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7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag for the Voyager in you… #Review and #Giveaway Canada/USA

July 18, 2013 By Deb B. 74 Comments

Meet the Voyage bag by none other than, 7 A.M. Enfant.

… because every mama of a mini-fashionista deserves an equally fashionable bag.

7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag

I try to live by that mantra, ignoring my immediate instincts to grab the first big bag I see, which will enclose the following must-have items:

Diapers (for the expected blowouts)

Extra clothes (for the surprising blowouts)

Bottles/sippy cups

Burp and nursing pads

Pacifiers

Snacks

Books for little mama

Books for big mama

Keys

Pretend Keys

Camera (can’t leave home without it)

Pretend Camera (sheesh, someone kind of idolizes me!)

Extra shoes

Sun hat

Extra hair accessories in case the wimpy ones that little mama currently sports, break mid-day

Munchkin’s Sunglasses (yes, I said sunglasses.  And yes, they are necessary)

… and pretty much EVERYTHING else that a mommy can fit into a bag.

Diaper bag?  Hardly.  It’s now officially become the can’t-live-without-carry-all.  If I lose said carry all for even a millisecond, I pretty much lose my mind.

So, back to that fashionable bag…  Yes – if you’re going to bring the entire universe in one bag – you might as well look cute while you’re at it.  This is one of the many lessons I am teaching LD, in the following photo op.

LD Babystylista 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag

Okay – so I was actually just bribing her into keep her hat on… yes – the one that is supposed to fit in this bag.  And do you think it did?

Voyage Bag Interior

Why yes… it certainly did.  How could it not?  With 7 A.M. Enfant‘s signature zipper Front Door System, organized compartments, ample pockets both in the interior and exterior, there was nothing BUT room!

Mama was most pleased with the easy-access pockets for the cell phone  (or emergency boogie wipes, whichever is more of a priority that day).

Voyage Bag Interior Pockets

The grab handles allow for a quick getaway, something all moms appreciate – especially when threatened with a spontaneous toddler meltdown or at the onset of a high speed toddler chase across the park.

7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag

In spite of a deep main compartment – which could potentially lead to overstuffing – there are a plethora of pockets – fabulous mesh pockets, a personal pocket, all relatively see-through, so I know where everything is located at first glance.  It comes with a matching cushioned changing pad (bonus!), a matching case for diapers, wipes, and creams, and a coordinating insulated zippered case for water and juice bottles – for both baby and me. (yes – mama needs to quench up too!)

Voyage Bag Matching Bags

Loved the lightweight and soft materials which were ridiculously easy to clean, yet the outer shell and the lining are both water repellent. That certainly helps in preventing me from crying over spilled milk (or a rainy day).

When we brought the Voyage Bag and the matching neon WarMMuffs on a test run, we proudly attached it to the stroller handlebars.  It slid on like nutella on toast.  (We certainly got LD‘s attention… “Did somebody say, Nutella?” Whoops!):

7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag and WarMMuffs

Our first run with the Voyage Bag was right on the cusp of Spring, as the season was peeking into the Summer, so even Sunny California couldn’t keep us warm.  We welcomed the chilly ocean breeze and braced ourselves with the cozy WarMMuffs that attached to the handles. Meanwhile, LD was nice and snug in her Pookie Poncho, which she has had a love affair with since March, when the two were first introduced. Don’t we look cozy?

Babystylista 7 A.M. Enfant Pookie Poncho WarMMuffs Voyage Bag

Here’s a close up of a very satisfied (and snuggly) Pookie Poncho customer. Of course, this time, she insisted on donning her matching pink neon shades to coordinate flawlessly with mama’s new Voyage bag and WarMMuffs.

LD Babystylista 7 A.M. Enfant Pookie Poncho

Two chubby thumbs up indeed!

Or should I say two cozy WarMMuffs up!?

7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag and WarMMuffs

In my previous review of these WarMMuffs – one selling point for me was the flexibility of easily removing my hands to tend to LD‘s needs while these heaven-sent mittens are secured to the stroller.  Kind of brilliant if you ask me.

But all this talk of muffs and all that is cozy, is giving me the chills – so let’s take this moment to focus on how this same bag fares on a similar beach, just a season later.  Listen up, All you single ladies:  This is a not just your everyday diaper bag.  It can be your gym bag, beach bag, and even your carry-on bag for travel – do I hear, Bon Voyage?

Here’s the Voyage Bag in action. I had the privilege of meeting the designer in NY during the ENK Children’s Club Trade Show. Who knows about all the fabulous things the everso stylish 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag has to offer, than the creator herself?:

As you can see – since receiving one for myself, it has never left my side:

Babystylista 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag

Babystylista 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag

Babystylista 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag

Except of course, for the rare moments, I had a little one-on-one serious chat with Little Mama.

LD Babystylista 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag

Mainly, to do a sesh of ring-around-the-rosie:

Babystylista 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag

Or sharing a moment of mutual admiration for mama’s brand new, super cool bag:

Babystylista 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag

But LD refused to let another moment pass without giving the mini-version a test drive of her own.  Who would have thought, the zippered pouch could also become a makeshift purse for little one?

LD 7am Enfant Makeshift Purse

She is merely a mini-reflection of me, afterall.  Though, I have a sneaking suspicion she has plans to infiltrate the Large Voyage Bag for her own purposes.

Well – at least I know she’s got good taste! Sneaky monkey…

LD Babystylista 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag

We certainly enjoyed our run with the 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag, and as I write this, I am digging into the pockets for a snack for myself.  But what good is sharing with you MY experiences with this fresh n’ fabulous mommy must-have, if I can’t share the goodness with all of you!?!

*****FREE GIVEAWAY*****

As a gift to a lucky winner out there, our friends at 7 A.M.® Enfant is offering a fabulous giveaway!  To enter for the chance to win this much sought after 7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag and coordinating WarMMuffs, valued at $126.50, simply fill out the form below!  For further contest rules, refer to the Terms and Conditions within the Rafflecopter.

Contest closes August 1st, 2013 – at 11:59PM! The winner will be revealed August 2nd, 2013! If you have an Instagram account, check us out at @babystylista for more ways to enter (Bonus points!)

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~~~~~~~~~~~ CONTEST CLOSED!  THANKS FOR PARTICIPATING! ~~~~~

CONGRATULATIONS TO MELISSA M. – WINNER OF THE 7 A.M. VOYAGE BAG AND WARMMUFFS! GREAT JOB! 

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED!! MORE TO COME!!!

Stylishly yours,

db

“Like” us on Facebook

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“Pin” us on Pinterest

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“Follow” us on Instagram @babystylista

P.S.  A big STYLIN’ thank you to BRIAN BOBILA for the fab fotos! Uncky Brian Rocks!!!

DISCLOSURE:  BABYSTYLISTA WAS PROVIDED WITH THIS PRODUCT FOR REVIEW.  ALL OPINIONS ARE OUR OWN.

