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mollymauk-teafleak · 4 years

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Help Wanted (chapter 3)

Huge thanks again to @minky-for-short and @spiky-lesbian who continue to be amazing beta readers!

Please consider leaving a comment on Ao3, it really helps

Chapters: 1, 2, 3

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Caduceus loved it when little kids would come into the Blooming Grove. It didn’t happen all that often, most of his customers were students from the academy or the nearby art school, coming in talking about their projects or dissertations, magic runes scrawled up their arms in biro and paint under their fingernails. But every so often, usually on sunny afternoons, parents would come in with strollers or tiny, pudgy hands held securely in their own, coming from the park or the fountain or the markets. The little ones would soon find themselves thoroughly spoiled, pressed with free cookies and cakes to go with their juice, the tall, nice man behind the counter always eager to listen to their nonsense and coo over whatever treasures they clutched. He kept a box of toys over in the corner for them to play with, picture books to read and there was always a napkin within reach when one was needed.

There were some skills you couldn’t shake, even if your siblings were miles away.

He was just helping a little drow toddler clean off some cookie crumbs before his mothers could notice when there was a yelp from behind the counter, accompanied by a loud hissing like some immense dragon.

“Caddy! Help! Emergency, Captain!”

“You don’t have to call me that!” Cad gave the little boy a pat on the head and went running over.

Fjord was being enveloped in bursts of steam that smelled like burnt coffee, belching from the ancient coffee brewer, coughing and waving his arms in an attempt to stave them off, “I told you, Caddy. Helga hates me.”

“She does not hate you,” Cad insisted, wading in and turning dials and pushing levers back up, slapping his palm against the sides in a particular rhythm.

Eventually it worked, the steam abating and the guttural hissing stuttering into silence. There was a final worrying rattle and a small tide of black, steaming, bitter sludge plopped from the dispenser into the waiting cup.

“Ew,” Cad’s ears flattened and his nose wrinkled, “Okay, maybe Helga does hate you. What did you do to her?”

“I didn’t do anything!” Fjord sounded indignant but clearly, like Cad, he was barely holding in laughter, “I tried to follow your instructions but I couldn’t remember them and I couldn’t find her manual…”

“She doesn’t have a manual, I bought her at a flea market,” Cad shook his head, slapping the immense bronze machine a few more times before nodding in a satisfied manner, “That should do it. What was the order?”

“Cinnamon coffee,” Fjord scratched at his jaw, still giving Helga a scandalised look.

“Right,” Cad moved to grab the right jars from the small, mismatched army of them that cluttered the bench, “Did you put the cinnamon in with the beans or did you add them separately?”

Fjord paused, eyes widening and jaw slackening in realisation, “Ah. The wrong one.”

Cad chuckled, nudging him lightly with a bony elbow, “Don’t worry. You’ll get it next time.”

For some reason, that seemed to make Fjord shrink a little, like he’d been expecting another step but his foot had found thin air instead. But only for a moment, then he was smiling again.

“Well, it’s my mess so I’m definitely cleaning Helga tonight.”

Cad let him have that, waving him back to work his usual magic with the customers so he could finish the drink. It had been a few months since he’d started working here and Fjord was clearly strongest when he was interacting with people, a relief seeing as conversation had never been Caduceus’ strong suit which he supposed came of growing up in the middle of the forest with only six other family members, talking to plants more than people.

In fact, Cad had learned a lot about Fjord, seeing him nearly every day, working elbow to elbow with him. He hummed while he worked. He didn’t like huge bits of onion in his food but if it was cut up small, he’d never notice. He’d gone to high school with Beau and Jester and become friends with Molly and Caleb and Veth through them. He’d been a sailor since he left school, speaking about the waves the same way Caduceus spoke about the forest. He always had a battered paperback in his bag, bought from a thrift store, even if there’d be no time in the day to read it. He woke up early and stayed up late, living on an amount of sleep that would have Cad wilting like a tulip in the heat. And he really needed a haircut but seemed in no hurry to get one.

Cad found himself filing away every new thing he learned, despite telling himself his crush had been a brief thing, just something silly his brain had spat up in amongst all the stress and change. Fjord was handsome, of course, but he was also becoming his friend on top of his employee which was way more important. He wasn’t going to put him in an awkward position by blushing like a teenager every time he opened his mouth. It wouldn’t be fair to him.

And besides, there was Avantika.

She was rarely in the cafe itself, which Caduceus couldn’t help but be grateful for, as selfish as he felt over it. Even so, her presence was felt almost every day, in the way Fjord would come in muttering under his breath, agitated and red faced, still reliving an argument he’d left behind. Or in the way he’d get calls sometimes that he would get anxious about taking, dropping whatever he was doing in the cafe to answer them coming back apologetic and shamefaced, with a tension in him that hadn’t been there before. Or the way clear up would run late- usually because the two of them were talking and laughing or Fjord was showing him a new song on the radio- and he’d sigh resignedly and head out for the bus stop rather than getting a lift from her. He never said anything directly about it but the pieces weren’t hard to put together. Fjord knew Cad would offer to drive him home and he also knew he wouldn’t be able to say no. And there would be something unacceptable about that, some rule broken by that action that he didn’t understand.

There seemed to be a lot of rules in Fjord’s...whatever he had with Avantika. One of them seemed to not be speaking about her at all, Cad had to base everything on what Fjord said with his muscles. He’d always been able to read that language better than anything, realising what people were trying not to say more than what they were actually saying. And he had learned shortly after that that people didn’t like it when you would state what it was out loud. He’d been working on that since coming to the city.

But no matter how many times he told himself it was none of his business one way or the other, that he needed to keep his broad, flat nose out of his new friend’s affairs, Caduceus did care. He did.

Fortunately, the rest of the Nein also cared and seemed determined to talk to him about it.

Beau and Caleb were in the cafe at the moment, as Caduceus tried to soothe Helga and get her back in working order by thumping his fist very carefully around her casing. They tended not to sit down when it was just the two of them, usually just on a pit stop in between class and a library session. They took different classes, of course, but they studied together which Cad found very strange, as they seemed to constantly bicker whenever they were within five meters of each other. Maybe they really didn’t know anyone else even remotely studious. Their significant others certainly wouldn’t qualify.

Fjord was taking orders, efficiently and smoothly, putting them together with barely a pause. He’d really been getting good at this, even in such a short space of time. Cad could see why he’d been so good on ships. Any task he was given, he threw himself into it fully until he’d mastered it and could move through it confidently. Cad barely ever had to show him something twice.

Thinking that he had this in hand- it was still an hour away from lunchtime, they were still in the ebb rather than the rush- Cad slipped over to Caleb and Beau, where they were leaning against the tall stools up against the counter, probably already arguing about something complicated to do with magic. Cad didn’t understand what there was for them to learn about magic for so many years. You just thought about it, asked nicely and it happened?

“Morning,” he rumbled congenially, setting their cups down in front of them. They came so often, he’d just started taking their own travel cups and filling them. Beau’s was scuffed and scratched from being shoved deep into her backpack with all her stuff, the logo of the Cobalt Soul still just about visible, clearly a freebie from her orientation nearly three years ago. Caleb’s was covered in cartoon kitty paw prints. Both were filled with black, incredibly strong study session grade coffee brew. Cad refused to sell them more than three cups a day, five cups a day during finals week.

“Hey, Cad,” Beau was bouncing on the balls of her feet, like she was shaking out all of her energy before having to stay still for an extended period of time.

“Good morning Caduceus,” Caleb had eyes only for his coffee, making grabby hands towards it before Cad had even passed it over.

“Only three, remember,” the firbolg warned him, not liking the look on his face, “I am keeping track.”

“I know,” Caleb said meekly, trying to look restrained and a little less like an addict, just taking one small sip before lowering the cup, as if to prove he could.

“Saw Fjord nearly send your coffee machine up in smoke,” Beau leaned a bandaged elbow on the counter, tipping her cup in the direction of the half orc, now chatting companionably with an elderly dragonborn woman as he put her granola bowl together.

“Easy mistake to make and no harm done,” Cad smiled in the same direction, just to himself, “He’s actually doing brilliantly. Starting to forget how I managed without him.”

Cad’s gaze was elsewhere, being much less subtle than he thought, so he missed the glance exchanged between Beau and Caleb.

“So, uh…” Beau leaned forward, bringing Cad’s eyes back her way, “You and Fjord, you get on well, huh?”

Cad was frowning over that, confused as to why she’d ask that when it was obvious, when they were both interrupted by a chime from Fjord’s apron pocket. The apron Cad had made him, done exactly to match his height, with waves stitched along the hem. He’d been delighted with it.

It went just as it always did. Fjord seemed to shrink in on himself a little, jaw tensing, teeth closing on his lower lip. He gave the woman her change quickly, eyes darting to Cad, gesturing apologetically and pointing at his pocket questioningly. Cad gave him a wave, there was no one else at the counter anyway.

Now Beau’s face was dark as thunder and even Caleb had a disapproving set to his jaw, like he’d swallowed something bitter other than his coffee.

“How many times a day does he get calls like that?” he asked, watching Fjord’s back disappear around the corner to the back room.

Cad shrugged, “A few. More some days than others. I’m not counting.” It wasn’t strictly a lie. He was trying not to count.

Beau muttered something into her cup that sounded unkind. When Caleb gave her a look she threw her hands in the air, nearly sloshing coffee on the wooden floor, “What? You know I’m right! She’s checking up on him like he’s a naughty kid!”

“I am aware,” Caleb sniffed, “And I don’t like it any more than you do. But we said we weren’t going to say that kind of stuff when he’s around.”

“Oh come on, he can’t hear us,” Beau rolled her eyes exaggeratedly.

Cad looked between the two of them anxiously, already feeling guilty but too curious to go and do something else, “So...you guys know about his girlfriend? Avantika?”

“Girlfriend is a strong word,” Caleb allowed, while Beau snorted derisively in the background, “More like...force of mutual destruction. Part time nemesis. Live in life ruiner.”

Caduceus wrinkled his nose, “Oh…”

“They’ve been like this since high school,” Beau’s lip curled, “They both got deep into this really dodgy patron, you know, how most people do at that age? Neither of them had a great childhood and it kind of just happens that way. Fjord started to have second thoughts once he became friends with us but she kept dragging him down into it. We all thought they were done when Fjord signed up with the Tide’s Breath, the ship he worked on? But now he’s home and they’ve just fallen right back into making each other miserable and making our lives shitty into the bargain!”

“That doesn’t sound...healthy…” Cad said slowly, taking his tail in his hands and wringing it anxiously.

“It’s not!” Beau slapped Caleb’s arm, “See! Cad gets it!”

“Ow! I’m on your side!” Caleb protested, rubbing his arm, “We all are!”

“You’re ridiculous, I barely touched you.”

Cad sucked in a breath, “People sometimes do things that don’t make sense because they don’t see that it’s hurting them. Or because something else is hurting them more and listening to someone else is easier. Even if what they’re telling you is bad.”

That got him an eerily twin set of concerned looks. Cad realised that maybe that should have been something he kept to himself, one of those things that made conversations awkward.

“We sort of get why he’s doing it,” Beau eventually said, slowly, “I mean, we’re basically Team Gone Through Bad Shit. Doesn’t mean we like it.”

“No one does,” Cad said quietly, eyes casting down to his tail, still clutched tight in his long fingers, “But saving people from themselves is difficult.”

“Hence why they’re still together,” Caleb murmured, “We know we can’t just go telling Fjord all of this without upsetting him and making things worse.” At that, he gave Beau a very significant look. She gave him the finger in return.

When Caleb ignored it, she sighed and hopped down from the stool, “We need to head out. Just...help us keep an eye on him?”

Cad glanced over. Fjord was back behind the counter, tapping his fingers restlessly on the wood, looking red faced and anxious. Clearly the conversation hadn’t been a pleasant one. Cad thought of all the times Fjord would look uncomfortable when he reassured him or instantly forgave an error or mistake. The way he’d get awkward about compliments, like he didn’t know how to hold them or where to put them. The way he needed to hold his overgrown hair back with a band but every day his tusks were freshly filed down, right to where it had to be painful, just so they wouldn’t be visible past his lip.

He couldn’t have a crush on him, it wouldn’t be fair. But that didn’t mean he couldn’t care about him. Far too late for that.

“Of course I will,” he said softly.

Caduceus was starting to enjoy closing up more than any other part of the day. Everything slowed down, there seemed to be more space to breathe and the whole evening stretched out in front of them, feeling like forever. And it would suddenly be just him and Fjord in the quiet, able to choose their favourite songs on the speakers and talk across the freshly wiped down tables and sing and joke.

It had started off tentative, back in the first few days. Neither of them were hugely eager to talk about the usual ice breaking questions like family, home, where they both were before now. Instead they’d talked in the present, about their interests. Cad had talked for hours about his rooftop beehive before realising he was rambling, except Fjord had still been listening intently, almost as if he didn’t care how much time had gone by. Fjord talked about how he was getting back into the battered old acoustic guitar he played, whatever book he was reading, whatever podcast he was listening to.

But, as it often went, talk about small things became talk about big things without really meaning to.

Tonight, Fjord was wiping down the tables and Cad was moving from plant to plant, watering contentedly. As he worked, the half orc was explaining some interesting historical magic experiments he’d been reading about in a book Caleb had lent him.

“...I used to think that kind of stuff was so interesting when I was younger. How people know what they know now, how all these big ideas became fact, y’know? Used to have all these daydreams about being at the academy and seeing the places all this big thinking happened…”

Cad looked over his shoulder, interested, “You want to apply to the academy?”

And then suddenly Fjord was tense, awkward, ducking his eyes to focus on the already clean mosaic table top, acting like he’d said something he shouldn’t have.

“I mean, I used to. When I was younger. A lot younger.”

Cad felt the urge to back off, the sensation that they were suddenly standing on some kind of line. But he couldn’t help but feel letting it go would be breaking the promise he’d made to Beau.

“You still could,” he said quietly, “They take students of all ages.”

Fjord still didn’t look up, “I, uh...I don’t think that’s the path for me anymore. I mean, when would I fit it in now? Not gonna be long before I’m back out on the ocean.”

Cad frowned delicately. He had mentioned that a few times, the fact that this was temporary, a stop gap until he found hire on another ship. But there was always something so rehearsed about the way he said it. Like he was copying someone else’s words.

“Paths can change,” Cad allowed after a pause, “But sometimes you can think that way but old loves come back, ones you thought you’d outgrown. And they’re stronger than ever.”

“Sounds like you’re speaking from experience?” The attempt to change the subject was obvious but Cad let him have it. He wasn’t looking to make him uncomfortable.

He smiled softly, fingers gently brushing the almost silky leaves of his yucca plant, “My whole family worships Melora, the Wildmother. Have you heard of her?”

“I don’t think so,” the bridge of his nose scrunched up adorably when he was thinking.

“Not many people have,” Cad reassured him, “She’s mostly for the quiet places, where nature’s grown over the scars in the earth. Places like where I grew up...she was practically another family member growing up, you could feel her everywhere. She’s soft and gentle and kind and there’s nothing she can’t heal.”

Fjord’s expression softened, “She sounds nice.”

“She is,” Cad chuckled wryly, “And I was raised to be her cleric from the moment I was born.”

“Really?” Fjord’s eyebrows shot up and Caduceus could understand why, even as he cringed internally. He’d never mentioned having any kind of magic, he never used it around the cafe except in ways too small to notice. It was quite deliberate. Every time he reached for the well of power inside himself, the quiet place where he could smell damp moss and fresh grass and feel it under his feet no matter where he was, he’d feel a tug of homesickness. Even with the long conversations he’d had with the Wildmother, one sided conversations where he was answered by breezes and bird calls, even with his certainty that he had her support, his magic had a bitter taste to it these days.

“Really,” Cad murmured, hoping Fjord wouldn’t press the matter, “And there was a good few years where I resented the hell out of it.”

“Oh,” Fjord’s eyes widened.

Cad smiled coyly, “I had a full teenage tantrum. Pouting, breaking things, yelling. No one in my family yells… I made a complete fool of myself. It was a week out from my cleric initiation and suddenly I was tired of having all of my decisions made for me and wanted the world to know it.”

“How old were you?” Fjord grinned.

“Thirty five. Just a kid.”

“Oh…so what happened?”

“One night, I got it in my head that I was going to run away,” Cad turned back to his plant, practically petting it, “I packed a bag, climbed out of my window in the middle of the night...I told myself I was never coming back, without so much as a goodbye.”

Fjord had abandoned his table entirely, looking at Caduceus with his full attention, “Really?”

“Yep,” the memory of his own stupidity still made the fur on his neck stand up, “And I would have done it, if I hadn’t taken a wrong turn. I’d lived in those woods all my life and somehow I took a wrong turn, tell me how that happens without divine intervention. But all of a sudden, I wasn’t on the path anymore. I was in this beautiful clearing, waterfall gently bubbling...the place I was meant to take my initiation in a few hours, the very thing I was supposed to be running away from. And it occured to me that I’d been feeling all of this anger and sadness and confusion, it had been tearing me up inside for longer than I’d even realised...and I’d never talked to anyone about it. I couldn’t tell my family, not when they’d had this image of me as their perfect, devoted son. So...maybe I could tell her.”

“And you did?” Fjord sounded a million miles away, Cad lost in his own memory.

“I did. I talked until my voice ran out, until the sun came up. I told her everything and afterwards I felt so...so clean. People had been telling me all my life to follow the Wildmother and I had, because they’d told me to. That night was the night I decided to follow her because I chose to. I took my oath then and there.”

“Wow,” Fjord murmured, “I can’t imagine feeling that way about...anything, really.”

Cad was about to ask how come Fjord had his own patron then, before realising he’d have to explain how he knew that. And then realising he probably wouldn’t like the answer.

Instead he smiled, “It’s always waiting for you, Fjord. For all of us.”

That brought a laugh, the kind he only did when he wasn’t thinking because it would show his filed tusks, “That’s a nice idea, Caddy.”

He grinned back, moving to the next plant, caring for each of them as devotedly as he could manage, each one a growing, green prayer, “It is. Even nicer for being true...the Wildmother helped me realise I wasn’t happy at home, years after that night, when I was actually ready to make that decision. She brought me here, to this cafe and to the life I have now. She helped me not feel so lost. And there’s something out there that will help you feel the same, Fjord. Maybe it’s the academy. Maybe it’s your next ship.”

Maybe it’s here.

The words were on his lips without thinking, desperate to be spoken, straining to tumble into the air between them.

Caduceus swallowed them back. It wouldn’t be fair. And there was no guarantee that saying it would make it true.

