From indoor gardens and satin pillowcases to indulgent skincare and eye-catching accessories, these gifts for moms are perfect for her

Moms are amazing at so many things, but sharing their own wish lists during the holiday season isn’t always one of them. That’s why we’ve gone ahead and rounded up the best gifts for moms—and we mean every type of mom. Between ways for her to relax, options for beautifying her space, and just-for-fun goodies, you’ll find something she’ll love to unwrap this year. (As moms ourselves, we are experts at this sort of thing.) Read on for our picks to make their holiday merry and bright—and feel free to send an item or two our way if you’re feeling extra generous!

Clinique Cult Classic Lip Duo

Clinique

No two lip colors are more iconic than Clinique's Black Honey and Pink Honey Almost Lipsticks. They're universally flattering (seriously, every skin tone), so moms everywhere will adore this perfect-for-everyday-wear set.

Clinique Cult Classic Lip Duo ($15.00)—Buy Here!

Bombas Women's Holiday Ankle Sock 3-Pack Gift Box

Bombas

Easiest way to make someone cozy this season? This Holiday Sock Gift Box. Inside, there’s the comfiest socks in the history of feet, with foot-hugging arch support, seamless toes, and three different frosty friends, all bundled up.

Bombas Women's Holiday Ankle Sock 3-Pack Gift Box ($50.00)—Buy Here!

Zodiac Board Game

Anthropologie

Dinner parties, game nights, and slumber parties will never be the same again with this zodiac-lover's dream game.

Zodiac Board Game ($45.00)—Buy Here!

Antonia Cardi in Taupe

Joyfolie

Talk about instant-chic. Obsession-worthy is an understatement when it comes to this drapey cardi that can be worn with everything from loungewear, jeans, dresses—name it.

Antonia Cardi in Taupe ($88.00)—Buy Here!

The Salt Sphere

Material Kitchen

It's as if a pinch bowl and a cool kitchen decoration merged together. The Salt Sphere keeps spices within reach and includes a magnetic swinging lid to keep things fresh. Available in 2 finishes.

The Salt Sphere ($50.00)—Buy Here!

Julie Thevenot Enigma Glass Earrings

MoMA Design Store

Artist Julie Thevenot designs glass jewelry that gives the illusion of flowing water. These stunning earrings are an absolute showstopper with the opalescent sheen.

Julie Thevenot Enigma Glass Earrings ($185.00)—Buy Here!

Mark & Graham Leather Charger Roll Up

Mark & Graham

Small essentials get stowed safely away and tied securely with the leather tie for easy access, anywhere. Pick from one of the 8 lovely colors and add their initials with foil-embossed customization.

Mark & Graham Leather Charger Roll Up ($49.00)—Buy Here!

Kitsch Satin Pillowcase

Kitsch

Her bedtime routine is about to become a lot more luxurious with the Kitsch Satin Pillowcase. It's gentle on hair and skin, helping to prevent frizz, dry skin, and sleep creases. They're also available in a bunch of different colors and prints.

Kitsch Satin Pillowcase ($19.00)—Buy Here!

Tinybeans

Screenshots of Tinybeans, one of the best apps for moms and best family organizer apps
Tinybeans

Share joy. Connect generations. Do it all privately. Tinybeans is the photo sharing app that makes sharing your pictures with only the people you want to see them easy. You can easily and privately capture and organize your kiddo’s best moments and milestones in a single platform. Its intuitive interface, along with features like photobook creation and easy customization, make organizing and searching for memories a breeze. There's no better time of year to capture memories.

Tinybeans (Free!)—Get it Here!

Jiggy 'Enjoying the Pool' Puzzle

Jiggy Puzzles

Art-meets-crafts with this artist-created 800-piece puzzle. A percentage of each Jiggy Puzzle sold goes directly to the artist, and the puzzle comes in a reusable glass jar and includes a tube of puzzle glue, a straight-edge tool to spread the glue, and a print of the art to follow.

Jiggy 'Enjoying the Pool' Puzzle ($49.00)—Buy Here!

Sandro Textured Vase

Anthropologie

No matter what your style is, this textured, movement-inspired vase will fit right in. It's such a unique piece and is available in short (pictured) or tall.

Sandro Textured Vase ($44.00+)—Buy Here!

Apothékary Good Energy Starter Set

Apothékary

Made for moms who love having hours of energy, mental clarity, and focus (actually, who doesn't want those things?). This brain-boosting, mildly caffeinated set is stacked high with powerful adaptogenic herb and plant ingredients that are third-party tested for quality and efficacy. Formulated to skip stress, crash, and jitters, too.

Apothékary Good Energy Starter Set ($98.10)—Buy Here!

Cashmere Travel Essentials Kit

Gobi Cashmere

Whether she's a jetsetter or just loves to be cozy, there's no beating this responsibly-made cashmere travel set that includes socks, sleep mask, and blanket. Available in 3 colors.

Cashmere Travel Essentials Kit ($255.20)—Buy Here!

Our Place x Kin Party Coupe Glasses Set of 4

Our Place

Coupe glasses are having a moment, and we're not mad about it. They're beautiful, functional, and gives major Gatsby vibes. They come in a set of 4 in three color options.

Our Place x Kin Party Coupe Glasses Set of 4 ($95.00)—Buy Here!

LEGO Modern Art Build & Display Kit

LEGO

LEGO has never been just for kids, and they're proving it with this immersive build that's made to be displayed after it's all done.

LEGO Modern Art Build & Display Kit ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Carla Rockmore Sling Bag

Carla Rockmore

In black, merlot, or bourbon, this sling bag is perfect for everyone. It can be dressed up or down and is super comfortable to wear. The included zip pouch and exterior phone pocket makes it a bag they'll use for years.

Carla Rockmore Sling Bag ($195.00)—Buy Here!

FACETORY 12 Sheet Mask Gift Set

Amazon

With 12 different sheet masks for all skin types, designed to hydrate, firm, and boost radiance, this is a great way to help her add some much-needed self-care into her life.

FACETORY 12 Sheet Mask Gift Set ($24.95)—Buy Here!

Flowerhead Tea The Chai Kit

Flowerhead Tea

Comes with everything you need to make 10 sharable servings (and not from concentrate).

Flowerhead Tea The Chai Kit ($25.00)—Buy Here!

Beyond Bored Adult Activity Book

Brass Monkey

No one deserves to waste time more than mom, and with over 200 pages of fun time-wasting activities, she'll have no problem avoiding adulting for a while.

Beyond Bored Adult Activity Book ($15.00)—Buy Here!

PINK Faux Fur Crossover Slippers

Victoria's Secret

Slippers are literally never a bad gift idea. This cozy pair from PINK by Victoria's Secret comes in several cute colors, too.

PINK Faux Fur Crossover Slippers ($20.00)—Buy Here!

Vintage Bookshelf Edition Mystery Date Game

Anthropologie

Designed after the original 1965 game, this bookshelf edition board game is an unbelievably fun gift.

Vintage Bookshelf Edition Mystery Date Game ($34.95)—Buy Here!

Flex 360° 4 Wheel Suitcase

Rollink

We adore functional + adorable, and the Rollink Flex delivers. Available in multiple colors and 4 sizes, it collapses to just 6" for easy storage, plus it's so easy to maneuver through airports (or wherever you're going).

Flex 360° 4 Wheel Suitcase ($173.30+)—Buy Here!

Waffle Hoodie Poncho

Echo New York

Your favorite hoodie, but make it chic. From iconic accessories brand Echo New York, this hoodie poncho comes in black, too.

Waffle Hoodie Poncho ($129.00)—Buy Here!

