30 Things to Do in ATL Before Baby’s 1st Birthday

I'm thrilled to share my first column on Mommy Nearest! Hop on over and discover 30 Things to Do in Atlanta Before Your Baby’s First Birthday! Your baby's first year is a whirlwind of highs, lows (it's not all rainbows and unicorns, y'all) and milestones.  Just because your little one won’t remember these special moments, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t explore—even if it’s just to leave the house for a change of southern scenery! Whether its sipping on Chick-Fil-A milkshakes or cruising the Beltline, there's no shortage of fun in the ATL. 

Spoiler alert! Perhaps I'm biased, but the best part of my column is Genti's surprise cameo. The picture was snapped at Lenox Park, his favorite place to stroll and visit ducks. It's also #24 on my list!

If you're unfamiliar with Mommy Nearest, it's time to take note!  Mommy Nearest was founded in New York City by a group of people who believed that finding family-friendly places shouldn’t be difficult (riiiight?!). Whether you want to discover where other local parents are taking their children or you’re traveling to a new city and need inspiration on what to do, the Mommy Nearest app and mommynearest.com is with you every step of the way. 

I have leveraged the Atlanta section many times to find free happenings and recommendations for family-friendly restaurants, coffee shops and more. Before a recent trip to NYC, I tapped into a few articles to help navigate and maximize a short weekend trip with Genti in tow. It's an amazing resource and I recommend giving it a try. With tons of helpful articles, Mommy Nearest definitely helps take the guess work out of parenting. Check out the Mommy Nearest website or download the Mommy Nearest app on the App Store or Google Play. 

My Fave Podcasts

Whether I'm fumbling through my morning routine or cruising to work with a Starbucks latte at my side, its highly likely I'm listening to a podcast. After I had my son, I started to spend less time in front of the TV, which meant less awareness of current events, pop culture moments and business happenings. What I really missed were compelling interviews with movers, shakers, celebs, politicians and entrepreneurs. I fell into Podcasts and haven't looked back. If a particular topic or person interests me, I'll search and tune into an episode. Along the way, I've found a handful of Podcasts worthy of subscribing to. There's definitely a female empowerment-inspirational-kick ass theme that weaves throughout my faves. If you have a favorite Podcast, be sure to leave a comment below. I'd love to check it out!

CTRL, ALT, DELETE Podcast hosted by Emma Gannon is truly a favorite. Emma is British (which makes her infinitely cooler than me) and a blogger, author, speaker, and, of course, Podcast host. Her ease and approachable nature with guests makes me feel like I'm sitting in the interview room, quietly listening in. In particular, I love her interviews with Estée Lalonde, Lena Dunham, Liv Purvis, Sophie Kinsella, Tanya Burr and Victoria Magrath. I'm a huge admirer of female content creators, so these particular episodes are right up my street. The heart of each guest interview is centered on how the Internet and social media has forever changed our lives - a topic that never ceases to amaze me. 

The Ladygang Podcast hosted by Keltie Knight, Jac Vanek and Becca Tobin has literally gotten me through tough traffic jams, less-than-inspiring work tasks and plenty of mornings in front of my mirror. Imagine the conversations you have with girlfriends over a boozy brunch or a GNO dinner....boom, Ladygang in a nutshell. Whether they're sharing Hollywood pitfalls, interviewing famous guests, or discussing "Mirror Mantras", you're guaranteed to laugh. A few of my favorite episodes include interviews with Ali Fedotowsky, Tia Mowry, Louise Roe, Jenni Pulos and Dina Manzo. 

Girlboss Radio hosted by Sophia Amoruso provides a healthy dose of fearless-intelligent-kick ass female inspiration. If you're seeking the courage to make an entrepreneurial leap of faith or in need of solid advice, you must tune into Girlboss. Sophia interviews legit girlbosses who have blazed trails in creative, cultural and business ventures. From Skimm co-founders, Danielle Weisberg & Carly Zakin to CEO and Co-founder of Class Pass Payal Kadakia, there's definitely a Girlboss interview that will resonate with you.

Lady Lovin hosts Lo Bosworth (m'fave cast member from The O.C.). Jilly Hendrix and Greta Titelman break down female empowerment, relationships, health, wellness and NSFW content with humor and a healthy dosage of truth. For me, Lady Lovin is reserved for early mornings or my commute homes when I need a laugh or release. I often find myself wondering why I didn't move to NYC as a young, single 20-something...but I'll go ahead and live vicariously through these girls while I navigate Buckhead in my early-30s. 

