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Hey, Moms! Love Wine? Winc Wine Club Has Got You Covered!
ProductsReviews

Hey, Moms! Love Wine? Winc Wine Club Has Got You Covered!

by Modi Ramos
written by Modi Ramos

I think it goes without saying that most moms love wine. It’s this “mom juice” that relaxes us after a long day and helps us unwind. Whether you like to sip yours on the patio, in a luxurious bubble bath once the kids are asleep, or just chilling out watching your favorite shows on DVR, wine is the perfect way to relax for almost any occasion.

But what about when you’ve had a particularly long day, and you are too lazy or simply too tired to run to the store for a bottle of vino? Winc.com has got you covered!

Hundreds of thousands of wine lovers just like you and me have tried Winc and fallen in love with its mission: to make great wine accessible to you, all while being totally convenient.

About Winc Wines…

Winc was founded in 2012 by Xander Oxman and Geoff McFarlane because of a shared belief that wine should be more accessible: simpler to get and easier to enjoy. They joined forces with winemaker and sommelier Brian Smith to build a personalized wine club that has quickly grown into Winc—a California-based winery offering an online membership experience, with wines that are featured at select retailers and restaurants nationwide.

Moms have enough on their plate, and there’s something nice about someone else making recommendations for you at the end of the day. When you sign up with Winc, there’s a brief quiz to gain insight into your preferences and tastes, so that their wine connoisseurs can make suggestions for you based on your likes. It’s appropriately titled the “Palate Profile Quiz” — and you’ll quickly see why as you complete the fun 6-question quiz!

The booklets and Winc straws were certainly a nice touch when my order arrived!

For my order, I was pleasantly surprised once my lovely shipment arrived. I’d chosen all reds, as I’m a bubbly or red wine gal, and there was one bottle in particular that really wowed me and my palate. (It was the TNL if you’re wondering, so.good.)

Life is all about options, and so is Winc!

Shipments come equipped with FedEx tracking, and it’s important that someone age 21 is available for the delivery. Sorry, moms, wine can’t be left on your doorstep…or handed over to a toddler!

With Winc, there’s no firm contract or worry about being stuck with wine that you aren’t crazy about. Everything is clearly laid out for you on their website, and their main goal is for you, their valued customer, to love the wine that you’re drinking.

The Winc commitment to you:

I’ve tried a few different wine clubs, but Winc is hands down my preferred choice. Not only are the wines delicious, but the palate quiz certainly made a difference because my selections were enjoyed down to the last drop. We know that you will love Winc as much as we do. To get you started, we want to offer you $20 off your first order!

If you’re ready to see what Winc is all about, we have a special offer code just for our loyal LifeAsMama readers. To get started, all you have to do is visit trywinc.com/lifeasmama OR use lifeasmama at checkout through winc.com.

Really, it’s just that simple to have wonderful hand-picked wine just for you sent right to your front door.

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amazon echo dot kids edition
Reviews

Here’s Why We Love The Amazon Echo Dot Kids Edition (and you will, too!)

by Karly Wood
written by Karly Wood

Ready or not technology is changing the way we raise our kids. From math games on computers, to learning the ABC on tablets, our kiddos are taking in sights and sounds quicker than we ever did growing up. As a parent, I’m always a little nervous when it comes to the kinds of content that reach my daughter’s little eyes and ears and that’s why I was elated to find that Amazon has just released the Echo Dot Kids Edition!

If you are already a proud owner of an Echo and familiar with Alexa, you know how helpful she can be. Hear the weather, news, music, and even jokes––Alexa quickly becomes a member of your family. With Amazon’s newest device, the Echo Dot Kids Edition takes the best things you love about your current Alexa-enabled devices and makes them safe for kids.

echo dot kids edition

To start, the new Echo Dot comes in fun colors! Choose from cases in red, green or blue for that kid-friendly vibe (the actual device is still black). You’ll notice right off the bat the color also serves a purpose- it’s a kid-proof bumper that’s built to last. Even better, this kids-version comes with a 2-year warranty (the regular Dots only come with 1 year) so if the kids decide to use it as a frisbee, you’re covered!

amazon echo dot kids edition

amazon echo dot kids edition

Let’s get to the innards of the Echo Dot Kids Edition though. When you get your hands on one, you’re treated to one free year of Amazon’s FreeTime Unlimited subscription. This service gives access to hundreds of kids Audible books, premium Alexa skills, safe and kid-friendly music with no ads and tons of playlists, educational content and games!