 

 

Filed Under: threads for tots Tagged With: 7 AM Enfant, Baby, Bag, Beach, beach bag, children, Children's Club, contest, Diaper, ENK, fashion, fashionista, free, giveaway, gym, kids, kids fashion week, mom, muff, Neon, new york, NY, NYC, pookie poncho, sport, style, stylist, Voyage, WarMMuffs

About Deb B.

Deb Balino is the voice behind Sass & Smalls, host of the newly launched Podcast - Sass & Small Talk, and a mom of two - an artistic and quirky 11-year-old, and an outspoken, homewrecking, retro music loving, 4-year-old. A décor and style enthusiast, as well as a home systems hack creator, with a mildly concerning obsession of all things "bin-worthy", Deb enjoys sharing products, experiences, progressive ideas, and simple shifts in mindset that has helped her family navigate the beautiful chaos of parenting. Deb is also a homeschool teacher, partially by choice, partially pandemic-inspired, while advocating and caring for her parents as an active member of the Sandwich Generation. With vulnerability, and a dash of humour - she shares the reality of her world, all while keeping things as sassy as they once were before the drool, meltdowns, and potty mishaps entered the picture.

Her creative ideas, lengthy storytelling, and everyday musings have been featured on Huffington Post, Yahoo Style, BBC News, and YMC.CA

Comments

  1. Monica says

    July 18, 2013 at 12:21 pm

    I am looking for the perfect baby gift and either of these would certainly fit the bill!!
    Monica recently posted…Shelf Safe Milk ~ Wholesome Goodness. Anytime, Anywhere {#milkunleashed}My Profile
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 18, 2013 at 5:14 pm

      7 A.M. products would be a hit as a baby gift! It’s pretty unique too!
      babystylista recently posted…7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag for the Voyager in you… #Review and #Giveaway Canada/USAMy Profile
      Reply
  2. Kelly Connor says

    July 18, 2013 at 1:10 pm

    Oh my gosh you girls are so cute! This bag definitely looks like a must-have!
    Reply
  3. ourfamilyworld says

    July 18, 2013 at 2:30 pm

    Wow this is pretty stylish
    ourfamilyworld recently posted…Blue Mountain: A Great Year-Round Family Vacation Destination #BlueMtnSummerMy Profile
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 18, 2013 at 5:14 pm

      We wouldn’t have it any other way. Us mama’s need to treat ourselves too once in awhile!
      babystylista recently posted…#Wordless Wednesday: Taking a Moment…My Profile
      Reply
  4. Kat at Mommy Kat and Kids says

    July 18, 2013 at 4:13 pm

    Love 7 A.M. Enfant products!
    Kat at Mommy Kat and Kids recently posted…Ford’s New Electrified Vehicles Give Canadians the Power of ChoiceMy Profile
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 18, 2013 at 5:15 pm

      I’m so glad you’re a fan too! Aren’t they awesome?
      babystylista recently posted…#Wordless Wednesday: Taking a Moment…My Profile
      Reply
  5. Soberjulie says

    July 18, 2013 at 5:08 pm

    wow that’s some seriously stylish gear I wish I’d had! Have liked the first 2 pages.
    Soberjulie recently posted…Looking for a Summer Getaway? How about Blue Mountain #BlueMtnSummerMy Profile
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 18, 2013 at 5:16 pm

      Yay! So glad you participated! Good luck! Definitely is stylin’ gear for a stylin’ lady like yourself!
      babystylista recently posted…7 A.M. Enfant Voyage Bag for the Voyager in you… #Review and #Giveaway Canada/USAMy Profile
      Reply
  6. babystylista says

    July 18, 2013 at 5:12 pm

    Thank you so much! Believe me – it is a must-have! I have it sitting right next to me as we speak 🙂
    Reply
  7. Tracy Laidlaw says

    July 18, 2013 at 7:20 pm

    The WarMMuffs are such a great idea especially for long Canadian winters!! Even better because its pink of course! And the bag? OMG i need a pink bag!! I must get one!! After all, when you have a son and everything is in blue or green…Mama needs some pink in her life!! Right?
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:18 pm

      I COMPLETELY agree mama! Although – I would be the opposite, since everything is pink in MY world… I would grab a blue or green version just for the variety. Ha! You would LOVE the WarMMuffs too. It’s perfect for the East Coast weather. Good luck! I’m so glad you entered!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  8. Jonnie says

    July 18, 2013 at 7:37 pm

    I liked both on facebook and I want to win because a new baby is on the way and these would be so handy!
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:19 pm

      Congratulations on the coming baby! How exciting! Much luck to you with this giveaway!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  9. Rochel S. says

    July 18, 2013 at 8:22 pm

    I like both pages! I LOVE 7AM Enfant and I love this diaper bag! Love the look and especially love the colors it comes in!
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:20 pm

      Aren’t the colors amazing? We love 7 A.M. Enfant as well! (as you can see! :). Good luck!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  10. Lauren warren says

    July 18, 2013 at 8:25 pm

    I love love these prizes. I totally need a new bag and this one is so functional an gorgeous! I would be I’m such awe to win! And those muff are a must for those cold morning walks!!! Thanks for the chance!!
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:21 pm

      I’m so glad you entered and thank you for tweeting it as well! Yes – the functionality and the look is out of this world! Us mamas need these! Good luck to you!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  11. Tina Tapia says

    July 18, 2013 at 8:30 pm

    I like both pages on Facebook and follow both on Instagram! I would totally love this for my new baby! I’m having my 4th girl this week and I think every little girls mommy should have stylish baby gear!
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:22 pm

      Yay! Glad you also follow in IG! 4th GIRL!?!?!? You definitely deserve this! Congratulations and I hope your delivery is/was smooth and wonderful! Good luck with the giveaway!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  12. Nechama Levin says

    July 18, 2013 at 10:36 pm

    liked both pages on fb.
    Reply
  13. Nechama Levin says

    July 18, 2013 at 10:36 pm

    it wud b nice to get a new diaper bag for my new baby!
    Reply
  14. Melissa McFaddin Henry says

    July 19, 2013 at 2:43 am

    I have had my eye on this bag for awhile. Two in cloth, I need the space. Love bright colors!!! And the hand muffs would be great for running when it's cold when I train for races
    Reply
  15. Deborah Mullan says

    July 19, 2013 at 6:57 am

    Such a cute bag (oh the compartments, the things I could put in them)! And those muffs look amazing for walking along the windy harbour here!
    Reply
  16. michelle says

    July 20, 2013 at 10:01 pm

    following both @michellegalante
    I would love to win this, the diaper bag is so cute and practical but still has mad style. It works at diaper bag and works well to transition into the toddler years for toys, treats and extra clothing.
    The mitts would be great for cold windy days and the dreaded snow monster that will magically appear.
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:24 pm