“Thanks, Caddy. For sharing that with me,” Fjord’s voice seemed different somehow, in a way he couldn’t put his finger on. Maybe he was just tired.

“You’re welcome… you know you can talk to me anytime, right? About whatever you want... doesn’t have to be work stuff or, um…I mean anything.” Cad winced at himself. How had he gone from being so articulate to tripping over his own feet when he wanted to ask a simple question?

Fjord seemed on the verge of his usual tension when help was offered but then he seemed to shake it off, like rainwater, “Thanks. That means a lot, Caddy.”

Cad resisted the urge to clap his hands. He’d done exactly as Beau asked and made Fjord smile into the bargain.

“Why don’t you clean out Helga? That might make her like you. I can finish up the plants and tables.”

Fjord seemed grateful for the chance to move, like just accepting help had filled him with restless energy, “Oh, I’ll do that! She’s going to end up loving me, I swear.”

“I’m sure,” Cad chuckled quietly as he jumped up and headed for the counter.

He’d make sure they were wrapped up in time for him to get a ride home. One personal leap a day was enough, he felt.

Cad moved to the next plant, a terrarium full of mushrooms he’d taken from the grove, already softly starting to glow as the light dimmed. Just for a moment, he placed his palms on the smooth curve of the glass, the green luminescence filtering through the gaps between his fingers like he held a heart in his hands.

And all he could smell was fresh grass, new fallen rain on green things. He felt his nerves alight with power he’d had inside himself since that promise he’d made. And it felt right.

Cad smiled, leaning close and whispering just in case, “I’m going to keep an eye on him...but maybe you could too?”

The mushrooms immediately grew brighter in his hands, far brighter than they should be for the time of day.

Caduceus took that as a yes.

#fjorclay #teahaw #modern au #coffee shop au #toxic relationships #also good excuse to write my fave empire siblings #fjord #caduceus clay #caleb widogast #beauregard lionett #critical role #cr fic

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ft-dads-au · 4 years

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Chance Encounter - Chapter 3

Home for the Holidays 2019 Prompt: Sharing A collaboration by @mdelpin and @oryu404 AO3 | FF.Net | Prev: Ch 2 | Ch 3 | Next: Ch 4

May 12, 2020

5:20 pm

It took a few adaptations to the usual schedule and extracting a promise from Sting to meet them there after work. Still, when Rogue arrived at the community center, both of his sons were fed, washed, and ready for bed, and the list of questions he had failed to prepare for yesterday’s interview was fully drafted on his phone.

The voice recorder was charged and equipped with an SD-card that had plenty of available memory left. The diaper bag contained everything it should and then some, and on top of it all, they arrived more than half an hour before the meeting was supposed to start so he’d have enough time to re-do the interview.

‘The things you can get done with good planning,’ he thought to himself as he wrestled the stroller through the entrance of the building.

Young girls could be heard singing and giggling over upbeat pop tunes. The sounds immediately drew the attention of the twins, especially Kuro, who started fighting against the stroller’s straps so he could lean towards the direction the sounds were coming from. He was still too young to be able to point his fingers, but he made his demands very clear by reaching out and giving a loud, vocal instruction.

“Buuhhh!”

“Sorry Cupcake, I don’t think that’s meant for us,” Rogue responded before turning to the receptionist. “Good evening, I’m here for the Dad’s Club. Could you please tell me where I can find its meeting room?”

The receptionist’s head snapped up at his voice. She looked frazzled, very much like someone who wasn’t having a good day, but just as she was about to speak, Haku made a noise that made her peer into the stroller.

“Oh my goodness, aren’t they sweet?” The receptionist made silly faces at the twins as Rogue watched with mild amusement. She finally looked back up at Rogue, her lips curled into a friendly smile, a welcome change from her previous dour expression.

“The Dad’s Club meetings are held in the daycare center, but that space is currently being used for rehearsals by a dance group. Unfortunately, the school holidays have led to the daycare center being double-booked, but the club meeting is still scheduled to take place as soon as possible.”

“I see. Do Mr. Conbolt and Mr. Clive happen to be present already?” Rogue asked, feeling discomfort settle in the pit of his stomach at the name Clive alone, “I’m supposed to meet them ahead of the club, but maybe I got here a little too early.”

Rogue startled as the doors of the community center suddenly slammed shut behind him. He looked into the stroller quickly to make sure the twins hadn’t been frightened, but it seemed as if they were still focused on the music coming from the daycare center.

He turned around only to see Macao and Gildarts walking towards him, arms laden with several supermarket bags.

“You bought too much food again,” Macao Conbolt complained, “What are we supposed to do with all this?”

“Stop worrying so much, someone will eat them, it’s a bunch of guys right?” Gildarts shrugged off Macao’s displeasure, “Seriously, I could probably eat all this on my own.”

They hadn’t seen Rogue yet, too intent on their bickering to notice anything around them. Soon they had reached the receptionist’s desk.

“Is that why you were trying to buy the booze rather than the juice boxes I asked for?” Macao challenged, and Gildarts flashed him a careless grin while simultaneously grabbing a rose from one of the bags.

“Running this club has aged you, Macao, you’ll never find a good woman this way,” Gildarts handed the rose over to the receptionist who could only gawk at it and then at Gildarts. A look that Rogue recognized well from hanging around the man when he was younger, “Wouldn’t you agree, Gladys?”

“When did you even get a rose?” Macao looked inside the remaining bags presumably to check for any additional contraband.

“A man is always ready,” Gildarts shrugged before once again, dazzling poor Gladys with his winning smile.

Rogue found himself feeling sorry for the receptionist, Gildarts was unlike anyone else Rogue had ever met. He was big, loud, and brash, but he could also be incredibly charming and fun.

Once, he’d been like an uncle to him. A rather annoying uncle that was always involving himself where he didn’t belong. Before he had much chance to think about the man, the receptionist ratted him out, probably to divert attention away from her.

“Uhm, that man over there was asking for both of you,” Gladys helpfully pointed him out, and suddenly he wished the stroller were larger so he could just hide behind it. He wasn’t sure how Gildarts was going to react when he saw him, considering their last interaction hadn’t been a very pleasant one, and that made him awfully nervous.

To his surprise, Gildarts regarded him with interest, observing him as well as his sons with keen eyes. Rogue’s unease began to mix with confusion, and an added layer of guilt to top it all off when he saw a familiar grin form on Gildarts’ face as if nothing had ever happened between them.

“Never thought I’d see the day when the half-pint had a half-pint of his own, and two at that!”

Before Rogue had a chance to protest the use of that most hated of nicknames, Gildarts had already put down the bags he was carrying and moved over to Rogue, surrounding him in one of his infamous bear hugs that Rogue had to admit he’d missed. He wrapped his arms around the larger man slowly, unsure of what was happening but not wanting to fight the affection he was receiving.

They separated, and Gildarts peered into the stroller, “And who are these fine lads?”

“Guys, we’re kind of blocking this area maybe we could move this reunion somewhere else until the room opens up? Gladys?”

“Let me check,” Gladys looked at a map on her desk that was filled with dry erase marker entries, identifying the available spaces within the community center, “It looks like the small meeting room across from the daycare center is open.”

“Wonderful, thank you, Gladys,” Macao began to move towards the room Gladys had indicated with Gildarts hurrying to grab his bags and follow along with Rogue, both remaining silent for the moment.

There were so many things Rogue wanted to ask, none of them related to the Dad’s Club. A glance at his watch, however, made him realize those questions would have to wait, they’d wasted too much time already.

The kids were being pleasantly agreeable for once, their eyes darting from place to place as they looked at all the new things. The building, which was used as a community space, was decorated in cheerful colors with murals painted by a local artist by the name of Reedus Jonah decorating many of the walls.

They entered a small room containing a conference table that could seat six with enough room left over to comfortably place the stroller near the door so the kids could listen to the music.

Once Rogue was sure the kids were settled, he took a seat at the head of the table with Gildarts and Macao sitting on either side of him. Rogue could feel Gildarts watching him but chose to ignore it, grabbing his recorder and briefly looking at his phone screen to review the questions he’d come up with. Placing the recorder on the table, he made sure to turn it on, waiting for the red LED to light up before asking his first question.

“I guess I should start by asking what the club is, what purpose does it hope to serve?”

Macao and Gildarts stared at each other briefly with Gildarts gesturing for Macao to answer.

“Well. Makarov Dreyar and his friend Yaj Ima were both having some issues with their kids, and when they went looking for help, all they found were groups geared towards women. This was back in the eighties. They talked to some of their other friends and found that a lot of them were also frustrated by the lack of resources geared towards them, so they all got together and formed the first incarnation of the Magnolia Dad’s Club.”

“The idea was to support each other through problems and provide help, however possible. For example, Gildarts here was a social worker so occasionally he would be asked questions on fostering, child visits, things like that. Everyone lent their skills and expertise to help others.”

Gildarts had been a social worker? For as long as he could remember, Rogue had heard his father complain about the dangerous missions his friend went on for work. Gildarts’ daughter, Cana, would stay with them, forcing Gray and Rogue to share a room until he returned. Both Cana and his dad would be nervous wrecks until Gildarts booming voice could once again be heard.

“Okay, so if I understand correctly, the club was founded in the eighties?” Rogue verified, “and you mentioned that was the first incarnation, so what happened to it?”

“What happened was you all grew up, “ Gildarts remarked, “I’m surprised you don’t remember the club at all. You, Cana and Gray used to come to some of the meetings with us. We’d go get fast food after.”

Now that Gildarts mentioned it, Rogue vaguely remembered something, but it was sort of hazy. He mostly recalled going to eat with their dads. That was always fun, especially when they were in a good mood and joking around together.

“Makarov and Yaj were getting old, they’re in their seventies now, so when they announced their retirement and no one stepped up to replace them, the club just kind of died. That was about ten years ago,” Macao added, an almost wistful expression on his face.

“So why start up again now after so much time had passed?”

Macao and Gildarts remained quiet for a moment, and this time it was Macao who gestured towards Gildarts, letting him answer.

“Well, Makarov reminded us that it was time for us to pay it forward, and he was right. It might be 2020, but the fact remains that for every one resource that exists for fathers out there, there are twenty for mothers,” Gildarts explained.

“When I found out I had a daughter, I had nowhere to go to ask for help. I ended up at your doorstep with a crying little girl who had no idea who I was to her. Your father introduced me to this club, to other men like me who were just trying their best to be good dads, and it helped. It made me a better father and a better person overall.”

“There are plenty of fathers out there who are lost, who knows maybe you’re one of them,” Gildarts gaze was intense as it fell on Rogue, “If I can help them out, don’t I have the responsibility to do so?”

“I’m not sure what you’re trying to say —”

“My wife left us when my son was very young,” Macao interrupted, trying to defuse the sudden tension that had taken over the room, “I was really lost until I found an ad for the club in the Teacher’s Lounge of the high school I teach at. It took me a couple of weeks to admit to myself that I wasn’t okay and that I needed help, but once I did, these guys took me in. They helped me get through arguably the toughest time in my life. I’d like to do that for others.”

“Yeah, I mean it’s not like Makarov fed us drinks until we agreed or something,” Gildarts scoffed while Macao glared, “That would be silly.”

Rogue wasn’t sure what to make of that last statement. With Gildarts, it was hard to tell what was fact and what was fiction sometimes.

“Okaaay, you mentioned yesterday there was babysitting, what other services do you provide?” Rogue tried to steer them back onto more neutral ground.

As Macao opened his mouth to answer the door to the daycare center opened and he scrambled to grab the bags. Rogue noticed Gildarts sneak something into the bag nearest him with an impish grin.

“I’ll go set up the snacks and get the coffee going before more people arrive,” Macao declared with his usual friendly smile, “I’ll be happy to answer any additional questions you might have after the meeting.”

Rogue nodded at him and gave him a sour smile in return. Gildarts showed no sign of moving, looking pretty comfortable in his seat, so that meant he was stuck with him for now. Not even the twins were going to save him this time, they were both completely focused on their toys. No crying, no screaming, no attempted escapes or diaper explosions. Of course, that only happened when it was highly inconvenient. Great.

“So-” Gildarts finally spoke up, drumming his fingers on the table, “Long time no see. How’ve you been doing? Looks like you’ve been busy.” He raised his eyebrows as he shot a quick but amused glance towards the twins. And while there weren’t many things that defined the word busy like caring for two very dependent, tiny humans did, knowing Gildarts that wasn’t what he was referring to.

The repetitive tapping of Gildarts’ fingers on the wood grated on Rogue’s nerves. It sounded unnatural, like fingernails scratching against a chalkboard. His eyes were instantly drawn to the offending digits only to realize he’d somehow managed to forget that Gildarts’ left arm and leg had been replaced with prosthetic limbs. A souvenir from one of his missions that had gone horribly wrong.

“I’m sorry,” Rogue ignored the comment, offering a long overdue apology instead, even as his eyes remained glued on Gildarts’ fingers. “I know you were just making sure I was okay back then, but I was just so angry for being left alone for so long. It—”

“You don’t need to apologize for anything, Rogue,” Gildarts interrupted him, the use of his actual name a clear indication that he was serious for once. “I should have gone sooner, I let myself get caught up in my own shit and — nevermind. Point is we’re fine.”

“I guess we both did,” Rogue thought aloud, resting his chin on the palm of his hand. He was glad that Gildarts had accepted his apology, but it didn’t make him feel any better about his actions. He’d been upset about being alone, but Gildarts had been dealing with his whole life being turned upside down. “You probably miss them too, huh?”

“Every day, kid,” Gildarts winked, but there was an underlying sadness that Rogue could relate to. He reached out with this right hand and ruffled Rogue’s head, messing up his ponytail and changing the topic. “I like this new look you’ve got going, it suits you.”

Rogue’s hands moved to his hair, gauging the damage before giving up and letting it down. He ran his fingers quickly through it, glaring as Gildarts began to chuckle at him.

“You are so annoying!” Rogue blurted out loudly, making Gildarts laugh even harder.

“There he is!” Gildarts exclaimed, his grin making him look younger than his fifty-five years, “I’m still me, you know. The prosthetics just make me harder to beat in a fight.” Gildarts pumped his fists in a pretend punching motion.

“When the hell were you a social worker?” Rogue didn’t know why that question felt so important, but it was in stark contrast with everything he thought he knew about the man.

“I’m insulted you didn’t know. I have a Master’s Degree in Social Work, but I enlisted in the Navy right after graduate school. Hmm, let’s see, that was right when I first found out about Cana. I did it for a few years, but I hated it. I got better results in the Navy.”

He looked down at his watch, “We’d best get moving, You’ll probably get most of what you need for your article from the meeting itself. Plus,” Gildarts rubbed his hands together in glee, “I don’t want to miss Macao’s face when he finds my little surprise.”

“What did you put in the bag?”

Gildarts gave one of his goofy grins as he stood up, “You’ll see.”

Rogue followed suit, collecting the recorder and slipping it into his pants pocket before walking over to the stroller and following Gildarts out.

#fairy tail #ftdadsau #ftlgbtholidays2019 #ftlgbtales #stingue #fics #update #prompt: sharing #macao & gildarts #gildarts & rogue

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towardafierygrave · 5 years

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The 6 Best Travel Systems For Baby and toddlers

Journey system strollers are normal single strollers that include an toddler automobile seat. With a top rated Snug Journey 30 automobile seat, mother and father can even delight in the 18.eight whole pounds, weighing it in properly below the remainder of the class.

We have now diminished the donkey work of choice by identifying 10 of the perfect and the newest child strollers with car seat which can be prone to be what you're looking out for, read this blog article from babykidshq.

You'll additionally enjoy utilizing the extra-massive storage basket, two cup holders, and guardian's storage with a tray. Your child additionally gets their own removable tray for snacks and drinks. Graco's first jogger is the definitive crossover stroller, which mixes the entire consolation and comfort features beard by the outdated design strollers.

After contemplating 20 jogging strollers and spending 15 hours testing six, we found that the Thule City Glide 2 is the very best one for most dad and mom. The second is the regular lightweight square-fold stroller. These journey strollers take up essentially the most space when folded, but generally offer higher features and one-handed steering (usually).

The system is designed with convenience in mind. It is lightweight at under 17.5 kilos, folds with one hand, and contains a storage latch, so it stays shut if you're not using it. The Britax travel system is ideal for that because the seat itself has nice ventilation with a cover that protects your loved ones from the sun (even in 50+ UV circumstances).

The Bravo® stroller's open dimensions are 35.5-inches long x 21.75-inches high x 43-inches wide. The folded dimensions are 16-inches lengthy x 21.seventy five-excessive x 28-inches large and weighs 23-pounds. Handy storage basket along with little one and guardian trays. The pros:

The Britax B-Agile 3 B-Protected 35 is a safe, high quality travel system offering essential security features, comfort for folks, and a snug ride.

The Fold Jogger Click on Join is compatible with all Graco toddler car seats. Its front wheel both swivels and locks. Nevertheless, although this stroller does recline, the specs do not point out a full (180 diploma) recline. Whether or not taking child for a jog in the park or an off-the-cuff stroll within the neighborhood, our strollers make it easy for an active household to get around.

An enormous plus? The basket is accessible even when the seat is reclined. Also, the handle is top-adjustable to accommodate dad and mom of differing heights. Accessories. Would you like your child's stroller to have a storage basket, rain cowl, blanket, sun shade or cup holder? Some strollers aren't compatible with certain equipment.

In case you're looking for inexpensive comfort, this Graco system offers straightforward, one-second folding, nice safety features, and a finances-pleasant price ticket. Labelled the right pushchair by mum-of-two Lily Allen, the updated UPPAbaby Cruz is a light-weight metropolis journey system that is perfect for negotiating the busy streets and looking out trendy too.

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The consolation that this stroller provides to infants cannot be compared with many other journey systems as it stays one of many few strollers with a peek-a-boo-window. The Duet can accommodate two toddler car seats, as seen right here with two Chicco Keyfit 30 seats and adapters.

Pop the stroller seat out and the three-in-one Chicco Bravo Trio Journey System capabilities as a light-weight car seat carrier for infants; pop it back in and use it as a stroller for babies and toddlers. What I like about this stroller are the handy options like mum or dad and child tray with cup holders and a big basket underneath the seat which supplies us loads of storage for child's essential and purchasing luggage.

Let adorable characters accompany you and your little ones on all of your outings with Disney Amble that includes on board 22 car seat designed to make traveling a pleasure. It's also mild - weighing just 7.3kg with the seat or 9.7kg with the carrycot connected, and it folds all the way down to 82cm x 58cm x 31cm.