The best part about FreeTime is that parents are completely involved in setting limits for the kiddos when they use the Parent Dashboard. Not only can you see the types of activities your child has been doing on the Echo Dot Kids Edition, such as music and games, but you can also set limits so Alexa turns off at bedtime (no midnight chat sessions!) and filter explicit content. You can also rest easy because voice shopping is not enabled––no surprise packages!

echo dot kids edition

I’ll be honest that in my house, one of our favorite features is the “Drop In.” When you have multiple Alexa-enabled devices in your home, you can set up the feature to talk to each other from different rooms! My 5-year old loves “dropping in” to say hi from her room (even though I can usually just hear her anyways). Tons of parents love using this to call the kids to dinner and I’m sure, telling everyone to hit the hay.

echo dot kids edition

The main use for the Echo Dot Kids Edition in our house is actually for my daughter’s daily quiet time. Since she’s 5, she no longer takes naps which was a huge challenge for me since I work from home. That nap time was precious and integral for me to get my work done! Instead, we have an hour and fifteen minutes of quiet time, where she has to stay in her room with the door closed. She can play whatever she wants, but has to stay in her room.

echo dot kids edition

Alexa has honestly made daily Quiet Time SO much more enjoyable for both of us! My daughter now has music to keep her entertained (We are big Disney Princesses playlist fans from IHeartRadio) and I can have some peace and quiet to get work done. When she wants to play, I hear her playing Rock, Paper, Scissors or Hide and Seek with Alexa. She sings along to her favorite tunes, and is old enough to tell Alexa “thumbs down” when she doesn’t like a particular song.

At five-years-old she’s perfectly capable of controlling Alexa on her own for basic utterances like requesting music, dropping in and turning Alexa off. She still needs a little help for longer requests, like opening a music player and finding a specific playlist, but we’re getting better!

echo dot kids edition

If you’re on the fence about whether an Alexa-enabled device is right for your family, here is a short list of ways you can use the Echo Dot Kids Edition in your home:

  • Quiet Time
  • Alternative to Screen Time
  • Bedtime Stories
  • Audio Books- great for kids who can’t read yet!
  • Setting morning alarms (you get FUN characters to wake you up when you have FreeTime Unlimited!)
  • Drop Ins
  • Educational games

Just like most technology, things are always changing and improving! Every week, we get an email telling us new ways to put Alexa to good use, and we’re excited to see what she’s going to be capable of in the future.

The Echo Dot Kids Edition is available on Amazon for $79.99.

 

I received an Echo Dot Kids Edition free for my honest review. All stated opinions are true and my own.

 

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Here's Why We Love The Amazon Echo Dot Kids Edition (and you will, too!)

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formula feeding
HealthReviews

Fed Is Best: Supporting Moms No Matter Their Feeding Choice

by Amanda Foust
written by Amanda Foust

**Sponsored post by Mirum. All opinions are my own.**

One of the common conflicts among mothers causing deep divides and wars is the breastfeeding versus formula feeding debate. I remember when I was in the infant phase two years ago with my son and was genuinely terrified to ever discuss my feeding decisions with a mom. I KNEW there were two very separate sides of the spectrum and I wasn’t going to be able to please them both. When you have a newborn, friends and family are quick to offer opinions on feeding methods, sleep schedules, and everything in between. We all appreciate the well-­intentioned advice, but sometimes a new mom simply needs the affirmation that her choice matters — even if that choice includes a bottle!

