October 6, 2017February 2, 2019 - Ashley 20 Comments

Toddler Schedule + Routine For A Stay At Home Mom

Are you a stay at home mom of a toddler looking to add more structure, routine and “me time” into your weekdays? A work at home mom who wonders how to get everything done in the day? New to the stay at home mom club and need more routine in your daily life? A mama thinking about making the transition from working mom to stay and/or work at home mom? Or perhaps you’re just curious about what Taylor and my routine looks like these days (the last updates I gave were this one when I was on maternity leave and this one when I was still nursing/pumping at work!).

If you answered yes to any of the questions above, then this post is for you.

Before I jump into our toddler and stay at home mom routine, I feel compelled to write something straight from the heart :

Recently, I had a conversation with a long-time friend. She shared that, through following my journey from working to stay/work at home mom over the last year or so, a fire was lit beneath her to leave her own VERY successful career to start a business working for herself + stay at home with her two little ones. And, guess what? She has made it happen for herself and her family! I couldn’t be more happy for my friend who had a vision of a different lifestyle and, despite any fears and hesitancies, followed her heart and went for it.

In turn, her story stoked MY fire to encourage women who may be in the same place I found myself a year ago – a heart being pulled toward being at home, yet also with the fear of uncertainty of letting go of a career and identity outside the home.

If this resonates with you right now, please know that I get it. I’ve been there, and I can tell you that I do not regret the decision for a minute. The moments I get to share with Taylor EVERY DAY now, even the hard ones, outweigh anything I could be accomplishing at work. Do I continue to think about what the future of my career may look like as I did a few months ago when I left? Sure, those thoughts still cross my mind…

BUT, here is the evolution in my thinking:

There is always someone who can do my/your day job (maybe not as well, maybe just as good, maybe even better) but there is NO ONE who can be YOU to your child. If you want to be at home with your baby, and it is possible for your family, don’t be afraid to make the big transition because, “the days are long, but the years are SHORT.”

Remembering this always brings me back to a place of content with the decision we’ve made. Fortunately/strategically on my part, between this blog and my Social Marketing biz, I’m finding ways to satisfy the creative, social AND entrepreneurial sides of myself WHILE getting to be at home with Taylor and focussing on my family (and make a full-time income through the latter!!).

The last few months have truly been the best of all worlds for me, and I would LOVE to chat with you if you have any specific questions about my journey or what I’m up to these days if I don’t answer them within this series.

If you haven’t yet read the first post in this series, How To Rock The Transition From Working Mom To Stay At Home Mom, I encourage you to go back and read that first. In it, I discussed my newly minted stay at home mom response to the question, “what do you do?” as far as work, and finding confidence in however you choose to live your own #momlife.

Working Mom to Stay At Home Mom Update #2

This brings me to another question (or variation of) I’ve been asked many times since becoming a stay at home mom is,

“So, what do you DO all day now?”

That’s actually a really good question, and one I felt super nervous about in the weeks leading up to the transition from working to stay/work at home mom. I was SO used to a jam-packed, tightly scheduled, daily routine that the thought of open-ended days gave me a ton of anxiety. Full disclosure, I remember crying the week before I was finished with work, for many reasons, but mostly because I just couldn’t picture what my new days and weeks would look like.

I wanted to do this stay at home mom thing well and didn’t want to lose myself in the day to day mom-ing/home-making or waste days sitting around watching cartoons with Taylor…. As it turns out, I have spent several days with Taylor sitting around doing mostly just that- and I’m totally okay with it. In fact, I’ll take those extra snuggles any day of the week.

Having a predictable schedule and routine is important for you/your sanity and your toddler. However, it is also important to be flexible and adjust according to your little one’s (or your!) needs on a given day. Moods happen. Things come up. Kiddos and mamas get sick. Naps are dropped. Structure without rigidity is key!

Structure without rigidity is the key!

GRAB A COPY OF OUR MORNING/EVENING ROUTINE PRINTABLE PDF CHECKLIST BELOW!

morning routine chart for a toddler — SNAG YOUR PDF TO PRINT + LAMINATE BELOW!

*after completing payment click on “Return To Merchant” to access your printable PDF!!

Weekday Toddler Schedule and Stay At Home Mom Routine

That said, I wanted to share what a typical weekday for this stay at home mom and her 18-month-old toddler looks like. I work best when I time block (as you can see in my admittedly OCD Google Calendar below), and I hope it’s helpful to see what typically takes place during each block:

7 AM – Taylor wakes up and plays with her stuffed animals and reads books in her crib for 15-30 minutes while I “wake up”. One of the goals I have for myself is to start getting myself out of bed at 6AM in order to build in a little more me/work time before the day begins. I’m SOOOO not a morning person though, so we shall see how that goes….any tips?

7:30 AM – AJ or I (my hubby works from home with is AMAZING) get Taylor out of her crib, change her diaper, and bring her into our room to drink her bottle (yep, still drinking a bottle of milk in the AM + PM) while we watch the news/I get ready for the day. Most days I just put on some tinted moisturizer, curl my eyelashes and that’s about it. I can’t usually get Taylor downstairs without making a pit stop at the playroom, so we play there for 15-20 minutes before breakfast. Conveniently, the laundry room is connected to that room so I can start on or fold a load of laundry as she enjoys!

