Healthy Mom Life

Category: Wellness

  • Prenatal Lap Swimming for Beginners: Why I’m Obsessed in my Third Trimester (+ A Simple Swim Workout to Try)

    Prenatal Lap Swimming for Beginners: Why I’m Obsessed in my Third Trimester (+ A Simple Swim Workout to Try)

    I don’t know about you, but it feels like spring is just zooming by! At almost 30 weeks pregnant, it’s really hitting me how quickly times flies. Before I know it, baby will be making their grand appearance.

    About a month ago, in a very impulsive fashion, I showed up to my local pool at 26 weeks pregnant with cheap goggles from Amazon, a swimsuit that was doing its absolute best, and approximately zero idea what I was doing.

    And it was one of the best decisions I’ve made this entire pregnancy.

    I dabbled in swimming laps back in university (about ten years and now three kids ago) and I grew up on a lake, but I wouldn’t exactly call myself a seasoned lap swimmer. Lately though, with my belly growing, my back aching, and just wanting to feel athletic again, I kept seeing swimming come up as one of the best exercises you can do during pregnancy.

    Swimming in pregnancy is a low impact, full body cardio workout. It’s gentle on your joints (mine are definitely starting to feel the extra weight) and it’s supportive for your bump.

    So, I requested a toddler-free hour, booked a pool session, packed a bag, and just… went.

    Here’s what happened, why I’m already planning my next session, a simple beginner prenatal swim workout you can try, and hopefully, most importantly, the push to get you in the pool too! Even if you’ve never swum laps before.

    My First Lap Swim While Pregnant

    Honestly, I had zero expectations going in. I gave myself the goal of just swimming slowly in the pool, back and forth. If I wanted to leave after 5 minutes, I could.

    Instead, I stayed for 40 minutes! And I really loved every second of it.

    I was definitely a fish out of water (pun intended), and it took me a few laps before a front crawl started to feel even remotely natural. Coordinating breathing, arms, and legs took some getting used to.

    But the beauty of lap swimming is that you can switch strokes anytime and rest at the end of each lap. There is always a built-in reset.

    And yes, it’s a tougher workout than it looks. My arms, legs, and glutes were feeling it the next day. But in a good way! The kind that reminds you your body is strong.

    For the first time since before this pregnancy, I actually felt a bit like me again.

    To say I was hooked would be an understatement.

    Why Swimming in Pregnancy is so Beneficial

    I have a Master’s degree in Health Sciences and over a decade of experience in clinical research, so I can’t help but look at the evidence when I try something new. I also have so little time, that I want to know what I’m doing is going to be the best use of it.

    And the research on swimming during pregnancy is genuinely compelling.

    Here’s what stands out to me:

    • It’s low impact but high reward. Water supports your body weight, giving your joints a break while still providing an effective cardiovascular and strength workout.
    • It can reduce swelling. The gentle pressure of the water can improve circulation and reduce puffiness—especially in your legs and feet. I always feel noticeably lighter afterward.
    • It supports your back. The buoyancy takes pressure off your spine, which is a huge relief when you’re carrying extra weight up front. This is what initially caught my attention and drew me to swimming in the first place.
    • It’s safe throughout pregnancy. For most low-risk pregnancies, swimming is considered one of the safest forms of exercise from the first trimester right through to the end. As always though — check with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if this is new for you. I had really wanted to do a workout where I wouldn’t have to scale down or second guess how safe the movement was for me.

    The Part Where I Was Intimidated (And You Might Be Too)

    Ok – walking into a lap pool as a beginner is intimidating. Everyone looks like they know what they’re doing. There are different lanes. There are people training for triathlons.

    It’s easy to get in your head and think that you don’t belong. But, I’m here to tell you that you do! You 100% do.

    Here’s what I want you to know:

    **NO ONE CARES**

    I mean that in the best possible, kindest way. Everyone in that pool is focused on their own workout. The slow lane exists for you and for me, and there is absolutely no shame in it. Now that I’m over 30, I find that I’m genuinely enjoying new experiences where I’m a complete beginner. The older we get, it seems like the less we’re placed in those scenarios. So, embrace being the beginner!

    The first lap will feel hard and probably pretty awkward. The second one will feel slightly less hard and awkward. By the fifth one, you’ll start to find a rhythm. And by the time you’re towelling off and heading to your car, you’ll already be thinking about when you can come back and do it all over again.

    I promise.

    My Summer Vision Board – it includes Lane Simming!

    What to Bring (The Beginner Checklist)

    Swimming is great because you really don’t need all that much. You might even have some of what you need already. Here are some suggestions if you want a place to start.

    Here’s what I bought from Amazon:

    1. Maternity Swimsuit: something comfy and cute that I could swim laps in. I bought this one, and I really like it.
    1. Goggles: These definitely make it easier to do a front crawl. Also, you’ll feel like a real swimmer. I bought these goggles and have been happy with them.
    2. Swim Cap: I have long hair, and I wanted to protect it from the chemicals in the pool as much as possible. Bonus, swim caps help prevent water from entering your ears. These are the caps I bought, and so far so good.
    3. Leave in Conditioner: Again, in an effort to protect my hair from getting dry, I coat the ends of my hair with leave in conditioner.

    Here’s what I grabbed from home:

    1. A gym bag to keep my change of clothes in and a towel
    2. A water bottle (obvious)
    3. My Apple watch to track laps and time

    That’s it. You really don’t need much.

    The Beginner Prenatal Lap Workout I’d Start With

    This is the loose structure of a workout that has started to become my “go-to” as I’ve now gone swimming consistently every weekend.

    I like how the swim stroke changes to keep things interesting. Adjust everything based on how you feel: some days the pool will feel easy, other days it won’t, and both are completely valid.

    As always: get your healthcare provider’s clearance before trying this.

    Warm-Up (5-10 minutes):

    Please do not skip warming up. I jumped into swimming laps one time, and I just felt so cramped and tired on my first lap.

    You can do some light stretching before you get into the pool: think arms, legs, and back. Then spend a few minutes in the water getting comfortable. If the pool has a shallow end, you can walk around a few times, loosen your hips, move your arms through the water. Just focus on getting some blood flow throughout your body.