NPR's How I Built This Podcast features innovators, entrepreneurs and idealists. If you're curious to learn about the struggles, triumphs and pitfalls of brands like Spanx, Warby Parker, Kendra Scott, Lyft, Airbnb, Kate Spade, Melissa & Doug...than look no further! Thoughtfully hosted by Guy Raz, each interview is an informative discussion on the realities of building a business. If you've built something from nothing - or just daydream about it - you'll love everything about this Podcast. 

Career Reflections + An Exciting Change

Remember me? I launched a blog and then fell off the face. Where'd I go? Let's take it from the top. 

Last August, I left a long-term job when an opportunity to work with a startup came my way. The role was an exciting challenge which included the establishment of the company's entire marketing infrastructure. There were no set rules, no set schedule, no red tape - just empowerment to get the job done. The sugar on top was the ability to spend quality time with my son. The previous months were filled with stress, unsustainable hours and a preoccupied, anxious mind. I was rarely present during our limited hours together. I was too busy checking emails, monitoring social media, tracking hashtags, sweating over the next day's to-do list, oy. I was missing his milestones and those sweet, simple moments you're supposed to soak up because that little baby will soon become a big boy. For so long, I loved my job, but I craved a change. I wanted the challenge of starting something from the ground up combined with the flexibility to take a mid-day park stroll. I took the job - and crushed it. 

The decision to work for a startup was, hands down, the best career decision I ever made. I gained invaluable experience that's impossible to obtain in a large, established organization. I was on the front line to so much - funding, grassroots, public relations, blogging, talent acquisition, website design, social media, mobile technology - you name it. I embraced the new and enjoyed the journey.

In February, I launched Lattes + Latitude, a personal goal of mine for nearly a year. I was so proud and rode a wave of momentum. But, God has a funny way of shaking things up on ya. 

Around the time Lattes + Latitude launched, my contract with the startup was coming to an end. I fulfilled my duties and was ready to embark on a new challenge. The hours I allocated to my blog were used for resume updating, LinkedIn scouring and networking. A short time later, I interviewed for an amazing opportunity that was perfectly aligned with my personal career goals and interests. Days later, I was offered the role as a Brand Manager for a new brand launching this Spring! When the time is right, I'll share more. In the meantime, I'm ramping up and adjusting to my new schedule (which includes an easy ATL commute where I listen to podcasts and pick-up a mobile Starbucks order). 

During my job hunt, I connected with a former colleague over the phone. After downloading her on my recent career highlights, she paused and said, "I think it's really courageous that you took matters into your own hands and made such a big change." That single sentence made me feel like a million bucks. I wanted to shake the shoulders of everyone who silently judged my transition and yell, "See?!"

What is the lesson in all of this?

YOU are in charge of YOUR career and overall happiness. 

As cheeseball as this sounds, have faith and don't be afraid of failure. Take an unknown path and make the most of it. Even if the path is short, it can lead you to an amazing destination. 

To my friends and family, the ones who let me vent, stress, laugh and spazz during the last seven months (you know who you are), thank you for the never-ending support. This gal loves you to the moon and back. 

The Reality of Pre-Baby Expectations

Before I became a Mom, I was "certain" about so much. The reality is, you don't know what kind of parent you will become until your little one officially arrives. Many of my pre-baby expectations have been kissed goodbye...and I'm grateful I gave in. In a relatively short time, I've learned to ease up and not be hard on myself. Enjoy a few of my initial, and, hopefully, relatable expectations. 

That Was Then: "I won't let the baby play with my iPhone."

This is Now: "Here you go, buddy." *Hands over the iPhone* 

Ha, this is laughable! The iPhone (or iPad) is a lifesaver. I tried to keep it at bay, but I gave in months ago. Around 10-months, changing G's diaper became an aerobic exercise. He rolled, kicked and cried so much I would sweat. What kept him calm and stationary? The iPhone. 

More importantly, we're raising G to be bilingual. My husband's first language is Albanian and it's important that G learns the language to communicate with family. Unfortunately, Albanian language tools aren't as accessible compared to Spanish or French. Thanks to YouTube, we've introduced G to traditional kids music, nursery rhymes and programs about letters and numbers. He's learned so much and, yes, currently speaks more Albanian than English. Bravo!  

