On the day I write this, I am 10 days post-surgery.

My surgery involved the removal of my uterus (hysterectomy), removal of one (and a half) diseased ovaries (partial oophorectomy), and a cystectomy, which is the excision of multiple cysts and endometriomas.

*Prior to going into surgery, you will be asked, probably multiple times, “what surgery are you having today?”, so it’s important to know the technical terms. They want to make sure you fully understand – and consent to – the organs they are about to remove. 

*My surgery was complicated. If you are going in for a simple hysterectomy – or even a simple oophorectomy, I would expect your recovery to be faster and easier than mine.

In the process, they also removed my appendix, my fallopian tubes, my cervix and a whole bunch of endometrial tissue that was errantly growing inside my abdominal cavity. 

Endometrial tissue looks like dried glue and had adhered to many of my organs, including my bladder, bowel and ureters. In fact, the tissue had wrapped around my right ureter so badly, it was almost completely obstructed. Of course, no one knew any of this until they got in there to see what was actually going on.

This is one of the biggest challenges of endometriosis: you can’t see it from the outside.

When my surgeon came around the next day, she took my hand and said, “it was pretty bad in there, how have you been living like this?”. 

I could have cried (but I knew it would hurt too much, LOL). 

At that moment, I felt so unbelievably vindicated.

Getting Ready for Hysterectomy

In the weeks leading up to your surgery, it will behoove you to get your body into good shape. If you go in strong, it will make your recovery quicker and easier. If you are a caffeine fiend, you may want to consider weaning yourself of caffeine leading up to your surgery. There will be about 3 days (at least) where you cannot have coffee (you won’t want it, rather), and the withdrawal will not help your situation.

Day Before Surgery

The day before your surgery, you will most likely have to do a “bowel prep” to empty your bowel so the surgeons have more space to work. 

I was dreading this part, as I’d never done it before, but it really wasn’t that bad. The harder part was not being able to eat solid food for about 36 hours prior to surgery. A hearty broth is your best friend the day before surgery; you don’t want to become weak and hangry.

The day of your surgery, you won’t be able to eat at all. This sucks if your surgery is in the afternoon like mine was. Note that you might not know the time your surgery is scheduled for until the day before. Note also you will likely lose several pounds this week and the next. 

Surgery Day

The morning of your surgery, you’ll be asked to shower and clean your body really well with a potent antibacterial soap. Make sure you stay as clean as possible before your surgery; this will reduce your infection risk. 

Try to stay as calm as possible – find your happy, calm place. Turn off your phone so you aren’t too overwhelmed by texts and… people. 

Think positively – it’s going to be okay! You’ll be so relieved when it’s all over.

If you are prone to nausea, especially from anesthesia, make sure to tell the doctors and nurses beforehand!! I will talk a lot about managing nausea because I think it’s commonly overlooked.

Waking Up

Waking up from surgery can take a while, depending on how long you were under. I was under for 4.5 hours, so I was very groggy for days, especially the first 2 days. If you are only under for an hour or two, you won’t feel groggy for as long. 

My surgery was late in the day, so I stayed that night in the hospital, though some of you will probably go home the same day. There’s no shame in staying a night – or even two. Looking back, there is NO way I could have gone home that night. Absolutely no way.

When you come to, the first thing you will notice is that your throat is very sore from the breathing tube, like you have a frog that you can’t clear. In fact, you may not get your voice back to normal for a few days. 

It will be extremely painful to cough, sneeze, laugh, cry, clear your throat (learned all this the hard way), and it’s doubly painful to vomit, so do whatever you can to prevent those things. You won’t have a lot of energy to talk, so just whisper until you get your voice back .

You will probably wake up with pressers on your lower legs. These are leg massagers that cycle through inflation to keep the blood moving in your lower legs to prevent blood clots. I rather liked that part.

Depending on the time of day, you may be offered food, though I will tell you, you won’t have much of an appetite. But try to eat something, even if it’s just a few bites, and drink, drink, drink because they won’t discharge you until you pee a certain amount. You will likely still have a catheter during the first few hours/night of recovery, so you don’t have to worry about getting up to use the bathroom… yet. 

Gas Pain After Hysterectomy

The pain will be pretty intense when you wake up – and most of it is from gas. When they operate on you, they fill your abdomen with CO2 to create space to maneuver their tools and cameras, and this gas gets trapped inside you after surgery. 

I’m not kidding when I say the gas pain is the worst part of all of this. The pain from the gas is dynamic; sometimes it feels like stabbing pain and sometimes it’s more of a dull ache. It even hurts in your shoulders and your neck (what?). Bottom line: the gas pain is rough. 

I was given Tylenol and Torodol (a strong ibuprofen) after surgery – and was sent home with it. I’ll be the first to tell you it wasn’t enough, so I requested narcotics in the hospital after a night of no sleep. I still don’t know what the big effing deal is about receiving narcotics for a couple of days after a major surgery. They make you feel like an addict for asking for it. I wish it weren’t this way. 

That said, you don’t want to stay on the narcotics longer than you have to. For me, it was about  2 days. Narcotics will contribute to constipation, which is an inevitably of surgery, but you don’t want to make it worse. 

Basically, pain control is all a balance between pain relief and side effects. 

You won’t be able to start passing the gas for about 24 hours after surgery (or more), which is why that first day is so brutal. By about 36 hours, you should start passing the gas, both out your rear and through burping it up and believe me, you will feel a great sense of relief once the gas starts dissipating. 

Nausea after Hysterectomy 

Speaking of the gas, the pain and the fullness of the gas – alone – can cause nausea. Add onto that the anesthesia and, if you are taking narcotics (like Oxy), these can all contribute to nausea. Nausea after hysterectomy can be sheer misery, so it’s very important to control it for the first 3 days after surgery. You do NOT want to be vomiting after abdominal surgery — I can’t think of anything worse. 

In my experience, this is something you have to be very proactive about. I was sent home with Zofran, and I’m so glad I had it. But I had to push for it!

Again, once the gas starts to dissipate, the nausea will also subside — and you’ll start feeling much better.

Walking

They want you to get up and walk in the first 24 hours after surgery, depending on time of day, and once they remove your catheter. 

This will seem like a daunting task. The act of even sitting upright is a challenge, and then figuring out how to swing your legs over so you can stand. Eesh. 

But don’t worry, it gets easier. 

It’s tough the first time you stand to walk. Even getting your body vertical can be a challenge. You may feel very dizzy or nauseous, so take it slow. If you have an abdominal binder, use it. You might feel like your innards are about to spill out of you, so having something to compress the tummy can help you feel more comfortable. 

The thing is walking helps expel the gas, so as uncomfortable as it can be, you need to do it; if you lie in bed all day, the gas won’t come out as readily. 

Going Home

Getting home from the hospital was no picnic. I was in NYC, so we took an Uber. Do yourself a favor and get the Luxury Uber – you will feel every little pothole and bump, not unlike after childbirth.  

Once you get home, just go to bed. I feel like I slept for 2-3 days afterward. 

Two very important things: stay on top of your meds and don’t forget to walk. Hopefully, you’ll have someone taking care of you that can keep a med schedule – and even wake you up in the night to take your meds – and to take you to pee. *Don’t worry, you won’t be pooping for several days or more.

Just rest as much as you can, but don’t neglect to get up and walk every so often, even if it’s just a short distance. 

Leg and Back Pain After Hysterectomy

I had major pain in my lower-right back for the first week after surgery. Apparently, this is common. The back pain will go away in about a week, only to make room for…. the leg pain. 

I still have no idea why my legs hurt so badly – it felt like I had run a marathon, mostly in my upper legs. It may be because of how my legs were positioned during surgery, or perhaps because of sudden underuse. This pain occurred starting about a week after surgery and lasted about a week. 

Hot flashes and Headaches after Hysterectomy

Because they took 1.5 of my ovaries, my estrogen had plummeted and left me with crazy hot flashes and later, headaches. The hot flashes make you feel like you’re running a fever, and actually had me a bit worried that I was (I wasn’t).  

We’ve all heard of hot flashes, but I was not prepared for “hysterectomy headaches”. These actually got worse the 2nd week after surgery, as I still hadn’t received my estrogen that was being sent in the mail (big mistake!).

I’ve read that even the removal of the uterus (alone) can cause these symptoms as well. 

Be sure you have the hormone convo before surgery so you aren’t caught off guard by this. Hysterectomy recovery is miserable enough without dealing with sudden hormone deprivation. *Please see note at bottom regarding hormone replacement!

My appetite came back on the 2nd day, but I was only hungry for very simple things, like toast. Eat whatever appeals to you, you can worry about nutrition later.

By day 3, you should be starting to feel better and by day 5… you might even feel pretty ok. You’ll probably have a post-op appointment on day 5 or 6. This is when they’ll remove the tape from your incisions and make sure all your major systems are back online. 

They’ll also want to make sure you can poop – and might send you home with a laxative which you can (and should) use. The postoperative constipation is real – and your belly might start to get bloated. This will only add to your discomfort. 

On Day 5, I flew home from NYC after my appointment. This was not ideal, but I really wanted to get home. I had lots of help, including wheelchair assistance. *Do yourself a favor and buy a 1st class ticket if you are flying home. 

About a week after your surgery (by day 7 or 8, give or take), you should have turned a corner. 

You might be wondering when you can lay on your side after hysterectomy. For the first few days after the surgery, you’ll be confined to sleeping on your back because of the incisions on your right and left side (for laparoscopic surgery). After about a week, you may be able to start lying and sleeping on your side, if it feels ok. Your body will tell you. 

By Day 8, I was able to have (kind of) a normal day, which felt so good. By Day 10 (today), I feel like I’m getting back into the swing of things. I can drive and walk longer distances, go to the store (although twisting a lot in driving doesn’t feel great). Bending over is not my favorite, but I can do it. I’m relying heavily on my legs vs. bending over.

I can’t lift heavy things (for several weeks) and I don’t have a lot of endurance, but I think it will get better every day. Right now, I can “do” laundry… but I can’t carry the laundry basket. I can cook food and do light cleaning… but I can’t take out the trash because it’s too heavy. Things like that. 

I am told it will take 4 weeks to feel fairly normal, so I’m looking forward to that. Update: I am 4 weeks post-surgery and they were right! Four weeks is about the magic number when you can start easing back into your normal everyday activities. Notice is said EASE. 

I can already feel relief in my body. My hip pain has subsided. My tailbone pain is gone. I can stand after being seated a while for dinner, for example, and not have to brace myself to stand and walk. I had been suffering greatly from Stage 4 endometriosis.