8:30 AM – Taylor eats breakfast and I drink coffee and check emails. Her breakfast is anything from a banana + oatmeal, to a bagel, egg + raspberries. At this point, she is able to request her favorite foods which is so amazingly cool!

9:30-11:30 AM – Monday through Thursday (again, not EVERY Monday through Thursday because flexibility is key!) we go to Lifetime Athletic Club within this time block. Joining this gym is hands down the best decision we made as a family when I quit working and we moved to a new city. Their childcare facility, programming, and staff are absolutely phenomenal and Taylor LOVES going there. While she participates in toddler art or music class, I get to workout for an hour or so. This time is SO good for both of us; she gets to develop her independence and play skills while I get to maintain (maybe even increase!) my fitness and sanity, win-win! I always bring a snack for us to share outside the gym when we’re finished up. If you follow me on Instagram you’ll see that I often document our “conversations” during this time that has come to be a special tradition between she and I.

On Fridays during this time block, we go to the local library for a Mommy & Me developmental play hour which is super fun for Taylor, a little stressful for me (because she is literally the Energizer Bunny + Tazmanian Devil in this environment), and overall great for her development. Anything for T.

11:30 AM – When we get home from the gym, I make lunch for Taylor to eat before she goes down for her nap. Her lunch is usually leftovers from the night before, a toddler approved Green Smoothie, Annie’s Mac and Cheese (no shame in my game!), plus some fruit and water.

12-2 PM – Naptime, glorious, naptime. Although T’s naps have been hit or miss over the last few weeks, she typically naps for 2-3 hours a day. During this time I shower, work on blog-related stuff and/or my Social Marketing business (as of January 2019 I now make my full-time income through this endeavor which is AMAZING!!!!), start or finish a load of laundry, and (some days) clean one room of the house. I create a prioritized “to do” list for each naptime block at the start of the week and get as far as I can through that day’s list, bumping unfinished business to the evening “Task” block or to the next day. Obviously, this system gets WAY backed up when Little Miss decides to boycott her nap/s, but I digress…

2-4 PM – This is the time we either A) get outside of the house to play (if I have an errand to run that day, we’ll go on the way home), or B) play indoors and incorporate a learning/developmental activity. This may be a trip to the park or zoo, going outside in our backyard to play with her water table or playhouse, artwork or another craft in the kitchen (this art smock is a must, and under $5!), a make shift “fort” in the living room, or up to her playroom to “cook,” in her kitchen or play with her toys and dress up clothes.

Around 4:00 I offer T a snack whether we are at home or out and about. Her favorites these days are gummies, protein + fiber bars, and Goldfish.

6-7 PM – I begin preparing dinner around 6:00. While I’m prepping for dinner AJ (the hubs), Curious George, Peppa Pig or Daniel Tiger babysit for Taylor, and we eat together around 6:30 PM.

7-8 PM – Almost every weeknight Taylor takes a bath, and then we go through her bedtime routine. Since I’ve been at home with Taylor, my hubby and I have been switching off every other night with who is “in charge” of the bedtime routine. On my nights off, l usually take a bath with my favorite bath bomb and enjoy some “me time.” This time is so critical, especially on the nights when I need to put in evening work to catch up on work stuff.

9-11 PM – This is the time where I (usually) try and get things I didn’t get done earlier in the day done. Although, many nights all I do is enjoy a glasses of wine (or 2 or 3) and a crime show with my hubby on our comfy couch. Those are the best weeknights of all : )

I would love to know what your stay at home mom routine and toddler schedule looks like. I love getting ideas from other mamas like you! How is it different than ours? How is it the same?

XO,

Ashley

UPDATE [January 2019]:

I am now blessed to be able to work and make a full-time income from home!! That’s not everyone’s desire, but it truly was mine and I’ve found a way to make it happen for our family, and a way to help others make it happen for theirs!!! If you’d like more information on what I do now or if you are looking for an opportunity to either make some additional income for your family or even replace your income like I have I would love to work with you!!

Check THIS POST out for more information, mama!

September 13, 2017June 9, 2020 - Ashley 14 Comments

Top 10 Useful Apps Every New Mom Needs On Her Phone

Thank you to Caseapp.com for sponsoring this post. As always, all views and opinions are 100% mine.

Yes, yes, I know that women for centuries got by just fine without all the technologies available to us moms these days. However, I truly don’t know what I would have done without my iPhone, laptop and particularly the apps that made life SO much easier and much less stressful for me as a new mom.

I want to share the top 10 apps that I personally used and think would benefit any new mom + will continue to be useful as your baby grows; IÃ¢â‚¬™m still using all of these apps now and Taylor is almost 1.5. All of the apps listed are available in the iTunes App Store and I’m almost certain all are also available for Android phones as well. I hope one or more of the apps I share will make YOUR life as a new mom a little easier or sweeter!