    Then: 2 gentle lengths of your choice — I like doing a slow freestyle (froggy swims). Keep in mind that if you have pelvic pain, this might make it worse, so listen to your body. For me, I really focus on going as slow as I can and getting comfortable with breathing in the water.

    Main Set:

    I like to call this workout the 3×3. You start with a flutter board and focus on your kicking. You do a lap to the deep end and back. Take a break and then you do a front crawl. Again, you do a lap to the deep end of the pool and back. Take another break. Finally, you do a back stroke to the end of the pool and back. Break again. Repeat these 2 more times or until you’d like to end your pool session.

    Circuit:

    Flutter board length of pool and back

    (Rest)

    Front crawl length of pool and back

    (Rest)

    Back stroke length of pool and back

    (Rest)

    *Repeat for a total of 3 times or until you’re finished your workout*

    Cool Down:

    End your session with another 2 gentle lengths of your choice. Then I like to do some static stretching in the shallow end. I do arm stretches like shoulder and triceps stretching while I walk around. Then I end with some quad stretching and some dynamic hip openers.

    This pool session ends up being around 20 minutes depending on the amount of time you spend stretching, how many circuits you do, and how fast you are.

    Quick Tips and Take Away:

    1. There is usually a sign posted telling you the direction of swimming for the lanes. Don’t make my mistake and read the sign backwards. Accidently touching the toes of the person you’re sharing a lane with is very uncomfortable. Generally, follow the direction of whoever is already in your lane.
    2. Going slow is better. Go slow to build your proficiency and skills. Burning yourself out going superfast with improper form impresses no one.
    3. Rest as long as you need to. There’s no shame in hanging out at the end of the lanes. You can always let someone faster pass you.
    4. Remember that you won’t be a pro after the first session, but you will get better with practice. Everyone starts somewhere.
    5. When you leave the pool, please take your time. I find the buoyancy of the water can shift baby’s position and my back also needs to adjust to the weight of baby again. Going slow up the stairs helps with that adjustment.

    Will I go back?

    Yes! I’ve got my next session booked and I plan on going as long as I can into this pregnancy. These swim sessions have been so helpful for me to feel athletic, to feel like I’m doing something for me, and overall have been very meditative.

    I like that I’m showing my kids that mommy has something she does for fun outside of the house. I also like that they get to spend some time with their dad, which is something that will become even more routine for them once #3 gets here.

    If you’ve been on the fence about trying swimming during your pregnancy — or honestly at any point in your mom life — I really hope this nudges you off it. You don’t have to be fast. You don’t have to be graceful. You just have to show up.

    The slow lane will be there waiting for you. And so will I. 💙

    Goggle marks on my eyes and soaking wet hair. Just feeling proud of myself for doing it!
  • Why I’m Cutting Back on Added Sugar During Pregnancy (And How I’m Doing it Realistically)

    Why I’m Cutting Back on Added Sugar During Pregnancy (And How I’m Doing it Realistically)

    For those of us who live in Ontario, it may come as a bit of a surprise considering the weather is still absolutely awful, but the 20th of March marked the first official day of Spring!

    Some days still feel a little wintery, but the birds are starting to chirp, the day is longer, and I’m starting to think about what I’m planting in my garden. Warmer weather here we come!

    To me, spring always feels like New Years Resolutions season 2.0. It’s a chance to reflect on your January goals and pare down what’s working, what’s not, and what needs adjusting. Maybe the whole 5 days a week in the gym has been too much of a slog, and you need to pivot to something different. Running outside perhaps? Or maybe you chickened out of signing up for that art class you said you’d do? Try again! Make spring your 2026 refinement season.

    This spring, I’m making one big adjustment: I’m cutting back on added sugar.

    Why I’m Cutting Back on Added Sugar

    Please ignore my dirty mirror. It’s much harder to find the time to take cute bump photos this time around!

    For those who haven’t read my previous post, I’m currently pregnant with my third baby.

    In my past two pregnancies, I was diagnosed with Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy, a liver condition that can become dangerous for your baby if not managed carefully.

    During my second pregnancy, things escalated quickly at 37 weeks, leading to a scheduled immediate c-section. It was a stressful and overwhelming experience. And something I’m really hoping to avoid this time around.

    So now, I’m focusing on supporting my body as much as possible. Given that I want to give my liver the best chance it can have to support my pregnancy. Reducing added sugar is one of the ways I’m doing that.

    Of course, this is just my personal approach. Always check with your healthcare provider before making dietary changes during pregnancy.

    What is Added Sugar?

    Added sugar refers to sugars that are added to foods during processing or preparation, rather than naturally occurring.

    Common sources include:

    • Cane sugar
    • Corn syrup / high-fructose corn syrup
    • Honey
    • Agave
    • Syrups and sweeteners in packaged foods

    You’ll often find added sugars in:

    • Granola bars
    • Flavoured yogurt
    • Cereals
    • Baked goods
    • Sauces and dressings

    Research has linked high intake of added sugars to things like tooth decay, energy crashes, and increased risk of conditions like Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease.

    Natural Sugar vs. Added Sugar

    I’m not eliminating sugar entirely.

    Foods like fruit and milk contain natural sugars, and they also come with nutrients like fibre, protein, and vitamins.

    Instead, I’m being more mindful of my overall sugar intake—especially from processed foods.

    My 10 Tips on How to Reduce Added Sugar

    1. Have a strong “why“: Behaviour change is hard. Having a meaningful reason makes it easier to stay consistent.
    2. Plan ahead: Keep lower-sugar snacks on hand so you’re not caught off guard.
    3. Understand your triggers: For me, it’s after meals, especially lunch. I now plan alternatives like fruit, a walk, or a distraction.
    4. Expect hard days: Some days will feel easy, others won’t. That’s normal.
    5. Build a support system: Having someone to talk to makes a huge difference.
    6. Out of sight, out of mind: If it’s not visible, you’re less likely to reach for it.
    7. Read labels: Sugar hides in more foods than you’d expect.
    8. Be flexible: No one likes to say no to birthday cake on their friend’s birthday. Enjoy special occasions without guilt.
    9. Pay attention to how you feel: I notice I feel more sluggish after eating a lot of added sugar. That in itself is motivating.
    10. Keep it positive: Think of this as a challenge, not a restriction.