That Was Then:  "I'm always going to have a diaper bag prepped and ready to go."

This is Now: "Where's the diaper bag? Where are the diapers?  Are there snacks in this thing?" *Tosses diaper bag, huffs around house in search of lost items.* 

Listen, my intentions are always good. Our steady state diaper bag is packed and waiting on our main floor. Despite that, sometimes an item gets left out. But...you know what? As long as I have diapers, wipes and G's EpiPen, I refuse to get worked up. On an average day, we're cruising around Atlanta...not the rainforest. If I forget something, there's a Target, CVS, Publix or Kroger nearby. I've used a gazillion paper towels on a changing station when I forgot the changing pad. I've asked a waiter for a cup of boiling water to clean a pacifier that fell on a gross floor (yes, this is true). Improvise. Life's too short.  

That Was Then: "My baby is going to wear the cutest, most stylish outfits ever!"

This is Now: "Do you wanna wear your comfy pants?" *Ignores denim unless necessary* 

Real talk, Genti has a cute wardrobe but he rarely wears denim or matchy-matchy outfits. I have my favorite brands (I'm looking at you OshKosh, Baby Gap & Zara) but 9.5 times out of 10, he's wearing an outfit featuring a crew neck sweatshirt, cotton t-shirt, jersey pants or sweat pants. Little guys are always on-the-go and need to feel unrestricted and comfortable. He'll wear denim or dressy outfits on special occasions but that's it. Outfits featuring suspenders, bow-ties, complicated buttons and fussy layers rarely see the light of day.

That Was Then: "My baby will only eat organic foods!" 

This is Now: "Would you like some blueberries?" *Note: February is not blueberry season.*

All jokes aside, G eats very healthy foods. If I let him, he would live on blueberries, cucumbers, corn and coconut milk yogurt. I'm 100% the Mom who sprinkles chia seeds in his morning oats and afternoon smoothie. If I can swap honey for sugar, I'm all in. When possible, I opt for organic meats, fruits, veggies and snacks. However, I try not to loose sleep over it. It'll be OK...enjoy life! 

That Was Then: "I will take advantage of all the free-admission, baby-friendly, stimulating activities around town!" 

This is Now: "Want to play...with your toys...in the living room? *Ignores leaving the house with the diaper bag...which is probably missing items, anyways.* 

I love Atlanta and all it offers for babies, toddlers and kids. But sometimes staying home feels just right. My heart is most full when the three of us cuddle and watch an episode of Sesame Street. I'm happily entertained when my husband and G wrestle and horseplay on the living room floor. Life moves a million miles per hour. I want to enjoy these simple, sweet moments before our boy grows up.

5-months pregnant & full of knowledge

Can you relate? Leave a comment below and share your own favorite "That Was Then, This is Now" moment!

6 Tips to Help You Win at Breastfeeding

This January, I closed a significant chapter in my Mommyhood journey. There's a part of me that can't believe I'm writing this, but, here it goes...

After 19 months, I stopped breastfeeding. 

I never imagined breastfeeding beyond a year, nor did I imagine writing about such a personal experience in a public forum. However, I've grown comfortable with discussing breastfeeding and discourage others from referring to breastfeeding as a taboo topic.

It's important to know I don't judge women who refrain from breastfeeding or who nurse for a different duration of time. We're all trying to be the best Moms we can. Sometimes physical or personal circumstances impact breastfeeding and each woman's decision is hers. As long as your baby is fed and cared for you're doing an outstanding job, Mama!  {{hugs}} 

While pregnant with G, I set out to breastfeed for one year. If I came up short, I knew he would be just fine. But we did it and I consider this my greatest accomplishment as a Mom. I learned the importance of sacrificing self comfort for my child's needs. To be 100% responsible for nourishment is a monumental task.

As G grew, and solid foods were incorporated into his diet, I felt pieces of weight lift from my shoulders. He was getting much-needed nutrition from alternate sources and I was so grateful the process went smoothly. When Genti turned one, I continued nursing due to two upcoming international vacations. Breastfeeding would provide the comfort he needed on long plane rides and in different enviornments. Afterwards, I started to drop daytime pumping and feeds. 

I knew G was ready to transition when the dreaded 18-month sleep regression started. It was brutal. His 4-5 cries a night weren't because he "needed milk," he was just requesting to be pacified. We were both sleep deprived and, finally, I waived the white flag. Two nights later, he was done and sleeping through the night. I miss our quiet time together, but, wow, I am finally rested! 

