My Inner Shakti

finding strength in everyday things

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Random Rambles

written by Parita 1 Comment

Ok, first thing’s first. How is it mid-November!? This year seriously flew by (as I say about time in general!).

This picture has nothing to do with this post! It’s just a fun one of my baby, so I’m sharing it.

Anyways, we’re leaving for the Bahamas tomorrows (for our friend’s wedding), so I thought I’d check in and say hi before disconnecting for a bit.

Oh the Bahamas. I’m so excited to be in warmer weather and reunited with some good friends, but we have no idea how Kaiden is going to adapt. I’m 110% sure he’s going to have a blast, as so many people are bringing their kids. But the thing that concerns me is sleep. We’re sharing a room with him, so I just hope he sleeps. The last wedding we attended back in April ended up being a disaster in terms of his sleep (and mine…and everyone else’s). FINGERS AND TOES CROSSED!

Speaking of sleep, if you follow me on Instagram, you know that we’re dealing with some stuff in that area with K. Tuesday night was really good (no crying…more sleeping), so I’m hoping we’re on a positive trajectory. Also hoping our upcoming travel doesn’t mess things up again! FINGERS AND TOES CROSSED!

I’ve been doing a lot of 2019 reflecting this week. There were some absolutely amazing and joy filled moments, and some down times as well. One of the things I want to work on is not taking on needless stress. I need to think about how to do this a little more, but I tend to internalize a lot of things that can be easily delegated or just let go. I want more joy and less stress in 2020. I already have my word of the year…so be on the lookout for that!

I’m also working on planning for 2020 because I have a few work trips already on the calendar, we have at least three weddings lined up, Vishnu and I want to take a couple of trips, etc. And this is just the travel component. We also signed K up for soccer. I’m sure lots of other things will get squeezed in as well.

Speaking of 2020, I can’t believe we’re here. I’ve been thinking about this year for a long time. I think it’s because of the show 20/20. I know it’s not the same thing (year vs. vision), but in my brain, the two are connected. I remember being 16 in year 2000 thinking about how in 2020 I’ll turn 36. “How old!” was the exact thought. Annnnd just like that, we’re almost there!

What else?

Vishnu and I are still trying to make healthy choices on a daily basis. So far so good! For us, it’s mainly about cutting out post-dinner snacks (Vishnu -savory stuff, me – sweet stuff). We’re also back to regular workouts, which help tremendously. Here’s to an even healthier 2020!

To switch gears completely, I have to share that I finally purchased a Live Tinted Hue Stick in the shade Found. My mom was actually the one who convinced me. She asked me what I knew about these sticks, and I told her that I wanted to get the newest shade. She said the same, so we ordered them together! Not sure when I would’ve gotten around to that if she hadn’t asked me. Thanks, ma!

Speaking of my mom, it’s HER BIRTHDAY TODAY!!! Happy happy birthday to my fun, funny, amazing, compassionate, powerful, and beautiful momma! Love you forever in circles and circles!

That’s all I have for today. Nothing too exciting…pretty damn tired…looking forward to the end of the year…hoping to blog at least 2x a week in 2020 (so expect more random rambles type updates!)…

Happy Thursday!

Written on November 14, 2019 Related:Life, random, Uncategorized

Sharing a Little ‘ING’

written by Parita 3 Comments

Something I want to get back to (and I’ve shared this before) is old school blogging.  Blogging about life, current happenings, random stuff.  I still LOVE the blogs that keep it informal and real.  More of that in 2020 for sure!

With that being said, the ‘ing’ type posts were super popular when I first started blogging, so I thought I’d bring it back today. 

Without further adu – here’s what I’m feeling, travelling, sweating, seeing…and on and on!