    My Current Go-To Snacks to Reduce Added Sugar:

    Here are some of my current favourites:

    Unsweetened Applesauce

    Eggs (a complete protein with all 9 essential amino-acids)

    Greek Yogurt or Cottage Cheese with a small amount of maple syrup and peanut butter

    Fruit (especially oranges, pineapple, and frozen berries with milk)

    Cheese for protein and satiety

    Electrolytes for hydration and subtle sweetness

    Pickles or savoury snacks to curb sweet cravings

    What I’ve Learned So Far

    This has been eye-opening.

    Before this, I would have said I eat very healthy—but I didn’t realize how much added sugar was sneaking into my day through snacks and small “pick-me-ups.”

    Now, I’m focusing more on:

    • Protein-rich foods
    • Balanced meals
    • Being intentional about what I eat

    Final Thoughts: Try a “Reduced Sugar Spring”

    Reducing added sugar isn’t about perfection—it’s about awareness.

    It’s about noticing how your body feels, making small adjustments, and building habits that actually work for your life.

    So if you’re looking for a reset, consider this your invitation:

    👉 Try a Reduced Sugar Spring

    Start small, stay flexible, and see how you feel.

  • I Didn’t Expect This During My Third Pregnancy: Anxiety

    I Didn’t Expect This During My Third Pregnancy: Anxiety

    Is Anxiety During Pregnancy Normal?

    Anxiety during pregnancy is actually very common. Many expectant mothers experience moments of worry, racing thoughts, or feeling overwhelmed — especially if they’ve had complications in previous pregnancies. The challenge can be knowing when these feelings are normal pregnancy worries and when they might be signs of prenatal anxiety.

    I’m pregnant with my third baby! Since this is my third “rodeo”, a lot of things have felt very familiar, but what I didn’t expect this time around was the anxiety that came with it.

    We’re over the moon excited to be expanding our family and I daydream daily about the full table I’ll have filled with love. However, I’ve been struggling with moments of feeling overwhelmed and just a general sense of unease that’s making it hard to lean into the bittersweet moments of what will be my last pregnancy.

    My Experience with Pregnancy Anxiety:

    For me, I’ve had intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy for my first two pregnancies (let me know if you’d like me to write a post about my experiences with it!). Because I’ve had it before, I know I’ll likely get it again. That makes it hard not to be hypersensitive to every little itch on my hands and feet. One small twinge can send me into a thought spiral of “this is it, I have it again” and my brain refuses to listen to reason. I.e. like it’s pretty early to be getting it, your skin is just dry, the itching went away etc.. etc.. Also, I will be having a C-Section and the idea of another surgery and recovery is something that does scare me.

    And oh man, the number of “what if…?” questions that pop into my head have been really tough. There are so many horror stories online and there truly is a balance to staying informed versus being overburdened with the worst-case scenarios.

    Some days are really good, especially when the February sun is out and the birds are chirping. Other days, I’m a tightly wound ball of nerves that could have a little “menty-b” (mental breakdown) if a sad song comes on my playlist. Some country songs honestly need to be outlawed on public radio.

    In the evenings, after a long day of working full-time and running after my two littles, I also feel like the only thing my brain can focus on is worry. It’s like it says, “hey girlie, which worry from your suuuuuper long list do you want to tackle tonight? If you’re feeling up to it, we can cycle through 2! or even 3!”

    So, I’ve been asking myself, “is this normal?” And I looked into it.

    The short answer is: yes, it is.

    The long answer is: if it’s affecting you daily, there are solutions, and you’re not alone.

    So, if you’re experiencing something similar, please breathe a sigh of relief and take a relaxing nap or a bath, because everything will be ok.

    Normal Pregnancy Worry vs Prenatal Anxiety:

    Anxiety can be a big scary word that gets tossed around easily and it is a normal part of life even outside of being pregnant. But anxiety does exist on a spectrum with fluctuations being common. Pregnancy in particular, with all its hormonal shifts, sleep problems, birth anticipation, and work/life/family changes, can all contribute to feelings of anxiety and lack of control.

    However, normal pregnancy worry is often something that is transient. Meaning that it comes and goes. Today can be better than yesterday or even your afternoon can be better than your morning. Normal worry is often tied to specific triggers, like watching a particularly traumatic news segment or hearing your neighbor talk about their birth story. Further, this worry does get worse when you’re tired or stressed and you just don’t have the mental strength to overcome it or think clearly.

    Overall, normal pregnancy worry is just a small part of your day or week, it doesn’t feel like it’s consuming you or taking over your life. If you’re struggling with leaving your home, interacting with others, or ruminating for days, then it’s possible that you might have “prenatal anxiety”.

    Prenatal anxiety is persistent worry that consumes most days of your week. Often, it can result in trouble sleeping due to worry. I know sleep can be elusive during pregnancy, but this is a sleep disturbance beyond the common aches and pains of pregnancy. It is feeling constantly on edge or keyed up. Generally, with prenatal anxiety, moms-to-be report extreme difficulty in enjoying their pregnancy.