On to the top 10 apps for a new mom …

1. White Noise App – I personally used the Sound SleeperÂ app and could often be mistaken for a walking thunderstorm with Taylor in her stroller during those early months when she would only fall asleep to fairly loud “rain” (read my other 4 tips for newborn sleep in this post). Whatever works, whatever works…It’s also useful to have white noise on your phone when traveling if you don’t want to bring along a bulkier sound machine; This brings me to the next app…
2. Baby Monitor Annie – You have to have another person set this app up on their phone as well, but once that’s taken care of it’s easy to then utilize your phones as the camera and receiver – just like you would for a baby monitor. We did this a couple of times when we stayed at my parents house and didn’t pack our monitor.
3. Starbucks App – I used this embarrassingly too often to order + pay for my coffee ahead of time if I knew I was already going to be out and about near a Starbucks. Sometimes I would make a trip out of walking there from home (we used to live about a mile away). It’s the little accomplishments, like getting out for a coffee with a newborn, that makes a new mom proud! If you have a baby prone to fussing while not in motion like mine was, then you don’t want to be waiting in line and then for your drink if it can be avoided. Stroll in, grab coffee, stroll out. It’s not lazy, it’s GENIUS.

1. LifeCake – this is an app you can start using from your baby’s first day in the hospital through their first day in college if you really wanted to be a Mamarazzi like that. You can grant access to as many friends or family as you want. It’s nice because you can post pictures every day if you want, and not have to worry about privacy and/or annoying everyone else on your Facebook feed that isn’t immediately related to your little, photo-overload worthy cutie. Anyone you add can then see and comment on photos you post, which are labeled by their day and month of age. This app is especially useful if you have parents/grandparents who don’t live nearby and want to see their grandchild and share in their day to day. We added our parents and siblings, who don’t live in our immediate area, and it’s been a great way to stay connected. LifeCake will also put together a photo book of your photos for an additional cost.

1. Wonder Weeks – have you ever wondered why your baby or toddler is more fussy than usual over a period of days or weeks? Well, wonder no more with this app! You create a profile for your baby and then have access to a personalized weekly calendar of their mental development that keeps you informed of their leaps, when you can expect fussy behavior, and why!
2. Web MD Baby – this is an app I discovered after the newborn days but wish I’d had sooner! Not only is the app a feeding, diaper and sleep tracker, but also a great resource tool; The Baby 101 section has hundreds of articles and resources on everything you’d want to know about your new baby, from colic to skin care.
3. Facebook – so this app (and the next one) you could access through your laptop or computer, and probably already have BUT are you a member of the Facebook Groups Precious Little Sleep and Breast, Bottle & Beyond?? I cannot tell you how many times admins and members of these groups came to my rescue, even in the middle of the night. See the evidence of this below! I probably would have thrown in the proverbial breastfeeding towel if it weren’t for the support of the community in BB&B, as well as my friend who also happens to be a lactation consultant. You can read my interview with her + her top tips for breastfeeding mamas in this post. You do have to request to join both groups, but I am sure you’ll be approved!
4. Pinterest – Forget Google, THIS is my (almost) All Things Motherhood search engine. I spent a TON of time on Pinterest when I was home on maternity leave and nursing newborn Taylor all the time. I’d sift through articles, read, then pin the best ones related to sleep, feeding, new mom hacks/advice, inspirational quotes, postpartum, and basically all things new mom (like thousands). I would love to save you the trouble of doing all of that, so just follow me on Pinterest and check out the pinned posts on all my new mom related boards!
5. BabySparks – Developmental Activities & Milestones – I love having this app to give me ideas of activities to help Taylor develop in the seven critical areas: Gross Motor, Fine Motor, Cognitive, Speech, Sensory, Self-Care, and Social Emotional. The app includes information regarding development from month to month (from 0 to 2 years old), as well as specific activities that you can do with your baby. Each activity has a demonstration video as well as a detailed how-to description. You can also search for your specific need/s, which for us was Tummy Time/rolling!
6. Instacart – This just might be THE most useful app for new and/or pregnancy moms, especially in those first postpartum weeks. You know, when all+ of your energy is taken up trying to take care and sustain a little life, and the last thing you can think about doing is getting out of the house to go grocery shopping? If Instacart is available in your area you can order groceries from your local store via Instacart, then one of their shoppers will pick them up for and deliver them to you at the time you specify. Say whaaaat?! This was a lifesaver for me as a new mom, particularly when I went back to work and didn’t want to spend any of my non-working time doing anything except being with T! My referral code is ALATIMER14 – you’ll get $10 off your first order and I’ll get $10 too! You can then share your own referral code with friends and get $10 in InstaCart credit.

So, let’s talk about my iPhone case and Laptop Skin for a minute; how cute are they? Both are from Caseapp.com. You have the option to create your own custom cases and skins, which I had every intention of doing, Ã‚ but I honestly couldn’t get past how stinking cute their ready made patterns were! Is it weird that I chose a laptop skin that matches my downstairs decor/color theme?? Okay, I didn’t think so. : )

I think I picked the cutest patterns ever, but check out all of the options here yourself, Ã‚Â and let me know which one you like best! You can use code TAYLORMADE20 to receive 20% off your order at Caseapp.com, valid until October 21, 2017.

Are there any Apps you would recommend for new moms or moms with toddlers? Leave me a comment and let me know!

Other Taylor-made Mama posts you may be interested in:

12 Things I Never Understood About Moms Until I Became One
Maternity Leave Routine For Mom and Baby
The Ultimate 1st Birthday Party Planning Guide – Free Printable Checklist!
How To Solve Your Baby’s Teething Problems!