I ceremoniously threw away all my tampons, cups, pads, and period underwear. I’m just so grateful to have ridded myself of endometriosis. I’m so grateful to my surgeons, Drs. Tamer Seckin and Amanda Chu, at  Seckin Endometriosis Center in NYC.

What to Wear After Hysterectomy

In the first few days after your surgery, it’s best to stick to dresses and nightgowns. You don’t want anything against your waist, though I found it was ok to wear regular underwear, as long as it’s not too tight. 

I was able to start wearing loose pants, like sweatpants, after a few days. You can also ease back into yoga pants, as long as the panel around the tummy isn’t too tight. I found that I could wear them for a couple of hours, but then the pressure got too uncomfortable, and I’d switch back to loose sweatpants. 

Maternity pants/jeans would work too, as long as they have a full panel, but honestly, I was most comfortable in dresses and maxi skirts.

Hormone Replacement

Please, please be advised that many OB/Gyns in this country do NOT have proper/current training on menopause care and hormone replacement. Facts. It’s hardly taught in medical school and many (most) practicing Ob/Gyns are using data from a 20 year old WHI study (that has since been debunked) regarding cancer risk and hormone replacement. 

I feel like I could write a 10-page diatribe about this, but please protect yourself from the bad/outdated advice that may be doled out by your well-meaning OB/GYN regarding HRT (hormone replacement treatment), which is now called MHT (menopausal hormone therapy).

Please refer to modern standards for HRT/MHT, as issued by OB/Gyns who are menopause specialists, such as Dr. Corinne Menn and Dr. Mary Claire Haver. Bottom line: estrogen replacement is the gold standard for women undergoing full or partial hysterectomy, unless you have a specific reason you can’t take it. Discuss your situation with a qualified menopause care specialist. If your Ob/Gyn is giving you the runaround, seek another opinion!

Life without hormones is miserable. Fight me on this.

Update:

Hi! I’m 6 weeks post-surgery. Some have asked me when they can go back to work after hysterectomy. They say 6 weeks. If you have a desk/office job, I would think you’d be able to go back around 3-4 weeks, if you had to. If you have a physical job, discuss it with your surgeon. Honestly, hanging out at home can get pretty boring and a little depressing, so maybe easing back into to work isn’t a bad thing. 

My muscles feel weak and it’s been annoying to not be able to use them. I feel like I’ve lost muscle mass and gained fat, but I guess that’s just how it goes after surgery. The situation is temporary (I hope). I’m really looking forward to getting back to the gym and being able to take a bath again!

In conclusion, you’ll need a solid 4 weeks before you can resume activities after hysterectomy, like lifting heavier things, but you should start to fee better after about a week. Be patient. replace our hormones, if you’re able. Ask for help with kids. Don’t push it too hard. You can do this!

The post What to Expect After Hysterectomy appeared first on Lucie's List.

Ah, the joys of parenthood — the first laughs, the cuddles, and oh, the gear! If you’re anything like me, trying to choose the right stroller and car seat can make you feel like you’re preparing to scale Everest rather than just navigate the city streets.

Enter the Doona Car Seat & Stroller Travel System 2-in-1 Combo, a unique “car seat mobility solution” that fills a niche for certain types of parents (not everyone!). We asked a group of our readers to contribute to this Doona car seat review, so you’re getting more than the perspective of one single person. Let’s go…

A Unique Car Seat to a Stroller Combo

Picture this: You’ve just managed to get your little bundle of joy comfortably settled in their infant car seat after them passionately arguing against it. Now, you’ve reached your destination, and it’s time to get them out… but wait, you don’t have to wake them up! The Doona seamlessly transitions from an infant car seat into a stroller; it’s basically the Transformer of the baby gear world.

That’s Right… It’s a Car Seat with Legs 

This innovative product seamlessly transforms from a car seat to a stroller in seconds, making it a perfect solution for on-the-go parents who need to transition quickly without sacrificing safety or ease of use. 

Its compact design means it fits easily into the trunk of a car or the corner of a room, saving precious space in car or home. The practicality of this design is a win for city dwellers. Plus, the stable install without a base means you can jump from sidewalk to Uber without breaking a sweat. 

Keep reading for our in-depth, non-bias Doona car seat review.

How Much Does the Doona Cost?

Before we get too far ahead of ourselves, you need to know that the Doona car seat stroller is one of the priciest infant seats on the market; it runs from $550 to $650, which is undoubtedly at the very high end compared to regular (ahem, civilian) infant car seats.  

But remember, the initial investment in a Doona is higher because its dual functionality, especially if you aren’t shelling out money for a separate stroller.

Who Should Use The Doona Car Seat and Stroller

The Doona is designed for those who put a premium on convenience, utility, and, admittedly, those who don’t mind the extra weight.

Keep in mind, the Doona will only be used for about 12-15 months, depending on how quickly your child outgrows it by height (infant car seats are almost always outgrown by height rather than by weight).

Doona fits the bill for the following niches:

• Urban parents: Those living in cities who appreciate the Doona’s compact size and maneuverability for navigating busy sidewalks and public transportation where a full-size stroller (or 2 separate pieces) is too much to schlep.
  
• Parents with Older Kids: Far and away, the biggest fans of the Doona are parents with older kids. Doona is perfect for those quick dropoffs and pickups when you just need to run in and out, like to the preschool or school door, without having to carry along and assemble a separate stroller. 
  
• Parents who run a lot of errands in the car, with baby in tow: Are you the type of person who does a lot of errand-running in-person? Some people prefer to shop in person. One of our reviewers loves the Doona because her other child has medical needs, and they were in and out for medical appointments several times per week.
  
• Travel enthusiasts: Families who travel often and need a quick, easy solution for moving between car, airport, and exploring destinations. Doona installs easily on a plane. It’s the ideal solution for navigating the airport, airplane and ground transportation situation, especially if you have older kids to chase around.
  
• Those with limited living space: People with smaller living spaces or minimal storage who value the Doona’s dual functionality, saving the need for separate car seat and stroller storage. If you are living in a studio in NYC or Tokyo, nobody has room for a separate stroller.
  
• Active, on-the-go families: Those with a fast-paced lifestyle who benefit from the convenience of transitioning from car seat to stroller without waking a sleeping baby. Are you the type of parent who can’t sit still and is always out and about (by car)? You know who you are
  
• First-time parents: New moms and dads looking for a simple, straightforward, and safe mobility solution for their newborn who don’t want to worry about car seat/stroller compatibility or those who don’t want to mess with assembling a stroller and car seat every time. You’re already sleep-deprived, let’s not make the situation worse by added mechanical complexity to your life. For this reason, we also recommend it for…
  
• Grandparents: Looking for a no-brainer car seat/stroller solution for your grandkid? Provided you have smooth surfaces to stroll on and understand the added weight of the car seat, this is a perfect solution for grandparents.
  
• Minimalists: Families who prefer to own fewer, more versatile items that serve multiple purposes and contribute to a clutter-free lifestyle.

Doona Reviewers Say…

“The Doona has saved me with preschool pick up and drop off this year, total game changer and is perfect for allll the appointments especially as it fits into exam rooms nicely. It has fit in nicely but doesn’t replace our UppaBaby Vista. Different uses and we were lucky enough to get our Doona used to help with the steep price tag!” – reader C. Beck

“It is definitely heavier than the Chicco Keyfit 30, but totally worth not having to worry about a stroller when getting three in and out of the car.” – reader C. Yegian

“Living in a big city (Los Angeles), it was the perfect car seat stroller for our needs – we could take an Uber/travel without worrying about a car seat, super compact for moving around and riding on the subway/busses, and just so convenient to be able to transfer a sleeping baby in any situation. We are definitely using it for our second baby as well!” – reader L. Straw

The Doona Infant Car Seat and Stroller Is Especially Great For Those Who Don’t Have A Car

With the Doona, you seamlessly transition from a secure car seat to a nimble stroller in seconds, a feature that seems tailor-made for the car-free parent. It eliminates the need for cumbersome gear ill-suited to the urban lifestyle, where space and convenience are paramount. Whether you’re hailing a cab for a playdate or navigating the city’s bus or subway, the Doona’s compact design makes it easy.

Conveniently, the Doona installs best without the base, and uses a European belt path with color-coded markings to guide you through the baseless installation, so it’s easy to install on the fly (vs. the Evenflo Shyft, for example).

Pros and Cons

Why We Love the Doona Infant Car Seat

To recap, there are so many reasons we recommend the Doona Car Seat Stroller Combo.

• Seamless Transition: The built-in stroller situation is truly unique – and the biggest selling point of this stroller.
• Urban-Friendly Design: Its compact size is ideal for navigating narrow aisles and bustling sidewalks, 
• No-Base Installation: Perfect for families who are always on the move, the Doona’s flexibility accommodates the “it’s complicated” relationship many of us have with car ownership.
• Ease of Travel: For those of us who’ve juggled a baby in one arm and a stroller in another, the Doona feels like a deep breath of relief. Whether you’re navigating through airport security or hopping on the subway, the Doona handles it all with grace, empowering parents to explore the world with their little ones confidently.
• Safety Features: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the Doona car seat and stroller a 5-star rating in October 2016 for its overall ease of use. The Doona also received a 5-star rating in frontal collision tests, which are the most common type of car accident. Note that Doona is not sold in Canada or Australia because it was designed to meet US safety standards.
• Saves Precious Space: Living in the city means making the most out of every square inch, and the Doona is a champion at conserving space. Its dual functionality eradicates the need for both a bulky car seat and stroller combo, though it may not be the only stroller you own.
• Stress-Free Maintenance: The Doona is incredibly easy to keep clean, which parents can appreciate. The covers are removable and washable, making those inevitable spills and messes a non-issue. Plus, the high-quality materials ensure it stands up to the test of time and use, staying fresh and functional through all of life’s little adventures.

However, every hero has its hurdles:

Cons for the Doona Car Seat Stroller

• Weight: Number one complaint. You may find that you become frustrated with it as your baby gets heavier. Trying to lift a car seat (and stroller) that weighs about 17 lbs., plus the weight of your baby, in and out of a vehicle isn’t for the faint of heart – or for a mom who is recovering from a Cesarean birth!
• Limited Storage: The Doona encourages you to adopt a minimalist approach to packing, challenging you to distinguish between must-haves and nice-to-haves. However, you can purchase additional storage options.
• Price: Definitely one of the priciest infant car seats on the market.
• Handle Height: The handle height is on the shorter side, making if challenging for taller parents (seriously, no one over 6’0″ should be using this stroller. For tall folks, keep reading below re: Evenflo Shyft)
• Wheels’ Off-Road Capability: While it thrives in urban environments, the Doona prefers to stick to smoother paths. This is definitely not the stroller for unpaved terrain.
• Crash Test Results: The reviews are mixed, here. While Consumer Reports rates it highly for safety, other third parties disagree (specifically compared to other infant car seats): “While considered safe by federal standards, it does not potentially offer an additional margin of protection like higher-scoring seats might.”
• Wide base: Wider base does not fit well in smaller cars.