FEELING – To be honest, I’m feeling a little bit of everything right.  Thankful, calm, and overwhelmed at times.  Part of this, I know, has to do with DST.  I hate that it gets so dark so early, and I know that it impacts my mood for sure.  As I’ve alluded to in the past, I’m trying my best to implement strategies to keep the negative emotions at bay – scheduling me time, fun activities for K, date nights, etc.; making sure I have one thing to look forward to every week; picking good books that I don’t want to stop reading; going to the office 1-2x a week; not skipping workouts.  Just a few things I’m doing to combat the ‘winter blahs!’

TRAVELLING – We/I have three trips from now until the end of December – Bahamas (all of us…for a good friend’s wedding), London (just me…for work), and Atlanta (all of us!).  I think all this travel all around the same time is adding to my overwhelm, but I’m trying to focus on the fun aspects versus the stressful ones.  Even though it doesn’t feel like it all the time, we’re giving Kaiden a gift by taking these trips and creating memories.

SWEATING – I was on such a good workout streak, and then all of the aforementioned travel started.  I’m still trying to get in 3-5 really solid workouts in every week, including classes at my gym, treadmill runs/walks, Barre3 online, YouTube workout videos.  I can use all the endorphins I can get!

SEEING – Kaiden grow up in front of our eyes!  It’s crazy but I feel like he’s a different kid every day.  He has recently started talking to Alexa…more like bossing her around…but it’s the cutest!  He’s also asking at ton of questions like, “Mama, what are you doing?  Where did dada go? Why?”  And then when I answer he either says, “otay” or asks the question again!

WATCHING – We’re still watching The Americans (even though it’s been a minute).  And I’m still watching This is Us and A Million Little Pieces.  I like that I don’t have a ton of shows on my lineup but that I love each one that I do.  It’s a good feeling!

LISTENING TO – You guys know me…I’m all about that podcast life.  Currently, I’m really loving The Happiness Lab, Mommy Group, The Time-In Talks Podcast.  Highly recommend checking them out!

READING – I’m currently reading The Tattooist of Auschwitz.  I’m only on chapter 6, but it’s a heartbreakingly beautiful book so far.  I’m a little obsessed with World War II books.  I can’t imagine living through that, so I want to immerse myself in the lives of the people who did.  Anyways, will post a review to my IG page once I’m done.

WRITING – I’m writing a lot for my IG page and less for the blog itself.  Something I want to change going forward.  I have lots of ideas and plans for 2020, and I’m hoping I can use my December ‘break’ to figure that stuff out!

LOVING – It’s hard to pick one thing.  As cheesy as it sounds, I’m really loving my husband right now.  I mean, I love him always and forever, but over the past few weeks, I’ve taken the time to really appreciate him and our relationship.  He’s my #1 supporter, the best dad, and just someone who genuinely wants to see me happy.  LOVE MY, BOO!

EATING – More salads, that’s for sure!  On this week’s meal plan I have, Cookie and Kate’s Chilaquiles, Pinch of Yums Kale, Butternut Squash, and Lentil Soup, and Piping Pot Curry’s Lemon Parmesan Orzo.  Can’t wait!

WEARING – You guys, it’s officially winter here in Chicago.  Whoomp, whoomp!  And this means I’m wearing my legit North Face winter jacket, Uggs earmuffs, and North Face Gloves…plus a scarf, boots, etc.  Basically, the whole nine yards.  It’s going to a long few months!

PLANNING – I’m planning to start planning at the end of December!  I got a new 2020 planner and it’s very different from what I’ve used in the past.  Don’t worry, I’m going to be sharing more about this very soon!  I’m so freaking excited…it’s a little stupid!

Ok, so that’s what’s been going on in my life!  I hope you have an awesome weekend!

Tell me – what do you think of old school blogging?  So, more about the blogger’s life versus what the blogger thinks about specific topics.  Of course, you can incorporate the latter into the former and vice versa, but the back in the day blogging had a different feel. Would love to hear your thoughts!

No portion of this post is sponsored.  However, affiliate links are included. There is no extra cost to you, but I do receive a small commission on anything you buy through my links.  Thank you for reading and supporting My Inner Shakti!