      Haha! The snow monster. Yes – the snow monster. Not a big fan. But you will LOVE the muffs and may actually welcome the winter when you’re going on your walks with a pair. Good luck to you!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  17. Maegan Morin says

    July 21, 2013 at 3:52 am

    I like you both on facebook (same name)
    I would like to win because I am in desperate need of a new bag and I love how fun funky and stylish this one is :D.
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:24 pm

      It certainly is a fun and funky must-have item! Good luck to you!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  18. eleanor says

    July 21, 2013 at 3:47 pm

    I like both on facebook. This would be perfect for my newborn. I love the fashionable diaper bag because it looks like that it can hold everything I need. The warm muffs would be great to keep my hands warm during our cold winter months.
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:26 pm

      It sure would hold everything you need! (and more…). So glad you entered! Mama deserves this! Good luck to you!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  19. Lindsay Cyr says

    July 22, 2013 at 12:05 am

    I liked both @Babystylista and @7AMenfant on Facebook!
    I would love to have the 7 A.M Voyage Bag because it looks like an amazing bag. I love the fact that it has many different pockets so it’s easy to find items right away. I have a habit of just stuffing everything into our current diaper bag and then I can’t find what I’m looking for and have to take everything out. This bag would be so much better for me! Thanks for the awesome giveaway!
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:27 pm

      It’s so true. The pockets make life so much easier for mama. Good luck to you!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  20. Aura says

    July 22, 2013 at 2:51 am

    I like you both on facebook. The warmmuffs are perfect for cold NY walks in the winter and I like how lightweight the voyager is, perfect for stuffing for outings with my kids
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:28 pm

      YES – it is PERFECT for NY. We used ours in NY as well, and it was exactly what we needed! Good luck to you!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  21. Jennifer Paras Pappas says

    July 22, 2013 at 3:46 pm

    Following on FB! Love the bag. With a 2 1/2 year old and a newborn I have been on the hunt for a stylish bag that can carry everything but be lightweight! And with the chilly mornings here the muffs would be great our walks!
    Reply
  22. Nicki Zinken says

    July 22, 2013 at 4:16 pm

    liked @Babystylista and @7AMenfant on Facebook.
    Reply
  23. Jennifer K. C. says

    July 22, 2013 at 4:24 pm

    I like both pages on facebook! I would LOVE to win because you make the products look fabulous and I would LOVE to try them out!
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:29 pm

      My goodness – what a sweet compliment. Thank you! It doesn’t take much to make these products look fabulous – they are seriously awesome! And fun! I’m so tired of having the nondescript bag that doesn’t make any sort of fashion statement 🙂 Good luck to you!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  24. jeannine drenchek-scavo says

    July 24, 2013 at 7:37 pm

    I live in snow country and need the muffs when pushing my daughter. The bag would be perfect for going out and looking stylish

    I like you both on facebook

    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:30 pm

      YES – it’s perfect for Winter weather, and will look super cute pushing around your super stylin’ daughter! Good luck!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  25. Diana Cote says

    July 24, 2013 at 7:50 pm

    I already liked 7AM on facebook and babylista as well. I would love to win this because I do not own a diaper bag, my last one was a gift and it broke at the zipper and fell apart.I have been wanting one of these babies for a while, its spacious and i just love the color and i love all the pockets!!!! 😀
    Diana Cote recently posted…Try Conciousbox Free for the 1st Month!My Profile
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:31 pm

      I’m so sorry to hear about your last diaper bag. How frustrating. Yes – this one is spacious and won’t let you down. Good luck to you!!!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  26. jaime says

    July 24, 2013 at 8:20 pm

    this bag is awesome!!!
    Reply
  27. jaime says

    July 24, 2013 at 8:23 pm

    i liked on FB.
    I would love the muffs for the cold NY winters and the bag is perfect for everything i carry around all day
    Reply
    • babystylista says

      July 26, 2013 at 6:32 pm

      YES! Perfect for NY! We know first hand! Good luck!
      babystylista recently posted…By George, I Think She Had Him!My Profile
      Reply
  28. Valerie Godin says

    July 25, 2013 at 11:51 am

    following on FB.I am a busy mom of 5 always on the lookout for stylish new items. The muffs would be perfect for those chilly walks to the bus stop during the school year.
    Reply
  29. Sam Stamp says

    July 26, 2013 at 3:27 am

    Facebook Followers. I want to win for my cousin who has her hands full with a toddler & a newborn. I know she loves to take walks with them and could use this beautiful and roomy bag! The Muffs would be great too as it gets chilly where she lives!
    Reply
  30. babystylista says

    July 26, 2013 at 6:14 pm

    I know the compartments are amazing! You would LOVE the muffs especially during the wet winter season. Good luck mama!
    Reply
  31. babystylista says

    July 26, 2013 at 6:15 pm

    How wonderful you're entering for your cousin! Good luck! It would be the best present ever!
    Reply
  32. babystylista says

    July 26, 2013 at 6:15 pm

    5 kids! You DESERVE this and more 🙂 Good luck!
    Reply
  33. babystylista says

    July 26, 2013 at 6:16 pm

    This is perfect to have with a toddler and newborn. Especially with the convenience of the velcro muffs on the stroller. Good luck to you!
    Reply
  34. babystylista says

    July 26, 2013 at 6:16 pm

    Yay! Good luck to you!
    Reply
  35. babystylista says

    July 26, 2013 at 6:16 pm

    You train for races? Good for you! You would love how lightweight this is. Good luck to you!
    Reply
  36. babystylista says

    July 26, 2013 at 6:17 pm

    Congratulations on your new baby! Good luck!!!
    Reply
  37. Caroline Moustache says

    July 26, 2013 at 6:37 pm

    liked both @Babystylista and @7AMenfant

    I need to win because I only buy second hand goods to diminish my carbon footprint and 7 AM enfant products must be soo good that nobody wants to get rid of them since I can never get my hands on any but I would love to try them.
    Caroline Moustache recently posted…Discount Code for Dryer BallsMy Profile

    Reply
  38. Diane Marie says

    July 26, 2013 at 6:45 pm

    Omg love this bag!!!! Gotta have it
    Reply
  39. Julie G. says

    July 27, 2013 at 5:55 pm

    I have liked both on FB as Julie G.

    I love the bright colours and the multiple compartments. Think this would be a fabulous ‘welcome baby’ gift for my niece!