Doona Car Seat Stroller vs. The World

I know a lot of you are wondering if the Doona is worth the high price tag?

Let me start by saying it is highly unlikely that Doona will be the only stroller you need, especially for first-time parents. We find that second-time (and more) parents usually already own another stroller, but first-timers will most likely want a beefier/more full-featured stroller for longer stroller trips – one that can handle rougher terrain, has more storage etc. 

Let’s compare it to the alternatives:

Doona vs. Evenflo Shyft DualRide

The new(ish) Evenflo Shyft DualRide ($499) made it’s debut last year (2023). Let’s compare the Doona vs. the newer Evenflo product.

The Doona offers a slightly better build quality, which might be expected, as Evenflo is generally considered an economy brand. But don’t discount the Evenflo…

In essence, the Evenflo Shyft offers a similar product at a similar price, but with the niceties you don’t get with the Doona (Evenflo definitely going for the value play…). Specifically, the Evenflo Shyft offers a taller handlebar and a no rethread harness.

In the newborn department, both seats claim to fit preemies down to 3 lbs (Evenflo) and 4lbs (Doona).

The Evenflo Shyft DualRide also excels with additional features for convenience, such as detachable carriers, a storage bag, a belt-tensioning device and Bluetooth alerts, which are a part of the mid and upper-level packages. The base on the Evenflo also has an anti-rebound bar, while the Doona does not.

However, the DualRide has some drawbacks, particularly in smaller vehicles where it requires extra space during installation, which might not be ideal (neither of them are, which is ironic). Also, the process of installing the DualRide without its base involves cumbersome reattachment of wheels, a step that is not required with the Doona (if you install the seat with the wheels attached, the two front wheels must be removed). Note also that the Evenflo weighs about 3 lbs more than the Doona (with the wheels on). Doona is already a very heavy infant seat, so adding 3 lbs is getting into the ridiculous territory, weight-wise.

Ultimately, it comes down to which one best suits your needs, especially since they are around the same price.

At the end of the day, Doona is lighter weight (ha) car seat stroller solution and has a slightly better build quality, but has very a very short handlebar and requires a manual rethreading to adjust the strap height. The Evenflo comes with more accessories, has taller handlebar, an anti-rebound bar, but is heavier and requires removal of the front wheels to get it into the car. They are both designed for the in-and-out of the car lifestyle – or very urban lifestyle.

Decisions!

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A lot of parents also ask…

What about the Doona Travel Stroller vs City Mini?

When choosing between the two, Doona is a simpler solution, seeing that it’s one piece, and City Mini, parents often find themselves weighing the benefits of convenience against those of long-term usage.

Both strollers cater to the urban family, but in different ways. We are really comparing apples and oranges, here, because they are very different product types.

For those weighing the two, the Doona, is a unique, all-in-one solution that simplifies the transition. Using the City Mini, on the other hand, requires you to carry a separate stroller, but offers more storage, a more comfortable ride and more creature comforts, like a larger sunshade. It really depends on whether you want one simple piece or gear – or two.

So you’ve owned a larger, full-featured stroller in the past, so you are wondering  – 

What about the Doona vs UPPAbaby Vista?

I’m not really sure why people are asking this. When comparing the Doona with the UPPAbaby Vista, we’re comparing two vastly different strollers; it’s almost like comparing a car and a golf cart.  

The UPPABaby Vista is a large, full featured stroller that even fits 2 children. The Doona is the exact opposite; a minimalist, 2-in-1 piece of gear meant for ultimate efficiency. They are truly on opposite sides of the spectrum.

Getting More Out of Your Doona With Snap-On Storage and Doona Accessories

Enhancing your Doona experience can be a game changer, especially when you’re navigating the bustling city streets or preparing for a long day out. We highly recommend the add-ons, especially the storage. With the right add-ons, your Doona can transform from a simple car seat-stroller into a super-efficient travel system.

Here are some add-ons to consider:

• Doona Infant Insert & Head Support: Crafted from bamboo fabric, these ensure your baby is snug, supported, and comfortable from those first rides. The breathable material is perfect for keeping baby cool and comfy.
• Doona Snap-on Storage: Increase your storage capacity without compromising the Doona’s slim profile. It’s ideal for extra diapers, wipes, and those just-in-case outfit changes, making it perfect for longer outings.
• Doona Rain Cover: The Doona rain cover is specifically designed to fit snugly over your Doona, keeping your little one dry and cozy, whatever the weather.
• Doona Sunshade Extension: Protect your baby’s delicate skin with this additional layer of UV protection, especially during those sunny day strolls or when you’re out and about in the summer months.
• Doona Wheel Covers: Handy for when you transition from outdoor strolling to indoor use, these covers keep your floors clean by covering the wheels of your Doona.
• Doona Travel Bag: For the family that loves to travel, this bag keeps your Doona safe and secure on flights, and makes carrying it through the airport a breeze.
• Doona Essentials Bag: Perfectly designed to maintain your Doona’s stability and easy maneuverability, this bag attaches to the front of your Doona, providing easy access to all your essentials and extra storage.. of course!
• Doona Cup Holder: Because let’s be real, parents need their coffee (or tea or smoothie) on-the-go. This cup holder securely attaches to your Doona handlebar, providing easy access to your favorite beverage while strolling.

Each of these add-ons serves to enhance the Doona’s functionality, making life a little bit easier for the adventurous, on-the-go family.

So, is this car seat and stroller worth it? Final Thoughts on the Doona Travel System Car Seat and Stroller Review 

Doona is a great solution for specific niches of people, especially those who have older kids (toddlers, preschoolers) – and need a quick in-and-out of the car solution. If your daily adventures are mostly on smooth sidewalks or navigating through subway stations craving for that tiny stroller footprint, Doona’s practically singing your name. Planning on jet-setting with baby in tow? It’s also a no-brainer win.

We don’t recommend Doona for parents over 6’0″ (ish) or for those who cannot bear the added weight of carrying around a heavy seat (between collapsing the legs and installing it into a car). We also don’t recommend it for those who want a lot of bells and whistles on their stroller, like ample storage. If you’re the type who likes to to pack the kitchen sink when heading out, maybe a separate stroller system would be your jam, offering that extra room for all your (and baby’s) essentials.

Where to Buy the Doona

Doona is available on Amazon, Nordstrom and Pottery Barn Kids.

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How To’s/FAQs

How To Use The Doona: Switching From Car Seat To Stroller

The magic of the Doona rear-facing infant Car Seat & Stroller combo lies in its elegantly designed mechanism that allows it to transform from a car seat into a stroller in just seconds — and it’s incredibly straightforward to use.

At the heart of its design, the lever is conveniently located at the back of the car seat. 

When it’s time to switch from car seat to stroller mode, simply press the button on the lever, and then pull it up. This action releases the wheels, which smoothly roll out and lock into place, creating a sturdy, ready-to-go stroller. 

To return to car seat mode, just push the stroller’s legs up until they click back under the seat, ready to be safely installed in the car. It’s this seamless transition that makes the Doona not just a piece of baby gear, but a supportive companion for parents navigating the challenges of city living with a little one in tow.

For those of you who want step by step instructions:

1. Locate the lever at the back of the car seat.
2. Press the button on the lever.
3. Pull the lever up to release the wheels.
4. Allow the wheels to smoothly roll out and lock into place, transforming it into a stroller.
5. To revert to car seat mode, push the stroller’s legs up until they click under the seat, ready for car installation.

How to Switch the Doona From Stroller To Car Seat

Switching the Doona from stroller to car seat mode is as graceful and straightforward as you’d hope, ensuring you can keep up with the pace of city life while your little one rests securely. Here’s a gentle step-by-step guide to help you effortlessly transition the Doona back to its car seat configuration:

1. Ensure the stroller is stationary: Before you begin, make sure the Doona is still to prevent any movement during the transition.
2. Press down on the red safety button: Located near the lever, this button ensures the transition process is intentional and safe.
3. Lift the lever found at the back of the Doona: By doing so, you initiate the folding of the wheels. This lever, designed with your convenience in mind, requires minimal effort.
4. Guide the wheels upwards: With a smooth motion, push the wheels up towards the base of the seat. They’ll glide effortlessly into place, locking securely as they prepare to take on their role as a car seat once again.
5. Check that everything is secure: Once the wheels are tucked away, double-check to ensure everything is locked in place. Your Doona is now ready to be installed in the car, offering another layer of warmth and security for your precious cargo.

Remember, these moments of transition aren’t just about changing the form of a piece of baby equipment; they’re opportunities to pause and appreciate the incredible journey you’re on with your little one. The Doona is more than just a travel system; it’s a partner in your adventures, designed to make each step (or roll!) as smooth and worry-free as possible.

How To Release the Doona From The Latch Base

Releasing the Doona from the Latch Base is a straightforward process that has been thoughtfully designed to ensure convenience and safety. Here’s a comforting step-by-step guide to help you through:

1. Position Yourself Comfortably: First, stand alongside the Doona. It’s important you feel stable and have a good view of the mechanism to proceed confidently.
2. Locate the Release Handle: You’ll find the release handle at the back of the Doona car seat, just above where it connects to the car seat base. This handle is designed for easy access.
3. Press the Release Handle: Gently but firmly press the release handle. This action disengages the car seat from the latch base.
4. Lift the Doona: With one hand on the release handle and the other supporting the Doona, lift it straight up out of the base. It should come away smoothly, without the need for excessive force.
5. Check Your Surroundings: Before moving away, make sure the path is clear. Safety first, always.

Remember, each step in the process of using your Doona, from installing it in your car to walking down the street, has been designed with your family’s safety and comfort in mind. Releasing the Doona from its base is just another example of how intuitive and user-friendly baby gear can make all the difference in your daily life, letting you focus on the joy and adventure of outings with your little one. If at any moment you feel unsure, take a breath and go through the steps again. You’ve got this, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

How to Safely Strap the Doona into a Car

Ensuring your Doona is securely strapped into the car is paramount for the safety and comfort of your little one during travel. Here’s a reassuring step-by-step guide to help you secure the Doona with confidence and attach the car seat into a car:

1. Position the Doona Correctly: Place the Doona car seat rear-facing in the back seat or rear of your car. This position is recommended for the highest level of safety for infants.
2. Align the Seat Belt: Thread the car’s seat belt through the designated guides on the Doona car seat. There are clear markings to show you exactly where the belt should go, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
3. Buckle Up: Fasten the car seat belt, ensuring there are no twists in the belt and it locks in place. Pull the shoulder part of the seat belt to tighten the lap section, creating a firm fit that doesn’t allow the Doona to move more than an inch side to side or front to back.
4. Check the Recline Angle: Make sure the Doona is reclined at the correct angle for your baby’s maximum safety and comfort. The Doona comes with an indicator to help you find the right angle.
5. Final Safety Check: Give the Doona a gentle shake to ensure it’s securely installed. The car seat should not move significantly. If it does, recheck the belt paths and tension, adjusting as necessary.
6. Comfort and Peace of Mind: Before setting off, make sure your baby is comfortable and securely fastened within the Doona itself. Adjust the harness so it’s snug against your baby’s body, with no more than one finger’s width of slack.

