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Welcome to Happy Mama Happy Babies, a virtual space for parents, mamas in particular, to have a front row seat at the activities my family and I enjoy, the memories we make, the places we see, the books we read, and so much more, in hopes to inspire others to parent outside the box and create happy, healthy children and environments.

Parker’s Book Club shares her latest, favorite reads. Join us as we explore her love for books and share amazing recommendations, too!

As a wife, New York Times Best Selling author, blogger, and millennial mama to three happy littles, I stand firmly on the belief that a happy mama makes happy babies. Life is short, and we deserve every moment of happiness we can seize! Even better, we deserve to experience that happiness with our tribe. Cheers to more joy, more life, and more memories!

We’ve just launched a new Isopods UK business, a new business dedicated to providing high-quality isopods for hobbyists, breeders, and bioactive enclosure enthusiasts across the UK. Whether you’re looking for hardy cleanup crew species for your terrarium or rare, exotic isopods to add to your collection, we’ve got you covered. Our isopods are carefully bred and shipped with care to ensure they arrive healthy and thriving. With a passion for these fascinating little creatures, we’re committed to offering top-tier customer service, expert advice, and a growing selection of species. Stay tuned as we expand our offerings and bring more unique isopods to the UK market!

Click here to read Parker’s latest review!

Latest Blog

Budget-Friendly Nursery: Estimating Your House Painting Cost in Edmonton

October 19, 2025 No Comments

Welcome, Little One! Why a Fresh Coat of Paint Matters for Your Nursery

Preparing a nursery is one of the most joyful parts of expecting a new baby. A fresh coat of paint does more than just add color; it’s about creating a clean, welcoming, and safe space for your new family member. Getting a clear idea of the house painting cost Edmonton painters charge helps you set a realistic budget for a room that feels serene, playful, or whatever mood you envision for your little one.

There are practical upsides, too. A new paint job instantly refreshes the room, covering any old scuffs or imperfections on the walls for a truly fresh start. This is also the perfect opportunity to select low-VOC or zero-VOC paints, which are a much healthier choice for a baby’s developing respiratory system. Think of it as the beautiful foundation upon which you’ll build the rest of your nursery’s design. 👶

Decoding the Dollars: What Affects Painting Costs in Edmonton?

Several key elements come into play when estimating the cost of painting your nursery. The size of the room is the most obvious factor, but don’t forget about details like ceiling height, as taller walls require more paint and time. The current condition of your walls is also a major consideration. If they need extensive patching, sanding, or repair work, this preparation stage will add to the overall labor and final price.

Other variables can also sway the final quote. The type and quality of paint you select will directly influence material costs, with premium brands costing more per gallon. If you want the trim, doors, or ceiling painted, that will be an additional expense. A project with multiple accent colors or intricate designs will naturally cost more than a straightforward, single-color application, as it requires more precision and time from the painters.

The DIY Route vs. Hiring a Pro: A Nursery Painting Showdown

Taking on the painting project yourself can certainly be a money-saver, as you won’t be paying for labor. For many expectant parents, it can also be a fun and satisfying part of the “nesting” process. This path requires a good amount of your own time, a lot of patience, and the correct tools to get the job done without looking messy. If you have the energy and confidence, it can be a great option for a tight budget.

Hiring a professional painter in Edmonton offers a completely different set of benefits. It saves you an incredible amount of time and physical exertion, which is especially valuable during pregnancy. Professionals bring the skill needed for crisp, clean lines and a flawless finish. They handle all the prep, painting, and cleanup, ensuring a high-quality job is completed safely and efficiently. No accidental paint splatters on the new crib! ✨

Savvy Savings: Tips for a Budget-Friendly Nursery Paint Job

There are plenty of clever ways to reduce the cost of painting your nursery. If you’re hiring professionals, you can lower the labor charges by doing some of the simple prep work yourself. Clearing the room of all furniture and obstacles means the painters can get straight to work. Another great tip is to keep an eye out for paint sales at local Edmonton hardware stores to cut down on material costs.

You can also make design choices that are friendly to your wallet. Instead of painting the entire room in a more expensive designer color, consider creating a single accent wall. This approach delivers a big visual impact for a fraction of the cost and effort. Always make sure to get at least three quotes from different painting companies to compare their pricing and services to find the best value for your project.

