Jessie J just emotionally revealed she’s expecting a rainbow baby after a miscarriage in 2021
Congratulations are in order for Jessie J! The “Price Tag” singer just revealed her pregnancy with a sweet, emotional video posted to Instagram set to her song “Sunflower.”
“I am so happy and terrified to finally share this,” Jessie wrote in the caption of the video, which showed her positive pregnancy test, a few shots of her growing bump, and other photos and videos from the journey so far. “Please be gentle with me 🫂 Honestly, ya girl just wants to ugly cry in public in a catsuit eating a chocolate-covered pickle with no questions asked 🤸🏻♂️”
This pregnancy comes after Jessie suffered a miscarriage just over a year ago, in November of 2021. Since then, she’s been open about the grief she’s experienced as she grappled with the decision of what to do next.
“When I was 16 years old, I wrote a list of things I wanted by the time I was 30. [First] thing on the list was to be a Mum,” the singer wrote in the caption of a now-deleted Instagram post last August. “Now I’m nearly 35 and some days the grief of losing a baby and it not being easy to have one, and wanting my life in that way to look completely different to what it looks like right now just overwhelms me.”
She continued, “I know it’s healthy and normal to have days of complete sadness and to honor all the feelings that come up, good and bad. The bad isn’t often at all and yes I could go through this moment right now today alone in private and usually do, but today I am here. Because I know thousands of people around the 🌎 feel just like I do.”
After all that heartbreak, there’s nothing Jessie J deserves more than happiness. Congratulations to this mom-to-be, and we hope she’s enjoying every moment of the journey.
The actress shared photos showing a cake with pink frosting, Pelphrey holding a baby onesie, the two kissing holding “papa bear” and “mama bear” mugs, a polaroid of Cuoco’s baby bump, and a slew of images showing positive pregnancy tests. It’s easy to say the duo both look elated.
Tom Pelphrey, of Ozark fame, also shared the happy news on his own Instagram account. “And then it was even MORE BETTER. 🎀🎀🎀. Love you more than ever @kaleycuoco ♥️🙏♥️”
Cuoco and Pelphrey first met at the Ozark premiere back in April. The became official in May and since then haven’t shied from sharing their love for each other on social media.
Now that the cat’s out of the bag (or rather, we know there’s a bun in the oven?), Cuoco is emptying her photo drafts like crazy to her Instagram Stories. Apparently, the mama-to-be experienced a fair amount of morning sickness and exhaustion, judging by the snap shots of her sneaking in naps in between film takes for her upcoming action film, Role Play.
Neither Cuoco or Pelphrey have revealed the big day––aka, due date––for when baby is expected. However, judging by the many posts since the announcement just yesterday, we’re guessing we’ll get to go along for the ride for months to come.
There’s a baby on the way for Tarek and Heather Rae El Moussa!
The reality TV couple shared the happy news with People magazine, and if fans are surprised—so are the El Moussas.
The mom-to-be told the magazine that the news was a major shock, especially given that they were actively pursuing fertility treatments. “We just weren’t expecting this. We had just gone through IVF. We had embryos on ice. We had a plan,” Heather explained. The couple had even gone so far as to schedule a transfer date before getting pregnant on their own.
Tarek was the one who encouraged Heather to take a pregnancy test while he was away on a work trip. After the first two tests showed negative, Heather nearly dismissed the idea of being pregnant, but the third time was the charm. Hilariously, she shared that when Tarek returned home and she showed off her big fat positive, he initially thought it was a COVID test.
Instagram
Tarek is already dad to two kids with ex-wife and former Flip or Flop co-star Christina Hall. Heather told People that she loves being a “bonus mom” to 11-year-old Taylor and 6-year-old Brayden, and initially hadn’t thought about having a baby herself.
“When we first started dating three years ago, we went into our relationship not planning on having children together,” she said. “But as your love grows more and more and you fall deeper in love with someone and you build this life together, I started picturing myself having a child with Tarek. I started thinking I just wanted to create something with the man that I’m in love with.”