Written on November 8, 2019 Related:Bloggin, Life, random, Uncategorized

High 5 on a Friday!

written by Parita Leave a Comment

I really expected this week to drag a little, especially because Vishnu’s on nights and I really don’t enjoy this schedule.  For some reason, him being on nights makes me feel unproductive and lazy.  I usually sit on the couch after putting Kaiden down and watch Friends, only to fall asleep on the couch by 9 pm.  This time around though, I’ve been semi-productive.  I think the ‘falling asleep on the couch’ thing only happened once.  Look at me grow!

Anyways, with that, let’s move on to the five random things I want to share this week…

ONE – My youngest cousin on my mom’s side started college this week.  I was talking to my masi (aunt) about it and how they’re doing, and something she said really hit me hard.  She said, “Parita, I know everyone tells you this, but trust me, the time goes SO fast.  I can’t believe Milan is 18 and starting college.  I miss the days where I could just hold and kiss him whenever I wanted to.  It’s like I blinked, and he grew up.” 

Of course, that got me thinking about how K only has 16 years left with us at home before he goes off into the world.  I know 16 years is a long time, but if you think about what you were doing 16 years ago, I’m sure you’ll feel like it was yesterday to some degree.  Crazy! 

TWO – We have quite a bit of travel coming up in September – December.  I’m trying not to think about it too much, because when I do, I get really overwhelmed.  Here’s a little rundown…

  • September – Vishnu in Germany for bachelor party
  • October – Cabo with the fam and London for work
  • November – Bahamas for a wedding.  Vishnu in Austin for a race.
  • December – London for work and Atlanta for holidays (hopefully!)

So grateful for all of these opportunities and to take Kaiden on some fun adventures.  It just feels like it’s happening all at once!  Woooo sahhhhh!

THREE – I did a ‘ask me anything’ type thing on my Instagram stories this week, and whenever I even contemplate doing something like that, I get nervous.  The thoughts that run through my head are – who cares, what will people think, who am I to do something like this, etc.  So silly given that I’m doing it for fun, but those thoughts come up every now and then.  A lot of the questions I got this time around were about being a new blogger, etc.  I think it’s easy to say that you shouldn’t care about what other think, but it’s a lot harder to conquer that fear.  I’m no exception.  But once you do, it’s amazing.  I got a handful of really good questions and loved answering them.  Even better was all the engagement after I posted.  So many fun DM convos!

This is all to say that if you have an idea, and it brings you joy, just do it!  You won’t ever know what YOU’RE capable of if you only think about what others think you’re capable of.  Prove them wrong (or right!).

FOUR

Since K turned two, I’ve started saying nightly prayers with him.  So when we enter his room for bedtime, I say, “Let’s say our prayers together.”  And he nods yes or says ‘yeah.’  Then we go on to pray for the world, our individual family members, and friends/family that need special/more specific prayers.  Then I sing a specific prayer song I really love.  Before putting him down, I always sing the first couple of lines from “You are my sunshine.”  I’ve been doing this since he was a little baby!  Well, for some reason, K starts giggling like a madman when I do this, which makes me laugh too.  It’s the best!  Probably not for getting him to sleep right away, but his giggles always make my night! 

As much as I want to pull my hair out sometimes, I really do love this age and the antics that comes with it!

FIVE

For those of you thinking about making a purchase or two during the Sephora summer sale, I thought I’d share a few of my favorites. 

  • My Drunk Elephant picks are all listed in this post.  I cannot tell you guys how much I love this brand and what it’s done for my skin.  My BIL’s girlfriend who was just here less than a month ago told me my skin has transformed.  It’s still not perfect, but she said it looks so much smoother.

    If you’re a newbie to DE, I highly recommend starting with the Littles kit, figuring out which products really work for your skin and purchasing full size bottles accordingly.