“Breast is best” is a popular mantra. But I’m an advocate for “fed is best.” There are two people involved in a mother/child relationship, and BOTH matter! My first child came through adoption. She was a year and a half, but she needed formula to counteract the malnourishment she had suffered. It was an easy choice in that regard. But my son was biological, and my body was given the high expectation of being able to feed my child. I nursed for ten months, but I was also in the process of getting my life coaching certification that required me to be away for a couple days each month. During this time, I unashamedly relied on formula. It was best for both me and the baby.

And the day that my son decided he was done nursing (not gradually but drastically just STOPPED), I grabbed for formula in desperation and didn’t turn back because fed is best!

Whether a mom breastfeeds, bottle feeds, or supplements with formula, let’s commend her for making the best choice for her baby. When it comes to feeding time, “Mother knows best!”

If you’re looking for a formula that easily fits all your baby’s nutritional needs, is a nationally trusted brand, and cares about mother’s everywhere, Parent’s Choice® makes the decision easy.

Parent’s Choice® is one of the best options on the market. If you’ve ever been to a Walmart store, the Parent’s Choice® brand has no doubt caught your eye. Their top of the line toddler and baby products are clinically proven to help support developmental advancement and growth within little ones.

Having been exclusively available at Walmart since 1988 and a leading choice for millions of parents across the Unites States, Parent’s Choice® fully understands a mothers’ need to ensure that her baby receives only the best. Which is why their line of infant formula is both easily digestible for babies and nutritionally comparable to the more expensive infant formulas on the market today. Their brand even extends beyond infant formula to include toddler formula, pediatric nutritional beverages, baby and toddler food, and pediatric electrolyte rehydration solution.

Just take a look at some of their awesome products:

Parent’s Choice® Premium Powder Infant Formula

  • Value Size 35oz- Makes 65, 4 oz. bottles
  • Clinically proven to support growth and development  

Parent’s Choice® Advantage Tub Powder Stage 2 Formula

  • Value Size 35oz
  • Suitable for babies 6-12 months

Parent’s Choice® Sensitivity Canned Powder Infant Formula

  • Available in Value Size 33.2oz – Makes 59, 4oz bottles
  •  For fussiness & gas

Parent’s Choice® Gentle Infant Formula with Iron

  • Available in Value Size 33.2oz – Makes 60, 4 oz. bottles
  •  For fussiness, gas and crying

No matter what you decide, trust your mama instincts and do what’s best for both you and the baby! And remember, “Fed is best!”

Enter for a chance to win over $800 in prizes!

The Parent’s Choice Formula Feeding Time Summer 2017 Sweepstakes

 

formula feeding

Amanda Foust

Amanda Foust

Amanda is a wife, mother, writer/editor, and certified life coach. Pen and paper make her spirit come alive. She spends her creative time reading, decorating, and handwriting fonts. Her world is better with an assortment of chocolate and a stack of books packed and ready for travel. She works each day to be a creative maker and a light bringer. You can find more of her writing at Downs, Ups & Teacups and TheDailyPositive.com.
Amanda Foust

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munchpak
Reviews

A Snackers Dream: MunchPak Review

by Karly Wood
written by Karly Wood

This post contains affiliate links.

I’ve always loved snacks. Crackers and cookies are dear friends of mine, and somehow there is always room in my stomach for a snack. When I was contacted by the awesome people at MunchPak, I couldn’t say no to the offer of trying a box for my honest review. Once I placed my order, my MunchPak arrived in less than 3 days and I could get snacking!

I was shocked at how much was squeezed into this modest-sized box, but definitely pleased. A nice card was included with some fun facts about MunchPak:

munchpak

Right away I dove into the box and recognized some awesome snacks from my childhood. Can we just stop and stand amazed at ALL THE SNACKS in here? I mean, that’s a ton!munchpak

Just in case you can’t see everything, some of the snacks included:

  • A bottle of root bear- buttercream flavored
  • Koala’s March cookies
  • Mentos
  • Pretz
  • Hi-Chews
  • Trolli Sour Sloths
  • Toffee Waffles
  • Sriracha Nuts

Always one for sweet and sour, I immediately dug into the Trolli Sour Brite Sloths. Yes, not worms- SLOTHS. I’ve never seen this version, but it made me laugh.

munchpak

And my 4-year old daughter apparently has the same taste in treats that I do:

munchpak

 

It’s taken me awhile to work through all the snacks but I have to confess that I dug RIGHT into the Koala’s March cookies. These are straight out of my childhood and I wasted no time in eating them and then texting all my family members.munchpak

 

I enjoyed several things about these fun snack box:

  1. The amount of snacks that came in the box
  2. How they came from all over the world! I had snacks from Great Britain, the Philippines, and Australia to name a few.
  3. The variety of chocolate, chewy, salty and spicy options.