By following these careful steps, you can feel assured and at peace, knowing your baby is safely secured in the Doona car seat while you travel. It’s all about making those car journeys not just safer but also more enjoyable for you and your baby, allowing you to make the most of every day, whether you’re off on an exciting adventure or simply navigating the routine.

Remember, taking a moment to ensure everything is set up correctly can offer immeasurable peace of mind. You’re doing a great job, and we’re here to support you with every mile and smile along the way.

The post Doona Car Seat and Stroller Review appeared first on Lucie's List.

I heard my 16 year old son say as he walked down the entry hall.  

I was loading the dishwasher and the dryer buzzed. The usual clamoring that occurred in my head around the 5 o’clock hour continued. Practices, homework, piles of items that were requested to be put away days ago all lay in front of me.  

“Mommmm, I can’t go.”  

He said it again, and this time I heard an inflection in his voice that paused the internal noise.  

What was he talking about? His little brother’s baseball game. Are we supposed to be at dinner with his grandparents? 

I looked at him and shot back.  “Where? Where can’t you go, Hunter?”  

“I can’t go on Spring Break, Mom. I can’t go with you guys.”

A multitude of emotions flew through my being as I processed his words. 

In the past, we had always been able to arrange our trips around him and his commitments. His little brother and sister are 7 and 8 years younger than him, so they had a flexible or non-imperative schedule. But, now, as they’ve aged, their little lives have grown to be less pliable.

“What do you mean you can’t go?”  

I came across with anger as if he had some sort of control or choice over the statement. This was a family trip we had been planning for seven months. 

A big one. An expensive one. One where memories would be made, gosh darnit!

For this Spring Break, we had decided to go outside of our norm and show our kiddos the world of the mountainous terrain out west. Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, all things snow!  We were hoping for solid quality time together in a new and awesome place that we had never explored before: Colorado.  

I took a breath as I looked at his face and – in that moment – I saw a young man standing in front of me. My be-bopping, moppy haired boy was not just standing taller than me, but also leaping fast and furious into a new chapter of his life. One that I didn’t see myself being as much a part of as I thought I would be.  

I had heard about the teenage years and the cliche of only having 18 summers. Gosh, I would love to have 18 summers. But, guess what… you’re lucky if you get 18.

For some, it’s about 12. 12 summers. 12 Spring Breaks. Once he hit the teen years, we were met with commitments. Much more significant ones. And also, the voice inside my head told me that I had to follow through with supporting what I had always told him,”If you make a commitment, you have to see it through!!” 

Commitments aside, by the age of 12/13 or so, kids start having opinions about how they want to spend their time. Maybe you can make them go… but they won’t be happy about it.

How had I just been coasting along and not seen this coming?  

Because: life.  

Because each morning, I wake up and fall forward to wade through the insurmountable day-to-day obligations: take them here, pick them up, wash uniforms, someone has a field trip, the dog ate a shin guard and soccer is tonight, one kid needs an orange shirt on Thursday but hates orange and doesn’t have one, three kids need a parent at three places and last time I checked there are only two of us, and what, they want to eat, too?  

My head crashes into the pillow and then…rinse, wash, repeat. 

That’s how I didn’t see it coming. 

Sixteen years of “rinse, wash, repeat” came to a screeching halt as I realized I couldn’t get one single day back. 

Not one day.

Not one week.

Not a spring break or a Christmas, a summer or a little league game.  

And now, not an opportunity to take a trip.

That stupid Facebook post that I’ve seen a million times haunted my mind… the days go slow but the years go fast. It’s that simple. It’s really that simple. 

I looked into his eyes and I realized that this was as hard on him as it would be on the other four of us. Maybe even harder. I said I was sorry, but we both knew that there weren’t words at the moment, or maybe ever, that would help.  

He explained that there was a tournament during that week that he felt he couldn’t miss. It wasn’t mandatory or because his coach made him feel he had to be there. It was because he knew it was the right decision.  

I gave him a hug and said, “We’ll figure it out,” knowing good and well, there was no figuring it out.  

That night, I laid there thinking of all the years that passed that we had reasons to delay or put off trips: finances (trips are expensive!), timing with work and really, Mom Life.

As I continued to lie there, I couldn’t help but think of my littles and what I wanted to (quickly) change about the years that I have left with them.  

Take the trip. Just take the trip. 

I thought of the missed opportunities and the regrets. I’m not one to dwell on the should-haves and could-haves because I truly believe if we are raising kind, happy kids, it’s okay to miss a lot of things.  

But this one really bothered me.   

If only we would have paused and realized the utter importance of the gift of travel as a family.  

While I will never forget leaving a piece of my heart at home while the plane took off to Colorado, it ended up being an important lesson as well as a trip that has quite possibly changed the trajectory of my daughter’s life. This meek and anxious 9-year-old, who had not a lick of self-confidence, found herself skiing down a mountain like she’d been raised on one.  

“Hi Mom!!!”  She waved and smiled so brightly a day after completing beginner’s ski school. “I’m moving to Colorado when I grow up and I’m going to be a ski instructor!” 

With that, off she went and hopped onto a ski lift after apparently checking any fear back at the gate.  

Was this the child I’ve known and loved for 9 years? Did that actually just happen? In one week, my daughter transformed. All because of the trip. 

Days and then weeks (eventually months) after our ski trip, it became more and more apparent to me as to what a profound impact travel can have on children, families, spouses and friends. 

Maybe it’s a quick getaway or maybe it’s that once-in-a-lifetime family bucket list destination.  Or maybe it’s a long weekend to reconnect with your spouse. No matter what it is, just take the trip.

Vacation, trips, whatever you want to call them, are experiences. They are memories that will be taken with each of us no matter where life goes. They can be impactful, even life-changing. 

As I reflect on the last sixteen years of motherhood, I have a few profound takeaways. 

It’s not what our children can hold that they will remember, it is what they felt. 

Memories and experiences from trips aren’t left in a toy box or on a shelf. They aren’t under a bed collecting dust or eventually dumped in a donation bag. They aren’t phased out as our children enter a new age and stage of maturity. These memories get quietly stored in a section of their hearts and minds that eloquently and gracefully make their presence known throughout their lives, that help shape who they are and who they’ll become.  

So where are you going this year? 

—————–

Jen Grove is a travel advisor for Living with the Magic Family Vacations ~ Cruises, Beaches and All-Inclusives

Email her or check her out on Facebook to start planning your family’s dream vacation.

The post Just Take the Trip appeared first on Lucie's List.

As I watched my brother wheel her out to my car, temporarily parked in the airport arrivals pickup line, I instantly felt shocked. 

This wasn’t the mother who’d gone off to Arizona a mere seven months ago. She was frail; her clothes hung off her the way my grown-up clothes cascade off my eight-year-old. Her hair, which she’d long colored a deep shade of red and had styled the same way since I was small, was a ratty, gray mess. Her nails, which she’d always kept perfectly rounded and manicured, were unpolished and ragged.

Even though I knew she’d declined, seeing her this way was jarring. And heartbreaking. 

If she had her wits about her, I knew she’d be mortified.

I first noticed the spottiness of her memory back in 2019 when she was diagnosed with a blood cancer disease called Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS). She’d had labs drawn and they’d come back wonky – her white blood cell count was too low – and we needed to make an appointment with a hematologist. 

During that time, I’d been hyper-focused on all the responsibilities and joys that come along with raising 3 small children (twins and a singleton). Though she lived alone and I often worried about that – my dad died when I was just 27 – I assumed my mom had everything regarding her health and medical care under control. But in 2019 when I went into her medical chart to reach out to her primary care physician for a referral, I couldn’t find one. When I asked her who she saw, she couldn’t remember; then she named a doctor I knew she hadn’t seen since I was a child. 

I decided to take control, the same way I do with my own children’s care. 

It was that day I became a member of the Sandwich Generation.

I remember vividly the day I locked myself into one of the private rooms at my coworking space and made phone calls to all the doctors my mother had seen over the last 5 years trying to determine which one was her primary. I utilized the wall-hanging whiteboard to draw a diagram – my mom in the middle with several outward spokes pointing to every doctor and medical facility she’d visited, similar to what you might see on a detective show.

It took me all day to sort it out. I promised her that either I or one of my four older siblings would accompany her to every doctor’s appointment going forward. This was to offer her support, yes, but also because I was beginning to realize she needed our ears and minds – she needed us to hear and record the important information each doctor was going to share. 

That evening, I was emotionally exhausted. I sat with my husband on our bed, and the tears began rolling until I was blinded by them. 

I was completely overwhelmed. 

Caregiving for my elderly mother and young children felt completely untenable.

How was I going to manage this – my mother’s impending needs and care – as well as my own children’s? My kids, then 7, 4, and 4, needed their mom. They were my top priority, but now… now my mom needed me too. 

Desperately. 

And I felt physically sick. How was I going to do this? 

“One foot in front of the other,” offered my husband as he held me close. “That’s all you can do. And you’re not alone in this. I’m here to support you and our family. Always. We can do this.” 

I’d always been grateful for him, but in that moment, my gratitude was tenfold. We always joked that together we were The Force, but on that night, I knew it was true. 

The very next week, my brother and I brought my mom to her first appointment with her new oncologist. 

“This type of blood cancer turns into acute myeloid leukemia,” said Dr. Warlick. “If we do nothing, we’re probably looking at three years of life left. Maybe less.” 

Our hearts sank. Three years? How was that even possible? She was so young – and I wasn’t ready to be parentless.

“And if we do something?” I asked. 

“Well, we can do an aggressive type of chemo,” she went on. “Your mom will have to come in a couple of times a week for her treatment, and we’ll follow her blood work closely to see if there are any changes. If she were younger and healthy, we’d look at a bone marrow transplant, but considering her age and the fact she’s been a lifelong smoker, she’s just not a candidate for that.” 