    The thing is DE is worth every penny, but it truly costs A LOT of pennies!
  • I’ve fallen in love with this Hourglass Ambient Lighting powder again (I use the shade Dim Light).  I used it all the time before having K and even afterwards but stopped using it when my skin started acting up last year and early this year.  Well, I’m bringing it back into my routine because I love how it adds the right amount of color to my skin as well as a slight glow (without the grease).  If you’re looking for a good setting powder, I would say this one is pretty perfect.  
  • And finally, if you need a good eyeshadow recommendation, I would check out Tarte.  I have a smaller palette from the brand with six shades, and I love it!  The formula is so buttery and it really doesn’t crease much at all throughout the day.  And the different palettes/colors are gorgeous.

Well, folks, that’s all I have today!  Until next week…

Have a wonderful weekend!

Written on August 23, 2019 Related:Life, random, Updates

73 Questions

written by Parita Leave a Comment

I love old school blogging.  You know, day in the life of/chit chat/journal type posts.  While I still loosely follow that format here on MIS, I honestly miss some of my favorite bloggers writing in that same way.  I hear it’s making a come back though so stay tuned!

In the spirit of old school blogging, I decided to answer a 73-question survey I first saw on Julie’s blog.  It’s super random, but because I love these kinds of posts, I decided to partake!

Note that most of my answers are exactly what came to mind in the moment.  If you’ve been wanting to get to know me on an even deeper level, here’s your chance!

1. What’s the best thing that happened to you this month? Kaiden started sleeping in until 6-6:30 am (for the most part)!

2. What is something you’re tired of? How divided and caustic our country has become.

3. What is something that recently moved you? A text exchange with a good friend who is currently experiencing some hardship.  Her strength is inspiring.

4. If you could teach one subject in school what would it be? Math

5. What’s your favorite beverage? Sparkling water

6. What’s your favorite cocktail? Moscow Mule

7. What is your favorite birthday cake? Anything with lots of chocolate!

8.What is one thing you still have from your childhood? My goofiness

9. What is your favorite movie? Now and Then

10. What is something you can’t do? A cartwheel

11. What is one habit you wish you could break? Picking at my skin

12. What makes you laugh no matter what? Vishnu (my hubby!)

13. What does creativity mean to you? Doing what you love

14. What are your favorite lyrics of all time? Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein…

15. What is something you’ve always wanted to try but you’ve been too scared to do? Bungee jumping

16. Best advice for your 19 year old self? Practice self-love every damn day – physically, mentally, emotionally.  I don’t know much, but this much I do know – loving yourself for who you are is the key to a joyous and fulfilled life.

17. If you could raid one woman’s closet who would it be? Nasreen from HeyNasreen

18. Must have purse item? Wallet

19. What did you want to do with your life at age 12? I think at that age I wanted to be news reporter.

20. What is something you will not be doing in ten years? Working an 8-5 [insert prayer hands emoji!]

21. What is an important life lesson for someone to learn? Constantly thinking/worrying about what other people think is a surefire way to be miserable.  