    How to Cope with Pregnancy Anxiety:

    So, if pregnancy anxiety is normal—but still overwhelming—what can you actually do about it? You can:

    1. Name the feeling: simply acknowledging that you’re feeling anxious can help you work towards feeling better.
    2. Keep a journal or diary and write down the thoughts that are causing you worry. Sometimes putting them down on paper minimizes the impact that they have.
    3. Reduce your triggers. If a certain social media account just gets you spiraling every time, no matter how good-intentioned it is, maybe it’s time to mute them or take a social media break. Honestly, we could all do this.
    4. Create a routine that you follow when you feel anxious or create a list of things that you know make you feel good. This could be calling a friend/family member, listening to music, getting some movement in, or just walking outside and breathing fresh air. Find what works specifically for you.
    5. Give yourself permission to rest. This one is hard, especially if you have other young children that you’re responsible for. But maybe, you just request an evening to yourself if you’re able to do so. Perhaps your husband does bath time, or maybe your mother-in-law bakes cookies with them? Find an hour to yourself if you can and use that time to rest and recharge.
    6. Take something off your plate. Are you feeling extra overwhelmed because trying to cook dinner with your kids screaming and crying after school is just too much? Can you sign up for a meal service? Or try meal prepping on the weekend when you have more flexibility. Let go of perfection and maybe also lean into chicken nuggets and frozen peas for a little while. Similarly, maybe the laundry just doesn’t get folded. Your family will still be able to get dressed if their clothes are in a pile. Better yet, off-load your chores to someone else. You’re growing a baby for goodness sakes!
    7. Create a happiness list. I have photos of my kids, happy TV shows, rom-com audio books and feel-good music on my rotation that I cycle through when I want a boost of dopamine. It’s also a great way to remind yourself that good things exist outside of your racing thoughts.
    8. Lean into what you can control. I believe pregnancy is particularly stressful for me because I don’t have constant feedback on how everything is going in my belly. For my situation, what I can control is my diet, exercise, and mindset. I can avoid sugar (which I’ve read can exacerbate cholestasis), and I can say positive things to myself.

    When to Talk to a Doctor:

    If you’re finding that more often than not, you’re feeling like your anxiety is taking over and the strategies above just are not working for you, it might be time to reach out to someone who can help. It’s important to know that this is something that you should not have to struggle through, there is help available and while reaching out might be the hardest step, it does not mean there is anything wrong with you or that you are less than.

    Primary care providers (or your OB/GYN) are here to support you and can provide referrals to mental health services, therapists, and in certain cases can suggest medications or treatments that will make a huge difference.

    Please reach out if you or your family is noticing that:

    • Your anxiety is increasing and does not seem to be ebbing and flowing
    • Your sleep is consistently disrupted, broken, or just “not enough”
    • You are feeling like you’re unable to cope with daily tasks, you’re ruminating for days, and things that once brought you joy no longer do.

    Asking for help does not mean you’re weak or broken. It actually means you are strong and you care about yourself, your family, and your baby. No one should have to experience this, especially not alone, and there are solutions.

    Pregnancy Is Hard and You’re Not Alone:

    Growing a baby is tough stuff. And while a lot of it is viewed with rose coloured glasses, there are some aspects of pregnancy that are nerve-racking, scary, and confusing.

    Know that fluctuations in your mood are normal and that you’re not the only pregnant person who feels this way. But also know, that if you feel something is off and you’re really struggling or lacking support, there are people who want to help you.

    Pregnancy can be beautiful, but it can also be overwhelming and uncertain.

    If you’re feeling anxious, worried, or just not like yourself right now, please know that you’re not alone. Many moms experience this—even during pregnancies they deeply wanted and planned.

    Give yourself grace. You’re doing something incredible.

    Sources:

    • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
    • March of Dimes – Mental health during pregnancy
    • Postpartum Support International – Perinatal anxiety information
  • In Defense of the Lazy Mom (Especially at Christmas)

    In Defense of the Lazy Mom (Especially at Christmas)

    Fa la la la laaaaa

    Every year around this time, my social media feed fills up with images of moms who seem to have mastered Christmas. Perfectly coordinated pajamas. Homemade hot chocolate bombs. Gingerbread houses that look like they were designed by professional architects. Elves on shelves living their best (and most mischievous) lives. And I love the idea of it all. Everything looks and seems perfect.

    But then I play the comparison game, and I realize I don’t even have an elf on the shelf. My Christmas gifts will most all likely be bought in the three days before Christmas. And the baking I do will be a Pinterest versus reality type situation.

    I’ve noticed that I start to feel the little mom-guilt itch kick in, and I keep thinking I should be doing more. As mom, aren’t I the one responsible for creating the loving childhood memories my kids will look back on fondly? What if everything I’m trying hard to do just doesn’t cut it?

    But I’ve decided that needs to change. I’m embracing my inner “lazy mom” — and I think she might be the best version of me yet.

    What Being a “Lazy Mom” Really Means

    Let’s be clear: when I say lazy, I don’t mean careless or useless. I mean calm. Intentional. Grounded.

    Being a “lazy mom” doesn’t mean you love your kids any less. It means you’ve decided to stop running yourself into the ground trying to prove how much you love them. It’s choosing presence over perfection, connection over chaos, and laughter over lists.

    Because honestly? Our kids don’t care about themed wrapping paper or hand-painted ornaments. They care about us — the tone of our voice, the way we smile when they show us something, the moments when we’re really there.

    The Pressure to Be the “Perfect Mom”

    Somehow, motherhood — especially during the holidays — has become a performance (and in some circles, a competition).

    We’re expected to create traditions that are magical, meals that are 5 courses, and memories that dazzle on camera. There’s this unspoken rule that a “good mom” goes above and beyond at Christmas. And does it all with perfect makeup, a bouncy blow-out, and the cutest clothes.

    Who are we trying to impress? My 3-year-old wears his pants backward and takes his shirt off the first chance he gets.

    I know behind every perfect Instagram photo or TikTok reel is a mom who probably hasn’t sat down all day. Who’s exhausted. Who’s trying so hard to make it special that she’s missing it while it’s happening. Who probably feels like she’s not being appreciated for all the work she’s putting in.

    And if we’re being honest — none of that pressure is what Christmas is about.

    “Why is this so important? Christmas is about more than just ribbons and bows.”

    Cindy Lou Who

    The Magic of Letting Go

    When I vocalized the permission to do less and be lazy, everything changed. A weight (one Santa’s bag of presents worth) I didn’t know I was carrying disappeared.

    This year, instead of baking four kinds of cookies, all iced with intricate designs. We’re making one batch — maybe it will be the pre-cut kind from the grocery store or maybe it will be homemade. We’ll see how we feel. My kids can overload, *cough*, I mean decorate them with so much icing they become inedible and I won’t be able to give them to anyone outside our family, but we will have the best time. This is what I want to remember: not everyone swooning over the pretty cookies, but the little giggles we had making them.