The baby isn’t the only joint production the couple is working on, either. After Tarek’s success on Flip or Flop and Heather’s on Selling Sunset, the two will now join forces for an upcoming docuseries called The Flipping El Moussas.
Following the “rules for when our baby arrives” trend that’s been popular for some time, the expecting mom shared her eight-part list of boundaries that she is instituting when her bundle of joy comes. The list wasn’t outlandish or discriminatory––in fact, it was pretty much common sense and courtesy.
But that didn’t stop people from criticizing the 20-year-old mom-to-be, warning her that she was being too strict or that she’ll be too tired to enforce them when rude visitors show up at her door unannounced. But Crompton isn’t worried, and despite some of the negative Nancys, she’s had plenty of support, too.
“Honestly as a visiting guest I would feel so much more comfortable being handed this list so I can make sure I’m making the mum most comfortable,” said one comment. Another agreed with Crompton, saying “Love it, 👏🏽 I am the same way and DO NOT CARE who gets offended. Don’t like it?? Don’t visit us.”
Despite her boundaries being just the baseline for being a respectful human being, that didn’t stop tabloids like The Sun and the Mirror from picking up the story. The TikToker has done several follow-up videos on how she plans to enforce the rules, which doesn’t really involve handing over the list to family and friends. She’s actually crafted a thoughtful message that outlines her main priority, which is keeping her baby safe.
It looks like Crompton is already learning a valuable lesson: It’s never too early to protect your children.
For many moms, Mother’s Day typically includes breakfast in bed (or if you’re lucky, brunch at your fave restaurant), a little bit of pampering and a kid-made card that melts your heart. If you’re looking to go beyond an at-home celebration this year, check out these Seattle-area Mother’s Day activities that will help make the day extra special. From ball games and free museum days to train rides and cooking classes here’s how mom, grandma, auntie or any other special person in your life can make memories and celebrate the day.
There’s a reason why flowers are the go-to gift for moms on Mother’s Day. Spring's most spectacular flowers are in full bloom, and garden starts are finally rousing from their winter slumber. So if finding a great plant, bouquet or garden accessory is on your list of things to do with mom, you can’t go wrong with these options. For bright, bold blooms head to the Seattle Chinese Garden’s annual Peony Festival, where you’ll find gorgeous flowers available for purchase (or your viewing pleasure) and live performances too. If mom wants to spice up her garden with herbs, veggies and fruit starts, the Tilth Alliance’s Annual Edible Plant Sale, scheduled for Mother’s Day weekend, is the place to find what you need. It the go-to spot to find plants that grow really well in our temperate rainforest climate.
Krukeberg Garden in Shoreline is another great spot to hit. Over Mother's Day weekend parents will find plants to purchase, and kids can make a newspaper pot nasturtium planter (Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. only), so they can come home with a little something for mom too. If you’re on the Eastside, it doesn’t get easier or more festive than Oxbox Farm’s SpringFest. Explore the farm’s trails and nature playground before sitting down for an OxEd family activity and a farm-fresh meal from the Outdoor Kitchen. Trust us, Mom will thank you.
Spend the day at the market
Pike Place Market/PDA
A day at Seattle’s one and only Pike Place Market is sure to be a hit with any mom, especially when it involves live music, kids’ activities, a scavenger hunt and (undeniably our favorite part) temporary mom tattoos. Did we mention the 14th Annual Flower Festival and Free Comic Book Day are scheduled for that weekend too? You can’t miss with this pick. MOHAI’s Spring Fling on Saturday is another one to put on your radar. And if you’re willing to travel a bit, the Native Art Market at ALMA in Tacoma is worth it. They’ve got a covered outdoor patio where you can grab a gourmet bite to eat after you've shopped.
