Even if you’ve already watched it, it’s worth a replay to remind yourself how important it is to keep your animals safe in the heat.
...And how fast things can get dangerous.
We’re definitely not Negative Nancies at Dooli®, but we are Realistic Ritas. ( ← Is that a thing?)
And the truth is, it’s better to be safe and prepared...than sorry. There are actually a lot of summer safety pet tips that most people would never even think of, and a couple that are downright counterintuitive.
Take a few minutes to bone up on your summertime pet safety. It could very literally save a life.
Never leave pets in a parked car in the summertime. (Nope, not even with the windows cracked.)
Dogs and cats don’t sweat (apart from a little bit from their paws). Once temperatures get above 90 degrees — which can happen in seconds-to-minutes in a parked car — they become overheated and struggle to cool off. This can lead to heat stroke, which can be deadly.
There’s really not much gray area when it comes to advice from experts here. In summer months, just don’t leave your animal in the car...even for a “hot” minute.
One of the ways dogs and cats cool themselves down is by drinking water. But in hotter months, animals also lose more water, through (warning: this is kinda gross) their saliva.
Dogs create excess saliva in hot weather because it helps dissipate heat better than just panting alone. Cats lick themselves more in the summer because it produces a cooling sensation similar to sweating in humans as it evaporates.
Producing excess saliva can dehydrate your animals. So make sure there’s plenty of fresh water available all day long.
Another way to keep your pet well-hydrated in the summer months is by adding wet food to their diets. The additional moisture helps with hydration, which can be beneficial to maintaining a healthy body temperature.
Because they can’t sweat, you need to be extra careful about exercising with your pet in the summertime. They’ll get overheated much faster, which can be extremely dangerous.
Take long walks during the early morning or late evening hours, when it’s cooled down outside. If you do go for a walk during a day, make sure to bring a water bottle and dish (here’s one we love!) Choose a route that has lots of shady options and stop often to let your pet cool down.
Summer months can be a great time to send your pet to daycare, if that’s your thing! This gives animals a chance to play and get exercise in a safer way than going on long walks in the scorching sun.
As it gets warmer outside, we want to be outside more often with pets. But don’t forget that in addition to long days and warm temps, summer also brings with it flea and tick season. If your pet isn’t on a pest preventative, now might be a good time to consider one!
Topical treatments like Frontline are popular options. If you don’t like applying liquid to your animal’s neck, you can try a flea and tick collar as an alternative.
While most vets are iffy on alternative treatments, I have a friend who swears by brewer’s yeast tablets for flea and tick prevention. (Click here for more info on brewers yeast for pets.) Always check with your vet (and your pet mama gut!) before starting any treatment, including “natural” ones.
It’s common to adjust the thermostat when you leave for work in the morning. (Energy savings and green living FTW!) But be especially mindful of your pets’ temperature needs in the summer months.
Vetstreet.com recommends keeping your home at a kinda-warm-but-still-safe temperature of 76 degrees during the day for your pets.
Also, never underestimate the power of shade. Make sure your pet has access to darker areas or cool floor surfaces like tile or concrete to sleep on during the day. Keep the curtains closed to keep our warm sunny rays.
Different animals have different needs in hot weather.
A family friend has an English bulldog, a breed that is notorious for needing annoyingly specific living conditions. But they’re SO cute, so I guess it’s worth it. :)
She actually had to get air conditioning installed in her house after getting the dog because the vet told her the dog’s health would be compromised if temperatures got too high.
Check with your vet or take to the interwebs to learn how your pet’s uniqueness (breed, coloring, weight, age, etc.) might react in the heat.
If your dog is overweight, black in color, or older, he may become hotter than the average animal in the summertime. Snub-nose breeds (like bulldogs) have specific temperature needs that need to be considered. Some coats would benefit from a super short haircut in the summer.
Work with your dog’s unique features to make hot temperatures more comfortable (and safe).
Sometimes, even our best intentions won’t keep our pets safe. Familiarize yourself with the hot weather warning signs and keep a close eye on your buddy this summer. If you see any of these symptoms after your pet has been in the heat, get your pet to the vet ASAP! You could save his/her life.
Heat stroke symptoms:
In case of emergency...
If you notice the symptoms above, call your vet immediately. In the meantime, here are a few ways you can try and reduce your pet’s temperature:
Get to a cool spot pronto. Get your pet into the shade, a cool room, on a cool surface...or if none of those is an option, at least fan some cool air his way.
Offer cool (not cold) drinking water. This is counterintuitive, but cold water constricts blood vessels which actually slows down cooling processes in the body. Offer your pet a drink of cool water immediately.
Give a cool shower. Same logic applies here — you want cool-but-not-cold water. Spray your pet down with the hose or place cool washcloths on his pets and around his head. Keep a continual stream of water going or change washcloths frequently, as heat will radiate from your pet.
The most important thing you can do as a pet mama is to be mindful in the summer.
Pay attention, take proactive steps, and know what to look out for — and enjoy the glorious warmer weather with your pet!
And for more articles on honest parenting (of the human AND pet variety) delivered straight to your inbox, click here to sign up for the Dooli® newsletter and save 25% off your first order.
]]>There’s nothing like clocking out of work on a Friday afternoon, packing up your suitcase, and jetting (or driving) off for a few days of stress-free relaxation.
Oh...unless you’re a mom. Then you’ve got stress on taps for DAYS.
Just kidding. (Sort of.) Traveling with babies can be a frantic experience. But it’s so much easier when you take a few minutes to plan!
Here are our fave pro tips to make traveling with babies a whole lot easier:
The best offense is a good...preparation. (Sports references have never been my forte.)
Check with your airline ahead of time to get their specifics on boarding policies, bassinet options, bringing breast milk in your carry-on, and other issues. (Here’s a great list of questions to ask your airline before flying with kids.)
It’s also smart to bring a little first aid kit. Hopefully, you won’t have any accidents, but you’ll sleep easier knowing you have an emergency kit, just in case. (How to DIY a first-aid travel kit.)
First off, dress your little in layers. (Is there ever an occasion when this is NOT helpful advice?) Whether you’re in a stuffy car, crowded train, or cramped airplane, layers will help your kiddo adapt to any temperature.
Also, bring items to help them adjust whether it’s too hot or too cold. A warm snuggly blanket or cooling mini fan can do wonders to keep the crankiness at bay.
If at all possible, plan your travel during your child’s sleep time. They’ll likely doze through the entire trip, making it relatively painless.
Like it is for adults, kids get grumpy if they sit in the same spot for too long. Plan pit stops into your trip if you’re driving. Look for safe, well-lit areas, preferably with outdoor space your child can run around on.
If you’re flying, take a lap around the plane every 1-2 hours. Even a 5-minute break can give your little one just enough excitement (and yes, I’m using that word very loosely) to avoid a meltdown.
One of the biggest challenges of bringing a kiddo on vacation is keeping her entertained. Wrap up toys and snacks inside your luggage to add some excitement every time you pull one out.
The act of unwrapping is a great time-filler that stretches the entertainment value.
Bonus: repurpose newspaper, sheet music, scrap paper from work (nothing confidential, obvi!) or old wrapping paper for a green touch.
Related: 10 Incredibly Chic (and Green) Gift Wrapping Ideas
If you don’t have space in your luggage for a ton of diapers, baby food, or formula, consider ordering them online and shipping directly to your vacation spot.
Sites like diapers.com and Old Faithful (amazon.com) can bring your favorite baby products right to your door...without taking up valuable space in your luggage.
Definitely be prepared in case of a late or lost delivery, like packing a day or two’s worth in your bag! And remember, anything you don’t use on the trip, you’ll likely need to bring home with you. So do your best to order only what you’ll need.
During transit, food is one of the best distractions in a mom’s arsenal. Always bring your own food and drinks to be ready the instant hunger strikes.
Pack a variety of airplane-approved snacks like dry cereals and cut-up fruit. You can’t take liquids through security so buy a bottle or two of water or juice at the terminal to bring on the plane.
Being enclosed on a plane with your little one for hours on end is the stuff of parent nightmares. Make it easier on yourself by boarding as late as possible.
I know, I know, we’re all anxious to get on the plane...but why? What do you really gain by sitting buckled up for an extra 30-45 minutes (especially with a squirmy baby).
Find out what time boarding ends. Then get something to eat, walk around the shops, treat the seating area like a jungle gym — whatever keeps your little one interested before boarding the plane.
I know that we all have our opinions about screen time. But at Dooli™, we’re Team Screen whenever it improves your overall quality of life. (And that’s definitely the case for long trips.)
Load a few episodes of your child’s favorite program onto an iPad. Download some fun baby apps on your smartphone. (Click here from Parent Magazine’s top apps for babies and toddlers.) Bust out the portable DVD player and some Moana.
And for the love of Sophie the Giraffe, make sure your gadgets are fully charged! You may even want to bring a portable charger to make sure you won’t lose power during the trip.
If your little one will be sleeping in a travel cot or crib, don’t let the first time they try it be on vacation!
A few weeks before you leave, start familiarizing your baby with the new item. Try a few naps or even a full night’s sleep in the travel bed so they get comfortable.
And don’t forget to pack any items that your child associates with sleep! Special blankets, stuffed animals, music, etc. — anything that helps your little one sleep soundly will make the travel bed feel more familiar.
You made it to your destination in one piece — woohoo!
That frosty spicy margarita at the hotel bar is calling your name. But it’s so worth it to take 15 minutes to unpack your baby’s stuff and set up your room first.
Unpack your playpen or travel crib. Put your child’s toys, books, and gadgets together, preferably on a low shelf or area where they’re easy to access. Put bottles, formula, and snacks in one space. (The best spot for this might be near the bathroom sink!)
Set up a makeshift diaper changing station (a disposable changing pad is great for this!) with easy access to diapers, wipes, and creams. And put baby clothes in a drawer or a certain section of the closet.
Unpacking is a little thing that can make a big difference. When you’ve got a poo emergency, you’ll be happy to have everything organized, instead of rummaging through your bottomless Longchamp bag praying for a wipe.
Above all else, go into your trip knowing it will probably be different than your adult-only vacations. Adjust your expectations and be flexible to rolling with the punches of traveling with kids.
You’ll make some amazing memories together — let THAT be your focus instead of the potential hiccups that come up along the way.
]]>...Are your eyes as big as ours on that one?
From school tuition to clothes to food (ask the mom of a teenager how much food they go through!) the dollar signs add up faster than Weight Watchers points at a fondue restaurant.
That’s why every dollar matters. Smart decisions now can mean a much more manageable financial picture in the long run. And when you’re at the beginning of an expensive 18-year journey, you’ve got to think about the long run!
Here are our favorite tips to save money with your newborn, without sacrificing any important part of the magical first-year experience:
Not only will you be SO in the zeitgeist, you’ll save a ton of money by choosing gender-neutral baby clothing
This is most obviously helpful if you’re planning to have more than one baby, so you can reuse the clothes. But you’ll also find you can make so many more outfit combinations if you stick with a more limited color palette.
Neutral colors also happen to be really trendy right now. Just pop into a Madewell or Everlane and see how many bright colors you see. (Spoiler alert: uh, none.) You’d be amazed at how chic a combination of whites, grays, blacks, beiges, and blues can be.
Breastfeeding is a deeply personal choice and there are all sorts of considerations when choosing what to feed your baby. But you can’t deny that breastfeeding is the cheapest (read: free) baby food available.
Baby formula costs around $150/month...up to $400/month if you need a hypoallergenic formula. Whereas nursing costs exactly $0.
Of course, there may be costs associated with breastfeeding as well, such as lactation consultants, nursing bras, etc. Before you pay someone, check out free options in your area. Your hospital may also offer breastfeeding classes or there may be free breastfeeding organizations nearby.
Shopping at a thrift store, on eBay, or through apps like Poshmark can save you a ton of money. But what are the best items to do this for?
One tip for most of these items: make sure they haven’t been recalled since they were created. Safety first! www.recalls.gov is a great resource for this.
You’ll get so many gifts during your pregnancy and the early days of motherhood. Be clear on what you need and what you don’t so you can (gratefully) return any unnecessary items to use the money on something you do need.
Many stores have limited return policies, so make sure to return items promptly. If you’re too busy, this can be a great task to outsource to a partner or family member who’s itching to help!
Whenever possible, opt for cash over store credit — it gives you more freedom.
If they’ll only reimburse with store credit and there’s nothing else you need from the store, consider whether you could gift it to another mama in your network. (Hello, easy baby shower gift!) Or you could try a website like cardpool.com to sell your gift card.
Real talk: A Diaper Genie® isn’t so much a luxury as a necessity. In our book, it’s one of those necessary luxuries that makes life with a little one so, so much easier.
But, also real talk: the bag refills are pricey! And complicated. (And what’s with the weird never-ending tube of plastic that pulls out to infinity and beyond?)
Skip the expensive refills and use your own bags! Give new life to your plastic bags from the grocery store, mall, or that recent trip to Tar-jay. (What? Hearth & Hand has a new summer line.)
Do the math:
You can spend $12.99 on a Dooli™ Diaper Genie® Refill Adapter and use your own bags FOR THE REST OF TIME.
And bonus points? By using a Dooli™ Bag Adapter, you’re doing a solid for the environment. Every Dooli™ Adapter will save 16 or more plastic refill rings in two years.
Before you drop hundreds on that baby music class or yoga workshop, consider any free options that are available.
You’ll probably be shocked to find your library or other local agencies offer free classes that are every bit as fun as the expensive ones.
You can always opt for unstructured fun, too. With the rise of slow parenting, many believe unstructured play is the best way for babies to develop creativity and crucial skills. So skip the pricey classes and take a leisurely walk in nature instead. Your baby will love it just as much and could get even more benefits.
You might feel like a cheapo for ten seconds, but you could save a lot of money by asking for samples. (Hey, it never hurts to ask!)