At this time's mother and father are out and about, and their infants are too. That is why a child journey system is totally essential to a mother or father's skill to be busy. One of the best baby travel system? Relies on your wants. Straightforward car-to-stroller shifting.

No un-fastening, transferring and re-fastening your baby in the middle of the grocery retailer parking zone. Unclick the carrrier from the carseat, snap it into the stroller. Compatibility.

2. For round $one hundred fifty you obtain well-outfitted stroller with extremely rated toddler car seat and two trays. This product incorporates a light-weight frame and a three-wheel design for straightforward maneuvering. The car seat is designed to get out and in of the bottom simply.

Air Vents: It is also nice if the travel stroller has an option to zip open an air vent to keep your little one cool in hot weather. Good for journeys to grandma's home or wherever child decides to play. Graco's conventional playards are light-weight and straightforward to pack up for a secure and secure play area at home or on the go.

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msinha-galaxy · 4 years

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Motherhood of 16 years.

Amazing years-They just went by swiftly. When I look back to her turning 16; each moment of her being is just divine; A God’s angel gifted to me. She gave a meaning to my life; living my life and my childhood once again through her eyes. Her first cry; her first word; to her first test; to her first sadness; to her first friend all are truly special moments. I wish I could again live them each day.

0 years in the tummy: Kicking mummy dearest with all her might.. for every month making her mumma cry in pain almost bed ridden- Mamma feeding herself Rasgullas and pomegranates and all nutritious food for healthy good looking baby.

I will be helluva of a girl Mamma ! Watch out for me...Navratre comes; full blown pregnant mumma dreams of Durga and Laxmi. Is there a cute little Meri Durga in my tummy?.. mumma is dreaming of little princesses clad in white lehngas running around laughing and giggling around the house with sounds of lil girls wearing Payals. Yes it is the sign of my princess arriving my Durga my Laxmi my Sarswati arriving..

Two days post Dusshera she is Born Eshita Vani !! aka Laxmi Sarswati...

0-1 year : was the most quietest time; beautiful angel always looking towards her mummy with blue eyes. Lil angel beautiful; pink as a rose; doe eyed - mumma’s heart out of her body..

1-2 years: Loathed the Crèche. Howled her lungs out as she had to leave Mumma’s arms. Always looking for mummy’s bosom for breastfeed - the moment mummy is in sight. She knows no one except mummy and mummy’s arms. She cried and cried when she went through a mundan. Mummy’s heart wept to see her that sad.

Calls her father Daadda; doting father; who just lets her do everything- right to Painting the Ghar ka wall with Crayons to not wearing anything only undies...

Comes Mausi the villain - gets the little Esha wean off breast milk - mummy’s heart bled watching Lil Esha lick salt and mirchi. Cried all night missing her comfort - mumma’s Duddhoo. Mausi is practical and loving will sleep with Esha for next 7 days...

2-4 years: Now found new love in grandparents; Aaka; and Mausi. She is fast; supermodel always infront of mirror; changing clothes every 30 mins. Cat walked her way every where.

Mummy made a really bad hairlook to school yet told her teacher my mummy says I am beautiful and look like a princess.

Pride of a lioness cub; lovely as a doe; yet feisty in 2 feet of her being.

Her Aaka is the greatest; her first friend; she ruled him with her demands and he reciprocated with all his love to his Eshu.

Meri laado ki mehndi every weekend courtesy Naana!!

4-6 years: Blackmailed her mummy to buy clothes with her little tantrums in the mall. You should now know her as my little Paris Hilton - color coded top to bottom with mini satchel; sunglasses; shoes and dress. She is my Tyra Banks and Naomi Campbell walking out of Lilliput Kid’s Store.

Enrique Iglesias croaking for her always since kid...A 5 years old Esha singing along I'm not in love it's just a fase that I'm going through i 'm always looking for something new 🎶🎵🎶🎵

Her Daadda disappears... Esha is a l’il sad each day as it goes yet each day a lot more happier with her new life with Naana; Naani and Mummy enfolds with new adventure infront of her... Her Naana becomes her strong fort around her. Her Aaka becomes her bro her friend her mausa No he is only Aaka....

Naani’s little brat was scolded- Little Esha packed her Barbie stroller and said I am leaving the house... couldnot help but turned back from the front door oh she doesn’t know where to go!

Homework with mummy never ! Mummy and home are supposed to be fun... PTM teacher pointed out she doesn’t do homework... Hello aren’t you supposed to teach her... she is supposed to spend time with Mumma and simply have fun.. school changed their rules...

Esha watches her Mausi’s tummy grow with doted eyes who is in there; will be taking her space.

Esha is 5 years and her sister arrives Anika.... She see her come to this world...her mausi shouting to top of her voice.. Amazed to witness the birth of her baby sister

They grow...4 and 9 uff.. what rivalry they share... right from Dresses to Doremon toys-Nothing to share with each other - every minute of love and play broken by a bout of fight and heartbreaks.

Esha growing with Naana and Naani and mummy.. Esha a little sad a little happy as new life stores lots of adventure and new world.

6-10 years: Comes Naani the SuperMom- life mein Twist... Naani brought Esha back to two T-shirts’ and two jeans. Finally hindi lessons and writing at age of 6..

Naani made Esha Raani excel in class. Every year Golden Star award! My Paris Hilton became Super achiever. Every year strived to do better than before...

My Golu molu angel had best of time with her Naana ... Naana loved his piece of heart... Her every wish is a command for him...

Yuvaan her lil brother comes to the world.., Lil Esha all overwhelmed looking at her small bro - dances in celebration in Mumbai along with Anika. She is taking care of her Mausi.. as she is happy for Yuvaan..

10 years-12 years Golu Molu Esha is a bunny toothed. Anjali Ekka is a soul sister; growing friendship see no bound.

My friends are her friends.. Her first pasta at Bristol with Abhishek uncle; Abhishek Uncle became the Pasta Uncle... every weekend she said innocently Aaj pasta uncle ke paas jaa rahe hai Kya ?

Sprite her favorite drink- Naana has smuggled Sprite at home come what may..

She is in love with her Maths teacher Richa Ma’am- she made her fall in love with maths for life...o Richa Maam married why O Richa Maam pregnant ohNo...

13 years - finally teenager Smita mausi - comes with a lot of teen wisdom n a lot of checklist for Lil Esha to accomplish. Her first kindle arrives with Smita mausi. Her love with books grows from here.

Arpita mausi nicknamed Eshita “Rockstar” - shares same interests - mimeing and singing. Hearing Arpita mausi sing- Esha finds her new interest of singing.

13 years : Watches Beti Bachao Andolan asks why it is important... and her existential question where is her dadda.. on talking with him for 3 days she says - mamma I am proud of you .you made the right decision.

Esha I am proud of you... you are my lil hero who inspires me to be the best version of me every day. To smile come what May ...

14-15 years - Mausi and Aaka are the guradian angels. Mausi keeping hawk eye on Esha’s progress.

Gets herself braces. the unbearable pain of braces for the entire year but the future to have better teeth than bunny teeth.

Anika’s Didi is growing; she is the big sister now.. Still sharing rivalry not for Doremon but for “she said- I said” “don’t disturb me”and wet eyes....wahi roothna wahi manaana... Esha Didi is teenager and Anika a small girl still... want to spend more time with Esha Didi. Esha Didi make pasta for me- says Anika

15 to 16 years: Anika’s Didi is motivating Anika to be focused and determined to excel.

Best gift for life embracing Nam myoho renge kyo.. she chants for great boards result and she aces it. Hurrah!

Not to forget Vampire Diaries Netflix Binge watching.. in love with Sherlock Holmes and Suits..My Lil Paris Hilton is now Hermione Jean Granger ( aka Harry Potter fame).

Her favorite actor is some... very difficult spelling ... Ian Somerhalder

Poor Esha - boards over yeah!! blends with lockdown - no respite...

Reading books and more books - her favorite book Becoming Michelle Obama.

My little Paris Hilton is growing taller to read taller books and quotes Michelle Obama on and off to her mummy...“I hope to be exactly like my own mother though not so at all like her at all...,

Hurraaahhh the dreaded Class 10th boards Lil Esha now competitive ; burning Night oil day and night Yesss she aced it she aced it... Aaka sends Gulab Jamun just as Results downloaded...

Nana panicking; Naani trying varied devices to download the result.. bingo SMS arrives the Ace result...Aaka Mausi joins in a dance jig in the evening...

Studying during the day and karoaking with her new mike in the night.. striving for perfection to every song she sings ... not sharing with anyone.. Nah ! It’s not perfect enough to be shared ...

Challenged by her mummy to dance like AlayaF- yeah she does accept the challenge and yet again had fun making her new video jig..

Hazel & Yashica besties forever ! Making new friends; deepening bonds of friendships.....all friends’ late night Zoom calls and socials - the joy; the laughter.. my lil Paris Hilton is now a debating Teenager - bubbling with loads of aspirations and dreams.

To many more trips to Zara, Mango and H&Ms with you...May you always dress the best and look like an angel from heaven as beautiful as my lil Eshu..

Your eyes sparkle with many dreams with focused goals - shhh don’t say it out...

Happy birthday My l’il Paris Hilton you deserve the best in life... look forward to you leaping ahead in life - I would keep looking from here... Cheers to many good days and also to some not so good days - All of universe will manifest to make you stronger and better human being each day as it goes.

Expect the best out of yourself; you deserve extraordinary hence first shape up to be extraordinary. Have a big heart for everyone. Be compassionate And courage to make your dreams come true.. live life to the fullest yet strive for excellence in everything you do..Dream big and live life like a Disney princess!

Your Proud Mother of 16 years

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theliterateape · 4 years

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The House on Deer Creek Road: Part 1

By J. L. Thurston

It was the best and the worst three days of my life. It was the best because I felt like a good mother for the first time. It was the best because I was falling in love for the first time. It was the worst because, well, you know why. That’s why you’re here. To know the worst of it.

First thing you need to know about me is I gave up my baby when she was two weeks old. No, that’s the second thing you need to know. The first thing is there’s something wrong with me. I was born under a bad sign. That’s what my mother and my aunt said. But Mrs. Jones says I’m probably on the spectrum. She’s my landlady. I rented the space above her garage until she got put in the nursing home and her sweaty son kicked me out. When that happened, my mom died. Oh, that’s not a bad thing. I barely knew my mom. She was someone who came over on birthdays and the rare occasion. I think that’s why there’s something wrong with me. My mother is why I’m all messed up. She had three kids and we all turned out crazy, so what does that tell you?

I was raised by Aunt Pat, my mom’s twin sister. They’re alike in a lot of ways but different in the most important way. Alike in that they both practiced witchcraft and had childhoods more messed up than mine. Different in that my mother was a lunatic shut-in and Aunt Pat was warm and kind and raised children that weren’t hers. That’s why I left my baby with her. I thought she’d raise my baby better than I could.

I didn’t mean to have a baby. It just sort of happened. I know what causes such things, I’m not stupid. Sometimes I meet a guy and we have sex. It’s just a need like eating, drinking, sleeping. But I don’t connect with people. And when Jane was born, I didn’t connect with her, either. I like to be quiet, and sit in the quiet, and not talk. Jane just wanted to cry all day and all night. I was totally useless to her. I knew I wouldn’t be a good mom. But, even after I tried to make things right, I still never got the chance to be Jane’s mother.

That’s the worst of it. But I’m getting ahead of myself.

When my mom died, she left me her house. An old two-story shell in Porter, Illinois but you know that. You’ve been there. When people tell me they’ve visited the house where it happened, they often talk about the rust running from the gutters like blood dripping down the stained brown siding. The broken shutters, the way the house looks right back at you. And, you know, the other things.

What I don’t hear people comment on is the way the gravel driveway seems to curl around so when you drive up it’s like you’re spiraling down a drain. No one mentions the surrounding woodland. You’ve been there, you saw the forest, but did you notice when you’re standing in the yard you don’t hear a single bird or cricket? All living things creep around like they’re afraid of waking up the house. Maybe no one else ever noticed those things. But I did.

That house became mine right around the same time Mrs. Jones’ angry, sweaty son kicked me out and I thought, you know what, that was meant to be. I took it as a sign that I was supposed to make some changes. There was one change I wanted to make since the day I gave up my baby. I had a chance to be a better mother than the one I’d been given. I could raise my daughter right. With the house, I had this once chance to start a new life for me and my daughter.

So, I called Aunt Pat and asked for my baby back. She told me she’d let me come take her when I was all settled in. My first day at the house on Deer Creek Road was spent preparing for my new life. I brought in my few possessions, still packed in cardboard boxes, in the living room. I situated the baby’s room with the few things I had for her. Then I spent the afternoon at Aunt Pat’s, getting reacquainted with baby Jane.

I don’t know if you have kids. If you remember what it felt like just before that first kid came along, you might know a little how I felt. Aunt Pat must have sensed how lost I was, but how bad I wanted to make it work. She showed me some basics. The car seat was also a carrier, but I shouldn’t leave her in it for too long. She could eat some things, but not all things, and the things that were okay were in a shopping bag. I practiced folding and unfolding the stroller because it was a lot harder than it looked. When she cried, I had to go through Aunt Pat’s approved checklist of needs.

1. Does she need a clean diaper?

2. Is she hungry?

3. Does she just need to cuddle?

4. When all else fails, give her a pacifier.

5. If all that fails, call Aunt Pat.

The sun was going down as I pulled up to the house on Deer Creek Road. My dog, Bones, was in the back of the truck, his long white fur blowing in the breeze, tongue lolled out like a little pink flag. I had a bunch of baby supplies from Aunt Pat, and, of course, my baby.

I got Jane unloaded and brought everything inside. Everything inside except Bones. He had sat in the truck all morning, which didn’t bother me because I had been in and out all day, but now that we were in for the night, I wanted my dog by my side. No matter what I did, how sweetly I begged, Bones wouldn’t come inside. I could tell he wanted to tell me something, but I was too tired to consider what his problem was.

That was the first night we stayed in the house. That’s when it began.

***

At three months old, baby Jane was still not old enough to sleep through the night. I figured it was my fault. I couldn’t afford a crib, so she was sleeping just on the crib mattress. She had blankets, but that did not seem to please her. She cried for formula, she cried for a fresh diaper, she cried for formula again. I was up more than I was down, which was fine because all my mom’s furniture was still in the house and at first I figured it'd be okay because I don’t own furniture, but it turns out I don’t like living with a dead lady’s stuff. Long story short, I was sleeping on the floor sandwiched between two of my blankets. I didn’t mind the opportunities to get up and stretch.

The worst part was that Jane’s crying and the horribly hard floor were not the things that kept me awake most of the night. It was the creak, creak, creak from the attic. I was ready to ignore it at midnight and at two, but by three in the morning I was getting concerned. A cold thought occurred to me.

What if someone was up there?

A cold thought like that is not a thing that I can ignore. Once a thought like that gets in my head, I have to do something about it or I won’t be able to think about anything else, let alone sleep.

I crept into the living room and found my old baseball bat, bought and kept solely for the purpose of protection. All the while, the creak, creak, creaking commenced. The cold baseball bat felt heavy in my fingers. Creak, creak, creak. I remembered the days in phys. ed. The satisfying smack of the bat hitting a ball. Creak, creak, creak, BOOM!

Bones began to bark like mad outside. Jane began to scream. I froze downstairs in the living room.

You’ve been in the house. You know the layout. The main floor has the living room, dining room, foyer, entry hall- that’s where the stain was- kitchen, and bathroom. All the bedrooms are upstairs and the door to get to the attic stairs is closest to Jane’s bedroom door. Jane was between me and whatever was in the attic. Totally helpless and alone. I knew I had to go up and protect her, but I was frozen.

Breathing helped me move my legs. Breathe in, step forward, breath out, squeeze the baseball bat. I made it up the stairs. I made it through the dark hallway to the attic door. It took several more breaths before I could open the narrow door, and even more before I could climb the creaking stairs.

I drifted in the room, one hand gripping the bat, the other arm swaying around, fingers outstretched for the string. I must have knocked down thirty spider webs before I found it. Pulling the string sent the hanging light bulb swinging back and forth like a pendulum. Shadows were cast around the room, dancing and throwing confusion around an attic full of boxes.

All I could see up there were boxes and boxes of junk. Little pieces of my mother’s life stored and left behind. There was no sign of a person. A few startled spiders crawled up into their hidey holes.

The source of the boom appeared to be a couple boxes formerly stacked too high. They lay crushed and defeated on the attic floor, their contents splayed out in all directions. Whatever had caused them to fall could have simply been gravity over time, but that seemed unlikely. I was called away from my investigation by Jane’s screaming. She needed number three and number four on Aunt Pat’s list. Cuddles and a pacifier.

When I was satisfied that she was sleeping once more, I went back to the attic and inspected the mess. I still gripped my baseball bat with one hand, but I didn’t think I’d need it.

The spilled contents of the boxes were made mostly of broken candles, bundles of dried herbs, and what appeared to be a collection of rocks. Among the mess was a single photograph wrapped in twine.

Bind with twine, bind to be mine.

I unwrapped the twine carefully. Unbind slow, they’ll never know. Not that I practiced, but I like being careful.

The picture was my mother and me when I was little. We were at the kitchen table at Aunt Pat’s. A birthday cake was sitting between us. The smoke from the blown-out candles curled between my mother’s hollow face and my somber one. She was bone-thin, like a skeleton. Her black eyes cast down on me, stricken with a look of pure hunger.

I felt a chill run down my spine. My body reacted the way it always did when I saw my mother’s face. My guts twisted, nausea soured my mouth, and I was compelled to locate the nearest closet to shut myself in.

I dropped the picture and let it drift to the floor. I returned to my blankets in my bedroom across the hall from Jane. I got another hour of sleep before she began crying again. Number one on Aunt Pat’s list.

Return for Part Two: Day Two in the House on Deer Creek Road

#Fiction #Haunted House #October #Halloween #Witchcraft #J. L. Thurston

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toytalesindia-blog · 4 years

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The Top 5 Baby High Chair in India- Review, and Comparison

Introduction to Baby High Chair

A Baby High Chair, as the name suggests, is essentially a baby chair with the seat raised a fair distance from ground so that an adult can feed the babies from a standing position. Every baby has a unique growth chart, They grow at their own pace. No two babies are similar but generally, most babies start sitting upright around 6 months of age. Again, do not worry if your baby hasn't started sitting upright, It will soon. The characteristic of a baby high chair is the wide base for stability and a food tray attached to the arms of the chair. A typical High chair looks like the image below.