    Maybe we won’t wear the adorable matching Christmas pajamas, and everyone can wear what they want. For my son, that means clothing optional and my daughter will probably wear something with a unicorn or a cat. It will still be a cozy, messy, joy-filled Christmas morning that feels more us than anything.

    And here’s the thing I’m realizing when you stop chasing perfection or the approval of other, you make space for connection with those who matter the most.

    Your Kids Don’t Need the “Most” — They Need You

    Our kids aren’t keeping score or setting expectations. They won’t remember whether the wrapping paper and bow matched or if the tree was decorated just so. They’ll remember the feeling of the holidays. The warmth of being together, the laughter echoing through the house, the peace of a mom who wasn’t rushing, huffing, or worrying.

    So maybe being a “lazy mom” isn’t lazy at all. Maybe it’s brave. Maybe it’s choosing to step off the hamster wheel of comparison and say, “what I’m doing is enough. I am enough.”

    “Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. I think maybe Christmas means a little bit more.”

    Cindy Lou Who

    This Christmas, Let’s Redefine “Lazy”

    Let’s choose rest and relaxation. Let’s choose joy. Let’s choose messy bun imperfection.

    Let’s buy the desserts, skip the matching outfits, and say yes to the perfectly imperfect real-life moments that make this season meaningful.

    Because at the end of the day, our kids won’t remember how picture-perfect it looked — they’ll remember how they felt.

    And if it felt calm, cozy, and full of love — that’s the kind of Christmas worth celebrating.

    Maybe being a lazy mom isn’t lazy at all — maybe it’s just a mom who finally knows what matters most.

  • Goal Setting for the Winter When Your Motivation is in Hibernation

    Goal Setting for the Winter When Your Motivation is in Hibernation

    The days are getting shorter, the weather is getting snowier, and honestly? All I want to do is curl with a blanket and become one with my couch.

    Winter, especially in Ontario, can be downright dreary. It’s hard to get excited about your week when the sun starts setting at 5pm. You wake up in the dark, spend your evening in the dark, and it feels like your only goal is simply surviving until spring.

    If you’re feeling like you’re coasting through the dark months of November, December, January, and February, you’re not alone. Goal setting in Spring and Summer feels effortless: people are out, events are happening, and being active outside takes zero planning. Your goals align naturally.

    Winter? Whole different vibe.

    The brightness of summer feels too far away to motivate anything long-term, and that’s totally fine and totally normal. You’re not missing out. You’re not falling behind. You’re not unmotivated. You’re in a different season, literally and emotionally.

    Here’s the truth: you can still set meaningful winter goals without having a full vision.

    Reframe Your Winter Goals: Think Smaller, Softer, and Seasonal

    Winter goals don’t need to be ambitious or life changing. They can be tiny sparks of joy woven throughout your day or “maintenance mode” habits you’re already doing well.

    And yes, obviously, many goals in winter must adapt to the weather. Training for a marathon? Amazing. Just layer up, invest in reflective gear, and expect the occasional snow day. Feeling festive? Make a goal to keep the holiday spirit alive in small ways. Want a seasonal goal that’s purely fun? Commit to a Hallmark movie every weekend for peak cozy vibes.

    This winter season can be about:

    Clarifying, not just conquering.

    Use this time to reflect on what you want, not necessarily chasing it straightaway.

    Resetting, not reinventing.

    Winter is the year’s build-in rest. Audit your pantry, refresh your wardrobe, or learn a small skill like keeping a sourdough starter alive.

    Resting, not rushing.

    Lean into the cozy. Think blankets, coffee, quiet nights, candles, and the simple gratitude of being inside while snow falls.

    Let’s rebrand winter as a natural season for gentler, softer goal setting. Release the pressure. You’re already doing better than you think.

    Continue reading below, if you’d like some actionable tips for goal setting in the winter.

    Tip 1: Start With How You Want to Feel

    When you don’t know what your goals are yet, begin with emotions instead of outcomes.

    For example:

    • “I want to feel grounded.”
    • “I want to feel calm.”
    • “I want to feel connected.”
    • “I want to feel like I’m taking small steps forward.”

    Then, turn those feelings into micro-goals.

    • Calm → 5 minutes of breathing or stretching daily
    • Connection → Text or meet one friend per week
    • Grounded → Morning journaling or evening gratitude check-ins

    Tip 2: Choose “Low-Lift” or “Micro” Goals Over Big Resolutions

    Low-lift goals require minimal effort but have a noticeable payoff.

    Examples of a low-lift goal could be:

    • Declutter one drawer or shelf per week.
    • Add one extra glass of water to your day.
    • Take a 10-minute morning walk.
    • Replace doom scrolling with reading.
    • Light a candle and stretch at night.
    • Reduce added sugar in one small way.

    Micro-goals stack up. No big overhaul needed – just tiny degrees of improvement.

    Tip 3: Create a Winter Bucket List (Even a Tiny One)

    Seasonal goals are perfect when long-term goals feel foggy. Lean into the cozy magic of winter.

    Some Ideas:

    • Try one new cozy recipe weekly.
    • Have a winter movie night (there are so many fun Christmas movies).
    • Walk outside during a snowfall. Romantic and magical.
    • Visit a local café and treat yourself to a holiday latte.
    • Do a winter craft with your kids like making an ornament.
    • Build a snowman. And why not throw in a snow angel or an impromptu snowball fight while you’re at it!

    The key to this bucket list: it needs to feel fun, doable, seasonal, and the exact opposite of a chore list. Looking for inspiration? Check out my kid-friendly Christmas bucket list:

    Download the Christmas Bucket List Here!

    Tip 4: Focus on “Maintenance Mode” Goals

    Sometimes the easiest thing to do, is to just keep doing what you’re doing. If you’ve built up a habit over the summer that you’re proud of, mark that down and make a point to keep going.