September 4, 2017November 27, 2017 - Ashley 29 Comments

Everything You Need In A Toddler’s Emergency Car Kit

Do you have a toddler car kit stocked with everything you would need in case of emergency (i.e. forgotten diapers, sudden need for a potty break, stuck in traffic, car wont’ start, flat tire, etc.)? Do you lug around a huge diaper bag full of everything under the sun in case of emergency and want to lighten your load? If you answered yes to either question, then this post is for you!

Taylor and I were out and about the other day when she needed a mid-shopping diaper change. I realized I didn’t have a diaper in my diaper bag – TOTAL #momfail. Then I remembered the Baby Car Kit I keep for her in the trunk of my car (this also happens to be one of this blog’s most popular posts to date!). Relieved, we walked to the parking lot for her change. Much to my chagrin, I realized it had been quite a while since I’d updated her kit, and the diapers I had in stock were a size too small. Although I was able to squeeze her into the diaper until we made it home and I wouldn’t necessarily categorize this as an “emergency” situation, it did remind me that our original emergency car kit needed a little updating.

So update I did, and here is exactly what is you need for an emergency car kit, fit for a toddler.

Everything You Need In A Toddler’s Emergency Car Kit

Here is a list of everything you need to pack in an Emergency Car Kit for your toddler to keep them fed, changed, happy and entertained in case of an unpredictable situation (or if you just don’t feel like dragging a big ole diaper bag around with you everywhere!). I pack all of this in this bin + lid from Tar-jay – it’s less than $10 and fits all our supplies (minus the portable potty) perfectly!

1. 1. 1. Water bottle with a spout (at least 1) to keep both you and your tot hydrated.
    2. 3-4 diapers
    3. Wipes – I keep my wipes in a lined, zippered bag like this one so that moisture doesn’t escape over time (especially when it’s hot!).
    4. Non-perishable snacks like Annie’s gluten free oatmeal bars or these Sprout Power Pouches.
    5. Disposable diaper bags + dispenser – I have these Munchkin bags and dispensers in my diaper bag, daycare bag and car kit.
    6. Diapering creams
    7. Roll of toilet paper – if you’re in the potty training stage, this is critical, along with this portable potty (scroll down for more details).
    8. 1-2 activities/toys – I always keep 1-2 books and an activity that could consume my toddler’s attention for the maximum amount of time possible. This Magnetic Curious George Set is perfect for the car and developing imagination, and T loves it!
    9. Travel first aid kit – you could, of course, put one together yourself, but I chose to buy http://bit.ly/2xKe7PVthis one from Target for $6.49.
    10. Sunscreen – my favorites are this spray version and pure mineral sunscreen face stick from Babyganics.
    11. Changing pad – the one pictured here is sold out, but this is a great option on Amazon Prime + only $6.
    12. Hand sanitizer – I have one of these Babyganics hand sanitizer pumps in our change table caddy, nursing station basket and in the emergency car kit. I like this brand because it is alcohol and paraben free, yet 99% effective in killing germs.
    13. Tissues
    14. Spare outfit (socks, pants, shirt) – I keep a t-shirt and pants that are 1-2 sizes too big so that I do not have to think about updating the spare outfit every couple of months because – growth spurts. The Cat & Jack line at Target has super cute T-Shirts for between $4.50 and $6.00 (both short and long sleeved depending on the seasons you’re in/entering).
    15. 2 gallon Ziploc bags
    16. {NOT PICTURED} Lightweight blanket – I keep a swaddle blanket by Aden & Anais in the car in case it gets chilly.
    17. {NOT PICTURED} A Restaurant Kit – create a Restaurant Kit with all the essentials you need to reduce the stress of dining out with little ones and keep it in your trunk. I have actually been bringing the Airplane Entertainment Kit in the car lately because it’s so packed with things to keep T busy.
    18. {NOT PICTURED, but a MUST HAVE} Potette portable travel + training potty – I don’t yet have this portable potty because we haven’t started potty training at this point, but it is already on my Amazon shopping list for later. My best friends both have this in their cars and it’s come in incredibly handy on numerous occasions. You can actually be out and about during potty training because it can be adapted to any toilet seat OR you can just plop in on the ground anywhere you are and the disposable liners catch everything. Genius, right?!
  To access the printable Toddler Emergency Car Kit Checklist use this link or just click on the image below. Print it, shop with it, then keep it in your kit to make sure you’re always stocked up. As a subscriber, you can access and download this and any of the other printables from my website by going to the Printables Library Page and entering the password I emailed to you when you subscribed.
  
  Is there anything I’m missing? What other ways do you keep your car organized and prepared for your little ones? Let me know if I’m missing anything in the comments on this post and I’ll happily update my kit + this post.
  
  P.S. This post is part of the Packed to Perfection Series. Each post (including one of my most popular – “What To Pack In A Carry-On To Entertain A Toddler On An Airplane”) includes tips for what to pack and printable checklists to make sure you don’t forget anything. It’s hard enough remembering what to pack for yourself, right?! I like to print my checklists, laminate them and keep them in my bags/suitcases/kits so that they are right on hand and I can keep track of what needs packing, refilling, etc.
  
  Other Ta[y]lor-made Mama posts you may be interested in:

August 26, 2017October 18, 2018 - Ashley

Fall Wardrobe Staples For Toddler Girls

FALL 2018 TODDLER CAPSULE WARDROBE POST CLICK HERE!!!