Personally, I am not a fan of spicy things so I did give away some of those snacks to friends who told me they were DELICIOUS. Overall, I would definitely enjoy another MunchPak if given the choice! If you’re interested in receiving your own subscription, head over to MunchPak.com!

 

munchpak

Karly Wood

Karly Wood

Editor at Red Tricycle
I'm a born and bred Southern California native and currently the managing editor at Red Tri. I get to share my life with my husband of 13 years and our beautiful, 5-year old daughter. In my free time you'll catch me cheering for the Dodgers, cooking, baking, reading, crafting and probably watching a little HGTV!
Karly Wood

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My 2017 Emily Ley Simplified Planner Review
Reviews

My 2017 Emily Ley Simplified Planner Review

by Amanda Foust
written by Amanda Foust

Planners are something that I never replace with technology. I’ve tried and failed many times. There’s just something about a pen and paper checklist that makes me feel more protective and on top of things! I have been one who tries many planners, so I can easily tell you the pros and cons and the ins and outs of some of the most popular planners! In fact, we have written several reviews and round-ups about planners here on Life As Mama!

That’s why I was beyond excited when we were contacted by Emily Ley to review their most popular product. The Simplified Planner is one I was honored to review! Before we get into the review, we wanted to share some tips that come straight from the lovely people at Emily Ley to help you get the most out of using a planner.

  • Our #1 tip is pretty simple! USE your planner. Planners won’t help you stay organized or keep track of your life, if you don’t write things down and use those pages.
  • Keep your Simplified Planner where it’s always accessible. Maybe that’s your purse, office desk or kitchen counter.
  • Carve out time at the end of each day to plan for the next day and/or reserve a few minutes on the weekend to prep for the week ahead.
  • Think through what’s most important to you. Schedule time for those things first.
  • Don’t be afraid to get your planner messy. Scribble notes. Scratch things out. Be comfortable with white space.
  • Use color coding to keep track of various commitments (assign work, family, school, etc each it’s own color). Or assign each child a color on your pages.
  • Paperclip important recipes or coupons to the pages of your planner. These things won’t end up at the bottom of your purse – and you’ll always know where they are!

To change things up a bit, we decided to share our review through a video! Check it out below!

 

So, what do you think? Find out more information by visiting the Simplified Planner website here. 

simplified planner simplified planner simplified planner

simplified planner simplified planner

simplified planner

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DockATot
Reviews

Why The DockATot Is My Favorite Baby Product

by Ellice Vargas
written by Ellice Vargas

With so many new products hitting the baby market each year it can feel impossible to keep up with what you truly need for your new babe. We could easily fill our homes with all kinds of cool and trendy baby items but how much of it do we truly need? I know for me, the products that can have me sold in a hot second are anything that promises a full night’s sleep. While I know this can’t actually be guaranteed, it doesn’t stop me from looking up anything that will help my babe sleep better at 3 am. When I heard of DockATot I knew it would be perfect for my little guy. He has loved being held and snuggled 24/7 since birth. I can’t blame him really, but I know that getting a good nights rest is the best thing for him and me.

DockATot

Around 3 months we experienced the dreaded sleep regression and it’s been torture, pure torture. I was used to sleeping 9pm-5am at night when he started waking up multiple times at night again. Thats when I knew something needed to change. Enter the DockATot™. It comes in two different sizes, the Deluxe and the Grand and it can be used for safe co-sleeping, supervised tummy time and naps, lounging and play. Not only does it create a cozy womb-like experience for babies, it is also 100% breathable which give us mamas (and daddies) a huge peace of mind.  Another plus it the fact it’s super lightweight and easy to travel with. Which means it’s perfect to take with you on-the-go to the park, beach or Grandma’s house.