    Reply
  40. Brittany Sims Chelette says

    July 27, 2013 at 10:39 pm

    Would love the win the Warmmuffs for my cousin/first time mom as a gift since she's states away from family, and would LOVE the Voyage bag for all of our zoo and park trips <3.
    Reply
  41. Viv Sluys says

    July 28, 2013 at 12:52 am

    I liked both pages on facebook. I would love to own that diaper bag because it looks like it would hold everything I need to take my three young daughters out. I’ve never owned a new diaper bag, just second hand. I love the colours this one comes in
    Reply
  42. Jeannie says

    July 29, 2013 at 5:44 am

    I’ve already liked @Babystylista and @7AMenfant on Facebook. (name: Jeannie Lam)
    I’m a mom of 2 little ones and any bag that can keep my organized is a MUST have in my life right now. I’m from Vancouver, so the warm muffs will definitely come in handy during the wet and cold season.
    Reply
  43. Kim says

    July 31, 2013 at 4:03 pm

    id love to win as i am expecting in about 2 weeks
    Reply
  44. Holly Wheeler says

    August 1, 2013 at 9:02 am

    I liked u guys on Fb and IG. I would lobe to win because I have a four month old baby girl who I am taking care of pretty much on my own. I can't afford things like these because there are so many other things that are more important. I would be so grateful to win!!
    Reply
  45. Holly Wheeler says

    August 1, 2013 at 9:21 am

    *love
    Reply
  46. Brendy White says

    August 1, 2013 at 9:37 am

    I "like" @Babystylista and @7AMenfant on facebook. I am so in love and in need of this bag! It is the perfect size for me, mother of a 13 month old diva and due with princess #2 in September! Functional and fabulous at the same time, the 7A.M. Voyage bag is perfect and perfect for ME!
    Reply
  47. Crissy Fundaro says

    August 1, 2013 at 5:09 pm

    So fashionabale! A must have in my daily life!
    Reply
  48. Tannis W says

    August 1, 2013 at 5:12 pm

    I follow both babystylista and 7AMenfant on Facebook.

    I don’t have a diaper bag yet. I’ve been looking for a perfect bag, and this one looks like it may be it! I love the look of the bag and all the pockets. I think the warmmuffs would be a perfect addition to our home because we live in Canada… need I say more?!?

    Reply
  49. Elaine D says

    August 1, 2013 at 5:14 pm

    I’ve like @Babystylista and @7AMenfant on Facebook. I totally need the because it’s so super versatile and perfect for me because I’m always on the move! Thanks!
    Reply
  50. alice L says

    August 1, 2013 at 7:01 pm

    I liked both pages on Facebook! I would be honored to win the bag and muffs— the lightweight stylish bag with the mom in mind (im always in need of wipes bc babyV thinks she must touch everything in sight) is just what I need to keep my sanity. And let’s not talk about how bad winters are over here…Let’s just say the muffs will get lots of loving by me! Thanks for having this giveaway 🙂
    Reply
  51. Patricia Caro-Hickey says

    August 1, 2013 at 9:10 pm

    Love your blog! I also like to match with my little Olivia so this bag would be fabulous for us. We travel back to the East Coast every two months to visit family so not only would this very organized bag make things easier but we'll also travel in style. Hope we win, fingers and toes crossed!
    Reply
  52. Shelbee Cortes says

    August 1, 2013 at 10:42 pm

    I would love love love this! I need something a little stylish in my life, my boys have taken over all my swag!!
    Reply
  53. Shelbee Cortes says

    August 1, 2013 at 10:43 pm

    Also, I have liked both of ya'll on Facebook!
    Reply
  54. Marcela Rodriguez Welsh says

    August 1, 2013 at 10:56 pm

    Love 7 A.M. Follow them on FB! The neon green would be perfect for my little man who is due in September!
    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. From Nursery to Primary Giveaway Roundup (Plus Linky for All Giveaways) - Frugal Mom Eh! says:
    July 20, 2013 at 11:51 am
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who is Deb B. from Sass & Smalls

Sass and Smalls Profile 2021 www.sassandsmalls.com

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sassandsmalls

🎙 Podcast Host
TELUS TV STORYHIVE/Community Advocate for the overwhelmed parent, the invisible load they carry, & helping them get their ‘sass’ back.

It takes a village. … to bring a vision, a song, It takes a village. 

… to bring a vision, a song, a rebrand to life. 

Everyone celebrates the finished product

But I wanted to celebrate the people who helped create it.

This music video may have my face & voice on it, but it belongs to so many incredible people who gave their time, talent, encouragement and 💗.

From @jakerfilms, who completed 2 seasons of Sass & Small Talk with a bang, producing the most epic rebrand catapulting this whole thing - the very thing I never knew I needed.

To @eric.thebald who shared my vision & skyrocketed it to the next level.
 
To @erinbradleyartist giving my hair & face the ultimate retro beat down, reminiscent of the original Sass 👸🏻 in my life, to my fave @lindakyaw_m who challenged me out of my comfies & into my sass atw from LA 💃

to my leading ladies @rahannavu and @iamharpsra making sure I didn’t walk into a close-up with lipstick on my teeth and a shine on my nose - & hand slapping me if I so much as picked up a prop other than my mic, risking a broken nail or wasting a single breath.

@dn.gib capturing every single moment behind the scenes, so I have something to look back at when I need to remind myself how far we’ve come… 

To @rajinthehouse who proudly clapped the Film Slate like a pro / and looking darn sharp while doing so. 

An entire crew and a small and mighty team showed up simply because they believed in me.

Much more than I believed in myself. 

The laughs.

The nerves.

The tiny moments no one usually sees.

These behind-the-scenes moments are some of my favourite memories because they’re a reminder that none of us create something meaningful alone.

I’ve always said:

It takes a village to raise a child… and a community to raise a parent.

Today I’d add one more thing…

It takes a village to help someone find their sass again.

✨ Part 1

➡️ Come back for PT2 where I’ll show you how the magic came together.

🎵 Full music video available on my YouTube:
@sassandsmalls

#Sassandsmalls #bts #MusicVideo  FindYourSass CreatorLife VictoriaBC

Filmed, produced, & edited at @haus.of.owl - special TY to @remy.is.remy for having faith in what started off as a ‘crazy Deb I
Can moms chase big dreams without losing themselve Can moms chase big dreams without losing themselves… or the moments that matter most?

This conversation with the incredibly talented Nina Sinclair of @of.ocean.and.earth.photo challenged me in the best way.

We talked about motherhood, ADHD, entrepreneurship, asking for help, and redefining what success actually looks like.

Maybe “having it all” isn’t about DOING it all.

Both Nina and I learned that the hard way… and we’re sharing how, in this episode - “Modern Motherhood: Can Moms Chase Their Dreams too?”

🎧 Full episode now on YouTube. (link on stories & bio)

#WorkingMom #Mompreneur #ADHDWomen #Motherhood #WomenInBusiness ParentingPodcast VictoriaBC SassAndSmallTalk StoryHive
It’s RAW Deb again 😵‍💫😵‍💫 - sharing her early mor It’s RAW Deb again 😵‍💫😵‍💫 - sharing  her early morning ☀️POV from the trenches… 

I don’t think I’ve ever admitted this out loud…

For years, I convinced myself - I was just “busy.” And that I would be immune to consequences of my questionable habits.

But somewhere along the way…

late-night emotional eating became normal.

Four hours of sleep became normal.

Brain fog became normal.

Running on adrenaline became normal.

I wasn’t thriving.

I was surviving.

