Parents Need Love

POP’S POV: Roadtrip Round Up: Fun I Discovered This Summer

freewarren — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Growing to learn that there is so much joy to be discovered on the other side of spontaneity. I am quick to let folks know what I will not be doing. I prefer to be at home and try my hardest to avoid large crowds—it just isn’t my jam. However, a few weekends ago, a few friends and their children flew into town, and that turned into one of the most unplanned yet adventurous weekends my family and I have ever had—crowds and all.

It was a long weekend, so we ended up firing up the grill one day, doing Disney another, and spending the remainder of the weekend taking a road trip to Sequoia National Park in Tulare County, California. This was going to be our first road trip with the kids, and the commute was about four hours. With two children under three, you can imagine what was going through my mind as we were loading up the car to hit the road.

Before our children, my wife and I would go on road trips all the time. This time was going to be different—but little did I know it would be different in the best way.

Disney provided me with a bonding experience with my family—my daughter specifically—that I didn’t know I needed, but one that changed my entire perspective and approach to parenting, especially when it comes to going places I don’t necessarily enjoy.

Seeing the joy on my daughter’s face as we went on rides and met some of her favorite Disney characters really made me feel warm inside. The number of times we stood in line and boarded Dumbo—we should’ve reserved the ride just for ourselves for the day. Jackson would get off and say, “Again, Daddy,” and that we did.

Before our children, my wife and I would go on road trips all the time. This time was going to be different—but little did I know it would be different in the best way.

Minnie Mouse is her absolute favorite character, and seeing her meet Minnie and engage by blowing kisses, giving the tightest little hug, and telling her how much she loved her was the sweetest. The day at Disney was long and intense, but I made it to the car and got in a nap, which gave me the refuel I needed to power through.

I don’t know what Walt Disney has pumping through the atmosphere, but it may just be the happiest place on earth. That day was amazing, and we’ll definitely be back for another round of good times.

The road trip to Sequoia National Park was much smoother than expected. The views in the mountains were absolutely breathtaking. After paying to enter the park, you’re provided with a map—because once you arrive, there’s no cellular service until you reach the information centers or your lodging.

It was quite the experience (and a challenge) navigating without Siri. You had to learn the terrain and rely on the map.

The food wasn’t my favorite—I’ll charge that to the experience. Sequoia isn’t known for fine dining, but it is known for its stunning, gigantic trees and untouched wilderness.

We visited the General Sherman Tree, which is the largest living tree in the world by volume—275 feet tall and about 2,200 years old. We also explored Moro Rock, the Tunnel Log, and King’s Canyon.

As the expedition came to a close and we were exiting the park, we saw a bear and some deer—which was amazing to witness up close in their natural habitat.

After such an adventurous weekend, I learned that there is beauty in impulsiveness. Sometimes you have to just get up and go—have an idea, no concrete plan, and let it flow.

I stepped outside of my comfort zone, and it rewarded me with some of the best memories I’ve made with my family while experiencing places and things I thought I wouldn’t enjoy. We had a time last night!

Road Trip Essentials

1. Avis

It was quite the experience (and a challenge) navigating without Siri. You had to learn the terrain and rely on the map.

The food wasn’t my favorite—I’ll charge that to the experience. Sequoia isn’t known for fine dining, but it is known for its stunning, gigantic trees and untouched wilderness.

As the expedition came to a close and we were exiting the park, we saw a bear and some deer—which was amazing to witness up close in their natural habitat.

After such an adventurous weekend, I learned that there is beauty in impulsiveness. Sometimes you have to just get up and go—have an idea, no concrete plan, and let it flow.

Road Trip Essentials

1. Avis

“You get a car! You get a car! You get a car!” Avis is my preferred choice when it comes to vehicle rental. If you know, you know—and you see what I just did there! As a loyal customer, I have preferred status, which allows me to get free upgrades, discounted add-ons, and overall rental cars at promotional rates. One of the best perks is the expedited check-in on the app to get you in and out of the facility in a flash, and when managing a family of four, this perk has become a gold standard for us.

2. Airbnb

Airbnb always comes through when I’m seeking lodging options while out of town. It offers more flexibility than hotels, home-like amenities, and one-of-a-kind experiences like the cabin we stayed in while visiting Sequoia National Park. Airbnb is always my top choice for places to stay when I’m looking for a home away from home.