We chose to do the chemo and, after several months, she miraculously went into remission. Even her oncologist was surprised. “I don’t know how long this will last,” she said, “This type of cancer is terminal. It will come back. But until then, go enjoy life.”

But something happened while my siblings and I were taking my mom to all her labs and doctor’s appointments; we noticed something equally as life-threatening and terrifying as her MDS. She was often forgetful and confused. And not just a little bit, but very much so. 

Since my dad passed away in 2007, she’d been more reclusive than she ever was; she was also becoming exceptionally paranoid and wary of those around her. She spent so much time alone. 

I began to notice that she’d make up stories, which, to this day, I’m not sure if she knew were false or if she thought they were truly reality. But this was different. These new stories she was telling were far more outlandish and bizarre.

We also began to notice how she’d ask the same questions multiple times within a short conversation. She started calling me in the evenings confused, unsure what medications she was supposed to take and when, and what her plans were for the following day. And I was shocked by the mess I’d see when I’d visit her at home because she had always been a consummate neat freak.

Being disorganized, messy, and – gasp! – dirty was simply NOT in her DNA. I think perhaps this tipped me off more than anything. Yet I didn’t know how to bring it up to her. I knew if I accused her of being forgetful, she’d become defensive. But then, one day, the opportunity arose. 

We were in my car on our way home from one of her medical appointments when she said, “Marissa, I’m noticing that my mind isn’t working as well as it used to. I asked someone – a doctor friend of mine – at the golf club if I should be worried, and he said it’s normal, that all old people forget things now and then.” 

But I took this opportunity to discuss the subject without her becoming offended or angry at me for doing so. 

“Mom, it’s interesting you say that. Actually – I’ve been noticing it a little bit too. Hey – would you mind if I made an appointment for you with a ‘memory doctor’? Someone who can help us determine if this is normal aging, or maybe if it’s something more?” 

It was out of character for her, but since her cancer diagnosis, she’d been far more amenable to these types of requests from me. 

“Okay,” she agreed. “That sounds like a good idea.” 

When we first met her memory doctor, who was a geriatrician specializing in Alzheimer’s/Dementia, I was exceptionally nervous. I didn’t want to hear the news that I knew deep in my gut was true. She gave my mom a series of cognitive tests – one that was verbal, one in which she had to draw pictures and complete a written exam – followed by drawing blood for pertinent labs (the MRI came a few weeks later). 

At the end of the appointment, Dr. Smith explained to us as gently as she could that she thought my mom was in the early stages of Dementia. 

This was a gut punch. Even though I’d already known it was true – it didn’t lessen the blow of those words. Your mom is in the early stages of Dementia.

I kept a brave face and held my voice steady. I knew I needed to be strong for my mom. But on that drive home, I was a mess. Rambling on and on about things that didn’t matter, just trying to avoid the topic at hand – the one we both felt like the weight of 12 boulders. 

Dementia. 

I tried to hold it together that evening at home. I didn’t want to burden my children with my pain and panic – or let on how scared I was that perhaps one day this terrifying fate would befall me. To cope, I tried my best to focus my energy on them – playing games, drawing, reading books – but in the moments of silence and stillness, the tears pricked my eyes. 

Over the next several weeks, we completed the necessary tasks one must do when a parent or family member is diagnosed with dementia. We filled out the important paperwork – POA (power of attorney), advanced directives, and so on – and tried our best to plan for an unpredictable future. For now, she was OK living alone, driving, and enjoying her day-to-day activities, but I knew it was only a matter of time. 

I’m a type-A planner who likes to be in control, but there was no planning for or controlling this. And without the ability to plan and check things off a to-do list, my anxiety spiraled. 

As the months went on, my mom’s cancer remained in remission… but, as it does, her dementia worsened. We faced the hard truth – the truth that she didn’t want to accept. Driving was now unsafe – she’d been getting lost far more often – and spending the days on her own was equally as hazardous. We realized she needed a higher level of care.

My siblings and I could no longer be her sole caregivers.

She accepted this, which surprised me, but she refused to let her helper move in with her because she so deeply valued her privacy and space. We went along with this, even though I knew it was the wrong choice. But she was becoming unsteady on her feet and the clutter in her home was growing out of control and posed a fall hazard for her. Not to mention, a pack-a-day smoker, I constantly feared she’d burn the house down. 

My endless worry impacted my parenting. My brain was constantly churning with fears, thoughts, and tasks about my mom and my kids. I kept an ongoing to-do list with three columns: Kids, Mom, and Work. I always felt like I was dropping the ball somewhere: not able to make it to someone’s play at school; not able to take my mom to an important appointment; not able to complete a deadline for work; no energy left to connect with my husband, and so on, and so forth. I was breaking; pouring everything, all the time, from an empty cup. 

The empty cup well known to those in the sandwich generation.

Last April, while my mom was in Arizona for the winter, everything changed in an instant. 

It was an evening after her caregiver had left for the day. She was outside, likely having a cigarette, when she walked down toward the end of her driveway. She tripped on the driveway’s lip, fell hard to the ground… and broke her hip. 

Miraculously, a neighbor spotted her and ran to her side. The neighbor grabbed her cell phone, found my brother’s contact information, and called him to tell him what had happened. He called her caregiver, who called 911 when he arrived. At the hospital, she was admitted and prepped for surgery. 

I’ve often heard that a hip break for the elderly can be the kiss of death. My mom herself used to tell me this when I was small as she stressed the importance of drinking milk to strengthen my bones, but I didn’t realize just how severely she would decline after this incident. 

Between her immobility, the change to her environment and routine, the surgery, new medications, and the inability to smoke, my mom’s dementia increased tenfold. It was like she aged 10 years within one week. 

From the hospital, she was moved into a rehab facility to continue physical therapy and strengthen her hip – this caused her to decline even further. It was another change; another shift in routine, another unfamiliar location. 

My siblings and I knew we had to make a decision quickly. She was no longer safe to live alone with only daytime help. Either we were going to hire her 24/7 care, which is hard to find and quite expensive, or we had to move her into a memory care facility. 

With little time to figure it out, we frantically began researching and touring facilities. It was scary, stressful, and sad… but ultimately, memory care was the right thing for her. 

Yet, I could not shake the heavy guilt I felt at doing this. “She would hate this,” I kept saying to my family. “I know she would rather die than move into one of these facilities.” 

We all agreed – but honestly – we didn’t know what else to do. 

Those days were some of the hardest of my life. I was managing her care from afar, speaking to her physical therapists, physicians, and caregivers multiple times a day, touring assisted living homes, packing up her necessary items for her impending move, filling out all the paperwork required to move her into a facility, all while fielding angry calls from her about strangers holding her against her will and stealing her cigarettes. All of this while trying to parent my kids and keep myself from physically, mentally, and emotionally drowning. 

On one particularly rough May morning, I’d gotten to my daughter’s school just in time for her grade’s orchestra performance. I was so grateful for the respite, to sit there in the comfort of the plush auditorium chair next to friends, and do nothing other than revel in the sounds of these talented 4th grade performers. 

When it was over, after I’d congratulated my sweetheart and hugged her and my friends goodbye, I hopped on a Zoom call with my siblings from the car. We were discussing the details of my mom’s move – who would do what and when. We were butting up against a deadline; she was returning from Arizona in a few days, and we had to have everything ready to go. 

The plan was to have her room at the memory care facility completely ready and to move her in straight from picking her up at the airport. We weren’t going to tell her it was a memory care, but rather a rehab facility she’d live at until her hip improved. I hated every part of this entire situation – lying to her, moving her into memory care, everything. I felt like I was betraying her on the deepest level, and it completely broke my heart. 

All of a sudden, likely between the constant stress, lack of sleep, and total overwhelm, the emotional and physical magnitude of what we were discussing became too much to bear. I began crying hysterically. I could not stop. My patient siblings waited for me to calm down and breathe. Unlike me, their kids were older – they were empty nesters – and didn’t have the pressures of also caring for three little people at home. 

In addition, I was my mom’s only biological child – her “flesh and blood” as she often called me. She was their stepmom. Which, by the way, didn’t mean she loved them any differently or less. She raised them like they were her own, and they all cared for each other deeply. I just, I don’t know, felt this immense pain and guilt that I – not them, but I – was letting her down… letting my dad down, too.  

It was my second eldest brother and his wife who’d agreed to fly down to Arizona and bring her home. This was no easy feat – one I’ll be indebted to them for doing for the rest of my life. 

As I watched my brother, beads of sweat dripping down his forehead after the long, arduous day of traveling with someone who cannot physically travel or cognitively remember where she is or where she is going at any given moment, hoist her into the front seat when I picked them up at the airport, I realized how far gone she was. 

In that instant, my heart shattered into a million fragments. 

She was no longer the same mother who raised me. She was small, disheveled, confused, and broken. I realized our roles had reversed. I was the caregiver now, and she was one in need of tenderness and protection. I wasn’t sure how, but I was going to have to figure out how to manage this sandwich – caring for my children, while also caring for her. Four needy people. I wasn’t quite sure yet where care of myself, my marriage, or any of the other facets of my life, would fit in, but I knew it all had to be part of this hefty multilayered sandwich. 

And as I drove her to her new home, the memory care facility, I played her a Spotify mix I’d created for her when she was first diagnosed with dementia. It was a myriad of her favorite songs, stemming from her childhood to the present – from the Mills Brothers and Andrews Sisters to Billy Joel’s and Rihanna’s greatest hits. She’d always loved music, and I’d read that along with scents, music can help patients with dementia feel calm and spark memories. 

I saw her clapping her hand against her lap to the beat. She had a soft smile on her face as she bopped her head gently back and forth. I had a quick flashback to sitting in the passenger seat while she drove, windows down, the two of us belting out the lyrics to whatever our favorite song at that moment happened to be. 

She may not have been the same mother, but I took solace in knowing that some things would never change.

……….  

Fast forward a bit, last January we moved my mom out of that facility, about 8 months after moving her in. It simply wasn’t the right fit, and she wasn’t being cared for in the way we’d hooped. We searched for a new place and found a lovely home with fewer residents and more of a community feel. The transition went much smoother than I thought it would, and it’s clear we made the right decision.

Though her dementia is worsening, she is thriving. She’s socializing much more, enjoys the kind staff, is eating well, and generally seems happy. It’s the best-case scenario in an otherwise difficult situation. 

As for me, I’m doing my best to take it day by day, and learning how to better take care of myself, my family, and my mom while not constantly burning the candle at both ends. I don’t have this completely figured out – it’s a definite work-in-progress – but for others also wedged in the middle of this impossible generational sandwich, here’s what is helping me… perhaps it can help you too.