So instead of chasing another quick fix…

I decided, “Deb - enough’s enough”… 

With Jac-Lyn from @rewildfunctionalhealth, my hubby @gjavier5, my entire village of mamas and friends - at the sidelines, cheering me on and holding me accountable, It’s time to investigate: 
• My gut.
• My minerals.
• My nervous system.
• My habits.
• My faith.
• My mornings.
• The truth.

I’m not pretending to have the answers.

I’m simply inviting you to watch me find them.

Maybe you’re trying to get your ✨spark back too (@mama_brykin 😉) 

If so…

welcome.

The investigation begins.

☀️

#GettingMySassBack #MentalLoad #GutHealth #ADHDMom #MomLife Healing Journey Morning Routine Brain Fog Functional Health Victoria BC

For “Don’t Think Straight” the 📔 book, follow @jakerfilms. lotsa goodies in there…
I carried so much guilt this past year. June hit I carried so much guilt this past year.

June hit hard. Work. Caregiving. Mental load to the nth degree. End-of-school-year chaos. Health stuff. Heavy news. Financial stress. And loads of the dreaded Mama Guilt - of not being able to celebrate my son’s birthday for the 3rd year in a row due to unforeseen circumstances…

Then another mama, also tired, also busy, also carrying her own invisible load in the realm of business and caregiving, invited my son to join in for her already-planned birthday celebration for HER son…

And even if he was surrounded by new faces in a higher grade - it ended up being everything my son would’ve wanted: laughter, friends - new and old, Nerf battles, a waterslide bouncy castle of his dreams, a killer last minute donut cake tower from @pacificplatterscharcuterie (Thank you to another Mama that gets it!), and memories to last a lifetime…

It reminded me of something I think many of us need to hear:

Leaning on your village doesn’t mean you failed your child.

It means you SHARED a load you were never meant to carry alone.

There is something powerful about mothers who see each other’s invisible load… and quietly decide to help carry it.

The village I needed wasn’t made up of people with more time or more energy.

Sometimes our village looks like another mom simply saying,

“Don’t worry - I gotchu. Let’s do this together.”

And that is more than enough. ❤️

Bless your big, beautiful, busy heart my friend @sarjo08 and @jasonhemz for inviting us and filling my little man’s cup at a time we weren’t as equipped to. He had a blast and absolutely loved celebrating with him and all his friends … ❤️❤️❤️
For years, I honestly thought this was just mother For years, I honestly thought this was just motherhood.

Being exhausted.
Forgetting everything.
Feeling overwhelmed.
Running on caffeine and adrenaline.
Wondering why I never quite felt like me.

A while ago I started working on my gut 🥤health, and for the first time in a long time I noticed little shifts.

• More mental clarity.
• Less brain fog.
• More creativity.
• Better stress resilience.

It made me ask a question I couldn’t stop thinking about…

What if these weren’t just personality flaws or “mom life”?

What if my body had been trying to tell me something all along?

So I’ve decided to stop guessing.

I’m working with @jac-lyn from @rewildfunctionalhealth , a functional health practitioner, to dig deeper, explore root causes, and document the entire process: the wins, the setbacks, and everything in between.

I’m calling this series “Getting My Sass Back” because that’s exactly what it feels like I’m searching for.

Not perfection.

Just me.

If you’ve ever felt like you’ve been living in survival mode, I hope you’ll join me.

❤️ The investigation has already begun, and continues - so be sure to subscribe on YouTube (sass and smalls). Some pretty 👀 opening stuff… 

So grateful to you @i_am_miss_jen for the impeccable matchmaking. My health thanks you… 

#GettingMySassBack #FunctionalHealth #HealthJourney GutHealth BrainFog MomLife MentalLoad HealingJourney Women’sHealth HTMATesting VictoriaBC
It happened on Autism Pride Day. — For years, we It happened on Autism Pride Day.

—

For years, we spent so much energy trying to help our daughter fit into a world that wasn’t built for her.

We chased therapies.
We chased milestones.
We chased the idea of what we thought her future was supposed to look like.

Sometimes, if I’m being completely honest, we were trying to fix things we didn’t yet understand.

We heard heartbreaking predictions.

Some professionals told us she would likely never progress beyond the abilities of a five- year-old child.

We were told to prepare for limitations.

We were told to lower our expectations.

What no one told us was that the goal was never to make her more like everyone else.

The goal was to help her find her way to HERSELF.

That shift changed everything.

Over the years, we homeschooled when it was the right fit, even when others questioned it. We searched for programs that understood her. We listened to support workers who saw her strengths. We found camps, social groups, sports programs, and communities where she wasn’t expected to fit into someone else’s mold.

And little by little, she began to thrive.

She found her voice.

She found confidence.

She found belonging.

Most importantly, she found herself.

This year, after finding a school program that truly supports her learning style and focuses on life skills, she said something I will never forget:

“I finally feel like myself, Mommy.”

Those words healed parts of my heart I didn’t even know were still holding their breath.

Because the truth is, I wasn’t waiting for her to become someone different.

I was waiting to know she would be okay.

And she is.

Autism Pride isn’t about pretending there aren’t challenges.

It’s about recognizing that autistic people don’t need to become less autistic to deserve joy, friendship, opportunity, acceptance, or love.

It’s about taking pride in who they are and embracing the community where they belong.

Today, I celebrate my daughter exactly as she is.

She has taught me more about courage, authenticity, resilience, and unconditional love than I could ever teach her.

I am so proud of her.

And if I’m honest, she’s been my teacher all along.
Nine parents. Nine very different stories. (Mine, Nine parents.

Nine very different stories.
(Mine, included).

Military/Naval families. Solo parents. Single parents. Neurodivergent & Profound Needs families. Blended families. Adoptive families. Families navigating loss, burnout, caregiving, infertility, generational trauma, and everything in between.

What surprised me most wasn’t how different we were and how different our journeys were to get here.

It was how much we SHARED in common.

❤️

Season 2 of Sass & Small Talk reminded me that behind every smile, every school drop-off, every achievement, and every family photo, there is often a story no one else can see.

And yet, somehow, we keep showing up.

So take that moment to pause, and pat yourself on the back. Better yet, hug a parent in your life, who may be carrying that invisible load too.

It’s a game changer.

@jenny_p1987 
@caarly.xo 
@westislanddesigns 
@drawnpublications 
@nikkye_music 
@of.ocean.and.earth.photo 
@mama_brykin 
@spoletinigiuseppe 
@gjavier5 

Grateful for the platform you provided for us to share our stories @telus @storyhive  @haus.of.owl
FUN FACT: making a video podcast takes slightly mo FUN FACT: making a video podcast takes slightly more than one burntout mom with a microphone and a dream. 🤷🏻‍♀️

Meet the incredible CREW behind Season 2 of @sassandsmalltalkpodcast … the people who made me LOOK good, SOUND good, stay on SCHEDULE, and reminded me to sip on my HAPPY J 🥤. 