3. American Express – The Platinum Card

My Platinum Amex is my right-hand man when it comes to travel—the perks are unmatched! From the purchase protection of up to $50K per year, travel insurance, and car rental loss and damage protection when I hit the road, I make sure it’s within reach to ensure smooth sailing, driving, or flying.

4. HOKA – Clifton 10

These shoes are made for walking… running, and even hiking too! My HOKA Men’s Clifton 10s have me walking on sunshine—and yes, it feels good! The Clifton 10s are extremely comfortable and great for everyday, and they caught me by surprise holding me up between pushing strollers and climbing hills I did not sign up for. I am definitely the father that advises comfort for the family activities.

5. Apple Watch

With all the hats I wear between home life and work life, I’m always on the go and can’t always find the time to manage routine. However, I still try to be intentional about my health and fitness, and the Apple Watch has proven to be the best way to help me stay on top of my game. With heart rate monitoring, workout tracking, and activity rings, I am able to see what I’m accomplishing when I’m not exactly in the gym. At this point, all of my parenting experience has to count as working me out — and this helps me build that argument in data.

Please Don’t Judge Me: Anonymous Confessions About Pregnancy and Parenting

freewarren — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 15:01:00 +0000

Once the doctors place that slippery baby on your chest, we have a tendency to forget all of the moments that made it possible. The morning sickness, the discomfort, the irritability. Even the arduous labor you just endured becomes an afterthought. All of the gratitude may mean when we recount the stories of pregnancies, we leave out some of the more gruesome details. But in the effort of transparency, truth, and memory, we spoke to moms and dads to get the real tea about what it means to carry and birth a child. Check out their raw, unfiltered, and completely anonymous stories below.

Everyone’s in Your Business

Mom, 35 — First child, still expecting

“I was caught off guard when I started showing. I popped overnight, and that brought on a wave of gleeful strangers. I’m a bit of an introvert and tend to mask behind a resting bitch face, but apparently, a baby bump and the so-called pregnancy glow canceled that out. I went from wearing my invisibility cloak to feeling like I had a neon sign that said, Ask me about the most intimate parts of my life. That was a huge adjustment. I know most people mean well, but the ‘Are you sure it’s not twins?’ and ‘What are you having?’ or ‘When are you due?’ comments can be draining—especially for someone like me.

One of the most unexpected physical changes was the gas, and not just regular gas, but trapped gas. I didn’t even know that was a thing until I spent a week in misery and ended up asking ChatGPT if I could die from it. Gas-X, yoga, position changes, massages… nothing worked. I even considered using the Frida Windi on myself at one point.

I was also surprised by the pelvic pain and pressure. I expected heaviness in the sense of a belly feeling like a backpack worn on the front. But the pulling sensation and internal pressure—especially in the later stages—felt strange. I tried a belly band, but baby hated it: kicking, rolling, punching the entire time I wore it. It was weird but also kind of fascinating…

…Which brings me to the last point. I didn’t expect to be so deeply in love with someone I haven’t even met. I feel like I’ve known this baby my whole life. I can sense what calms them, what agitates them. I can almost imagine their face. My heart is so full as I anxiously wait for baby’s arrival.”

Things Can Get Messy

Mom, 37 — Two children, 1 year and 4 years old

My second pregnancy was nothing like my first. The only symptom of my first pregnancy was that I couldn’t stand the taste of water for a few weeks. With my second, I was miserable during that first trimester. Everything and everyone got on my nerves. The smell of foods I’d once loved made me nauseated and irritated. And then there was the poop.

One day, I decided to take my then two-year-old son to the park. I fed him and myself and walked out into the hot sun to give him some fresh air. Ten minutes after we got there, I realized I had to use the bathroom. But we’d just gotten there and I didn’t want to deprive my toddler, so I tried to hold it. I didn’t know that this pregnancy would mean holding it was no longer an option. Sadly, I came to this realization too late.

I threw my son in his stroller and started to make my way home. But with each step, poop started exiting my body and sliding down my leg. So gross, so humbling. That five-minute walk home was one to remember.

Labor Takes Time + Bonding Can Be A Challenge

Dad, 33 — One child, 9 months

“It’s ironic because literally we were at the baby shower and [my wife’s] homegirl was like, ‘They don’t talk about this but girl, you know it’s on and popping when you take a shit and throwing up at the same time.’ She just told us. If she didn’t tell me that, I would have really been freaking out.

