Leaf and Steel

motherhood - growth - living

The Runaway Bunny Inspired Nursery

Mark my words: my next nursery will be The Runaway Bunny themed.

It’s my favorite children’s book and it’s iconic imagery is absolutely inspiring. I collected items for my dream nursery below – now all I need is the baby 🙂

To be honest, I’m not the biggest fan of heavily themed nurseries (or themed weddings, parties, etc). I love simple motifs and little details. That’s why this inspo board isn’t loaded with bunnies; it’s a subtle interpretation.

I wanted to include different textures and colors inspired by the book. It’s a little bit whimsical, a little bit grandmillenial. It would be perfect for a little boy or a little girl!

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission, at no cost to you.

Did you do a theme for your child’s nursery?

Have you read The Runaway Bunny?

Let me know below!

O.

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If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!

How to Keep Your Toddler Cool in the Summer

Summer is here and things are starting to heat up! I’ve amassed some easy ways to keep your baby or toddler cool in the summer.

Here on Long Island, the temperatures can easily reach the high 90’s in June. On top of the stifling humidity, it can get pretty dang hot!

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Some of the links in the post are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission, at no cost to you.

I’m always careful to make sure my toddler doesn’t get too hot. Some days, you just need to stay inside to protect yourself. However, we do try to get out as much as possible. There’s nothing quite like fresh air and sunshine!

Stay Inside During Peak Hours

Some days, it’s much to hot to stay out from 10-3pm, so we usually save our outdoor activities or errands ’til the end of the day.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

This is basic first aid that should be in your repertoire. Make sure to know the signs!

Water, Water, and More Water

Always keep your baby and toddler hydrated! Whether that’s with water or breastmilk or both. We also love the Pedialyte hydrating ice pops on days when it’s super hot.

Try an Ice Cream Maker or Make Your Own Ice Pops

This nostalgic ice cream maker is sure to keep your little ones entertained and cool. I still remember using one in my childhood.

These ice pop makers are perfect for frozen treats.

Did you know you can also make breast milk popsicles?

This one is another quick ice cream maker.

Use a Stroller Fan

A stroller fan is a registry must-have. It’s small enough to throw at the bottom of the stroller when you don’t need it.

This one is super cute! It is re-chargable via a USB port.

Invest in a car seat cooler.

Who ever invented these is a genius! Simply freeze it and place it in the car seat or stroller for a few minutes before letting your little one sit. If it’s really hot I give my little one frozen teethers to hold onto while the car cools down.

Get the Sprinkler Out

Running through the sprinkler is a childhood classic. It seems only kids can tolerate the freezing cold hose water. My toddler also loves playing in her kiddie pool for as long as I’ll let her!

Always Carry Ice Packs

You can use old teething rings, your own coolers ice packs, or these fun ones for kids.

They are great to use in transition from activity to activity, or just as an extra way to keep cool!

Are you looking forward to summer? What do you to do help your kids beat the heat?

How do you keep cool?

Let me know below!

O.

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Toddler Backyard Essentials for Summer 2022

Baby M (should I be calling her toddler M now?) is obsessed with ‘side. She wakes up talking about ‘side. She goes to bed talking about ‘side. She doesn’t care if it’s raining or 95 degrees out, she only wants ‘side.

This post may contain affiliate links. This means that I may make a small commission off of products that are purchased through these links, at no cost to you. You can read more about this process here.

She means outside, of course. We are so blessed to have a large, fenced in yard perfect for her to safely explore. Between her love of the outdoors and the new puppy, we are getting a lot of use out of our yard.

How Much Does it Cost to Raise a Puppy? (In the First Month)

Our collection of outside toys started with a simple baby swing and has grown to a full kid-sized compound. It’s starting to look like a Little Tikes catalog back here.

Since we are outside constantly, I thought I’d share the items that we are using!

Let’s start with the house. Baby M is always asking for “house”, which means her house of course. No parents allowed (not by choice, we literally can’t fit in the house). It took my husband almost an hour to set up, but it was well worth it. Baby M moved a bunch of her toys in there and loves opening and closing the windows and doors. The best part – no taxes and we paid off her mortgage for her!

Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse for Kids – Outdoor Playset and Indoor Playground for Toddlers with 2 Working Doors (Amazon, $129.00)

Gift Guide for the Tired Mama in Your Life

Next, let’s talk about “sly” aka The Slide. This one is a little tall for Baby M, so she isn’t keen on going down completely independently yet (she’s 19 months as I write this). She does, however, enjoy pushing her stuffed animals down and trying to walk up it, which is a wonderful gross motor exercise. It folds up for easy storage!

Little Tikes First Slide Toddler Slide, Easy Set Up Playset for Indoor Outdoor Backyard, Easy to Store, Safe Toy for Toddler, Slip And Slide For Kids (Amazon, $29.99)

I know what you’re thinking – a brand new swimming pool? In this economy? You heard right folks; my kid has her very own pool.  The water might run a tad cold if her butler (me) forgets to put it out in the sun to heat up in the morning, but it’s usually pretty refreshing.

The best part is it doubles as a dog swimming pool.

We got ours at Target last year – I can’t find it online anymore, but here’s a beautiful, classy second option!

FUNBOY Giant Inflatable Luxury Italian Tile Kiddie Pool, Year-Round Fun for Ball Pits, Swimming Pools, a Summer Pool Party and the Beach (Amazon, $54.40)

To complete the aquatic theme we have a splash pad, which also features your signature ice-cold water that only children can tolerate. This one has little sea creatures that float around and your spigot can control the height of the fountains.

Winique Splash Pad, Sprinkler for Kids, Wading Pool for Toddlers, 68″ Inflatable Outdoor Summer Toys for Babies (Amazon, $16.00)

Not to brag, but my not-even-two-year-old has a horse. A real life, plastic rocking horse. This one is from Little Tikes and is a classic summer yard staple. We make sure to feed it grass every morning.

Little Tikes Rocking Horse Magenta (Amazon, $29.92)

To add to the zoo we have a few cows that came with this amazing water table. This one is so cute since we love all things farm over here! Our only complaint is the dog won’t stop drinking out of it.

Theo Klein 3948 John Deere Farm Sand Play Table, Water Play Table I with Farm Animals and Vehicles I Water and Sand Basins I (Amazon, $120.21)

How does Baby M manage all her land and animals? With her tractor, of course! She got this one for her birthday and it’s been a wonderful addition to her outside set up.

John Deere Ride On Toys Sit ‘N Scoot Activity Tractor for Kids Aged 18 Months to 3 Years, Green (Amazon, $39.94)

Here we have the swing that started it all! We have the blue.

Little Tikes 2-in-1 Snug ‘n Secure Swing (Amazon, $26.99)

I wanted to include some of our other outdoor summer necessities below!

Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent Pump Spray, DEET-free Mosquito Repellent, 4oz (Amazon, $4.68)

RuffleButtsÂŽ Baby/Toddler Girls Baby/Toddler Sun Hat with UPF 50+ Sun Protection and Floppy Wide Brim (Amazon, $19.99)

Badger SPF 40 Baby Sunscreen Cream – Reef-Friendly Broad-Spectrum Water-Resistant Baby Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide – Chamomile and Calendula, 2.9 oz (Amazon, $13.76)

Pampers Splashers Swim Diapers Disposable Swim Pants, 11 Count (Amazon, $11.99)

Big Bubble Bottle 12 Pack – 4oz Blow Bubbles Solution Novelty Summer Toy – Activity Party Favor Assorted Colors Set (Amazon, $14.99)

We have this lawn mower, but it looks like it’s sold out everywhere – here is another option that makes bubbles!

Sunny Days Entertainment Bubble-N-Go Deluxe Toy Bubble Lawn Mower with 4 oz Bubble Solution | No Batteries Required | Amazon Exclusive – Maxx Bubbles – (Amazon, $23.99)

Little Tikes Easy Store Picnic Table with Umbrella, Multi Color (Amazon, $89.99)

Lastly, I always stick our JBL Flip 5 portable speaker in our summer basket. It’s small and lightweight but powerful! It just hooks up to bluetooth on my phone.

JBL Flip 5 Waterproof Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker Bundle with divvi! Protective Hardshell Case – Blue (Amazon, $129.95)

So, those are our favorite summer outdoor items for 2022!

What are your backyard summer essentials for your child?

Do you have any of these things?

Let me know below!

O.

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If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!

The Best Books About Dads (for Father’s Day 2022)

Today I’m sharing the best dad books for Father’s Day 2022! These books make excellent gifts for dads for holidays or even gifts for new dads!