Choosing the Right Paint: Safety and Style for Your Baby’s Room

When painting a nursery, safety should always be your top priority. The most critical factor is the paint’s chemical makeup. Always choose paints labeled as low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or, even better, zero-VOC. These formulas release far fewer harmful fumes into the air, which contributes to a healthier indoor air quality for your newborn to breathe, sleep, and play in.

Once you’ve picked a safe formula, you can focus on the fun part: the color! Soft, calming shades like gentle blues, muted greens, and warm neutrals are classic choices for creating a peaceful and soothing atmosphere. It’s also wise to think about the future; selecting a versatile color that your child can grow with is a more economical choice than a baby-specific theme that may feel dated in just a few years. 🎨

Prepping for Perfection: The Unseen Costs in Nursery Painting

Remember that the total expense isn’t just the price of the paint cans. A list of necessary supplies can add up. You will likely need a good primer, quality painter’s tape, drop cloths, rollers, brushes, and trays. If the walls have dings or holes, you’ll also need spackling compound and sandpaper. Be sure to account for these items in your budget if you’re going the DIY route.

Time is another valuable resource to consider. The preparation stage is often the most labor-intensive part of any painting project. Properly cleaning the walls, filling every little hole, sanding down imperfections, and meticulously taping the trim takes a lot of patience. A professional painter’s quote includes this labor, but if you’re doing it yourself, be realistic about how much time you’ll need to dedicate to get it right.

Getting Your Quote: What to Ask Your Edmonton Painter

When you reach out to painters for an estimate, it helps to be ready with a few questions. Ask for a detailed, itemized quote that clarifies exactly what you’re paying for. Does the price include the cost of paint and all materials? How many coats of primer and paint are factored in? What level of prep work will be performed? A transparent quote helps you avoid any unexpected costs down the road.

You should also ask about project logistics. Inquire about their proposed timeline and how many days the job is expected to take from start to finish. It is also smart to ask about their liability insurance and if they offer a warranty on their workmanship. A reputable Edmonton painting company will gladly provide these details and give you the confidence that your baby’s new room is in excellent hands.

A Happy Tummy for a Happy Mummy: Simple Tips for Improving Your Digestive Health Postpartum

October 18, 2025 No Comments

The Postpartum Tummy Tango: Why Your Digestion Feels Different

The first few weeks and months with a new baby are a beautiful, chaotic whirlwind. Amidst the snuggles and sleepless nights, you might notice your digestive system is acting a bit… off. Issues like constipation, bloating, and gas are incredibly common after childbirth, and you are certainly not alone in this. Following some straightforward postpartum digestive health tips can make a real difference in your comfort and overall well-being as you adjust to motherhood.

There are many reasons for this digestive disruption. Hormonal fluctuations play a big part, as do the physical strains of labor and delivery. Your abdominal muscles have been stretched, and your internal organs have shifted to make room for your growing baby. If you had a C-section, major surgery adds another layer to the recovery process. Be patient with your body; it has done an amazing thing, and getting back to a normal rhythm takes a little time and care.

Hydration is Your New Best Friend 💧

If there’s one simple thing you can do for your digestion, it’s to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is crucial for everyone, but it’s especially important for new mothers, particularly if you are breastfeeding. Water helps to soften stool, making it easier to pass and preventing the discomfort of constipation. It also supports every single system in your body, which is working overtime to heal and produce milk for your baby.

Try to keep a large water bottle with you at all times—next to your feeding chair, on your nightstand, and in your diaper bag. If plain water feels boring, mix it up! Warm lemon water in the morning, caffeine-free herbal teas like peppermint or ginger, and nourishing bone broths all count toward your fluid intake. Eating water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges can also contribute to your hydration goals.

Fiber-Rich Foods for a Smooth Recovery

Fiber is a key player in keeping your digestive system regular. There are two main types: soluble and insoluble, and you need both for a happy gut. Soluble fiber, found in foods like oats, apples, and carrots, dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance that helps add bulk to your stool. Insoluble fiber, found in whole grains, nuts, and leafy greens, helps move material through your digestive system.