We didn’t have our baby until Monday, but my wife went into labor on Friday. Our doula at the time told us we didn’t have to rush to the hospital. My wife didn’t even call and tell nobody. Her water broke on Friday. She tried to go to work on Saturday. She went to brunch. Having a time! I’m like, ‘You’re about to have a baby!’ She just threw a pad on; she’s constantly leaking. That was crazy. I never knew that’s how it went. I thought it was just a splash and stuff just start hitting the fan. But it’s a whole process, a build-up.”

Additionally…

“Also, a challenge I had never considered—but found myself experiencing—was bonding with my daughter. When she first arrived, she wanted her mother—only. This created tension in our house because I felt unable to support my wife in the way she needed and deserved. She always had to be present—especially for feedings and bedtime—since our daughter was breastfeeding and hadn’t adapted to the bottle.

It also made me feel undesired by my child. I wanted her to feel safe and comfortable with me immediately and I hadn’t anticipated that she might not feel instantly connected to me. It took time—but eventually, our bond developed naturally. That moment felt celebratory for me.”

You’re Seeing Things

Mom, 35 — One child, 2 years old

My midwife warned me to write down everyone’s number who said they would help because if you don’t get enough sleep, you’re going to start hallucinating. And there were a few times when I got there.

Mom, 37 — Two children, 4 and 1 years old

I had a hallucination in the hospital. When my daughter was born, she looked so much like my sister. One time I looked at her before I picked her up to nurse, and I really thought I was feeding my little sister.

POP’S POV: Reclaiming My Time – Baby Girl’s First Day of School

freewarren — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Feelings, so deep in my feelings! A new chapter of parenting unlocked—my baby girl is heading to preschool. With Jackson currently in the care of my mother-in-law during the workday, I can say I’m going to be fine with her attending preschool, but deep down, I know this will be different. I’m going to cry in the car! I am entrusting the well-being of my child essentially in the hands of strangers—a certified group—but the sentiments remain the same. Because when it comes to my children, please do not let it come to my children.

With maternity leave and baby bonding time coming to a close, and my wife heading back to work, my son being transitioned to mother-in-law’s care, and Jackson headed to the schoolhouse, the home will be empty and quiet during the day. Wait a minute—is it all bad? What did Auntie Maxine say? “Reclaiming my time!” Don’t get me wrong, I have enjoyed having a full house around the clock, but let’s get back to the program—or start a new one!

With this newfound free time, here’s one of the ways I plan to maximize it. For starters, I hope to be able to get more accomplished around the house. Between the never-ending snacking (and leaving remnants of said snacks everywhere), accidental spills, bathroom breaks outside of the toilet, and the landscape of toys covering the floor—keeping your home pristine with a toddler as an occupant is an urban legend. To be able to clean an area of the house and it remain that way for an extended period of time will feel so good to me, even if only for eight hours. I will be able to take care of daily household chores uninterrupted, like taking out the trash and recyclables without accounting for my little’s whereabouts.

With toddlers, there is a lot of “drop everything and do this for me now,” and to avoid an absolute meltdown—or crash out personally—I bust a move. But not now, since the kid is going to be in school! I plan to create a meal calendar and meal prep for each week so that breakfast and dinner will be simpler. At the end of a workday, trying to determine what to eat, preparing the meal, feeding everyone, and the clean-up is all so much. Using the time to prepare will streamline the evening routine by at least an hour or better. It will be amazing to just be able to get things done!

Home improvement and DIY projects are also a top priority for me in my pursuit of freedom while the kid is in school. I thoroughly enjoy projects around the house, no matter if I am building, repairing, or creating—something I discovered within the last two years or so. I can say it’s in my blood; the majority of the men in my family are contractors. I recently repainted and sealed my desk, which took me about a week to do because of the small increments of time I had available per day to actively complete it. My next project I plan to tackle is landscaping on my patio. I want to remove the current stone ledgers beneath my fence and extend the fence lower to the ground by installing an additional panel, sealing off the dirt, and installing landscaping stones. Luckily, with Jackson heading to school, I’ll be able to get started and complete the project sooner rather than later.

My baby girl is heading to school, and as anxiety-inducing and nerve-wracking as the thought is, there is a silver lining that I initially didn’t realize. With this change, I am able to recover a bit of time for myself and do something for myself. I can relax and recharge with my free time in a way that works best for me.