Am I the only one who devotes way more time and attention to their toddler’s fashion than their own? I may only get one shot at this #girlmom thing, so I’m making the most of it! However, now that I’m at home with Taylor I am more judicious with how I spend, and therefore picking adorable, affordable staple pieces that can work together for an entire season.

So, in this installment of “my 1-year-old is more stylish than me,” I’m sharing a round up of toddler girl fall wardrobe staples. If you have a toddler girl, these are must have pieces for her closet, and many of them are on pre-season sale right now.

Happy shopping, mama!

Jersey Scoop-Neck Tee (white) / Plaid Dress / Long Sleeve Thermal Tee (pink) / Jersey Scoop-Neck Tee (floral/avian) / Quilted Vest (black) / Open-Front Cardi (cream) / Hooded Peplum Anorak (green) / Ruffle Trim Sweater (polka dot) / Jersey Leggings (pink) / Skinny Jeans / Jersey Leggings (black) / Metallic Pleated Skirt (pink) / Twist Front Sweater Beanie (black) / Sneakers (blush) / Hunter Classic Rain Boot / Zip Boots (tan) / Ballet Flats (black)

Everything shown/linked is from either Old Navy, Nordstrom, or H&M because I’m obsessed with their toddler lines and their online shopping platforms are (maybe a little too) user friendly!

Where are your fav places to shop for your little ones?

This post contains some affiliate links. As always, I only showcase products I actually really, really like!

August 11, 2017June 10, 2020 - Ashley 17 Comments

The Transition From Career Mom To Stay At Home Mom

Whether you carry the title of Mom exclusively (“stay at home mom”) or are a “working mom” outside or inside the home, it’s rare that anyone truly sees or gives you credit for ALL you do in your role as a mom.

You don’t add “Mom” to your resume because the results you’re producing can’t be quantified, even though it’s the most important title you’ll ever hold.

You’re indispensable (the boss!) but there is no corresponding salary, nor performance bonuses to cash in on.

You’re really good at this motherhood thing; you are constantly honing your craft, but there isn’t a career ladder to climb or promotions to be given.

You punch in for this job, but you NEVER punch out…

So, especially as a stay at home mom, how do you respond when you’re asked the question,

What do you do?

Before I get into how I’ve been answering that question lately, let me first say that (45 days in) I do not have a single complaint about the stay at home mom life. It is a privilege and a blessing, and it is the life I chose. While there are certainly effects of this major change worth mentioning (and writing future posts on!): financial adjustments, shifting responsibilities and dynamics in our marriage, acclimating to a new home and town, finding “me time” when I’m an introvert at home all day with two extroverts, etc., life is good. I go to bed each night excited that I get to spend the next day hanging out with my girl. I’m not missing anything. My husband is amazing, supportive and works incredibly hard and well to support our family. This lifestyle, this (at least mostly) undivided time…I’m living my dream and I’m so, so grateful.

Side Note: I find the “stay at home mom” and “working/career mom” labels obnoxiously pigeonholing and misleading but I’m still going to use them here for sake of clarity; I think we can agree that ALL moms are full-time moms, and stay at home moms do a lot more than just stay at home.

We’re all just doing what we feel is best and what works for our families – and a darn good job at that!

From Career Mom To Stay At Home Mom – Update #1

Something I realized during the initial transition period from career to stay at home mom, and not something I’m super proud of admitting, is just how much of my identity is tied up in how other people perceive me based on what I did/do.

I know a job title, salary or anything else external does not define my worth, but on more than one occasion I found myself responding almost apologetically to the question about what I do sayin something like, “I’m just a mom right now, but I used to…” I reference my previous occupation as if it increases my standing in the eyes of the person who asked; I add words as if they add value – as if being Mom is not enough.

I don’t assess others (especially moms) in this way, I know that being a mom is one of the highest callings + most demanding jobs out there, and I was very confident in my decision to put my career on pause and be a stay at home mom, so my words and reaction came as a surprise. Maybe it’s that I felt competent in my profession, but I’m still getting my footing and confidence in this all day mom/homemaker thing. Maybe it’s the subconscious influence of the society we live in, undervaluing what we do as moms and overvaluing productivity/money-making/achievements. Whatever it is, I felt the tug of my pride, and a wrong thinking showed itself in need of correction.

Confidence & Worth As A Stay At Home Mom

Fortunately, motherhood has a beautiful, humbling, refining quality when we reflect upon and act out of the experiences we have along our journeys; Oftentimes this brings a reminder of a simple, deep truth like it did in this instance for me – no matter what we do part time, full time, inside of the home or outside of it, we are defined by who we are.

Not by the title you have or someday wish to hold.

Not by what you do or don’t do.

Not by what you have or haven’t accomplished.

Not by accolades or criticisms from others, and certainly NOT by the amount of money you earn or don’t.

True worth has nothing to do with the external, and everything to do with the internal and unseen – the “who” you were created you to be, the person you are in this world. As moms, we ALL struggle with thoughts that we aren’t enough, that we aren’t contributing enough to our family financially or time wise, or that we’re just generally not doing things right.

Well, I’m here to tell and/or remind you that you alone are absolutely enough and that – as long as your kids are loved, safe and mostly happy -there is no wrong or right way to “mom”. Feel good about doing what feels right to you and works for your family.

YOU are a gift to your family and this world and you should have every confidence in the person and Mom that you are. There is nothing else you need to prove to anybody.