At the hospital, at your pediatrician’s office, and at baby supply stores, always ask if there are any free samples available. Most hospitals have a free take-home kit that includes items like diapers, swaddling cloth, alcohol swabs, and bottles — but only if you ask. And many doctors have sample cans of formula.
Most online stores offer an introductory coupon code if you sign up to their email list. (Shameless plug: Sign up for our mailing list to save 25% off your first order!).
Keep an eye on this email address for special offers and stock up when the savings are great.
Also, if you don’t already have it, download the Honey app. (I’ll wait.) This smart little plugin applies ALL applicable coupons every time you’re checking out online!
According to mint.com, you can save around $400 per year by making your own baby food. Plus, you get the added benefit of knowing exactly what goes into your little one’s food.
This option does involve a little bit of extra work. But products like the Baby Bullet make it a lot easier to make your own food.
This is another task you can outsource to a partner or a willing loved one. If you drop off the groceries and the tools, many people may be happy to help out.
Every parent places importance on different things.
Save your pennies on the things that don’t matter all that much to you...and you’ll have more freedom to invest in the things that DO matter.
What are your best money-saving tips for a newborn? Let us know in the comments!
Just clip the Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter to use ANY plastic bag in your diaper pail. Better for your wallet, better for the environment.
]]>They make healthy living easier and there’s just nothing like a home-cooked meal with food fresh from the market.
But I’ll be honest...sometimes the farmers’ market can be a little intimidating.
From the huge crowds of people…
To not wanting to peeve vendors if you ask too many questions…
To the age-old dilemma of exactly how many baguettes you can fit into your bag… :)
There are a lot of areas where navigating the farmers' market isn’t quite so idyllic.
Today, we’ve got 8 tips to help you save money, find the best products, and enjoy the farmers' market experience a lot more.
It’s frustrating when you’ve stocked up on fresh basil, only to find fresher, cheaper, more fragrant bunches at the end of the market.
Before taking out your wallet, take a quick lap around the entire market.
You’ll learn what type of vendors are present, see prices, and generally get a lay of the land before committing to anything. Once you know the hot spots to hit, go back through and make your purchases.
It’s always helpful to go into the market knowing what’s in season. You’re likely to get the best deals on in-season produce, plus it’s the tastiest it will ever be!
Not on top of your seasonal produce? Neither are we. :) Just use this handy guide from the USDA to see what’s in season now.
You also want to be mindful when handling delicate fruit at the stalls. Squeezing a soft plum, for example, could cause visible bruising and make it harder for farmers to sell in a few hours.
Instead of squeezing the produce, here’s another way to test for ripeness: just hold up the fruit and smell close to the stem. Or, ask the farmer when the produce will be ripe and ready to eat.
A lot of people are intimidated to talk to the farmers. But most are actually excited to nerd out about farming with you!
If you’re curious about anything — growing practices, animal diets, organic standards — wait until the farmer has a quiet minute and then ask your question. Try not to keep them from other paying customers if possible.
No matter what the farmer says, be polite and respond with a smile. If you’re looking for grass-fed beef and the farmer’s cattle eat corn, no need to explain yourself. Just smile and say “thanks, have a nice day!” before leaving the stall.
Getting your produce officially certified as organic is expensive. And for many small farms, it’s simply not a cost they can afford.
If organic is important to you, don’t be turned off by the absence of a USDA seal! Some farms use organic practices but just can’t afford to get certified.
The only way to know for sure is to talk to the farmers. Ask how they manage pests, what type of fertilizers they use, and their thoughts on organic farming to start a conversation.
At the farmers' market (and any small business, really) vendors appreciate paying in cash. Small bills are especially valuable!
Thanks to services like Square and Paypal, many farmers' markets accept credit cards nowadays. But you can bestow a little kindness and save the hardworking farmers the 3% processing fee by paying in cash.
Bonus: bringing a finite amount of cash prevents you from overspending...a very real danger when surrounded by gelato stands and taco carts. (Not like I speak from experience or anything.)
Most farmers' markets are slowest right when they open, so early morning is generally a good time to avoid the crowd. But every market is different!
Test out different times for your first couple of trips and see which slots you prefer.
You’ll have more opportunities to talk to the farmers and take your time at the stalls if you go during slower times. Or, if you love the energy of a bustling market, you can go during busier times. Your call!
BYOB
No, not booze...bags! Most markets don’t provide their own carrier bags, plus being eco-friendly is in line with the general ethos of the farmers' market.
Click here for some of our favorite reusable bags. (Trust me, these bags are so cute, you’re going to look for excuses to use them!)
Generally, the farmers' market isn’t a place you want to barter. Farmers work incredibly hard and it’s polite to respect their asking prices.
That being said, if you like to negotiate, closing time is usually your best bet. Farmers are unlikely to sell their ripest produce once the market closes, so they’ll be most willing to make a deal right before they close up.
Another opportunity to save is if you notice items that are obviously damaged or low quality. You can point out the damage (in a polite way) and make the farmer an offer.
Some farmers will cut you a deal if you order in bulk. If you want to buy a large quantity, talk to the farmer in advance and ask if you can get a discount for a large order.
One of the best parts about the farmers' market is the human-to-human connection.
It’s a really nice touch to follow up with farmers and tell them how you used their products. Gushing about the delicious blueberry crisp you made your in-laws using their berries or the succulent burgers you grilled up with their meat reminds them of the impact they’re making with their work — something we all love to feel.
What are your best tips for the farmers’ market? Let us know in the comments!
Our compatible bag adapters for Diaper Genie® and Litter Genie® allow you to use ANY bag in your pail.
Give second life to plastic bags from the market, the mall, Target, anywhere! Just snap it into the Dooli™ Bag Adapter and you’re good to go!
]]>There’s nothing better than having your cat or dog curl up next to you in bed at the end of a long, stressful workday.
But when you wake up to a pile of vomit...on the white carpet...on a morning when you overslept before an important meeting…
Being a pet mom isn’t quite so glamorous, right?
The U.S. pet industry has exploded in recent years, now around $70 billion strong. But there are still some major gaps in the market and a whole bunch of products that only exist in our wildest dreams.
Read through for a list of the pet products we wish existed...and the closest solutions to help us out in the meantime.
When you’re in the heart of the springtime shed and cat fur is EVERYWHERE (even in the fridge)...
When you vacuum up enough fur to make a blanket…
When you haven’t worn black clothing for years because no lint roller can control the cat hair…
That’s when this product comes in.
Imagine a magnet that effortlessly attracts every piece of cat hair within your house. As soon as it comes off your cat, it whooshes over to the magnet. Amazing, right?
Closest product match: The OXO FurLifter line
We love that this product is eco-friendly. It uses a microfiber surface to attract cat hair, instead of wasteful sticky sheets.
The best part is that it’s self-cleaning. Just pop the wand into the base and it emerges completely clean. When the base gets full, just pull off the base and remove the clump of hair. Easy!
Feeding a varied group of pets at home can be painful.
When you’ve got one cat on a renal diet, one that needs food for dental hygiene, and a kitten needing kitten food, it can get out of control really quickly.
It would be awesome to have a product that delivers the right food, in the right amount, to the right cat. And while we’re at it, let’s find a way to remove the possibility of babies or toddlers eating out of the cat bowl!
Closest product match: SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder
The SureFeed scans a pet’s microchip and dispenses the correct type of food based on their ID.
Reviews say that it’s best to get each cat their own feeder, though. Our dream product is one food bowl that can be used for everyone, but this is pretty darn close!
How amazing would it be if your dog or cat’s poo could be erased with a single spray? If you could just direct your nozzle toward the turd and pshhhhh! GONE.
In our dreams, this product would also double as a vomit vanisher. And hairball vanisher. And every-other-animal-bodily-fluid vanisher. (I mean, why not? It’s our fantasy.)
Closest product match: Litter Genie® Compatible Bag Refills
You can’t make poo disappear but you can vanish odors! Our bags have 7-layer odor barriers so smells are completely contained within your litter pail.
Is there anything worse than looking into your pet’s sad eyes when you leave for the day?
It would be amazing to have some kind of product to keep them company and play with them while you’re gone. We’d feel so much less guilt if there were a hologram or robot or animatronic gizmo that kept them company when we’re not around.
Closest product match: PetChatz Digital Daycare
PetChatz’s two-way video chat feature is just where it starts.
The product has a treat dispenser, games to keep your pet entertained, even aromatherapy to calm an anxious dog. PetChatz can also record their activity during the day...so you’ll finally get a glimpse of what they actually do when you’re not home!
Since seeing the dog collar in the movie Up — the one that spoke his thoughts aloud — we’ve been dreaming of this product.
Whether you want to know if something’s wrong with your pet’s health…
Hear their thoughts about everyday things like their food or toys...
Or simply know what’s going on inside their furry little heads…
A mind-reading device would basically be the best pet product ever.
(Unless our pets say they don’t want us to cuddle them so much. Then the collar needs to go.)
Closest product match: There are products like Bow Lingual and Meow Lingual that claim to interpret your pet’s sounds and behavior. But honestly? There’s nothing we’ve found that seems to follow through on those promises.
If you’re really dying to know your pet’s thoughts, maybe a trip to the pet psychic is in order? (If nothing else, you’ll get some good stories out of it!)
Dooli™ products are designed to make the reality of pet odors much easier.
Our Litter Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter allows you to use any bag to refill your Litter Genie® — so reuse your plastic shopping bags to give them new life.
Or, try the Litter Genie® Compatible Bag Refills with seven layers of odor-blocking technology to keep smells completely contained.
]]>But when you’re a mom of a newborn? Mother’s Day is probably the last thing on your mind. You’ve got about a thousand other things that demand your attention...and that’s just before lunch.
Maybe you’re even tempted to skip Mother’s Day altogether.
After all, you’re doing the hardest job on the planet: raising a tiny human! Who cares if you let this one Hallmark occasion slide, right?
Well, we agree...and we also don’t.
Moments of reflection are SO important. And we believe that every mom deserves a little somethin’ somethin’ to acknowledge all her hard work on Mother’s Day.
So let us make it easy for you to cross this one off your to-do list...
Just forward this to a loved one in your life give them a gentle nudge that I’m raising a tiny human and you should do something nice for me, k?
Partners, friends, family members: this is for YOU.
Here are 6 ideas for simple but meaningful ways to make the new mom in your life feel valued this Mother’s Day. They’re all low-cost (sometimes no cost) and low-work, but extremely high value.
(And, heads-up, we’re going to use the term “wife” in this article, for simplicity — although we know there are also friends, parents, siblings, etc. reading this, too!)
(Source: ziploc.com)
One of my friends recently did this and her husband (who’s not an overly touchy-feely guy) absolutely loved it. He said it’s one of the best gifts he’s ever received.
In our busy world, we often don’t have time to let our loved ones know what we value, admire, and treasure about them. This gift gives you that opportunity.
Take a deck of cards and write one thing you love about your wife on each card. These can be big things or small things, deep-and-meaningful things or silly things.
Really take some time to think of 52 things you love and write (or print — here’s a template!) them out.
This gift is great to give her a dose of love on Mother’s Day, but she can also pull them out when she’s having a hard day. It’s a lifelong reminder of how amazing she is — which is a pretty amazing benefit for a gift the price of a pack of cards!
At the top of most mom’s to-do lists is figuring out what to eat for dinner...and then cooking that dish.
We know that offering to cook dinner every night isn’t always realistic, if you work outside the home or travel often. You can still make her week easier by stocking the freezer with a week’s worth of freezer meals.
No, we don’t mean buying a bunch of Lean Cuisine! Actually cook these meals with your own two hands — there’s nothing better than food prepared by someone you love.
Not sure where to find freezer meal recipes?
All you have to do is go to Pinterest.com and search for “freezer meals”. You can customize it to suit your wife’s preferences with things like “vegetarian freezer meals”, “gluten-free freezer meals”, “all-natural freezer meals”...you get the idea.
You’ll get a huge list of options. Just click through until you find a few that fit your budget and eating style, and cook away!
Ask a new mom what she fantasizes about most and you probably won’t hear anything about exotic vacations or fancy nights out. It’ll be more like, “I just really want one hour where I don’t have to answer to anybody else.”
Most moms feel guilty taking time to themselves. Break that line of thinking this Mother’s Day by giving her some me time.
Write a card that tells your wife you see how hard she’s working and you want to give her some time to put herself first every week.
Look at your schedule and see what feels realistic. Where do you have a block of time when you can take over everything that normally happens during that slot? Think beyond just childcare and factor in the cleaning, cooking, and anything else your wife would normally be doing.
Schedule that appointment into both your calendars to make it happen.
Don’t underestimate this time! Even two hours per week can help reduce stress, improve mood, and generally make your wife feel like a human being again instead of simply a baby-raising machine. Encourage her to use those glorious hours intentionally — to read, take a bath, grab lunch with girlfriends, whatever she wants.
Remember back in high school, when the most meaningful thing you could do for your girlfriend was to make her a playlist? Why did we ever stop doing that?
Make your wife a playlist this Mother’s Day for a burst of nostalgia and meaning, all wrapped up into one.
Use Spotify or Google Play to create a personalized playlist. You can add in different types of songs:
Bonus points if you throw in a few songs she’s mentioned she loves! We all long to feel understood and important, so if you show her you remember her favorite tunes, she’ll know you’ve been paying attention to her.
To make it even sweeter, write out why you included each song so she’ll know the meaning behind your choices.
(Source: shannonbrown.typepad.com)
This gift is a great way to show you prioritize your wife as your wife, rather than just a mother.
Brainstorm a few fun date night ideas and make an envelope for each one. Include instructions on what you’ll be doing, any necessary maps, gift cards, etc. so all your wife has to do is say “yes”.
You can keep your budget low if you get creative! Things like movie night at home with her favorite candy in the envelope, a walking tour of your hometown, or an afternoon at a bookstore she loves are all nearly free ideas that still feel special. (Click here for more date night ideas.)
The beauty behind this gift is the thoughtfulness. Moms have so much on their minds that it’s nice when someone else works out the details.