DockATot

Although the Deluxe goes up to 8 months I decided to get the grand since my baby boy is already 5 months and I would like to use it into his toddler years. It’s also great to help with the crib to big kid bed transition. My only regret is not having the deluxe since birth. I honestly feel like this would have been a game changer for those early sleep deprived newborn days.

DockATot

 

I love to use the Dock around the house during the day and the best part is watching my two babies lounge together and snuggle. It makes the perfect spot for reading and cuddles.

DockATot

DockATot

If this isn’t on your registry, then run and put it on right away. You wont regret it!

dockatot

Ellice Vargas

Ellice Vargas

I'm a British gal and mama to one sweet daughter. I love a good DIY project, interior design and photography. When I'm not writing for Life As Mama, I'm traveling as much as I can with my little family and filling up my camera roll with snapshots of our life.
Ellice Vargas

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The Perfect Headphones For Easy Screen Time: CozyPhones
Reviews

The Perfect Headphones For Easy Screen Time: CozyPhones

by Amanda Foust
written by Amanda Foust

When I heard about CozyPhones headphones, I was very intrigued! I used to always be the mama who was strict with screen time until I began working from home. Then the addition of screen time into our daily routine became vital! However, my kiddos can never agree on the same shows. So we go back and forth. My daughter chooses a show and then my son gets a turn — all the while the other complains until it’s his/her turn to choose. Needless to say, it’s a bit distracting and a constant battle I never have the energy to fight.

So I tried another option to make screentime go a little smoother…headphones!

My sister purchased a “Frozen themed” headphone set for my daughter so she could watch a show on the Ipad while my son watched the TV. (Thank goodness for aunts!!) However, the interruptions didn’t stop, they simply morphed to me adjusting my daughter’s headphones every few minutes as they would slide off her head and ears, she would become tangled, and we both would become more and more frustrated.

Thank goodness I found CozyPhones!

When we were introduced to CozyPhones, we finally found the right fit — both figuratively and literally! Not only were these headbands adorably cute, they also stay on my kids’ heads in a comfortable, non-slip way! I only have to adjust them ONCE when I first put them on.

Anything I can do as a mama that saves me time and frustration, I AM ON BOARD! I can’t be the only one who struggles with kiddos and their screen time.

Maybe you travel a lot with your littles or a few of them are introverts and need a way to seclude themselves for a bit and reenergize. If that’s the case, CozyPhones is definitely something to consider!

These super light headphones work perfectly with Apple iPhone, iPad, iPod, Android, Samsung Galaxy, Blackberry, Nokia, LG, HTC, Google Nexus, Lenovo, Asus, Sony, Dell, Toshiba, HP, MP3, MP4 and other audio devices.

These headphones have also been the first choice for parents who have children with autism or sensory processing disorder. You can read more about that here.

To purchase a pair of CozyPhones, visit their website. There are several different looks to choose from. Enjoy your well-deserved, distraction-free quiet time, Mamas!

headphones headphones headphones headphones headphones

 

headphones

 

Amanda Foust

Amanda Foust

Amanda is a wife, mother, writer/editor, and certified life coach. Pen and paper make her spirit come alive. She spends her creative time reading, decorating, and handwriting fonts. Her world is better with an assortment of chocolate and a stack of books packed and ready for travel. She works each day to be a creative maker and a light bringer. You can find more of her writing at Downs, Ups & Teacups and TheDailyPositive.com.
Amanda Foust

Latest posts by Amanda Foust (see all)

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egalo Home Accents Gate
Reviews

Top 5 Rated Baby Gates On Amazon For Moms

by Guest Post
written by Guest Post

When your baby is mobile, baby gates become a necessity to help keep your baby safe and contained to a certain area within your home. There are many choices for the best baby gates and your search might become overwhelming. We have narrowed it down to what we believe are the five best baby gates. Hopefully, these reviews will help you find the top baby gates out there to keep your little one safe and give you peace of mind.

