Parenting is one of the hardest but most rewarding journeys. Here we share all of the ups, downs and tips from our experience. Topics include: raising children, dealing with colic, coping with judgement, preparing siblings for the new baby, tips for partners, traveling with kids, and everything in between!

sex after childbirth

Sex After Childbirth

By Christie Collbran | August 15, 2016

Intimacy and sex after childbirth can be a source of concern or relationship tension for new parents. While this topic may seem taboo to some, it’s helpful to keep some factors in mind. Your midwife or doctor will likely recommend refraining from sex until at least six weeks postpartum whether you had a vaginal birth…

back to school

The Boo Hoo Breakfast Recipe

By Christie Collbran | August 9, 2016

My oldest starts kindergarten tomorrow. On this momentous occasion, I’d like to offer a recipe of sorts. Have you heard of the Boo Hoo Breakfast? This is when parents gather together at a diner or coffeehouse to commiserate and commemorate one of their babies heading off to school. Who wants to join us? The Boo Hoo…

how to do Disney

A Floridian Mom’s Tips for Disney with Kids

By Christie Collbran | July 29, 2016

I worked at Magic Kingdom in my late teens and it was my favorite job, aside from being a doula. I worked in a special section called “Glow.” We sold the light up toys at night during the parades. Each night I wore a different costume, based on where in the park I was working,…

the florida aquarium

Best Kept Secrets – Summer Fun in Tampa Bay – Part 2

By Christie Collbran | July 13, 2016

It’s mid-July and Tampa Bay parents are hot, tired and asking in unison… “When does school start again!” While we can’t make school start any sooner, we can tell you about a sort-of secret splash pad at the Florida Aquarium! Scroll all the way to the end for the best part of this cool destination. A…

newborn and siblings

Who Hires Postpartum Doulas?

By Christie Collbran | July 6, 2016

As awareness of postpartum doula support grows, many people ask us what type of family hires a postpartum doula. Here are just a few examples: First-time parents.  When bringing your first baby home, everything is new! Feeding, sleeping, diapering, washing, doctors, daycares… it’s enough to make even the most level-headed people feel slightly batty. Add in…

MOSI

MOSI: Best Kept Secrets, Summer Fun in Tampa Bay, Part 1 (updated July 2022)

By Christie Collbran | May 14, 2016

Hey Moms & Dads, One of the best things I ever did was get a MOSI (Museum of Science and Industry) membership. There are different levels but we bought a basic membership for a family of five. MOSI in Tampa has wonderful features that both of my children enjoy. There are educational exhibits to interact with, rope climbing…

Father bonding with baby

Partners Are Parents, Too! 3 Ways to Promote Bonding with Newborns

By Christie Collbran | April 26, 2016

 It’s a pretty common idea that a “great way” for partners/fathers to bond with your new baby is to express milk and let him/her feed the baby. And while it is a fun activity, expressing before your milk supply is well established – by your baby – is not recommended. It’s best for your baby…

Parenting Advice

The Problem With “Enjoy Them While They’re Little”

By Christie Collbran | February 17, 2016

If you have children, you’ve surely received this bit of advice multiple times. It’s a favorite bon mot, offered usually from wiser, older, more experienced parents and grandparents. It has happened to me in a group on Facebook, a grocery store, a public building and sitting on a park bench; a well-meaning, grandmotherly-type woman observes me…

New Years Resolution

I Made a Resoluation

By Christie Collbran | December 31, 2015

I am not going to shoulder the burden of mother guilt anymore.  You know this guilt: it’s an incessant mosquito whirring in your ear.  

Why I Carry My Baby

Why I Carry My Baby (updated in 2022)

By Christie Collbran | October 7, 2015

I love to carry my babies. I also like to be comfortable and maneuverable.  For those reasons, and the ones below, I’m passionate about sharing the “babywearing” love.  And in honor of International Babywearing Week, I’m happy to share that passion with you. 1. Baby is close to you.   On your back, side or front. Do…

These Are Days You'll Remember

These Are Days You’ll Remember

By Christie Collbran | September 15, 2015

Pregnancy. Our future. The hope of something magical and joyful. The near certainty of falling in love with the most beautiful person you’ve ever seen, your newborn baby. Despite the aches, pains, burps and stretch marks, pregnancy is a glorious time. I recall being so full of excitement, hope, love and joy with the growing child…

Baby Shane

Shane’s Birth Story

By Christie Collbran | December 20, 2014

Eight years ago today I gave birth to my first son, Shane. I have never published his birth story and it seemed appropriate today to share it. (*This story may be triggering for some.) “Sometimes the bad things that happen in our lives put us directly on the path to the most wonderful things that…