Take mom to a museum
Natali Wiseman
With so many amazing museums in Seattle, there are lots of Mother's Day outing options. But we’ve got our eye on the Museum of Flight where moms get in for free as a way to say thanks for all they do. Be sure to check out the museum's Weekend Family Workshop when you’re there. Kids can make a sweet keepsake for mom with a STEM focus. Families can also swing by the Seattle Art Museum to catch the latest exhibit—Our Blue Planet: Global Visions of Water—before it moves on at the end of the month. Hint: Lauren Halsey’s installation is also worth checking out when you visit. Treat mom to an afternoon of art and great eats, and don’t forget kids 14 and under are always free at SAM.
Bring mom to a game
Ben VanHouten/Seattle Mariners
She sits on the sidelines at every kids' sporting event known to humans, so it’s a total treat when families can sit together and enjoy game day from the stands. Three of Seattle’s most exciting sports teams are playing at home in Seattle on Mother’s Day weekend. Bring Mom to watch the Mariner’s take on the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday at T-Mobile Park. When you do, she’ll get a Mariner’s clear purse (for the first 10,000 moms in attendance) and kids (14 and under) can get a Mariner’s Bat Backpack as part of Little League Day at the game, too. Mom might also enjoy watching the Seattle Reign match against Louisville at Lumen Field on Sunday. Or if an early celebration is what you're after take Mom to watch the Seattle Storm play against the Minnesota Lynx on Friday night at Climate Pledge Arena. Go teams!
Soak up the scenery
Northwest Railway Museum
While a Mother’s Day hike at a local park is a great way to find a view on sunny day, families looking for a more relaxed approach to scenery seeking should check out the Mother’s Day train rides hosted by the Northwest Railway Museum. A great way to “blow off some steam,” families can board in either Snoqualmie or North Bend for the 90-minute round trip that passes by some of Snoqualmie Valley’s most picturesque scenery, including scenic Snoqualmie Falls. We’ll hope for clear skies and rainbows on your run.
Whip up something good to eat
courtesy PCC Markets
We heart programs that help kids plan something special for moms on Mother’s Day. Enter PCC Markets and two Kitchen Chemistry classes running the Friday and Saturday before Mother’s Day. Brunch is the theme of this in-person kids workshop (do you see where we're going with this?). When they are finished, kids will not only be able to make mom a special breakfast in bed, they’ll be able to do it like pros. If you've already got brunch covered, mom and the kids can sign up for a delish dumplings class in Bellevue on Sunday. You know what they say about the family that cooks together! They've got skills.
Eastside farms are making an outdoor Mother’s Day easy this year. It all starts with Kelsey Creek's Mother's Day on the Farm event that includes animal treats, goat walks and a special Mother’s Day surprise. Families can also add a little flower magic to their day when they sign up for the Mommy and Me in the Garden program at Farrel-McWhirter in Redmond. Blooms, animals and a sweet kid's craft are in store. Remember to register early for these popular events.
Laugh with mom
iStock
There’s no denying it takes a real sense of humor to be a parent. Prepare for some serious LOLs when you take mom to an improv comedy show at Post Alley. More than just “yo mama” jokes, the players at this all-ages show balance understanding the real struggles that come with parenting with poking fun at them too. The show is just an hour long (not too far past bedtime), so it’s an easy one to turn into a family outing, a low-key date night or a night out with your mom squad. Plus, moms get a discount on admission—no joke. Grab tickets while you can.
Sporty moms will flock to the Mother’s Day Half & 5K that gives racers the chance to run around one of the area’s most beautiful parks. The 5K is a great “first run” for newbies or folks running as a family. And the half might just bring mom a new PR on her special day. Moms can also run for a cause by registering for the Move4Mona 5K Challenge. Organized by a local mom, proceeds from this race are used to support educational efforts around the globe for all kids and empower women and girls, too. Sign up to race in Bellevue, Edmonds or your own ‘hood over Mother’s Day weekend.
Plan a mountain daycation
courtesy Suncadia
While spending Mother’s Day weekend at Suncadia Resort is a special treat, families can also plan a quick daycation to celebrate Mom. The day before the big day is when you should schedule your mountain adventure. That’s when families can shop the Mother’s Day Market at Nelson Farm or sign up for the tea party and craft class. There’s also an opportunity for Mom and a kiddo to learn a new skill like trout fishing, archery and hiking. All of these activities are open to guests and day visitors, but you will need to register. If you do make a staycation weekend of it, make your Mother’s Day brunch reservations at Portals and a spa treatment for Mom soon. Trust us, it's what mom really wants.