As for me, I will continue to pour my talents, heart, soul, mind, and skills into my family and raising our precious daughter without the time + mental commitments to another job for this season of life. There will be times in the future when I use my gifts toward other ends and maybe even pick up where I left off with my career, but my current path is stay at home mom to Taylor.

That is enough.

I am more than enough.

My role as Mom is invaluable.

The same is true of you.

So, the next time I’m asked what I do, with shoulders square and the confidence and pride ALL mamas should have, I will simply say, “I have the privilege to be a Mom.”

When you’re asked, “what do you do?how do you respond? Could you relate to any of the thoughts I shared in this post as a working mom or stay at home mom? I would absolutely love to hear from you.

This is the first in a series of posts on the journey into SAHM life and this big transition for our family, so stay tuned + make sure to subscribe if you haven’t already. Do you know a mama who could use this encouragement? Please share this with them!

UPDATE [January 2019]:

After going back to work for a year (which ended up being A LOT harder on my heart than I anticipated), we decided as a family that I would stay at home with Taylor. This was a BIG decision for me (read about thatÂ HERE), but Iâ€™m glad I made a leap of faith. We moved cities and changed up our whole lifestyle, but the time I now have with Taylor is worth all that change.Â Our Toddler + Mama Daily Routine is also inÂ THIS POST!

But there’s more…

I am now blessed to be able to work part-time hours and make a full-time income FROM HOME!! That’s not everyone’s desire, but it truly was mine and I’ve found a way to make it happen for our family, and a way to help others make it happen for theirs!!!Â If you’d like more information on what I do now or if you are looking for an opportunity to either make some additional income for your family in the pockets of your busy life, or even replace your income like I have I would love to work with you!!

Check THIS POST out for more information, mama!

Other Taylor-made Mama posts you may be interested in reading:

July 11, 2017July 26, 2017 - Ashley

Amazon Prime Day 2017 – Toddler and Mama Edition

This post contains affiliate links but, as you already know, I only promote things I am actually into (like anything Amazon.com)!

If you don’t already have an Amazon Prime membership then today is, definitely, definitely the day to become one. If you already have one, are you ready for Prime Day 2017??

You can get a FREE 30 Day Trial to Amazon Prime HERE, just in time to take advantage of all the deals for Prime members only beginning on July 10 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET and runs all day Prime Day July 11.

Why So Awesome, Amazon Prime?

As a side note, my Prime membership easily pays for itself within a few weeks. I consider Alexa a bestie (btw, you can get $10 credit on Prime Day for ordering through Alexa). I save hundreds per year by shopping for everything from the comfort of my home, car (as a passenger, of course), waiting in lines, etc. Groceries, baby stuff, home decor, electronics, clothing, music, movies…is there anything Amazon Prime doesn’t get you access to + free 1-2 Day Shipping/returns on these days ?? Truth be told, I went completely a little crazy on Prime Day last year because deals were just. that. Good. The onslaught of boxes 2 days later totally freaked my husband out, but, #worthit. So what are you waiting for? Sign up for a Free 30 Day Prime Trial HERE and get to shoppin’.

For a full list of ALL the benefits of a Prime membership check out this link.

Okay, so onto some of the deals I have my eye on for toddlers and their mamas. Head over to my Facebook Page for all the deals I’m finding starting…..NOW! I’ll be posting every chance I get when I find a deal for you:

Let me know if there is something in particular you are looking for and I’ll see what I can find!

July 6, 2017June 10, 2020 - Ashley 4 Comments

The Healthiest, Non-Toxic Products For Babies & Toddlers

Call me ignorant, but I did not realize just how much CRAP is put into a lot of the products out there on the market for babies and toddlers. Mainstream baby products contain numerous toxic ingredients that will enter your baby’s body if used or actually ingested, not to mention toddlers who are putting stuff in their mouths ALL. THE. TIME.Â I feel like I’ve Ã‚ been cognizant of trying my best to avoid buying things for Taylor that might be toxic, artificial, and generally not healthy for human beings, let alone little ones, but honestly I haven’t really had the time to do my due diligence on each and every product I’ve purchased… #momguilt

Now That I Know Better

Thankfully, I discovered a company whose purpose is to make it easier for busy moms (aren’t we all!) and moms-to-be to give themselves and their family the healthiest products, at really good prices, while doing all the vetting and research for us on the back end! 21 Bundles is a personalized subscription box service that delivers baby/toddler products that are sustainable, ethical, and most of all HEALTHY while still remaining super cute, relevant and fun. I LOVE mail like this! The best part is that you can rest assured no product 21 Bundles delivers will contain any of this junk:

How 21 Bundles Works

Tell 21 Bundles your stage (or baby’s age)
Each Bundle is taylored (had to!) to your baby or toddlers age with all natural products. Each and every product in the bundles must meet or exceed these stringent regulations before being considered for and curated as “the healthiest” of products out there for little ones.
Every bundle (4-7 full-sized products along with stickers, samples, and coupons) is delivered in an eco-friendly box packed with safe and chemical free goodies! For example, the cute little owl stroller toy TaylorÃ‚ received in her 14-month-old bundle is made from fair trade certifiably organic Egyptian cotton and chemical free dyes!