My daughter and husband love to read together – I know I’ll be adding some of these titles to our collection this year.

This post contains affiliate links. This means that I may make a small commission off of products that are purchased through these links, at no cost to you. You can read more about this process here.

I don’t know about you, but we have books strewn all over our house. They’re everywhere. There are books for the bathtub, books for the stroller, books for grandparents’ houses and books for the car….

“Can you read your book while you wait” is an everyday phrase in our house. My daughter has been a voracious reader since the beginning. I love how much she loves to read! I credit our dedication to reading every day since birth (okay, not every day, I’m human).

In my experience, reading and parenting go hand in hand!

There’s nothing sweeter than having my daughter crawl into my lap with her favorite book. As much as I love our snuggles during Puffin Rock or Elmo, reading a great children’s book with her is a joy like no other.

Looking for a gift for mom too? Check out our Gift Guide for the Tired Mama in Your Life!

When is Father’s Day this year?

Father’s Day is on Sunday, June 19th, 2022. Father’s Day is held on the third Sunday in June in the United States.

I have super special celebratory gifts planned. Since my daughter is young, she’ll probably give her dad a homemade card. But, I’m adding on one of these books so they can read it together!

When should I start reading to my baby?

As soon as possible! Even if it’s a quick little board book in the beginning, get into the habit of reading to your baby immediately. I remember adding it onto my list of things to do when I had a newborn.

Make it a point to read with your child every single day.

See this article from Parents for more information: “The Benefits of Reading to Your Newborn” (click here for reference):

Studies have also shown that children who were read to as newborns have a larger vocabulary, as well as more advanced mathematical skills, than other kids their age. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, for example, found that kids who are read to every day are exposed to around 78,000 words each year—over five years, that adds up to 1.4 million words heard during story time.

There’s also a direct link between how many words a baby hears each day and her language skills. One study found that babies whose parents spoke to them a lot scored higher on standard tests when they reached age 3 than children whose parents weren’t as verbal.

Parents, “The Benefits of Reading to Your Newborn”

Lessons from Stay-at-Home Moms

How do I read to my baby more?

I always say that the easiest way to read more books to your little one is to tack it onto an already formed routine. Reading before bedtime, around a mealtime, or after a nap are some of the best times to read with your baby.

Baby M loves to read by herself when I’m making her meals or in the car! By having lots of books in lots of places, it’s easy to keep your little one reading.

Baby Books to Celebrate Moms Everywhere

My Dad is Amazing by Sabrina Moyle

Why a Daughter Needs a Dad by Gregory E. Lang

Why a Son Needs a Dad by Gregory E. Lang

Made for Me by Zack Bush

My Dad Loves Me! by Marianne Richmond

I Love Dad with The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Just Me and My Dad by Mercer Mayer

I Love You, Daddy by Jillian Harker

We Love Our Dad! by Jan Bernstain

Because of You, Dad by Kobi Yamada

Dad by My Side by Soosh

When Dads Don’t Grow Up by Marjorie Blain Parker

Your Baby’s First Word Will Be DADA by Jimmy Fallon

You Made Me a Dad by Laurenne Sala

Spot Loves His Daddy by Eric Hill

Because I’m Your Dad by Ahmet Zappa

So, there are some of the best books to help your little one celebrate Father’s Day in 2022!

Spot Loves His Daddy and My Dad is Amazing are my favorites!

Are you familiar with any of the dad books above?

Let me know below!

O.

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If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!

30 Day Motherhood Blogging Challenge

Today I’m sharing 30 writing prompts for mom blogs! If you’re feeling stuck and in need of inspiration when you sit down to write, make sure you check out the ideas below!

Willpower and Motivation

Have you ever heard the idea that “willpower is a finite resource”? If you haven’t, then listen up. 

You will run out of willpower. 

You will not feel motivated every day. 

You will procrastinate because it feels good in the moment.

If you’ve ever tried to do anything consistently (work out, get up early, WRITE), then you know what I’m talking about.

See this quote from Verywell:

Willpower is a limited resource.The idea behind this theory is that willpower is like a muscle in that it can be both strengthened and fatigued. For example, if you exhaust yourself doing sprints, you will be less able to perform other physical tasks.

Kendra Cherry, Verywell, “What is Ego Depletion?”