Introduce fiber into your diet gradually to give your system time to adjust. Start your day with a bowl of oatmeal topped with berries and chia seeds. Add a handful of spinach to your smoothie or snack on a pear with a few almonds. Choosing whole-grain bread over white and adding beans or lentils to your soups and salads are other easy ways to boost your intake without a lot of fuss.

Gentle Movement to Get Things Going

The thought of exercise might feel overwhelming right now, and that’s completely okay. We’re not talking about high-intensity workouts! Gentle, consistent movement is a wonderful way to encourage bowel regularity. A short, slow walk can stimulate your intestines and help alleviate gas and bloating. It’s also a great way to get some fresh air and a change of scenery for you and your baby. 🚶‍♀️

Always listen to your body and get the green light from your healthcare provider before you start any physical activity. Simple postpartum-friendly stretching or a gentle yoga flow at home can work wonders. Even just walking around your house or doing pelvic floor exercises while you sit can help awaken your core and support your digestive tract. The goal is gentle stimulation, not exhaustion.

Probiotics: Your Gut’s Little Helpers

Your gut is home to trillions of tiny bacteria, collectively known as your microbiome. This community of bacteria can be thrown off balance by pregnancy, childbirth, stress, and any antibiotics you may have received. Probiotics are the “good” bacteria that help restore harmony to your gut, which can improve digestion and even support your immune system.

You can find probiotics in a variety of delicious foods. Look for yogurt or kefir with “live and active cultures,” and try fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, or kombucha. For many new moms, a probiotic supplement can be a convenient and effective option. It’s always a good idea to chat with your doctor or a naturopath about choosing a high-quality supplement that is right for you.

Manage Stress for Better Digestion

The connection between your brain and your gut is incredibly strong. When you’re stressed, tired, and anxious—all common feelings for a new parent—your body releases stress hormones that can slow down digestion, leading to constipation and discomfort. Caring for a newborn is demanding, so finding small moments to relax is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for your health.

You don’t need an hour of uninterrupted peace (as if! 😅). Try taking five deep, slow breaths whenever you feel overwhelmed. Accept offers of help from friends and family so you can take a 20-minute nap or a quick shower. Prioritize rest when you can, even if it means letting the laundry pile up. A calmer mind often leads to a calmer tummy.

When to Seek Professional Guidance

Most postpartum digestive troubles resolve with time and a few lifestyle adjustments. It’s important to know when to reach out for more support. If your symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerns like fever, intense pain, or bleeding, it’s time to call your doctor. Don’t dismiss what you’re feeling as just a “normal” part of being postpartum.

Your intuition as a mother is powerful, and that includes tuning into your own body’s needs. A healthcare professional can offer personalized advice, run tests if needed, and ensure there aren’t any underlying issues that need attention. Taking care of your digestive health is a vital part of your own recovery, allowing you to feel your best as you enjoy this precious time with your new baby.

Feeling Exhausted? Why New Moms Should Get Their Iron Levels Checked

October 17, 2025 No Comments

The Unspoken Struggle: Beyond “Normal” New Mom Fatigue

The first few months of motherhood are a beautiful, chaotic whirlwind. Between the sleepless nights, constant feedings, and learning the ropes of caring for a tiny human, feeling tired is a given. But what if your exhaustion feels deeper than that? What if it’s a crushing, can’t-get-off-the-couch fatigue that no amount of coffee seems to touch? This profound exhaustion is often dismissed as a normal part of the newborn phase, but it could be a signal from your body that something is off, like a Postpartum Iron Deficiency.

It’s time to reframe the conversation around postpartum recovery. This intense level of fatigue isn’t a badge of honor you have to wear silently. Your body has just accomplished the incredible feat of growing and birthing a baby, and it needs proper support to heal and recover. Acknowledging that your exhaustion might be a medical issue is a powerful act of self-care and the first step toward reclaiming your energy and well-being. You deserve to feel good while you care for your new little one. 🥰

What is Iron Deficiency Anemia, Anyway? 🤔

Let’s get down to basics without making it feel like a science class. Iron is a super important mineral that your body uses to create hemoglobin, a protein in your red blood cells. Think of hemoglobin as the delivery truck for oxygen, carrying it from your lungs to every single part of your body, from your brain to your toes. When you have enough iron, your body’s oxygen delivery system runs smoothly, keeping you energized and alert.