22. What is one goal you are determined to achieve in your lifetime? Start my own business.

23. Would you ever live anywhere besides Chicago? Yes, Atlanta.  HAHA!

24. What is your favorite dessert? Chocolate chip cookie

25. Is there a dessert you don’t like? Anything made with mint and/or white chocolate

26. It’s brunch! What do you eat? Chilaquiles

27. Who is your favorite painter? Michelangelo

28. Favorite Disney animal? Baloo 

29. What is a book you are planning on reading? Things You Save in a Fire (release date August 13)

30. What did you read most recently? I’ll Never Tell

31. Favorite solo artist? John Legend and Alicia Keys

32. What’s your Favorite board game? Taboo will always have my heart!

33. What’s a city you wish to visit? In the US – San Francisco.  Internationally –Barcelona.

34. Heels or flats? Flats!

35.  Where does one go on a perfect road trip? California

36. What do you do on a rainy day? Read, sleep (well, at least pre-baby me did this!)

37. What’s your favorite exercise? All time – running.  Currently – TAP classes at my gym.

38. What was your worst subject in school? Physics

39. What is your spirit animal? Monkey

40. What do you usually eat for breakfast? Protein shake

42. Cooking or Baking? Love both, but if I had to choose, cooking.

41. What do you usually eat for dinner? Varies by the day!

43. Favorite baked good? Soft, warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies

44. What is something you wish you could be good at? Playing the piano.

45. Skiing or Surfing? Neither!

46. First celebrity crush? Mike Vitar from Sandlot and The Mighty Ducks.

47. Most recent celebrity crush? Matthew Rhys (you guessed it…from the Americans)

48. What color was your prom dress? I didn’t go to my junior or senior prom.  Whoomp whoomp…

49. How do you manage stress? Deep breathing, making to do lists, and talking it out with someone I’m close to.

50. What do you do to relax? Read, write, or watch TV

51. Age when you were first kissed? 13 or 14

52. Place you were first kissed? My friend’s basement (we were playing spin the bottle)

53. Favorite fashion trend of all time? High-waisted EVERYTHING!

54. Best fashion advice you’ve ever received? Dress for your body.

55. Trend you would like to see disappear forever? Super duper short shorts

56. Shoes or Bags? Shoes!

57. How do you know if you’re in love? When you feel 100% yourself around the other person and don’t question every word, move, etc.

58. Television show you’ve binged on recently? Currently – the Americans.  We’re hooked!

59. Who do you turn to when you’re sad? My husband or my sister.

60. Name one thing you’ve learned the hard way? Loving myself is the key to joyous existence.

61. If you could make a documentary about anything what would it be? The crisis at the border and the state of the detention centers.  More people need to be made aware of what’s happening in our own country for things to change.

62. What is your Kryptonite? My son’s smile and laugh!

63. What are you most enchanted by? The way my son says ‘I love you!’ And sunrises/sunsets.

64. What is your biggest strength? Reading people – what they’re feeling, thinking, etc. Sometimes I’m wrong because I go a little too deep, but most of the time, I’m spot on!

65. What is your biggest weakness? My ability to overthink everything and then blame myself no matter what.

66. What are 3 words to describe living in Chicago? Cold, walkable, food [lover’s paradise]

67. Cutest thing on planet earth? Babies interacting with each other

68. Most important advice you’d give your future children? Be kind…always.

69. Best first date idea? Walking and eating your way through your city!

70. Favorite type of flower? Lilies or roses

71. What do you first notice about someone when you meet them? Smile and sense of humor

72. What’s your guilty pleasure? Currently – binge watching the Americans.  

73. Plans for the weekend? My BIL and his girlfriend are visiting from Atlanta, so hanging out with them!

No portion of this post is sponsored.  However, affiliate links are included. There is no extra cost to you, but I do receive a small commission on anything you buy through my links.  Thank you for reading and supporting My Inner Shakti!

Written on July 31, 2019 Related:Blogging, Life, survey

Appreciating Boredom

written by Parita 2 Comments

I’m not sure why, but one of my most vivid childhood memories is laying on our carpeted living room floor in the smack dab middle of a Rhode Island summer.  I still remember the sunshine filtering in through the front window hitting my face at just the right angle so I couldn’t keep my eyes open.  And of course, like most homes in our neighborhood in the early 90s, ours didn’t have central AC, so window units and standalone fans it was.  The fan was such a constant in my life that I can still hear the motor running on high. 

Why am I sharing such a descriptive mundane memory?  Well, because when I think about my childhood, it was filled with moments like this.  Where I was doing nothing and was most likely bored.  And to be honest with you, I want to ensure Kaiden’s childhood also includes a little boredom…a little stillness.