Consider the layout of your home when you begin your search for the top baby gates available. Will the gate be keeping your baby from a stairway or blocking off a hallway? How tall or wide will the gate need to be to serve its purpose?

(This post contains affiliate links)

egalo Home Accents Gate

Get It On Amazon

1. Regalo Home Accents Extra Tall Walk Thru Gate, Hardwood and Steel

Number of Ratings on Amazon: 1,378

Star Ratings on Amazon: 4.4

The Regalo Home Accents Extra Tall Walk Thru Gate is designed with hard-wood inserts, a premium finish and steel construction. The four pressure mounts can each be adjusted to allow for a quick install without the need for tools. The gate is 38 inches tall and can fit openings between 29-1/2 to 44 inches wide. Simply pushing the gate closed will engage the locking system. This gate is reasonably priced at $45.53, but if you have a wide space there is an additional extension sold separately.

Summer Infant Multi-Use Deco Extra Tall Walk-Thru Gate

Get It On Amazon

2. Summer Infant Multi-Use Deco Extra Tall Walk-Thru Gate

Number of Ratings on Amazon: 4,112

Star Ratings on Amazon: 4.5

Sometimes you need a taller gate to keep your pet in a separate area from your child, and you might appreciate this gate option if you have a larger pet. The gate is 36″ tall, fits openings from 28-48″ wide and accommodates baseboards. Convenient pressure mounted installation allows for ease of use between rooms, but there is also optional hardware for installation on stairways. The attractive design, one handed walk-thru, and dual locking system make this gate a good value at $52.99.

Regalo 192-Inch Super Wide Gate and Play Yard

Get It On Amazon

3. Regalo 192-Inch Super Wide Gate and Play Yard

Number of Ratings on Amazon: 2,036

Star Ratings on Amazon: 4.4

There are spaces that don’t work well with a traditional hallway-sized baby gate, but the Regalo 192-inch Super Wide Gate and Play Yard has the option to become a 192-inch wall mounted gate or free standing barrier. Furthermore, this gate has eight removable panels that can be configure to enclose 19 square feet. Another nice feature is that the gate folds flat for storage and travel. With so many versatile configuration options, this gate is great value for the money at $79.98.

Carlson 44-Inch Extra Wide Walk Through Gate with Pet Door

Get It On Amazon

4. Carlson 44-Inch Extra Wide Walk Through Gate with Pet Door, 29 to 44-Inch

Number of Ratings on Amazon: 4,146

Star Ratings on Amazon: 4.3

If you are a family with small pets, this gate might be what you are looking for. The Carlson 44-Inch Extra Wide Walk Through Gate with Pet Door has a patented pet door that is 10 inches by 7 inches, which allows smaller pets to pass through while everyone else remains where they are. There is a pressure mount system or a wall mount system and the all-steel construction is sturdy, non-toxic, and chew-proof. The gate itself expands from 29-34 inches and stands at 30 inches tall. A one-touch release safety lock is convenient and at $32.99 this gate is an exceptional value.

North States Supergate Deluxe Décor Metal Gate

Get It On Amazon

5. North States Supergate Deluxe Décor Metal Gate

Number of Ratings on Amazon: 2,116

Star Ratings on Amazon: 4.5

If you are looking for a gate to fit an extra wide opening, you might appreciate the North States Supergate Deluxe Décor Metal Gate. This gate is able to adjust to fit openings ranging between 38.3 to 70 inches wide and 30 inches high. You can keep the gate panel open by using the hold-open feature, which keeps the gate from shutting. Busy parents could appreciate the swinging walk-through arched door panel that has a child-proof double-locking system because it can open and close with one hand. Keep in mind, there are extensions that are sold at an extra cost to expand the gate to 13 feet, and a maximum of six extensions can be used. This gate costs $72.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.