Moms wipe our noses and tie our shoes. Once a year, we like to thank them with a grand gesture (or maybe a series of small acts of love). If you’re looking for a bouquet of flowers, we have a Mom-owned local shop on this list along with other traditional treats, like spa products and beautifully scented candles. We also have fun picks, like Mommy & me matching swimsuits and therapeutic socks because, let’s face it, we’re always keeping Mom on her toes! Get ready to shop for Mom while supporting some of our favorite DC businesses (bonus: they’re mostly Mom-owned, too).
Treat mom to a proper manicure (or pedicure) with polishes from Black-owned nail polish company Janet & Jo. Named as one of the top nail lacquers on the market by beauty magazines like Allure, Nylon and Cosmopolitan, this DC-based business boasts bright, vivid colors perfect for the pool or beach. You can purchase Janet & Jo at The Wharf’s Shop Made in DC shop or online.
Mother’s Day is for moms-to-be, too! Toast to her first Mother’s Day with a tasty mocktail from DC-based Mocktail Club. Bonus: kids can upgrade from juice for a celebratory toast! Mocktail Club is sold at local Whole Foods and served in some restaurants so look for it in the wild.
If mom has a couple of mini mes running around, celebrate by twinning up. You can suit up for summer fun in mommy & me matching swimwear from Tea Collection. Tea’s Family Swim collection offers something for everyone in the family, from baby rash guards to trunks to one-piece swim suits featuring bold, vibrant patterns and 40+ UPF fabrics. Mom-and-Pop shops Wee Chic in Fairfax VA and Kinder Haus Toys in Alexandria, VA carry the line.
There’s a reason a flower bouquet is a traditional Mother’s Day gift: they’re beautiful, smell amazing, and have the unique ability to make the receiver feel pretty special. J. Morris is a Leesburg, VA mom-owned flower shop with insta-worthy arrangements. For $59, get a European-styled market bouquet (an exceptional value). J Morris offers local delivery in Loudoun County.
Trey + Glo Apothocary is an artisan candle company offering delicious, unique fragrances like the “Manoja” scent which smells like a five star hotel or a fancy spa—two things not kosher with social distancing. These soy candles come in different sizes and also wax melts; ranging from $12-25, they offer a high-end experience while being inexpensive enough to pamper your favorite mom with several. Trey + Glo was founded by Arlington mom and former beauty editor, Ayren Jackson-Cannady.
Moms deserve a long, luxurious soak in the bubbliest bubble bath ever, but most don’t have time for it. A shower can still be a quick pick-me-up. Entrepreneurial mom Anusha Moodly has whipped up the perfect shower steamers for her Falls Church company, Thulisa Naturals. Anusha offers four rich fragrances for a relaxing, energizing, or refreshing shower. For $15, Shower Steamers are the perfect way to make any mom feel like she’s indulging in a spa day while standing in a tub full of kiddie toys.
Like Mary Poppins’ mythical carpet bag, a mom purse (or diaper bag) is an endless source of anything anyone could ever want. That’s probably why they weight a ton. Lighten her load this Mother’s Day with a hoodie that does it all. This unisex hoodie ($98) has room for all of the essentials (and more) for those long walk around the ‘hood. With six inside pockets and two outside, this hoodie has room for diapers, wipes, bottles, snacks and possibly even the kitchen sink.
The Aviary Girls have a ton of cool crafts your favorite mom can do with or without the kids. Our pick: this adorable DIY flower caddy that is both practical and playful. Order your kit online and let them know if you want to pick it up in Stone Ridge, VA or have it dropped off at your front door for a $5 delivery fee. They also ship (shipping fees vary). If you need a little hand-holding when completing your craft, there is a library of online tutorials. Or sign up for a live class on Facebook.
