With our little one spending the entire day at school this year, it dawned on me that he hardly gets the chance to enjoy his vast collection of toys – which, to be honest, seems to grow by the day. Recognizing this, I've decided to switch gears and prioritize experiences as I compile his wishlist to share with the grandparents. Through conversations with friends, it became clear that I'm not the only parent grappling with this challenge. Hence, the revival of the blog – a platform where I can easily share this shift with fellow parents navigating the sea of kid clutter. Welcome back to our blogging journey, where we'll navigate this together!
Note: These are NOT affiliate links (with the exception of Yoto). I'm just sharing links to make life easier for all who may end up reading this hidden corner of the internet. 1. Zoo Membership or Zoo Tours We have a membership to the North Carolina Zoo and our kiddo LOVES animals. He's watched every season of Secrets of the Zoo on Nat Geo and is always telling us little facts about animals. We've added the Zoofari tour to his list as a fun add on for our next trip. You can opt for a private tour for $250 for up to 10 people or join a tour for $25 per person. [North Carolina Zoo - Zoofari] Gift Pairings:
2. Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Shows During our first experience here for Narnia, kid was hooked. He has been asking to go back and see more shows. I think he loved that these shows were just for kids so it made it super special for him. You can save by buying a 3 show subscription too! Upcoming Shows & Gift Pairing:
3. Summer Day Camp Believe it or not- Summer camps start to fill up by February for the upcoming summer! There really is something for everyone in the Charlotte Area. There's YMCA camps, Parks & Rec camps, and specialty camps for all their interests. My kid loves nature and music so that's what's on his list. The prices vary but on average plan to give around $200 per kid for a half day.
4. Indoor Water Park Day
5. Subscription Boxes What kid doesn't love getting mail? This option is the gift that keeps on giving. There's a subscription box out there for nearly all ages and interests. Here are a few on my kid's list. Full disclaimer- We haven't done any kind of subscription box yet with our kiddo but my nephew really enjoyed his Kiwi Crate we got him. Most have 3, 6, and 12 month options and the option to have the first box shipped to you so you can wrap it and give it as a gift.
6. Yoto Player This summer before vacations we got a Yoto Mini. It took awhile to get Paul on board because he didn't see why it was necessary- we have ipads and phones that can play audio books, podcasts, and music. But seeing was believing for him. The cards make it super easy for our child to use on his own with very little help from us. The podcasts require wi-fi but he's absolutely enjoyed the independence and the non-fiction cards. I personally love the Make Your Own cards where you can put any mp3 on them- music you already have and books you read aloud, anything! (*When you shop on yotoplay.com via this link you can get 10% off your first purchase over $70.)
7. Legos + Lego Books I know. This is a toy. But I personally consider it an experience. My child will sit and create for hours at a time. We love to watch Lego Masters on Hulu as a family where he gets inspired and builds while watching.
8. Arts & Crafts We're going through a creative phase over here at our house so supplies are in high demand. And the best part of art supplies is they are the kind of thing that is there until it's gone. If your goal is to reduce the craft supply clutter stick to paper, crayons, pencils, markers.
This holiday season, consider the gift of experiences that transcend material possessions. By combining these unique adventures with tangible keepsakes, you're not just offering gifts – you're creating cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come. Happy gifting! Being a mom is a whirlwind of love, laughter, and, let's face it, a touch of chaos. Throw my own ADHD and a kiddo with my ADHD gift into the mix, and it can sometimes feel like navigating a daily tornado. I've been there (who am I kidding- I'm there daily), and I'm here to share three tips that have helped me function a bit more smoothly in the midst of the whirlwind.
1. Embrace the Power of Routines One of the game-changers for me has been establishing routines. Predictability is our ally, offering a sense of structure in the midst of ADHD unpredictability. From morning rituals to bedtime routines, having a set schedule helps create a flow that minimizes the potential for chaos. It doesn't have to be rigid – just a loose framework to guide the day. 2. Declutter Your Space, Declutter Your Mind ADHD minds thrive in organized environments. Trust me; I've seen the transformative power of decluttering. Take a weekend to tackle one room at a time or hire a professional organizer. I've done that for two of my spaces. What helped the most is giving everything a space so I could easily put that thing in it's place. The challenge now is not bringing things into my home without having in mind where it will go. (also my office is a wreck and could use another session...eek) 3. Use Tools and Reminders In the age of smartphones, let's make technology our ADHD superhero. Apps and reminders are how I manage. Whether it's setting alarms for key tasks, using shared calendars, or relying on task-management apps, technology can be a powerful ally in combating forgetfulness and keeping the chaos at bay. I'm constantly asking Siri to remind me of things. I also really love the logging my meds through my watch. It's so easy for me this way. Bonus Tip: Practice Self-Compassion Remember, you're doing an incredible job. ADHD might add a layer of complexity, but it doesn't diminish the love and dedication you pour into your family. Be kind to yourself on the chaotic days, celebrate the victories, and acknowledge that, just like everyone else, you're doing your best. In the grand tapestry of motherhood, ADHD is just one thread. By incorporating routines, decluttering your space, utilizing tools, and practicing self-compassion, you can weave a vibrant and more manageable daily life. Here's to thriving amidst the chaos, one organized step at a time! Hey there, friends! It's been too long since we last caught up, and boy, have things changed. As we dust off the cobwebs and rekindle our virtual connection, let me fill you in on the rollercoaster ride that has been the last year and a bit.