Huge thanks to my KILLER 🔥 CREW: @jakerfilms (editor & Sass 🎵 Man/Deb whisperer), @nikkye_music (set designer & Epi 4 Guest that made me 😭), @remy.is.remy (A/V Tech/ Production/ Lifesaver), @eric.thebald (A/V Tech/ Audio Mixer/Dreammaker), @hoelune (Production Assistant/Admin/Best support evah), @gjavier5 (Production Assist/ Moral Support/Lovah ❤️), @esther.driver (Production Assist/ Keep me in check/Mama support), and @telus @storyhive for making this vision into reality.

Special thank you to, Geoff @themurdles 4 keeping this chaos👸🏻 in line, and my 2 Smallies who inspired all of this. 👶🏻👧🏻 Love u 2 the 🌓 and back ♾️.

The GUESTS are AMAZING.
The STORIES are POWERFUL.
The SET is GORG (@haus.of.owl).
And all the episodes will be ONLINE and ready to binge TOMORROW - JUNE 16, 2026 on YOUTUBE!

It takes a VILLAGE to raise a child AND a PODCAST. 🎙️

Thanks my #BTS CREW, for being mine…

Ima go and cry myself to sleep now. I’m the luckiest & most exhausted 😴 Pod-Mom Host in the 🌎. Love you all too much. 

#humbled #letsgooooo
Behind every Momfluencer… It’s still the month of Behind every Momfluencer…

It’s still the month of May, the month moms get their Hallmark spotlight - So in honour of that, I wanted to share a little story.

When I first moved from LA to Victoria as a new mom and began building my brand online from home, I struggled with finding a true sense of belonging. I never felt like I fully belonged in the “mom world”, especially in a new community, not fully in the creative world, and definitely not in the often viral-chasing digital world I could never seem to keep up with.

Ironically, I was a “part” of everything but belonged to nothing.

…or so I thought.

As I opened myself up to the many communities WITHIN my community, I realized something:

The moment I stopped trying to “fit in” and leaned into who I actually am… that’s when everything changed.

And that’s what I love most about this group of women featured by @islandparent Magazine — in all the ways we are different, we are also one and the same.

Different voices. Different lives. Different ways of showing up for the world.

But all rooted in connection, creativity, community, and a deep love for our families.

Beyond being “mamas of influence,” these women use their platforms while opening their hearts and homes.

Some share family life tips, recipes, wellness journeys, sandwich gen truths, and initiate mental health conversations.
Some inspire through faith, fashion, creativity, gardening, travel, and outdoor adventures.
Some advocate fiercely for neurodivergent children while navigating neurodivergence themselves.

Some use storytelling, humour, or podcasts 😉 to help other parents feel seen and less alone.

And somehow, in between school pickups, medical appointments, assessment forms, homemaking, caregiving, and late nights searching for a little silence and brain clarity after long days of “othering” — we are building businesses, brands, and meaningful lives for our families.

We cheer each other on. 
We lift each other up.

And in finding my place within this realm of motherhood… I found home.

“It takes a village to raise a child… and a community to raise the parent.” 

#MomsSupportingMoms #VancouverIslan
POV: You’re SUPPOSED to be working on your podcast POV: You’re SUPPOSED to be working on your podcast FULL TILT… but your ADHD brain 🧠 chimed in:

“might as well just release a whole song while we’re at it” 🤷🏻‍♀️

So now my Auntie Norma 🇵🇭 can stream me on Spotify while she washes dishes 😂 #winwin (but still… #whatjusthappened)

Meanwhile:
🏠 messy house
🎥 unfinished podcast clips
🧺 laundry mountain thriving in the background

BUT ANYWAYYYY—

🎧 “I Need My Sass Back” is now streaming on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music & everywhere you listen to music 

Your fault, @jakerfilms for writing the darn thing in the first place… 🤣 #dontthinkstraight

Full video link is in my bio if you want the whole vibe 🎬
Apparently a lot of you are confused about where/h Apparently a lot of you are confused about where/how to actually WATCH this podcast I keep talking about… 😂

So here’s how to find @sassandsmalltalkpodcast Seasons 1 & 2 on TELUS Optik TV + Stream+ Ch.9 

And yes… I said TV. 📺 
(“Mom! Look! I’m on tv!” And yes… I did that too… 🤣🤣)

**Thnx to TELUS @storyhive  for making it possible!!

And until June… it will ONLY be available to those who have @telus as their provider or have access to Stream+ & OptikTV, then it will be out in the interwebs for all to see. 👀

My little podcast-that-could is up and running, alive & streaming. Just search within the app on your TELUS TV, “StoryHive Sass”

Season 2 of Sass & Small Talk features raw, meaningful conversations with the many faces of parenthood in our beautiful city, here on Vancouver Island (and beyond), caregivers, creatives, and changemakers carrying the mental load, navigating real life parenting, with honesty and heart. I promise you won’t be disappointed…

Featuring guests including @spoletinigiuseppe, @nikkye_music, @of.ocean.and.earth.photo, and more beautiful humans this season. 

MEET MY VILLAGE… 

Be sure to watch our Music vid tribute on YouTube to all of my guests from THEIR kids and I. Find, like, & Subscribe on YouTube.com/@sassandsmalls ALSO NOW AVAILABLE On Spotify and Apple Music/Itunes! 

#ParentingPodcast #CanadianPodcast #TELUSStoryhive #NeurodivergentParenting #mentalloadofparenting
MY SURPRISE PROJECT for my Podcast Guests - with a MY SURPRISE PROJECT for my Podcast Guests - with a little help from THEIR kids.. 

I didn’t expect this to actually work…

⸻

For the past few weeks, I’ve been working quietly on something really special — a surprise for every guest who’s ever been part of @sassandsmalltalkpodcast… from my Zoom OGs - circa 2022, to my TELUS @storyhive ⁠seasons on the tube 📺, to my crew/village/emotional support squad.

What started as a gift — a piece of music from my out-of-the-box-thinker & editor @jakerfilms, turned into something SO. MUCH. MORE. MEANINGFUL.

With the help of my incredible creative village at @haus.of.owl @remy.is.remy, led by the big beautiful brain 🧠 of Eric Hinch @eric.thebald, my Director 👏🏼🎬 Hinchalot Films (www.filmnow.ca), and the talented Dan @dn.gib & @erinbradleyartist 💄, we brought it to life!

… but the part that gets me right in the gut??

THE SMALLIES…. THESE KIDS….

The very kids who made all of us parents in the first place — including mine, who aren’t normally THIS comfortable “performing” in front of a camera.

Kids who have felt burnout.
Kids who have felt misunderstood.
Neurodivergent kiddos that hold a special place in my ❤️.

Kids who showed up anyway — with courage, joy, and love — to help me create something meaningful for their parents.

And somewhere in all of this…

I found my way back to me.

Back to music.
Back to creativity.
Back to MY SASS.
‘cuz isn’t this what Sass & Small Talk is all about?