• Release the guilt. You’re doing the very best you can. Know that. When it comes to dementia, my mother doesn’t remember things from one moment to the next. So the only person who feels awful when I can’t visit as often as I want to is me. She’s just happy when I show up, for however long I’m able to be there. I was killing myself trying to get there several times a week and each weekend, but with young kids, my work, my marriage, and my own needs, it became emotionally and physically overwhelming.
  
• Prioritize. Yes, You can do many things, but you cannot do everything, and certainly not all at the same time. I decided that my kids and family had to come first. So on any given day, if both needed me, I made the choice to attend to my kids first, and then my mom. While this isn’t always possible, it’s what I strive for.
  
• Ask for help. During the tougher periods of moving my mom back home and into her memory care facility, and again moving her into her second memory care facility, I had to ask for help. My husband stepped up and helped a ton, and we had to enlist our babysitter too. If you have someone you can lean on during those tough moments – a neighbor, friend, partner, caregiver, family member – do it.
  
• Reserve the right to change your mind. If the type of care you initially choose for your loved one isn’t working — whether it’s living with you, in a memory care facility, a nursing home or an assisted living community, etc. — just know you can change course when you see fit. When we realized the place we’d moved my mom into wasn’t right for her, my siblings and I decided to research more places and find a better fit. Though the idea of moving her again seemed completely overwhelming, it went far better than we expected, and the outcome was positive. She’s much happier in her new home, and we are too.
  
• Self-care. It felt impossible to squeeze in time for myself, and often still does, but the things that helped me the most were going to therapy, journaling, being physically active each day, attempting to eat as healthy as possible (not an easy feat for me!), and sneaking in time with friends.

For those of you in a similar boat, you’re not alone. It isn’t easy. It’s stressful, emotional, guilt-inducing, and so much more. But please give yourself as much grace, love, and compassion as possible. 

I’m sending all my hugs and love to you as we navigate life in the sandwich generation. While it’s been a difficult road, I’m also incredibly grateful that I can be here for her in her time of need, just like she’s always been for me.  

Marissa Bader is now a writer and author of children’s books, including The Only Me, Stella’s Brave Voice and Petunia the Perfectionist, which debuts in August 2024. Connect with her on Instagram.

Stella’s Brave Voice: Twin sisters, Stella and Paige are different in a lot of ways – especially when it comes to how much they like to talk. Stella’s always been okay with being the quiet one . . . until now. Suddenly, Stella has something to say. But can she find a way to make her own voice heard over Paige’s? And will learning to use her own brave voice hurt Paige’s feelings—and their special relationship?

The post The Sandwich Generation appeared first on Lucie's List.

The decade of my 30s rocked my core. 

Literally.

I distinctly remember at three months postpartum, the “baby weight” — the “mommy tummy,” or as I called it, “the heroic badge of honor” — lurked under my mom-uniform of a loose tank top and gym shorts.

With “two under two,” and an absence of physical and mental strength, I could not squeeze cardio into my daily life. Instead, I changed my diet and added an extra street or two on my morning stroller walk to see if that combination would help.

It didn’t. 

About six months postpartum, I noticed the aches in my lower back, constipation, and the occasional urine leak from a small hiccup or cough remained. I brushed all these symptoms away because my body had just been to hell and back. I mainly blamed it on the two cesareans that sliced through my abdominals. 

As time went on, the subtle lingering physical pain began to overshadow the joys of motherhood. I requested a gynecologist exam, convinced something was wrong from the cesareans. 

“Four fingers. That’s a 4 cm abdominal gap,” the gynecologist said with her hands on my abdomen skin as I laid on the bed in the stuffy examination room. 

I was diagnosed with Diastasis Recti.

Unsure if that was a compliment or not, my awkward but always polite self said, “thank you.” 

“Now, for the real concerning news,” the gynecologist then said. “I can feel an umbilical hernia tear. Let’s get you scheduled with a gastroenterologist,” she replied.

Disappointed and confused, I got to research. I learned the official medical terminology of the “mommy pooch” is diastasis recti. “Diastasis” means separation and “recti” refers to the “rectus abdominis” ab muscles. This condition occurs when pregnancy puts so much pressure on the belly that the abdominal muscles separate and fail to close back together naturally, resulting in bloating and core weakness, despite cardio and proper diet. 

Besides the cosmetics concern, diastasis is the undiagnosed culprit for a variety of complications that impact women post-pregnancy such as constipation, urinary incontinence, prolapse, and lower back pain. It also can be the cause of pelvic pain, including pain during sex.

Diastasis occurs in almost half of all women after childbirth. For many moms, ab separation resolves itself within the first few months postpartum. However, 33% of women (and 39% of women over 35) continue to experience diastasis recti even at 12 months postpartum, according to the National Institute of Health (2021). 

If diastasis is left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications like chronic lower back pain with reduced mobility, pelvic floor dysfunction, and umbilical hernia. 

Umbilical hernia is considered a severe complication of Diastasis Recti.

Umbilical hernia is a protrusion of abdominal tissue through a weak spot near the diastasis. What used to be an innie is now very much an outtie. This can lead to more serious complications, like bowel obstruction. It’s actually quite common in newborns as well.

Abdominoplasty and Diastasis Recti Surgery

During the GI pre-op appointment for a hernia repair surgery, I learned I needed an abdominoplasty (infamously called the “tummy tuck”) before my insurance would approve the hernia repair surgery. Without it, my muscles that detached from the abdominal wall would continue to place pressure on the connective tissue tears where the hernia is. Therefore, applying mesh in a hernia repair would likely fail. 

The lingering curiosity of a third child creeped into my throat. “Would a future pregnancy damage the hernia repair?” With the answer of maybe, I left that pre-op appointment in a “surgery TBD status.” 

On my way out the door from the pre-op appointment, flustered, confused… I heard it. 

“For what it’s worth,” my GI surgeon called out, “I heard this captivating segment on NPR this morning about curing the “Mummy Tummy.” 

With the thought of surgery looming in the distance, I was all ears. I tuned in to the NPR segment in reference, “Flattening The ‘Mummy Tummy’ With 1 Exercise, 10 Minutes A Day,” on the way home.

Turns out, that segment was everything.

It featured Leah Keller, CEO of Every Mother, who developed a daily exercise program tailored to address core and pelvic floor needs at any stage of life. She noted that some exercises (like crossover crunches) can exacerbate diastasis recti and cause complications such as hernia. She concluded the NPR interview sharing that by following her exercise app for just “ten minutes a day,” you could cure your diastasis in 12 weeks… at home with minimal effort and equipment.

Though a bit skeptical, I was totally intrigued.

Once home, I downloaded the app, took the Every Mother Quiz and dove right in. I selected my exercise path, entered in the required measurements, dusted off my dumbbells, ordered a resistance band and got to work that very night. See also: Best At-Home Workout Equipment

Here’s a synopsis of my journey:

Diastasis Recti Before And After Without Surgery

Weeks 1-2: I really appreciated the knowledge and instruction from Leah on how to complete these workouts safely. Exercises like crunches and many common yoga poses damage the core, so there is a learning curve in how to engage the deep transverse abdominus – a muscle I never even knew existed. It was like having my own physical therapist. See also: Pelvic Floor Therapy.

Learning how to heal my diastasis recti through exercise

I would put my children to bed and immediately head to the bedroom to complete the 8-10 breathing workouts. I must admit, I wasn’t sure if I was engaging the core correctly, but each morning, I would feel the soreness of a workout.

Week 3: here is where I experienced a turning point. After 21 days, the app requests a measurement check. I had lost inches from my waist, and it was then I learned my diastasis had already shrunk by 2 cm, and the soreness from the workouts decreased each morning.  

I could tell my core was stronger, I was more intentional on my breathing, and I also felt more balanced and energized throughout the day.

Weeks 4-5: at this point, I was hooked. I began to add the suggested workouts to the core breathing. I looked forward to the workout and loved how great I was feeling. I would even do two minutes of core compression breathing while in the shower, at a red light, while waiting in line. I knew, with full confidence, that the gap was closing. Additionally, I no longer experienced back pain, I had less incontinence, and no more pee drips from an unexpected sneeze!  

By day 62, I officially closed my diastasis recti. That’s less than 3 months.

Without a tummy tuck.  

Without investing hundreds of dollars and hours with a personal trainer and at a gym.

Without the concern that the detached abdominal muscles would further injure the hernia and cause a block of blood supply.

But then came the true test…

Another Pregnancy

Months later, I became pregnant with my third. I went into the Every Mother app and switched the workout path to “pregnancy,” which tweaked my routine with a goal to minimize injury. This adjusted plan prevented excessive strain against the linea alba, which is where strength comes for labor. I had a healthy pregnancy, less back pain, and an easier recovery; and I delivered my daughter in the heart of COVID, April 2020.

I will never forget my gynecologist checking, double-checking, and triple-checking the charts during my 8-week postpartum visit. She was baffled to discover I had closed my diastasis, and that it remained closed after a subsequent pregnancy.

Since my success story, my OBGYN practice has recommended Every Mother to all their patients no matter their current status of childbirth.

This program has become an integral part of my life. It was not just a temporary means to cure my diastasis and umbilical hernia; it’s a way of staying healthy, both physically and mentally. The exercises have taught me to be mindful of my body’s needs and have given me the strength to tackle any challenge that comes my way.

I’m so grateful for this program, it became my mission to share the common warning signs of this diagnosis to proactively treat and prevent complications. I’ve become an evangelist for this program and am thrilled to share it with anyone in the same boat. I make a small commission when you purchase the program, but I stand by it 100%. Plans start at $9.95 per month. No need for a personal trainer!

You can find Krissy on Mother Compass, where she shows SAHMs and teachers how to earn passive income online. 

The post Diastasis Recti Before And After appeared first on Lucie's List.

Favorite Montessori Shelves

Are you looking for some top-notch Montessori bookshelf options? We’ve done all the legwork to find you the absolute best models out there.

Having a dedicated Montessori shelf is a total game-changer, even if you already have shelves for your little one’s toys. It helps them understand the distinction between a playtime Montessori toy shelf and reading, which is all about gaining knowledge. Two shelves for two different purposes – genius!

Montessori furniture is the best when it comes to pint-sized furnishings. They’re all about empowering your kiddo to be independent and take charge of their own space. Many of these fantastic pieces are even height-adjustable to keep up with your child’s growth spurts and cater to their unique needs and preferences. Montessori play is a great way to improve confidence and self assurance.

What Makes a Book Shelf a “Montessori Style”

The burning question that first popped into my head was, what sets these shelves apart from the same old boring shelves? The answer is crystal clear – it’s all about accessibility! These game-changing shelves are designed to be low so that even a tiny tot can reach every nook and cranny. No doors are included to avoid any painful finger pinching and to make access a breeze.