The Lotion Candle

The Lotion Candle

Light the candle, let it melt, extinguish the flame, and nourish your skin with rich, warm moisturizing ingredients.

The Lotion Candle ($22.00)—Buy Here! 

UFO Metallic BAGGU Bag

BAGGU

BAGGU's best-selling reusable bag can hold up to 50 lbs (or 2-3 plastic grocery bags worth of stuff), and it folds down to a 5"x5" pouch so it can go everywhere with you. Comes in multiple colors and prints.

UFO Metallic BAGGU Bag ($18.00)—Buy Here!

Kikkerland Pickleball Set

Kikkerland

Pickleball isn't showing any signs of going anywhere, so she'll have ample opportunity to use this cute set.

Kikkerland Pickleball Set ($40.00)—Buy Here!

Ceramic Egg Dish

Smo Ceramics

A ring dish, spoon rest, catch-all—however you choose to use this adorable handmade egg dish, it'll brighten up any space.

Ceramic Egg Dish ($20.00)—Buy Here!

POPFLEX Game Day Dress

POPFLEX

It's a dress. It's a hoodie. It's your new favorite cozy piece. Wear it with sneakers, with tights, with leggings, and the defined waist is oh-so-flattering. Available in multiple colors and in POPFLEX's signature yummy fabrication.

POPFLEX Game Day Dress ($86.00)—Buy Here!

Mylk Bath Matcha Soak

Piecework

This organic Matcha soak has tulsi and eucalyptus essential oils for a subtle, bright and creamy scent, making your bath ultra-moisturizing and indulgent.

Mylk Bath Matcha Soak ($19.00)—Buy Here!

Ulike Sapphire Air3 IPL Hair Removal Handset

Ulike

The number of hours we spend shaving over the course of a year adds up (and it's kinda depressing, to be honest). The Air3 IPL handset offers a quick 12 minute treatment, skin-cooling technology for a nearly-painless experience, and results in only 3 weeks. 

Ulike Sapphire Air3 IPL Hair Removal Handset ($329.00)—Buy Here!

Doppelganger Celebrity Party Game

Perpetual Kid

Match your friends to the celebrity they remind you of the most (for any reason) and laugh yourself to a win.

Doppelganger Celebrity Party Game ($18.99)—Buy Here!

Wooden Spoon Herbs x Cap Beauty Light Ray Tincture

Cap Beauty

This tincture is designed to reveal radiance and luminosity from the inside out. Made with a  unique blend of herbs and superfood to hydrate, plump, and nourish for your clearest gleaming glow by taking just a few drops a day.

Wooden Spoon Herbs x Cap Beauty Light Ray Tincture ($35.00)—Buy Here!

Date Better Chocolate Variety Pack

Date Better

Chocolate-covered dates in 3 mouthwatering flavors—Peanut Butter Crunch, Almond Java Crunch, and Cashew Lime Crisp.

Date Better Chocolate Variety Pack ($36.00)—Buy Here!

Diamond Double Stacker Ring

MEJURI

We're so in love with this unique ring featuring a dainty diamond for some extra sparkle. It's easy to wear alone or as part of a stack.

Diamond Double Stacker Ring ($398.00)—Buy Here!

Great Fellow Kettle

Great Jones

The Stagg EKG electric kettle created in collaboration with Fellow means not only do you get a fabulous Stagg kettle; you get it in this special limited-edition Broccoli color.

Great Fellow Kettle ($165.00)—Buy Here!

Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin

Ritual

Moms are notorious for forgetting to take care of themselves. Make it easier for them with the genius that is Ritual Women's Multivitamin. It leads the pack in absorption, uses a 'beadlet in oil' technology that combines oily and dry ingredients in one caplet, and the mint essence keeps everything feeling fresh when you take it.

Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin (40% Off Your First Month through 11/28! Now $19.80)—Buy Here!

AREAWARE Totem Pillar Candle Sets

FOOD52

These candle art sets are gorgeous, and you can select from multiple color and style combinations to create the perfect display.

AREAWARE Totem Pillar Candle Sets ($68.00+)—Buy Here!

Seraphine Houndstooth Scarf

Sezane

Houndstooth will never go out of style, so the Seraphine Scarf is definitely an heirloom gift. Made of wool, it comes in 4 colors, too.

Seraphine Houndstooth Scarf ($90.00)—Buy Here!

AUK Indoor Gardening System

AUK

This starter set comes with everything you need to grow fresh herbs from your kitchen year-round: a complete Auk, 4 packets of seeds, coco soil, plant chip, and nutrients.

AUK Indoor Gardening System ($269.00)—Buy Here!

Farfalle Pasta Stud Earrings

Uncommon Goods

Choose from sterling silver or 14-karat gold vermeil, and know that each purchase provides meals for people in need across the U.S. and Mexico.

Farfalle Pasta Stud Earrings ($45.00+)—Buy Here!

Royale Cropped Recycled Puffer

Girlfriend Collective

Don't worry—only recycled plastic bottles were used to make this downy puffer jacket. It's ultra-chic and comes in 6 colors. Sizes XXA-6XL.

Royale Cropped Recycled Puffer ($198.00)—Buy Here!

Juliet Boxed Wine

Juliet

These handmade, sustainable California wines are boxed in chic packaging that creates 84% less waste than glass (while holding 2 full bottles) and keeps your wine fresh for up to 6 weeks. There are multiple options to choose from, too.

Juliet Boxed Wine ($35.00)—Buy Here!

ILIA Balmy Tint Hydrating Lip Balm

Sephora

Meet the gorgeous balm that looks just like lipstick but won't actually dry out your lips (your winter skin will thank you). Available in 8 flattering shades.

ILIA Balmy Tint Hydrating Lip Balm ($28.00)—Buy Here!

Buffy Breeze Sheet Set

Buffy

Cooling, amazingly soft eucalyptus sheets that are produced sustainably make for a perfectly luxurious gift.

Buffy Breeze Sheet Set ($100.00+)—Buy Here!

Elvie Stride Hands-Free Breast Pump

Elvie

For the new mom, the Elvie Stride is a massive timesaver. The best connected control on-demand and hospital-grade suction in-bra. With Elvie's smart, specialized breastfeeding app, you can fully manage your pump without so much as readjusting your shirt.

Elvie Stride Hands-Free Breast Pump ($269.99+)—Buy Here!

Santa Barbara Design Studio Champagne Gold Cheese Knives

Amazon

Dress up your next dinner or get-togethers with this beautiful cheese knife set.

Santa Barbara Design Studio Champagne Gold Cheese Knives ($54.00)—Buy Here!

Curdbox Cheese Subscription Box

Curdbox

Speaking of cheese, Curdbox includes a delivery of 3 cheeses, 3 pairings, information on all of them, and more. You can also include wine with your subscription gift.

Curdbox Cheese Subscription Box ($75.00+)—Buy Here!

'You Could Make This Place Beautiful: A Memoir' by Maggie Smith

Amazon

A story about finding beauty no matter where you are or what you're going through, in a way only Maggie Smith could write. Just read the absolutely glowing reviews.

You Could Make This Place Beautiful: A Memoir by Maggie Smith ($16.99)—Buy Here!

Yellow Leaf Signature Hammock

Yellow Leaf Hammocks

If there's anything more relaxing than a hammock, we haven't found it yet. The Signature is the most popular hammock from Yellow Leaf, woven with extra-soft yarn that's cozy and durable. There are multiple places to hang this baby, too, inside or out.

Yellow Leaf Signature Hammock ($199.00)—Buy Here!

Facial Ice Roller

Amazon

This one is a use-every-day tool that helps sculpt your face, depuff, and prep for makeup. It also just feels great.