If this is for someone who isn’t your wife, think of activities she can do on her own. A gift card to her favorite lunch spot, a solo afternoon at the movies, a coupon for a full day of babysitting...there are plenty of ways you tweak this gift to work!
When all else fails, go with the tried-and-true approach...
Waking up to a pre-cooked breakfast, from the comfort of a cozy bed, is HEAVEN.
All you need is a sturdy breakfast tray (because coffee spills on the comforter are never a good idea) and your wife’s favorite breakfast.
Whether you cook something from scratch or pick up croissants from her favorite cafe, the effort will absolutely be appreciated all the same.
And don’t think you need to make it complicated! There’s serious beauty in the simplicity of a good cup of coffee, sliced fruit, and two slices of buttered toast. Don’t overthink it. :)
Moms are a special breed. They work tirelessly and don’t ask for much thanks. You’ll be surprised at how far a few dollars and a little bit of time can go.
Pick one of these ideas and pour your heart into it. You never know how much it will mean!
I’m not a mom yet (our little guy arrives next month!) but I can say that I would be over-the-moon to receive any one of these gifts next year.
And on that note, I’m off to forward this to my husband, to get a jump start on next Mother’s Day. :)
The Dooli™ Diaper Genie® compatible products were designed to make moms’ lives a little easier.
Our Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter allows you to use ANY bag in your house and our Bag Refills use seven layers of odor-locking technology to keep your home smelling fresh.
Enjoy 15% off this Mother’s Day with the coupon code FORMOM15. (Expires Monday 5/14/18).
]]>Saving CO2 emissions by biking to work is awesome...but sitting through work smelling like your gym isn’t. And while we totally see the merit in “if it’s yellow, let it mellow,” knowing our pee’s sitting in the toilet for hours just makes our skin crawl.
The challenge of taking better care of our planet feels so big. And sometimes, it feels like we’re too small to really make a difference, anyway.
Add to that the stresses and hassles of daily life, and it’s no wonder that most of us aren’t doing as much as we want to.
The good news? Little things CAN make a big difference.
The even better news? Many of those little things can fit seamlessly into your real-world routine and won’t require you to make any drastic changes.
In honor of Earth Day on Sunday, April 22, here are three easy ways you can do your part to take care of the planet, starting today.
Fun fact: I trained at the International Culinary Center and my last job involved interviewing Michelin-rated chefs. So when I saw Anthony Bourdain’s new documentary Wasted! on Netflix, I couldn’t watch it fast enough.
I expected to be wowed by the food. I didn’t expect to become a composting fanatic.
After learning how much food waste ends up in our landfills (according to the EPA, wasted food is also the single biggest component in American landfills), I knew I needed to make a change. After doing a little research, I saw just how easy composting is.
At the end of a meal, my husband and pour our food scraps (including coffee grounds!) into Dooli™ 7-Layer bag that we keep in the freezer. The Dooli™ bags keep the smells contained and storing them in the freezer keeps the food from rotting before we can dispose of it.
When the bag gets full, we just walk it down the street and pour it into the community compost bin. Done and done!
The difference you’ll make: The average person wastes about 209-253 pounds of food per year. Granted, not all of that can be composted...but a two-person household could save hundreds of pounds in landfills just by saving their food scraps over a year.
To learn more about composting, check out this great podcast episode.
How to get started today: Google “community compost bin in [[your town]]” to find a local food scrap bin. At your next meal, save your food scraps (click here for a handy guide on what you can and can’t compost) and store in the freezer until it’s full.
Plastic drinking straws are a sneaky culprit. They’re so small and light that most of us don’t think twice about using one in a cocktail or iced coffee.
A few forward-thinking bars and restaurants are starting to use paper straws or a per-request policy, with great results. (L.A.’s Harvard & Stone bar noted a 30% decrease in straw use when patrons had to ask!) But it’s still the cultural norm for bartenders, baristas, and servers to give you a straw in your drink.
Until restaurants change their behaviors, make the first move and opt out of receiving a plastic straw.
The difference you’ll make: If you cut down by just three cocktail straws per week, that’s 156 straws over the year.
How to get started today: The next time you order a drink, just say “No straw, thanks!”
Keep in mind, once a straw’s been unwrapped, most establishments will throw it away for hygiene reasons. So make sure to make your no-straw request while ordering.
At home, you can also switch to paper straws or reusable metal or glass straws to reduce plastic waste.
Standard polyethylene bags (the ones often used in grocery stores and other shops) don't biodegrade. The scientific community estimates that it takes somewhere between 500-1000 years for plastic bags like these to fragment — the only way they break down.
Basically...plastic + landfills = no bueno. If we all do a small part to cut down on the amount we contribute, we can make a huge difference.
The next time you’re offered a plastic bag, ask yourself: do I really need this? Or...
Can I carry the item on its own?
Can I put it in my purse?
Can I combine smaller items (like individual pieces of fruit) into one big bag, instead of having lots of little ones?
Once you see how many cute reusable bag options there are, you’ll actually WANT to use your own bag. Here are a few of our favorites:
Simple cotton netting bags for groceries and other shopping. (Source: Amazon)
These impossibly adorable cloth bread and bakery bags (Source: Peg and Awl on Etsy)
Bags you can roll up and store in your purse, so you’ll always have one on hand (Source: Amazon)
The difference you’ll make: If you save four plastic bags during your weekly grocery trip, that’s 208 plastic bags that won’t end up in the landfill this year.
And it’s not just grocery bags…
Think about how many plastic bags you get from the bookstore, clothing stores, toiletry shops, liquor stores, etc. You can easily save ten bags a week!
How to get started today: The easy answer: bring a reusable bag with you on your next shopping trip.
But in the real world, you’ll inevitably get stuck at the store without a reusable bag one day.
When that happens, commit to finding at least ONE way to reuse that bag. Use it as packing material when mailing a delicate item, wrap a gift with it (a little pretty ribbon can go a LONG way in dressing it up!) or re-use it with the Dooli™ Bag Adapter to refill your Litter Genie®.
More real talk: the earth needs a lot of help. But that doesn’t mean we have to throw up our hands and lament about it.
You have the power to keep hundreds of pounds of waste out of our landfills this year by making a few small changes.
Commit to trying out just one of these strategies this week and see how easy it is! If we all make little changes, together we’ll make a big difference.
Sometimes, you have no choice but to use a plastic bag. That’s where the Dooli™ bag adapters come in!
This clever little adapter lets you use ANY bag in your Litter Genie® or Diaper Genie® so you get double the use out of your plastic bags, which is a big “thank you” to Mother Nature.
]]>And now? We treat our beloved four-legged friends like this:
Pets are a cherished part of the family and our homes naturally reflect that. But there’s one question that causes many an argument in the pet lover community:
Should your pet sleep in bed with you?
It’s a highly personal choice, with enthusiastic supporters on both sides of the Petco aisle.
Is it right for you? Here are 6 questions to help you decide whether co-sleeping with pets is a good fit:
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 3 out of 10 people have cat or dog allergies. Of course, if you’re allergic to your pet, you probably don’t want him/her sleeping in bed with you (or even the bedroom, if you’re highly allergic.)
But that’s not the only kind of allergy we mean...
Pets can carry all sorts of allergens around with them. After a romp in a cobwebbed corner or a run through the woods, your pet will pick up things like dust and pollen and carry them around in his/her fur. Even if you’re not allergic to pet dander, you may find that you’re itchy or sneezy or congested when snuggling with your pet in bed.
If you have allergies, asthma, or a weakened immune system, your body may benefit from a break from your pet while sleeping every night. (If you want to co-sleep despite allergies, consider using a HEPA filter to help you breathe easier.)
Our pets sleep differently than we do, which can cause issues. Dogs, for example, tend to be lighter sleepers and often respond to sounds that humans don’t notice. Pets can also make noise in their sleep and move while dreaming, which can disturb (and highly amuse!) their humans.
Sleep is so important, impacting everything from our mood to weights to decision-making abilities. If you find yourself waking up in the morning exhausted after co-sleeping with your pet, consider moving your pet to their own bed — or at the very least, using a white noise machine to drown out pet noises.
On the flipside, some report sleeping better with a pet in the bed.
Maybe it’s knowing you’ve got a protective guardian with you, maybe it’s your pet’s warmth and rhythmic breathing, or maybe it just makes you feel fuzzy inside knowing your pet gets to spend quality time with you for a few hours a night...
Whatever the reason, if it’s enhancing your sleep quality to snooze with a pet, by all means, keep doing it!
Some animal trainers warn that letting your pet sleep on the bed with you gives them unhealthy boundaries and can disrupt the owner/pet dynamic. But most modern trainers say this thinking is only half-true.
If you bring a dog with dominance issues into the bed with you, for example, that can further confuse the dog into knowing who’s boss. However, co-sleeping with well-behaved pets who understand the pecking order usually doesn’t cause many additional behavioral issues.
At the slightest hint of aggression or dominant behavior, most people choose to remove the pet from the bed. It’s is a symptom of a bigger dominance issue but removing your pet from the bed is a good first step to re-establish balance.
Additionally, think about whether your pet has other unwanted behaviors that would make sleeping on the bed problematic. A pet with a weak bladder or itchy skin problems is probably not the #1 bedmate. And if you know your pet’s likely to rip up the Parachute sheets you just splurged on, it’s probably best to keep him/her out of the bed.
Everybody’s got their own comfort level when it comes to pets in the bedroom. Some couples want pets completely out of the room, others are happy with pets on the floor, and others are cool with pets in the bed.
Take your partner’s wants into account and honor the minimal comfort level of both parties.
If you do decide to have your pet sleep in bed with you, it’s best if your pet doesn’t physically sleep between you and your partner at night. Physical closeness helps maintain emotional closeness, so train your pet to sleep at the foot or the side of the bed.
If you’re already co-sleeping with kids, it’s safest not to add pets in the mix. The bed’s already crowded enough!
Many vets recommend not letting pets sleep in kids’ beds, either. We know plenty of people who grew up with pets sleeping at the foot of their bed — but generally speaking, it’s safer to keep kids and pets separate while sleeping.
Don’t forget, your pet might not want to sleep with you. Some animals prefer their own space at night.
Take cues from your cat or dog and don’t force it if they show a preference for sleeping alone. And do your best not to take it personally if this is the case (easier said than done!)
Transitioning pets away from your bed takes a little work, but it’s doable!
First, commit to very clear boundaries to re-train your pet. If one owner says “yes” while the other says “no”, or if you sometimes allow your pet on the bed, he’ll never learn the new rules. Keep it all-or-nothing.
Pick a new sleeping spot for your pet, whether it’s their own pet bed, the couch, or a pillow on the floor. Make this spot comfortable by laying a worn t-shirt (so it smells like you), drop in a few of their favorite treats, sprinkle in some catnip for cats. This helps pets make positive associations with the new spot and feel familiar.
The next time your pet jumps on your bed, lure them to the new spot with treats and give them plenty of praise when they step on their new bed. Don’t give them ANY attention while on your bed; only show affection while on the new bed.
Stay patient and understand that re-training takes time! It can take days or weeks or months for your pet to re-learn sleeping behaviors and to enjoy their new spot. Stay consistent and you’ll get there!
Pets are family...but they’re not always the easiest to live with! That’s why we designed our Litter Genie® compatible products.
Use the Litter Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter to install ANY bag with the litter disposal system. Or pick up our 7-layer Litter Genie® Compatible Bag Refills to keep odors locked away and your home smelling fresh.]]>That was my reaction to the first pregnancy test I took.
Before it finished developing, I ripped into a new box to test again. Test #2 came up positive.
To make sure they weren’t defective, I took one two more...just to be safe.
Sure enough, all four were positive.
I was starting to think it might be true, I might actually be pregnant, and had overwhelming and intense feelings of:
It was like I finally won the prize in a contest I’ve been tirelessly entering for the past several months with no luck. I felt on top of the world!
And then?
...The questions started.
So many thoughts raced through my head after seeing the positive pregnancy tests. Logical questions, nonsensical questions, cheese-related questions...basically #allofthequestions.
In talking with fellow preggos, I realized a lot of these questions weren’t as random as I thought! They were actually pretty common.
To save you the hassle of Googling yourself silly, here are answers to the 8 questions that go through your mind when you find out you’re pregnant:
My first question was whether this was true — whether I was actually pregnant.
What I later learned is that it’s rare, though not impossible, for a pregnancy test to show a false positive.
Most over-the-counter pregnancy tests detect the presence of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is basically only present if you’re pregnant. (Although some fertility treatments can increase your hCG levels.)
It’s much more likely to have a false negative than a false positive when it comes to pregnancy tests. It’s easier for a test to miss existing hCG (false negative) than to detect something that’s not there to begin with (false positive).
That being said, it’s always a good idea to take more than one pregnancy test. The more positives you get, the likelier it is that you’re actually pregnant.
And the next step? Patience.
Waiting for that first doctor's appointment can feel like an eternity, but when it comes and you see that little heartbeat, you can breathe your first sigh of relief.
When my home tests showed I was pregnant, I immediately called the OB to set up a blood test to confirm. They’d need a blood test to be sure, right?
Nope!
The receptionist asked me how many pregnancy tests I took at home. When I said “four,” they responded: “Yeah, we don’t need your blood. Congratulations, you’re pregnant!”
I ended up going to my general doctor for peace of mind. But all she did was have me pee in a cup and take yet another pregnancy test.
I covered all the bases and no one wanted my blood. Looks like at-home pee tests are the winner here!
I assumed my doctor would want a check-up as soon as possible to make sure everything was going okay with the pregnancy. But that wasn’t the case, either.
Most doctors don’t want to see you until you’re well into your first trimester, around 7-9 weeks (every pregnancy is different, though.) Before that time, there isn’t much for the doctors to see.
I honestly couldn’t wait until nine weeks to go to the doctor. While you’re waiting for that first OB appointment, here’s a great resource on what to expect at every doctor’s appointment to help you prepare.
