The Top of Mind Newsletter by New Modern Mom is your guide to a fulfilling life, packed with wisdom on motherhood, travel, career, style and self care. Get the latest resources, news and musings right to your inbox.

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Have you heard about the concept of a ‘Yes Day’? I’ve wondered what exactly all the hype is about?  Jason and I are in constant discussion about whether we “give in” to Caden too easily. Truth be told, we have differing opinions. For example, he’s okay with Caden wearing his rain boots on a sunny […]

Motherhood

What Is a Yes Day for Kids
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Finding the best breastfeeding snacks that are not only tasty but also promote good health and milk production can be a bit daunting. After all, when you’re juggling the responsibilities of a new baby, you crave convenience as much as nutrition. Meal prep can certainly help here, but there are tons of easy to grab […]

Best breastfeeding snacks
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As moms, we’re always on the lookout for the safest, most effective ways to take care of our little ones’ boo-boos, right? From scraped knees in the park to those mysterious little cuts they somehow always seem to get, it’s like a never-ending cycle of ‘ouchies’ and ‘uh-ohs’. I’ve always preferred to take a natural, […]

This holiday season feels so much different than the past few. Caden is old enough (3.5 years old) to really understand that the holidays and festivities are occurring. I think all of us moms want to make this time magical for our little ones, but as usual we just can’t do all the things. So […]

printable snowman
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sick season is upon us, which means you’ll likely be battling your toddler to take medication sometime soon. There is nothing worse than your child having a fever, but refusing medication to help ease the temperature. They are upset, you are upset, it’s all around a frustrating experience. I want to help you understand how […]

Caden demonstrating how easy it is to get a toddler to take medicine
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If there’s one question that keeps popping up amidst my circle of expecting friends, it’s this: “Do you really like your Lalo High Chair?” And let me tell you, my response is always a resounding yes. Here’s the thing: a high chair isn’t just another baby product. It’s a piece of functional decor that’s going […]

lalo-new-high-chair

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Oh that journey home from the hospital with your new baby is so emotional: exciting and terrifying all at the same time. Choosing the best going home outfit as a new mom is a necessary step in packing your hospital bag. You’ve just accomplished something extraordinary, and your go home outfit should make you feel […]

Motherhood

Mom wearing her going home outfit, holding her newborn
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’ve got some exciting news for you! Lalo, a beloved brand among modern parents including me, just dropped their newest product, The Play Box, for babies and toddlers starting from newborn to 2 years old. And it’s giving Lovevery, the OG of subscription play boxes, a run for its money. So I decided to put […]

lalo play box vs. lovevery play box
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You’ve recently given birth and are wondering when your body’s going to start its cycle again. It’s a common question that many new moms have, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. Ovulation signs after giving birth vary from woman to woman and depend on various factors such as whether you’re breastfeeding, your overall health, and […]

Woman holding a thermometer

Whether you are actively trying to conceive or using a natural form of birth control to actively not get pregnant, knowing the signs of ovulation and recognizing when ovulation is over is key to success. So I tapped into an expert, Dr. Nicole Tod of North Texas Women’s Healthcare, to walk us through the subtle […]

Woman looking at a digital thermometer
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Deciding which is the best breast pump for work is one part of the complicated journey of returning from maternity leave. Pumping at work, and finding the right equipment, setup and routine are tasks that can seem daunting, but we’re here to help you through it. This guide is designed to help you navigate the […]

Woman using silver laptop
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You’re in the postpartum period, and it seems like your body has taken on a life of its own. From healing from childbirth to adjusting to the demands of breastfeeding, it can feel like you’re on an emotional and physical roller coaster. Essential oils are a wonderful way to ease some of the discomforts that […]

An amber essential oil dropper sits in front of a twig of cotton

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Let’s face the truth: motherhood isn’t all sunshine and lollipops. Sometimes, it feels like an endless cycle of sleepless nights, tantrums, and never-ending laundry. And in those moments, you might catch yourself thinking, “I hate being a mom.” I hate to admit it, but I often… like multiple times a week don’t feel like “moming.” […]