    Here are some suggested goals that aim to maintain the stability you may have already built the foundation for:

    • Keep up basic routines. Like journaling, getting your steps in, and meditation.
    • Protect your sleep. Dark months can hit your mood hard, help to prevent Seasonal Affective Disorder by getting your sleep.
    • Keep the house just organized enough. Think acceptable baseline, not perfection.
    • Support your mental health. Think going outside during the day, talking to friends, and taking vitamins.
    • Get some gentle movement in. Evening yoga or some mobility work is great during the winter. Check out YouTube for classes. Check out this mobility class from Nourish Move Love that I turn to regularly.

    These maintenance goals allow you to enter spring with energy instead of burnout.

    Tip 5: Use a Weekly Reset to Reassess What You Actually Want

    Pick a day (Sunday works well!) and check-in:

    • What worked?
    • What felt tough?
    • What lifted my mood?
    • What’s one thing I want to try next week?

    Winter is a season of reflection, so let goal setting be a conversation with yourself.

    Tip 6: Adopt the “Winter Try List” Instead of Goals

    A “try list” = no pressure to do the thing.

    What is a “try list”? It’s like a bucket list, but it focuses on things you’d maybe like to explore before fully committing to.

    Examples could be:

    • Try a new bedtime routine, like reading before bed instead of TV.
    • Try a new workout class. Finally sign up for that reformer Pilates class you’ve been eyeing.
    • Try meal-prepping 1–2 meals. Give it a try with a couple recipes rather than committing your whole week.
    • Try going to bed earlier.
    • Try going alcohol free.
    • Try marathon-style training without actually signing up.

    If it doesn’t stick? No guilt. Move on.

    Tip 7: Celebrate Micro-Accomplishments

    Winter is long, motivation is low, and every tiny win counts.

    • Went for a walk? Win.
    • Cleaned part of your house? Win.
    • Played with your kids? Win.
    • Showered on a tough day? Huge win.

    Momentum builds from the smallest sparks.

    ‘Tis the Season

    Winter goals don’t need to be grand. You really don’t have to train for that Hyrox competition, lose weight, or reinvent yourself. My own goals this season are simple: hit 8,000-10,000 steps a day, reduce my caffeine intake, and stay “unplugged” and off my phone when I’m with my kids.

    Come Spring, you’ll likely feel more clarity and motivation for something new. Until then? Grab your blanket, make a cozy Pinterest board, and just be.

    In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.

    Albert Camus
  • 7 Ways I Stopped the Negative Self-Talk Spiral (And What I Want to Model for My Kids)

    7 Ways I Stopped the Negative Self-Talk Spiral (And What I Want to Model for My Kids)

    This post is going to be a little bit more vulnerable than usual.

    Recently, I messed up. I thought something was scheduled on a certain day, so I rearranged my entire work schedule around it. I made a big deal about needing time off and asked for an accommodation that ended up mildly inconveniencing others.

    Long story short: I thought my kids’ daycare had a day off when they didn’t. I still have no idea why I even thought that, and my husband and I have been joking that I must have dreamt it.

    Sounds pretty harmless, right? And it was. But what really stuck with me was what I said to myself after I found out I was wrong. I called myself stupid, a dummy, air-headed. I completely tore myself down.

    Try not to sweat the small stuff. Life is full of mistakes.

    Even writing this out now, I realize how ridiculous it sounds. It was such a small mistake. To quote Kourtney Kardashian, “Kim, there’s people that are dying.”

    What also bothered me was realizing how I was modeling that kind of self-talk to my kids. I’d be devasted if they spoke to themselves the way I just did.

    Once that clicked, I knew I needed to change something, and fast. I was on a one-way trip to “Ruminating-All-Night-Town”, so I had to stop the spiral.

    How I Turned My Night Around

    1. Wallow… then move on

    If you need to, let yourself wallow. Sit in your self-pity for 5-10 minutes. It’s like eating too much Halloween Candy. You have a bunch after trick r’ treating and you get it out of your system. Set a timer, feel the feelings, then move on.

    2. Stop the negative self-talk

    Catch yourself in the act. Would you say that to your best friend? No? Then don’t say it to yourself. Words have power.

    3. Talk to someone

    I always call my mom. She knows how to provide comfort and perspective. In this case, she laughed, which honestly, I needed. It helped me take myself a little less seriously. If you don’t feel like talking, try journaling.

    4. Give yourself grace

    You’re human. I have two young kids (I know, I mention it a lot), and I’m running on a pretty constant sleep deficit. Mistakes are going to happen. I will make more mistakes. My husband will make mistakes. Your coworker, your neighbour, your barista, your best friend etc… will make mistakes. Own them, learn from them, and try again.

    5. Go for a walk

    This one helped the most. Moving my body helped me process everything and literally walk away from the negativity. It gave my nervous energy a purpose and cleared my head.

    6. Ask yourself: will this matter in a year?

    In a week? In a day? Probably not. I realized that in 48 hours no one will care. Of course, it’ll be a funny story later… but no one will “care”.

    7. Reframe your mindset

    Is there a small silver lining? For me, I still took the day off, and clearly, I needed it. I got a bonus day to rest, catch up, and reset. I felt so much better afterward.

    I can be a person who has anxiety, but I don’t anxiety to have me. I want my kids to see that it’s okay to mess up. It’s how you recover that really matters.

    These small mindset shifts can really make a big difference when you’re dealing with disappointment or a wave of self-criticism.

    Have you ever spiraled over a small mistake? What helps you get back on track?

  • Hey Mom, get a hobby!

    Hey Mom, get a hobby!

    Why should kids have all the fun?

    A few months ago, I had an epiphany that changed my whole perspective. I’m enrolling my 3-year-old into all these fun sports and activities and he’s having the best time having something to look forward to during the week. Why am I not doing the same for myself?

    It was getting to the point where every day started to feel like a carbon copy of the one before: a mad dash to work, actual work, dinner, clean-up, the never-ending bedtime routine, then collapse into bed and repeat. One morning, I realized I really hadn’t done anything for myself in weeks. On a whim, I decided to sign up for a reformer Pilates class. My first in-person fitness class in over 2 years. And guess what? I LOVED it.

    I didn’t just love it because of the glute burn, I loved it because it was “me time”. It was something I had in my calendar that was just for me, no small children in attendance, no chores or to-do list involved. I walked to the class, listened to a podcast on the way, did the class, and came back refreshed, a little sore, and so ready to jump back into being a mom.