Facial Ice Roller ($17.59)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

We’re here to celebrate the Big Guy himself (no, not Santa). Make his holiday merry with these gifts for dad

Whether they’re helping to put together new toys, busy in the kitchen playing host to the whole family, or making sure all the wrapping paper gets picked up, dads are just the greatest. Biological or not, these father figures keep our worlds spinning—but they’re also notoriously difficult to buy for. (Finding gifts for dad is no small feat!)

We made sure to put together a cool collection of worthy-for-our-hero gifts that go beyond the usual necktie or socks (not that there’s anything wrong with those!). From the grillmaster to the nostalgic, we’ve got every type of dad covered. He really is the best, so make sure he knows it with these gifts for dad below.

Knockaround Pacific Palisades Polarized Sunglasses

REI

With a cool retro look and FDA-approved impact-resistant lenses, there's no dad out there who wouldn't love protecting his eyes in style with these.

Knockaround Pacific Palisades Polarized Sunglasses ($32.00)—Buy Here!

Misunderstood Songs Game

Brass Monkey

A party game all about identifying songs–from the worst descriptions humanly possible? Sounds like it's right up dad's alley. 

Misunderstood Songs Game ($18.00)—Buy Here!

PARKIT Voyager Chair

PARKIT

This cooler-chair combo is brilliant. An insulated under-chair compartment, interchangeable cup holder, hands-free carrying, and 5 cool designs make this a gift he'll use all the time.

PARKIT Voyager Chair ($203.00)—But Here!

Tumbler Knife Sharpener

Tumbler

This viral (yes, viral! Just ask TikTok.) knife sharpener is like nothing we've ever seen before. Use the roller to slide the knife blade at two different labeled angles for the sharpest knives ever.

Tumbler Knife Sharpener ($129.00)—Buy Here!

Duke Cannon Handsome Man Travel Set

Bird in Hand

This kit has everything he needs for his next travel adventure. TSA-versions of the best Duke Cannon products, all tucked neatly in a clear travel bag.

Duke Cannon Handsome Man Travel Set ($36.99)—Buy Here!

Tetris Arcade in a Tin: Retro Handheld Tetris Game

Amazon

The Tetris Arcade in a Tin features an LCD screen and authentic arcade-style buttons, it's a retro game in the palm of his hand.

Tetris Arcade in a Tin: Retro Handheld Tetris Game ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Tinybeans

Tinybeans

Share joy. Connect generations. Do it all privately. Tinybeans is the photo sharing app that makes sharing your pictures with only the people you want to see them easy. You can easily and privately capture and organize your kiddo’s best moments and milestones in a single platform. Its intuitive interface, along with features like photobook creation and easy customization, make organizing and searching for memories a breeze. There's no better time of year to capture memories.

Tinybeans (Free!)—Get it Here!

The Leo Fender Guitar String Ring

The Leo Fender ring is a good gift for dads
Manly Bands

Black zirconium and silver Fender guitar string inlay make this ring the ultimate in style. Dad not really a music guy? No problem. Manly Bands also has a DC Collection, a Lord of the Rings Collection, and more, so you'll find the perfect match.

The Leo Fender Guitar String Ring ($595.00)—Buy Here!

SipScout Craft Whiskey Exploration Kit

The Crafty Cask

This set comes complete with 6 craft whiskey samples (enough for 2 people to share!), a printed guide, a video review of whiskey-tasting techniques, and more to create a whole experience at home.

SipScout Craft Whiskey Exploration Kit ($99.00)—Buy Here!

Dad's Customized Family Photo Book

Mixbook

Mixbook gives you a ton of templates to choose from and guides you through creating a customized book dad will love forever.

Dad's Customized Family Photo Book ($9.99+)—Buy Here!

HOKA Clifton 9

Zappos

HOKA's 9th edition of the Clifton sneaker is their lightest and most comfortable yet. It's perfect for everyday walking and running, and there's a reason HOKA is so popular; they've received the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance. They also last such a long time.

HOKA Clifton 9 ($144.95)—Buy Here!

hedley&bennett Essential Apron

hedley&bennett

The world-famous chef-approved hedley&bennett creates professional aprons for home chefs, too. This Bravo's Top Chef collab design is one of our faves, but there are so many to choose from.

hedley&bennett Essential Apron ($125.00)—Buy Here!

Phoenicia Diner Pancake Mix

Phoenicia Diner

Built in 1962 and moved to the Catskills in the early '80s, Phoenicia Diner is an icon. So it stands to reason that their famous pancake mix is going to be a welcome breakfast addition.

Phoenicia Diner Pancake Mix ($12.00)—Buy Here!

NFL 100 Greatest Moments

NFL 100 Greatest moments is a good gift for dads
Gild and Ash

For the football fanatic in your life, this collector's book will quickly become a prized possession, thanks to the storytelling and incredible photographs included.

NFL 100 Greatest Moments ($94.00)—Buy Here!

Stereoscope Coffee Subscription

Stereoscope Coffee

California-based Stereoscope Coffee creates a coffee subscription service with blends hand-picked by a Q-grader (consider them certified coffee experts) for a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly delivery of coffee that best represents Stereoscope. Roasted in L.A.

Stereoscope Coffee Subscription ($71.25+)—Buy Here!

Apple Watch Series 6

an apple watch is a good gift for dads
Apple

Give the gift of having everything he could possibly need in the palm of his hands—er, on his wrist. From keeping up with texts and calls to heart rate monitoring and reminders, Apple Watch does it all.

Apple Watch Series 6 ($241.28)—Buy Here!

Tom Bumble Candy Bar

Seven Sisters

Tom Bumble Candy Bars are a swirl of organic crunchy peanut butter, pure Madagascar vanilla, and organic sugar, wrapped up in fair-trade dark chocolate. This isn't your average candy bar.

Tom Bumble Candy Bar ($5.00)—Buy Here!

LEGO Natural History Museum Set

LEGO is a good gift for dads

With over 4,000 pieces, this LEGO set is perfect for any President/Lord Business-types out there (minus the Kraggle, of course). The roof comes off to reveal several exhibit rooms, there's an Apotsaurus fossil to put together, and several minifigures come with the set, too. 

LEGO Natural History Museum Set ($299.99)—Buy Here! 

 

Toadfish Non-Tipping Can Cooler

Toadfish

Unspillable? This can cooler from Toadfish is. It'll stick to any smooth surface and stay upright, on top of keeping beverages cold. Comes in 4 colors.

Toadfish Non-Tipping Can Cooler ($24.00)—Buy Here!

Fuego Box Hot Sauce Premium Collection

FOOD52

The folks over at Fuego Box have pledged to plant 5 trees for every crate sold, so you can feel extra good about gifting this selection of spicy blossom honey, Ghost Pepper–infused Himalayan pink salt, and three hot sauces: an everyday red, a punchy verde, and a very vinegary Carolina Reaper. 

Fuego Box Hot Sauce Premium Collection ($59.95)—Buy Here!

Apollo Thermal Capsule Phone Sleeve

Bespoke Post

Don't let him worry about an overheating phone ever again. NASA-derived tech that keeps your phone from overheating and keeps its battery from draining too quickly in the cold. It also case floats in water so it can be grabbed out of the pool fast, and it exceeds military-grade shock and impact protection when dropped.

Apollo Thermal Capsule Phone Sleeve ($30.00)—Buy Here!

Unbox Boardom Board Game Subscription

Unbox Boardom

Family Game Night won't ever be the same, thanks to this board game subscription box. Just choose the subscription plan you'd like to gift and give them something to look forward to with every delivery.

Unbox Boardom Board Game Subscription ($29.99+)—Buy Here!