The thought of waiting five weeks after finding out I was pregnant was absolute torture. It was terrifying! You don’t feel anything at that point so I counted the days until I could see the OB and find out whether our pregnancy progressed and our baby had a heartbeat.
As for what to do before your first OB appointment…
Every pregnancy is different so ask your doctor what to do prior to your first visit to keep your baby healthy.
Your doc may give specific guidelines or it may be nothing particularly special. I was told to “maintain my normal routine” until I saw the doctor.
You’ll want to start taking prenatal vitamins and avoid the foods on the no-no list (see below!)
Exercise is on a case-by-case basis — your doctor will give you details on what you can/can’t do. (Here’s a great article on the dos and don’ts of pregnancy workouts.)
Other than that, take care of yourself! Do your best to keep stress levels low. Get enough sleep. And when in doubt, ask your doctor if there’s anything else you should be doing.
Not gonna lie, I spent a lot of time puffing my belly out in front of the mirror in the early days of pregnancy!
You can find sources online that tell you a woman with a healthy weight will usually gain 25-35 pounds, or that the lower your BMI before getting pregnant, the more weight you’ll gain during a healthy pregnancy.
But (extremely important point alert!) every woman is different.
Some women will gain 50 pounds while eating healthy and working out. Others may gain 20 eating whatever they want and doing zero exercise.
Every body is different and as long as your doctor isn’t worried about your weight gain, you shouldn’t be either!
My husband Tim and I go out for pizza at least once a week and I wasn’t sure if I could eat my beloved pepperoni and soppressata anymore.
While pregnant, everything you ingest (by eating, drinking, breathing, and through your skin) gets passed on to the baby. So you have to be extra careful about what you put in and on your body.
A general list of foods to avoid:
Related Post: Pregnant Mamas, Rejoice! 6 Breakfasts to Boost Your Energy...Without Coffee
Unlike while breastfeeding, you want to avoid ALL alcohol while pregnant. Although some people may tell you it’s fine to have a glass of wine, there just aren't sufficient studies on the effects of small doses of alcohol on a fetus. We feel better safe than sorry!
Same goes for smoking cigarettes. And any kind of drug is a no-no as well. (Goes without saying, right?)
Traditionally, you can find out your baby’s gender during the mid-pregnancy ultrasound, around 18-22 weeks. We found out our baby’s gender at the 19-week mark.
One word of advice? If you want it to be a surprise, make sure to look away when the sonographer tells you to!
When ours said, “Okay, I’m about to look at the sex,” it was like staring at a bright light. I couldn’t turn away.
And before I knew what was happening, I was staring at what was very obviously an ultrasound of my SON, without any second chance or warning.
So...yeah. If you don’t want to know, listen to the sonographer the first time!
If you want to know sooner, modern medical technology lets you find out your baby’s gender as early as nine weeks. Blood tests like the Panorama prenatal screening check for a variety of factors, including genetic abnormalities and gender. If you’re over 35 years old, your health insurance may pay for those tests; if you’re under 35, you can choose to pay out of pocket.
As for how it will change, that one’s up to you both.
It’s important to think in advance about what you want out of being parents, what kind of support you need from one another, and what roles you want to play.
Nine months of pregnancy gives you plenty of time to talk with your partner. Being honest and upfront about these ideas gives you space to come up with a game plan for how you can work together in this new, amazing, exciting challenge.
There are so many questions that go through your mind when you find out you’re pregnant. But the one that feels the heaviest is...
Something I’ve realized in talking to a lot of moms is that none of us feel truly 100% ready.
The next nine months will be a big change, for sure.
But you’ve got this. Your body is made for this. Take it day by day, listen to the people who love you best (your doctors and family), and above all, listen to your gut. Mama’s intuition is a real thing...and it kicks in quick.
This one’s totally up to you! Some moms like to get Pinterest-boarding right away, others wait until the nesting drive kicks in, and others wait until baby’s home to organize the nursery.
But a word of advice? Give yourself plenty of time for furniture deliveries. It can take anywhere from 4-10 weeks, and that’s not taking into account products that come damaged and need to be replaced. (Speaking from personal experience here.)
In any case, the Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter is a great addition to any nursery. This handy little tool lets you use ANY bag inside your Diaper Genie®, instead of being tied to the manufacturer’s refill bags.
According to the Center for American Progress, nearly 4/10th of homes have a working mother and women now make up half of all workers in the U.S.
When you become a mom, your life changes in so many ways. What once seemed like a healthy work/life balance can start to feel out of whack after becoming a parent. Many moms are looking to readjust the career sails during this new, baby-filled phase of life.
The good news is that many employers are open to changes that better serve you as a mom. But it’s up to you to boldly go after that new balance for yourself.
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind as you negotiate a better balance at work:
HR managers unanimously agree: most companies would rather keep a good employee than have to find a new one. There’s much more wiggle room in your contact than you probably realize.
As long as you’re respectful, asking to renegotiate your contract to include some mom-related perks is perfectly okay! It can be uncomfortable to have that initial conversation, but it’s so worth it.
Think about it…
The worst that can happen is your employer says “no”...and then your life quickly goes back to exactly the same as it is now.
The best that can happen? Is that you get exactly what you ask for.
Downside: zero. Potential upside: a million bazillion.
If you find fear creeping in when you think about negotiating, try thinking of it as a collaboration instead. Both parties want the same thing, after all: to keep your brilliant mom-self happily working for their company.
Motherhood affects everyone differently. Some working moms crave more time at home while others want a higher salary to support the new little one.
Before you sit down with your boss or an HR rep, get very clear on what you want. Not what the average mom might want, but YOU, specifically.
What would your dream outcome look like? Make sure you know that going in, even though you may not get everything you ask for. (More on that in a minute.)
It’s helpful to have a sense of context while thinking through your requests.
Research which perks are common both within your company and your industry as a whole. If you provide evidence that another coworker has been offered work-from-home time or other women in your industry receive daycare stipends, it strengthens your argument.
Once you know what you want and what’s common in your industry, prepare your pitch with your employer in mind.
Consider these two requests:
“Now that I’m a mom, my schedule’s changed in a big way. Early starts are tough and I’d really like more time with my son in the morning. Any chance I could start work later?”
Or…
“Now that I’m a mom, my schedule’s changed in a big way. I want to maintain high quality of my work, and I think a work schedule that better matches my personal life will help me be more productive and focused. Can we talk about ways to make that happen?”
Which would you be more likely to approve, if you were the boss? Chances are, you’d approve #2, because it presents a clear benefit to you as the employer.
Positioning your requests in a way that benefits your company shows you value their perspective, which will make them more open to hearing your perspective.
Every company, industry, and mom is different. But here are a bunch of mom-friendly perks to keep in mind as you’re mapping out your requests:
Job sharing is a relatively new trend that a lot of working moms are loving. When you job-share, you split the responsibilities of one full-time position with one or more other employees.
There are many ways you can split up a role:
If this sounds like a route you’d like to go down, do what you can to make it easy for your employer to say “yes”. If you can do things like:
For more tips about making job-sharing work for you, check out this great article from Harvard Business Review.
If job-sharing isn’t the right fit, consider if you’d benefit from changing your work hours.
Maybe you want to cut down by a few hours each week or even bump down to part-time.
Or maybe you’d love more flexible options (like the ability to work on the weekend to make up time).
It’s worth asking your employer what opportunities are available to help you make the best choice for you.
Thanks to technology, it’s possible to work from just about anywhere with an internet connection.
How much face-to-face interaction does your job actually need? Consider whether working from home one or more days a week would be feasible for your role and your needs.
Every raise compounds to increase your lifetime earning potential. If you want to better financially provide for your growing family, it may be time to ask for a salary increase.
Check out websites like glassdoor.com, ziprecruiter.com, or payscale.com to research the salary range for your position. And for more tips on asking for a raise, check out this great article by Bustle.
Most health insurance options are standard throughout a company so flexibility may be limited. But consider other potential perks, like contributions to a health savings account or employer-provided disability insurance.
Your baby’s going to need you around for a long, long time. It’s worth asking if there are any wellness programs you can take advantage of. You could be entitled to things like free flu shots, lower insurance premiums after a health-risk assessment, even gym memberships or stress relief classes.
It’s often easier for HR managers to approve additional vacation days than a salary increase.
Asking for a few additional vacation days can really add up over the years — every little bit counts when you’re a mom!
Does your company provide free childcare services to employees? Do they have relationships with local daycare that offer employees a reduced rate? Will they compensate moms for a portion of their childcare expenses?
It’s good to get a firm handle on what kind of assistance your company provides.
Working moms are the only ones who really know what the pace is like. So it could be great for a chance to learn from a woman who’s been there.
If there’s a powerhouse mom in the executive suite at your company, you could explore whether there are any mentorship opportunities available.
Consider whether you need to negotiate for clearer boundaries around what’s expected of you. Are you okay with colleagues contacting you outside of work hours? Or are your nights and weekends your own, where you’ll never answer a work call or email?
On the flipside, having a dedicated morning or afternoon break to check in with your nanny or child can be a nice perk for a mom to have.
Offer Plan B
It’s important to go into your negotiation with a clear idea of what you want. But it’s also helpful to have a backup plan, if your dream scenario isn’t possible.
You always want to ask for what you really want...but secretly know the minimum you’d be satisfied with.
For example, maybe you really want to work from home three days a week, but you’d be satisfied with only working one. That way, you’ll know how to respond if your HR rep counters with less than what you ask for.
If your employer shows resistance to your requests, offering a trial period can be a great way to try solutions short-term. Maybe you test out working from 7:30 am-3:30 pm and then evaluate the arrangement 1-3 months down the road. This is always a good option to keep in your back pocket!
We work mainly with moms here at Dooli™, but it’s important to note...
That these tips aren’t just for working moms, but working dads, too!
The workplace is changing and benefits like paternity leave and flextime for dads are becoming more commonplace (it’s about time, right?)
Share these ideas with the dads you know, too! Every parent can use some help making that work/life balance a little sweeter.
It’s not quite a two-day workweek, but the Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter definitely makes mom life simpler! Skip the pail-brand refills and use whatever bag you have lying around the house. That means less waste in landfills and more money in your pocket.
I’m no master negotiator, but I believe in the HR world, they call that a win-win. :)
]]>It’s beautiful and heart-warming and magical. (So, so magical!)
But, some days? Mommy really just needs a glass of wine.
And when you’re breastfeeding, that can raise a lot of questions.
There are some who believe Mom’s body should be a pristine temple to create only the purest liquid gold imaginable.
There are others who are cool with making this “Mom” thing work, however they can.
At Dooli™, we tend to be more Column B than Column A. So we wanted to take a closer look at the concept of pump-and-dump — disposing of breastmilk after a night of drinking, to “clear up” your milk supply.
What’s actually safe? What’s cause for concern? And what is the most realistic way for modern women to get through motherhood...which, some nights — let’s be real — requires a drink or two?
Here’s the (semi-true) logic behind pump-and-dump:
After you consume alcohol, it enters your bloodstream and your breast milk, thus contaminating it.
To remove the “bad batch”, you have to PUMP out the tainted milk. Then you DUMP it (throw it away) because it would obviously be harmful for your baby to drink boozy milk.
Once you’ve cleared out the contaminated breast milk, your supply is safe again.
In theory, pump-and-dump sounds like a good idea, right? But it’s not entirely true...
Is pumping and dumping necessary?
The truth is, alcohol does make its way into your milk supply when you drink. But it doesn’t stay there and it doesn’t contaminate your breast milk long-term.
A 2013 study showed that the alcohol level in your breast milk will be roughly equal to the alcohol level in your blood. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) were 0.05%, the alcohol in your breast milk would be 0.05%, too.
So if you nursed while your BAC was at 0.05%, there would be alcohol present in your breast milk.
However...
As your body processes alcohol, it leaves your breast milk the same way it leaves your blood. Any breast milk you express once your BAC is back down to 0% will be alcohol-free.
Think about it: you don’t have to remove any “tainted” blood after drinking, right? It simply clears up. (Hey, thanks, liver!) The same happens with your breast milk.
As long as you nurse once the alcohol has left your system, your breast milk will be completely safe for your baby.
Another false rumor? That pumping and dumping speeds up alcohol leaving your breast milk. Not true. Only time can do that.
As long as the alcohol has left your system, there’s no need to pump and dump. Don’t waste that liquid gold!
Whether you’re drinking out on the town or while curling up with a good book, there are a few guidelines to follow.
WhatToExpect.com says that beer, wine, and even hard liquor are all safe to drink while you’re nursing...in moderation, of course.
If you can, start drinking right after nursing or pumping, to give yourself as much time as possible before baby’s next feeding.
According to La Leche League, the alcohol in one serving of wine takes a 140-pound woman about 2-3 hours to leave her system. The more alcohol you consume, the longer it takes for your breast milk to clear up.
Make sure to give yourself enough time for the alcohol to leave your body before breastfeeding again. If you want to be extra sure your breast milk is booze-free, you can use alcohol test strips like MilkScreen.
A few words of caution…
While studies show that nursing mothers can safely consume alcohol, don’t confuse that with drinking while pregnant. Completely different situation!
That’s not to say you can’t ever have a drink while pregnant. But that’s a whole different conversation (and maybe a different blog post someday!) so don’t apply what we’re saying here to drinking while preggers.
It’s also important to differentiate between enjoying the occasional drink and binge-drinking. Having a couple drinks is generally okay but if you’re consuming large amounts of alcohol, often, you could be putting your baby at risk.
Any time you’ve been drinking, make sure not to co-sleep with your baby. You never want to share a bed if anyone has been consuming alcohol or other substances. It’s just too risky!
The only real reason to pump and dump is for comfort and to prevent engorgement. You can also pump and dump if you need to express milk to maintain your supply.
Some medications and other substances can contaminate your breast milk and stay there until you express the tainted milk. Alcohol doesn’t work like this. But if you suspect that your breast milk is contaminated for any reason, by all means, pump and dump!