Better Visibility

Another crucial aspect of Montessori bookshelves is visibility. Unlike us grown-ups who judge a book by its spine, kids judge solely by the cover. That’s why there’s plenty of space between each book, allowing them to easily pick out their favorite reads (which means, sorry to burst your bubble, those adorable reading corners aren’t really Montessori-approved).

Front Facing

Front-facing bookshelves do wonders for kids! They give the little ones a sneak peek at the fabulous contents and eye-catching covers of books, making them irresistibly appealing. And wait, there’s more! These shelves also make life easier for parents by keeping tabs on what books are currently out, allowing for effortless rotation. How amazing is that?  

Montessori bookshelves have taken households worldwide by storm. But what sets these beauties apart from your run-of-the-mill shelves was the burning question in my mind.

What is the purpose of a Montessori bookshelf?

Providing easy accessibility

One of the main purposes of a Montessori shelf is to provide easy accessibility to books for children. The shelving unit is short enough for even little tykes to reach and pick out their own books without needing help. This shelf helps them be independent and motivates them to look through and choose books that they like. By nature, kids are drawn to the colorful front of books. They are more exciting and enticing than reading a title off a thin spine, which is how those old-school bookshelves usually show off their collection. Montessori book shelves make it easier for kids to see what’s on the cover of the books and immediately inside of books, which promotes their interest in reading them. 

Encouraging independence

A Montessori bookshelf encourages independence by allowing children to take responsibility for their own learning. By having access to a variety of books, children can choose what they want to read and when they want to read. This fosters a sense of autonomy and self-confidence in their decision-making abilities.

The low height of the shelf allows even toddlers to reach and choose their own books without assistance. This promotes independence and encourages children to explore and select books according to their interests and make their own choices.

Promoting organization

Another important purpose of a Montessori display shelf is to promote organization skills in children. With the open shelves and clear display, children can easily see and return books to their designated spaces. This helps them develop important skills such as sorting, categorizing, and tidying up after themselves.

It also helps moms and dads stay on top of their kiddos’ book collection, making it a breeze to switch them up and keep track of things like reading habits, reading level and overall child interests.

Other Important Details About Great Montessori Bookshelf Options:

• They can grow with your child
• The shelves are low to the ground
• Many can be wall-mounted
• They often have hidden storage
• They make great reading nooks
  

How to choose the best Montessori bookshelf?

Consider the size and space

When choosing a Montessori bookshelf, it is important to consider the size and space available in your home or playroom. Measure the area where you plan to place the book shelf to ensure that it fits correctly and does not obstruct the flow of movement in the room. Additionally, consider the number of books you want to display and make sure the shelf has enough storage capacity.

Look for durability

Since a Montessori book display is intended for young children, it is important to choose a shelf that is sturdy and durable. Look for a shelving unit made from high-quality materials such as solid wood or natural birch plywood, which can withstand daily use and last for many years. If you want to go with a less expensive option consider a good quality, sturdy MDF.

Choose a shelf with front-facing display

Forward-facing display is a prominent characteristic feature of a Montessori book shelf. This means that the books are displayed with their covers facing forward, making it easier for children to see and select the books they want to read. This encourages independent decision-making and promotes a visual connection with the stories and a wider selection of books.

What are some popular Montessori bookshelves available? 

For those of your reading this article looking for a Montessori bookshelf, we’ve put together the most comprehensive list to fit your budget, aesthetic, size, kid’s needs and more.

Tidy Books® Montessori Bookshelf ~ $214

We love the Tidy Books Montessori Bookshelf because of the alphabet on the front, the fact that these have been handmade for over 20 years and made from quality materials. Built with strict safety testing in mind by a former violin maker, these adorable book shelves are sure to be used and loved for many years to come. With almost a full 5 stars, multiple color options and prime delivery, the Tidy Books Montessori Book Shelf is a great choice.

Pottery Barn Kids: Avery Low Book Rack  ~ $199

The mix of wood and white makes this the perfect Montessori shelf for those with a classic modern aesthetic. We love the low profile of the Avery making it perfect for even the youngest readers. Since it’s part of the “Avery” collection at PBK you can buy the entire set or mix and match pieces easily. It’s on the smaller side compared to other Montessori book units making it great for smaller spaces.

ECR4Kids Birch Bookcase ~ $149

The ECR4Kids Birch Bookcase is a popular choice for Montessori bookshelves on Amazon. It is made from sturdy baltic birch wood and has multiple shelves for organizing books. The front-facing display and low height make it accessible for young children, holding 5 tiers of books. It comes in 3 colors and even has storage in the back to help maximize space and storage.

RiverRidge Home Bookrack with Cubbies ~ $139

We love that this Montessori style book shelf has space for 3 storage cubes. Featuring a white painted finish and 4 shelves to display books it’s on the larger side of most store bought Montessori bookshelves. It can be purchased at Target online and ships right to your home.

Forbena Wall Mounted Montessori Bookshelf – Amazon’s Choice ~ $59

If you’re looking to save space, a Montessori Wall Bookshelf is a fantastic choice. It can be mounted on the wall at a suitable height for children and offers a great option for displaying books while keeping the floor clear for other activities. The Forbena shelf is an Amazon choice with almost a full 5 stars. It comes with 4 shelves made of sturdy pine wood, two different sizes and 4 popular colors including white, navy, pink and natural wood.

How to organize a Montessori bookshelf?

Use storage bins or baskets

To keep your Montessori bookshelf organized, consider using storage bins or baskets. These can be placed on the shelves to group books by theme, author, or level of difficulty. The bins or baskets also provide a designated space for children to return books after they have finished reading.

Create designated sections or cubbies

Divide your Montessori bookshelf into designated sections or cubbies to make it easier for children to find specific books. You can use labels or picture cards to indicate the different sections, such as fiction, non-fiction, animals, or alphabet books. This helps children develop categorization and sorting skills.

Display books with accessibility in mind

Arrange the books on the Montessori bookshelf with accessibility in mind. Place the books with their covers facing forward and at a height that is easily reachable for children. This makes it simple for them to choose books independently and encourages them to engage in reading and exploration.

Why are Montessori bookshelves suitable for playrooms and preschools?

Promote independence and self-directed learning

Montessori bookshelves are suitable for playrooms and preschools because they promote independence and self-directed learning. By allowing children ease of use to choose and explore books on their own, they develop a love for reading and become active participants in their own education.

Enhance the Montessori method of education

Montessori bookshelves are an integral part of the Montessori method of education, which emphasizes hands-on learning and individualized instruction. The bookshelf provides a physical representation of the Montessori philosophy and supports the child’s natural development and curiosity.

Offer a great option for toy storage

In addition to organizing books, Montessori bookshelves offer a great option for toy storage. The open shelves can also be used to display and categorize toys, promoting a sense of order and cleanliness in the playroom or preschool. This encourages children to take responsibility for their belongings and learn how to tidy up after playtime.

Consider Using a Montessori Bookshelf

Montessori bookshelves are emerging as indispensable tools in nurturing a child’s love for reading and fostering independence. These specially designed shelves, crafted with accessibility and visibility in mind, serve as magical portals that ignite young minds’ curiosity and thirst for knowledge. By understanding the unique needs of children, Montessori bookshelves provide easy access to a carefully curated collection of books, enabling even the tiniest tots to explore the world of literature effortlessly. Their front-facing design not only captivates young readers with enticing covers but also offers parents a convenient way to manage book rotation.

As the demand for Montessori-inspired learning spaces continues to rise, these innovative bookshelves stand out as game-changers, transforming ordinary rooms into stimulating environments that encourage confident, independent learners. Embrace the Montessori revolution today and witness the transformative power these shelves hold in shaping a child’s early learning experiences.

If you loved the information you gained on Montessori shelves, consider learning more about our favorite board books and other children’s books.

The post What is a Montessori Bookshelf? appeared first on Lucie's List.

Love ’em or hate ’em, you cannot deny the value that Amazon Prime offers to busy parents.

Here’s a quickie rundown of their best deals this round:

Featured Deals:

• Hauck Kid’s Wagon (above) ~ $139 (46% off). Read our review here.
• Hiboy Electric Scooter (below) ~ $299 (normally $499). We just bought one of these for Lucie to get to and from high school and it is a great deal! This is a legit adult commuting scooter (*not for little kids).

Strollers ~

• Bugaboo Fox 5 + Bassinet (below) ~ $588, was $1,299!

Car Seats

Nursery

Feeding

Electronics

Toys and Games

• See all (too many to list!)

Happy Prime Day, all!

~ Meg and Charlene

The post Amazon Prime Day 2024 appeared first on Lucie's List.

My three-year-old daughter proudly announced as I opened her lunchbox and found it packed just as I had left it that first morning of preschool.

Wait…whaaaaat? 

She didn’t actually mean she doesn’t like sandwiches, right? This can’t be correct. Surely she is mistaken. “Oh, sweetheart, you love sandwiches! Maybe you just didn’t want one today?”

She again proudly retorted, “I not like saniches!” The words burned my ears as I processed what that actually meant. This sweet little darling is sandwiched (no pun intended, ha) between my two PB&J devouring boys.

She, in one sentence, had flipped my lunch-making world, upside down. *Perhaps you have a child who is gluten-free, in which case, you also feel this pain quite well!

My husband came in to find me slumped over the kitchen chair. “Bad day at work?” Ha, no. Full-time job? Easy. Carpool schedule? Check. Laundry? Horrid (but manageable).

“It’s the LUNCHES,” I growled. He thought he misheard me,”Lunches?” And yes, I’ll leave it to your imagination what words I used from there to explain how the lunch packing situation had officially “won”.

His response was the hard line. “What? Packing lunches cannot cause you this much stress.  You know what? They just need to eat whatever you put in there!”

Uh-huh, I already know how this is going to go, but, I’ll give it a whirl! So a few days of my tough mom, “Yeah, You’re Gonna Eat This Because I Packed It!” act, and I was realizing first and foremost that I merely set myself up to be the recipient of a hangry, tired monster, which only led to further misery until her head hit the pillow.

How joyful.

So, there I stood, staring at the three empty lunch boxes as I tried to figure out how I could keep this whole thing simple. And as I pondered if there was some way to “force” this princess to like “saniches,” it hit me like a ton of bricks: the school lunch hour is the one and only time of their day where they have complete and utter control. So if the sanich-hater has spoken, she surely isn’t going to change her mind when no one is standing over her to say otherwise.

After some intense breathing and mustered-up willpower, an idea came to mind: lunch in a thermos.

“Lunch in a thermos?” I repeated out loud.

And so it began, The Art of Thermosing.