Pelican Cooler Sling

The Pelican cooler sling is a good gift for dads
Amazon

The lightweight design with padded shoulder straps allows for ultimate portability and versatility with this cooler swing. It's also rugged enough to withstand whatever nature-lovers throw at it.

Pelican Cooler Sling ($173.47)—Buy Here!

Trilogy 3-Pack Socks by Stance

Bespoke Post

Using Stance's proprietary cotton blend, these iconic socks have a longer lifespan than your run-of-the-mill socks and offer light cushioning for a secure fit and oh-so-comfortable feel.

Trilogy 3-Pack Socks by Stance ($60.00)—Buy Here!

'Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama: A Memoir' by Bob Odenkirk

Amazon

It's possible you've only really fallen in love with Bob Odenkirk from his Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul days, but he's done so much over the years. Read all about it in this memoir. 

Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama: A Memoir by Bob Odenkirk ($21.15)—Buy Here!

Heim BBQ Signature Bacon Burnt Ends 2lbs

Gold Belly

Nothing can go wrong when you combine BBQ and bacon, and these melt-in-your-mouth Bacon Burnt Ends from Heim BBQ in Ft. Worth, TX are 2lbs (!!) of indulgent.

Heim BBQ Signature Bacon Burnt Ends 2lbs ($109.95)—Buy Here!

The Wes Anderson Collection: Bad Dads

Amazon

Curated by Spoke Art Gallery in San Francisco, this artwork inspired by the films of Wes Anderson ranges from paintings to sculptures to limited-edition screen prints from some of the director's most beloved films.

The Wes Anderson Collection: Bad Dads ($18.19)—Buy Here!

Vuori Steadfast Full Zip Hooded Jacket

a Vuori puffer jacket is a good gift for dads
Vuori

So versatile and filled with responsibly sourced down, this medium-weight jacket is flexible, weather-resistant, and comes in two sharp colors.

Vuori Steadfast Full Zip Hooded Jacket ($298.00)—Buy Here!

Cold Massage Roller Ball

this cold massage roller ball is a good gift for dads
Amazon

This roller ball rapidly reduces muscle fatigue and soreness, plus it stays cold for up to 6 hours after freezing.

Cold Massage Roller Ball ($19.99)—Buy Here!

ooni Koda 16 Gas Pizza Oven

ooni

Elevate outdoor cooking with this pizza oven from ooni. Perfect for any outdoor kitchen, it's hot in 15 minutes and your pizza is ready in 60 seconds.

ooni Koda 16 Gas Pizza Oven ($599.00)—Buy Here!

 

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

While baby showers have their place in the world (getting that many presents can be a major help to a first-time mom), they’re also a little bit played out—and do you really need to go through the games and hoopla if it’s your second, third, or subsequent child? That’s why we love this viral video so much. A mom shared how instead of a traditional shower, her friend threw her a “nesting party,” where all her friends came over and helped her clean and organize to get her house ready for a new baby to arrive, and TBH, that sounds so much more helpful than a shower.

“Every pregnant mom needs a nesting party. If you’re pregnant and don’t want a baby shower, do this. If you have a pregnant friend, do this for them!” mom Nia Lui wrote in the caption of her now-viral video.

@nialui21

Replying to @Haley Sheppard Every pregnant mom needs a nesting party. If you’re pregnant and don’t want a baby shower, do this. If you have a pregnant friend, do this for them! #nestingparty #nestingmom #nestingmode #pregnantmom #pregnancy #babyshower #nestingmama #thirdtrimester #ittakesavillage #myvillage @Bri Welcker

♬ original sound – Nia Mullet Mom

In the voiceover, she explains that she just had her nesting party, organized by her friend, Bree.

“I sent her a list of things that I wanted to get done before baby came and she made little cards for each person to take to take on a section of the house,” she says. “Then we took a dinner break, ate some soup, some sourdough bread, some treats, and just chatted about this baby and how it’s going to be. And then we got straight back to work and everything was so clean and organized. and I feel so much more ready for this baby.”

In the video, you can see Nia’s friends hard at work, cleaning, folding clothes, and getting her entire house, top to bottom, ready for her to relax with her new baby. Oh, and everyone who came brought a freezer meal so she’d be set with dinners post-partum.

It’s honestly genius.

In a follow-up video, Nia explained even more how she came up with the nesting party idea.

@nialui21

Replying to @katiecusic Nesting party answers. #nestingparty #babyshower #nesting #nestingmom #womensupportingwomen #momlife #sahm #pregnantmom #nestingmode #nestingmama #thirdtrimester #pregnancy #ittakesavillage #bethevillage #greenscreen

♬ original sound – Nia Mullet Mom

“This is our third baby, so we have everything. We basically don’t need a lot besides diapers and wipes,” she said. And for those wondering where her husband was during all the hard work? He had an important task of his own.

“He took our two boys. I have a six-year-old and a two-year-old,” she explained. “He took them out to an indoor play place, and they went to dinner and he kept them out of the house for three hours so that they wouldn’t be in the way.”

She added, “We got so much done, and it just made me feel so at peace in my own home and way better than a baby shower. So if you don’t want a baby shower or if this is your third or fourth kid, do this.”

New mom Elyse Myers is offering her (noncomprehensive) list of must-have postpartum products, and everyone with a newborn needs to see this

If you don’t already follow Elyse Myers on social media, why not? She’s absolutely hilarious and will make you smile every day. But she’s also one of the realest moms on social platforms. She just gave birth to her second baby, and in a now-viral video, she’s sharing some of her postpartum essentials that are saving her during round two (because even when it’s your second time, you still barely know what you’re doing).

“I’m nine days postpartum. Here is a non-comprehensive list of things that are very helpful for me postpartum—and also with newborn life—that I didn’t buy the first time around but I wish that I would have now that I’m using the second time around,” she says in her video.

https://www.tiktok.com/@elysemyers/video/7282092131332656415?_r=1&_t=8fyR2L17cgZ

The first is adult diapers, which, if you know, you know.

“Don’t even waste your time with the pads,” Myers says, which, if you know, you know.

The second thing she lists is a Peri bottle.

“The hospital is going to send you home with a peri bottle to help clean yourself when you go to the bathroom. If you can, just get one that’s upside down,” she says, with a picture onscreen of a bottle with an upward-facing nozzle. “Buy a separate one. Because then it squirts up at you so you’re not doing gymnastics when you’re going to the bathroom.”

Myers notes, as products #3 and #4, that the hospital will also send you home with pain and itch relief spray and witch hazel pads, but that it’s a good idea to stock up on both at home because you will run out.

The fifth item she mentions is a “quick-clean” sanitizing bag from Medela.

“You can reuse these 20 times,” Myers explains. “I exclusively pump and bottle feed, so I am constantly needing to wash my pump and wash bottles and I don’t want to wait for the dishwasher.” Instead, she says, she uses the sanitizing bags, which she can use in the microwave like a “mini dishwasher.”

Some of her other recommendations include a donut pillow for sitting on, a hospital-grade breast pump, and the Haakaa Ladybug, which she notes is shorter than the original Haakaa and more convenient because it doesn’t hang down while she uses it to collect breast milk. The last thing she recommends is a mini fridge to keep in the bedroom for storing milk for middle-of-the-night feedings, which saves her and her husband trips up and down the stairs and helps them get back to sleep faster (a game-changer when you have a newborn, of course).

As Myers notes, there are tons of other things she could share, because the list of things new moms could recommend to others is endless. But these do all sound like top-tier recs, and if they’ve helped her, they’re sure to help other moms.