When you don’t have enough iron, your body can’t make enough healthy red blood cells, and your oxygen delivery service slows down. This condition is known as iron deficiency anemia. With less oxygen reaching your tissues and muscles, they can’t function at their best, leaving you feeling weak, breathless, and profoundly tired. It’s a physical depletion that affects your ability to function day-to-day.

Why Are New Moms at a Higher Risk?

Pregnancy and childbirth place huge demands on a mother’s body, particularly on her iron stores. Throughout pregnancy, your baby uses your iron reserves to develop its own blood supply, and your own blood volume increases dramatically, requiring even more iron. Then comes delivery, where a good amount of blood is lost, whether you have a vaginal birth or a C-section. This combination creates a perfect storm for depleted iron levels.

The depletion doesn’t stop after the baby arrives. If you are breastfeeding, your body continues to give iron to your baby through your milk, further dipping into your personal supply. If you had pregnancies close together or went into your pregnancy with already low iron levels, your risk is even greater. It’s no wonder so many new moms find themselves running on empty after giving birth.

Spotting the Sneaky Symptoms of Low Iron

The most common symptom of iron deficiency is exhaustion, but it’s far from the only one. Many of the signs are subtle and can be easily mistaken for the general stress of having a newborn. Paying close attention to your body can help you connect the dots and realize there might be more going on. You might notice things like looking unusually pale, feeling short of breath just from walking up the stairs, or experiencing heart palpitations.

Other physical and mental signs can point to low iron as well. Are your hands and feet always cold? Are your nails brittle or your hair shedding more than usual? Some people even get strange cravings to eat non-food items like ice or dirt, a condition called pica. Mentally, you might experience brain fog, an inability to concentrate, or increased irritability, which can sometimes be mistaken for or worsen postpartum mood challenges. 🧠

The Simple Step to Getting Answers: A Blood Test

Figuring out if low iron is the cause of your symptoms is surprisingly straightforward. The only way to know for sure is through a simple blood test ordered by your doctor or naturopathic doctor. This test, often called a complete blood count (CBC) and an iron panel, measures key markers like your hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Most importantly, it should check your ferritin levels.

Ferritin is the protein that stores iron in your body, so your ferritin level gives the best picture of your body’s total iron reserves. You can have normal hemoglobin but still have very low ferritin, meaning you’re on the fast track to anemia. At your postpartum check-up, be your own advocate. Don’t let your doctor dismiss your extreme fatigue as “normal.” Specifically ask for a blood test to check your iron and ferritin levels so you can get clear answers.

Bouncing Back: Boosting Your Iron Levels 🌿

Once you have a diagnosis, you can start taking steps to replenish your iron stores and get your energy back! A great place to begin is with your diet. Focus on incorporating iron-rich foods into your meals every day. Animal sources like lean red meat, poultry, and fish contain heme iron, which is the most easily absorbed by your body. Plant-based sources, known as non-heme iron, are found in foods like beans, lentils, tofu, spinach, and fortified cereals.

To help your body absorb that plant-based iron more effectively, pair it with a food high in Vitamin C. Think about adding bell peppers to your bean chili, squeezing lemon juice over your spinach salad, or having a small glass of orange juice with your fortified breakfast cereal. For many new moms, diet alone isn’t enough to correct a deficiency, and a doctor will likely recommend an oral iron supplement to build your stores back up more quickly. 🍊

When to Consider Advanced Support like IV Therapy

Sometimes, oral iron supplements just don’t cut it. They can be slow to work, and some people experience unpleasant side effects like constipation or an upset stomach, making it difficult to take them consistently. If you are struggling with side effects, have an underlying digestive issue that prevents proper absorption, or your iron levels are critically low, there are other options available.

Intravenous (IV) iron therapy is an effective way to raise your iron levels quickly and safely. This method delivers iron directly into your bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system completely. This allows for 100% absorption and can lead to a much faster improvement in symptoms. A discussion with your healthcare provider can help determine if you are a good candidate for this type of treatment to help you feel revitalized and fully present for the beautiful journey of motherhood.