A Typical Wooden Baby High Chair

Why Buy A Baby High Chair?

Now, Let's come to the most important question of why? Why is it that your child requires a baby high chair? What benefits would it bring to you and your child. We are assuming that your child is probably between 4-5 months of age as of today ( that's why you are interested in buying a high chair, isn't it). You must have spent the last 3-4 months pinned to the bed along with your child and you must be sick of it. More so your baby is now ready or soon will be, to sit up and start eating solid food. A high chair allows the baby to transition smoothly into a very major milestone of her life. Starting Solid Diet. Baby High Chair will allow the mother to free up her hands and get some much-needed rest. A high chair will also allow the baby to sit in the kitchen where parents could work and keep an eye on their baby. This arrangement helps in social development for the child and the parents can also work stress-free in the kitchen or drawing-room. Imagine all this freedom with a High Chair! :)

When To Buy A Baby High Chair?

A baby typically starts sitting upright around 4-6 months of age but she isn't ready for the baby high chair yet. There are some major milestones that the baby needs to cross before it is safe to sit in a baby chair. The baby should display: Good head controlability to sit upright with some support from back and frontFairly good stability control when seatedEvery high chair manufacturer has a minimum age recommendation, generally 6 months6 months is generally a good starting time but every kid is different, place the child in a high chair when you feel she is ready. Mom knows best.

Features of a good High Chair

Safe Your first and foremost concern while buying a Baby high chair should be the safety of the child. Do not compromise safety because of price. Get a chair that has good reviews and that which has a wide base, seat belt for the baby and arms and back support. Wobbly chairs, bad craftsmanship are a big no-no. Comfortable- Padded Seat You would want the chair to be comfortable simply because the baby would cry if it isn't. If you have a wooden chair then make sure you use a cushion for baby's bum and back. Durable You would probably be using the baby chair at least for 2 years so you would want it to be well made and solid. Maybe you could keep it for your next kid so choosing a durable, solid chair is important. Quality Quality of the Craftsmanship and the materials used in the chair is also very important. Thus it is always advised to buy from a well-known brand that is tried and tested. Price A good quality product will always cost more, It is up to you to decide which product is the right fit for you. We don't advocate that expensive is always the best choice but it is definitely important for you to understand the reason for the price difference. Easy To Clean Baby's are messy eaters. They will make a mess and surprisingly you will enjoy it. :) There will be plenty of spills, crumbs splatters to take care of. Choose a chair that is easy to clean. The material of the chair should be fast drying, non greasy and stain proof. Check if a chair has removable parts which can be taken apart and easily cleaned. Utility food tray etc. All baby high chairs would have a food tray. What you do need to check is if the food tray is adjustable, removable, washable and sturdy. Space Baby High Chairs with wheels are very convenient. Depending upon the space you have, it is advisable to get a high chair that can be easily folded or one that has wheels. (Don't worry the wheels have brakes are safe. ) This will help you to store the chair in a corner and pull out when you have to use it.

Safety Tips for using Baby High Chair

Never Ever leave the baby unattended in a high chairBefore placing the baby in a high chair always take a look at the chair and touch it to make sure everything is all rightAlways use the safety harness to strap the babyMake sure the baby cannot hold onto a table etc. and tip over. Keep the baby within your reach always. Do not place the chair on wet surfaces, near electrical points or anywhere near sharp objects.

The Bestselling High Chairs in India

We have done some research and chosen the top 5 baby high chairs that sell online. We may or may not be correct but we've made every effort to provide you with the best options. This will at least give you a good point to know what you are looking for. 1. Fisher-Price 4-in-1 Highchair

Fisher-Price 4-in-1 Highchair This is one of our favourite baby high chairs. Features Fisher-Price is a trusted brand and a multinational company so quality is assured.The chair is 4 in 1 use it can be used as a baby high chair, feeding chair & stool, Toddler booster seat and as a learning table and chair. It grows with your child. The chair is fold-able so can be easily storedThe chair is made up of Non-toxic material so food spills are no problems3 point restraint means the kid is safely fastened at all times although a five-point harness would have been great. In the high chair mode, there is plenty of storage space where you can store baby's stuff like bibs, napkins and bottles etc.Dishwasher safe feeding tray means you can easily clean itWashable seat pads so cleanliness could be maintained Where to buy? You can buy this chair on Amazon here Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5biyEemIpYw Fisher-Price 4-in-1 Highchair 2. R for Rabbit Marshmallow Feeding High Chair

R for Rabbit Marshmallow Feeding High Chair Features EN14988 Safety Certified - one of the most stringent safety certification defined by European StandardsHigh-Quality Folding chair so can be stowed away easily when not in useAdjustable & removable double meal tray means it can be easily cleaned after a messy meal7 level height adjustable seats mean as your child grows so does the chair3 recline modes with adjustable footrests provide maximum comfort to the babyEasy to clean chair Nap recline mode available which means baby can sleep easily in the chair5 point harness safety system is the best in the market The chair promises adequate padding and the best posture angleThe chair has wheels so can be easily moved Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3CRsvaM7UQ R for Rabbit Marshmallow Feeding High Chair Where to buy? You can buy this chair on Amazon here 3. LuvLap 3 in 1 Convertible Baby High Chair

LuvLap 3 in 1 Convertible Baby High Chair Features European Standard EN 14988 certified. This is a very stringent European standard certification for Baby High ChairsLuvlap is an Indian company3 in1 configuration: Baby high chair, baby chair with feeding tray, study table and chairAnti-tipping design makes it safe for the childNon-slip designComfortable backrest design for the baby5 point safety harnessRemovable food trayCushioned seat2 level height adjustable seatNo Recliner- Only stiff back Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfd9jtBLNaY LuvLap 3 in 1 Convertible Baby High Chair Where to buy? You can buy this chair on Amazon here 4. Syga High Chair for Baby Kids

SYGA High Chair for Baby Kids Features 3 in 1 design- High chair, normal chair, booster seatStain-resistant, durable, easy to remove seat can be easily cleaned with a damp clothValue for Money optionSyga is an Indian CompanyIncludes dishwasher safe food tray with socketThe chair has a wheel or a cushion base optionA thickened steel support frameDouble buckle safety belt designThe food tray is made up of safe environment-friendly PP material Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rk_Hp038srA Syga High Chair for Baby Kids Where to buy? You can buy this chair on Amazon Here 5. Chicco Polly Easy Highchair - Birdland

Chicco Polly Easy Highchair Features Probably the best looking baby High chair in the market. The Birdland theme will definitely attract your babyIf budget is not a concern then we highly recommend this beautiful chair from ChiccoChicco is a trusted brand name known for its quality baby productsThis is a very highly rated baby high chair Choose from 7 different height options depending upon the age of the child4 rotating and rotatable wheels for easy manoeuvrabilityLarge seat with a soft cushion for the comfort of the babyCaution: This product is not for everyone, it is a little expensiveYour child will be completely comfortable in this seat Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhbJ7w2Wsvw Chicco Polly Easy Highchair - Birdland Where to buy? You can buy this amazing chair on Amazon here

Comparison of the Top 5 Baby High Chair in India

Also, see our post on the bestselling Luvlap strollers in India, a review and comparison It is an informative post that will help you choose the best stroller for your baby. Read the full article

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heathergoffrier · 4 years

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10 Scriptures On Contentment That Will Encourage New Moms

As a new mom, do you ever envy others whose lives are more carefree? I did. Don't miss my fav scriptures on contentment plus a free email challenge! Learn more here: START MY 5-DAY CHALLENGE

The last time I flew with my family, I sat helpless as a tiny human ate, wiggled, and climbed all over me for 2.5 hours in a 2x2 foot space. In other words, I was flying with a lap infant. In the moments where I could look away from my child, I found myself peering enviously up the aisle at a woman watching a movie. A grown-up movie. She looked so relaxed, at peace, and happy. My staring was interrupted by the baby clamoring for something to chew on and hubby asking for the snack bag. He was across the aisle attempting to pacify our oldest and prevent our toddler from climbing on the seats and screaming. I wondered how long it would be until we could read a magazine on a flight, or watch an actual (grown-up) movie with no one climbing on top of us or badgering us for treats.

Finding Contentment When It Doesn't Seem Available

It's not that I wish I didn't have kids or that I'm discontent with my life. But I was a bit discontented with that moment, that flight. Sometimes I need a reminder that I'm in a phase that's really not about my own comfort. And that my life is not always about the simple pleasures of grown-up birthday parties, traveling with ease and going where I please (like when I'm house-bound during nap time or a global health crisis). It's normal to want a bit of my freedom back for a few minutes. One kid-free flight.A night away from the kids.An evening at home where they (who shall not be named) don't scream at the top of their lungs because they want Cheerios when they just had Cheerios 5 minutes ago as their pre-bedtime snack. For the love. RELATED: 20 MOM AFFIRMATIONS AND SCRIPTURES TO COUNTER NEGATIVE THOUGHTS

I'm pretty sure we're keeping the cereal industry afloat.

Choosing Our Pain

It's healthy to get out and away from the kids and take care of yourself first once in a while. But when I'm with them, sometimes I need to remember that not everything worthwhile is easy. Sometimes we have to, as this article from Quartz states, "choose our pain." Joy in life isn't about chasing all the awesome things we want that those around us seem to have... The people up the airplane aisle with the "stress-free" life who can watch movies all flight long.The perfect Facebook and Instagram posts.Other moms who seem to have it all together while I don't feel a good mother at all. If I spend my time wanting what other people have, I'll miss what's right in front of me. How many times have you heard an empty-nest mom say, "I miss those days!" or "The time goes by so fast! Enjoy it while you can." And we all roll our eyes a bit and think, you must be forgetting how hard this is. I think the reality is that joy is actually possible DURING the hard times. Peace is available IN THE MIDST of difficulty. Life is bittersweet. It's rarely all joy or all pain. The good comes hand in hand with the bad. But when we can turn our hearts and minds to scriptures on contentment, and think about what is true and lovely, we can experience God's peace and presence (Philippians 4:8-9). RELATED: 7 WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR WOMEN ON HOW TO THRIVE AS A MOM

My 10 Favorite Scriptures On Contentment For New Moms

I've found quite a few scriptures on contentment that help me in these moments. Even when I'm a trapped being strapped to a tiny human, if I can remember to turn to God's word, the Holy Spirit ushers me into the peace that is already ours in Christ. 1 Corinthians 7:17a "Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them." God has purpose for you to be where you are... lean into Him and inquire of Him when you question your situation. Isaiah 26:3 "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you." To learn more on how God can keep your mind (and imagination) at peace through scriptures on contentment and changing your mindset, check out my "5 Days To Positive Thinking" Email Challenge here: START MY 5-DAY CHALLENGE 1 Peter 5:6-7 "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." It's amazing what happens when He lifts our burdens of anxiety off and carries them for us! 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." In motherhood, we come face to face with our biggest weaknesses. But that awareness doesn't have to crush us. Instead, it can help us walk into the loving arms of our Father who has power over our weaknesses and the ability to redeem any mistakes we make. Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." We don't always get the big picture, but He does.

Let us rejoice today and be glad! Psalm 118:19-24 "Open for me the gates of the righteous; I will enter and give thanks to the Lord. This is the gate of the Lord through which the righteous may enter. I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation. The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad." When we focus on thankfulness, our mind can't continue to dwell on negativity. I like to think about 10 things I'm grateful for when I'm stuck in a rut and can't keep my mind of my struggles. Hebrews 13:5 "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'" He is our Provider. We can trust that what we have is enough for today. RELATED: HOW TO FIND CONTENTMENT IN GOD (AS A TIRED MOM) 1 Timothy 6:6-7 "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it." There will always people in this world who have more than us, and people who have less. If we aren't content where we are, we won't be content when we have more or less in the future. Luke 12:15 "Then he said to them, 'Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'" It's easy to be envious of what "everyone else" has, like the brand new version of the double stroller I got on Craig's List, or when I get the "got a minivan" text from an excited friend. I even have a minivan myself now, and while I love it, having it doesn't bring life. Philippians 4:12-13 "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength." Paul is an amazing example of contentment here. Even through prison, persecution and separation from friends, he realized he could be content in the power of Christ. We can too!

The "5 Days To Positive Thinking" Email Challenge

I hope you enjoyed these scriptures on contentment! To grow even stronger in your ability to focus on truth, don't miss my "5 Days To Positive Thinking" Email Challenge! You'll get tools and guidance for exchanging negativity for truth and a positive mindset! Get access below:

START MY 5-DAY CHALLENGE Read the full article

#contentment #motherhood #truth

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thethefitnessmojo-blog · 5 years

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Top 5 Best Baby Carrier 2018-2019 (Buyer's Guide)

5 Best Baby Carrier Of 2019 ( Reviews & Buyer's Guide)

If you need a best baby carrier 2019 that offers multiple positions and can be used easily from birth then check out our top 5 baby carrier list. Baby carrier gives your arms a break. Babies like being embraced in your arms best. But carrying your beloved baby around you all day is not possible unless you have a bunch of minions to do y our work or arms of steel. That’s where the best baby carrier comes really handy. Babies love being close to mom or dad, feeling the warm comfort of their chest and the gentle rhythm of their breathing and heartbeat. But, unless you're Ronda Rousey or Mark Wahlberg, your arms and shoulders will get very tired of carrying a growing baby all day. That's where the soft structure baby carrier comes in! Each year, there are several new participants in the baby carrier market, making it more difficult to make an informed decision about which ones are best for you and your baby. Our Recommendation For Best Baby Carrier is LILLEBaby Complete All-Season Baby Carrier. Checkout Best Baby Carriers

Top 5 Best Baby Carrier 2018-2019 Reviews

1. LILLEBaby Complete All-Season Baby Carrier.

It is a SIX-Position, 360° Ergonomic Baby & Child Carrier by LILLEbaby - The COMPLETE All Seasons (Stone). The Lillebaby Complete baby carriers combine more transport positions, last longer and include more features than any other baby carrier. The Original line features a sturdy cotton canvas. It Includes all transport positions without the need of a baby insert: Frontal-fetal, Frontal-infant, Frontal-outward, Frontal-Infantile, Hip, and Rear. The COMPLETE grows with your child during all the years of baby use, from 7 lbs to 45 lbs. The patented cupped seat adjusts to keep the babysitting ergonomically in all six transport positions at each stage of development. So comfortable that your baby will fall asleep. Provides additional support for the neck and back and keeps babies taller safely in the baby carrier. The adjustable width gently cradles the baby's head. Elastic straps provide support while allowing movement and easy adjustment. The lumbar Support increases comfort maintains a healthy posture and alignment and prevents tension of the lower back. Combined with an extra strong waist belt to maximize the comfort of parents. Large storage pocket with zipper, plus easy-access pocket to store the hood and essential items. The new two-way strap of this Lillebaby carrier allows the user to wear the "knapsack style" or with the crossed straps on the back. The double adjustment buckles simplify breastfeeding and adjust the straps on the fly. The wide shoulder straps with waist belt evenly distribute the weight of the baby Key features Six positions of ergonomic transport Provide great lumbar support New two-way strap and pockets Extreme and extensive torque Wide shoulder straps with a waist belt. Removable bedroom camera for extra protection Check Price at Amazon.com 2. Ergobaby 360 All Carry Positions Baby Carrier

This best Baby Carrier offers you and your child maximum comfort and flexibility while carrying your child in any transport position. With its unique and structured seat, the versatile Ergobaby 360 baby carrier keeps the baby in an ergonomic position in all transport positions. Its easy to adjust bucket seat supports your baby in an ergonomic natural 'M' position in all carries positions from baby to toddler. Easily adjusts to fit multiple wearers from petite to larger body types (waistband adjusts 26-52”, shoulder straps 28-46"). Face baby in or out. Wear on the hip or back as baby grows (~4-36 months/12-33lbs or start with newborn infant insert ~0-4Months/7-12lbs, sold separately). Exceptional lower back support with wide wraparound waistband maximizes comfort especially post C-section. Extra padded shoulder straps help evenly distribute your baby’s weight. Easy breastfeeding & tuckaway babyhood for sun & wind protection. Machine Washable & 100% premium cotton. Key Features Comfortable for you & your baby All the carry positions you need Fits you & your partner We considered every detail Easily adjust to your growing baby Easy to clean quality materials Check Price at Amazon.com

3. BOBA 4G Baby Carrier.

The BOBA operator was at the top of the list of best baby carriers and for some good reasons. It is comfortable, elegant, durable, very well made and reliable. The thick belt tends to support most of the weight of the child so that the shoulders do not become too painful, with a good uniform distribution around the body. We also liked that the belt has two adjustment points, which helps a lot to match the fit around the waist. It also has adjustments to the shoulder straps just under the armpits, which helps you customize the fit even when you wear your baby. Some of the advantages of BOBA compared to ERGO is that it includes a child insert, supports from £ 7 to £ 45 (like the LILLEBaby), and has a small zippered pocket along the waist. Although working with a child insert is a little inconvenient compared to having it integrated into the system. It also includes small straps for the feet (stirrups) to support tired legs and falls. Furthermore, we find that the belt adjustment range is very wide and fits a wider range of body shapes and sizes. Therefore, this service provider has, in fact, some advantages over ERGO. So, why is it here on the list? Well, in our tests, most mothers agreed that ERGO was just more comfortable for mum, and they seemed a little more supportive of the baby. This does not mean that this is not a convenient carrier because it is certainly. In our opinion, it is not as comfortable as the ERGO. Like the others, it is available in a lot of beautiful colors and patterns. Key Feature: Made with 100% cotton The 4G baby carrier will take your little one from infancy to toddler Free from any potential harmful materials or dyes Integrated infant insert with 2 positions Use as a front carrier from 7-25 pounds and front or back carrier from 25-45 pounds Check Price at Amazon.com 4. TULA Ergonomic Baby Carrier. The TULA series is surely one of the most adorable, elegant and modern baby carriers on the market. It is also quite comfortable, has a simple design and is light. We liked the front velcro pocket, although it was a bit difficult to access mothers with shorter arms or older children. You can use from 15 to 45 pounds, offering you a decent upper range but a very restrictive low range.