I’m in the thick of my baby era. Just take a glance at my camera roll, google search history, or laundry room. This also means I’m in peak “research and test” mode on products across baby categories—currently it’s everything from chic baby gates to best diapers for sensitive skin.

I always try to shop mindfully when investing in new brands and I just can’t help but care about aesthetics along the way. (I’ve tried!) This led me to discover Dyper’s new line of Charcoal Enhanced Diapers. They’re eco-friendly, absorbent, super soft, and make a fun fashion statement.

I love reading reviews, so naturally writing one brings me great joy. 

To start, why would one choose a charcoal-enhanced diaper? I asked the same question. 

Why Charcoal?

My first introduction to charcoal as an ingredient was during the “activated charcoal toothpaste” era, and soon after, the deodorant boom. I quickly remembered that the antifungal, antibacterial, and detoxifying properties were the big “a ha” sell in the hygiene categories, and it makes a lot of sense to now be introduced in the disposable diaper category as well. The filtering and odor-fighting properties also give the diapers the distinctive black color that Dyper touts.

My husband and I took our roles as diaper testers very seriously. With the exaggerated care of food critics analyzing presentation, smell, and every burst of flavor a dish presents, we unpacked, unfolded, and evaluated the look, feel, and performance of these hypoallergenic diapers. It was fun! Luckily our son isn’t old enough to make fun of us (yet).

On to our top takeaways…

Soft, Absorbent & Great for Sensitive Skin 

I’ll admit I was nervous to try something new because my son’s skin is quite sensitive. And with the change of the season, we were told by our pediatrician to anticipate extra sensitivity. We’ve been exclusively using these charcoal enhanced diapers for five days now, and not a rash in sight. 

My husband’s first words when we unpacked the (very chic) Dyper box was, “Wow, quality.” We held the charcoal enhanced diaper in one hand, and one of our big box brand diapers in the other—wow indeed. Dyper was super soft and flexible unlike our current diaper, which suddenly felt so plastic-y and stiff. 

Running down the list of other stand-out qualities: They’re free from chlorine, latex, alcohol, perfumes, PVC, lotions, TBT, and Phthalates. Things I definitely don’t want hugging my baby’s sensitive skin. 

And in the ultimate test – no leaks overnight! Our son has been sleeping through the night (praise be!), but that means extra full diapers in the morning, and with it, an occasional “scent” in the room. Here comes the power of charcoal with filtering and odor fighting properties. Yes, please!

 

Flexible Sizing & Comfortable Stretch

We’re currently “in-between” diaper sizes. Has this happened to you? It can be a real mess, literally and figuratively. My son is 14 pounds which places him in both size 1 and size 2 sizing. After a lot of mental debate (typical me), I chose size 2 hoping he wouldn’t be swimming in extra fabric with a loose fit.  

Luckily I made the right choice, though I think I would have been safe either way as the entire front strip of the diaper is a super-soft attachment area zone, which lets you shift the fit to what you need. We were able to readjust easily to find the right spot for us without any issue, or any bagginess. A huge plus! 

My little guy is also constantly on the move, and I found that Dyper really stretches with him, in the way you want. 

baby with sensitive skin crawling in a charcoal enhanced diaper from Dyper

Mindful, Eco-conscious, and Chic

“Oh hey, fancy” was the reception we got from his teachers as we walked into his infants classroom at school with a sleeve of charcoal enhanced diapers in hand.

“They’re crafted in Japan.” I said with equally a cheeky tone.

When I shared that in addition to being a fun fashion statement, this was a clean, hypoallergenic, and eco-friendly diaper brand their interest really peaked.

Our Dyper box arrived just in time for the University of Georgia football game. For the rest of the season, our little babe will be able to sport our school colors of red and black, just like his dad. Very cute.


Of course, I’ve snapped so many pictures of him in his new chic baby briefs and shared them with my family through the
Tinybeans app…instant hearts and comments! “Proud great grandma of a little fashion model” was my favorite.

From one new mom to the next, it’s a thumbs up on this one. Dyper’s Charcoal Enhanced Diapers check the boxes on quality, comfort, functionality and eco-responsibility.

Now, on to find chic baby gates…


Expectant mamas, rejoice! Maternity fashion for fall and winter wardrobe staples to start rocking now

Gone are the days of boring maternity clothes! Someone finally got the memo that pregnancy styles can be comfy and cute, and we’ve put together our fave fashions you’ll want to replicate from now till the spring—or until your little one arrives. After all, you’re a superhero growing a whole life right now; you deserve to look and, more importantly, feel the part. These fall maternity clothes aren’t just practical, either. They’re also just as cute as your non-maternity pieces.

It’s not just oversized dresses and empire waists anymore. Some of these fall maternity clothes might even just become your go-to pieces even after your baby comes. You’ll also be able to take them with you into the upcoming winter months with just a few extra details (a cute scarf, a jacket, a puffer vest…). So say goodbye to the same black leggings and your husband’s t-shirts (at least sometimes, anyway). Our picks for the best fall maternity clothes has you covered.

Maternity Sweater Dress

Kohl's

You can dress it up, dress it down, pair it with booties, sneakers, vests, jackets, and blazers. It's the chic sweater dress and not only is it soft and stretchy, you'll be able to wear it in so many different ways that you might want to grab more than one. 

Maternity Sweater Dress ($40.80)—Buy Here!

Funnel Neck Dolman Sleeve Maternity Sweater

Pink Blush Maternity

We can't get enough of a good cozy sweater for the cold weather, and one that works with jeans and leggings is always going to be a win! This one is available is a huge selection of colors, too.

Funnel Neck Dolman Sleeve Maternity Sweater ($62.00)—Buy Here!

Straight-Leg Maternity Overalls

Target

Overalls are back, baby! These are a modern twist on an old fave with a chic indigo wash and a straight-leg silhouette. Pair them with a fitted tee, long-sleeve top, and fashion sneakers, and you're set.

Straight-Leg Maternity Overalls ($31.99)—Buy Here!

Maternity Monte Bianco Dress

Nuuly

With Nuuly, you can subscribe and rent any 6 styles for $98/mo. Wear them as much as you want that month, and if you love something, you can go ahead and buy it. Ready to try something new? It's free shipping both ways, so your wardrobe will always be right on trend. Just like this sweater dress with it's cable knit style and cozy fabrication.

Maternity Monte Bianco Dress ($98/mo rental)—Rent Here!

Maternity OGC Workwear Pant

Old Navy

These beauties are the ultimate in comfort while also allowing you to rock them from work to weekend! 

Maternity OGC Workwear Pant ($44.99)—Buy Here!

Maternity Utility Flannel Boyfriend Shirt

Old Navy

Fall isn't fall without flannel, and this plaid flannel boyfriend shirt is going to be the one you reach for over and over again. Get this look with the fitted turtleneck top!

Maternity Utility Flannel Boyfriend Shirt ($36.99)—Buy Here!

Kendrix Oversized Trucker Jacket

AG Jeans

While this fun piece isn't technically maternity, the oversized silhouette makes it easy for anyone to wear. Layer it over the plaid shirt above and you're set.

Kendrix Oversized Trucker Jacket ($265.00)—Buy Here!

Maternity Knotted Strap Fleece Overalls

Old Navy

If you're just not feeling denim, we got ya. These adorable knotted-strap overalls are super soft, have a relaxed fit, and can be worn into the winter, too!

Maternity Knotted Strap Fleece Overalls ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Floral Maternity Midi Dress

Pink Blush

We know that so many maternity pieces are floral, and while there's nothing wrong with that, we like this fall-ready modern floral with a bump-flaunting silhouette! Comes in burgundy, too.

Floral Maternity Midi Dress ($54.00)—Buy Here!