They sound like something out of a fairy tale, right? We’re living in socks these days, so why not wear a pair that’s therapeutic? Silver Spun socks are made with yarn that contains pure silver. These socks have natural antibacterial properties, are super warm and soft, and conduct energy to keep your feet nice and toasty no matter the temperatures. Silver Spun socks was founded by DC resident and mom of two, Laurie Gonyea, who sources all of the cotton and silver in the United States. Made entirely in America, socks come in three different styles – boot, crew, and footie – so you can find a sock to meet your needs perfectly.
Created and curated by two Ashburn, VA moms, Brooke King and Julie Powers, the Mom Things subscription box offers all the creature comforts a mom could ever want. From the practical to fun, you can build your own box to make moms feel pampered, special, and appreciated. Or take the guess work out of this gift by choosing an already curated box, like the One Time Reset Box because, honestly, what mom couldn’t use a reset?!
Before Mrs. Bullard went viral for her “where do babies come from” video on TikTok, she spent her pregnancy navigating the whiles of being a science-lab teacher. The Huntingtowne Farms Elementary mom-to-be with a great sense of humor decided it would be fun to ask her students some parenting advice and they came through with a few gems!
As a prompt, she asked “If the baby is crying Mrs. Bullard should…” and well, you can see the hilarity that ensued in her video below.
From “make it a fruit salad” and “let it watch TV” to “give him cotton candy,” the list seems like a kindergarten or first grader’s dream come true––not necessarily a baby’s. It even appears some of the students are already prepared for their own parenting one day, embracing the cry it out method (“let it cry”).
Mrs. Bullard released a similar video before she went on maternity leave asking the same question and there were just as many nuggets of wisdom then as well. Some of our favorites include “run away,” “put on Cocomelon,” and “Just do your best and I just want to tell you’re not going to sleep.”
While the teacher releases some quirky videos on kids parenting advice, she is best known for her science videos on TikTok and Instagram. @Mrs.B.Tv has three million followers, all eagerly watching as the educator turns science into a tangible and exciting subject.
Started during the pandemic when all her students were remote learning, Mrs. Bullard wanted to create content that reached students from kindergarten through fifth grade. She’s done videos on everything from greenhouse gases and Boyle’s Law to working rainbows and elephant toothpaste.
She shares with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, “One of the most challenging things about being a teacher is staying relevant. Whether it is the latest dance trend or Fortnite, we have to find our kids on the platforms they’re comfortable with. A kindergarten student may not know how to log into Google Classroom or Canvas, but they can watch an Instagram video.”
Judging by her 43.2 million views, Mrs. B. is doing a great job at staying relevant.
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Not sure what to buy for your favorite new moms (or moms-to-be!) this Mother’s Day? These Mother’s Day gift ideas top our lists. You’ll find something just right for all the awesome mamas in your life, from sentimental gifts like jewelry and decor to practical items that simplify their lives.
Customize this handmade picture frame by changing the text and choosing one of the 54 background designs. Clip on a favorite photo and update it whenever you like.
Give a new mom or mom-to-be a gift that makes a difference. With a "Spread the Love" gift card to Welcome Baby USA, a low-income pregnant woman or family will receive a gift box of essentials necessary for baby's first four weeks of life, such as diapers and wipes, clothing, a baby carrier and hygienic items. The mom you honor will receive a beautiful gift card (above) explaining the valuable gift you've given in her name.
Pack smarter, not bigger. Leave the big, bulky diaper bag at home and head out with this minimalist's dream. A detachable changing pad folds out from the back flap, and a built-in waterproof pocket holds wipes or soiled clothing. Put credit cards and dollars in built-in slots, and attach your keys (or a pacifier!) to the key hook. There's also room for extra diapers and your phone. Wear the bag around your waist or over your shoulder. Either way, it will look great and won't slow you down.