First things first – the pandemic. Can you believe it? The world has taken a collective sigh of relief as we cautiously declare the pandemic essentially over. Vaccination efforts, social distancing, and countless Zoom calls seem like distant memories. We've bid farewell to the days of uncertainty and embraced a new normal that feels oddly familiar yet refreshingly different. One of the most significant shifts has been the return to normalcy. Remember those days when a mask was your sidekick, and hand sanitizers were your best friends? Well, we've bid adieu to those and welcome back face-to-face interactions, handshakes, and yes, even hugs. The world outside is buzzing with life, and the streets are once again filled with the sounds of laughter, traffic, and the unmistakable hum of daily life. In our household, the biggest change has been our little one starting school. Can you believe our once-toddler is now navigating the world of education? The school drop-offs, the excitement of new friendships, and the extracurriculars – it's all a whirlwind. As parents, we've transitioned from being the center of our child's universe to being their biggest cheerleaders as they take on the world. It's a bittersweet moment, a blend of pride and a touch of nostalgia for the simpler times. Now, let's address the big question lingering in the air – me. After spending the last five years as a stay-at-home mom, the transition to my little one starting school has left me feeling a bit adrift. The routine of playdates, meal prep, and the daily ebb and flow of parenting has evolved into something entirely new. The silence that echoes through the house during school hours is both liberating and disorienting. The responsibilities that once filled my days have shifted, leaving me with a blank canvas and a sense of uncertainty. In the midst of this transition, I find myself grappling with the age-old pondering: "What am I doing with my life now?" This isn't just a career shift; it's a redefinition of self. The role of 'mom' is still there, but it's taken a step back, making room for something else. As I stand at this crossroads, the path ahead seems both exciting and intimidating. What's my next move? What passions and interests lie dormant, waiting to be rediscovered? Perhaps you've been through a similar experience, watching as the familiar landscape of your daily life undergoes a seismic shift. If so, let's navigate this uncharted territory together. It's a time for self-discovery, a chance to explore long-neglected dreams, and an opportunity to redefine personal aspirations beyond the realm of parenthood. So, here's to the mothers stepping into the unknown after the school bell rings, to the recalibration of roles, and to the prospect of rediscovering the individual beyond the title of 'mom.' As we embark on this journey, let's share stories, offer support, and find solace in the collective experience of charting a new course. Cheers to the exciting, albeit uncertain, adventure that lies ahead! We are officially in that phase of toddlerhood where he asks SO. MANY. QUESTIONS. And while I love the curiosity...how many times can you answer the same exact questions?!
As we approach two years of this pandemic...I keep asking "Are we there yet?!" in hopes that we are closer and closer to being able to do more of the things we did in the 'before times.' I'm not the authority or expert on this at all- so don't look to me for guidance... I have NO idea what the right answer is here. BUT it seems like we are getting closer to 'normal' whatever that is. I know for a lot of Americans the Pandemic has been over for awhile...but our family has taken a much more cautious approach. Because we have the ability to stay home and isolate- we have done as much of that as possible. Most of our outings have been outdoors, and we've limited indoor activities as much as possible. And spending time outside has been amazing. And as much as we have really enjoyed being outdoors how much longer? Surely this will be the year we can loosen up more and have normal playdates and visits with people. Surely. Until then we'll be patient. We have officially moved into "Phase 2" of North Carolina's Stay-At-Home order as of 5pm today. This basically opens everything back up with limited capacity, limits gatherings and we are still encouraged to wear masks and stay 6 feet apart. After over two months of this ordeal we've had to shift how we keep our toddler busy, mentally stimulated, and tired out. Pre-Covid we had a schedule of morning outings. Monday- Aquarium. Tuesday- Library. Wednesday- Play with the kids at Church. Thursday- Museum or Tinkergarten. Fridays- Y-Kids. We have slowly settled into a routine and have found even the simplest of things to be sufficiently entertaining for a toddler. Let's find a Digger. Our neighborhood is FULL of construction sites...and this kid is OBSESSED. A short walk from our house is a big site next to a church where we can sit on a retaining wall and watch all of the big machines move dirt and pipes. Daniel loves it! Some days we go for a walk and I ask him "Where do you want to go?" and he now responds "Find Digger?" and so we do Let's Find Puddles It has been a very typical spring here- lots of rain! We try to live by the motto "No such thing as bad weather- just bad clothing." This proves more difficult for me than it does for Daniel. He is so carefree about life...I'm the one having to learn not to be so fussy about the rain and mud. Anyways. We have noticed walks before naptime help him actually nap- making for a much happier mommy. So even on the rainiest of days we still try to get out and find the puddles to splash around in. Run around at the park We haven't been able to visit our favorite nature preserves for hikes until the last couple of weeks. But we have access to some neighborhood parks to run around and get the wiggles out. The sandy, grassless, patches of dirt have been a big draw for our toddler. He goes straight for it every.single.time! I take this as a win- his willingness to get his hands dirty wasn't a thing several months ago. Its a sensorial experience for him and so we let him have it. Video Chat with Grandparents We are lucky enough to have three sets of grandparents with video chatting options. And he LOVES it! He gets to see their faces. They read stories, sing with him, and he even gets to make silly faces and play peekaboo with my mom's foster children (which he adores!) I am SO thankful to have this technology right now. I'd be lost without it. Watch the Trains
From our house you can hear the trains "Choo-Choo-ing" during the day and night. We live near a major freight hub, Amtrak station, and along the new Light Rail line. SO many trains. Sometimes we are lucky enough for a freight train to be leaving the station during a walk and we can watch all the cars from a nearby parking lot. Other times we walk to the Light Rail station and wait for the train to go through. Either way- this kid is a fan. |
Grace
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