A note to my readers: This post is adapted from a letter I wrote to myself about what it is like to be laid off and what I’ve learned during this season. My hope is to return to it in the future so I never forget the lessons I gleaned—and to carry forward the gratitude…
Halloween has taught me some surprising things about motherhood. While the “-ber” months have always been my favorite–with an excuse to celebrate around every corner and the freedom to either go all out or stay in–now that I’m a mom, these moments feel even richer. As my daughter grows and experiences each holiday season a…
About this time last year, we learned that our daughter was going to need a cranial helmet. Up until that point, I hadn’t given them much thought. Honestly, I assumed (wrongly) that babies who wore them must have a disability or head injury. I’d heard the phrase torticollis helmet thrown around, but I didn’t know…
This comforting vegetarian butternut squash curry is a staple in our home year-round. However, there’s something about eating it on a crisp night that makes it taste even better. Nothing will warm you quite like this delicious blend of spices, or fill you like this veggie/bean combination. A Reluctant Curry-Lover If you were to ask…
If you’ve ever noticed how some people seem to absolutely glow during the holidays, chances are it’s not by accident—they’ve simply given themselves a head start so that they can enjoy a stress free Christmas. A little planning now can mean a lot more peace, joy, and cookie-baking fun later. Over the years, I’ve found…
Celebrations don’t have to come with stress—or a second mortgage. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, holiday gathering, wedding, or just a cozy get-together, it’s totally possible to create something special without draining your bank account. Here at MamasAndChai, we believe in working with what we’ve got and finding joy in the simple, intentional touches…
Every fall, once the evenings start getting cooler, my husband and I slip into a cozy little routine of catching up on our favorite YouTube channels like Trout and Coffee. After the dinner dishes are washed, our daughter’s in bed, and the day’s chores are behind us, we unwind by watching videos full of autumn…
It’s totally possible to design adorable play areas for children, even when you live in a small house, or don’t have a ton of space to work with. And the good news? It doesn’t require a ton of money either. While we may all dream of the giant playrooms with hidden storage that we see…
While some people don’t mind spending $40+ on a store-bought costume they’ll only ever wear once, I’m a bigger fan of DIY Halloween Costumes. You can live a beautiful life on a budget without spending a ton of money. I’d much rather shop my own closet, see what I already have, and get creative. It’s…
Easy Seasonal Eating for Busy Women: Fall & Winter Made Simple Although seasonal eating is technically a year-round possibility, it feels most magical in fall and winter. Warming flavors like maple, butternut squash, and—of course—pumpkin spice are more than just inviting. They’re nostalgic. Think about it: you probably won’t remember that random night you ate…