The delicious tea varieties from Rae's Roots are designed specifically for new moms and pregnant women to improve mood, focus and energy. Expecting Mama Tea boosts immunity during pregnancy; Calming Adaptogen Tea helps reduce stress; Belly Soothing Adaptogen Tea calms an anxious stomach and boosts digestive health; and Milk Flow Lactation + Breastfeeding Tea contains ingredients effective in increasing breast milk production. Buy them individually, in gift sets with a candle and mug, or in the Motherhood Wellness Package, which features packs of all four teas.
Make people smile and win Instagram with this sassy mommy & me outfit combo. Both tops are made from organic cotton and hand-printed to order in Florida. The mom top comes in a t-shirt or tank (small to 2XL), and the kid top comes in a bodysuit (0-3 months to 12-18 months) or t-shirt (18-24 months to youth XL).
W. W. Norton
The Little Book of Support for New Moms by Beccy Hands & Alexis Stickland
This is the survival guide all new moms need. The tips are short and sweet and full of self-care, so you can get the advice you need, along with a confidence boost, and get back to your baby. Written by a doula and midwife, it shares tools and advice to help you heal your body, adjust to your new mama role while retaining your pre-mom identity, and enjoy your time with your little one.
Help a mom celebrate the name she chose for her little one with this unique customized art print that describes the name origin, history, usage and nine adjectives that embody the name. You select the size ((8x10 or 11x14), background color and can add custom text at the top.
These loose and flowy ponchos look chic while feeling soft and super comfortable, and they'll dress up leggings and jeans as well as a skirt. And at "one size fits most," you don't have to worry about how it will fit on a post-baby body. Plus, if breastfeeding, there's no more convenient nursing cover.
Founded by a therapist, this subscription box of self-care goodies contains 6-8 full-size wellness products to nourish mind, body and soul. Expect to unbox items for aromatherapy, baths, body, skincare and other lifestyle luxurious. Plans range from one month to a year. For pregnant mamas-to-be, the Oh Baby Boxes ($36+) deliver 6-8 goodies (wellness, skincare, maternity essentials and fashion) tailored to the trimester. Post-baby, the boxes shift to postpartum self-care essentials.
These Treehut rings let moms keep their kids wrapped around their little fingers. Each set comes with one birthstone ring and one ring engraved with a name. They look great on their own or stacked on top of one another. Pro tip: Rings are a great gift option for moms of little ones, since they're tougher for babies to grip in their tiny fists than necklaces or earrings.
Order this kit from Baby Mushroom and give your fave mama a set of five tiny fingers and five tiny toes preserved in clay for Mother's Day. We love this affordable keepsake set because it includes enough air-dry clay for two prints, hand and foot. In 20 years, we guarantee she'll still oooh and awww over this gift.
An Instant Pot makes a fantastic multi-purpose Mother's Day gift. This seven-in-one Instant Pot Duo lets families whip up dinner, baby food, rice and even yogurt in one single handy appliance. For a personal touch, wrap it up with a few of your fave Instant Pot recipes.
The luxe leather of ABLE's totes will look better with age and baby-inflicted scratches. Plus, socially conscious ABLE pays its workers a livable wage, so all their purses and totes make stylish gifts that moms feel good about receiving.
Look no further for a perfect first Mother's Day gift. With this necklace, she'll have a gorgeous place to put two adorable baby pictures. Plus, the smooth sterling-silver surfaces can be custom-engraved with a little one's birthdate. Then, Etsy seller Tyra's Handmade Jewelry adds a touch of sparkle with a birthstone of your choice and a first initial charm.
If you have an ever-expanding baby bump or a friend with a babe due any day, get ready to wow everyone. From an art center to a bakery to a rustic-chic office space (really!), we found baby shower venues in Chicago that mom-to-be and her guests will remember forever. Scroll down to see all of our picks — and read our list of top to-dos with baby in Chicago — and start the prep!
This fully furnished 2,000-square-foot open studio space in the heart of Ravenswood accommodates up to 150 people. It features two private bathrooms, kitchenette and reasonably priced hourly rates. They’re uber accommodating with catering—use your own or select from their preferred vendors—and they offer decor and event planning services should you need a bit of assistance.