In the end, do what feels right for you.
If you want to have a glass or two of rosé, more power to you.
If you feel good pumping and dumping, go for it.
If you choose not to drink at all while breastfeeding, get down with your healthy self!
We’re here cheering you on, Mama, however you choose to live out your motherhood.
Another real-world solution for modern moms:
Don’t get stuck in the cycle of buying expensive diaper pail refill bags straight from the manufacturer. Exercise your right to choose!
Our Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter allows you to use ANY bag you want in your diaper pail.
Just click the adapter into place to use any plastic shopping bags you have lying around the house — maybe from last week’s wine run? ;) — to corral those diapers.
]]>But are you paying attention to what happens inside the litter box?
Your cat’s poo says a lot about his internal health. And while it sounds gross, it’s actually really important to take note of how it looks and smells.
Abnormal stools could be caused by something simple like stress or an incompatible diet. Or they could be signs of something more serious that requires vet attention.
Although it’s not very glamorous to talk about cat poo, noticing an abnormality could literally save your cat’s life! So it’s totally worth a few minutes of poo talk to help your cat live all nine of his lives healthily.
How often should you check your cat’s poo?
The easiest way to monitor your cat’s bowel movements is to simply pay attention every time you clean out the litter box.
It doesn’t need to involve a huge examination — just take a quick look inside the scoop before you dump the poo into your Dooli™ Litter Genie® Compatible Refill Bag.
Take a quick mental note of these five things, so you can spot abnormalities:
Quick disclaimer: We’re not animal experts here at Dooli™ — just your garden-variety pet lovers!
We want to make it easier to share a home with your pet and empower you to take an active role in monitoring your cat’s health.
But of course, your vet knows best. If you have any concerns about your cat’s bowel movements, don’t let this (or any other) blog post be your guide. Always check with your veterinarian to be safe!
That being said, here’s what a typical cat poo usually looks like:
Most cat poo is shaped like a log or little nugget. A healthy stool is firm but not too solid; around the consistency of Play-Doh.
Here’s a handy chart to help you identify the shape and consistency of your cat’s poo. It can be helpful to share this information when you call the vet.
If you see any of these in your cat’s poo, check with your vet:
As far as what’s inside the poo? If you notice an abundance of hair, it’s worth checking with your vet to see if your pet is over-grooming, and if so, why.
If your cat has any internal parasites, you may notice them in the poo. (Horrifying, we know!) If you notice anything that resembles a bug or a worm or anything else that moves in your cat’s stool, take your pet to the vet.
Cat poo usually tends to be dark brown in color. Any other color than dark brown (black, green, red, or light brown) should be discussed with your vet.
Red or bloody stools can be a scary sight for cat owners. Don’t panic if you find blood; there are some normal reasons why this could be happening! But it’s worth a call to the vet to see if they recommend coming in for testing.
Every cat has his own rhythm but most cats go #2 around once daily. Older cats tend to go less frequently.
If your cat is having bowel movements:
It’s worth checking with your vet to make sure everything’s okay.
Your cat’s poo isn’t going to smell like a walk in the Yankee Candle factory. (Because, duh. It’s poo.) Some odor is normal. But it shouldn’t smell too terrible, either.
There isn’t a standard “smell” for cat poo. Each cat is different, depending on diet, exercise, age, and other lifestyle factors.
But — hmm, how should we say this? — you know what your cat’s poo smells like, right? You’re familiar with what’s “normal”?
The guideline here is to keep an eye (or nose) out for any changes. If you notice it stinkier than normal, that’s usually worth paying attention to. It could be a sign of intestinal disease.
What to do if you notice something abnormal
Like humans, your cat will occasionally have irregularities in his bowel movements. Don’t panic if you notice something strange! Take a deep breath and moment to think before you rush into action.
Of course, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So if you want to call the vet, by all means, do.
These two symptoms that are always worth a vet visit:
In the end, you know what’s best for your pet.
Be mindful of what’s normal for your cat and aware of the warning signs.
And always listen to your Pet Mama intuition! It rarely leads you astray.
Cat poo stinks. But your house doesn’t have to.
We created the Litter Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter so you can use ANY bag in your Litter Genie®...not just the confusing brand-name refills!
Re-use plastic shopping bags, try our easy 7-layer bag refills, or clip in any other bags you have around the house to keep cat poo contained.
Your favorite song on the radio while waiting at a red light.
A smile from the secretary at the DMV.
Extra salt on the rim of your spicy margarita, without even needing to ask.
Or, if you’re a new mom, finding that ONE magical trick that makes diaper changing less painful.
Every baby is different, just like every mom is different. It takes a while to find the right groove and settle on a routine that works for your unique rhythms.
To give you a head start, here are 10 little things you can do to make the diaper-changing experience more enjoyable for both of you.
Incorporate rewards
This tip pulls double duty (no pun intended). It makes diaper changing easier AND teaches little ones about delayed gratification — a crucial skill for success later in life.
Set up a reward system around diaper changing, so that your baby gets a special treat only after the new diaper is successfully on. You could share a beloved toy that’s only available for 10 minutes after diaper time. Try putting on a favorite song as a reward. One mom we know swears that a single Nerd candy works wonders to motivate her child through a diaper change. What type of reward would work best with your parenting style and values?
Become a distraction master
A little distraction makes diaper time so much more bearable for little ones. (Which means less squirming and more ease for Mom.)
A few ways to successfully distract your little one: sing a song, give baby a favorite book, play a quick game of peekaboo, start a countdown, or even install a colorful mobile above the changing table. Test out a few different strategies to find the go-to distraction trick for your baby.
Embrace the screen
A little technology can be a huge help during diaper changes. We love the White Noise Baby app for a way to distract your little one with 20 looping ambient sounds. The app also includes an high-contrast interactive rattle, perfect for a few more moments of distraction if the ambient noises don’t do the trick.
When all else fails, you can always put on a favorite TV show or let your child play a quick game on your phone. We’re not the screen police — whatever it takes to get through the day is okay by us, Mom. :)
Store items vertically
Most people stack their changing stations horizontally (like piling diapers on top of one another). Instead, store your items upright, so they can be easily accessed from the top of drawers, like this:
(Source: The Land of Nod)
The goal is for every item to be accessible without having to dig. This is a big help with limited visibility during middle-of-the-night changes or if your hands are covered in, well, stuff.
Use resources wisely
Genius pro tip? Use your baby’s diaper for your first wipe.
Find a clean spot on the diaper and wipe us as much mess as you can from the get-go. It leaves less mess to clean up with baby wipes, which reduces your waste (and saves you money) and makes diaper changes that much quicker.
Prevent surprise messes
You’d be amazed how far a little boy can shoot when he’s diaperless! To keep “surprises” from getting all over your home, cover up boys with a washcloth, tissue, or pee pee teepee while mid-change.
In a similar vein, put a washcloth or a clean diaper underneath girls as you change them to prevent leaks on the changing table.
Simplify waste collection
Instead of walking a dirty diaper from the changing table through your house to the garbage can, bring the garbage to you!
A Diaper Genie® really is a necessary luxury. The Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter by Dooli™ makes it even easier (and more affordable) by allowing you to use your own bags in the machine!
Just snap on the adapter and use whatever plastic bags you have laying around the house. It’s a smart, practical investment that reduces waste and makes diaper time so much easier.
Use a portable changing pad
When you’re out and about, the last thing you want to do is put your baby on a skeezy changing table in a public bathroom.
In times like these, it helps to have a portable changing pad (like this fold-up option from Amazon). It’s an easy way to keep your baby clean and avoid sending your Mom brain into a germ-filled panic spiral. Just toss the changing pad in the washing machine to freshen it up.
Treat yourself
(Source: Little Unicorn)
...to a chic diaper bag.
Sometimes, it’s really nice not to feel like a MOM all the time, isn’t it? Add a little joy to your routine by treating yourself to a diaper bag that doesn’t scream “watch out, Mom coming through” to the world.
We especially love Little Unicorn for chic diaper bags under $100, especially this Brookside Tote — tons of interior pockets and a timeless tote design.
Take a deep breath
Remember, this time is fleeting. Your baby will be running around in big boy/girl undies before you know it. So before you groan and head to the changing table, take a calming deep breath and remind yourself this time is a blessing.
Yes, we said it: changing diapers is a blessing! Take a moment to re-center and be present for the experience. This can be a bonding experience where you give your child pure, high-quality care. At the very least, it’s a few moments every day when you have pure, uninterrupted time together. Enjoy it, Mama!
Diaper changing time really can be a nice experience, once you learn how to make it work for you. Pick just one of these tips to mix into your routine this week and see how it works for you.
Dooli™ products help make parenthood easier.
To simplify the diaper changing experience, check out our Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter and 7-layer Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Refills.
]]>I know! It’s not a popular stance to have this time of year. But hear us out...
According to US News, roughly 80% of New Year’s Resolution fail by February. For all the wonderful intentions we have while setting resolutions, it’s just not a practical way to bring real change into your life for the new year.
While we’re not into resolutions, here’s what we are into:
Instead of writing about how to keep your New Year’s Resolutions (because who needs another post about that?) we’re sharing our top book picks for starting the new year on the right foot.
These books will inspire you and give you tons of fresh ideas. They’ll provide you with ample wind-down time to relax. And when you add a crackling fire and a steaming mug of herbal tea (or mulled wine) to this reading list, you’ve got everything you need for a pretty perfect January night in.
Let’s start with a simple question: What do you want to accomplish this year?
Recommended reading: You Need a Budget: The Proven System for Breaking the Paycheck-to-Paycheck Cycle, Getting Out of Debt, and Living the Life You Want by Jesse Mecham
If getting out of debt, growing your wealth, saving more money, or simply feeling in control of your finances is on your wish list for 2018, this book is a must-read!
Jesse Mecham is the lovechild of your super smart financial advisor and your uber down-to-earth brother. His financial advice is simple, brilliant, and easy to swallow. He keeps it easy by sticking to four clear rules to manage your finances.
Our favorite rule? Use last month’s income to budget this month’s expenses. Genius, right?
There’s also budgeting software of the same name (You Need a Budget) that goes along with the book. It’s absolutely life-changing and they offer a 34-day free trial!
Recommended reading: How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids by Jancee Dunn
If you’re like most moms, something crazy happens when you have kids. Suddenly, you’re fighting with your spouse about everything. That pile of dishes next to the sink that you used to quietly do yourself now launches you into a tirade.
When Jancee Dunn started noticing her six-year-old daughter standing in front of her husband saying “don’t yell at Daddy!” when they argued, she knew they had a problem on their hands. For the sake of her daughter, and her marriage (which Dunn willingly admits was the #2 priority in that scenario!) she set out on a journey to *not* hate her husband while raising their daughter.
Seeking the advice of relationship coaches, marriage counselors, and leading social psychology researchers, Dunn provides actionable tips to help you work better as a team.
In addition to proven strategies to improve your relationship with your partner AND encourage a more equal share of housework, Dunn also shares hilarious anecdotes and moments so relatable you’ll feel like you found your new best friend.
Recommended reading: The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How to Make Your Life Better (and Other People's Lives Better, Too) by Gretchen Rubin
Asking one little question can make a world of difference. In this book, human nature investigator Gretchen Rubin zeroed in on this one: “How do I respond to expectations?”
In this book, Rubin shows how people’s answers to that question fit into Four Tendencies: Upholders, Questioners, Obligers, and Rebels. Tendencies shape our behavior, our realities, our world.
Rubin’s style is refreshingly honest and thoughtful. You’ll laugh as you see yourself (and others) so clearly in this book. You’ll learn how to work with your natural Tendency to be more effective in managing stress, relating to others, and accomplishing your goals — both at work and at home.
Recommended reading: Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own Person by Shonda Rhimes
Shonda Rhimes’s life was forever changed one Thanksgiving when her sister uttered six little words while chopping up the veggies: “You never say yes to anything.”
The words haunted her until January, when Rhimes resolved not to spend another year staying feeling afraid and playing small. She challenged herself to say “yes” to every offer that came her way that year, even (and especially) the ones that scared the pants off of her.
The book is written in Rhimes’s signature snarky style and is equal parts uplifting, inspiring, and smile-creepily-while-you-read enjoyable. It will make you reconsider the side effects of playing life too safely and fire you up to embrace the moment and say “yes” to the opportunities in your life.
We recommend getting this one on audiobook, as Miss Shonda reads it herself!
Recommended reading: Bringing Up Bébé: One American Mother Discovers the Wisdom of French Parenting by Pamela Druckerman
Did you know that in France, it’s common for babies to sleep through the night at six weeks old? Or that mothers quickly return to their pre-baby weights and maintain active sex lives with their husbands? Or that French toddlers willingly eat leeks, Haricots Verts, and foie gras...which they order themselves...while sitting politely with their parents at a restaurant?!?
Pamela Druckerman, an American mom living in Paris, realized this by living it. Parenting in France is a whole different ballgame than the US, with very different results. Pamela consulted doctors, parenting experts, and French moms to learn the secrets to raising self-sufficient children, one cadre at a time. (You’ll get it when you read the book.)
Recommended reading: L'art de la Simplicité: How to Live More with Less by Dominique Loreau
What woman doesn’t crave more simplicity in her life? If you loved The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying, you’ll love L'art de la Simplicité.
This book is all about embracing the concept of “less, but better”. Loreau marries her French background with what she’s learned from living in Japan, arguably two of the most minimalistic cultures who also love good quality.
From clothing and home design to food and health, this book helps you zero in on the things that matter and gracefully let go of the things that don’t.
Recommended reading: Sweet Potato Soul by Jenné Claiborne
Most of us want to embrace a healthier lifestyle. And we know eating a plant-based diet has a whole slew of health benefits. But you (and we’re willing to bet, your partner) don’t want to sacrifice taste to eat healthily, right?