    I had been spending so much time focused on my kids and what activities they should be doing next, that I forgot I’m here too. I’ve enrolled my boy in soccer, gymnastics, skating, swimming, but had put my interests on the backburner.

    Once I realized that I could enroll myself in fun classes or try new things, I started brainstorming easy ways to do that, because afterschool/afterwork hobbies aren’t just for kids. There really are so many activities you can do to cultivate your “mom me-time” and get your spark back.

    The social recharge: wine and paint nights, book clubs, walking groups

    The something new energy: pottery, paddle boarding, dance class, horse-back riding, singing lessons

    The solo reset: gardening, yoga, volunteering, painting

    The fresh air favourites: hiking, running, golf

    The energy boosters: sports clubs, fitness classes

    You don’t have to master any one thing. I’ve realized that just showing up counts. Sometimes the hobby isn’t the activity itself, it’s the permission to leave the house for yourself.

    Throw away the mom-guilt and ignore the little voice that says, “this is a waste” or “what if I don’t like it?” Any of these activities can remind you that you’re a person outside of your family, and help you come back refreshed, ready to tackle the dishes, the tantrums, or the laundry pile(s).

    Let me know if you give any of these things a try! I’m starting an indoor golf league next Monday, and I could not be more excited to have something to look forward to, something to get better at, and something where I can meet other people!

  • Mid-Week Pick-Me Up for Busy Moms

    Mid-Week Pick-Me Up for Busy Moms

    5 things you can do to get you motivated, back-on-track, and “present” with your family

    I don’t know about you, but sometimes I start to develop bad habits. I’m talking spending too much time on social media, eating too much sugar, and just genuinely being stressed out. These habits sort of snowball into each other and tend to get worse before I reach a breaking point (aka I feel exhausted and so guilty that I’m not on my best behaviour for my kids).

    A big reason this all happens is due to fatigue (being a mom is tiring!), not prioritizing myself, and just feeling a general sense of demotivation.

    So, here’s a mid-week pick-me-up list that will help you get out of a “funk”, cultivate healthier habits, and get you slowing down and appreciating the little things. January and Mondays aren’t just for starting over – let’s make Wednesdays our mid-week mood-booster!

    1) Find a fun drink and make it

    This can be fruit in water or a non-alcoholic drink. Make it something fun, hydrating or gut-boosting, and something that brings a little extra oomph over the usual.

    For Fall, I’m loving cinnamon everything. You can add sliced apples or pears, a little cinnamon, and a little maple syrup to water to have a fun hydrating autumn-themed water. Or you can make this non-alcoholic cocktail with me:

    Pumpkin Ginger Spice Spritz from Nourished with Jessica.

    2) Make a fun food/snack

    I love having a nice baked good to look forward to at work. For this season, I’m loving banana break, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin cookies, oatmeal cookies, and apple crisp. Basically, all the spicey, cozy bakes.

    I’m making these healthy pumpkin swirl brownies for this weekend.

    But I’ve also recently made these apple cinnamon energy bites and I’ve been OBSESSED:

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup rolled oats
    • 1/2 cup peanut or almond or sunflower seed butter
    • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (I mixed the two)
    • 1/3 cup finely chopped dried apples
    • cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
    • mini white chocolate chips

    Add everything together in a bowl and mix. Form into tablespoon sized balls and store in the refrigerator. These taste like fall in a snack, and I love the texture of the apple pieces. I also love anything with chocolate chips in it.

    3) Prioritize 1 healthy habit

    Ok, so you’ve realized your healthy habits and goals have been slipping. Don’t stress, we’re all human. Choose one that’s going to make a big impact and make it your priority for the rest of the week. This can be drinking more water, walking more, or eating more fruits and veggies.

    For me, I’m going to make my habit putting my phone down when I’m with my children. And recognizing when I start to “doom scroll” and replace it with something better for me – like reading on my Kobo!

    4) Hit your step count

    Walking is so good for you. Just period. Straight talk. A few reasons to go for a walk:

    • you get fresh air if you walk outside
    • any kind of daily movement is good for you
    • it lowers your stress level
    • boosts your productivty and creativity
    • lowers anxiety and gets you out of your head
    • it can be used as a form of meditation and reflection

    I like to aim for 7,000 – 10,000 steps a day. Even just going for a quick 20-minute walk outside can provide you with so much benefit. For busy moms, wearing a step counter and just doing a general tidy around the house can really rack up your step count. Try to fit it in where you can, even bringing your kids with you on a walk after school or before bed can be a great way to incorporate it into your day.

    5) Schedule something for yourself

    If you take anything away from this list, I think it should be this: do something fun for you. You can schedule a nail appointment, a haircut, organize a girls’ night, go to a golf range. Just try to find something fun for yourself to do and schedule it in. Not only will you look forward to it (hello first dopamine boost) but you’ll get to have fun (hello second dopamine boost).

    I’m choosing to do a facial for myself. I haven’t been in forever, and after doing bedtimes by myself for the last week, I think I can treat myself especially well.

    Try it out!

    I hope you like this easy mid-week reset list! When you start to feel a little blah and unmotivated, it’s time for a bit of a brain re-set. Giving yourself these little wins and things to get excited about can really help your mood. It’s a micro-dose of romanticizing your life. These little things to boost your mood and well-being can make all the difference.

    You deserve it!

  • Golf Update #2

    Golf Update #2

    Golf is hard.

    As the end of the golf season approaches, I thought I’d do another golf update. First off, I know I’ve improved so much. Not just in my game, but my confidence. I’m no longer as nervous to play with other people, and I just have the attitude of going out there and having fun! I’ve learned a lot, and it’s been fun having a completely new hobby for me.

    What I’ve done since my last update:

    I’ve finished up my fall golf ladies league with Iron Ladies golf, and I had such a positive experience. Not only did I get to know some great women, but I also got out of the house and was able to enjoy the last remaining beautifully warm days of September. We had a games night, and I won the closest to the pin on a par 3. To me, that’s absolutely unreal and I never would have guessed I could do that if you had asked me at the start of my playing (just over 3 months ago).