 

There will be advantages and disadvantages to any purchase, but the pros should outweigh the cons when looking for baby gates. Keep in mind where you will be installing the baby gate to help you make the best decision. Hopefully these reviews of the top baby gates will give you an idea for the best baby gate for your needs.

 

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Supported in Breastfeeding: Stories of Nourishing Wisdom | Book Review
BabyReviews

Supported in Breastfeeding: Stories of Nourishing Wisdom | Book Review

by Jordyn Smith
written by Jordyn Smith

Natural, essential, beautiful, and inspiring. The simple, yet powerful act of breastfeeding is about thousand things all rolled into one. For some mothers, choosing to breastfeed is a monumental experience, and for others, it is as easy an act as breathing in and out.

There are a lot of politics surrounding breastfeeding these days. The where, when, why, and how’s can become muddled. Unconsciously shaping a mother’s opinions and decisions.

My own breastfeeding journey was a tumultuous one, filled with tears from both me and my son, as well as countless sleepless nights, and hours on the phone with every mother I was at all close with. While my decision to alternate between breastfeeding and bottle-feeding was ultimately decided by my baby’s own needs and preferences, I like to think that my journey was just as important as any other mothers.

Source: Serenity Grows

As an avid reader, and the owner of a shiny new Kindle, I’m always on the lookout for great books. Sometimes that means literary classics or sappy romance novels and other times it means beautiful, heartwarming, books filled with incredibly moving tales of love, perseverance, and motherhood.

Which is why Supported in Breastfeeding: Stories of Nourishing Wisdom by Maranda Bower, was the perfect read for me. I’ll admit, it took me a while to get through this book. Normally when this happens, it is because of waning interest in the storyline. With Supported in Breastfeeding, it was the exact opposite.

The author, Maranda Bower, is an amazing birth and postpartum educator who, along with telling her own story, has invited a multitude of women with different experiences to tell their own tales.

Made up almost entirely of a series of beautiful and incredibly real essays by mothers detailing their breastfeeding experiences, I found it almost impossible not to fall in love with this book.

Supported in Breastfeeding is incredibly diverse. While it’s true that all of the stories detail breastfeeding in some form or other, no essay is the same. Even if their experiences are similar, each mother pens her tale in such a gorgeously unique way that each essay is a completely new experience.

Source: Serenity Grows

While almost all of the essays in the book detail the all too relatable struggles that come along with breastfeeding, every single one of them leaves you with an almost overwhelming sense of hope and unity.

My experience with Supported in Breastfeeding was one that I won’t soon forget. It made me laugh, cry, and even pump my fist into the air a few times. It has been a while since I have been so moved by a book that I dreaded the fact that it was going to end. I’m sure, if given the chance, I could have read on forever. Reveling in the quiet strength and beauty of motherhood and drawing endless inspiration from all the brave mamas and their emotional stories.

I honestly can’t recommend this book enough. Pregnant women, new mothers, and those a bit more seasoned. Finding something moving and inspiring in this book is about as easy as pie.

You can purchase Supported in Breastfeeding: Stories of Nourishing Wisdom on Amazon

You can also find more information on the book and the author Maranda Bower at Serenity Grows

Jordyn Smith

Jordyn Smith

A city girl currently living it up in the south with my little family. I love baking, hoarding makeup, and daydreaming. If I'm not writing, I'm probably trying to think up weird pizza recipes or watching Property Brothers.
Jordyn Smith

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My First S&G Beauty Box Experience
Reviews

My First S&G Beauty Box Experience

by Karly Wood
written by Karly Wood

As a busy mom, there’s nothing I like more than having a little time to myself. Having a three year old, this does not happen often. Moments like these are typically found when the day is all but done, and my bubbly girl has gone to bed. Personally, I find the best “me time” when I can pamper myself and not have to worry about smudging wet nails or scaring my daughter with a rejuvenating face mask. That’s why I was so excited to be the lucky recipient of the November S&G Beauty Box, through Crate Joy. This special subscription box is all about natural beauty products, and they don’t disappoint. The November box came with 6 items and here is my review!