Habits

So, it’s not just you.

It can be frustrating to have a goal but be unable to reach it due to a lack of willpower or energy.

The good news is there’s a way to hack it.

The answer lies in habits.

Creating small, daily habits will improve your blog. There’s no doubt that writing every day will add more content to your site. Creating a number of Pins for Pinterest or connecting with a few other bloggers on Instagram will bring in more traffic.

There’s no better way to build up your blog than to practice consistency.

In 2021, I found myself in a place with lots of time to blog and not a lot of direction. In the beginning of the year I was sporadically posting and I didn’t feel like I was getting anything out of it.

How I Get Over Writer’s Block

I created some new habits.

I started getting up early so that I could write, uninterrupted.

I learned how to shut out distractions and how to do writing sprints.

I stopped waiting for inspiration to hit.

I stopped waiting for the motivation to come.

I leaned into my habits and the results that I got were invaluable. Not only did I add dozens of articles to my site, but I got into a writing rhythm. Writing every single day made me a better writer.

I got better at transferring my thoughts and formatting my articles.

Having those habits made me more efficient and creative.

Now, writing and working on my blog is as natural as making my bed or feeding the cat.

Here’s my favorite way to build new habits. The Harvard Business Review refers to it as “Piggybacking on a daily task”.

The benefit of micro habits is that you should be able to perform it with minimal effort every day. It’s important to execute on a new ritual daily so it becomes second nature, and if it’s small enough, you won’t be as tempted to defer your task from one day to the next. However, no matter the size of the task, it’s easy to get distracted, make excuses, or forget. Perform your new action at the same time as (or right before) an action you do without thinking. Need to read a paragraph each night? You can do that while brushing your teeth. Meditating for 30 seconds each day? Check that off your list while waiting for your coffee to brew.

Sabrina Nawaz, Harvard Business Review, “To Achieve Big Goals, Start with Small Habits”

Blogging Challenges

A blogging challenge is an excellent way to create a writing rhythm.

In my experience, writing every day is what works best for me. Whether it’s an hour or just ten minutes, writing everyday enforces that habit.

Blogtober was my first writing challenge. To this day, October 2021 serves as my statistical inspiration for blogging. I added 31 new posts and I saw my traffic almost double. I loved having a challenge to keep me consistent, with a finish line in sight.

5 Blogging Lessons I Learned in 2021

You can choose an online blogging challenge or create your own! I love using prompts when I’m feeling “stuck” or uninspired.

I compiled 30 writing prompts for motherhood/early childhood blogs. If writing a whole post every day is too much right now, try keeping the posts short or spread them out over two months.

Another way to do this challenge is to set a word count objective and to tailor each post to meet that goal.

You can move these around or alter them to fit your blog’s niche.

These prompts are also excellent for Instagram pages, if you aren’t a fan of long form content.

30 Day Motherhood Blogging Challenge

  1. About Me
  2. What’s in My Diaper Bag
  3. My Thoughts on…(sleep training/cloth diapering/BLW, etc)
  4. 10 Things I Can’t Live Without
  5. Favorite Outdoor Family Activities
  6. Summer Bucket List
  7. 10 Things About Me
  8. How I Practice Self Care as a New Mom
  9. My Baby’s Birth Story
  10. The Best Baby Books
  11. My Baby’s Favorite Toys
  12. Baby Clothes We Can’t Live Without
  13. How to Stay Energized as a New Mom
  14. My Postpartum Experience
  15. How My Relationships Changed After Kids
  16. A Letter to My Baby
  17. My Thoughts on Screen Time
  18. Overrated Baby Advice
  19. How to Road Trip with a Baby
  20. What I Wish I Knew Before Having Kids
  21. What’s in My Labor & Delivery Bag
  22. How to Keep Your Marriage Strong After Kids
  23. Day in the Life of a SAHM or Working Mom
  24. 10 Baby Items You Didn’t End Up Using
  25. My Top Parenting Hacks
  26. 5 Facts About Me
  27. How to Find the Time to Blog
  28. DIY Baby Toys
  29. Apps that Help Me Parent
  30. Favorite Baby/Toddler Meals

Have you ever done a blogging challenge? Have you written about any of the topics on this list?

Let me know below!

O.

More from Leaf and Steel:

If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!

Why You Need to Start Accepting Guest Posts

Do you accept guest posts on your blog? If not, you seriously might want to start.