Since I've become a Mom, I've discovered a sincere love of swapping tips and tricks with my girlfriends and fellow Moms. If I were sitting with them over a glass of wine while wearing an over-sized sweatshirt and yoga pants, this is exactly what I'd share: 

Ask for Help: Blessed are the women who dedicate their lives to lactation support. I did not shy away from the expertise of Lactation Consultants at my local hospital and G's pediatrician's office. In fact, I scheduled an appointment with a LC before my maternity leave wrapped. Together, we discussed my pumping plan and she provided invaluable support.

Hydrate: The more hydrated you are, the better! I noticed a serious drop in my supply if I skipped my water intake. I would drink three 24-ounce servings of water at work and another at home thanks to my large Tervis Tumbler. Hydration is so easy to overlook, but it makes a significant difference. 

Establish a Pumping Schedule: When I returned to work, and G was completely dependent on milk, I established a strict pumping schedule. Every day, I scheduled three pump sessions and booked a Mom's Room (the company I worked for had amazing, clean rooms for Moms complete with refrigerators, sinks and comfy chairs). I rescheduled conflicting meetings and updated attendees if I needed a delayed start or an early departure. To be candid, my work was important, but not as important as taking care of my baby. As he grew, I eased up and moved my pump sessions to accommodate my workload. Thanks to a consistent routine, I successfully maintained my milk supply for a year. 

Genti visiting the Mom's Room 

Develop a Storing and Cleaning Routine: For months, I cleaned and sterilized pump parts and prepped the next day's bottles. This process required some go-to products including Medela Steam Bags, Boon Grass Dryer Rack, Boon Bottle Brush & Lansinoh Storage Bags. When I came home from work, I would smother G in kisses and promptly kick-off the cleaning process. If I waited until the late evening or following morning, I loathed myself. Cleaning pump parts isn't exactly manual labor, but it's cumbersome, and can be an annoying way to start  or end the day. Committing to a routine kept me sane. 

Travel Away From Baby With Ease: If you're traveling without baby, Milk Stork is the ultimate lifesaver! Milk Stork is the first and only breast milk delivery service for traveling moms, providing no-fuss, refrigerated, express shipping or easy toting of your breast milk to your baby back home. Prior to your departure you simply "plan your trip" on the Milk Stork website. After the trip is planned, your box is sent with pre-printed shipping labels. 

I used Milk Stork on a business trip to California. When I checked into my hotel, the box containing storage bags, ice packs, labels and packing tape was waiting for me. All I did was pump, assemble the box and leave it with concierge who coordinated the shipment. Within hours, my milk arrived back home, fully chilled, ready for G. The cost ranges from $79-$159. Thankfully, my one-and-only trip away from G was work related and my previous employer paid for two boxes and shipments. I was so grateful! 

My Milk Stork shipment complete with a personal love note

Prep for Travel: I've traveled a significant amount of miles while breastfeeding, so I've nailed the packing list. Preparation is key, Mama! In my carry-on, I packed extra storage bags, steam bags, a new bottle cleaner and a spare set of pump parts in case my luggage was lost. I secretly dreaded breastfeeding on a crowded plane but, quite frankly, I had no choice but to get over it. Thankfully, the Bravada Nursing Bra is super comfortable and helped keep things discreet. For added privacy, consider packing a scarf or a breastfeeding cover to keep you and baby comfy. Prior to an international trip, I purchased a Medela Manual Pump. I feared losing my luggage or encountering issues with the adapter on my standard pump. I brought both and the manual ended up being a lifesaver! I only used it a few times, but it was easier than schlepping around my standard pump. 

Post-feed Selfie

Share your tips in the comment section below. I'd love to read your insights and recommendations!

Packing a Diaper Bag for International Travel

Since we've been married, my husband and I have traveled to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, England and beyond. Together, we've mastered the art of traveling as a couple. He's in charge of passports, I'm in charge of snacks. He always wears comfy jeans, I opt for yoga pants. The list goes on! When we decided to start a family, we weren't ready to give up our adventures. Thankfully, I married a European who loves visiting family and friends abroad. As planned, we tackled Ohio, Macedonia, Turkey and Denmark by the time our son, Genti, was 15-months-old.

