good reads Archives - My Inner Shakti

RECENT HAPPENINGS

Maybe you’ve noticed that I’ve been blogging less lately? I’m trying to figure out how to balance MIS the blog and MIS Instagram page. I love writing long blog posts and really digging deep into a specific topic or idea. But recently, I’ve discovered that I also love microblogging on IG, and I really love the community I’m slowing building there as well! I haven’t figured anything out yet, but don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere on either platform. So much relief, I know! HA!

In terms of life events and recent happenings, we’ve had quite a bit going on (well, more than usual) and more coming soon! Vishnu and I spent this past weekend in Traverse City attending two good friends wedding. Since the wedding festivities were on a Friday, we made Saturday an explore and drink wine day. So much fun! And one of the best parts was that Kaiden had the opportunity to spend time with his grandparents. He had so much fun!

This coming weekend, Vishnu’s cousin and his family will be in town, so we hope to spend some time with them in the city. We’re also going to see Hasan Minaj! A few of our friends who’ve already seen his most recent show said it’s amazing with really on point messaging. Woo hoo!

October includes a few big birthday celebrations – Vishnu, my sister, and Vishnu’s brother! It’s also the month Vishnu leaves us for 4 weeks! I don’t even want to think about it. I will say though that knowing my MIL will be here with us to help is a great relief! Also knowing we’ll be in Atlanta for a little over a week in early November is also giving me something to look forward to.

Other than that, our little family of 3 is doing well! Kaiden is just getting bigger, smarter, funnier, and cuter with every passing day! He’s now imitating faces (it’s hilarious!), running/walking REALLY fast, and starting to talk more. He’s still very much attached to me whenever possible, but it’s not as bad as it once was. And honestly, I miss his CONSTANT need for my attention! Vishnu’s busy with work and fellowship applications. I can’t believe in less than a year we’ll know where we’re headed next (or if we’re staying in Chicago). Crazy! And last but not least, I’m doing well too! I feel so much more motivated and excited about stuff than I did just a few weeks ago. I’ve also been keeping up with my workouts (BBG, treadmill, spin) which makes me feel good and on top of my s***. Overall, all good stuff.

PRODUCT LOVES

Mega Blocks – I got these for Kaiden a while ago, and at first, he was all about throwing the pieces around. But as of late, he’s really been into building AND knocking them down. It’s fun to watch him figure out how to connect the blocks, identify colors (sometimes!), and get excited about whatever we’re building. These are a true pain to clean up but worth the joy they bring!

Pacifier clips – My friend Pankti told me about this genius product, and I wish I would’ve known about it sooner. Kaiden is notorious for throwing his pacifier and then crying about it. Now, even if he tries, it ain’t going anywhere! These are truly a lifesaver, especially when we’re out and about.

Summer Infant 3D Lite Stroller – Vishnu and I needed to invest in a travel stroller and fast. Kaiden’s now in a convertible car seat so we can’t really use the car seat + frame stroller method when we’re out and about. We used Summer Infant stroller for the fist time at the museum, and Kaiden didn’t seem to mind it all. It’s easy to use and is pretty generous in terms of space for things other than your baby.

Amazon Basics Packing Cubes – My sister introduced me to the concept of packing cubes, and I haven’t looked back since. These little guys really do keep everything organized, which is always my biggest problem when travelling. This is a must own product if you ask me. In fact, I literally just bought Vishnu a set in black.

Amazon Basics silicone baking mats – I wanted to get silicone baking mats so that I can steam roast veggies for K, since regular roasting isn’t his favorite (yet!). The name brand one was just too expensive for my liking, so I decided to give the ABs one a try and so far so good! If you want to know more about steam roasting, visit the @calebthefoodie IG page for me. It’s a great resource.

Beartown+ Us Against You – This little book duo is freaking amazing! I can’t recommend it enough. If you’re looking for books that grip you from the beginning and take you on a journey with some incredible characters, these two are for you.

GOOD READS

There’s No Love Like the Love Your Kids Have For Your When They’re Small

Five Positive Parenting Lessons From the World’s Favorite Teddy Bear

Have a great week!

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My blogging mojo has been off for the past week or so. I have lots I want to share but 0 energy when it comes time to sit down and type. That’s life I suppose!

Kaiden’s been a little off the past few weeks, which threw me for a loop. I know I shouldn’t let it, but it’s hard. For example, he’s had a fever every week for the past three weeks. It comes, sometimes stays for a few days, and then goes. One of those fevers led us to discover his first ear infection. Poor bubs! The next one lasted a day. Like I said, he’s been all over the place. The doctor said it’s likely due to daycare. More than anything, I’m thankful it’s nothing serious, but it just throws me off when he has to stay home from school, we go back to multiple wake ups throughout the night, etc. Understandably, everything is either put on hold or straight up ignored until he feels better. Such is life with a baby!

Apparently, he’s also in the middle of a LEAP week. When I told Vishnu about this concept and what it means, he said the whole thing doesn’t make sense. I feel like the signs/symptoms match up to a tee, so I’m on team LEAP!

In the midst of fever land, we spent some time with family this past week. My aunt (mom’s youngest sister), uncle, and cousin visited from Arizona and stayed with us Wednesday through Saturday. This was their first time in Chicago, and they LOVED it. Because Vishnu and I had to work Wednesday and Thursday, they went out and explored on their own. On Friday, we walked to Millennium Park, the Bean, and Grant Park. We also made our way to Lincoln Park to see my sister and Adarsh. We ended our night with a fun little quiet (sleeping baby!) game night at our place. So much fun! I wish all my favorite people lived in a 1/2 mile radius from me and not hundreds, if not thousands, of miles from me. Wouldn’t that be nice?!

Other than that, we’re gearing up for our week long trip to Vail. We leave next Monday! Vishnu’s cousin’s getting married, and we’re so excited for the family reunion. I’m hoping Kaiden’s sociable side makes an appearance versus his ‘I’m going to cling to my mom for dear life’ side.

And finally, is anyone else in denial about summer coming to an end in like a month? Chicago starts to cool down in September, so we really only have a month or so left of warm/hot summer temps. I’m hoping we get a bit of an extension this year (FINGERS CROSSED!).

Good reads

Whenever I read an interesting article/blog post, I think about sharing it on MIS but then forget. With that, here are all of my forgotten but good reads from the past few weeks…

Goodbye Dr. Spock

Your Best Parenting Advice: From Meddling Parents To Poop Management

Motherhood in the Age of Fear

In Which I Lost My Wedding Ring (the comments are gold!)

The Joy of Missing Out

How to Trust The Division of Responsibility Model for Feeding Kids

And with that, I hope you have a wonderful start to your week!