Guest posting is a tried-and-true way to elevate your blog. I started accepting guest posts in 2022 and I can’t believe that I waited this long to try it! I honestly didn’t even think of it as an option for my style of blog. I also didn’t realize how many people out there would want to post on my blog!

Keep reading to see why you need to start including guest posts today.

What is a guest post?

A guest post is exactly what it sounds like – it’s a post on your blog written by a “guest”, typically another blogger. It’s different from an article written by a freelancer or ghost writer because it usually serves as a mutual promotion for both parties.

How do I find writers to guest post on my blog?

The simplest way to find people to guest post on your blog is to ask your readers! 

Ask them in a blog post or on social media! I was surprised when I posted a call for writers on my Instagram (with a very meager following). There were so many people wanting to write for my blog in exchange for promotion or just to exercise their freelance skills.

Be sure to include a Guest Post FAQ page on your blog with details on what kind of posts you’re looking for.

Here are some examples of what you might want to include in a guest post FAQ:

  • Suggested word count
  • Suggested topics
  • Banned topics
  • Banned language or themes
  • Where the post will be promoted
  • If you charge or pay for guest posts

Some blogs charge to feature guest posts. This is fine if you’re willing to provide stats to prove that the price is worth it.

It’s important that you aren’t just slapping up any old post from any old writer.

I ALWAYS check out the writer’s blog, social media, and I’m not afraid to give them a quick Google to make sure nothing controversial shows up. It’s my due diligence as a blog owner to make sure that the content I’m putting out is responsible, inclusive, and safe.

A social media search and hashtag scan can tell you a lot about someone’s beliefs. Make sure you know who’s writing for you and their reputation.

How do I guest post on a blog in 2022?

Start with your favorite blogs that are in line with your niche! Check to see if they have guest posting information on their contact or about page. If not, there is no harm in asking! Sending a friendly email with a request to send over your work might lead somewhere.

You can also simply do a Google search for guest posting opportunities in your selected niche. I would check out a few of the site’s articles to make sure that it’s somewhere you would be proud to be associated with.

How often should I feature guest posts?

You get to set the rules here.

It also largely depends on how often you post.

Here are some guest post scheduling ideas:
  • A guest post the first/last week of the month
  • A guest post every Monday
  • Guest posts for one whole week or one whole month
  • Guest posts with different perspectives on the same topic
  • Guest post themes (like recipes, book reviews, etc.)

Experiment and find what works for you!

Why you need to start accepting guest posts today:

The benefits of guest posts are endless, but here are some of my favorites:

You’ll make new friends

I have connected with so many interesting and insightful women through guest posting. It’s allowed me to “meet” people from different cultures and at so many different stages of life.

You get a writing “break”

Unless this is your full time job, you probably have other things you need to be doing during the day.

I know I have many days where I don’t even open my laptop, let alone write. That’s where guest posting can be helpful. I can post those articles on the days or weeks where I know I won’t be able to put my own work up.

This helps me stay consistent with my posting schedule and keeps my readers engaged.

If you also have annual word count goals or a posting schedule, this can be really helpful.

Increased traffic

Well written guest posts drive traffic, plain and simple.

Think of it like gaining a temporary second audience. Your post will (hopefully) be shared on different social media accounts or reposted to the guest posters blog. This will lead to an increased amount of eyes on your posts- and some of those readers might stick around for more.

You’ll support other bloggers

Guest posting is an excellent way to support other long form content creators. Both sites get extra sets of eyes on their posts and it’s always good to give a little love to other bloggers!

You might learn something new

It’s true! You might learn a new skill, recipe, or way of thinking. This is one of my favorite reasons to feature guest posts.

This is why guest posting is so great – you can get an expert to write on a topic that you do not fully understand or have the desire to research.

Some of Leaf and Steel’s most recent guest posts:

Keeping the Focus on You

Give the Gift of Reading

How to Be a More Self-Confident Mother and Enhance Your Life

Do you currently accept guest posts? Have you ever guest posted on another site?

Would you be interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel?

Let me know below!
O.

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May in Review

Today I’m sharing the not-so-great and the good from May.

May was sweet and slow. I spent so much time outside with my family! Really living the American dream over here.

I feel like I’m slowly coming out of survival mode that started when we got our Vizsla puppy in March.