4437 N. Ravenswood, Ravenswood; 312-479-1390; Online: ravenswoodloft.com
You'll "ooh" and "aah" when you walk in—promise. Catalyst Ranch is a unique space with a variety of rooms. It’s super-versatile, fun, large but not cavernous, cozy, bright and cheerful. In other words: everything you want in a baby shower spot. Also, it's perfect for people coming from the 'burbs, as it’s right off of the Kennedy.
656 W. Randolph St., West Loop; 312-207-1710, Online: catalystranch.com
Yep, a baby shower in an office -- and one you'll always remember for it's flexibility and rustic-chic appeal. You can bring in your own food and drinks, so it's the most reasonably priced of the bunch. They have tables, chairs, a sofa lounge area, an outdoor terrace, a kitchen and an assistant to help with your bash. This private loft space is a great option for those who want room to roam and a creative vibe.
We'll let you in on a little southside secret: This is truly a gorgeous building that not enough people know about. On staff are wonderful party planners that pretty much do everything, including budgeting, working with your vendors, decorating and more. Parking is plentiful and there are several rooms within the space that will change the vibe of your event (including an art gallery with rotating exhibits — fun!). Plus, they have in-house bartenders.
This adorable café and bakery has excellent brunch and afternoon tea options, with food served family-style (perfect for a cozy gaggle of ladies). You can also feel good about booking as they provide homeless and at-risk youth with jobs.
3720 N. Lincoln Ave., Northcenter; 773-880-9910; Online: blue-sky-bakery.org
Big, bold and club-y like no other, Oakbrook's go-to has a whopping six private dining rooms. The menu choice is vast, with a wide variety of platters, stations, buffets and plated meals (think steaks, bacon-wrapped scallops and the like). This is definitely “the spot” if price is no object.
298 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook; 630-472-0600; Online: theclubhouse.com
If you're looking for bright and cheerful, this ray of sunshine in Bucktown is your spot. Total bonus that you can have an incredibly beautiful — and delicious — cake waiting for you when you arrive. They'll even help with the logistics of catering, decorations, setup and all those little tiny details that go into making an event memorable for mama-to-be.
1944 N. Damen Ave., Bucktown; 773-384-4418; Online: urbanicing.com
This loft-style brick building was designed to pay homage to the urban essence of Chicago with exposed wood beams, large windows and a brick focal wall. It's beautiful, fresh simplicity provides the perfect blank canvas for your party. And an upside for a city location, parking is ample and guest access is convenient.
1858 W. Grand Ave., Ukranian Village; 312-651-6619; Online: space1858.com
The Lytle House
Have a baby shower that oozes cool at this 2,800 square foot space that has free-flowing indoor-outdoor spaces separated by a full-glass garage door and featuring high ceilings, exposed brick, factory windows, original industrial features and green space. You can even color customize the interior and landscape lighting — perfect for a gender reveal, perhaps?
5517 N. Broadway, Edgewater; 872-228-5591; Online: thelytlehouse.com
Children’s book publishing is a multi-billion-dollar enterprise that brings several thousand new titles—from read-aloud picture books to young adult literature—to market every year. Many of the annual offerings are good, but only a few are best. When it comes to children’s literature, annual “10 best” lists abound. The New York Times has one; so does Common Sense Media; and, of course, I have my own favorites that I contribute to this column every month!
But this month I wanted to honor the 100th anniversary of the gold-standard award for children’s literature, the Newbery Medal, which the American Library Association (ALA) has presented to the authors of “The most distinguished contributions to American literature for children” since 1922. The Newbery and the Caldecott (honoring children’s picture books) prizes are widely considered the most prestigious awards for children’s literature in the United States.
Selecting my favorites from among the many outstanding Newberys and Caldecotts was tough, but I focused on having at least one selection for each age group and included those that I find truly inventive, transcendent, or utterly hilarious.
