Mom Must-Haves: Lizzy
From top left to right:
Pouch Sets - I’ll say it forever, they organize all my coming and going! Throw diapers or snacks below a stroller in pouches, move a small pouch of odds and ends (chapstick, bandaids + hair ties forever!) from one bag to another, the uses are endless!
Sunglasses - I have always been a sunglasses gal, and mine have become 100% Warby Parker over the years. Not only do I love them because I have sensitive eyes, but also because on days when you need a little shielding, sunglasses feel like they can be a layer between you and the world. They are never farther than an arms length away! (Living in the Lottie in Ganache)
Group Chats - We all have too many group chats these days (WhatsApp I’m looking at you), but for me, my group chats with any version of the word MOM in them are daily lifesavers. They’re a lifeline for help, ideas, support, a cup of sugar, or humor, and they’re right in your pocket at all times! Thank goodness!
Needlepointing - No matter how much I fight it, my anxiety has increased as I age. Lately I use needlepointing as a way to calm my mind and busy my hands while making pretty things. It helps to refocus my brain and to keep myself off my phone. In the car, in front of TV, I'm always happy to have it around.
Magnatiles - is there ANY other toy in the history of the planet that spans so many ages and spawns such creativity? I’ll be damned if there is! Nothing has ever gotten this much use in our house, or kept all kids entertained for such long periods of time. Bless this invention!
Dirty Labs - This is newer to me, but I recently bought Dirty Labs Laundry Detergent in Magnolia, Bergamot + Cedar when we needed something that was a little tougher on smells and stains then our gentle ”clean” detergent. The amazing (but not overpowering) scent that my laundry comes out with is a real mood lifter! I do about 100 loads of laundry a week, and this makes a mundane task a little bit happier which is a real win!
Lip Gloss - I wear a light version of makeup when I have the time, but often I don’t!! Keeping pretty glosses in my pockets and bags give me an extra pep, when I’m on the go.
Matching sets - Somehow even as these guys get older the morning hustle is still not easy. It used to be because they were up at the crack of dawn, and there was too much time. Now they sleep so late we’re rushing to fit dressing + breakfast in, while I thanklessly repeat myself 100 times.
Duffles - When we are on the go during summer, trying to enjoy every last second of the beautiful weather in the Northeast and beyond, we’re constantly on the road for weekends. This perfect sized kid’s duffle, makes bringing just the right amount of clothing, easy to pack in the car, and everyone having their own print means easy distribution at the beginning of a weekend, and at the end. Look out for some new prints coming soon!
Slate Milk or Olipop - It sounds silly, but I barely drink alcohol, so at the end of a long day (or sometimes in the middle!)I crave something that feels like a treat or reward. I definitely have a sweet tooth so some extra protein via Slate or an Olipop instead of a Diet Coke (which I still love and enjoy from time to time), can feel like a way to wind down and enjoy something that wont give me a headache or extra anxiety the next day.
Alo leggings + Cultr Classes - The gym is one of the only consistent things during the week that I can truly call mine. The rest of my day is dedicated to little people’s schedules + needs or work. That hour in the morning is grounding and needed and social and fun. I love my Alo leggings to the point that I don’t own any other brands, which means I’m reaching for Alo numerous times a week. They are buttery soft, high waisted, sculpting, and in great colors. They help me feel my best, when I’m working on myself. 💪🏽
Luna High Rise - I love the art of getting dressed (have for my whole life), but often I’m my last concern and left with no time. This pair of jeans has saved me for the last 6 years at least! I have them in two washes and they feel flattering and good when they’re a little tight, when they’re a little loose, when I’m running to drop off, or when I’m headed out for the night. I have also had many strangers stop to ask who makes them. I’m grateful for something I can feel good in without thinking about it. They’re not inexpensive but I swear even with two pairs my cost per wear must be down to 85 cents a wear and getting cheaper. Curious to try white for summer!
Podcasts + Audiobooks - nothing will keep you company while doing mundane tasks better. And they can feel like a great escape from the hustle. Like needlepointing, but when I need to use my hands (Laundry? Dishes? Walking?) I can laugh like I’m listening to friends, or cry alongside an author.
FAMILY - I’ll sound cheesy or obvious if I try to explain it, but I’d be remiss not to state it on a list of things I reach for every day and that help get me through all the things. ❤️