Here are some highlights from May!

The Not-Great

Hello anxiety, my old friend. It’s baaaackkkk. Due to recent events in the news, I feel like my anxiety is in full swing. Doing all the things to get in back in check.

Didn’t write as much as I wanted. The reason why I didn’t write as much is because I’m out of my writing rhythm and I had so many guest posts. I need to take my own direction and get rid of my writer’s block!

Can’t seem to wake up before 7a.m. I don’t know why! Every night I set my alarm for 6, and every morning I turn them off and sleep until my kid wakes me up. I really, really want to get back to where I was B.B. (Before Bodhi), getting up at 6 and writing before everyone else woke up. Maybe this month…

My puppy still bites. And he bites hard. Only in the backyard. Only me. I keep telling him I’m getting him a one way ticket back to Pittsburgh.

Life with My 8-Week-Old Vizsla Puppy

The Good

My puppy turned a corner. Okay, so he’s not all bad. He still bites and he’s still so much work, but I think I’ll keep him. For the past 2.5 months I’ve had to keep my puppy separated from my toddler, which has been pretty taxing on everyone. I had been putting her in a pen in our kitchen when the pup needed to be out and would count down the minutes until his nap time. 

Towards the end of May he finally calmed down enough to be around the toddler without a leash. I have to say, they are both doing an amazing job respecting each other’s boundaries! I’m now getting that puppy-baby cuteness I was looking for!

Bedtime yoga is a game changer. Most nights, I did a ten minute yoga routine in my bedroom in the dark with just a candle. Since I spend all day contorting my body into weird positions for the sake of SAHM life, stretching at the end of the day has given me more restful sleep. I’m not a huge routine person, but I can see the allure.

Getting rid of news. My post here has more information. I’m a big believer that “you are what you eat”, and after taking an inventory of what I’ve been consuming, I decided to ditch the news. I can still stay current on what’s happening in my area and a general idea of the state of the world, but I gave up subscriptions to news publications that I was compulsively checking, as well as my personal Instagram. (I’m still active on my Leaf and Steel Instagram).

Guest posts galore. Want to guest post? I’d love to have you. Through WordPress and Instagram I’ve met so many lovely souls who have featured their articles on my site! Check out the guest post FAQ here.

How was your May?

Did you do anything fun or learn anything new?

Let me know below!

O.

More from Leaf and Steel:

Give the Gift of Reading

Today’s post is a guest post by Elaine of Following Augustine! She is sharing the benefits and joys of reading with little ones.

Be sure to check out Elaine’s site at edebock.wordpress.com!

If you would like to guest post on Leaf and Steel please visit our Guest Post page to view requirements and ideas!

Let’s get into it…

One of the most precious gifts that a parent or grandparent can give a child is the gift of reading. Not necessarily teaching them to read, but reading to and with them. One of my favorite memories from my years of teaching elementary school is that of reading to my students every day. It always saddened me to know that for some children, that was the only time they were ever read to.

It’s never too early to start reading to your baby. While he or she might seem too young to understand, baby will enjoy being close to you and listening to the sound of your voice and will quickly learn to associate this feeling of comfort with books and reading. 

Reading to your little one is also a great way to introduce concepts such as numbers, letters, colors, and shapes in a fun way. Instead of simply reading the words, talk about the illustrations and as baby gets older, begin asking questions. “Where’s the puppy?” “What color is the car?” “How many balloons?” Immersing your child in language helps develop listening skills and memory and begins to build a rich known vocabulary even before they start to talk. 

At some point, your toddler or preschooler might choose a favorite story that they want to hear over and over again. This might seem a bit mind numbing and you may even be tempted to hide that book away in a deep, dark closet, but don’t do it! According to children’s author and illustrator, Rosemary Wells, “All really good picture books are written to be read five hundred times!” By all means, encourage your child to listen to other stories, but keep on reading that favorite one too. What you read isn’t as important as the fact that you do.

Picture books often repeat key words or phrases over and over again. Even before your child learns to read, they will probably begin to recognize these patterns in familiar stories.

When you’re reading aloud and come to such a word or phrase, pause to see if your child will “read” it themself. As they begin to participate in this way, the excitement of reading grows. 

Once your child learns to read on their own, have them read to you or introduce paired reading where you take turns, but don’t stop reading to them. As they get older, you can introduce chapter books, perhaps reading one chapter each day.