Preschool
Sam and Dave Dig a Holewritten by Mac Barnett, and illustrated by Jon Klassen
If I was stranded on a deserted island, and could only bring one picture book, it would be this one. After reading it aloud over 50 times, it still makes me laugh, and I will never tire of the joy it brings to students of all ages. Sam and Dave are young boys out in the backyard with their dog, a canteen, and a few shovels, looking for “something spectacular.” They find an adventure for themselves, and how they do that is magical. Perhaps the moral of this story is that a spectacular day for a couple of kids is all about digging in the dirt, getting muddy, and stopping to smell the tulips… or are they daisies? Read this masterpiece with your children and find out.
Last Stop on Market Streetwritten by Matt de la Pena, illustrated by Christian Robinson
The first and only picture book to be awarded the Newbery Medal, this is a remarkable story of a young boy named CJ and his wise grandmother spending an afternoon together in a city. CJ asks the questions our own children ask all the time, and Nana’s answers are ones that we should remember. Nana teaches the at first reluctant boy to celebrate life, music, friendship and the joy of service. “He wondered how his nana always found beautiful where he never even thought to look.”
Kindergarten
Interrupting Chicken written and illustrated by David Ezra Stein
At bedtime, Papa chicken prepares to read a favorite book to the little red chicken, but before beginning, he reminds her not to interrupt the story. Reassured, he begins “Hansel and Gretel,” but just as the two children approach the witch’s house, up pops the little red chicken, exclaiming “‘DON’T GO IN! SHE’S A WITCH!’ . . . THE END!” The childlike humor of this adorable picture book will bring laughs from kids, because everyone knows the original stories. As each page is turned, the tension heightens, until Papa eventually falls asleep. There are more in this great series including, Interrupting Chicken and the Elephant of Surprise, and Interrupting Chicken, Cookies for Breakfast.
Grades One & Two
No, David written and illustrated by David Shannon
David Shannon wrote the first draft of this Caldecott Honor book at the age of five. “No” and “David” were the only words that appeared in his original book, as those were the only words he knew how to spell. We see David as he is quite naughty, reaching for a very high cookie jar, tracking mud on the carpet, banging pots and pans, and even running out the door without clothing. Finally David plays ball in the house, breaking a vase, and that is the last straw for his mother. Off to his room, feeling low and in tears, David and his mother eventually embrace as she says, “Yes David, I love you.”
Grades Three to Five
Hello Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly
Friendship and courage are resounding themes in this story told in several diverse voices. Taking place entirely in one single day, and features four middle schoolers: eleven-year-old Virgil is a shy, sweet boy who loves his grandmother; Valencia is a deaf nature-loving and lonely girl; Karoi is a Japanese self-proclaimed psychic; Chet is the class bully. When one of them is put in a life-threatening situation, leaving the others to be strong, brave, and decisive, an intriguing plot with beautifully articulated characters unfolds.
New Kidby Jerry Kraft
The first graphic novel to win the Newbery, this is the story of thirteen-year-old Jordan Banks, who transferred to a new school. He wanted to go to art school, but his parents insisted on a prestigious private school known for academics, where Jordan is one of few kids of color in his grade. He experiences prejudices and stereotyping from both kids and faculty, as well as verbal bullying. At times funny and at times uncomfortable, this book is the ultimate guide to what it feels like to not fit in.
Middle School
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
It’s 1979 in New York City, and twelve-year-old Miranda is helping to prepare her mom to be on “The $20,000 Pyramid.” First, there is a fall-out with her best friend, then mysterious notes begin appearing, claiming that a life needs to be saved, and predicting things that haven’t happened yet. Miranda is incredibly smart—her favorite book is A Wrinkle in Time, which leads her to believe that time travel is involved. This part science-fiction, part mystery book will keep readers guessing until the last, unexpected, chapter.
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Keira Pride is the Head Librarian at Stratford School, the leading independent private school founded with a vision of creating a unique, multi-dimensional, educational foundation for children. As Stratford's Head Librarian, she manages the library services department across campuses throughout Northern and Southern California.