Enter: Sweet Potato Soul. This book contains 100 temping vegan recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fried cauliflower chicken? Bootylicious gumbo? Sweet potato cinnamon rolls?!? Yes, yes, and oh dear Lord, yes.
We’ve been a fan of Jenné’s forever over on her blog of the same name. The cookbook doesn’t come out until early February, so in the meantime, curl up with her blog archives to give you plenty of January cooking ideas (like this comfort food heaven mushroom gravy and vegan mashed potatoes) until the book comes out!
Whether you want to improve your relationship, gain self-awareness, grow your finances, or simplify your life this year, choose the book that most excites you right now and get going! Never underestimate the value of excitement and momentum — small steps (combined with a cozy night in) can make a world of difference.
One super easy way to improve your finances? Use your own bags in your Diaper Genie®.
The Dooli™ bag adapter allows you to re-use any plastic bag in your Diaper Genie® or Litter Genie®. Throughout the year, the savings really add up!
Click to order your Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter or Litter Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter today! ]]>And yes, it's a magical family experience and we're so grateful for another year of holiday cheer.
But can we be real for a sec?
It's also busy. And chaotic. And stressful.
When you’re juggling school recitals and Secret Santas and holiday parties, there's not a whole lot of "me time” to stop and smell the poinsettias.
Here at Dooli™, we're big fans of the Look Good Feel Good concept. That's not to say that looks are everything. (I mean, our standard company dress code involves Lululemons and mascara-less eyelashes.)
But you can’t deny it — a good hair day does some pretty phenomenal things to your mood.
Underneath every busy mom is a woman who deserves to feel amazing in her skin, especially on days when she’s got 101 things on her to-do list (and 101 more things in her holiday Amazon cart).
So here are 10 super simple 5-minutes-or-less hairstyles that will have you fending off compliments, with an Elle Woods-esque:
We've gotta start with this bow for the holidays! It’s a current twist on the more polished hair bow. And it's only three steps, two bobby pins, and one hair elastic to DONE.
Will we ever tire of chunky dutch braids? Probs not. They key with this look is to pull the braids apart (or “pancake” them, in beauty industry speak) to get that amazing texture.
Raise your hand if you owned a Topsy Tail in the 90s! Use the same simple technique to create this cute, cool, effortless updo.
Who doesn't love a hairstyle that makes "messy" chic? This tutorial gives you six variations of the tried-and-true messy bun. Pick your favorite and get to messin'!
Think you don't have time to curl your hair? If you've got five minutes, you've got enough for this loose, pretty style. (Yes, really.)
Tucking in the end elevates a simple French braid to a whole new level. Try this style with a dutch (or "inside out") French braid for a more textured look.
This style looks incredibly polished but takes only minutes. Just twist back the sides, flip up the back, and pin away!
If you love wearing your hair half-up, half-down, try this modern rope style for a *twist* on a traditional braid.
A smooth bun at the nape of your neck is the definition of elegance. If you're looking for something a bit more formal, this is your jam!
You need to try this for your next holiday party. Just...take our word on this one. It looks incredibly classy but is as simple as doing a ponytail.
Two more hairstyle quick tips
Work with the hair you have, not the hair you want. Don't fight your natural texture, choose styles that work with it!
Master 2-3 styles. Instead of trying to do #allofthehairstyles, pick 2-3 that work best with your hair and your styling skills. With a little practice, you'll get better at creating them AND will finish them faster!
Instead of spending time with those frustrating diaper bag refills, Dooli™'s Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter allows you to use any bag you like.
Just snap in the adaptor and reuse your plastic shopping bags (you know you have tons after the holidays!) or our easy-to-install Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Refills.
]]>On wrapping paper. (Source)
Yup. Insane, right?
But the problem with most eco-friendly wrapping paper options is that...well...they look like something a hippie made in their backyard.
Wrapping presents in random fabric swatches or crumpled up magazine pages just doesn’t give off the Joanna Gaines vibe we’re going for this holiday.
Luckily, there’s a way to wrap holiday presents in a way that’s green, thrifty, AND gorgeous.
Here are our favorite chic eco-friendly gift wrap ideas (and our tips for ironing out crinkled paper to look more polished!):
Source: readingmytealeaves.com
Instead of reaching for the comics (a tried-and-true gift wrap option) look for newspaper pages with mostly text. The bold typography against the muted gray background is beautiful on its own.
If you want to add a pop of color with a holly branch or colored ribbon. Or stick to a neutral palette with striking black ribbon or twine.
Source: almostmakesperfect.com
Cut up leftover paper grocery bags for a classic gift wrap option.
We love the minimalist look of brown paper on its own when it comes to gift wrap. If you like a little more zhuzh for the holidays, simple white paint can take the look to a new level. Try these great ideas from Almost Makes Perfect!
Source: maisondepax.com
How chic and timeless is this idea?!
Use old sheet music you have stuffed inside the piano bench or ask your local school or church if they have any leftover music from old productions laying around.
Source: blah-to-tada.blogspot.co.uk
Don’t chuck those 2017 calendars, put them to good use!
Circle the number 25 for Christmas or — the idea we’re obsessed with — circle a different date for each night of Hanukkah. Don’t worry about sticking to the right month, no one will notice once it’s wrapped up!
Source: marthastewartweddings.com
The last time we used a paper map was...well, how long ago did MapQuest come out?
Give new life to any maps you have lying around the house or car glove compartment by pairing them with a brightly colored ribbon.
Source: collective-evolution.com
Skip the trip to Michaels — the best gift wrap details can be found in your backyard or kitchen.
Tie things like pine tree trimmings, holly berries, twigs, pinecones, rosemary sprigs, or cinnamon sticks to make your present look like it came straight out of a Pottery Barn catalog.
Source: craftberrybush.com
Burlap adds a rustic chic look to presents. But it can be expensive. And why spend when you can get the material for free?
Head down to the local coffee shop and after ordering something delicious, sweetly ask if they have any extra burlap bags they could spare. (Pro tip: Cafes that roast their own beans are most likely to have extra bags on hand.)
Cut the sacks into strips of varying widths, and wrap away!
Source: thecelebrationsociety.com
Time to whip out the paint chips from the bathroom reno project that (still) hasn’t been completed yet!
Write directly on the cards like the image below or cut the chips into trees, ornaments, stars, dreidels, or other holiday shapes for a fun feel.
Source: upcyclist.co.uk
Here’s a cute way to make use of that leftover holiday card pile...
Cut up last year’s cards into the shapes of letters, to identify which gift belongs to which person. You could write the person’s name on the tag if you need further identification (or if you’ve got a family with a John, Jane, and Jackson under one roof!)
Source: nordingarden.blogspot.co.uk
Of course, you can always make the wrapping part of the gift. Use things like a rustic crate, wicker basket, reusable canvas grocery bag, ceramic canister, big coffee mug, or glass pitcher or to hold your gift.
Throw a few pine clippings from the backyard or some shredded paper to make the open-style look feel like a million bucks.
Nothing screams “eco-friendly gift wrap” like wrinkled paper.
Taking a few minutes to smooth out your grocery bags or maps will make a world of difference to the appearance of your presents.
Click here for three ways to smooth out crumpled paper.
Look for gift wrap products that use recycled paper materials. You may not be saving money but you can still save the planet.
This recycled wrapping paper and these recycled gift tags are great earth-friendly choices.
No matter how you wrap them up, Dooli™ products make a perfect gift for any eco-friendly new parent or pet lover!
Our compatible bag adapters for Diaper Genie® or Litter Genie® allow you to use any bag in your system — so you can re-use plastic grocery bags or any trash bag in your house!
]]>The holidays are officially upon us. Which means your to-do list now has one more big item on it…
Holiday shopping.
You’ve barely had enough time for a second sip of your white peppermint mocha, much less brainstorming gifts for everyone on your list.
You’ve got two options:
Or…
Yes, the holidays can be stressful. But you don’t need to overthink this, mama!
Here are our favorite proven-to-please gift ideas for everyone on your list. They may not be the most exciting gifts of all time, but they’re thoughtful, uber practical, and definite crowd-pleasers!
For any expectant mom on your list, this gift is life-changing. It’s as good for the body as it is for the mind.
Club together with a friend or two to treat your mama-to-be to some much-needed “me time”.
Pick up a gift certificate to a local spa or grab a SpaFinder gift card online to make it super simple.
Source: hobobags.com
This wallet from Hobo is all sorts of amazing and we can’t think of a woman who wouldn’t love it to pieces.
It’s got two deep side pockets that fit receipts, ID, credit cards, cell phone, lip gloss, pouches of baby food, wet wipes, everything. It comes in a zillion color options and doubles as a clutch. Any woman will get a ton of use out of this bad boy!
Source: etsy.com
The problem with gag gifts is that they’re funny...but serve no actual purpose. That’s where these babies come in.
They’re a great tongue-in-cheek gift that pulls double duty. Because extra wine is a great thing to have on hand at the holidays. (Slash all days.)
Is a Starbucks gift card original? Heck no. But is it appreciated? YES. Ask literally any mom on the planet.
A Starbucks card will always, always, always delight the recipient. And isn’t that what holiday giving is all about?
Source: thisisground.com
Tangled Headphone Syndrome happens to everyone, which makes these clever cord tacos an incredibly practical gift.
If you’re looking for something different, This Is Ground has tons of awesome leather gadget storage options. We also love the Cordito roll-up and Knick Knack Nacho.
Source: (https://store.google.com/product/google_home_mini)
Seriously? Who doesn’t want a gift that delivers tasty food AND gives you an excuse to spend a night in sweatpants?
We can’t think of a guy who wouldn’t love using this when it’s his turn to cook dinner.
Source: amazon.com
Many a dad soul withers away while carrying a magenta Vera Bradley diaper bag.
You’ll use your diaper bag constantly so treat your expectant dad to one he feels good wearing. Choose a neutral option like this one from Amazon that you can both enjoy lugging through the grocery store, mall, and let’s be honest — everywhere else.
Source: magnatiles.com
Is it too bold to say Magna-Tiles are the new Lincoln Logs?
Little kids absolutely love these and they’re great for a toddler’s development. They also happen to be really fun for adults to play with too, which is a huge plus!
Source: sophiethegiraffe-usa.com
We’re not sure what it is, exactly, but this toy is FIRE with babies.
Every baby we know has at least one Sophie and they can’t get enough! It’s part teething toy, part baby catnip. Any little one in your life is sure to love it!
Can we please turn back time and have this book when we were little?
This is a children's book of 100 bedtime stories about the lives of 100 extraordinary women — from Amelia Earhart to Queen Elizabeth I to Serena Williams to Joan Jett.
“To every little girl who dreams big, I say yes, you can be anything you want — even president.” - Hillary Clinton. Isn’t this the kind of message we want our kids to hear?
Source: amazon.com
This product is designed by two moms, so you know it’s gotta be good!
Even if you don’t have a white Christmas, you can still enjoy a good ol’ fashioned snowball fight indoors. These soft “snowballs” are so much fun for kids and parents to play with. They’re great for getting kids active and they’re machine washable to be used again and again!
Source: etsy.com
We’re throwing away our pets’ tacky tags from Petco and upgrading to a sleeker model this year.
For around $15, you can gift your pooch a really classy handmade dog tag. Etsy offers tons of hand-hammered options. We love this upscale cutie — you can even get it in rose gold!
Source: amazon.com
This is the dog toy to end all dog toys!
It’s a fun way to play with your pet — when you get bored of throwing the tennis ball around the house. Dogs are obsessed with this plushy toy! (Also, it’s got over 9K positive Amazon reviews. If that doesn’t scream “proven-to-please”, we don’t know what will!)
Source: catcrib.com
For the coziest catnap ever, hook up your kitty with a cat crib!
This smart design fits under your four-legged furniture to give your pet a comfy place to snooze, without messing with the decor of your home. Win-win!
Don’t put so much pressure on yourself to get THE most perfect gift that has ever graced the planet. Remember, really good is good enough!
Stick to practical, tried-and-true gift ideas for a satisfied family and a well-balanced Mom — and enough time to sit back and enjoy the peppermint mocha.
For more honest parenting, home, and wellness tips, sign up for email updates below.
Co-sleeping, sometimes called the "family bed", is when your baby sleeps in bed with you. Parents who co-sleep can do so for weeks, months, or even years following birth.
Co-sleeping is a polarizing trend that new parents tend to either love or hate.
Supporters say it's a lovely way to increase bonding and feelings of trust. Opponents think it's dangerous and encourages unhealthy attachment.
What's the truth behind the trend?
With so many opinions flying around the internet, it's hard to know whether co-sleeping is really the best choice for your baby and family.
We pulled together a pro/con list of the benefits and risks of co-sleeping, so you can judge for yourself.
We're optimists here at Dooli™. So let's start with the pros:
One of the biggest benefits of co-sleeping is how easy it makes breastfeeding.
When your baby is sleeping within a few inches of you, you can quickly satisfy to a nighttime feeding request. You and your baby might even be able to breastfeed without fully waking, which makes it easy to get back to sleep.
Studies show that babies who sleep in bed with their mothers often breastfeed more often and for longer than babies who sleep separately. Some moms find that co-sleeping makes breastfeeding easier and they have an increased milk supply.
Pediatrician Dr. Susan Markel says, “Babies have an inborn need to be touched and held. They enjoy having physical closeness day and night, and this kind of connection is essential to meet a baby’s needs for warmth, comfort and security.”
Sleeping can be a scary concept for babies — waking up in a dark space, with no one around you. Whereas, waking up with Mom right next to you, hearing her breathing, is much more comforting.
For this reason, co-sleeping can be especially appealing for working parents who don't see their babies much during the day. Nighttime is a chance to build a sense of closeness with their children.
Co-sleeping can keep babies safe in two ways.
In the early months of infancy, it's normal for babies to have gaps in breathing. However, irregular breathing is a commonly believed cause of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS. Being able to hear a mother's breathing while co-sleeping may provide cues to the baby to breathe, reducing irregular gaps in breathing.