This is also a good time to introduce them to a variety of different kinds of stories. You might even be able to share a favorite book from your own childhood.  

Make reading with your child part of your daily routine, perhaps before nap time or bedtime. This gives you and your child an opportunity to cuddle and connect and its calming effect might also help your little one fall asleep more easily.

Books are costly, but there are inexpensive ways to surround your child with them. Second-hand stores and garage sales are often good sources of books at very reasonable prices. And then there’s the library, a never-ending source of books for all ages. There, your child can have the excitement of choosing for themselves from a vast array of books.

Many libraries also have story time for babies and young children. While you’re there, you might want to choose a book for yourself too. Modeling reading is a great way to encourage your child’s interest in books. 

Reading is the key to lifelong learning. It has the power to take your child to faraway places and opens their mind to a whole world of possibilities. If you can instill a love of reading at an early age, you will have given your child a priceless gift that lasts a lifetime.

Elaine is a retired elementary and junior high school teacher, the mother of three grown children, and grandmother of eight. She has been writing the blog, Following Augustine, for over fourteen years. 

Thank you, Elaine, for your post!

Let us know your thoughts below!

O.

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Turning Off the TV

Some days, it’s okay to just turn off the TV.

It’s okay to put yourself in a little bubble. Skip dinner. Bake chocolate chip cookies. Eat the cookies for dinner.

I pulled up the news last night on my phone and instantly exited the page. I texted my husband something like, “I’m not looking, don’t tell me anything”.

I swiftly deleted all social media off my phone. I called my closest friend and cried. Cried in the shower. Cried about something happening to my child. I realized that she was sound asleep in her crib on the other side of the wall.

The disconnect between the way that I feel and my reality feels vast on days like yesterday. There’s so much terror. Such an ugly word. A word reserved for such extreme moments. Like yesterday.

I read something a long time ago that went along the lines of “our brains weren’t meant to process suffering on such a large scale”. I don’t know the quote. If you know the quote, let me know.

Basically, our brains aren’t designed for this. I wasn’t designed for this.

I used to think that being in on all the news meant that you were intelligent and informed and compassionate, and that’s probably true.

I used to feel like I knew everything about everything. I checked the news compulsively and I didn’t check my own suffering while ogling others’. Ladies and gentlemen, I am bowing out.

I don’t know any details. I don’t want to know. It’s not a hurricane warning – there’s nothing I need to know that’s going to change anything.

I have hope for a different future. Every generation has it’s stuff. I use statistics to quiet my anxiety and I hug my baby girl a little bit tighter, like every other mother in America.

I hope you do a gut check, and know that sometimes it’s okay to turn off the TV and put down your phone and take care of yourself during times like these.

There’s so much good in the world, still.

You find what you look for.

O.

Guest Post: Meals in 15 Minutes or Less

Today’s post is a guest post by Sheenia Jackson! She is sharing some quick and easy meals in 15 minutes of less!

Sheenia previously wrote a post on Moms in May, you can check it out here.

Be sure to visit her site and Instagram!

If you would like to guest post on Leaf and Steel please visit our Guest Post page to view requirements and ideas!

Let’s get into it…

I have to say the kitchen is my happy place! But as a busy mom with much to juggle, my favorite meals are those that are simple, fast, and delicious.

Usually, my ultimate cooking goal is to get a healthy meal on the table, while adding a few minutes back into my day. To me, that’s a Win-Win!

Summer is quickly approaching, which means moms will be busy planning family activities and feeding big appetites. In this article, I will be sharing three of my favorite summer recipes that are kind to your budget, ready within minutes, and sure to please your family any day of the week!

From Sunday dinners, to lazy weeknight meals, to game-day appetizers… these dishes include simple ingredients and are perfect for many occasions!

Tasty Shrimp Tacos

Fresh and delicious! This recipe features crisp veggies, a tasty homemade sauce, and fresh squeezed limes. What’s not to love?

Since the only thing we’re cooking is the shrimp, dinner will be served in no time, and you’ll soon be resting your feet!

What You’ll Need…

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb. shrimp    
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Your favorite seasoning

For the Sauce:

  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 ½  tablespoons lime juice
  • 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Sriracha sauce

Ideas for Toppings: white corn tortillas, shredded purple cabbage, sliced red onions, grated Cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, fresh squeezed limes, sliced avocado

Let’s Make It!