Linda Longline Knit Cardigan

Ingrid and Isabel

Who doesn’t love a good cardigan? Pregnant or not, we live in these throughout this time of year, and this soft dove grey layer can be worn during and after pregnancy! Talk about an investment piece.

Linda Longline Knit Cardigan ($69.99)—Buy Here!

Long Sleeve Side Ruched Maternity Tee

Motherhood Maternity

Wear it alone or as a layer (under overalls, perhaps?), and keep it in your closet after delivery! This tee is also great for postpartum and lounge.

Long Sleeve Side Ruched Maternity Tee ($30.00)—Buy Here!

Cooling Maternity Bodysuit

Woman wearing black maternity bodysuit

Show off that beautiful bump and stay comfy doing it! This bodysuit not only grows with you, but recovers with you, so you can wear it postpartum, and it offers a moisture-wicking fabric to keep you feeling as comfortable as possible. We're thinking we'll take one of each color.

Cooling Maternity Bodysuit ($52.00) Here

 

 

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Big (little) things are coming. It’s babymoon time.

Whether it’s your first, your last, or somewhere in between, expecting a baby is never a small thing. There will always be so much planning, prepping, researching, and the list goes on. And we’re not complaining. The excitement is undescribable. There’s just…a lot going on. Between all that work and, you know, growing a baby, we really can’t think of anyone who needs or deserves a break more than you, mama. Enter: the babymoon. Or, rather, the best babymoon rentals for inspiration.

In case you haven’t heard, you’re entitled to a babymoon, baby! What’s a babymoon? It’s the getaway you and your partner take before your little one joins your family. It’s typically a weekend or a few days of lowkey, kick-your-feet up, major relaxation. Babymoons aren’t usually a zip-lining or waterfall-jumping vacation; they’re meant to encourage you to rest. But with everything on your plate, you don’t have time to research where to go. So we did that part for you. We’ve put together more than 50 of the best babymoon rentals across the U.S. right here, so all you have to do is hit “Book Now”!

(Editor’s Note: If you’re pregnant, please make sure your doctor has approved airplane travel, physical activities such as hiking or swimming, and using a hot tub/Jacuzzi. Everyone’s pregnancy is different and we want to make sure yours is as healthy as possible.)

Wonder Valley, CA—Stargazer Private Desert Dome Tent

Located 15 minutes from the Joshua Tree National Park, this geodesic stargazing tent includes WiFi, shower access, mini-fridge, gas firepit with seating, electric blankets, yoga mats, and more!

Wonder Valley, CA—Stargazer Private Desert Dome Tent—Book Now!

Half Moon Bay—Airstream Camper

Get a load of the most vintage vibe we could find on the list on the California coast in Half Moon Bay!

Half Moon Bay—Airstream Camper—Book Now!

Mosier, OR—Stone Cottage in the Woods

This Tolkien-inspired stone cottage has 1 bedroom, 1 bed, and 1 bath, a wooden barrel hot tub, glass mosaic fireplace, bednook, and is surrounded by 27 acres of serene woods.

Mosier, OR—Stone Cottage in the Woods—Book Now!

Palmer, AK—Sweet Spot at Hatcher Pass

The guest house in this Palmer, AK subdivision boasts 1 bedroom, 1 bath, a smokeless fire pit, chicken coop, fruit and vegetable garden access, fresh eggs, and stunning Alaska surroundings. 

Palmer, AK—Sweet Spot at Hatcher Pass—Buy Now!

Ronan, MT—Calowahcan Cabin

Right at the base of the beautiful Mission Mountains, this tiny home will show you why this is Big Sky Country!

Ronan, MT—Calowahcan Cabin—Book Now!

Sun Tan Valley, AZ—Backyard Oasis

If the private heated pool and stunning backyard are up your alley, this 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in Sun Tan Valley, AZ is for you!

Sun Tan Valley, AZ—Backyard Oasis—Book Now!

Prescott, AZ—Casita with Amazing Views

Feeling a boho vibe? This casita in Prescott, AZ is, too! It's a modern open-plan studio with a king-size bed, kitchenette, sliding barn doors, and the most incredible views. It's also dog-friendly!

Prescott, AZ—Casita with Amazing Views—Book Now!

Wolf Creek, UT—Scandinavian Condo with Mountain Views

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and fully remodeled, the view of the Nordic Valley Mountains is just as peaceful as the interior!

Wolf Creek, UT—Scandinavian Condo with Mountain Views—Book Now!

Las Vegas, NV—Luxury Mountain Glamping

Combine a comfy queen-size bed, plush chairs, and carpet with a spacious tent and pristine Las Vegas mountain views and you have the get-back-to-nature babymoon of your dreams!

Las Vegas, NV—Luxury Mountain Glamping—Book Now!

Black Hawk, CO—Private Ranch House

No neighbors in sight when you stay at this property! Lots of privacy with a spa, amazing views, and a deep soaking tub with limitless hot water.

Black Hawk, CO—Private Ranch House—Book Now!

Taos, NM—Skybox Stargazer High Desert Retreat

A serious retreat under the unbelievable New Mexico skies, this is a home set on 30 acres of private land only 15 minutes from Taos Plaza.

Taos, NM—Skybox Stargazer High Desert Retreat—Book Now!

Austin, TX—Astonishing Abode

Bring the whole gang or keep it a little more intimate. Either way, this Austin home has the private outdoor amenities you'll adore.

Austin, TX—Astonishing Abode—Book Now!

Waco, TX—Perfectly Pink A-Frame

All pink inside and out, this ultra-Instagramable property is so much fun, you may not want to venture out. But in case you do, this beauty is only 10 minutes from The Silos!

Waco, TX—Perfectly Pink A-Frame—Book Now!

South Padre Island—Beach Oasis with Pool

If the beach is more your scene, this cute surfside condo is only 500 ft from the beach and was renovated in 2020!

South Padre Island—Beach Oasis with Pool—Book Now!

Broken Bow, OK—Boujee Bungalow

Located in cabin-famous Broken Bow, this luxury property sits on an acre of land and includes a gourmet kitchen, Jacuzzi, outdoor dining, fire pit, bistro lights, and more!

Broken Bow, OK—Boujee Bungalow—Book Now!

Council Grove, KS—The Landing

This gorgeous brick property is located in historic downtown Council Grove in the recently restored State Building!

Council Grove, KS—The Landing—Book Now!

Branson, MO—Tree + House at Indian Point

With views of Table Rock Lake, this modern treehouse sits 20ft up in the trees and offers 20ft floor-to-ceiling windows.

Branson, MO—Tree + House at Indian Point—Book Now!

Omaha, NE—Romantic Dundee House

A historic home offering a private patio with hot tub, front porch swing, and access to Dundee's restaurants and shops.

Omaha, NE—Romantic Dundee House—Book Now!

Ames, IA—The Ames Retreat

This fully renovated cottage-style home is within walking distance to Ames' restaurants, shops, and coffee. It also includes a sweet outdoor space with a firepit!

Ames, IA—The Ames Retreat—Book Now!

Minneapolis, MN—The Wolf House

Self-proclaimed "enchanted" Wolf House (and it does look pretty magical) offers an incredibly unique interior and a fantastic location in the NE Minneapolis Arts District!

Minneapolis, MN—The Wolf House—Book Now!

Manitowoc County, WI—The Lakeview Cottage

Sitting right on the shore of Lake Michigan, this cottage includes a hot tub and stunning views from every room in the house!

Manitowoc County, WI—The Lakeview Cottage—Book Now!

East Peoria, IL—Riverside Beach House

The idea of a wraparound deck, stunning panoramic views, and open-concept design really sounds like a majorly relaxing weekend to us!