With each trip I've improved the art of packing the in-flight diaper bag. For me, the key is to balance minimalism and practicality. On our first transatlantic flight, we packed the Baby Bjorn. In hindsight, it was a mistake. Genti could only handle the Baby Bjorn for a few minutes, if at all. Why would he suddenly enjoy it for more than 15 minutes during our travels? Naturally, we were stuck carrying it around from flight to flight. Rookie mistake! 

I've gone from agonizing over the in-flight diaper bag to #nailingit. Below is my list of current go-to items and tips. 

Timbuk2 Prospect Backpack: I used a traditional diaper bag featuring shoulder straps on my first domestic flight with Genti. I quickly realized I needed both of my arms. My husband bought me the Timbuk2 Prospect and I LOVE it. This particular bag has convenient pockets and fits a ton (seriously!) of stuff. It's comfortable, durable and generates a lot of compliments from fellow travelers.  

Spare Clothes: For an international flight I recommend 1 pair of PJs (for the longest flight in your itinerary). Carter's PJs are my absolute favorite. Opt for a 1-piece so there's less "pieces" of clothing in your bag. I always pack two spare outfits. My go-to outfit for Genti includes BabyGap Jersey Pants, a short or long sleeve tee, sweatshirt or zip-up, socks and shoes. If you can, ditch the bodysuits / onesies if your baby is in the wiggly diaper changing stage. Take it from me, changing a diaper at 39,000 feet is stressful. Spare the drama of holding down a kicking baby to fasten crotch snaps on a strapless changing station directly above a public toilet.  

- Tip! Pack large Ziploc bags to store any soiled clothing 

Diaper & Wipes: Do not, whatever you do, hold back on diapers. In this instance, less is NOT more. I have yet to visit an airport store with a variety of diaper sizes. Calculate the number you would normally use during your flight time - and double it. If you're flying solo, make room for it. Layovers. Missed flights. Delays. Your baby doesn't care - he's going to poop and pee to his heart's content. 

JJ Cole Diaper Clutch: This portable changing pad easily folds and takes up limited space in my diaper bag. I love how easy it is to wipe and disinfect. 

- Tip! At your gate, combine the diaper changing pad, liquids (hand sanitizer, diaper cream), wipes and a few diapers in a Ziploc bag or pouch. When it's time to change the diaper on-board, you can grab the entire kit and go.

Breast Milk / Formula: Above all, familiarize yourself with regulations on traveling with breast milk, water, etc. before your flight (click the link for TSA guidelines). If your itinerary requires security checkpoints in other countries, I encourage you to also review those guidelines. If you pack bottles, I recommend the Skip Hop Grab & Go Bottle Bag. It's insulated, wipe-able and comes with an ice pack.

Snacks: News alert! Not all airlines offer baby food. I find that soul-crushing so please be prepared. Call your airline in advance for confirmation or any questions. I always pack a handful of Earth's Best Baby Food Pouches, Annie's Homegrown Whole Wheat Bunnies, 18 Rabbits Granola Bars and fruit to keep Genti full and distracted. Flight attendants are also happy to fill a sippy cup with water as they pass the drink cart through the cabin. My go-to is the Munchkin Click Lock Bite Proof Sippy Cup. If you're traveling to Europe, you can almost guarantee the airports cafes and restaurants will have yogurt, muesli and other healthy, baby-friendly options. Grab a few items before boarding. 

Entertainment: A fully charged iPad or iPhone with baby friendly apps are a life saver. I want to hug the good people at TreeBettyDesign as their apps have kept Genti silent for 30 minutes at a time. That's a lifetime! I only pack one or two small toys, max. I usually purchased a new toy and surprised Genti in-flight which proved beneficial as he was fascinated by the newness. Don't bother with a toy that makes loud noises unless you want to incite a mutiny. 

Toiletries: The diaper bag typically houses my personal items so I don't have to schlep a secondary bag. Since I combine my toiletries with my sons, I keep it to the minimum to make room for his needs:
- Infant Tylenol
- Children's Benadryl
- Neosporin   
- Desitin
- Aquaphor 
- Total Refresh Wipes 
- Makeup basics - bareMinerals Original Foundation, Buxom Lip Polish & L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Mascara
- Colgate Travel Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Babyganics Germinator Hand Sanitizer 

Personal Items: Since I don't carry a secondary bag, a small wallet (or wristlet) houses my cash, ID and credit cards. I also pack a small pouch with miscellaneous items like ear buds, a pen and mints. 

I'd love to hear what's in YOUR diaper bag and your travel hacks. Let me know in the comments below!