  • Start by rinsing your shrimp and patting it dry with paper towels. Place the shrimp in a large bowl and add your favorite seasonings. I personally enjoy Italian Seasoning, Smoked Paprika, and Kinder’s all-purpose seasoning blend. Follow your taste buds and make it your own!
  • Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and sautĂŠ the shrimp until cooked through (1-2 minutes per side). Set the shrimp aside…
  • Toast the tortillas in a skillet or on a hot griddle. Just a couple seconds will do!
  • Build your tacos by arranging your desired toppings and shrimp over each tortilla.
  • In a small bowl, whisk the sauce ingredients and serve over tacos.

Easy Peasy, right?!

I usually opt for fresh shrimp in this recipe, but you can use frozen if you prefer. Just be sure to thaw before cooking.

Shrimp tacos aren’t the same without corn tortillas in my opinion, but feel free to use flour tortillas if you’d like.

Build-Your-Own taco night is a delicious theme to add to your summer meal planning.

If you haven’t already, give Shrimp Tacos a try!

Sheet Pan Nachos

Loaded nachos. Simple ingredients. Kid-friendly. What more can I say?

What You’ll Need…

  • 1 lb. ground beef or turkey
  • Choice of seasoning mix
  • 12 oz. bag tortilla chips
  • 14 oz. canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned will do)
  • Shredded Mexican cheese

Ideas for Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded romaine lettuce, sliced red onions, fresh squeezed limes, sour cream, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, diced jalapenos

Let’s Make It!

  • Preheat your oven to 400F.  Cover a large baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil.
  • Season your meat with your favorite spices and cook in a skillet until browned, 5-10 minutes tops! Then drain excess fat.
  • Place tortilla chips in a single layer onto the baking sheet. Top tortillas with cooked meat, pinto beans, corn and your desired amount of shredded cheese.
  • Place into the oven and bake for 5 minutes.
  • Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!

For the seasoning mix, I like to use a combination of several spices. Some of my favorites include cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and honestly… whatever I have on hand!

You may also use a 1 ounce packet of store-bought taco seasoning mix if you prefer to go that route. You really can’t go wrong with a simple meal like this. Be creative, be flexible, and enjoy!

Sloppy Joe Sliders

Who doesn’t love an old childhood favorite every once in a while?

I love serving this meal because it brings back precious memories. But I do have to say, this version of “Sloppy Joes” is much tastier than the one I remember growing up.

In this recipe, we’re trading in the canned sauce for a sweet and zesty homemade sauce that takes little time to cook up!

Three home-made Sloppy Joe slider sandwiches on a black serving tray.

What You’ll Need…

For the Beef:

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb. ground beef

For the Sauce:

  • 8 oz. canned tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Ideas for Toppings: slider buns, sliced pickles, shredded lettuce

Let’s Make It!

  • Add ground beef and minced garlic to a skillet, then cook until browned, 5-10 minutes. Drain grease from meat.
  • Pour the sauce ingredients over the cooked meat and stir.
  • Cover with a lid and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve on slider buns and enjoy with your favorite toppings!

If you get extremely lucky and have more time to spare, I highly recommend letting the meat sauce simmer just a tad bit longer. An extra 10 minutes will allow your sauce to reach peak flavor!

If you can’t spare the extra minutes, no worries!

Pair your sliders with potato chips or fresh fruit, and embrace the nostalgia!

Summing It All Up!

When it comes to quick and delicious meals, the options are endless.

The point of this article is to prompt you to think about fun and creative dinners to serve your family, without sacrificing TASTE, HEALTH, or TIME.

When using canned items in a recipe, try to aim for “organic” or “no sodium added” labels.

Remember, cooking well doesn’t mean cooking fancy… A few simple ingredients go a long way!

Homemade meals are the best, especially when they’re made EASY and with love.

Happy Cooking!

I’m Sheenia Denae, a SAHM who loves to write, cook, and create simple recipes.

You can find me on Instagram @made_to_be_marvelous or check out my website at sheeniadenae.wixsite.com/iwrite/

I’m always happy to share my thoughts, dishes, and other helpful tips with fellow mommas.

Let’s connect!

Thank you Sheenia for guest posting!

What did you think of the post?

Let us know below!

O.

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