And according to sleep researcher James McKenna, co-sleeping increases the likelihood of a parent responding to a potential incident — breath-related or otherwise. "Co-sleeping gives the parent the best opportunity to hear the baby in crisis and to respond," McKenna says.
Babies wake up in the night for a variety of reasons: they're hungry, they need changing, or they just want to be cuddled. While your sleep will inevitably be impacted, co-sleeping can help minimize the amount of sleep lost.
When you co-sleep, you can respond to your baby's first murmurs quickly — so it doesn't turn into a cry-fest that wakes up the whole household (other parent, pets, and children included).
Co-sleeping also makes it much easier to fall back asleep after care. Because you haven't walked across the room, and your baby hasn't gotten itself all worked up crying, it's easy to fall back asleep.
Yep, this goes directly against one of the pros that says co-sleeping is safer for babies! But the research is mixed and there are proponents on both side of the aisle.
A study in the British Medical Journal Open showed that babies who co-sleep with their parents are five times more likely to die of SIDS.
It's also possible for a parent to roll onto the baby while sleeping and cause injury or even death. For this reason, parents should stay away from alcohol or related substances while co-sleeping. If one or more parents is obese, that poses an additional risk to the baby.
Finally, adult mattresses don't have to meet any safety standards. Waterbeds or beds with a pillow-top mattress, soft pillows, and layered sheets and blankets can potentially suffocate an infant. A tiny baby can also fall off the side of the bed or in between the mattress and headboard, causing injury.
Infants make all sorts of noise as they sleep, in addition to tossing and turning frequently. The majority of noises that infants make are perfectly normal and don't need to be attended to.
But when your baby is in bed with you, you're likely to awaken to even the tiniest noises. Sharing a bed with a squirming baby also takes some getting used to. You may not sleep as well as you do when not co-sleeping.
Co-sleeping critics say that children who share a bed with parents grow up to be overly attached and reliant. Constant physical closeness may prevent a baby from learning to be comfortable on his/her own.
It can be difficult to transition co-sleeping children to their own beds when the time comes. Leaving the baby with a babysitter or another family member is also problematic. If the baby is used to sleeping next to the warmth of their mom, they may be unable to sleep with anyone but her.
Having a baby in the bed makes it difficult for parents to find alone time.
Though this can also be a positive, as some couples find that co-sleeping challenges them to be more creative in their sex life and take advantage of other stolen opportunities to get jiggy with it.
Finally, co-sleeping with a new baby may cause jealousy issues for older children that could lead to resentment of the little brother or sister. Especially younger children will not understand why the baby gets to spend the night with parents and they can't.
If you decide to try co-sleeping, keep these tips in mind:
A great alternative is a "sidecar" arrangement, where the baby's crib is positioned directly next to your bed. You’ll still have ease of access to achieve many of the pros above, without the risk of the baby slipping off the bed or being rolled on.
The decision to co-sleep is a deeply personal one. At the end of the day, there are happy parents with both choices. Listen to your gut and make the choice that's right for you!
At Dooli™, we respect Mom's right to choose. We designed our diaper pail bag adapter system to allow you to use ANY refill bag you like, instead of needing to buy through your diaper pail brand.
Click here to learn more about our Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter.
]]>In addition to the glory that accompanies serving the most succulent turkey and the creamiest mashed potatoes, hosting Thanksgiving dinner also comes with a set of challenges.
...Including how to afford it.
The last thing anyone wants to focus on is the expense of hosting. But it's a reality! Buying groceries for a large dinner (not to mention snacks, apps, desserts, and drinks) to feed a houseful of loved ones is no joke.
If you’re not careful, the amount at the bottom of your grocery receipt can quickly become unmanageable.
Stick to your monthly food budget (without sacrificing quality or your favorite ingredients!) by following these money-saving tips:
In a perfect world, we'd buy all free-range, all local, all artisanal everything, right? But that's not realistic for most families. Start your Thanksgiving prep by getting clear on what matters most to you when it comes to food.
Whether you want to buy a free-range turkey, support local farmers for produce, or have the gourmet sausage your grandma's stuffing recipe calls for, prioritize the pricey ingredients you care about most. Then fill in the rest of your ingredients around those primary needs.
Once you know your food priorities, plan a menu to stretch your dollar further.
Look for dishes that use simple, affordable ingredients over unnecessary dollar-gobblers. A pumpkin pie spice mix, for example, is much pricier than mixing together some cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves yourself.
Then, start shopping for non-perishables (canned pumpkin, frozen corn, boxed broth) and grab items when they're on sale. Some stores increase the price of seasonal items the closer it gets to Thanksgiving, so stock up while they're priced low.
Shopping for items bit by bit also helps break up the grocery bill so it's not one giant hit in the days before Thanksgiving dinner.
Some credit cards offer additional rewards (like 2x or 3x the points) when used at the grocery store. Use this card when shopping for Thanksgiving items and apply the extra points towards gift cards for the holidays!
Check out gift card sites like raise.com to purchase grocery store gift cards for 1%, 2%, 3%, even up to 20% off! The site also has gift cards for home goods stores if you need extra plates or flatware, and specialty kitchen stores like Williams Sonoma.
Did you know that you can ask your grocery store to buy half of an item (half a butternut squash, block of cheese, or cut of meat)? Not every store offers this, but many do. It never hurts to ask!
Also, look for items that can be found in the bulk bins (oats, nuts, rice, dried fruit). Not only can you purchase the exact amount you need, these items are cheaper because they don't include packaging.
Check out your grocery store's salad bar if you only need a small amount of produce. It's the perfect place to find 1/4 of a red pepper, a few tablespoons of sweet peas, or a handful of cherry tomatoes.
If buying organic is important to you, invest your budget in buying organic items in the "Dirty Dozen" — the 12 fruits and veggies with the highest amount of chemical residue.
Save money by buying conventional for "cleaner" produce like sweet corn, onions, and cauliflower.
Click to see the full Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists.
Coupon websites and smartphone apps can help you save money on your Thanksgiving trip. Check out coupons.com, savingstar.com/coupons for coupons and our new favorite Ibotta app for cash-back rebates when you shop.
Many grocery stores have apps of their own, filled with coupons and special offers. Kroger's, Target, and Whole Foods are just a few chains that offer valuable savings in their free apps. Search the app store to see if your local store has one!
The original Thanksgiving with the pilgrims and Native Americans was potluck style. Recreate the tradition while sharing the burden of cooking (and spending.)
Here are a few ideas to divvy up your Thanksgiving meal:
Most guests are happy to bring along a dish or drink — so don’t be afraid to ask!
Many types of produce can be frozen ahead of time (buy them on sale and save for the big day) or afterward (if you have leftover ingredients). Less wasted food, less wasted money. Win-win!
A few Thanksgiving ingredients you can freeze:
Click here for a list of foods you can and cannot freeze.
Did you know that the Dooli™ bag adapter allows you to use ANY bag in your Diaper Genie® or Litter Genie®?
...Plastic grocery bags included! :)
Instead of spending money on expensive bag refills, the Dooli™adaptor lets you re-use any plastic bag you already have around the house.
Better for the environment. Better for your wallet. What's not to love?
Click here to purchase your Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter or Litter Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter.
]]>Need more energy?
Okay, silly question. It’s more like, what woman doesn’t need more energy?
When you’ve got:
You don’t have the luxury of taking a day off (or even taking a nap) when you’re tired.
We all know that too much caffeine from coffee and energy drinks can have some nasty side effects (especially regarding fertility, pregnancy, and breastfeeding). But most people don’t know there are healthy, all-natural alternatives to caffeine to give you the energy boost you need.
To start your day with a natural jolt of energy, here are six delicious and energizing breakfast ideas that incorporate seasonal fall ingredients:
Recipe & Photo Credit: https://minimalistbaker.com/dark-chocolate-quinoa-breakfast-bowl/
Quinoa is rich in iron and magnesium, both of which are key nutrients for energy regulation. It’s also high in protein (8 grams of protein in every cup!) and low in fat, making it a fantastic food at any time of day.
This quinoa porridge is topped with dark chocolate, a natural stimulant, mood-enhancer, and great source of antioxidants (not to mention delish!) Take it to the next level and sprinkle on some pumpkin seeds, which is one of the richest sources of energy-regulating magnesium available.
Note: The dark chocolate and cocoa powder in this recipe add about 10 mg of caffeine per serving. To put that number in perspective, it’s roughly the same amount of caffeine as a 16-oz cup of decaf coffee. (16 oz of regular coffee has around 200 mg of caffeine.)
Recipe: http://ohsheglows.com/2013/09/27/velvety-butternut-cinnamon-date-smoothie-for-two/
If you think putting butternut squash in a smoothie is weird, a) we’re with you, but b) we’re wrong. This velvety smoothie is so delicious! It’s basically fall in a glass.
Butternut squash is full of healthy carbohydrates give you a burst of energy. It’s also high in magnesium, which helps keep energy levels smooth. Cinnamon is an energy-booster too and contains a blood glucose regulator that helps your body release sugar as energy, rather than storing it.
If you want an extra dose of energy, you can blend in a teaspoon or two of maca powder, which helps balance hormones in addition to providing great energy. (Bonus!)
This tasty recipe is also refined sugar-free, so you won’t get a sugar crash later in the day.
Recipe and Photo Credit: https://rootandrevel.com/savory-oatmeal-breakfast-bowls/
If you want something warm and comforting on a fall morning but don’t like sweets, you’ve gotta try savory oatmeal!
Oatmeal’s high fiber content gives you lasting energy and fills you up in the morning. And the best part: you can top with whatever flavors you like!
The recipe above suggests sautéed veggies and a poached egg, which sounds delish. But a vegan combo we love even more is hummus and roasted veggies.
For fall, try adding seasonal vegetables like brussels sprouts, roasted pumpkin, or flavorful root veggies like carrots, beets or parsnips. Sautéed high-iron spinach will add even more natural energy to the breakfast.
Hummus has high fiber and protein to stabilize blood sugar and boost energy. Plus...it’s hummus. ‘Nough said.
Recipe and Photo Credit: https://paleoleap.com/apple-almond-butter-bites/
This simple breakfast is perfect for busy mornings when you need to eat on the run.
Apples are high in fiber and take longer to digest than many other fruits, which give you a more prolonged energy lift. Some even say that an apple can give you more sustained energy than a cup of coffee!
Almonds contain magnesium and B vitamins that help convert food to energy, as well as copper and manganese that keep energy flowing throughout the body. Spread some raw, unsalted almond butter on the cored apple slices for an easy grab-n-go breakfast.
Add whatever healthy topping you have on hand. Try shredded coconut for sweetness, dark chocolate for extra energy, or dried cranberries for fiber and a tart twist.
Recipe and Photo Credit: https://aggieskitchen.com/scrambled-eggs-with-smoked-salmon/
This is a great breakfast for days when you want something really hearty. The high protein content is key for fueling you up for a busy day.
Eggs are a complete protein, with over 6 grams per large egg. They’re also great sources of vitamin B (to help turn the food we eat into energy) and vitamin D, which many women are deficient in. Vitamin D deficiencies are linked to chronic fatigue, so make sure you’re getting enough!
Salmon is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids (which supports a healthy pregnancy.) It also contains vitamin B, niacin, and riboflavin, which all help boost energy.
Instead of pairing the scrambled eggs with toast, try simple roasted sweet potato home fries instead. Fiber-rich sweet potatoes provide more nutrients than bread, and their complex carbs slowly burn into fuel. Just chop up your sweet potatoes, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper, and roast in a 375-degree oven for 20-25 minutes, until tender.
Recipe and Photo Credit: https://food52.com/recipes/63156-apple-cinnamon-red-lentil-porridge
If you want to double down on fall flavors, this is the breakfast for you!
Fun fact: lentils are both a protein AND a complex carb. (Save that one for trivia night!) Combined with their fiber and iron content, red lentils are a perfect food to help you slowly release energy throughout the morning.
While most of us think of red lentils as being savory in flavor, this porridge recipe is lightly sweetened with a touch of maple syrup. It also features two fall favorites — apples and cinnamon — which both have energy-boosting powers of their own.
One cause of fatigue is dehydration. Not many people realize that our bodies become very dehydrated while we sleep.
Guzzle a big glass of water in the morning to start your day on an energized foot and make an effort to drink your 8 glasses throughout the day. Remember, a warm cup of pumpkin spice or apple cinnamon herbal tea counts towards your daily water quota, too; you don’t have to stick to just cold water!
Give it a try this week— your energy levels (not to mention your skin, organs, immune system, and more) will thank you.
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You’ve been there, right?
Scrolling through Pinterest…
Clicking on a cute hair tutorial…
Saying “I can totally do this!”...
When two hours (and half a head of singed hair) later you realize…
You totally can’t do this.
Many tutorials online appear oh-so-easy but are anything but simple. And with 10/31 right around the corner, it’s tough for a mom to find Halloween makeup for your son or daughter that won’t turn into a goopy, confusing mess once you get started.
Instead of accidentally promising your kiddo a ten-color, seven-brush masterpiece, stick to one of these 11 super doable Halloween makeup tutorials!
They’re from beloved kids’ movies so you’re sure to find a character your son or daughter will love. Plus, they’re uber simple — even the shakiest hand around can master them!
We’ll start with the easiest tutorial of all: The Incredibles.
All you need is some black face paint and a brush. You could even use a black eyeliner pencil, in a pinch!
We also love the idea of the whole family dressing up together as different characters from The Incredibles. Total cuteness overload.
(This tutorial shows the entire costume. All you need is the eye mask!)
Most of the minion tutorials we found require you to paint and shade goggles around the eye, which requires a steady hand and lots of patience.
This clever look lets you you cheat the design a bit and paint the goggles on your child’s forehead — making it so much easier and still giving you a really cute effect!
You could also choose to make just one eye, if you have a Kevin or Stuart fan in the house.
Not only is Inside Out an amazing movie for teaching kids (and, let’s be honest, parents) about feelings, the characters couldn’t make for easier Halloween makeup.
