - all you do is mix one of the packets into ice cold water and stir. Then sip!  With quarantine life, we aren’t on-the-go much these days, but it’s still nice to have a nonperishable drink option always around. Flavor wise, it’s like a fizzy iced tea with a zingy, refreshing lemon ginger flavor.  I think it’s important to know that not all probiotic supplements are created equal. They all aren’t backed by evidence, but the Align brand is and could be something helpful for you if you feel like you need some digestive support - but talk to your healthcare provider first. I try to incorporate probiotics into what I eat - and that mostly comes in drink vs food form. Tell me how you’re staying hydrated in the comments ...because these days, it’s the little things 🤪 #AlignProbiotic **Use as Directed
Lunches for the past month or so have been some re Lunches for the past month or so have been some rendition of a sandwich + chips + fruit. SUMMERTIME 😎I’ve switched to open faced only bc there just ain’t much room left in there for food at 38.5 weeks 🤰🏻90% of the time at the end of a meal, no matter how “small” the portion, I’m feeling stuffed and like the food is in my throat (just what you wanted to read on this lovely Tuesday afternoon 🤪) but my point here is...intuitive eating doesn’t mean find-the-perfect-fullness and eat-only-when-hungry. Sometimes it means eating when you’re not hungry and feeling overly full often and trying to eat foods lower in fiber and higher in calories.
Found this photo on my camera roll today from a wa Found this photo on my camera roll today from a walk I took a month or so ago. Between quarantine and spending my days with a toddler, life is much less hurried and a lot more mundane these days. But those two things are helping me to stop & notice and to chill out on checking things off my to do list and instead just being present with whatever is in front of me. I want to have the curiosity & wonder my 18 month old has as I go about my day - with my surroundings and people I encounter and really, everything. Life is way more meaningful that way. Ending my evening with that reminder and a white chocolate chip cinnamon blondie covered in vanilla ice cream before I go take an Epsom salt bath and read.

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