⸻

This video is for my village.
For the parents.
For the kids.
For anyone who’s ever felt like they lost a part of themselves along the way.

⸻

👉 The full video is now on YouTube at https://m.youtube.com/@sassandsmalls
(Link in bio)

** Watch and feel COMMUNITY IN ACTION. Gosh - I love you guys!

Ps… If this resonates - keep up with new episodes already streaming on TELUS STORYHIVE - by liking & Subscribing!

“Cuz it Takes a village to raise a child. 

And a community, to raise their parent”

⸻

#SassAndSmallTalk #ParenthoodUnfiltered #MentalLoad MomLife FindYourselfAgain CreativeMom Storytelling VillageSupport TELUSStoryHive @hoelune @rahannavu @iamharpsra @rajinthehouse @lindakyaw_m @nengineermom @i_am_miss_jen @esther.driver
JENN. Meet my village… There are episodes… and th JENN. Meet my village…

There are episodes…
and then there are stories that change your life forever.

This one is both.

She’s not just my guest.
She’s the woman who offered a piece of herself… when our world was falling apart.

Because of her, we have our son.
Because of her, our family feels whole. 

And watching this back—seeing her complete her family too…
full circle doesn’t even begin to cover it.

I wasn’t planning to share this moment.
But this is what this season is about.

The real stories.
The unseen moments of a mama sitting in her living room after the kids are asleep. 
The love that carries families through the unimaginable.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like behind the scenes of motherhood, loss, and rebuilding…

This episode is for you. 🤍

🎧 Episode 1 is out now. 

TELUS OptikTV StoryHive gave me the platform to share these meaningful stories. 

Because it takes a Village to Raise a child. And a community to raise their parent. 
#eggdonor #chosenfamily #infertility #ittakesavillage #mentalload
Meet My Village 🤍 IT’s LAUNCH DAY!!! Season 2 of Meet My Village 🤍

IT’s LAUNCH DAY!!!

Season 2 of Sass & Small Talk, filmed at @haus.of.owl studios, on @StoryHive, Sponsored by TELUS, IS HERE 

… and these are the faces behind the real, raw, and beautiful stories of the mental load of parenting.

From Victoria, and beyond, each guest shares how they carry it all… and keep showing up.

Featuring a very special first episode close to my heart… and a full-circle finale with a dear childhood friend now gracing the stages of NYC - you won’t want to miss.

🎬 Watch now on TELUS Optik TV (Channel 9 On Demand) + Stream+

Let’s support local stories, local voices, and the village that holds us all.

Because it takes a village to raise a child… and a community to raise their parent.

#SassAndSmallTalk #StoryHive #MeetMyVillage
Easter used to feel like pressure: The perfect m Easter used to feel like pressure: 

The perfect meal. 
The perfect table. 
The kids sitting through the meal and actually eating it. 
The food not burning.

And somehow… still ending the day exhausted, touched out, and a little resentful… 

This year, I let go. I had no choice… with the launch of the new season on the pod, I had to choose my battles…

My 7-year-old — my busy, high-energy, “maybe not spaghetti” kid — decided he was making “superrrrr spaghetti.”
His way. 
His ideas. 
His “special ingredients.”

Was it messy? Yep.
Was it chaotic? Absolutely.
Was it perfect? Not even close.

But something shifted.

He took ownership.
He created.
He plated dinner like a little chef with a vision (volcano spaghetti and all 🌋🍝).

And he was SO proud.
And me?
I rested. I watched. I let go of control — and the mental load that usually comes with it.

THIS is what I’m learning:
• The more we try to control everything, the heavier it gets for us… and the less space our kids have to rise.

• When we let them lead (in age-appropriate ways), they don’t just help… they LEAD.

More pride.
More participation.
More appreciation.
More connection.
Less perfection. 
More magic.
** BONUS: and less craving for screen time #winwin

This wasn’t the Easter dinner I would’ve planned…but it’s the one we’ll actually remember ❤️

Taking a page outta your book @anna_skates ❤️❤️
Parenting Hack: Meet your child’s 🧠 exactly where Parenting Hack: Meet your child’s 🧠 exactly where they’re at. Embrace the chaos, the messy experiments, the unrelenting curiosity. Let their 🧠 do its thing and step aside to see the magic.

Took me an entire lifetime to figure it out:
• Spent all of my childhood trying to “fit in”
• Struggled to mask but did it anyway 
• Met a boy. Also a creative and professional masker.
• Took a “creative” path less travelled as young adult on a one way flight to LA
• Loved life. 
• Received negative feedback from well-intentioned naysayers and loved ones
• Felt shame for not hitting the markers 
• Became a mom. 
• Read ALLLL the parenting books. 
• Spent over a decade fighting against my  first born’s “artist” brain and finding ways to “fix” what was not even broken
• Hated conforming and made some pivots while wearing metaphorical headphones to block out opinions/outside noise
• Loved Life 
• Had my youngest little man - came out of womb loud, intentional, & unapologetic 
• Threw out all parenting books and accepted the beautiful neurodivergent 🧠s taking over our entire household
• Gave both kids creative freedoms and stepped aside (mostly not intentionally. they’re too fast and I’m too old) 
• Learned how to celebrate the curious, comical, and weirdly wired brains that is our family. 
• Let my kids teach ME to have courage, think differently, and not just take the road less travelled - but actually #owningit
• Jumped into creating my own #podcast headfirst and never looked back

“Don’t Think Straight”, by Jacob Insley, is definitely one of our go-tos I’ll be keeping on my bookshelf for years to come. 

@jakerfilms you killed it with all these nuggets and takeaways! We’re all fighting for a turn to read - look at you causing ruckus in our home!?! 🤣 PS - My little guy requests to be in your 2nd book. 🤣🤣

#bebold #getmysassback #create
Happy #LOVE Day Weekend…. It’s been a bitter swe Happy #LOVE Day Weekend…. 

It’s been a bitter sweet one this year. But we are working through Grief that will never go away. Especially on milestone days like this. 

Not only is it Dad Felix’s first Heavenly Birthday (Valentine’s Day), it’s also a day we lost our 6th pregnancy before we finally had our little guy. I truly believe Dad is as much present with our babies in heaven, as he is with his 4 Grandkids on earth. 

There’s healing in loving family. Thank you for your constant reminders of this Dad/Grandpa Felix. We miss you so much. 

#sandwichgeneration #caregiving #family #multigenerational
It’s giving dramatic dad/uncle vibes. When our f It’s giving dramatic dad/uncle vibes. 

When our first family friendly white 🥼 party turns into a full blown midlife crisis.🤦🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️

(And no… he is NOT okay)… 🤣🤣

#thisis50
#dadlife  #unclelife
#GenXLife
#ParentingMoments 
#TheyGrowUpFast 
#RealLifeParents
#riuwhiteparty
#mexico
#dinerenblanc
He turned 50. Shouting it from the rooftops was no He turned 50.
Shouting it from the rooftops was not an option, so naturally - we had it announced at 40,000 feet ✈️🎂

For context:
This man avoids attention like it’s turbulence.