Kids these days are overscheduled and overcommitted.  There’s music class, dance class, sports, swimming, play dates, etc.  On top of that, there’s something called school and everything that comes with it.  Technology adds a whole other layer of complexity.  iPhones and iPads are staples in most homes.  Gone are the days of basic TV channels only (which is what we had growing up).  I think our current package has over 1800 channels.  WHY!?

There is literally no time for boredom. Not a good thing!

I honestly don’t know how I’m going to not only force boredom on my kid as he gets older but also show him that it’s a good thing! Especially with all the distractions that are bound to come up.  But I truly believe a little quiet time should be woven into every kid’s day.  Time to just be.  To think.  To imagine.  To feel the sun shining on his/her face and hear the buzz of the central air in the background (ha!).  To be bored.

I guess modeling this is probably the best way to do it.  To put our commitments and gadgets aside and let our kids see us just be.  To let them see how it makes us feel to be free for just a few minutes a day.  Maybe this is the true test. We have to do it first.

If that doesn’t work, you better believe I’m going to tell K my ‘boring’ childhood stories until he has them committed to memory.  That’ll make him crave quiet time!

Written on May 23, 2019 Related:Life, motherhood, Toddler

Checking In

written by Parita Leave a Comment

Happpppy Tuesday! It’s been a while since I’ve checked in and shared the random stuff we’ve been doing, reading, eating, etc. Today’s the lucky day!

Fair warning. This post is going to be a bit all over the place. 🙂

Vishnu and I are trying to cut back on the number of toys we get K. Vishnu’s also trying to get rid of some of his current trinkets. With that being said, while I do think less is more, especially for young kids, sometimes I can’t resist and I end up buying something on Amazon. Take these big stuffed balls as an example. Kaiden is OBSESSED with balls, so how could I not hit purchase? And in my defense, they’ve been a hit!

When it comes to books, I don’t hold back! I really want to instill a love for reading in K starting at an early age, and thankfully, my persistent ways seem to be paying off. Kaiden loves it when we read to him! The other day, he brought me a book at 5:30 am. Ha! And while I think all books are great, I wanted to see if K would take to science oriented books, so I bought Hello World! Solar System and the Baby Loves Science Board Book Set. I loved science books as a kid (my favorite one was about dinosaurs), and I still do to an extent, so I figure it’s a win-win for all of us!

And when I’m not reading to K, I’m trying to find time to make a dent in book #5 of 2019, I’m Not Judging You. So far I really like it – it speaks to so many truths in a funny way. Will share more when I finally finish it!

Going back to Kaiden and his obsession with balls, you should’ve seen him at the Children’s Museum this past weekend. The only thing he wanted to do was bowl. Such a big change for my little guy who usually just wants to hold the bowling ball and roll it to me. But this weekend, it got to the point where I had to carry an upset little Kaiden out of that specific area because it was time to go! Such a little character.

In terms of meals we’ve been loving, The Chutney Life’s Instant Pot Lasagna Soup still tops the list. It’s so easy to make and it tastes so damn good! A must make IMO. We’re also loving the Trader Joe’s mushroom and truffle ravioli paired with the kale and cashew vegan pesto. I think K ate like six ravioli in record time!

For those who follow me on Instagram, you may be aware that Vishnu and I are trying to up our salad intake. I’ve been sharing my daily (ish) salad creations on IG, and so far, people have been loving it! All of this started when Vishnu proclaimed that he didn’t want to take a sandwich to work every day. He wanted to go back to the salads he used to take, but this time, he didn’t want me to get the prepackaged kind. He suggested that we make our own! I jumped on the salad bandwagon because I definitely needed to add some good things to my diet. It’s been a few weeks now, and we’re still going strong! Here’s to more veggies and lots of fun salad combos to come.

Switching gears a little bit, my friend Sonal featured me on her blog Coffee & Chai. I wrote a post about what it’s like to raise K as an Indian American, what our biggest priority is, and some of the small things I do on a daily basis to instill our cultural values in him. Give it a read and let me know what you think!