East Peoria, IL—Riverside Beach House—Book Now!

Sanilac County, MI—Millie's House

Private beach? Yes, please! This tiny house is situated on a bluff just outside of Lexington, MI.

Sanilac County, MI—Millie's House—Book Now!

Jeromesville, OH—Whispering Pines Retreat

This one is a real retreat, thanks to the private beach, two person shower, and hot tub.

Jeromesville, OH—Whispering Pines Retreat—Book Now!

Audubon, PA—Swiss Chalet Retreat

This one is a mid-century-meets-ski-chalet property that feels secluded while still being within miles of local attractions.

Audubon, PA—Swiss Chalet Retreat—Book Now!

New York, NY—Central Park One-Bedroom

At West 82nd Street between Columbus and Central Park West, this classy apartment is within one minute of the Museum of Natural History, Central Park, and the subway!

New York, NY—Central Park One-Bedroom—Book Now!

Phillipstown, NY—Hudson Valley Yulin Cottage

Originally constructed in 1929, this adorable abode includes a cozy sunroom, fireplace, and sits on a secluded 1 acre of land!

Phillipstown, NY—Hudson Valley Yulin Cottage—Book Now!

Bakersfield, NY—Serene Modern Yurt

A spacious yurt located in the Vermont mountains! A Jacuzzi and fire pits add to the whole ambiance.

Bakersfield, NY—Serene Modern Yurt—Book Now!

Meredith, NH—Lake Winnipesaukee Cottage

We'll admit that the front door caught our attention first, but this newly-constructed cottage 6.5mi from downtown Meredith, NH has incredible views and sits right by Lake Winnipesaukee!

Meredith, NH—Lake Winnipesaukee Cottage—Book Now!

Boothbay Harbor, ME—Oceanfront Home & Guest House

This Boothbay Harbor home is a larger property, and almost every room offers quintessential Maine views of the water!

Boothbay Harbor, ME—Oceanfront Home & Guest House—Book Now!

Peaks Island, ME—Island Cottage

If you're looking for something a little cozier in Maine, this Peaks Island Cottage that's just a ferry ride away from Portland!

Peaks Island, ME—Island Cottage—Book Now!

Marblehead, MA—Modern Marblehead Home

This private home is within walking distance to downtown Marblehead and easy access to north shore communities like Salem and Gloucester.

Marblehead, MA—Modern Marblehead Home—Book Now!

Ocean City, MD—Ocean Block Condo

Beach lovers, this cute little condo is right on the beach in North Ocean City!

Ocean City, MD—Ocean Block Condo—Book Now!

Granby, CT—Windy Top Cottage

Windy Top Cottage is a stone guesthouse that's been renovated into a romantic getaway, complete with fresh country air!

Granby, CT—Windy Top Cottage—Book Now!

Cranston, RI—Waterfront Studio

It's the perfect hideaway! A boathouse located just 10 minutes to downtown Providence with a private deck and amazing sunsets!

Cranston, RI—Waterfront Studio—Book Now!

Peterstown, WV—Vista Modern Glass Cabin

Designed for those who live for the scenery, this Glass Cabin at Four Fillies Lodge delivers nothing but beautiful surroundings. Oh, and a hot tub!

Peterstown, WV—Vista Modern Glass Cabin—Book Now!

Stanton, KY—Seclusion Cabin

Combine a custom cabin and observatory tower, and you have Seclusion Cabin! It's ultra-unique and romantic, plus the koi pond makes it even more serene.

Stanton, KY—Seclusion Cabin—Book Now!

Tracy City, TN—the Trail House

The Trail House is aptly named, thanks to the private trail down to the water's edge, and offers a huge deck, huge windows, and is located in a private, gated tiny home community!

Tracy City, TN—the Trail House—Book Now!

Myrtle Beach, SC—Maisons Sur Mer Oceanfront Condo

On the 17th floor of the prestigious Maisons Sur Mer high rise in Myrtle Beach, the views are breathtaking, the interior is beautiful, the property also includes putting green, heated pool, tennis courts, restaurant, and more!

Myrtle Beach, SC—Maisons Sur Mer Oceanfront Condo—Book Now!

Savannah, GA—Gordon Inn Treetop

A stunning brownstone located in the heart of historic downtown Savannah, you'll get the full Savannah experience, right down to the private courtyard!

Savannah, GA—Gordon Inn Treetop—Book Now!

Seacrest, FL—Ramsgate Unit 6

It's easy to see why this is a happy place! White sand, emerald waters, and concierge service in addition to the stunning decor.

Seacrest, FL—Ramsgate Unit 6—Book Now!

Milton, FL—Tiny Cabin in the Woods

This is a relaxing tiny home on a relaxing 20 ares on Coldwater Creek!

Milton, FL—Tiny Cabin in the Woods—Book Now!

Grand Bay, AL—Cottage on the Farm

Miles away from the hustle and bustle, but close enough to Mobile for convenience (20 minutes!), this quaint farm is just adorable!

Grand Bay, AL—Cottage on the Farm—Book Now!

Ocean Springs, MS—Coastal Cottage

A cozy cottage where you're surrounded by everything a getaway should be? Sign us up!

Ocean Springs, MS—Coastal Cottage—Book Now!

Meadville, MS—Getaway Homochitto

This is truly a nature escape with a lockbox if you want to stow your cell phone and really disconnect!

Meadville, MS—Getaway Homochitto—Book Now!

Arnaudville, LA—Waterfront 1930's Creole Cottage

This authentic waterfront cottage is 50 feet from the Bayou Teche sports original art, high ceilings, and surrounded by pollinator gardens!

Arnaudville, LA—Waterfront 1930's Creole Cottage—Book Now!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

I felt well-prepared for motherhood. I have sisters, brothers, and friends who had kids. I’ve changed diapers, held sleepovers, heated bottles, and sang Itsy-Bitsy Spider. I was aware of Dora’s propensity to shout (we get it, you like your backpack) and the vital importance of Elmo.

More importantly, I’ve listened to my friends and family talk. I knew it wasn’t all going to be serene moments of love and family bonding. I had been told that post-baby I would need giant underwear for unspeakable reasons and that my boobs would explode and teach me a new and much less sexy understanding of “wet t-shirt contest.” I was informed that there are actual creams and unguents designed to relieve cracked and bleeding nipples.

Friends told me that my marriage would suffer. More than one promised that at some point post-baby I would look over at my husband and wonder: how could I have shackled myself to such an ignorant, selfish, deep-sleeping, mouth-breathing oaf for the rest of my life?

People told me that of course I would love my baby, but I wouldn’t always like her. They said that until the baby started to smile, it was normal to view her as insanely demanding, illogical, and egotistical. Friends told me to surf the hormonal waves rather than swim against them. They explained that if I needed to sit on the couch weeping over a Humane Society ad, that was perfectly acceptable.

The refrain I heard constantly, from friends, relatives, and even books was that the first six weeks were the hardest. They said that before that six-week mark, I should simply concentrate on keeping my baby alive, myself fed, and my husband not murdered. Showers, pants with zippers, a tidy home, and adult conversation were luxuries I would forego for a little while.

All in all, I figured that I had things under control. I cruised through those first six weeks with minimal angst. I was blessed with an easy baby, tons of help, generous maternity leave, and a husband who stopped complaining about how tired he was when I explained that he could tell literally anyone else on the planet about his exhaustion, but not me.