Basically, you can not use this baby product until the baby has a few months unless you purchase the baby insert separately. But once you use it, you and your child will surely love it! The shoulder straps are very padded and comfortable, the supports for the thighs and legs of the child are softly padded, the hood is a good size and removable, and its simplicity makes it very easy to wear and take off. However, while the padding of the child's thigh/leg is a nice touch, keep in mind that that area is not adjustable as in our best options. So there will be a weakness when your child fits perfectly, but soon it will be too much wide and perhaps a little uncomfortable for the child. After about an hour, many of our tested mothers complained of back pain and wanted to go back to LILLEBaby with crossed straps and lumbar support, or with the ERGO. They also noticed that it does not have good circulation and they thought it might benefit from some 3D meshes for better airflow. In general, this is a great supplier with some basic limitations. For the price, we expected it to be a real winner, and we walked away thinking it was great, but not as much as the others above it. It is available in many beautiful colors and designs, which embarrasses many other operators. Key Feature: 100% Cotton Dual-adjustment padded straps Ergonomic M-position seat Multiple ergonomic positions Multiple adjustment capabilities to find your perfect fit Wide padded waistband provides superior comfort It can be used from 18 months to 4+ years old and between 25 - 60 pounds Check Price 5. BabyBjorn Original Baby Carrier.

The BabyBjorn Original baby carrier is a two-position baby carrier because your baby can be faced from birth (3.5 kg) or facing out when the neck is strong enough (from 3 months). It is suitable from birth. The BabyBjörn® Original baby carrier is designed to make sure you are as small as possible when in use. It is a small and easy to use. During the first few months, your child needs a lot of physical contacts. Baby Carrier Original is a small support that you can quickly put on and take off to carry your child for short periods, both at home and outdoors. If your child falls asleep, simply unfasten the entire baby carrier and put your sleeping baby down. Original baby carrier takes up little space and can be easily packed in a diaper bag or placed under the stroller. BABYBJÖRN baby carriers are easy to use. The best baby product keeps the child in an upright position, which keeps the airways free, allows the legs and arms to move freely and provides good support for the neck and the head. We develop all our baby carriers in close collaboration with medical specialists such as infant orthopedic and neonatal doctors. You should never worry about carrying your baby in a BABYBJÖRN baby carrier. Good head support is critical for the first five months until the child's muscles have developed enough to keep the head upright. Original Baby Carrier with a robust and adjustable support for the baby's head and neck. Choose whether to bring the child inward or outward. You can use the outward facing position when the child reaches about 5 months. Key Features • Small and easy to use. • Sturdy, adjustable head support • Designed with the littlest ones in mind • Easy-on, easy-off • Carry on the front, facing in or facing out • Child-friendly materials Buy From Amazon Related Post: Best Baby Strollers 2018-2019 Best Baby Cribs 2018-2019 Best baby swings 2018-2019 Best Convertible Car Seat 2018-2019 Read the full article

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buttramnyc · 5 years

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Italy 2018 Part I

Italy, October, 2018

The crescent moon sits in Orion’s back pocket.

Stars from my bedroom window celebrate the first day in Ponti Agli Stolli, The last 24 hours have been a whirlwind of subways, TSA lines, taxis, and jets. The highlight: watching Taylor, Deborah and Mary sprint to make our plane from Paris to Florence.

After a tour of the surrounding area (first hint of the recurring theme, “Lost in Italy!”) we find the village of Ponti Agli Stolli. It’s tiny. There’s a bridge and a river, one store, one restaurant, and that’s it. (Rather like growing up in Oak Grove, TX). Mary navigates down a steep drive to the parking lot. We explore our first digs, the Mill House, guided by Cordelia, a Polish woman who married an Italian. She speaks limited English. We “kinda” get what she’s telling us about heat, gas, etc. Nesting goes into full swing. The local store is closed for the day (siesta at 2:30pm). Off to Greve for food and a delicious meal on the main piazza. We eat, find the grocery store and stock up on breakfast food.

One ritual emerges early on: the trading of Euros among four travelers (keeping our money straight). The “funny money” (i.e., Euros) is serious. The dollar is not strong. One Euro equals $1.20 (depending on the day). The exchange rate is hard to wrap my head around but slowly I get it, Euros fly from my pockets at an alarming rate!

At lunch, Taylor shares the story of when my ultra-sophisticated friend (and employer at “Musical America,” Charlotte Gilbert, read his early play and reported back, “He’s no Arthur Miller.” This, at the tender age of 26, shook his confidence. Charlotte’s long gone to heaven and Taylor has begun writing again. Underlying lesson, “Don’t let anyone’s critique stop you from writing!” Charlotte gave me a day job for several years AND taught me how to drink scotch. Was she the best influence on Taylor or me? Of course, she was! She introduced us to the Metropolitan Opera with free tickets to our first opera, Madama Butterfly.

The Mill House is chilly. Mary and I go on a reconnaissance mission to “borrow” firewood. We score. Coming down the hill, we hear Taylor and Deborah standing in front of the house, whispering. Taylor has accidentally locked us out of our house, grabbing the car key instead of the house key. Hmmmm. Breaking into the Mill House is impossible. It’s a fortress! We text Cordelia for help and await our fate. Mary and Deborah head up the hill to the restaurant. We hear sounds of joy! They meet up with the sweetest Italian angel who saves us from sleeping in our rental car, a Ford Focus. The neighbor has a key to the house. “Did he hear us bemoaning our fate, or did Cordelia (our greeter) text him?” We will never know. What we do know is that Deborah kissed his wrinkled face multiple times.

Among Taylor quotes, Van Morrison: “No gurus, no method, no teacher. Just you and me and nature in the garden.”

Mary and Deborah do a bit of gardening in the patio. Mary upsets a wasp nest under the umbrella. “Run away!” Pass around sprigs of fresh rosemary to open our sinuses. Butterflies play tag. The leaves in the breeze make a soothing sound. Taylor says the river is low.

Looking at the gorge below us, I think of WWII soldiers hearing these same sounds before taking this small village from the Fascists and Nazis. The hill towns, how costly the fighting must have been. Towns perched on hilltops. Who has to charge up the hill? Who were the Italians that Mussolini made sense to them? Who are we that Donald Trump makes sense to us?

We trade stories of children, lost loves, parents gone to heaven. Mary’s story of her father’s indoctrination in his third nursing home. Mary calms him, “We own this place, daddy.” He replies, “Well, that’s all right, Baby.” Deborah’s story of Kevin the Plumber who took part in subterfuge to make repairs for, “Jackie,” her mom.

I would try to find a way to get down to the gorge and wade in the water but there are places to go!

Volpaia.

So beautiful! High, high, sitting on an even steeper hill, it boasts a sweet church (the first of many, many Chiesas). I explore a cemetery and greet hikers (aged 4 to 40). In the piazza, the sweetest 18-month old toddler, adorable in her pink sneakers and jacket, riding in her pink stroller, loved by all: the mother, the aunt, the grandmother, the great grandmother, the uncle, the papa, all eating, drinking wine. Here’s the kicker, the little girl’s name is Gaea, the namesake of my dearly departed friend, Gaetana Sibilio (“Tana”). I learn in my travels, Gaea is a popular Italian name. I share stories of June Havoc and Gypsy Rose Lee and Tana. I wonder how in hell Gypsy and June navigated these narrow Italian roads in Gypsy’s purple Rolls Royce! (They toured Italy in the early 1950’s, much like Hemingway did on his grand tours). Better to have a Fiat or a Ford Focus. We lunched at an outdoor trattoria Bar Ucci Wine Bar. Greeted by the owner Paola Barucci, she turned us over to a handsome young waiter. (All the waiters in Italy are handsome/pretty.)

Magical village, Volpaia!

Back home (after a few wrong turns! Where, oh, where is that turn off to Ponti Agli Stolli), we snuggle in but it’s chilly. Cordelia’s instructions for heat are no help. Aha! More firewood capers. A fine pack of thieves, Mary stumbles and falls during our hasty getaway and we leave her on the street. (Back in the USA, I was told that stealing firewood is a hanging offense in Italy.) Mary has a sizable bruise on her knee but no lasting damage!

Siena madness!

Mary speeds over the Tuscany hills, we see a fox out for a morning stroll (Mary missed it by a mile). Yes! We find Siena (more wrong turns even with our new ally, the GPS, dubbed “Marsha”). Taylor directed Mary to “Stay near the city walls!” Italian cities are surrounded by stone walls, many begun by the Etruscans and added to by the Romans and on and on. Mary edges our Ford Focus through streets filled with pedestrians, bikers, cars. It’s crowded! I muse to myself, “How will we drive out of Siena?” Siena reminds me of Venice without the canals, the streets are filled with small shops (touristy) intermixed with stylish fabrics and cosmetics, designer jewelry, a music school, it’s all here. There’s a grand piano in the music school. I decide NOT to play it. An older (!) woman in a wheelchair is pushed around by her son (?). Her eyebrows have been drawn onto her forehead. A fair amount of jewelry and scarves.

Sitting by the Sienna Piazza, the Campo, I watch a young mother change her baby girl’s diaper on the street. The baby’s “tush” must be chilly in the spotty sunlight. Children tumble and play, wrestling their mother down to the stone piazza, loving the brisk weather. Boys and girls chase pigeons, surprise! The wind picks up. Hemingway was here! Michelangelo was here! June was here!

Taylor and I tour frescos The Allegory of Good and Bad Government (circa 1340) in Palazzo Pubblico. We all visit the magnificent Duomo. Breathtaking. The black plague sent everyone flocking to religion, to find some meaning to losing 3/5 of the city to the “cimitaires.” Small wonder Italian children are so cherished! (Ah, but they should be everywhere, even in immigrant caravans.) No lack of saints, martyrs, popes, cardinals in Italy: all the subjects of religious adoration. Walking through the Duomo, I reflect on today’s sexual abuse scandals. How many innocents were sacrificed across the massive altars late at night? I am periodically overwhelmed by the religious hypocrisy. So much money!!!!

Our time in Siena is too brief. Our hard-won parking spot is time sensitive and it’s getting dark! I drive us out of Siena in search of A2. (It’s a freeway but we’re headed in the wrong direction.) With the help of “Marsha,” Deborah and a friendly and handsome blue-eyed Sienese van driver, we recover, head back over the hills toward Castellino and Greve.

Somewhere in here, we tour the Vignamaggio winery where Mona Lisa stayed and Leonardo da Vinci hung out as a young man. Legend has it, it’s where the artist drew his first sketches of the demur beauty. A tour of the winery, a delicious meal, and back down the ultra-steep hill toward Greve, finally getting the turn right to Ponti Agli Stolli. We spot a second fox AND a young wild boar (Cinghiale in Italian).

The next morning, it’s wet. We rest. All quiet except for the sound of the river bed and the gentle rainfall. “May all beings with no exception be happy.” Namaste! “Blessed is he who leaves.” Olga Tokarczuk

Arezzo via the train!

To find the train station, we ask a sweet young woman who tails us, gesturing us to the correct turn off for the station! We (park in what I now believe was an illegal parking space) in Figline Valdarno and buy tickets from what must be the surliest ticket seller in Italy. Luckily, we catch the train in the right direction and, voila, we are in Arezzo’s antiques street fair. Another beautiful Chiesa, Basilico San Domenico at the tail-end of Mass. Again, lovely singing. The altar boasts the saddest crucifix ever by Cimabue. To the Arezzo Duomo, no comparison to Siena, but we catch another tail-end of Mass. Lunch in the piazza and to the Roman amphitheater. All the museums in Italy are free on Sunday? This does not hold true for Florence! The finale, the Basilica of San Francesco with the frescos marking the journey of the “true cross.” For almost all the train ride back to Figline Valdarno, I am convinced we are moving in the wrong direction! Hallelujah, I was wrong!

Freezing in the Mill Mountain house this night. I wake with a sore throat. Crap!!!! Hard to rest but in the early morning window, there is Orion holding hope for sunshine the next day. Money begins to cause me concern… why did I think the dollar was strong? It’s not! “Ah, well.”

We spend the next day exploring another hilltop town, Montefiorelle. WAY up, one-way streets getting there, missing the turn off. Lost in Italy theme underscoring! (Must be lost at least once a day.) Taylor and I catch the end of Mass at the Greve Chiesa. Beautiful voices (all girls). We discuss religion, always fascinating! After a late lunch of deadly lentil soup with leeks, we head back up the hill to Montefiorelle at night! We are four of a total of six diners who have returned to the hilltop (but we are stuffed from the soup). Taylor was the only one not affected by the soup. We return because Deborah pined to sit close to a working fireplace. My capetto was yummy but, oh, brother, did I pay for overeating!

In retrospect, it’s rather jolly about traveling with hard-of-hearing people, we have no compunctions about farting away, every step we take! Walking behind us must be amusing and horrifying.

The last morning at the Mill House! I take a walk in the morning hoping to make it down to the gorge. I take the side road. An old man (older than me!) struggles along, stopping to rest periodically. I pass Cordelia walking into town. She’s coming to check us out of the Mill House! Cordelia doesn’t recognize me so I keep walking. Abandoned apartments are totally beyond repair. You could buy this villa for a song if you had a fortune to refurbish it. Two men working on the country road look up at me… “Don’t recognize this lady!” I nod, wave, and retrace my steps. Never did make it to the gorge!

Packing and moving madness! The GPS goes haywire. I’m missing some step, soooo simple, but what? We drive in circles, slowly closing in on Montepulciano… again Taylor shouts to Mary, “Stay close to the walls.”

Montepulciano!

A “hill town” is an apt description. Our hotel, Albergo Duomo, sits atop the hill. The concierge (ten years on the job) is helpful but “coolish” when we arrive. Frazzled, uncouth Americans! Slow down! Chill! But, he helps us and we retreat to our separate rooms. I fail to notice (or chose to ignore that my room is right next to the “elevator”). A brief pause and we are back out on the street!

A great lunch leaves us a bit logy and we stroll. Taylor points out the topography. Winding streets of stone. Spectacular views of the valley. On this piazza, there are chairs and we settle in next to four stunningly beautiful Italians from Roma. These “youths” (two couples) are listening to Andrea Bocelli on their I-phone. Mary asked if they know the Ed Sheeran duet with Bocelli and it’s quickly cued up. They sing along with all the songs, tossing their heads back and serenading the manicured valley below, young, sexy, and singing from their hearts. Soon, we begin to sing along, Deborah, Mary and me. A pure spiritual moment. This quartet and three ringers from the states. We sing all the greats, Celine Dion, “My Heart Will Go On,” Pavarotti’s “Nessun Dorma,” even “Ave Maria,” applauding ourselves and each other. Bird, bells, world travelers, all singing. We share fresh “biscotti,” the sun slips behind the land, and they bid us farewell, “See you tomorrow.” Perfect experience. God bless Ed Sheeran. In the distance, rain falls on the valley. I am sitting in Etruscan ruins. They built the walls (or parts of them).

I climbed the Palazzo Comunale (i.e, City Hall) and it was tight staircase! A worried young man waits for his ancient father to climb the haphazard stairs, “He insisted on coming up here.” Oy!

Sleepless night listening to the elevator open and close, AND I had a head cold. Taylor and I ask the surly concierge for directions to the “Pharmacie.” He points it out on the map. Trying a follow up question looking for common ground, “Taylor says the last time he was here, there was a cat. What happened to the cat?” He grunts a one-word reply, “Dead.”

(Nose drops. Yay! Returned the next day for more. “Cough medicine,” really good cough medicine. Score! I sipped it for the next three days… Italy has excellent cold drugs. Deborah and Mary came down with the same cold in Cortona, I shared my meds.)

Delirium: I dream of taking Beckham to the circus. No animal acts only humans and “giant slides.” He loves slides and was happy. My old buddy Kara Sekuler worked at the circus, wearing her high heels.

I live another day. I avoid the surly concierge and asked the night gate keeper to change my room for the last two nights. It happens, thanks! Much sounder sleep. We drive to Pienza. I visit the Chiesa St. Catherine, learn about stanzas (prayer rooms).

La Foce: beautiful gardens and villa that belonged to Marchesa Iris Origo, an ultra-rich lady and Anglo-American biographer and historian of international fame. She wrote two autobiographies, Images and Shadows and War in Val d'Orcia. Created farms, revitalized a community, saved WWII refugees, and built a garden for the Gods filled with plants and lemon trees. Sizable swimming pool!

Leaving, Taylor wanted to find the cemetery where the Marchesa is buried. We drive up and down the main road. No! We drive up a cow patch. No! (Mary is a force getting us out of the cow patch! There is smoke under the Focus… hot engine singes the dry grass.) An older man concentrates on watering his herb garden on the front porch, waves us off, barely raised his head, gesturing, “It’s over there. We drive up a graveled and steep hill in the back of the estate. No! One last try. We take a road to a nearby castle with Italian workmen ending their day. It’s not the cemetery, it’s closed and we aren’t the only ones looking for directions. The requisite black Mercedes with a gorgeous couple are not looking for the cemetery, they are simply lost! Again, no cemetery. The drive back to Montepulciano via Piensa, apples and cheese on the veranda.

Dipping our feet into the mineral springs of Bagno Vignoni, (Lorenzo the Magnificent and Saint Catherine bathed there) we visit with the passers-by. British girls discuss global warming and conservation, “America is bad but not like Indonesia. Poaching is bad.” That the USA is coupled with Indonesia says a lot about their perceptions of the USA.

Taylor seeks a monastery further “South, East, West, North” … I have lost all sense of direction. But with the help of “Marsha,” we wind our way up the mountain. Success. There’s a parking lot, cars in the parking lot, and signs! Two rows of cypresses leads down the hill to Monte Oliveta Maggiore, a Benedictine Abbey set in the clay hills of Tuscany. Founded in 1313 by Bernardo Tolomei (a rich man who found religion and became Saint Benedict), the cloister has frescoes of the Life of St. Benedict painted by Luca Signorelli and il Sodoma. They are masterworks of the Italian Renaissance. (Taylor tells us the Benedictine monks were appalled (Taylor’s word) because “Sodome,” (i.e, Sodom) was enamored of young men and his rendering of male “buttocks” were way too sexy. He painted a lot of horses’ rears, too. (Taylor notes Sodome fathered 30 children.) Truly, this is a glorious Chiesa, filled with art. Thirty monks live year round. They prepare the evening meal; the U-shaped table is formidable. They eat together, worship together, read in the voluminous library, and play together. In their gift shop, I buy a cross for Guy, Taylor buys honey.

We find our way back to Montepulciano via Piensa. All roads lead through Piensa. A quick visit to Tempio San Biagio, a lovely church at the foot of Montepulciano. I climb the hill back to home, the same hill that Iris Origo climbed with WWII refugee children when they were escaping La Foce and the Germans; the townspeople applauded Marchesa Iris Origo when she entered the city walls. Today, many cats greet me and the weather is perfection. Thrilling sunset!

