Guides

New Parents Struggle: 4 Ways to Provide Your Support

Published

8 months ago

August 5, 2022

Adam T

4 Simple Ways to Support New Parents Who Are Struggling

Do you have any new parents in your life? Perhaps you have friends who just had a baby, or perhaps a family member or coworker recently became a parent?

If someone in your life is just starting their journey of parenthood, they’re going to need more support than they might feel comfortable asking for. If you want to help them, but don’t know how, here are some of the biggest struggles they’ll face and ways you can provide your support.

They’ll have low energy for basic tasks

New parents will naturally be low on energy, whether it’s from staying up all night soothing a crying baby, feeding every few hours, or stress. This lack of energy will make it hard for them to accomplish even the most basic tasks like doing the dishes and scheduling appointments.

One of the best ways to help a new parent is to manage the tasks they don’t have the energy for. Granted, this is easier to do when you live with them or if they’re a family member you see often.

The most important task you can take on is handling their appointments. Find out their schedule of availability and once you know their schedule, you can make all of their appointments for them. For instance, if they need lactation support from a professional breastfeeding consultant, schedule their consultation with an IBCLC so they don’t need to make the phone call or deal with the logistics.

In addition to managing their appointments, consider doing household chores like laundry and dishes. You’d be surprised to learn how the smallest tasks can help the most. Here are some more ideas for small tasks you can take on to help:

Basic yard work
Making school lunches for their older kids
Picking up and dropping off older kids for school, sports, and appointments
Coming over for dinner and cooking for the whole family
Grocery shopping
Run random errands like going to the hardware store
Anything else that would alleviate stress and/or save time

They might be exhausted from breastfeeding

Many new mothers face unexpected challenges with breastfeeding. Sometimes they don’t have the energy to breastfeed throughout the day, but don’t want to depend on formula when it’s not necessary. In this case, you might be able to help make breastfeeding less exhausting.

One thing new parents can do is pump ahead of time to make sure they always have enough milk on hand for the baby. You can help with this process by feeding the baby for them and offering to clean the pump and bottles so they don’t have to work so hard.

They might need emotional support

Chances are, the new parent in your life will need your emotional support. The stress of being a parent can be extremely taxing and a little emotional support can go a long way.

You can spend time with them, share meals with them, or just make them a cup of coffee and talk. It also helps to simply be an ear or a shoulder. It never hurts to ask your friend or family member exactly how you can support them. If they know what they need, they’ll tell you.

Supporting a new parent emotionally is sometimes even more important than supporting them with money or taking over their household duties. New parents are going to be exhausted, and emotional support can sometimes be the magic pill needed to reduce stress and help them feel more rested and relaxed.

Ask what you can do for them

The number one way to support anyone is to ask what you can do for them. Most people know what they need and will tell you if you ask, even if they wouldn’t normally offer the information.

Ask the new parent in your life what you can do to help them while they figure out their new routines and get settled into parenthood. Let them know that no request is too small and if they don’t have any ideas in the moment, make sure they know they can reach out to you at any time.

Every ounce of support makes a difference

It doesn’t matter how much or how little you can offer the new parents in your life. Being a new parent is challenging, and every ounce of support will be appreciated.

Guides

Tokyo Disney Will Soon Feature “Tangled” And “Frozen” Villages

Tokyo Disneyland will soon feature entire villages dedicated to Tangled and Frozen.

Published

3 days ago

March 26, 2023

Loren Thorn

If you haven’t really ever considered taking a trip to Tokyo and checking out Tokyo Disneyland… it’s time to start considering it. Disney fans were dancing in the streets when they heard the latest news: Tokyo Disneyland will soon feature entire villages dedicated to Tangled and Frozen! Yeah. You heard me right.

The scheduled open date is for some time in 2022. It comes as part of a complete overhaul of their DisneySea attraction and will also include an extensive Peter Pan experience. Here’s a closer look at what they’re planning.

TANGLED VILLAGE

For those that are still missing out and haven’t yet seen Tangled, it’s a new take on the famous story of Rapunzel. The Tokyo Disneyland Tangled Village will include Rapunzel’s tower, the nearby forest, and the restaurant where Rapunzel and her prince, Flynn, dine and sing the wonderful song “I’ve Got a Dream.” And yes, the restaurant will be a fully functional restaurant where you can get a delicious meal. So fun!

PETER PAN VILLAGE

Tokyo Disneyland is also just straight up adding Neverland. So cool. Naturally, you’ll get to meet Tinkerbell and Captain Hook while you’re there. And there will also be a functional restaurant inspired by the Lost Boys and their famous hideout. If you’re like me and never want to grow up, this will be the place for you.

FROZEN VILLAGE

Frozen is one of the biggest Disney hits in a very, very long time. We still can’t go a week without hearing some version of “Let It Go,” whether it be the real, recorded version or just some adorable kid belting it out while their parents roll their eyes.

From the official statement from Disney, the Frozen village will be “a heartwarming new attraction that will take guests by boat to experience the story of Elsa and Anna while enjoying iconic songs from the hit film, and a new restaurant will be located inside Arendelle Castle.” Yeah. They’re building the castle. I can’t wait!

A NEW LUXURY HOTEL

The renovation will also include a brand new amazing luxury hotel. It will reportedly be “themed to Disney fantasy” and will offer amazing views of all the different areas of the new development. It will also include 475 rooms, two restaurants, and a shop where you can grab all the Disney gear your heart desires.