That’s why I was stunned to find myself at week seven on the floor of my daughter’s bedroom weeping and begging her to just Go. To. Sleep. Looking back, I realize that despite all of the advice, I was as ill-prepared as any first-time parent. As illogical as it sounds, some part of me truly believed that on the 45th day, my baby would start sleeping through the night, smiling when she saw me, and feeding according to a defined schedule. I thought that I would understand her desires and be able to meet all of her needs.

My life up until that point supported my belief that I would have control. I was a professional woman who had calm conversations with colleagues, got her reports in on time, and won praise for her efforts. I had mastery over all aspects of my life (except my hair: why so frizzy, why?).

Then 7.9 pounds of contradictions arrived. When I realized that my life was entirely dependent on this tiny person’s mood swings, I panicked. I resorted to books, devouring everything from The Happiest Baby on the Block (not mine) to The Baby Whisperer (it’s hard to whisper over ear-splitting screams).

I would figure out what the “right” thing was and do it. Problem was that the books couldn’t agree on a solution. Pick up your infant so she feels loved; if you pick her up, you’ll spoil her. Feed according to your schedule; follow your baby’s internal rhythms. No one was consistent, and nothing the experts advised worked on my little girl.

The books freaked me out, and the internet was even worse. Desperately searching for information on caring for seven-week-olds, I came across countless smug parents crowing about their fabulous sleeping, fuss-free, smiling babies. What was I doing wrong?

For three nights straight, I lay in bed and couldn’t sleep. I had a seven-week-old child and I also had insomnia. Those two things should not go together, and yet there I was. My baby was sound asleep, but I was wide awake, obsessively going over my rocking technique from the day before. Did I not shush-pat enough? Had I done it too much? Did my baby feel loved? Was I smothering her? How many hours, precisely, had she slept? I kept charts and tallies. I was making myself crazy.

Finally, in desperation, one freezing winter day I bundled up the baby in her stroller and trudged through the snow to meet my friend at her work. As I neared the city’s downtown core, I began to pass well-dressed women in high-heeled boots and spit-up-free jackets. These were women who spent their days working in offices with clearly defined goals and attainable markers of success. I had been one of these women only seven short weeks ago. Now I had on sweatpants but no deodorant.

I cried the whole way there.

My friend met me for tea and sympathy. She has three kids and knew what I was going through. She listened to me rant about theories on sleep cycles, eating schedules, and attachment parenting, and when I was through, she spoke. Kathryn reminded me of our girls’ trip, years ago, to Las Vegas. On the way to the airport, I experienced my usual pre-flight anxiety: I had checked and rechecked our tickets and passports; insisted on arriving two hours early, and made Kathryn forego all pre-flight shopping so that we could be seated at the gate when our flight boarded. Left to her own devices, Kathryn would have swanned into the airport with half an hour to spare, boarding the plane at the last possible moment.

Kathryn didn’t worry about missing the plane, but she did have a massive fear of flying. The instant she boarded she tensed up. She shushed me during the in-flight safety demonstrations, ascertained the exact location of her emergency exit, and gripped the seat so hard during takeoff that she left nail marks on the armrest. I, on the other hand, was as cool as a cucumber once I sat down in my assigned seat.

When we talked about it later (after Kathryn’s Xanax had worn off), I explained why I wasn’t afraid to fly. I had done all I could. I had gotten myself to the plane on time and was sitting where I was meant to. My responsibilities were over. The flight was going to happen, and if we were going to crash, we were going to crash. The power was out of my hands, and I could chill out.

Sitting in the coffee shop with my little girl asleep in her stroller, Kathryn leaned forward. “Your baby is seven weeks old. You have no power. You have no control. She is too little. You’re not flying this plane, Amy. The baby is. All you can do is bring your seat to the upright position, make sure your seat belt is fastened, and relax and enjoy the flight.”

I don’t know why the image of my infant daughter piloting four tons of complex machinery 30,000 feet above the Earth actually comforted me. Maybe it was simply receiving permission to let go. At any rate, I managed to relax, straightened my spine, and walked home through the snow.

I didn’t crack my baby’s code right away, but that was the low point in my journey to motherhood. It was a relief to be told to go with the flow and follow my instincts. At some point in that first year, I wrested control of the plane from my daughter. I’m the pilot now… at least until she hits teenagehood.

It was the night before the first full day of kindergarten. Bags of school supplies were piled in front of my son’s new, oversized backpack. I’d laid out his clothes on top of his dresser, clipped his nails as if for inspection. At bath time, I scrubbed the magic marker off his palms with unusual vigor. And after I tucked him in for a premature bedtime, I headed to the kitchen. There, my least favorite task awaited me. It was time to pack his lunchbox.

I’d purchased a bento box, somehow imagining those cute little containers may turn my son into a person he was not yet: an adventurous eater.

There was once a time when my son was not picky at mealtime. It was around the time he began eating solid food. I loaded his highchair tray with carrots and berries, boiled eggs and chicken. One evening, he devoured our takeout tikka masala, and I, a smug new mom, bragged about his palate to his daycare teacher.

“He may get pickier when he’s older,” she warned. And sure enough, perhaps a year later, she was absolutely right.

He began demanding less color, reveling in a new obsession with tan. Chicken nuggets. Mac and cheese. I’d sneak single green beans and tiny broccoli florets onto his plate, only to be greeted with tantrums. He didn’t want to eat them! He didn’t even want to see them! Still, I continued to try—exposure, I read, was the most important thing. And as his taste grew narrower and narrower, I found myself thankful that at least he still ate chicken nuggets. Because, you know, protein.

By the time we reached kindergarten, we had made a bit of progress (specifically in the fruit department). Still, I dreaded packing his lunch. I dreaded it because I had two choices: I could pack foods he would actually eat, or I could pack foods that I believed would make me look like a good mom.

That night before kindergarten with the bento box, I tried to strike a balance between aspirational and realistic. I wasn’t crazy enough to sneak in anything too exciting, like edamame (this, when I looked at lunchbox inspiration on the internet, seemed like a crowning achievement: a kid who ate edamame).

I packed a mix of healthy and indulgent. A hard-boiled egg. Strawberries. A peanut butter sandwich on white bread. Apple sauce. Some chips.

When I picked him up from school that next day, he looked tired. Almost dizzy. When we returned home, I signed his planner and opened his lunch box. The chips were gone, and so was the applesauce—but otherwise, it was nearly still full.

“Why didn’t you eat your strawberries?” I asked him later that evening. “You love those!”

“They didn’t taste right,” he replied.

For a week, then two, I did this: packed a lunch, and then the next day after school, nearly threw it all away. He returned home from school ravenous.

“What do your friends eat?” I asked him, exasperated. “Is there anything they eat that sounds good to you?”

“They eat the school lunch,” he replied.

I looked online at the meal schedule. The following day, they would be serving a hamburger and fries.

“Go ahead and order that,” I told him.

And sure enough, the next day, he returned home bright and smiling. He reported eating his lunch, happily, with all his friends. And then, the next day, he ordered and ate the spaghetti. Then the chicken and noodles. I quietly rejoiced.

Energy! Protein! And my son was, in fact, trying new things.

I’d let myself believe that my son’s diet was a reflection of my motherhood. I’d internalized the stigma that a school cafeteria lunch was somehow inferior to a meal packed from home.

But you know what is truly unhealthy? A hungry child. By saying yes to the school lunch, my son was still discovering new foods. He was enjoying a meal with his peers, learning that eating is about nutrition, yes, but it is also about community.

I’d believed so many messages about food having moral value, and I was inadvertently placing that burden on my son. It wasn’t fair that I expected him to make me look better by consuming what others deemed good. I’m continuing to say yes to the school cafeteria lunch—something my son is very happy about—and I hope making mealtime less stressful for us both will contribute to a positive relationship with food for the rest of his life.