This??
Actual NIGHTMARE. 😂🤣🤣

But after a rough year of loss, change, and having to step up in so many facets, he deserved a little LOUD love. 📣🎉🥳

Happy 50th to the man I’ve loved for more than half his life.
You chose me, chaos and all… so really, this one’s on you. 😉😉

Thanks @flairairlines for this unforgettable #birthday moment.

If you’ve got a second, send this sweet, shy 50-year-old young man some love… he’ll be back to low-key status in about 72 hours. ⏰💛

@gjavier5 💙💜

#ThisIs50
#50thBirthday 
#MarriageHumor 
#RealLifeMoments 
#PlaneAnnouncement 
#MilestoneBirthday 
#LoveInTheMiddle 
#LifeLately 
#ImperfectAndReal 
#FamilyLife 
#Grief
#caregiving
#GenX
#sandwichgeneration 
#ReelsThatMakeYouSmile
Holiday burnout hits moms and caregivers hard — an Holiday burnout hits moms and caregivers hard — and the guilt of not being able to do it all as planned can be heavy. 

This year, after months and months of overstimulation, busy-ness, grief, worries, transitions, and may many many sleepless nights, we chose quiet. Simple. Unplanned. And a lot of it had to do with my own exhaustion and not being able to do all the things - like I used to in the past.

And in letting go, my kids not only enjoyed the simplicity, pressure-free, they loved the spontaneity, the lack of rushing from one thing to another, keeping old traditions while creating new memories. 

They even offered to be a part of the planning and the doing. 

It never had to be perfect. 
It never had to just fall on my shoulders. 
And it never was about a tree surrounded with every item on their wishlist. 

They just wanted me to play with them, wrap gifts with them, eat with them, and let them do some of the caregiving as well. 

Maybe that was the magic after all.
For the last 3 Christmas seasons, my girls and I s For the last 3 Christmas seasons, my girls and I switched things up.  We were finding we were already maxed out with our own households - the lists, the gifts, the prep, the mess. Omg… the mess.

It was time to take a break from@the stress, and to find joy through this busy season, while putting our “cute” on again. 

… and so, the birth of “Annual High Tea with the ladies” came to be: 

We ditched the gifts. 
Kept the girlfriends. 
Elevated the carbs.
… and the heels.

And yes - the tea just got a little sweeter.

Got a holiday ritual that fills your cup (literally or figuratively)?
Me: We’re getting too old for this. Also Me: 🎥📹🔦 Me: We’re getting too old for this. 

Also Me: 🎥📹🔦💡💄💋

********************

Check out our #Behindthescenes done in our living room. (Grateful for the space @ginandneature 🤣🤣)

👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻
It’s been ✨14✨ YEARS of doing this as a family, I get asked every year how we pull this off. Esp with limited time, budget, and busy kids??

Easy: 
• Cue theme music (“Alexa, get us in #kpopdemonhunters mode”)
• Beat our faces down with a little @amoresarte_arteesamor  from our bestie Uncle @andrewvelazquez_ ‘s killer 💋 palette #onlythebest
• dust off my podcast studio lights, most likely incorrectly. (I am NO @remy.is.remy, @nikkye_music , @eric.thebald , @jakerfilms, @brianbobila, or @hoelune)
• clear my phone cuz it’s always full • throw on some DIY outfits we happen to have in our dress up trunk (OR Grammy’s closet!)
• grab last minute wigs (and in my case - clip on BANGS) that don’t exactly match the OG characters, but who cares… it’s our spin anyway…)
• George @gjavier5, our in-house Jinu, just got ready for the day as normal 😂😂😂😂😂😂
- Start bribing the kids AND George (but guess what - they LOVE our #familytradition too!! EVEN Jenny, my kiddo’s beloved (and often creepy doll who participates in most of our #FamilyHalloween themes. Gotta love Jenny!🪆

It’s 10000% chaotic, always a mess, but it’s how the Balinos do #Famoween (and Christmas… lazy greetings here we come), and we wouldn’t have it any other way. 

#BTS
The BALINO FAM is ready for our Comeback of 2025. The BALINO FAM is ready for our Comeback of 2025. 

Just call us the “B POP Fam-O-Ween Hunters” 🎤

Plot twist of 2025? Our demons to fight — grief and loss, overwhelm, caregiving challenges, new school, intolerance, advocacy, no sleep, basically… life-ing. 

But guess what?

We didn’t break — we TRANSFORMED. (As my kids would say - we SLAYED 2025). 

We stopped trying to fit into places that weren’t made for us. Just like these characters on #KpopDemonHunters

• We are choosing to show up for one another and our parents. Fully.
• We are choosing our battles 
• We no longer apologize for simply being us. In all our messy, chaotic #neurospicy, busy, loud, glittery, imperfect ways. 

And when we let our special big little girl be exactly who SHE is — not who the world told her to be — everything shifted. For HER and for our ENTIRE family. 

Peace came. Joy came. She shined.
Heck - she even spearheaded this year’s #famoween theme with the help of her “Baby” bro. It’s been 14 years of finding her place in the world and facing heartache and struggle along the way. We had a BREAKTHROUGH this year.

But it started with working on us as a family. 

So here we are.

Tired.
Ready.
Golden.

✨The B POPS✨
• George as “G-NEW” (Jinu) - the brooding lead of Saja Boys🔥charming and charismatic but struggling on the inside ✅

• My girl as MIRA” - tough and spicy but sensitive on the inside ✅

• My Baby boy as “Baby” who relies on his cuteness to get things done ✅ 👀

• Me as “Zoey”, just a big kid trying to figure out where she belongs. Always learning. ✅ ✅✅✅

(Also… yes. The 5th main character, Rumi (my daughter’s beloved doll who often makes a cameo in our fam-o-ween posts. Can you spot her our lead? 👀💜)

Watch out world. We may be getting old, but we’re ✨ #Golden. ✨

Pls leave a comment👇🏻and let my creative fam (so lucky to have you, @gjavier5 and my crazy kiddos) know whatcha think of our theme this year!
👻👻👻🎃🎃🎃🎃 Rainy day at @galey_farms with the fam an 👻👻👻🎃🎃🎃🎃

Rainy day at @galey_farms with the fam and it was exactly what we needed. So much fun, and great for a good scare cuz I’m just a big 🐓. 

And those donuts…. #nextlevel. As was that #cornmaze🌽 

Thanks @ingirlsclub for organizing a core memory for my girl and all the girls and their/our families! It’s hard to organize things with my little family while #caregiving, and often we have to decline, but we are so glad this worked out. This group activity made it so much more feasible for us. #sandwichgen #sandwichgenlife #elderlycare

#Halloween #fall #family #YYJ #pumpkins #pumpkinpatch #trainride #familyfun
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