Happy Friday!  

Charli hit 2 months last week, and I used last week’s email to give you a round-up of July 4th deals, so this week I figured I’d give you a round-up of things I’m learning as we adjust to 2 under 2! Not really sure if I am sharing too much or too little to be helpful, but I just hope that by sharing maybe it’ll help you with wherever you’re at, too. And if you’re just here for my product recommendations, that’s cool, too 😊 

Whoever said the adjustment from 1-2 was easier than the adjustment from 0-1 lied. This transition has been challenging (beautiful, but challenging nonetheless) for our family- mainly me. It has opened my eyes to just how poorly I communicate when I need help. I called this beautiful and challenging because, well, if I want to become a better mother, wife, and woman, I first have to start with becoming better at acknowledging when I need help, and what I need help with. I don’t think I have any clear lessons here yet, but I will of course keep you posted as I learn more about myself and my needs as our family grows.

One thing I am learning is that I do, in fact, need time alone. Whether it is to read a book, go for a walk, workout, or just take an everything shower. After a challenging week, we started to implement this at the end of the day. Gabe takes both Shay and Charli for 30 min, and I do something for myself. It feels weird, clunky, and at the moment I can’t stop thinking about what they need, but over time this might help me feel more present and energized to be with my family. I’ll keep you posted on if that’s the case, or if we ultimately decide to pivot.

Even though last year was hotter than this year, it feels like a solid sauna every day here in Central Texas. We’ve been trying to keep cool, and I don’t want to jinx it, but I’m hoping we’re almost out of the really hot season. Surprisingly, we’ve gotten a ton of rain this summer (very off-brand for Central TX, but very much appreciated), but I’m preparing for August to be hotter and dryer (just so I don’t get my hopes up too high).

I’ve been loving this romper I bought a couple of weeks ago from amazon. It has compression shorts underneath with a hidden phone pocket (very helpful), and the top is lined so it still feels supportive without being uncomfortable. I bought a medium, and I’d say it runs pretty true to size.

I have also been getting some questions about the structured carrier I use when I’m out with Charli and Shay. Mine is an oooooooold hand-me-down, but it’s a Lillebaby one. This is the closest to the model I have, and if it’s any consolation, it’s lasted through 3 (soon to be 4) children, as it was passed down to me from 2 of my brother’s kids. 

Anywho, that’s all I’ve got for you this weekend!

See you next week, same time same place.

Xoxo,

Arielle

6/30/24