And finally, I just want to share something super small and unimportant. Our cleaning person came on Monday, and it made my day! Our apartment was very crumby and just didn’t feel that clean to me, and by the time she left, it looked like a brand new place. It doesn’t hurt that Nermina is now like a friend and always a pleasure to see! Now to only find a way to keep it this way for longer than five hours!

Ok, enough of my randomness for one day! Have a happy Tuesday, y’all!

P.S. Also, be on the lookout for an exciting blog related announcement this week! Can’t wait to share. 🙂

Written on April 9, 2019 Related:Life, random, Uncategorized

Let’s Talk about Evening Routines

written by Parita Leave a Comment

Routine is key in our household. If we stray a little too far to the right or left, everyone feels it! But in all seriousness, after having Kaiden, I’ve become a full fledged believer in the power of routines for children. They thrive when they know what’s coming. I’m not saying a little spontaneity shouldn’t be added to the mix every now and then, but I do think having a pretty predictable evening routine whenever possible sets the foundation for good sleep. Welllll….maybe, maybe not. We’re still working on that sleep thing!

Anyways, I thought I’d share our evening routine, not because it’s perfect or the way everyone should do things, but because I’ve gotten a few requests to share things like this more. I’ll admit that I also love reading about the behind the scenes of people’s lives. It’s the little nosy person in all of us coming out!

So here’s a breakdown of our weekday evenings from start to finish…

4:30 pm – Vishnu or I pick up Kaiden at daycare. If Vishnu goes, I use that time to clean up around the house, fold laundry, and/or start dinner prep.

5:00 pm – We arrive home, drink some milk (Kaiden), and start to pull out all our toys (also Kaiden).

5:30 pm – I begin/continue prepping dinner. If Vishnu’s not home, this is a hit or miss for me because when K doesn’t have my full attention he basically attaches himself to my leg. I’m still trying to figure out the best way to pay attention to him and get stuff done. Work in progress!

Anyways, the main entree is usually done for the most part, so this is mainly roasting/chopping veggies. After I’m doing that, we continue playing some more until dinner time.

6:15 pm – Time to eat! I’ll be honest, dinnertime still gives me some anxiety. It’s hit or miss in terms of how much he eats. But I’m trying to trust the process in that K will eat however much K needs to eat. I do find a lot of relief in the fact that he eats a lot at daycare. So he’s definitely not starving!

6:45 pm – Bath time! This is one of my favorite parts of our evening routine. Kaiden loves the water and splashing around, so it’s a great time to let loose and have a little fun.

7:00 pm – Kaiden is usually in his PJs ready for story time. We turn off all the lights and settle in on the couch to read at least 10 books (some all the way through, but most only partially because K gets bored!).

Right before we sit down, I also quickly set up his room for bedtime – humidifier on, air purifier on, lavender oil dabbed all over his crib, etc.

7:25 pm – Time to brush K’s teeth! He doesn’t love this but he tolerates it because he likes the toothpaste. Ha!

7:30 pm – Kaiden’s down for the night. 9/10 this is a pretty easy process. I put lotion on K’s face and some Badger Balm on his nose and neck. Then I hold him in rocking position, sing “You are My Sunshine” a couple of times, ask him if he wants to be put down (he nods yes) and that’s that! Very rarely he’ll put up a fight which requires more rocking, shushing, etc.

8:00 pm – Vishnu’s usually home by this time (he’s been staying at work to study until about 7:30 most weeknights). The kitchen is clean and everything else is usually in order (i.e. K’s toys!). We sit down to catch up, do work, watch TV, etc.

9:30 pm – I brush my teeth, go through my skincare routine, and get into bed to read for 15 minutes.

10:00 pm – Lights out…time to SLEEEEEEEPPPPPP!

So tell me, what’s your favorite part of your evening routine?

Written on March 27, 2019 Related:Baby, Life, motherhood, Uncategorized

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