[At Monte Oliveta Maggiore, we begin to understand the horror of Hurricane Michael. It hits Bainbridge, Georgia, hard! There are many texts, Facebook messages and phone calls to family. Everyone is safe but all suffer real property damage. Halfway around the globe, nothing to be done by the band of travelers. Deborah, Mary and Taylor are heroic in their ability to “keep a stiff upper lip” and enjoy Italy.]

Last morning in Montepulciano, I have a breakthrough with our surly concierge. Paying my room bill, he notes my zip code, Manhattan. “Do I know Joe Allen?” Yay! “Do I know Joe Allen?” “Yes,” I lie. (In theory, I know Joe Allen. I’ve eaten in his restaurant hundreds of times and he donated to Abingdon Theatre Company when my buddy Shirley Herz made the “ask.”) Suddenly, we are on common ground and he is nigh charming. He loves Manhattan, considers Joe Allen a father figure. Thank you, theater Gods!

Our exit from Montepulciano is a clean one. Phew!

fffffffffffff

0 notes

dangerouslylazydinosaur · 6 years

Text

Best Nursing Pillow: 2018’s Ultimate Buying Guide For New Mothers

Every parent wants only the best for their child – that goes without saying. However, why not get something that both you and your baby could benefit?

Yes, I’m talking about buying the best nursing pillow.

Feeding sessions are hard work – every mother knows that – so if you can do something to make it a lot less frustrating, why wouldn’t you?

If you’re interested in learning more, keep on reading!

Benefits Of Using A Nursing Pillow & Why You Need One

You might be thinking:

Women have breastfed children for thousands of years, none of them having the option of using a nursing pillow – and they did just fine. So, why would I need one?

It’s a legitimate question – one most mothers have when someone brings up the subject of nursing pillows. I get it – you’re probably feeling overwhelmed with all the “must-haves” for raising a baby, and at this point, nursing pillows seem more like a luxury, than an actual necessity. The list of “must-haves” has to end somewhere, right?

I mean, between all the diapers, ear thermometers, strollers, car seats, and bags big enough to fit everything, it’s hard to find room in your budget for a nursing pillow.

And all I can say is:

You won’t know how helpful these pillows are until you try one for yourself.

On that note, here are a few good reasons why you should consider investing in the best nursing pillow both you and your newborn baby will love:

You’re The One Doing All The Work – To be fair, newborns don’t weigh much, but by the time you hit the 30-minute mark of your feeding session, and your muscles start to get fatigued, you’ll feel like your baby gained ten pounds instantly.

It’s no wonder – you’re the one supporting your baby’s head, holding her, and making sure she’s in the right position for a proper latch.

It’s a lot of work for a pair of hands, okay?

Breastfeeding Takes Time – Did you ever try to do the math behind breastfeeding? An average newborn will eat 8 to 12 times day, with each feeding session lasting for up to 45 minutes, which quickly adds up to up to 8 hours of breastfeeding a day.

And without a nursing pillow, during those eight hours, you’ll go from being mildly uncomfortable to beyond-belief tired.

You’ll Need Some Support – After you first have your baby, the back pain that haunted you throughout the late pregnancy might not go away. Sadly, you won’t have the luxury of taking a few days for yourself – you have a baby to look after – so, relieving the strain on your back, shoulders, and neck by using a plush nursing pillow with lumbar support is the next best thing.

You have all the facts now – put two and two together, and you’ll quickly see why more and more mothers around the world think of nursing pillows as their best friends and allies when it comes to breastfeeding.

How To Pick The Best Nursing Pillow: Things To Consider

There are several things to keep in mind when you start your search for the best nursing pillow – here’s a little guide to help you out in your search!

How Long Do You Plan On Nursing?

If you plan on breastfeeding your newborn for a couple of months only, there’s no point in spending big bucks on high-quality nursing pillows.

However, if you wish to continue nursing throughout the first year of your baby’s life, be prepared – invest in a durable nursing pillow your child will grow into, and not outgrow it, instead.

All Those Shapes

There’s more than one shape to choose from – here are the three most common forms you’ll run into when you start your search for the best nursing pillow:

C-shaped nursing pillows fit most body types, and provide ample arm support, regardless of how you’re holding your child.

O-shaped models wrap around your entire midsection and are known for providing plenty of lumbar support.

Crescent-shaped pillows are growing in popularity – more and more mothers are opting for these pillows that wrap around their side.

Fit

The „one pillow to fit them all“ rule doesn’t apply here. I mean, it does, but only to a certain extent – you’ll have to factor in your size and shape if you want to find one that fits just right. Here’s why the perfect fit is so important:

You want your newborn to stay as close to you as possible, but at the same time, they have to be at the right height to latch correctly – a nursing pillow that doesn’t fit right won’t provide any of those things. Plus, a wrap-around that doesn’t fit will make you feel uncomfortable when it starts pressing into your back.

Versatility And Portability

You’ll find that, with most baby equipment, it’s all about versatility – and nursing pillows are no exception. Ideally, the best nursing pillow should help your child learn to sit up, and be used for tummy time, too.

Also, make sure it’s compact enough for you to pack it up and bring along on family trips.

Cleaning Should Be A Breeze

Between spills and all the spit-ups, feeding sessions tend to get pretty messy, so you’re going to spend a fair amount of time cleaning up, too.

And since taking care for a baby is enough work as it is, make things a bit easier on yourself by picking a nursing pillow that has a removable – and machine-washable – cover.

Top 5 Best Nursing Pillows On The Market – Reviews

1. Boppy Nursing Pillow and Positioner – The Bare Essentials

[su_amz asin=”B000KW5I6E”]

The Boppy nursing pillow has over 25 years of experience in the field of making feeding sessions easier for moms, dads, and babies around the globe. That alone says a lot about the pillow’s overall quality!

And yes, it’s a breastfeeding pillow, but at the same time, it’s capable of taking on several other roles. So, besides making feeding sessions a lot more comfortable, it also works for tummy time, propping and helping your baby learn how to sit up, as well as casual lounging on the floor. Moms can use it as a pillow for back support, too, so it’s a win-win!

Plus, it’s super easy to clean! What more can you ask for from a pillow?

However, all the fun covers for this pillow are sold separately. Making your own is an option, though – you’ll add a personal touch to the pillow, and save up some money along the way.

The real issue is the Boppy’s round top surface. You’re going to have some trouble keeping the baby in position – either the pillow will slip away from under your infant, or the baby will end up rolling around.

Pros:

Miracle Middle stretch panel fits most waists

Offers a wide range of uses

The entire pillow is machine-washable

Fairly durable

Reasonably priced

Plenty of covers to choose from

Cons:

The covers sell separately

The rounded surface causes infants to roll around

2. My Brest Friend Original Nursing Posture Pillow – The OG Among Nursing Pillows

[su_amz asin=”B003TSDMH8″]

My Brest Friend nursing pillow – the original, that is – brings something a little bit different to the table. The wrap-around style combined with an adjustable strap not only provides a more secure fit and eliminates the need for frequent re-adjusting, but fits most waists, as well. You’ll get that perfect latch-on position every time!

Furthermore, it encourages proper posture and leaves enough space for you to rest your arms – with My Brest Friend, breastfeeding can be a comfortable, pain-free experience for both the mom and the baby.

Most importantly, the pillow’s surface is flat and firm enough to prevent your baby from rolling around on it or slipping off entirely.

Now, you’ll have to sacrifice something to get a pillow like this. That’s right; I’m talking about portability – the nursing pillow takes up a lot of space, making it a less-than-ideal choice for traveling.

There’s one other issue I feel like I need to mention – there’s no waterproof layer between the somewhat thin fabric cover and the foam. Babies tend to spit up a lot, so you can imagine how disastrous that can be without a waterproof layer to protect the foam pillow.

Pros:

Helps with back pain and arm fatigue

Flat surface keeps your baby close to you

Has a convenient pocket for maternity supplies

The wrap-around style fits most waists

The cover is machine-washable

Cons:

Doesn’t have a waterproof layer

Takes up a lot of space

3. All American Collection New Comfortable Bamboo Nursing Pillow – The Travel-Edition Nursing Pillow

[su_amz asin=”B01L0PTEL4″]

Next on my list is the All American Collection Bamboo nursing pillow – a soft, lightweight, and portable model made for moms on the go. If your family is all about frequent outings and traveling the world with a baby on board, I’m pretty sure this is the best nursing pillow for the job.

Another thing to love about it is the fact that it’s fully machine-washable thanks to the microfiber-filling – I’m not talking about the cover, I’m talking about the entire pillow. Cleaning up after meal-time gets super messy has never been easier!

All this comes at a certain price, though – the fact that the pillow is so lightweight also means it’s not as sturdy as some other, heavier models. Here are the two main issues I’ve encountered regarding sturdiness:

It seems like the pillow isn’t firm enough to hold its shape under the baby’s weight – it starts bending right in the middle. As a result, you’re in for a lot of adjusting throughout every feeding session.

That said, if having a portable nursing pillow is a deciding factor for you, the All American Collection Bamboo pillow is the way to go.

Pros:

The cover combines bamboo and polyester for softness

Lightweight and portable

Both the pillow and the cover are machine-washable

Offers a wide range of uses

Cons:

Requires a lot of adjusting

It’s not firm enough to hold its shape during breastfeeding

4. The Twin Z Pillow – A Must-Have For Parents Of Twins

[su_amz asin=”B007VF57C8″]

Everyone knows tandem feeding is the best possible option for twins. But at the same time, every mother that’s ever breastfed a baby will tell you it can be an exhausting experience with one, let alone two babies on your hands.

That’s where the Twin Z nursing pillow comes to play!

The design is simple – it’s pretty much like sewing together two horseshoe-shaped pillows. What makes it unique, though, is the middle section. It presses against your lower back, and provides plenty of support, making the entire experience of breastfeeding two babies at the same time a lot more comfortable.

Furthermore, the 6-in-1 design concept offers plenty of versatility, both regarding feeding positions, and supporting your babies when they’re just lounging around after their afternoon meal.

The soft, cotton cover is removable, as well as machine-washable, which is a great thing – two newborns make a hell of a mess!

However, you have to keep in mind that, as a nursing pillow made for twins, it’s by no means a lightweight – or compact – option. This thing packs a staggering six pounds of weight.

Also, it’s quite expensive – but there’s nothing cheap about raising twins, anyway, right?

Pros:

The 6-in-1 design offers plenty of versatility

Makes tandem nursing a lot easier

Outstanding back support and overall comfort

It feels soft, yet sturdy

The cover is removable and machine-washable

Cons:

Fairly expensive

Not suitable for traveling due to its size and weight

5. My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow – The Much-Needed Break For Moms

[su_amz asin=”B00PC3K7OE”]

Lastly, I want to talk about another My Brest Friend nursing pillow, but this one is the Deluxe model – and trust me; it does live up to its name.

Breastfeeding is an exhausting endeavor and one that will likely cause you to slouch. The wrap-around design and a secure fit (thanks to the silent-release buckle and a Velcro strap) ensure you have all the support you might need.

You’ll notice the muscle soreness throughout your body after every feeding session will reduce significantly!

Your baby will love the super soft, plush feeling of the cover. You, on the other hand, will enjoy the supportive, yet comfortable nature of the foam filling, and the fact that the cover is easily removed and machine-washable.

And don’t worry; it will stay soft even after frequent trips to the washing machine.

While I appreciate the fact that they tried to make a nursing pillow you can put on using only one hand – I swear, sometimes it seems new mothers need to grow an extra set of hands to keep up – sadly, I don’t think it came out the way they imagined it would.

I mean, it’s doable, but it’s still hard.

Pros:

Encourages better posture

Relieves the strain in your back and arms

Flat surface prevents the baby from slipping out of position

Features Velcro straps and silent-release buckles

Has an attached pouch

Suitable for moms that had a C-section

The cover is washable

Cons:

Hard to put on with one hand

Final Verdict

I know why you’re here – you want to know which one of these is the best nursing pillow on the market, right?

I don’t want to keep you waiting any longer, so let’s cut to the chase. My favorite (and I’m sure new mothers around the world would agree with me on this) is the My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow. Yes, it’s a bit pricier, but it doesn’t have some of the issues commonly found in most other nursing pillows.

What do you think? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: https://thingsnurseslike.com/best-nursing-pillow/

0 notes

nervouswonderlandcoffee · 6 years

Text

Best Nursing Pillow: 2018’s Ultimate Buying Guide For New Mothers

Every parent wants only the best for their child – that goes without saying. However, why not get something that both you and your baby could benefit?

Yes, I’m talking about buying the best nursing pillow.

Feeding sessions are hard work – every mother knows that – so if you can do something to make it a lot less frustrating, why wouldn’t you?

If you’re interested in learning more, keep on reading!

Benefits Of Using A Nursing Pillow & Why You Need One

You might be thinking:

Women have breastfed children for thousands of years, none of them having the option of using a nursing pillow – and they did just fine. So, why would I need one?

I mean, between all the diapers, ear thermometers, strollers, car seats, and bags big enough to fit everything, it’s hard to find room in your budget for a nursing pillow.

And all I can say is:

You won’t know how helpful these pillows are until you try one for yourself.

On that note, here are a few good reasons why you should consider investing in the best nursing pillow both you and your newborn baby will love:

It’s no wonder – you’re the one supporting your baby’s head, holding her, and making sure she’s in the right position for a proper latch.

It’s a lot of work for a pair of hands, okay?

And without a nursing pillow, during those eight hours, you’ll go from being mildly uncomfortable to beyond-belief tired.

How To Pick The Best Nursing Pillow: Things To Consider

There are several things to keep in mind when you start your search for the best nursing pillow – here’s a little guide to help you out in your search!

How Long Do You Plan On Nursing?

If you plan on breastfeeding your newborn for a couple of months only, there’s no point in spending big bucks on high-quality nursing pillows.

However, if you wish to continue nursing throughout the first year of your baby’s life, be prepared – invest in a durable nursing pillow your child will grow into, and not outgrow it, instead.

All Those Shapes

There’s more than one shape to choose from – here are the three most common forms you’ll run into when you start your search for the best nursing pillow:

C-shaped nursing pillows fit most body types, and provide ample arm support, regardless of how you’re holding your child.

O-shaped models wrap around your entire midsection and are known for providing plenty of lumbar support.

Crescent-shaped pillows are growing in popularity – more and more mothers are opting for these pillows that wrap around their side.

Fit

Versatility And Portability

Also, make sure it’s compact enough for you to pack it up and bring along on family trips.

Cleaning Should Be A Breeze

Between spills and all the spit-ups, feeding sessions tend to get pretty messy, so you’re going to spend a fair amount of time cleaning up, too.

And since taking care for a baby is enough work as it is, make things a bit easier on yourself by picking a nursing pillow that has a removable – and machine-washable – cover.

Top 5 Best Nursing Pillows On The Market – Reviews

1. Boppy Nursing Pillow and Positioner – The Bare Essentials

[su_amz asin="B000KW5I6E"]

Plus, it’s super easy to clean! What more can you ask for from a pillow?

However, all the fun covers for this pillow are sold separately. Making your own is an option, though – you’ll add a personal touch to the pillow, and save up some money along the way.

Pros:

Miracle Middle stretch panel fits most waists

Offers a wide range of uses

The entire pillow is machine-washable

Fairly durable

Reasonably priced

Plenty of covers to choose from

Cons:

The covers sell separately

The rounded surface causes infants to roll around

2. My Brest Friend Original Nursing Posture Pillow – The OG Among Nursing Pillows

[su_amz asin="B003TSDMH8"]

Most importantly, the pillow’s surface is flat and firm enough to prevent your baby from rolling around on it or slipping off entirely.

Pros:

Helps with back pain and arm fatigue

Flat surface keeps your baby close to you

Has a convenient pocket for maternity supplies

The wrap-around style fits most waists

The cover is machine-washable

Cons:

Doesn’t have a waterproof layer

Takes up a lot of space

3. All American Collection New Comfortable Bamboo Nursing Pillow – The Travel-Edition Nursing Pillow

[su_amz asin="B01L0PTEL4"]

That said, if having a portable nursing pillow is a deciding factor for you, the All American Collection Bamboo pillow is the way to go.

Pros:

The cover combines bamboo and polyester for softness

Lightweight and portable

Both the pillow and the cover are machine-washable

Offers a wide range of uses

Cons:

Requires a lot of adjusting

It’s not firm enough to hold its shape during breastfeeding

4. The Twin Z Pillow – A Must-Have For Parents Of Twins

[su_amz asin="B007VF57C8"]

That’s where the Twin Z nursing pillow comes to play!

Furthermore, the 6-in-1 design concept offers plenty of versatility, both regarding feeding positions, and supporting your babies when they’re just lounging around after their afternoon meal.

The soft, cotton cover is removable, as well as machine-washable, which is a great thing – two newborns make a hell of a mess!

However, you have to keep in mind that, as a nursing pillow made for twins, it’s by no means a lightweight – or compact – option. This thing packs a staggering six pounds of weight.

Also, it’s quite expensive – but there’s nothing cheap about raising twins, anyway, right?

Pros:

The 6-in-1 design offers plenty of versatility

Makes tandem nursing a lot easier

Outstanding back support and overall comfort

It feels soft, yet sturdy

The cover is removable and machine-washable

Cons:

Fairly expensive

Not suitable for traveling due to its size and weight

5. My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow – The Much-Needed Break For Moms

[su_amz asin="B00PC3K7OE"]

Lastly, I want to talk about another My Brest Friend nursing pillow, but this one is the Deluxe model – and trust me; it does live up to its name.

You'll notice the muscle soreness throughout your body after every feeding session will reduce significantly!

And don’t worry; it will stay soft even after frequent trips to the washing machine.

I mean, it’s doable, but it’s still hard.

Pros:

Encourages better posture

Relieves the strain in your back and arms

Flat surface prevents the baby from slipping out of position

Features Velcro straps and silent-release buckles

Has an attached pouch

Suitable for moms that had a C-section

The cover is washable

Cons:

Hard to put on with one hand

Final Verdict

I know why you’re here – you want to know which one of these is the best nursing pillow on the market, right?

What do you think? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: https://thingsnurseslike.com/best-nursing-pillow/

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rebeccahpedersen · 6 years

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Atlantis!

TorontoRealtyBlog

The plan today was to provide a brief review of Atlantis before my “MLS Musings” post. But then I got typing, as I often do, and the “brief” review just kept going!

By the time I got to 1,200 words, I realized I’d be saving the MLS Musings for next Friday.

This post does have at least one thing in common with the topic of real estate, however, and that’s the inherent negativity that exists in all reviews…

Was I really away on vacation?