Our first bundle was truly loaded with goodies relevant to Taylor’s and stage! Her favorite from the get was definitely the Rainbow Sensory Ball; much to ~~my dismay~~ her delight it has a very, shall we say, distinctive squeak to it; it’s a go-to toy for her now, but at least I don’t have to worry when she mouths it!Â Personally, I am anxious to use the Monkey Mat (as seen on Shark Tank!) for backyard and park picnics/concerts this summer, and I’m definitely stashing the non-toxic surface sanitizer in my Toddler Restaurant Essentials Kit.

You can learn more about any product sent to you in your own bundle, or order other healthy family and baby products by visiting the parent site to 21bundles, www.healthiest.io.Â From here on out, I’m definitely saving myself the trouble of researching on my own and using this site as a resource.

What do you think of this concept? Pretty awesome, right?Â Would you try something like this out for your own babe or as a gift?Â Right now, you can get 20% off your first bundle using code TAYLORMADEMAMA at check out!

Hope you love your experience with 21 Bundles it as much as we did!

Thanks toÃ‚Â 21 Bundles for sponsoring today’s post.Â Please know that I only recommend products and resources I truly believe in.

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June 28, 2017July 1, 2017 - Ashley 6 Comments

What I Learned In My First Year Of Blogging

This time a year ago I had about 5 posts waiting in the Word Press wings when I pressed “Publish,” and this blogging adventure began. I’m pretty sure that the only people who read those posts, or any subsequent ones over the next couple of months, were my husband, parents and best friends. Flash forward only one year, and I still can’t quite believe when I see that there are hundreds of women who visit this blog each day. Although that’s small peanuts as compared to many bloggers, I’m still excited by that because it means I’m putting content out that my fellow mamas are finding useful.

I remember being kind of embarrassed to put myself out there as a “Blogger” to an extent that those who know me in real life are, I’m sure, surprised by. I’m an introvert to the core, but this year I found a passion in this creative forum which allows me to connect and share experiences with other moms all across the world. Taylor-made Mama is like one big, borderless, online Mommy Group, and I love it!

I’ve learned a TON this year (I surely NEVER thought I’d be teaching myself to code!), yet I still feel like I’ve only scratched the surface of what I need to know in order to do all I want to here. I started this blog while on Maternity Leave as a way to document my experiences as a new mom and share #momhacks I learned along the way, and hopefully share that with any friends and family who might want to keep up with our little family. Sounds easy, right? I had a personal blog years ago that documented the highs and lows of being a Special Education teacher, and I didn’t think this one would be much different in terms of effort…Well, let’s just say I was certainly naive to think a {trying to be} legitimate blog would be an easy addition to my already busy life, trying to balance my version of it all.

Bloggin’ Ain’t Easy

Quickly, I realized just how MUCH work went into this little corner of the internet, and also the possibilities it held… Blogging is super time consuming; the brainstorming, writing, pitching, photographing/editing, researching, publishing and promoting is endless work if you allow it to be. However, once I got started I knew this was something I wanted to continue and expand upon despite losing sleep, replacing gym time with blog work or the humbling realization that this isn’t something I would be ~~ever~~ instantly be a pro at.

Today, on the 1 Year Anniversary of Taylor-mademama.com I celebrate sticking with this for an entire – extremely busy – year and all that I’ve learned so far, but even more so I celebrate YOU.

I’m SO thankful to each of you for the support and encouragement you’ve given me along the way. Thank you for taking time out of your days to open your email or browser to read this blog, comment, email questions, hang out with me on Instagram, Pinterest or Facebook, participate in my Giveaways, etc. There are literally millions of Mommy Blogs out there, but you stick around here with me. I can’t thank you enough for that. You make all the time and effort worth it.

What’s Next

In January I sent out a Reader’s Survey asking what you’d like to see more of on the blog in the coming year (aside from cute Taylor pics, bc you know you don’t even have to ask for those!) and you let me know you want more time management, workout, organization, and meal prep advice and printables, as well as updates my current Mama Must Haves.

As timing would have it, my last day of work outside the home also happens to be today – June 29th! Now that I’m a full time Stay At Home Working Mom (SAHWM? that’s how I’m labeling myself anyway), I’m looking forward to having more time and energy to pour into this blog and adding more value – I have a ton of exciting things in the pipeline for you.

I know my strengths and weaknesses as a Blogger, and I recognize I have a LONG way to go, but this is me sharing about motherhood, life and following dreams with you in a way ONLY I can. Maybe it isn’t starting a blog or quitting your job, but I hope I can inspire you to follow your own heart/dreams as a mom and person in this life. You have things to share with your family and the world that only YOU can, and it’s never too late to change direction in life and follow your passion and purpose. You’ll be happier and a better mom for it, I promise.

I hope you continue to find encouragement, motivation, and inspiration here. Thank you so much again for supporting me, friends. I love ya’ll!

Gratefully,

Ashley

P.S. Below are a few of the tops blog posts from the first year of Taylor-made Mama, in case you missed them:

June 13, 2017June 10, 2020 - Ashley

Father’s Day Gift Guide – Amazon.com Prime

Are you a last minute shopper (like me), not wanting to spend a ton of cash, but still want to give your baby daddy (or your own Dad!) something to make them feel extra special on Father’s Day this year? Then look no further – this is the gift guide for you! All of the gifts listed are under 100 dollars and have FREE 1-2 day shipping, if you’re an Amazon Prime member.