    I did have such a great experience that I will be joining their fall indoor league. Mostly, to keep up what I’ve learned and to have something to look forward to as the days get colder and darker.

    I’ve also continued to golf a bit here and there with my husband when we have the childcare available. We just golfed the Homestead at Wolf Ridge Golf Course in Killaloe when we were visiting my parents for Thanksgiving and the colours of the leaves were breath taking.

    Not my best photo – I was just too dialed in to take anything. Also, my fingers were cold. But Wolf Ridge is one of my favourite courses!

    What I’m working on:

    My driver is my biggest work-in-progress. I’m slicing right almost every time. I’ve recently adjusted my grip (i.e. my husband suggested the grip change last week), and if that’s the magic key I’ll be a happy girl.

    I’m feeling good with my pitching and sand wedge. But me and my irons are not friends.

    So overall, I’ve got a bunch of things to work on over the indoor league and I’m feeling stoked for that opportunity.

    What I’ve learned over the last few months:

    I did want to put together a list of things I wish I had the opportunity to tell myself when I first started playing. Hopefully, they might help someone else who is starting out!

    1. Golf is hard. Don’t fool yourself into thinking you can be as good as some people who have played for years. But the learning and the growing are the fun parts. You’ll make an amazing putt, drive or chip and that will keep you coming back.
    2. There is no one way to swing a golf club. There are obviously better ways, but often you have to be the one to find them for yourself. What works for the pro at the course might not work for you.
    3. Use each hole as a blank slate. The terrible putting you did on the last hole doesn’t have to follow you the whole game.
    4. Cute clothes make the biggest difference. If you feel cute, you’ll play better. It’s science.
    5. Practice. No explanation needed.

    I hope you all had a great golf season! See you on my next golf update!

  • How to Fight the Monday Blues

    How to Fight the Monday Blues

    I’ve taken a little bit of break since my last post just to soak up the last few days of summer before fall hits us full force. I’ve been busy with seeing family, feeling swamped at work, daycare transitions, and with trying to enjoy my own birthday.

    My daughter just transitioned from a home daycare to starting at the same care centre as my son. While my mom heart melts when I see them playing when I pick them up, and my husband reports that they hold hands when he drops them off, it’s still been a change for my little girl and something we’ve all had to adjust to. Small shout out to the runny nose and cough she’s had since the third day she started….

    Recently, I’ve been finding that I look so forward to the weekends, only to have those two precious days fly by in a blink. Then, on Monday morning I’m right back to counting down the days until the weekend and feeling a little blah. The weather getting colder and the sun rising later is also not helping.

    For this reason, I’ve decided to put together a little list on how to conquer the Monday blues and get yourself excited for the week!

    1) Designate Sunday as a “Prep” or “Reset” Day

    I like using Sundays as a planned “slower” day, and as a day to prep for the rest of the week. Some prep I like to do is:

    • Setting out clothes (the kids and my work clothes) for the week
    • Finally getting around to folding the mountains of laundry that have accumulated over the week
    • Do a light clean of the house, such as a general tidy. I like to focus on cleaning the toy room.
    • Write out a grocery list and plan some meals for the week
    • Brainstorm some activities or fun things to do with the kids

    For your Sunday, try to focus on having a calmer day. Maybe, end your Sunday night with some self-care or something relaxing before bed. My favourites are some light stretching, reading, journaling, or a lovely full body shower where you shave your legs.

    2) Allow Yourself a Reward

    I’m going to start practising “mini reward Monday”. I’ve decided that I’ll give myself permission to get that pumpkin spice latte or cold brew with pumpkin spice cold foam at Starbucks. Both absolutely awesome, especially if you get sugar-free syrup. For now, I’m just going to plan something small that gives me a little pick-me-up (or when it comes to coffee a little pep-in-my-step) to make the Monday a little brighter.

    You can also totally DIY your own versions of the Starbucks drinks pretty easily. I’ll post my own recipes later!

    3) Start with Easy Wins

    I love a slow Monday, and jumping into the hardest task on my to-do list is really hard to muster up the motivation for. I suggest tackling your easier tasks and then building up to your more involved tasks as you build momentum. Crossing easy things off your to-do list also provides such a dopamine boost that will not only lift your mood, but make you feel like you can accomplish anything.

    4) Move Your Body

    Getting up and moving is such a hack for resetting your mood and getting out of your head. You can either prioritize a work-out, stretch, or go for a walk. Since I’m lucky enough to be at home on Mondays for my job, my goal is to walk my beautiful cockapoo Abby at least twice during the day. It’s good for her and it’s good for me.

    Right now, the crispy fall weather is just starting, and it feels so cozy to go for a walk outside. I love a light jacket or sweater on my walks and it’s going to get even better when the leaves start to change.

    5) Mindset Reframes

    I love mindset reframing. It’s so helpful for your mood and your motivation. For your Monday, instead of focusing on the countdown to the weekend, or dreading the week-long slog, choose activities during the week that you’re excited for. Right now, I’m looking forward to my ladies’ golf night on Mondays and taking my kids to the library on Thursday for some new bedtime books.

    6) Reduce the Rush

    Weekends are the perfect environment to become a little lax with your routine. It can be so easy to sleep in or go to bed later when you don’t have a workday to plan around. It can be hard but try to keep your routine as consistent as possible during the weekends, though obviously an hour here or there won’t ruin things. Your Monday self will thank you when waking up for work on Monday is that much easier. No one likes a manic Monday, where you’re snoozing your alarm and rushing into work.

    Aim to give yourself at least 10 minutes in the morning to slowly start ease into your day and to get in the right headspace. Check out this post on my 10-minute morning routine for a slower, less-stressful start to your day!

    Make Monday Your Best Day of the Week

    Monday gets such a bad rap, but if you use it as a reset/mindset shift day, it can easily become your favourite day of the week. It’s an opportunity to set the tone for the week to come and to prioritize yourself.

    Let me know if you have any suggestions to help battle those pesky Monday Blues!

    Abby says “you can do it!”