Motherhood

Mom screaming while children are playing
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When it comes to my diaper bag, I have two rules: 1) always restock it after the kids go to bed and 2) pack minimally. This allows for a less chaotic exit out the door in the morning, and ensures I don’t have permanent back damage from schlepping a little one, and all the stuff […]

diaper bag essentials
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you’ve been following me for a while, it’s no secret that my family really values a good, home-cooked meal. So as you’re preparing for those chaotic days and weeks with a newborn, I highly, highly recommend building up your freezer stash so dinner doesn’t become a stressful topic. Freezer meals prepped before the baby […]

best freezer meals for new moms

You’re expecting a baby girl and considering giving her a name that stands the test of time. As someone with a vintage name myself with a bit of Southern vibes, Barbara Gail, I definitely support your decision. Vintage girls’ names, those that were popular a century or so ago, are making quite a comeback. From […]

vintage girl names
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You’re expecting a baby boy and want to call him something that’s a bit out of the ordinary, something with a connection to the past – a vintage boy name. It’s time to take a nostalgic journey back in time to explore some charming and lesser-known names for boys. From the strong and stoic, embodying […]

vintage boy names
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Breastfeeding is a beautiful bonding experience, but let’s be honest, it’s not without its challenges. One of those challenges? Pumping on the go. You need to carry a lot, and I mean a lot, of stuff. Let’s dive into best breast pump bag options to help you find the perfect fit for your unique pumping […]

Young mother bottle feeding her baby

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While there are countless options when it comes to gifts for new moms, I recommend prioritizing items that will make their journey into motherhood a little less daunting and a lot more comfortable. Plus some splurgy treats they may not have otherwise bought for themselves are sure to be a hit. In this list, I’ve […]

Motherhood

Pregnant woman standing by a crib in a nursery
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

An honest mom’s review of kids multivitamin showdown: Hiya vs. Olly I try my best to be that parent who serves my child healthy food. But let’s be honest here… as a full time working mom I can’t always do it all (although weekly meal prep certainly helps), and sometimes macaroni and cheese, fish sticks, […]

Hiya Kids Multivitamins vs. Olly Kids Multivitamins
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

An honest review of Coterie diapers, the upgraded disposable diaper worth the splurge + 20% off your purchase Update since originally writing this post: I’m now a mom of 2, with 2 littles in Coterie diapers and can confirm I am STILL obsessed! Coterie Diapers are one of my top must-purchase items for your baby, […]

I have to admit, there are a lot of premium products I purchase for my baby, but expensive wipes had never been one of them. In the search for baby wipes safe for sensitive skin, I landed on Water Wipes, Pampers Aqua Pure and Coterie. I ended up using Pampers Aqua Pure with Caden after […]

Expensive Baby Wipes Showdown
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Yogurt Melts Showdown Introducing solids is a lot of work (here are some tips from a pediatrician). Between preparing food, feeding and cleaning up, your time spent for mealtime increases exponentially. Of course I was so excited when Willow started to master the pincer grasp, because it meant I could start introducing foods where […]

Yogurt Melt Showdown: Amara Smoothie Melts vs. Happy Baby Yogis
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’ve spent HOURS researching skincare for myself. Little did I know I’d end up doing the same for my baby. When my daughter developed a red splotchy rash all over her face and neck, I knew I had to find a solution. I needed a face cream made for baby’s sensitive skin in mind that […]

ellaola review

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The Strategist recently published an article saying Target’s Millie Moon diapers are a Coterie dupe. Naturally, I was intrigued. Is it possible for a cheaper diaper to be as luxurious as my favorite, but pricey, Coterie diapers? I love a good deal, so I had to find out for myself. Here’s my review to answer: […]

Motherhood

coterie vs millie moon
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Meal prep has become an essential part of our week, and such a good habit I encourage you to get into. We cook most nights; one because we love to cook; two because it’s healthier; three because it’s more economical. And because we both work from home, that means breakfasts and lunches are also at […]

Weekly Meal Prep (Plus My Grocery List)
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Alright, the final countdown is on to order those last minute holiday gifts for that special toddler in your life. Here’s what Caden asked for this year. Best part, I checked and they all are available on Amazon Prime to arrive before Christmas (for now). Happy holidays! 15 Last Minute Holiday Toddler Gifts from Amazon […]

15 Last Minute Toddler Holiday Gifts from Amazon

Which high chair doesn’t sacrifice form for function? I put them to the test. One of my biggest concerns as a first-time-mom: my beautiful, curated, clean and organized home becoming a chaotic frenzy filled with unnecessary, and worse, ugly, baby products. So as with everything, I approached my research on high chairs with scrutiny. I […]

lalo vs. stokke
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When my newborn started breaking out in a scary red rash, I discovered those baby products I was using weren’t actually developed with sensitive skin in mind.  Motherhood is full of surprises. The number of google searches for “is this normal” in the first few months of my baby’s life has exceeded my total years […]

Baby Lotion Review: EllaOla vs. Aveeno vs. Cetaphil
Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a guest post from my good friend and talented writer, Amanda Gregolunas, mama of two under two. As I approach the final days of my pregnancy, I’ve found myself getting more and more nervous for the days soon to come, trying to balance being Caden’s mama along with being mama to a brand […]

advice for second time mom