How to use a Thermos for Lunch

In the beginning, it was ugly. I have three lovely darlings with three very different ideas of what lunch looks like. So in my mind, I was trying to make this one-pot deal work across the board. 

After picking chunks of chicken out of chicken noodle soup (because one wants all the meat and the other wants all the noodles), I felt a need to readjust. There were some minor tweaks in general, but there was one major change that triggered my success. 

Think Pho bowl. 
Or even salad bar. 
All separate toppings, but easily available to throw in. 
Highly customizable to everyone’s desires.

Before I continue, I know what some of you are thinking… I pack lunches at night, this won’t work! Well, friends, if I can do it, you can too. As soon as my lovelies’ heads hit the pillow, I’m found either on the couch watching a show or enjoying time with friends, as I have to have a reset moment in the evening. Come morning?  Yikes. Hot. Mess. Express. So, rest assured, you too can finagle this, whether you’re a pre-packer, or if you pack like me, with one eye open slugging down coffee. 

Here goes…

Meal Planning: Thermos Lunch Ideas

Sometime between Friday and Sunday, I try to make the base of what I’m going to be doing that next week. For example, pasta. I will fix a large pot of pasta and put it in a big Pyrex container.  Sometimes my base is rice and beans, you get the picture (see my diagrams below ).

From there, I’ll fix the toppings that allow me to mix and match: sauce, meatballs (great to mass-make and freeze), ground turkey, placing them each in separate containers. You get the gist.

Come Monday morning, I throw the pasta in the microwave for a minute and start dispersing:  

• One thermos gets pasta and sauce (with a side of parmesan cheese in the lunch box.)
• Another gets pasta with butter and a meatball, no sauce!
• And the third kiddo, whatever it is, throw it all in, he’ll eat it (God bless, he’s my easy one!)

Favorite Recipes for Gluten Free and Thermos-Friendly Kids Lunches

This can be done with many different variations of protein (see below!) — and many of them start in the crock pot or InstantPot.

I work full time, all three children are in sports and we are active in our community, so time can be very limited, even on the weekends! I have found that if I make a crock pot of protein (chicken, ground beef, turkey, etc), it can really simplify the process. 

In my trial-by-error method, I learned that recipes don’t have to be detailed or involved for kids to enjoy them. So, if you reference children’s cookbooks, you can find some fairly easy recipes for things like soups, chili or stews that can end up being delicious and very easy to throw together using a lot of staple ingredients. (Because grocery shopping is a whole other ordeal. I can’t even.)

The basic idea is that you have a bunch of ingredients – ready to go – to mix and match.

Hot Lunch Ideas and Combinations

Useful Ideas/Recipes for “Thermos Bases”

• Instantpot Rice
• Black Beans (ready in 5 mins!)
• Pasta (no recipe required )

Useful Ideas and Recipes:

• Easy Spaghetti Sauce: combine ground beef (from skillet) with Rao (or any) spaghetti sauce
• Ground Beef (w taco seasoning)
• Taco Beef Skillet
• Mongolian Beef
• Easy Lasagna
• Meatballs

Useful Recipes:

• Shredded Chicken
• Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer (my fave!)
• Buffalo Chicken (uses breasts or thighs)
• Chicken Teriyaki over rice
• Chicken Parmesan with pasta

Useful Ideas Recipes:

• Chili (InstantPot)
• Pulled Pork
• Chicken Noodle Soup
• Easy, crispy tofu

My kids also love to “build their own”, so some shredded chicken can turn into a burrito.

Useful Tools

None of these tools are required, but GOSH, the right tools sure do make lunch-making life (and dinner! for that matter) a lot easier.

InstantPot Duo ~ $99

This multi-use cooker is the King of the kitchen. Anything you can make in a slow cooker can be made in the InstantPot for a fraction of the time.

Stainless Steel Containers ~ $19

These nested containers are perfect for storing your ingredients for the week. Say no to plastic, these are BPA free and eco-friendly.

Meat Shredder Claws (for chicken/pork) ~ $15

These claws make quick work out of chicken or pork for the perfect pulled meat.

Best Thermos for Kids Lunch

Lunchbots Thermal Insulated Food Container ~ $24

This 8oz container is perfect for the little ones with smaller appetites. We love that it’s short and wide — easy for kiddos to eat out of, and super convenient to fill.

Thermos OG Stainless Storage Jar

Who can argue with the original Thermos. This is perfect for kids (or adults) who have a bigger appetite, as it fits 16oz of food. Has a built-in foldable spoon that makes it extra fun. The top of the Thermos can be used as a small bowl or cup – just as you remember it!

I can tell you the thermos lunch for kids has been a game changer in our family. My children come home in a better frame of mind simply from having substance for lunch and have learned to prefer it to over 7 bags of highly-processed snacks. 

It pays to take some time to understand their feelings and needs at lunch. That – in and of itself – is a hurdle. 

With that, Happy Thermosing, friends.

XO,
Jen

See also: School Lunch Planner and The Dinner Problem

The post School Lunch Thermos Ideas appeared first on Lucie's List.

Now that you have children, mornings are jam-packed with tasks that are all potential speed bumps.

It’s well established that children do best when they know what to expect. This means creating routines and consistency is essential to a properly functioning household.

Now that school is back in session, it’s the perfect time to dust off all the rules and routines we had happily tucked away in the deepest corners of our minds for summer.

Here are 7 tips — plus a few helpful items — to get your kids to school/daycare on time.

1. Prep the Night Before

In other words, cover all your bases (or as many as possible) the night before, so you have less to worry about in the trenches of hectic school mornings.

Lay out clothes for the next morning (involve your kiddos if they like to choose their outfits), set the table for breakfast after clearing off dinner, pack up lunch boxes and snacks… You can even pick out clothing for the entire week ahead (see below for product recommendations). Anything you can prep the night before will free up brain space and help avoid crises and meltdowns at crunchtime.

Check out our school lunch planner to go the extra mile.

2. Add in Me-Time in the Mornings

Always give yourself more time than you think you need, even if it means giving up those last 30 minutes of sleep.

I personally like to wake up before my kids so that I can wake myself up and get ready in peace. In turn, it then allows me to fully focus on getting my children dressed, fed and ready for the day, which really helps our overall morning flow.

This usually comes with the need to discipline myself: I go to bed earlier to wake up earlier. No more hitting that snooze button.

3. Set up All the Timers

“15 minutes ’til we have to get out the door to catch the bus…

5 minutes… [phone timer goes off]. Time to put our shoes on and go!”

All hail timers!

Especially if you have kiddos who cannot yet read time, timers help everyone (grownups and little ones alike) stay mindful of the exact time a task needs to be fully accomplished.

In our house, we use timers specifically to get dressed and to get a sense of when we need to get out the door, especially when we work with the MTA/bus schedule. I usually use my phone, but I also love the visual/analog countdown timers that are more intuitive for children: they feature a colored disc that slowly disappears to let them know time passes. See the list below for our favorite time-saving devices.

If visuals don’t work, consider making a morning playlist with upbeat, motivating songs that your children are familiar with. The music cues and song changes can guide them through the different tasks they have to accomplish throughout the morning. For example, when they hear “Here Comes the Sun,” it’s time to get dressed.

4. Gamify the Morning

More specifically, make it a race.

I have never seen my children get dressed as quickly as when I tell them they need to have all their clothes on by the time I am done brushing my teeth.

The power of play is really a thing of wonders!

5. Reward them with “Free Time”

Nothing motivates my children to get ready like the reward of “free time,” where they get carte blanche in the activities they get to do before we head out.

During free time, my boys are allowed to play whatever they want, as long as they are dressed and ready to go. They sometimes choose TV (we only allow educational shows, like Story Bots or Sesame Street), but more often than not, they opt for free play (with legos or stuffed animals), drawing or reading (video games are off limits). The timer comes back out for “free time” so they know they only have a specific amount of time before having to put their shoes on, grab their backpacks and get out the door.

*Be careful, here… there are kids who will wake up extra early so they can hurry and get ready for school so they have extra time to watch iPad, for example. Some of them will get up earlier and earlier…. and that’s not what we’re going for.

6. Use Checklists

A simple checklist can do wonders for a smooth morning (or anytime!) routine. In our home, we use a whiteboard that can easily be updated as needed, and I set it outside my kids’ bedrooms so it’s the first thing they see when they open their doors in the morning.

Since my kids are older, I wrote out their morning checklist (i.e. brush your teeth; get dressed for school; put your jammies in the hamper; turn off your bedroom light; etc.) but if your children don’t yet know how to read, you can draw or print out pictures of each task as well.

We’re also big fans of the visual morning charts that use velcro tabs. Once your child is done with a task, they simply flip the tab up, and voila! If you feel in the mood for a little DIY project, you can make your own here.

7. Keep Breakfast Simple

Mornings are not the time to reinvent yourself as a chef. Keep your little ones’ breakfasts as easy as possible: peanut butter and banana toasts, minute oatmeal, toaster waffles (multigrain), avocado toasts, yogurt and granola are some of our favorite options to nourish our kiddos while staying on track.

Our Favorite Items to Keep Mornings Moving

Hatch Rest ~ $70

This ok-to-wake clock has been amazing to help get my children out of bed without too much fussing. Once they see that the light turns yellow and hear the birds chipping, they know it’s time to emerge and get ready for the day.

Visual Timer Clock ~ $ Varies

These visual timers feature colored discs to let your kiddos easily know how much more time they have to complete a task. If your children still don’t recognize their numbers, you can opt for versions that feature animals instead of numbers or that color code each time.

Kizik Sneakers ~ $69

With their hands-free design, Kizik sneakers are the easiest shoes to slide on — no laces or velcro to mess around with. Seriously, the transition out the door has never been easier. My kids have been wearing them every day for a year, and they’re still as good as new!

Wall Hooks ~ $ varies

Make your entryway kid and school friendly. We use magnetic hooks to secure our kids’ backpacks on our door so it’s easy for them to grab them as we head out for the day. Similarly (and not pictured here), we have coat hangers at their level so they can be as independent as possible on their way out.

Dry Erase Whiteboard ~ $6

Use a dry erase whiteboard like this one to jot down your kids’ morning checklist. It’s magnetic so you can put it on your fridge, or simply set it somewhere they’ll see it when they wake up.

Chore Charts ~ $17

These reusable to-do lists feature a sliding check box. Once your kids are done with a task, they can slide it to reveal the checkmark and feel super accomplished (I know it’d bring me a lot of joy…).

Weekly Clothes Organizer ~ $14

Get all the outfits ready the Sunday before the school-week with this handy hanging organizer.

That’s it! Let us know your favorite tips, tricks and items for getting out the door on time each morning — leave us a comment below.

Cheers! ~ Charlene

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