It sure doesn’t feel like it…

The week after your vacation is always three times as busy as the week preceding the trip, and Atlantis feels like it was a year ago.

A reader asked me for a brief recap of the trip, but surely by now, you guys know nothing I say is brief.

Feedback, commentary, and opinions on hotels, resorts, restaurants, and almost everything in the service industry are almost always inherently negative, so while I will say, “I had a great time,” and “I would definitely go again,” let me regale you with my long list of complaints first.

If it bleeds, it leads. And happy stories don’t make the news. So why should a review of a glorious Caribbean resort be any different, right?

Let’s start from the very beginning…

Atlantis has a shuttle that picks you up at the airport and takes you directly to the resort, but as the parents of a 17-month-old child, we wondered, “Does the shuttle have child seats?”

The answer, of course, is no.

And as my wife was told on the phone, “You don’t need a child seat in Bahamas. It’s not mandatory.”

Not mandatory. But preferable? This is supposed to be a 5-star resort; we were shocked that they’d encourage us to overlook the safety of our kids, but oh well.

We decided to hire another service to take us to and from the airport, partially because of the child-seat issue, but also so we could stop at a grocery store and liquor store before we hit the resort. As I’ll explain later, that was a more important journey than we thought it would be.

Having taken the 7am flight, we arrived at the resort around 1pm, tired already, and looking forward to unpacking and getting settled. We were told by the front desk, “Check-in isn’t until 4pm,” but I figured that was more of a general rule. How many times have you got to a hotel or motel and they said, “Oh, actually, look – your room is ready”?

We wandered around the sprawling and intimidating resort for 90 minutes, then went back to the desk, only to be told, again, that our room wasn’t ready. 2:30pm? Really? The room wasn’t ready?

My wife was in that, “Please don’t do this again” space, hoping I’d get down with “island time” and relax a little.

When we went back to the desk at 3:45pm, and were told the room wasn’t ready, I just about lost it. But then I remembered I was supposed to relax, so I did. I relaxed against the wall next to the front desk, and stared at the clock. For 13 minutes. Until at 3:58pm, magically, the person at the front desk said, “Mr. Fleming? Your room is ready.”

Our room wasn’t ready, however. Not for habitation.

We opened the front door, and like a punch in the face, the smell of cleaning products hit us.

The carpet was damp. It was clear that they had put a lot of effort into cleaning the room, I’ll give them that. But nothing was dry. It was like a steam room, and you could see moisture on every surface. Even the TV had streaks from cleaning products.

We explored the resort a little more, and soon realized that the “perfect resort for kids” had no ramps for strollers, and only three elevators. The entire resort is full of husband-and-wife teams, carrying their strollers down the stairs like contestants on American Gladiators.

The resort is full of these little shacks that serve light and healthy meals like hamburgers, nachos and cheese, pizza, french fries, and hot dogs, but looking for something a little more our speed for the first night, and hoping to get out of the sweltering heat, we asked if there was anywhere we could just sit down?

Go to Mosaic, we were told, and so we did.

Hiking up and down paths that seemed to lead nowhere, with positively no idea where we were going (“up there, right, then left, then right,” is what we were told), we found Mosaic after about a half hour.

Once inside the beautiful, air-conditioned restaurant that didn’t have a single person inside, we were quite relieved to say the least. It was exactly what we wanted after a long day of travel, and forced walking. Just a nice, cool place to grab a quick bite and then get back to the room to put our daughter to bed.

Little did I know, the restaurant opened at 5:30pm. We arrived at 5:31pm.

My wife and I took turns going to the massive buffet, looking for what our daughter could, would, should eat, and helping ourselves as well.

We were probably in there for twenty minutes, and when we asked for the bill, the waitress looked at us a little funny.

A few minutes later when I opened the billfold, I realized why.

$144 U.S.

For two people, because children under 2-years-old eat free.

My fault, 100%. No question about it.

We were like lambs to the slaughter; walking inside and sitting down without inquiring about the price. I probably wouldn’t have left, had I known this was an “all-you-can-eat” buffet at $72 USD per person, since I was so tired I’d have likely just said, “Screw it, let’s do it.” But I sure wouldn’t have been caught off-guard!

I signed for a $15 tip, which I actually felt bad for, because it’s so cheap! Barely over 10%, I thought. But having been there for 20 minutes, and since the waitress only sat us down and gave us glasses of water, I tried to justify it in my mind.

I would soon learn what you guys already know: that there’s an automatic 15% gratuity on EVERYTHING on the resort. Not to mention the 7.5% vacation tax.

22.5% added to every bill. Even something as “cheap” as a $5 bottle of water comes with the 22.5% addition.

We left Mosaic feeling stupid. Almost $200 Canadian for a twenty-minute meal.

My mother and I have this saying about vacations, and it goes like this, “Start spending.”

On vacation? Start spending.

If you’re going to do it, do it right. You’re away from home, you’ve earned this, you saved for this – so enjoy it. Just start spending!

And after shelling out $200 for one plate of food on the first night, I figured, “What the hell, it is what it is.”

The next morning, however, I made another discovery regarding price, and this one didn’t sit quite as well with me.

It seems that all the “cheaper” restaurants on the island are of the all-you-can-eat variety.

Meaning that if you want breakfast at Mosaic or Poseidon’s Table, you’re paying $41 USD per person.

Sorry guys, I can’t do it.

I’m not cheap, and I’m not poor. But I can’t do it. I can’t pay $106 every morning for breakfast for my wife and myself. I simply refuse.

The problem was, they didn’t have anywhere you could avoid the all-you-can-eat money-grab.

I’d have gladly paid $20 for two eggs on a piece of toast, but that option was nowhere to be found.

We ended up getting bagels and/or Starbucks-style cheese-croissant-bacon-thingees from the coffee shop, which along with a coffee, ran our total to about $30 per morning.

Thankfully, all the food we had bought at the grocery store for our daughter – fresh fruits and veggies, Cheerios, et al, was able to help one of us avoid gaining 6% in total body mass over the course of the trip.

I don’t know if Atlantis styles their all-you-can-eat restaurants around the American obsession with being fat, or the best way to overcharge people, but either way, the results were felt.

On the first night when we went to fill the bath for Maya, we discovered that the faucet didn’t work. It let out a trickle of water that I calculated would have taken 8 hours to fill the tub. So I took out the ice bucket, filled it with lukewarm water, and dumped it into the tub.

I repeated this act twenty-six additional times.

And then did so for the entire trip. Twenty-seven buckets per night, for seven nights. I filled the ice bucket 189 times in total.

We rented a “suite” at Atlantis, that’s essentially a 1-bedroom with a living room, so that we could have Maya sleep in a crib in the living room while we slept in the bedroom. The pocket sliding-doors that separated the living room from the bedroom, however, did not close.

So every night when we went to bed there was a 24-inch gap that allowed noise to transfer, and thus if we wanted to be inside, we had to remain silent to avoid waking the little bug up. We ended up drinking on our terrace every night, watching the people below – without kids, party the way we used to. Oh, we made that observation more than a few times! It’s just not the same with kids, is it?

The next day we decided to check out “Dolphin Cay,” which is pretty much as it sounds; a large man-made lagoon with a pack of cute-as-can-be dolphins, that kids of all ages would love. It’s $400 USD per person to swim with the dolphins, but we were told by many on the island that you can go and watch for free.

Free? Is anything free at Atlantis?

Imagine my surprise when we walked up to Dolphin Cay and found a swarm of people standing behind a fence that was 700 feet from any dolphin, and yet some people were on the sand, on the other side of the fence, a little closer.

Want to walk out onto the sand for a better look?

That’s $17 USD per person.

I couldn’t stomach it.

$51 for the three of us is nothing, and I’d gladly pay it to see one smile on my daughter’s face. But I was just so unprepared for how this entire resort is built around picking people up, turning them upside down, and shaking them until every last penny falls out.

The goddam umbreallas on the beach, necessary to keep my kid from baking in the sun, were $20 to rent.

And while I don’t want to complain about the $295 USD per round of golf at Ocean Club, since that’s a personal choice I made, it bears mentioning.

So what else can I complain about?

Not once during the trip did the cleaning staff replace our shampoo and soap, so I basically grew dreadlocks. Thank god for the bar of Dove I brought from Toronto. I’ve never liked hotel soap.

The cleaning staff also didn’t empty our garbage, so each morning we’d take that down with us and throw it out ourselves.

We checked out the Atlantis “Kid’s Club” one afternoon, only to find it wasn’t a place where our kid could play, but rather a drop-off centre. I mentioned in my post from two weeks ago how our daughter wouldn’t be allowed to play, given she was under 3-years-old, but I didn’t realize this was for kids only.

We asked if we could take a look anyways, and the guy at the desk said, “Adults aren’t allowed back there.” I smiled, and said, “I’m not looking to build a Lego castle, I just wanted to see what’s behind the curtain.” He replied, “It’s not possible, sir.”

I pictured a dozen kids behind that curtain, all sitting in front of cute little sewing machines, making textiles to be shipped out from the nearest port…

Call me crazy, but the idea of dropping my child off at this fine establishment for an extended period of time didn’t sit well with me. Maybe, as a huge Liam Neeson fan, I’ve seen Taken a few too many times. Tell me if I need to cut the cord here.

In the end, we made our own good time, as one has to do.

I realize just how much this reeks of “first world problem’s,” but, well, we live in the first world. So this is my review.

The irony is, I had an amazing time. So did my wife. And our daughter? I’ve never seen her so happy.

As I said at the onset, most reviews are negative. People are far more likely to put the effort into a complaint than they are to put the effort into a “job well done.”

I’ve been to two Sandals resorts, and those trips were flawless. So I’m not letting Atlantis completely off the hook, but I will admit that many of the negatives we experienced at Atlantis are things we would filter out next time.

Atlantis comes with a massive learning curve, and many of you wrote comments on my blog two weeks ago to that effect. In fact, some of your comments helped us to learn what’s what!

This trip with our daughter was a huge “success.”

Last summer, we went to the same cottage that we’d been to four times previously over Canada Day long weekend, and it just didn’t work with Maya, who was then 7-months-old. One month later, we went to Idaho, and soon learned that it wasn’t the right vacation for an 8-month-old child.

But Atlantis was perfect for her. She played in the kiddie pool for hours every day, and in the sand on the beach.

She loved to explore the grounds no matter where we went.

And she spent hours watching the fish, sharks, and turtles from the various aquariums and outdoor ponds.

Seven days, and she never fussed. She didn’t cry on either plane ride, she went right to sleep every night at 7pm, and slept for 12 hours. She never stopped smiling the entire trip, and every day was a new experience for her.

Yes, Atlantis is expensive.

Yes, Atlantis is large, awkward, and has no accessiblity for strollers.

Yes, the room and the service disappionted us.

But as I have come to learn in the past year, the needs and well-being of my child now come far before my own. This wasn’t a vacation for David and Jenna; it was an experience for Maya, and for the Fleming family as a unit.

I’m sure there are other, better, cheaper, closer, quieter, cleaner, sexier resorts out there, but looking at the photos and the smile on my daughter’s face in each of them, I wouldn’t change a thing.

Have a great weekend, everybody!

The post Atlantis! appeared first on Toronto Real Estate Property Sales & Investments | Toronto Realty Blog by David Fleming.

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certainstudentfirefan-blog · 6 years

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Read Evaluations On Top 5 Baby strollers.

It's been constantly excited for me to assist individuals specifically buying something for kids. My general referral would certainly be that unless you bought your existing stroller in the first place with weight and ease of bring in mind, after that it is probably not appropriate for traveling. While some umbrella strollers miss the under-seat storage space basket completely, a couple of have smart functions for maximizing room. This infant stroller ensures the needed precaution, which has made it among the very best reclining umbrella stroller with canopy. If this is the case, then the weight and dimension of the infant stroller can be vital. Our choice for the very best dual umbrella baby stroller is the Chicco Echo Twin Baby Stroller, as well as we are not the just one to think so. Maclaren is a massive name in the infant stroller world as well as this particular item definitely lives up to the online reputation in umbrella stroller reviews. Extra notably, a totally lying umbrella baby stroller will certainly allow you to make use of the infant stroller for newborns/infants. So, I suggest keeping this list (best umbrella infant stroller) in front of you prior to you also start investigating umbrella strollers. This infant stroller includes a small fold and also while it will not win a prize for being the tiniest baby stroller 2017, it does include numerous features and also must fit your kids from birth to preschool age. As a general regulation, an umbrella stroller or a stroller particularly produced traveling can be the method to go given that they fold nice as well as compactly. It is suitable from the moment your infant is around 3 months till 55 pounds, so you ought to not ever require another baby stroller. Rain cover: Always examine that the baby stroller you want comes with a rain cover, as not all do. In order to help mothers (and also papas) select an umbrella baby stroller that ideal fit their requirements. Shoulder straps included the hold the kid flawlessly with the seat to avoid any kind of accidents. This umbrella stroller has actually developed with lightweight components, that is why this baby stroller is light-weight. All the features this infant stroller showcases makes it an extremely preferable umbrella baby stroller. The seat of the stroller is comfortable for the child as well as you can adjust the seat. This function, coupled with the various other attributes it uses make it one of the best umbrella baby strollers for babies. Still, in the world of child equipment, an umbrella infant stroller is no lightweight: See our choices for the very best umbrella baby stroller that'll be your household's go-to travel companion. I additionally inspected this baby stroller on Amazon to find out exactly what various other parents say about it showcases. You have actually most likely noticed that kids and larger kids are the main travelers of an umbrella stroller. The baby stroller has a 2-position recline and also has a very comprehensive UPF 50+ rated canopy. Comfy: Comfort initial aspect that no parent could stay clear of while buying a baby stroller for their brand-new birthed baby. If best baby stroller 2in1 have young kids that need an infant stroller regularly then preferably, yes, take one!

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benandmollycohen · 6 years

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Hi wonderful friends and family! I’m so sorry I’ve taken so long between posts. Things have been wild and crazy since Ben finally arrived home.

Great news to start with: Ben had his 5th biopsy on Tuesday. No rejection again! (Still waiting on the AMR stain test, but it should be negative too.) YAY! When the doctor came in to speak with us after the biopsy, his words exactly were: “Your heart looks like a million dollars!” I was on cloud 9 when I heard him say this! When they first checked over Ben’s heart immediately after transplant, half of his heart wasn’t beating as strongly as it should. I was panicking wondering if they messed up on the heart that they chose for Ben. They have seen progress over the last month and to finally hear that his heart looks like a million dollars was the exact encouragement I needed to hear! I thank God every day for Ben’s donor and donor family.

Next on the list: I’m glad I was warned about the prednisone “roid rage”. We’d be in big trouble if we hadn’t been warned about it. All I can say, is that the steroid rage is very real, and very alive in Ben. When it first happened, I was so quick to fire back at Ben because I’m not the kind of person that let’s people walk all over me. As any married couple, of course we have arguments. And luckily for us, we are great at arguing, working it out and moving on happily. However, with steroid rage, this is most definitely not the case. Steroid rage is in a whole new category. It’s anger that is caused by medications and happens at the drop of a hat, over no real reason. It’s anger that can’t be controlled or calmed or stopped until it passes on its’ own time. And I’ll be honest, it’s pretty frightening. As a wife, it’s scary to watch my husband lose control of his emotions, of his voice, of his body. As a mother, it’s scary to watch my children as they watch their daddy get red in the face and shake with rage, and yell out things he wishes he never said. As Ben’s “nurse” I watch in awe as I’m able to see just how horrific steroid use can be and how it can completely take over your mind and body.

Even though I was warned and felt prepared for all of this, I wasn’t ready for this. I’ve prepared myself by knowing that all I have to do is ignore him when he goes through a “roid rage episode” and just to give him space. I thought it was going to be so easy to just remind myself that “it’s just the meds talking” and not my Honey, not my husband. But the truth is, it’s hard. This is harder than the anticipation of “the call”. This is harder than seeing my husband for the first time after his transplant with a thousand tubes and wires connected to his body as he lay there lifeless. This has been the most mentally exhausting part of this entire experience from the first time Ben got hospitalized two years ago.

Last Friday, things got so bad that I had to call Ben’s doctor behind his back. I know “roid rage” is a side effect of his prednisone steroid, but I was so worried about him that I called his doctor in full panic mode ready to demand that something needed to be done. As I explained to the doctor what was going on, she met with the team and called me back immediately. The doctors decided to take Ben off of prednisone and switch him to another steroid, one with a “lesser roid rage” side effect. They said it wasn’t going to be perfect by any means, but something to at least help lower the awful side effects. They also had to put Ben on an antidepressant/anti-anxiety medication in hopes that that too would help Ben.

When I called the doctor, I took Colton to the supermarket to make sure Ben didn’t hear me talking to her. When I got home I had to gauge his emotional level with small talk. I had to tell him that I called his doctors behind his back. How could the sudden medication changes be explained? I kid you not, I nearly peed my pants as I said the words, “Honey, we need to talk.” The latter four words are words no one ever wants to hear, but I needed to make sure he was listening. As I spoke to him, my mouth was trembling, my eyes were watering, and my hand was shaking as I was trying to gently hold his hand. Somehow I mustered up the courage to tell him I called his doctors and spilled the beans on everything that had been happening over the last week. He was speechless (thank goodness!), and so I made sure to tell him that I only did this because I love him, I was worried about him, and that I want to make sure he was okay. He nodded his head in agreement and simply said “Okay”.

If you’re wondering, “well what happened exactly? Does he seriously get upset for no reason?” Here’s two examples: Jackson took a tomato and some cheese off the cutting board. Roid Rage. I cut the sausages the wrong way. Roid rage. Screaming, body shaking, slamming doors kind of rage. Seriously minuscule stuff, but at the time, for Ben, these things were the worst things to have happened ever. It sounds super silly right now to say that Ben got mad over a tomato and sausage, but that’s what happened. And that’s why this is so mentally exhausting for me because I don’t know what is going to cause the next “blow up”. When the “blow ups” happen, there’s NOTHING I can do to help him besides shut my mouth and give him space. That’s the other mentally exhausting part too because every ounce of my being wants to help him and find a way to calm him down or cheer him up or just find something else to talk about to get his mind off of whatever set him off. But I can’t. Believe me, I’ve tried it all with no luck.

The most heart breaking part is that Ben can feel his anxiety heighten as a “blow up” is coming on and he just literally cannot stop it from happening. Every single time the “roid rage” takes over his body, he apologizes to all of us and wishes he could take back everything he said and did. He talks to me after the boys go to bed and describes what it’s like in the moment. It’s like an anxiety attack filled with rage. He doesn’t know why these things set him off. It’s like someone else is taking over his body and he’s watching like a fly on the wall. Unfortunately, Ben is falling right into the textbook description of what happens to your body when you’re on steroids (post transplant at least). The doctors told me that unfortunately I’m not the first person to make that phone call behind their loved ones back, and I won’t be the last.