When getting things done around the house, here are three stores that always have what I need to get the job done:

1. Sam’s Club -Clorox Clean-Up All-Purpose Cleaner + Bleach, Original Spray + Refill

As a self-proclaimed “Do it all” Dad I am an avid Sam’s Club member. Sam’s Club feels like it has the best prices on everything in bulk. I swear by Clorox Clean up all purpose cleaner and bleach original spray and refill for only $16.48! That’s equal to about five refills for a fraction of the price if purchased individually.

2. Costco – 50-Stem Red Roses

When I want to use my free time to plan a sweet surprise for my wife, Costco has the best deal on long-stem roses! You can get 50 long-stem roses for $45.00. Dad Gang, you can never say I didn’t put you on!

3. Home Depot – ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Compact Cut-Off Tool (Tool Only)

I can always count on Home Depot to have everything I need, no matter the size or complexity of my project. My most recent purchase was a Ryobi 18-volt cordless compact cut-off tool! I ordered it and was able to grab it curbside within only a few hours of ordering.

4. Lowes – GRO-WELL Proven Organics 4-lb 10-2-8 Organic Natural Citrus and Avocado Plant Food (Tree)

As the “All-Purpose” Papa, Lowe’s always has my gardening needs covered! Just recently, it was time to fertilize my citrus trees, so I had to make that trip to grab the GRO-WELL organic plant food for trees. It gives my orange and lemon trees the boost of nutrients needed to make for a great harvest come next spring.

5. Habitat for Humanity Restore

Habitat for Humanity ReStore is my go-to for discounted brand-new appliances (open box for the most part), cabinets, or furniture that I want to revive and resell! You can visit the actual locations nearest you or stalk the Instagram, like I do, for great deals and the latest inventory. My most recent grab was a used miter saw and table combo for $400. Retail brand-new is about $700 for the same items!

How to Embark on a Successful Breastfeeding Journey

freewarren — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 15:00:00 +0000

When Imade Williams’ son was born, doctors were concerned about some of the numbers that came back from his bloodwork. They told her if the levels didn’t improve, they would need to admit him to the NICU. Whether it was blood sugar or his overall weight, breastmilk was the solution. Williams’ son had already latched. Still, in an effort to get her baby home as quickly as possible, she began supplementing her breastmilk with formula.

“I had the colostrum,” Williams said. “I was pumping. I was just trying to do whatever I needed to do.” Her efforts paid off. His levels stabilized, and she was able to stop using formula.

Williams would go on to nurse her son for the first two years and three weeks of his life, occasionally supplementing with formula when necessary. Now, looking back, she attributes the success of her journey to a dedicated team of people and some products that proved vital in her breastfeeding journey.

“I was able to check my supply by going to the breastfeeding support group,” Williams explained. “They had one at the hospital where I delivered. There, we would weigh the baby before and after we breastfed them to see how much milk they drank.”

To keep her supply up, she nursed and pumped on a schedule—often one after the other.

In addition to her support group, Williams also enlisted the help of a breastfeeding coach. Her coach gave Williams a list of products to streamline her breastfeeding journey even further.

She recommended:

Coconut Oil: Instead of using lanolin cream to soothe chafed nipples, Williams’ coach suggested coconut oil. “Coconut oil is natural,” Williams explained. “It’s safe for babies to ingest. If I had an irritation, I used that.”

A Nursing Bra: If you’re going to be nursing every couple of hours, you’re going to need easy access. A nursing bra that allows you and your baby to get to your nipple quickly is the way to go.

Reusable Nursing Pads: In addition to keeping your clothes from being soiled by breastmilk, nursing pads can guard against skin irritation. But be sure to use the right ones. “In the beginning, I would go to sleep in those pads,” Williams said. “That’s a big no-no. I ended up almost getting mastitis. My midwife was telling me you’re not supposed to wear anything. And if you do, use the reusable nursing pads that you can wash.”

Wearable Pump: If your pump can’t move with you, be prepared to be stuck to the wall while you wait for your milk to come down. As a mother, time to be sedentary can be hard to come by. A wearable breast pump allows you to take care of the never-ending tasks while stockpiling your milk for your little one later.

In addition to the products you buy, Williams also stressed proper nutrition and hydration. “Eat at least three meals a day—healthy food. Your body needs that and a lot of water to produce milk.”

Then there’s the willpower aspect of it all. “Keep trying,” Williams advises. “The more that you do it, the more milk you produce.” If you’re struggling on your own, Williams said don’t be afraid to seek out the resources that are designed to help.