THE WHOLE SHEBANG

I mean COME ON! Doesn’t that just look magical! I guess we shouldn’t expect any less from Disney. I just wish 2022 wasn’t so far away. But make no mistake… I’ll be there!

Guides

Disaster That Can Occur When Traveling And How You Can Respond

Published

4 days ago

March 25, 2023

Adam T

The lockdowns due to the pandemic have led people to travel at massive rates. This summer is going to be full of travel despite prices going up for everything worldwide. Gas prices are something that are crippling some families as prices have doubled in some locations in the US. There are issues that can arise when traveling that you might have to deal with. Most people have had to deal with one or more of these situations when traveling during their lifetime. The following are typical disasters that can occur while traveling and how to respond.

Involved In A Car Accident

If you have been involved in a car accident then you need to contact a local attorney. Finding out what to do when involved in car accidents in Georgia or your location is very important. Driving in a new city can be overwhelming as some locations are known for extremely aggressive driving. Taking an Uber or taxi is another option but this doesn’t eliminate the possibility of an accident but could reduce it.

Flights Delayed For Days Or Completely Cancelled

Flights getting delayed due to weather is something that happens around the world. What has been happening domestically is a shortage of airline workers is leading to cancellations unexpectedly. Some airlines have more flights canceled than others which you need to keep in mind. The tough aspect of this is that it could be days until there is another flight that will reach your ultimate destination. Take the time to look at options like that of a train as this can be a convenient option with less of a chance of a delay.

Getting Sick While Traveling Abroad

Getting sick while traveling abroad is something that people have nightmares about. These can be a huge issue especially when the rest of your party has left the country. You want to ensure you are going to travel in good health as a long flight while under the weather can be disastrous. Food poisoning is quite common for travelers that are trying new foods that might not agree with their stomachs. You want to ensure you are getting enough rest and washing your hands regularly. You do not want a preventable sickness to arise just before you are about to head back home.

Arrested Due To A Cultural Misunderstanding

The most important thing that you can do when traveling abroad is to look up local laws and customs. You do not want to be arrested due to a misunderstanding. You also should realize that some police might be looking for a bribe as this is common in some foreign countries like Brazil where the police force is notoriously corrupt. Certain countries are governed by religious governments so something that is not remotely illegal domestically could land you in prison internationally.

Traveling can allow you to broaden your horizons and see all the world has to offer. Plan what you can as luck will always play a role in having what you deem as a successful trip.

Guides

How To Do Napa Valley Right

If you’ve never had the pleasure of enjoying a perfect weekend in Napa Valley, you’re missing out. Let this article be your guide once you do!

Published

5 days ago

March 24, 2023

Loren Thorn

Whether you’re going for a romantic getaway, a girls weekend, or some quality mother-daughter time, Napa Valley in California wine country can be a perfect weekend vacation. As an experienced Napa-head myself, let me teach you how to do Napa right!

STAY AT A B&B OR DON’T STAY AT ALL

Come on now, people. We’re talking a weekend in wine country here. There’s no place for hotels! A charming Bed & Breakfast will only amplify the quaintness of the whole experience. There are plenty of reasonably priced options available in the area. And if you can sneak out on a Friday, it always makes for a better weekend if you can wake up at your B&B on Saturday morning.

ACTIVITIES GALORE!

I know it’s hard to believe and potentially even unnecessary to mention, but there are plenty of great activities in Napa Valley that don’t involve wine tasting. I know, I know. What’s the point, right? Well, some people like a little variety, OK? So if that’s you continue reading. If you only care about the wine maybe skip the next few paragraphs.

Oxbow Public Market: This lively market is perfectly nestled right against the Napa River. It’s full of plenty of vendors selling all sorts of fresh produce and also contains numerous delicious restaurants. So this is a great place to grab a quick lunch or get some ingredients to make your own lunch later.

The Silverado Trail: This beautiful trail just about runs the entire length of Napa Valley. It has amazing views and can be a perfect place to clear your head and get your calm on. And if you’re more of the active type, it’s great for biking!

Greenhaus Day Spa: What’s a weekend getaway without a trip to the spa? Greenhaus Day Spa in downtown Napa is widely considered the best spa in the area. Get the full treatment with a relaxing massage, a cleansing facial, and the all-important mani-pedi combo.

WINERIES ON WINERIES

Now, let’s get down to why we’re really here. If we’re talking about Napa Valley, we’re talking about wine. There are plenty of amazing wineries and vineyards in Napa, but here are our personal favorites.

O’Brien Estate: This is one of the most popular wineries in all of Napa and actually requires booking your tasting in advance. But trust me, it’s worth it! Make sure you try the Chardonnay and the Cabernet Sauvignon as they are just to die for.

Pride Mountain Vineyards: This vineyard requires a bit of a drive, but it’s worth it. The whole property covers about 235 acres and has gorgeous views in every direction. When it comes to wine, their claims to fame are their Cabernet Sauvignon and their Merlot.

V. Sattui Winery: While the wine her is truly excellent, this spot is also great for a picnic lunch. You can grab everything you need in-house: the cheeses, the fresh bread, the antipasto spreads, and a nice bottle of wine and then grab one of the many picnic tables outside and take it all in.

OK, is anyone as excited as me to head back to Napa? How’s next weekend look for you? Great! See you there.