My heart breaks for Jackson the most. He’s 5 years old and has shown us how much he remembers and I just don’t want this tainting his view of his Honey (Daddy). Every time an outburst happens, I always pull Jackson aside and remind him that this is just daddy’s medication talking and that soon enough, Honey won’t be on that medication any more and that he’ll go back to being his normal self. It’s gotten to the point where Jackson rolls his eyes, cuts me off and says, “I know, Mama. It’s Honey’s medicine.” :) At least I know he’s listening! And Jackson, with a heart of gold, always tries comforting Ben by patting the couch space next to him inviting Ben to watch an episode of Pokemon together and snuggling. Yet another reason to be mentally exhausted: the total mix and range of emotions!

I didn’t mean for this post to get so detailed (I never do HA!). Sorry this wasn’t an uplifting post either. I promise, most of the time, Ben is great! They’ve been changing his meds around a bunch over the last two weeks, so he hasn’t been feeling his greatest as it’s taking time for each of the new changes to work right. But, minus the outbursts, Ben is thriving! The doctors say Ben is another 1-2 weeks away from driving again! And, once his chest tube site on his stomach is fully healed, Ben is allowed to go swimming! (But can’t submerge his head for a while.) Ben hasn’t been allowed to swim since before May. But living in Boston, the weather wasn’t warm enough to swim since the summer before that. So Ben hasn’t been swimming in nearly two years and we are just a couple weeks away from that! Little victories are slowly coming our way and it is so great! Soon enough these “roid rages” will be a thing of the past and yet another obstacle we can celebrate overcoming.

A few more little victories to be noted:

1) The flu has officially left our house! (Jackson and I still have annoying coughs, but the doctor said we are no longer contagious and can be mask free in the home.)

2) We all went to the zoo and walked around in the 85 degree heat for a few hours! This is such a feat because prior to transplant, Ben never had any energy to do anything. This is a feat even after transplant because Ben lost a lot of muscle tone from laying in a hospital bed for 3 weeks, and even longer when he got discharged, so walking around is hard enough. (Let alone having to wear a mask in the awful heat! He took it off briefly for the picture.)

3) The doctors approved Ben to be allowed to take his mask off outside as long as there isn’t dust being kicked up where he is walking, and there are no people within a bedroom sized vicinity of him. Wahoo!

4) Ben will be able to start cardiac rehab very soon! He will be able to slowly learn how to workout again and build muscle back. Working out is something that Ben has wanted to do for years now, but hasn’t been able to do because of his heart. But now he has a million dollar ticker and he will work out!

5) Ben is getting back into the kitchen able to do a little bit of cooking again! He is the chef in our house and it kills him not to do the cooking. (I’ve kept us alive though, right?) He has been thrilled to be jumping in and doing more and more cooking.

6) And for me, I finally made it back to my stroller strides workout class! It’s been at least a month since I’ve been to class, and boy do I need it now more than ever! I’d be too embarrassed to tell you that I ate 3 pints of ice cream in one week... on top of ordering delivery McFlurries... Yikes. Hopefully I got my stress eating over and done with and can get back on track. Ice cream is my greatest weakness. :)

7) Colton is a walking machine! He’s too confident now! He loves running away from me mid diaper change... and has peed on the floor twice this week when I don’t get him fast enough. HAHAHA ooops!

8) Jackson is a Pokemon machine! We are a family that has become addicted to PokemonGo and I never thought I’d ever say those words. At first, it was a cute bonding experience for the boys, but now they’re roping me into and we have all grown to love it! I get more and more amazed by Jackson each day. His attention to detail and the things he remembers is truly remarkable. I cannot believe we are signing Jackson up for Kindergarten!

Even though the bulk of my post was “negative” I want everyone to rest assured knowing that it’s just another bump in the road and we have plenty of “positives” to hold onto and keep our spirits high. Because of the nature of this post however, and our current situation, I have asked Ben to not read this post. So, please continue to check in on Ben, but do NOT mention his “roid rage”. Please. I’m not writing any of this to make him mad, I’m simply acknowledging what is real in our life right now, so a few years down the road, we can revisit this and see just how far we have come. I’ve also written this to let all of you know that if you’re ever with, or talking to, Ben and he loses it over “nothing”, that YOU cannot take it to heart what he’s saying and to tell yourself “it’s just the meds talking”. Roid rage will be gone soon enough, so don’t worry! We have such a new wonderful life to be so thankful for and to make the most of it. One day at a time!

We’ve been to the hospital twice this week for the biopsy and more blood work. Tuesday Ben has to visit the vampires yet again, and the following week will be his 6th biopsy. I’m going to do my best to get back to weekly posting, or at least bi-weekly posting!

Thank you for your continued thoughts, prayers, and encouragement!

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themomsandthecity · 7 years

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Tots Take Coachella: Why So Many Parents Bring Their Young Kids to the Music Festival

Charlotte, age 3, pushes her own stroller across a grassy hill, a pair of pale pink, noise-blocking headphones placed over her blond locks. Her mom, publicist Jenni Weinman, is at her side. No, the mother and daughter aren't spending the day at the playground; they're at the Coachella Music Festival. Jenni Weinman and Eric Voake with daughter Charlotte at Coachella's main stage. Image Source: Courtesy Jenni Weinman Weinman and her husband, music photographer Eric Voake, have brought Charlotte along to the event every year since she was born. For Weinman and Voake, there was no question that Charlotte would become a part of their existing Coachella tradition when they started their family. "We love her, and she's totally rad, so we want her to be everywhere we are," Weinman told POPSUGAR. "The other thing is, it allows for her to kind of be indoctrinated early to culture. To see different people, different things - the exposure of it all." Voake, who photographs Coachella bands, gives his daughter a lift. Image Source: Courtesy Jenni Weinman The Weinman-Voake family is not a rarity at Coachella. In fact, a novice might be surprised by the number of toddler-age kids at the Empire Polo Club fields in Indio, CA, every year. And many parents and parenting experts agree that it's evidence of a larger trend of urban, upwardly mobile moms and dads incorporating their kids into their existing lifestyles. Those parents today seem less apt than previous generations to drastically change their lives once they add kids to the mix or to cleave to traditional ideas of separate "kid" and "adult" realms. The Coachella Scene Father and son watch a puppet show at Woodstock in August 1969. Image Source: Getty / Ralph Ackerman The phenomenon of kids swaying side by side next to their parents at music festivals is nothing new. After all, there are plenty of black-and-white photos of literal "flower" children cavorting half naked in the mud alongside their parents at Woodstock. Still, it's hard to compare Woodstock's relatively minuscule and homogenous crowd and widely held hippie ethos of peace and love to a modern music festival like Coachella. Coachella is less a music festival than a massive cultural event, drawing a cross section of musicians, fashion bloggers, foodies, burnouts, brand consultants, party promoters - and, yes, families with kids. In short, Coachella looks nothing like Woodstock, and Coachella today looks nothing like Coachella did when it began in 1999. Then, a mere 25,000 people showed up to hear bands like Beck and Rage Against the Machine play for $50 per day. Cut to 17 years later, and the music festival itself is simply the hub of a major cultural and commercial event. This year's headliners were as varied as '90s hair rockers Guns N' Roses, EDM star Calvin Harris, and hipster rapper A$AP Rocky. Last year, more than 198,000 people attended the two weekends of Coachella, and the resulting $84 million in ticket sales made it the highest-grossing music festival in the world, according to BoxScore. Beyond that, easily thousands of others descended upon the Coachella Valley to attend the myriad parties and events that pop up on its fringes each year. Those bashes are hosted by fashion, media, and music companies and lifestyle and consumer brands, all eager for the cache of cool and the access to an upscale, youthful market Coachella weekend offers. How Kid Friendly Is Coachella, Really? Eileen Zyko Wolter, a marketing and PR manager who now lives in the NYC area, first took her kids to Coachella in 2011. At the time, her youngest son, Graeme, was 3, and her eldest, Luke, was 7. She says she was surprised by how easy and comfortable their experience was, allowing that she and her husband, David, who's currently an EVP of A&R for RCA Records, had VIP and backstage access. For Wolter, bringing her kids along was a no-brainer. "We're not superfussy parents, and our kids are really sort of gung-ho to do stuff," she told POPSUGAR. "The biggest thing we were worried about was having a stroller." As Wolter learned, strollers are indeed allowed at Coachella - though there's nowhere to check them - and there are a few other amenities available to families and kids listed on the festival's website. (Coachella declined to comment for this story.) Children under 5 are free, and the website states that women seeking some privacy are welcome to breast pump at any of the three medical tents on site, where washing stations and sanitizing cloths are available. But in comparison to Coachella's sister festival, Stagecoach, Coachella seems downright unaccommodating to kiddos . . . at least on paper. Stagecoach, a country music fest, is also held at the Empire Polo Club field. There, kids under 10 are free, the night ends "by or before" midnight, and there is a published code of conduct that threatens ejection for "obscene clothing," "irresponsible use of alcohol," and even "offensive gestures, imagery, or symbolism." Stagecoach boasts the "Halfpint Hootenanny," staffed by a chapter of the Girl Scouts council, where kids can enjoy an animal barn, jewelry-making bar, and performances from kid-friendly musicians. (In some cases, those musicians are actual kids, like one of this year's performers, 11-year-old Emi Sunshine.) Interestingly, though, arrests at Stagecoach outnumber those at Coachella. This seems to correspond to its more lenient alcohol policy; at Coachella, alcohol sale and consumption is limited to specific "beer garden" areas, while at Stagecoach, alcohol can be consumed anywhere on the premises by those 21 and up. And at both festivals? Marijuana, medically and legally prescribed or not, is verboten. (Though if you get close to the stages during almost any Coachella show, you will eventually wander into a cloud of weed smoke.) Sgt. Dan Marshall of the Indio Police Department told POPSUGAR alcohol is easily the number one law-enforcement issue at either fest. And in his 13 years at Coachella, he insists that he has never dealt with, or even heard of, a case in which a young child was separated from his or her parents on the grounds. "No. We do not have that. We just don't see it," he said. He adds that, of last year's total of 93 Coachella arrests, "zero" were for crimes against or involving young children. "Our mantra is: everybody is going to go home in the same condition they arrived in," Marshall said. Dr. Jen Trachtenberg, a NYC-based pediatrician, says there are, of course, legitimate health and safety concerns parents should have about their children's well-being at an outdoor festival like Coachella: namely, the heat and noise. "You always have to remember with children: they're much more sensitive to the environment and toxins in general," she says. But if responsible parents are armed with noise-blocking headphones, sunscreen, water, hats, sunglasses, snacks, and bug repellent? Trachtenberg reasons: "Kids are definitely going to be exposed to things. You can't live in a bubble. I haven't been to one of these music festivals firsthand, [but] if you still set your limits and you set an example for your children, they're still going to be exposed to other things. But you need to set a good example for them, and I think things can be OK." While we did spot one toddler sans any hearing protection at all sitting with his 30-something parents near a loud, large bank of speakers during punk-rockers Rancid's set on Sunday afternoon, that family seemed to be the exception. Of the remaining parents we saw or spoke to at Coachella this year, most seemed prepared with an arsenal of baby-friendly gear- and an understanding that while baby was along for the ride, they would likely need to make kid-friendly accommodations for things like nap needs and time in the shade. Michelle McCurter and Kerry Schaperow with son Kamden. Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Lindsay Miller Michelle McCurter and Kerry Schaperow had their 2-year-old son, Kamden, in tow on Sunday, when temperatures hit 90 degrees. The San Diego parents detailed the "hours and days" of preparation that went into planning and packing for Coachella. McCurter said her must haves included: "Baby wipes, sunscreen, a water bottle with a filter so you can keep refilling it at the water station, chapstick . . . headphones, definitely. And there are a bunch of tents with air conditioning that we jump around from." What Coachella Kids Say About Modern Parenting So, does this microtrend of parents choosing to bring their young kids to Coachella reflect something larger? Do modern parents choose to incorporate their kids into their lives and interests more heavily compared to previous generations? "Yes, yes, yes," says Dr. Tovah Klein, who has studied toddler development for nearly 30 years and authored the book How Toddlers Thrive. Klein says it's a shift she's witnessed herself in her work but raises some concerns with. "When we become parents, our lives should change. They should change in wonderful ways. Because adding a child to your life is a wonderful thing, it's also a trying thing. And as with any transition in life, moving forward also means letting go of something. Maybe you can't go to the music festival." The desire to incorporate kids into classically "adult" cultural activities is gaining steam across the country, especially in metropolitan areas among parents with high incomes. (Coachella itself demands a very high price. Weekend tickets cost from $399 for general admission to $899 for VIP admission, meaning that the festival draws an overwhelmingly upwardly mobile crowd.) In NYC, dining club Nibble & Squeak - with its tagline "Dining For Parents With Pipsqueaks" - makes upscale dining easier for foodies with kids by reserving kid-friendly spaces in high-end restaurants, some of which have Michelin stars and $100-plus tasting menus. In LA, at the Jessica Biel-bolstered Au Fudge, parents can enjoy steak frites or French omelettes in the dimly lit dining room while the kids dine on grilled cheese sticks and chicken nuggets. Or, if mom is craving a grown-ups-only tete-à-tete, she can drop the little ones well within eyeshot in the "creative space," where "au pairs" oversee kids in crafts and games for a $15 admission. Anecdotally, parents these days seem remarkably open to taking their young kids with them when they go out to meals, museums, or even a friend's house party, as opposed to leaving them home with a babysitter. Grace and Nelson Stewart arrive at Coachella with their 19-month-old twins. Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Lindsay Miller Grace Stewart and her husband, Nelson, decided to take that tack at Coachella this year. The couple arrived as gates opened on Friday with their 19-month-old twins, Nelson and Grayson Elizabeth. The Scottsdale, AZ, parents - who were looking forward to seeing Ellie Goulding, Bat For Lashes, and Of Monsters and Men - said they were "ready to go," toting two bags of extra sweatshirts, blankets, sippy cups, and snacks. "When we were pregnant and we were trying to have kids, we always talked about it: 'If God blesses us, we really want to show them what we can, bring them everywhere we can,'" Grace Stewart told POPSUGAR. "We want to culture them at a young age.'" The Stewarts' ethos is one shared by parents at Coachella and beyond; POPSUGAR Studios' own director of audience development, Kat Malinowska, and her husband often take their 9-month-old daughter, Aleksandra, to "grown-up" events and social occasions in their San Francisco neighborhood. "We take her to brunch basically every weekend. She chills on our laps and tears up napkins. More unusual places [we've gone] include a hockey game, the museum, an art opening, and house parties," Malinowska said. There's also a practical financial concern for parents in mid- to large-size cities: "Babysitters are $16-$20/hour in SF. Not crazy, but getting a babysitter tacks on an extra $100 or so to anything you do." Ida Kay works in marketing and communications for Red Bull and had her first child, daughter Sophia, in January. The Santa Monica mom has taken her baby to fashion events and even a facial appointment - which she admits was not the most successful outing. "When we got pregnant, more than one couple told us the trick was to incorporate the baby into your lifestyle from the beginning . . . or else it will never happen," she said. "The baby is obviously the boss in many ways, but if you incorporate them into your lifestyle, you are much more likely to have a balanced life." That sentiment is one POPSUGAR Moms Director Rebecca Gruber says she is very familiar with. "Parents these days are having kids later than earlier generations, so they had time to enjoy the 'good' life before kids and don't want to give it up now that they have kids," she observed. The Kids-at-Coachella Controversy Still, as with seemingly any parenting choice in the internet age, families at Coachella have been the subject of some online scrutiny. A 2015 Huffington Post article put the issue in rather stark terms with the title "Bringing Kids to Coachella: Good or Bad Parenting?" And if the parents happen to be public figures, the opinions are amplified. When Alicia Silverstone brought her 11-month-old son, Bear, to the festival in 2012, she faced a chorus of mommy bloggers lamenting her choice. In a post for Mommyish.com titled "Sorry, Alicia Silverstone. Your Toddler Shouldn't Be at Coachella," writer Lindsay Cross - who seemingly had not attended the festival herself - addressed the star: "I don't care how adorable he looks in his noise-cancelling headphones . . . Let's think about the biggest story to come out of Coachella this year. In case you missed it, Rihanna tweeted a picture of herself possibly doing coke off a bald man's head." (Some might argue that characterization depends on where one gets their news.) Royal ✌️💖👧🌴✨🎶 @coachella #foreveronvacation A photo posted by @alessandraambrosio on Apr 20, 2014 at 12:07am PDT My favorite little person💖💖💖 #bff #coachella2014 #myangel #amor #familia A photo posted by @alessandraambrosio on Apr 21, 2014 at 11:27am PDT Similarly, when Victoria's Secret model Alessandra Ambrosio Instagrammed several photos with her 5-year-old daughter, Anja, at the festival in 2014, some commenters called her parental judgment into question, while others jumped to her defense. "Uh, taking your kid to Coachella is probably not the smartest thing to do," wrote one user underneath a photo of Anja midconcert, propped up on an adult's shoulders. "I've been to a number of concerts and have seen kids at them all," another Instagram user countered. "This is an all ages event. The kid can go! She looks pretty happy so I don't know why people are freaking out." That sort of parent-on-parent pile-on irks Lenore Skenazy, whose book Free Range Parenting might be one of the most well-known and impassioned tomes against so-called helicopter parenting out there today. (Her book synopsis? "Fighting the belief that our children are in constant danger from creeps, kidnapping, germs, grades, flashers, frustration, failure, baby snatchers, bugs, bullies, men, sleepovers and/or the perils of a non-organic grape.") "If the parents think that something makes sense for their kids, or their kids are ready for X or Y - barring any obvious and egregious reason why we shouldn't trust the parents - I trust them to make fine decisions," she wrote in an email. "Maybe not the same ones I'd make or you'd make. But I don't believe in second-guessing everyone else's parenting. It's not a spectator sport." So, was there anything these parents ran into that gave them pause during Coachella? After a beat, Eileen Zyko Wolter, the Coachella veteran, was able to remember one. "We did come across, at the end of one of the nights, a bunch of people passed out on the ground," she recalled. "And we just said, 'Oh, you know what happens when you stay out in the sun all day and get tired. They're taking a nap!'" http://bit.ly/2oom3Un

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