(This post contains affiliate links)

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This month’s box was packed with goodies that included nail polish, lip scrub, a face mask, eye cream, hair serum and body scrub. All came properly sealed (no leaks, yay!) and in great looking packaging.img_2410

The first product I tried was the Candy Floss Lip Scrub, because hey, it’s winter and my lips are always dry. This is hands-down the best tasting lip scrub I’ve ever used! Simply dip your finger in the pot, grab some scrub, buff away and either rinse or eat. It’s all-natural so you don’t have to worry about pesky chemicals! I especially liked that it was safe to use because my 3 year old has super dry lips and she needed a little scrubby scrub too. Now, the only problem I have is keeping her away from using it all!

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Next I tried the Cool As A Cucumber eye cream. It’s a vegan product that’s silky smooth and refreshing. I ran out of my regular anti-aging eye cream and have been using this in the meantime. I don’t necessarily see a difference in regards to firming of the skin, but it also isn’t calling itself an anti-aging product! I love that it’s super moisturizing and easy to apply.

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I have pretty dry and curly hair so this next product really caught my attention, the Feed Your Shine Hair Serum. Guys, this is hard because I’ve never really had to write a less than positive review, but I just could not handle this product for one reason: It.Smelled.AWFUL. I mistakenly didn’t smell it before applying to my freshly washed hair and boy, did I ever regret it. The product says its naturally fragranced with Roman Chamomile oils, and I’m a regular essential oil user so I didn’t think twice. However, this did not resemble the aroma of Roman Chamomile in any way. Once I put it on, my hair smelled like a mixture of mold and cigarette smoke. I had my husband smell it to make sure it wasn’t just me and he agreed- smelly. I could barely stand the smell of this product, and no amount of hairspray, perfume or dry shampoo would cover it up. Sorry, Feed Your Shine, not for me!

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I have pretty sensitive skin and even though all these products are all-natural, I was still a little nervous about trying a face mask. However this Josie & Hue “The White” clay face mask was awesome! It comes in a cute, glass jar (which I will totally be repurposing) and has TONS of product inside. You only need a little bit of the clay powder and a small amount of water. Mix together in your hand and then smooth in your face. Allow the mask to dry for 10-15 minutes and then rinse off. It left my skin feeling firm, and with no negative reaction on my sensitive skin. I will definitely be including this in my beauty regime going forward.

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Next I tried the Joe Scrub, a “coffee-based” face and body product. Let me tell you, it’s straight up COFFEE! If you love the idea of walking around smelling like a cup of joe then this product is for you. The ingredients are probably all things you have in your pantry, like coffee and sea salt. I tried this scrub on my super dry hands and walked away with smoother skin and definitely the aroma of java. I recommend only using this at a sink or in the shower because it’s VERY messy. If you were to use this in the bath, you would definitely be floating in coffee grounds. I personally will only be using this as a spot scrub, not on my entire body. While I do love the smell of coffee, it’s just a bit strong for me to be covered in it.

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The final product was a beautiful nail polish, Tied Down by Deco Miami. I’ll admit- I haven’t had time to actually sit and paint my nails without disruption so this product has been starting at me from my bathroom. Deco Miami makes this great polish 8-free, meaning it is free from the common chemicals found in most nail polishes! This is safe for everyone to use, even the kiddos. This shade reminds me of Chanel’s Vamp, but without the scary chemicals.

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I have to say that this is a great box for moms or any beauty lover. The variety of products was amazing and the all-natural products make it safe for people with any skin type, especially sensitive skin like myself! I can also imagine this box being a great subscription to give as a gift! Who doesn’t love a box full of surprises every month?

If you’d like to check out the S&G Beauty Box for yourself, head over to Crate Joy!

I received this box for free, but all opinions are honest and my own.

Karly Wood

Karly Wood

Editor at Red Tricycle
I'm a born and bred Southern California native and currently the managing editor at Red Tri. I get to share my life with my husband of 13 years and our beautiful, 5-year old daughter. In my free time you'll catch me cheering for the Dodgers, cooking, baking, reading, crafting and probably watching a little HGTV!
Karly Wood

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