If you aren’t one already, definitely hop aboard the Prime train – you won’t be disappointed. My Prime membership easily pays for itself within a few weeks. I save hundreds per year by shopping for everything from the comfort of my home, office, car (as a passenger of course), waiting in line, etc. My husband thinks I’m crazy for how many boxes arrive on a ~~daily~~Â weekly basis, but it works for our busy lifestyle.

If you don’t have Prime yet you can get a free 30 Day Trial HERE, just in time to purchase a gift from this list. Orrrrrrrr you can just trust me and go ahead and sign up for Amazon Prime HERE. “Once you go Prime you never go back,”Â doesn’t really have a ring to it, but it’s still totally true. Check out ALL the cool stuff you’ll get access to with your Prime membership, in addition to free 1-2 day shipping and free returns, here.

Now back to what you came here for: The Ultimate Amazon.com Prime Gift Guide for Guys (all items are under $100, and many are on super sale!):

Echo Dot (439.99) and a customized CaseÂ ($19.99) to suit his style.
Oster Cordless Electric Wine Bottle Opener ($12.46)
The Wire – The Complete SeriesÂ ($72.80)
Sharpest Tool Socks ($16.92)
Homebrewing Craft Beer Making Kit ($49.99)
Your Baby’s First Word Will Be Dada, by Jimmy Fallon ($12.84)
All Natural Beard Conditioning Oil ($14.99)
1st Father’s Day Onesie ($21.00)
Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD Pocket KnifeÂ ($24.99)
SENSO Bluetooth Headphones Wireless Sports Earphones ($37.97)
Daniel Wellington Men’s Watch w/ Black Leather BandÂ ($89.99)
Slim Minimalist Genuine Leather Front Pocket Wallet ($12.99)
Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote | Streaming Media Player ($39.99)
Vintage Leather Canvas Travel Toiletry Bag Shaving KitÂ ($18.99)
YETI Rambler 20 oz Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Tumbler with Lid ($24.99)
Bevel Shave System Kit ($75.95)
Dad’s Playbook: Wisdom for Fathers from the Greatest Coaches of All Time ($7.67)
Oversized Canvas Genuine Leather Travel Weekend Bag ($46.99)
Dad Mug ($19.98)
BBQ Meat Branding Iron with Changeable Letters ($15.97)

What are you getting your honey for Father’s Day this year? How are you celebrating?!

xo, Ashley (1)

P.S. Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE. Subscribers are automatically entered to win bi-monthly Mama Must-Have Giveaways!
Pin this list for the next time you need an eleventh-hour gift for a guy in your life:

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. If you utilize a link to make a purchase, I make a small commission at no cost to you.

June 4, 2017August 7, 2017 - Ashley 23 Comments

How A Baby Changes Everything

This post is sponsored by Carter’s; however, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Although they are little, babies sure can create BIG change in our lives.

From the day Taylor was born until today SO much has changed for us. If you follow us on Instagram you probably already know that we moved to our new home/city last weekend and that in about a month I will be leaving a 10+ year, successful career to stay home with Taylor. If interested, you can read more about that decision HERE. The reason for mass amounts of change in a relatively short timeframe? An itty, bitty newborn baby who has grown way too quickly into an {almost} full blown toddler.

Our move represents the incredible way that a baby can change your internal + external priorities and reality…

Before and even during pregnancy, I thought I wanted to be a working mom of 1 child only, and my hubby and I had our life planned accordingly. We certainly didn’t think that, within a year of T’s birth, that we would reorganize our financial and physical life in order to allow me to stay at home with her. Nor did we imagine we would search for a home that would be able to (hopefully, someday, no I’m not pregnant) accommodate another baby! But, as I am sure you have experienced in your own way, a baby can be quite the catalyst for change.

As we packed up the home we spent our first year as a family in I couldn’t stop thinking of all the memories we made in those rooms and how much growing we all did in different ways. However, I’m super excited for this new chapter in our lives. It will be one with undoubtedly less “me time,” but filled with so much more “us” time and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.

Luckily, through all of the change, Carter’s has us covered. Taylor has grown up in their zip-up playsuits (hello, easy diaper changes!) and I may or may not have spent WAY too much money during their Memorial Day sale on tons of the cutest swimsuits and outfits for Taylor’s summer. Carter’s has compiled some of their most classic, tried & true styles (including the zip-up playsuits) to comprise the Little Baby Basics Collection.

Little Baby Basics baby clothes are sized newborn through 24 months. As your baby – and you – go through all the changes (and growth spurts) involved in the first 1+ year of their life this is a line of baby boy clothes and baby girl clothes that you can count on for consistent quality, affordable prices, comfort and – very importantly – cuteness! I mean, look at the elephant detail…those pant ruffles… *sigh*

The Original Body Suits from the Little Baby Basics Collection, like the ones Taylor is shown wearing throughout this post, are must-haves in any baby wardrobe. They are sold (for incredibly reasonable prices) in packs of 5 coordinating patterns + designs which also makes them an adorable baby shower gift.

Carter’s has offered a generous coupon to my readers, available now through July 4th, 2017. With this coupon, you’ll receive 20% off their already great prices if you spend $40 or more, in store or online. Stock up for now, later or even a future baby shower gift:

Not sure where your local Carter’s store is? You can find the nearest store by clicking here.

Happy Shopping and remember to savor each and every moment with your little one/s – it flies by too quickly not to!

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