
Toddler=sunshine mixed with a little hurricane. Anyone else feel like their houseplants are sometimes better listeners than their toddlers? Those moments can be so, so hard. We hear you mama (even if you kiddo doesn't seem to). We promise that you're getting through to them. Just keep on' keepin' on. You've got this. XO, TeamMotherly

“Playing dress up starts at age 5 and never truly ends"—Kate Spade. When it comes to raising independent kids, scientists have learned that it's all about attachment. So go ahead and give them that extra cuddling and doting when they need it. You're setting them up for success, and making your mama soul happy while you're at it. XO, TeamMotherly P.S. Speaking of cuddling, wrap you and your toddler up in love and softness in this gorgeous sweater from Ingrid + Isabel.

And because it’s teaching him self-sufficiency and responsibility. (Plus, it’s helpful to mama!)

I see a mess. You see a masterpiece. I see trash. You see independence.

You can't teach the fun of “getting down and dirty." It must be experienced.

Some of the best brain-boosting activities are more old-fashioned than Pinterest-worthy—and we’re good with that!

You don’t learn how to be patient in moments of crisis, but instead by anticipating what’s to come.

Thank God I stole these from my husband because really—what would my life be without them?

When we say no to help from our friends, we are robbing them of their happiness. And let’s be honest, we are robbing ourselves of some much-needed help.

And we shouldn’t have to feel guilty for wanting this precious time with our baby. Or selfish for wanting to still get paid during this time.

Visitors—I need you to bring me coffee and let me shower. ☕?

Moms watching shows while doing all the other stuff moms have to do makes perfect sense. #multitasking

After much thought and deliberation, I had to find a polite way to put a stop to all the toys and—believe it or not—our family and friends thought it was the best idea ever.

Who needs a summer vacation the most? Moms. (No kids allowed.)

I don’t want them to worry for a second about the pizza sauce on their face or the ice pop stain on their shirt or the dirt on their feet.

When work gets busy just in time for baby’s arrival, take a deep breath and remember you’ve got this!

They said that the love in your heart multiplies. I get it now. I physically feel it.