Whether your kiddo’s more of a Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Fear, or Anger, this tutorial has got the how-to. They all use one solid color as their base, making the makeup super easy!
This look might seem complicated at first, but it’s really not!
It’s actually one all-over color, five white circles, a few smaller blue circles, outlined with a few lashes thrown on top. Trust us, you can do it.
This idea is the cure for the common “Let it Go” addiction.
The Elsa tutorial below is a little more intricate than some of the other tutorials here. But it’s a lot easier than the popular Elsa “crown” tutorials that are floating around online. It’s a good middle ground for a Frozen fan!
You only need three colors of face paint (dark blue, white, and light blue — which you could make yourself by mixing the first two) and sparkles and you’re good to go.
How sweet is this costume idea for a sister and brother pair?!
The look for Ariel is really simple. It mainly involves using makeup you already have around the house.
Flounder only needs yellow, blue, and white face paint...and minimal effort to create those stripes!
Whether you prefer the kissy face, the winky face, or our personal fave: the cry/laughy face, there’s something for everyone in this tutorial.
Very few materials are required, which is nice! Most looks just call for yellow face paint plus white, black, blue, or red accents, depending on the emoji you choose.
We lost count of how many different emojis this tutorial actually walks you through — but there’s a bunch of options!
(Fair warning: Poop emoji not included. #wompwomp)
Even though it only involves three colors, this is probably the most intricate design in our roundup. Luckily, the tutorial breaks it down and makes the spiderweb pattern easily doable!
If you ask us, you can stop at the 2:30 mark — this would be more than enough for a satisfactory Spiderman. But if you want to get fancy, (you go, Glen Coco,) you can add the white highlights, too.
Although this is a tutorial for Princess Poppy, you could swap the pink for a blue/gray to create a similar look for Branch.
Both of these looks require just 1-2 colors of face paint, plus some glitter. (Trolls need their glitter!)
We also love that a little girl is doing this tutorial on herself, which shows how easy it is! Top the makeup off with some DIY troll hair and you’ve got a seriously fun DIY costume.
All this precious look requires is some black (or brown) liquid eyeliner and a white eyeliner pencil — things you probably already have on hand. Top it with this easy DIY deer antler headband and you’re almost ready to trick or treat.
Note: The tutorial below is shown on an adult but can easily be adapted for kids. Follow the main process and decide how closely you want to stick to the rest. (Your kiddo probably doesn’t require curled eyelashes and mascara...but it’s up to you!)
For a fidgety child, save yourself the hassle and just focus on applying eyeliner to the top eyelid, (skip the bottom). You’ll still get the same doe-eyed effect.
It doesn’t get much easier than these looks! Yellow face paint and a few additional strokes are all you need.
We’re big fans of simple here at Dooli™.
Skip the headache of an overly complicated costume and encourage your child to pick from one of these easy ideas.
Then proceed to spend all the time you save diving into the extra candy stash. Or taking another stab at that Pinterest hair tutorial. (That waterfall braid isn’t gonna perfect itself!)
For more honest parenting, home, and wellness tips, sign up for email updates below. You’ll also get a 25% off coupon to use on your favorite Dooli™ products!
Most of our phones are brimming with apps...but how many of them actually work for you?
According to TechCrunch, we use an average of nine apps every day and 30 apps every month. In the U.S., we spend 2 hours and 15 minutes every day on apps. And we have upwards of 60 apps on our devices.
Instead of cluttering up your smartphone screen with apps to add cute filters and track celeb sightings (though we love those too!) why not put that app time to smarter use and start focusing on apps that help you live a healthier life?
Here’s our list of 11 apps (10 of them free!) for healthy living that will seriously change your life:
Cost: free!
The dreaded question for moms everywhere: “What’s for dinner?”
Mealime not only gives you delicious meal ideas, it also pulls together a custom grocery list, too!
Just plug in your eating preferences (including options for paleo, pescetarian, and dairy-free, among others), search through recipe photos, and choose the meals that tickle your fancy.
The best part? Mealime automatically creates a grocery list based on the recipes you select...giving you one less hassle to worry about in your busy day.
Cost: free!
You know meditation is good for you, right? (Less stress, improved immune functioning, and lower levels of depression and anxiety are just a few of the benefits.) But if you’re like most women, you’re not actually doing it.
Headspace takes the intimidation out of meditating. The free 10-day Basics pack teaches the essentials of mindfulness and meditation and makes starting easy. In just 10 minutes a day, you can start a meditation practice that will have positive ripple effects throughout your life.
Emma Watson’s even a fan, saying, “It's an app that teaches you how to meditate. It's kind of genius.” If Emma’s on board, so are we!
Cost: free!
High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is the workout of choice for many busy moms who care about fitness but can’t spend all day in the gym. The Seconds app acts as your virtual trainer, alerting you when it’s time to change to a new exercise.
The app comes preloaded with common HIIT workout templates, or you can build your own with custom intervals. (If you want to save your custom workouts, you can purchase the Pro version of the app.)
Seconds speaks out your interval details and will cut in over music, so you’re covered even if you can’t look at your phone.
Cost: free!
Did you know we absorb over 60% of the ingredients we put on our skin? This isn’t just important for women who are pregnant, nursing, or trying to conceive, but for people who don’t want nasty chemicals floating around in their bloodstreams. (See also: EVERYONE.)
The Think Dirty app makes conscious shopping simple. Just type in a product or scan a barcode to see a custom ThinkDirty score for how dirty it is (the higher the score, the more harmful the product). Read through any potentially harmful ingredients and check out the detailed scores for carcinogenicity, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and allergies/immune system disruptors.
Cost: free!
Tracking your cycle not only helps you know when you’re ovulating — to increase (or decrease) your chances of getting pregnant. It also helps you better understand your body, connect the dots to see how hormones could be affecting you, and potentially recognize health concerns.
Kindara makes it easy to track your menstruation, basal body temperature, and cervical fluid and positioning. Not sure what those last few terms even mean? Kindara’s got a great knowledge base to teach you everything you need to know.
The ladies at Kindara also created their own basal thermometer that wirelessly syncs with the app, if you want to make it even easier.
Cost: free!
Yoga isn’t just good for the body, it’s also shown to relieve stress, sharpen attention, and calm the nervous system.
Asana Rebel helps you squeeze in some namaste time, whether you have 30 minutes or just five. You can choose workouts based on the time you have available, or filter by your goal: cardio, strength, or flow.
Cost: free!
This app is what happens when scientists and game designers come together.
Luminosity helps you improve your cognitive abilities by playing games. The app’s activities are modeled on classic cognitive exercises but delivered in fun, bite-sized games you’ll quickly become addicted to.
Instead of standing in the grocery store line chopping up watermelons with samurai swords, you can play games that keep your brain sharp and engaged.
Cost: $4.99
The 5-Minute Journal app makes adding a daily gratitude practice realistic for even the busiest among us. A reminder goes off in the morning to set your intentions for the day and in the evening to record three things you’re grateful for
You also have the option to save a daily photo, which we love! It’s great for keeping visual reminders of what happened each day.
It’s the only app on our list that’s paid — but the beautiful, minimalistic design and ease of use make it worth every penny!
Cost: free!
When your head hits the pillow, you move through different states — light sleep, deep sleep, and REM sleep, mixed with periods of waking up. SleepCycle takes advantage of this information to wake you up at the best possible moment.
You choose a time to wake up, allowing yourself a 30-minute window. The app uses sound analysis to track your sleep cycles and will play your alarm when you’re in the lightest possible sleep state so you’ll wake up feeling well-rested.
Cost: free!
Similar to the Think Dirty app, GoodGuide lets you search for and scan products to reveal whether products are safe, healthy, green, and socially responsible.
The app combines information about product ingredients to provide an overall score for each item. With a few taps, you’ll see simple, understandable guidelines so you can weigh up any potential health effects of different chemical ingredients.
GoodGuide is handy if you’re looking for green cleaning products for your home[[link to Month1 Blog1 when it’s live]], baby products, oral care products, and more.
Cost: free!
Blue light from our gadgets at night keep us awake by suppressing melatonin levels. But there are some nights when a work deadline (or a particularly juicy blog post) causes us to keep the laptop screen open well into the evening hours.
That’s when Flux is your new BFF. Flux is a desktop app that adjusts your monitor’s light output depending on the time of day. If you’re prowling the interwebs after sunset, this clever app will reduce the amount of blue light on your screen to give the monitor a warm, amber glow — just like the natural light levels.
By saving your eyes (and brain) from energy-boosting blue light, your brain will be better able to wind down when it’s time for bed.
In a busy world, it’s not always easy to live a healthy lifestyle. These apps definitely help provide some much-needed shortcuts.
Try one (or all!) of these apps to live healthy...easier.
For more tips on living a healthy lifestyle in the real world, sign up for email updates!
Modern family life is messy. Especially when babies and pets are involved.
No matter how many dreamy Magnolia Homes photos we pin or sparkling kitchen scenes we like on Instagram, real life never seems to stack up against the pretty images.
That’s because real life doesn’t exist on a Pinterest board or within that square frame. It exists in an imperfect, lived-in home. And it usually involves pet hair, food-crusted plates, and at least one dirty diaper somewhere in the vicinity.
66% percent of U.S. households have children and 68% include pets. So how do you find that happy medium to enjoy your home and make it work for everyone (both human and animal) involved?
Here are 7 smart tips to comfortably share your home with pets and kids:
Gone are the days where white sofas and cream dresses remain pristine. (Sorry ‘bout it.) But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice personal style. It just means you need to approach home decor creatively. For example...
Candles are lovely but not exactly the safest option with babies and pets around. Swap in some twinkle lights or flameless candles to add the same warm ambiance without the fire hazard.
Invest in simple-but-beautiful designs for your pet products. Stylish canisters to store your pet food, a modern leather leash that’s hung on the wall, or a pet bed that matches your color scheme provides easy access to the pet products you use every day without being an eyesore.
For cat owners with kids, consider a hidden litter box. Once the baby starts crawling, an open litter box on the floor is trouble waiting to happen. Plus, your cat will appreciate the privacy from prying kiddo fingers. You can purchase a hidden litter box or DIY one (here’s a great tutorial) if you’re handy.
With babies, cats, and dogs crawling around on the floor, you may want to avoid cleaners with potentially harmful ingredients. A safe guideline to follow is: if it’s not safe to eat, it’s not safe to clean with.
Forego traditional chemical-based cleaners for a trusted green cleaning brand (we love The Honest Company and Mrs. Meyers at Dooli™!) or make your own...
White vinegar mixed with water is an amazing natural surface cleaner. A paste of baking soda mixed with water works wonders to clean the oven or polish stainless steel appliances.
The nostalgic scene of kids feeding their broccoli to the family dog is cute and all. But the reality isn’t so adorbs: some healthy human foods are deadly to animals.
Bone up (no pun intended) on which human foods are unsafe for pets. Make sure older kids know not to share these foods and keep a watchful eye so little ones don’t accidentally poison Fido. Here’s a great post from the ASPCA on toxic foods to avoid.
Your crawling baby will also probably eat a dog or cat kibble along the way, so be knowledgeable about what’s in your pet’s food. It might be a good time to switch to an all-natural option so you won’t have an anxiety attack if your baby sneaks a bite.
While you can be one big, happy family in your home, it’s important to have some areas that are pet- and baby-free.
Keep the crib pet-free. This is your baby’s home, spending well over half of their early days in the crib. The height of the crib makes it easy to keep dogs out, while netting that covers the crib is effective for cats who love to jump.
Alternatively, create a space where the baby’s not allowed so your pet can escape if he/she needs to. Pets like to find safe places to rest and they’re comforted by quiet nooks. Consider making the dog’s bed or cat’s litter box baby-free zones.
A beautiful home doesn’t stop with the eyes. Just because you’re sharing your home with messy babies and pets doesn’t mean it needs to smell like you do.
When accidents happen (for cats, dogs, OR baby humans,) white vinegar is your deodorizing best friend. Mix 50% vinegar and 50% water in a spray bottle and douse the accident spot as soon as you discover it. (You can also add some vinegar to your laundry for extra odor-eliminating power!)
Baking soda is another natural odor eater. Dust baking soda into the litter box to minimize smells or sprinkle it onto upholstery or carpets and vacuum to remove stinky odors.
And, of course, you can use Dooli™ products to keep your home smelling fresh! Our 7-layer odor-barrier bags keep smells where they belong — far away from noses. Dooli™ bags are a perfect fit for the Diaper Genie® and Litter Genie® Compatible Bag Adapters, and are laboratory tested to keep stinky odors contained.
Check out our Diaper Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter & Refills + Litter Genie® Compatible Bag Adapter & Refills!
If you’re bringing a baby into your home for the first time, it’s smart to get your pets ready for the new addition.
Bring in new furniture early so pets have time to get used to it in the home. Leave baby clothes, blankets, and toys out in common areas. Start bringing a baby stroller on walks with your dog.
Get pets used to the sounds and smells, too. Play a CD of baby noises regularly so pets become familiar with the sound. Expose them to new baby smells, like lotions or bubble baths that you’ll be using regularly.
Modern moms juggling kids, pets, AND a job are embracing the reality that they can’t do it all alone. We’re fans of bringing in the big guns (aka hired help) to support you in creating a livable home, when your budget allows.
Hiring a cleaning person to freshen up your house helps pick up the slack during especially busy periods. Bringing someone in even once a month can make a big difference to the look and feel of your home.
Exercise is critical for a balanced pet. A dog walker can help your pooch get out extra energy so he/she will be calm and relaxed for snuggle time with the family.
Use an app like TaskRabbit to find great support in your area that fits into your budget.
If the key to happiness is learning to dance in the rain, the key to mom-sanity is learning to live in the mess.
Your home may not be as stunning as your Pinterest boards. But with these tips, it can still be a warm, cozy place to make memories with your growing family.
And when all else fails, lint brushes. :)
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