3 things I did this week to feel *better*: 1. I p 3 things I did this week to feel *better*:

1. I put the scale away. Don't get me wrong, I'm still working out regularly and watching my portions and sugar intake, but I'm not letting myself feel discouraged in the midst of building healthy habits. It's just not helpful and it's not about the number anyway.

2. Josh and I organized and decluttered the house. Is it weird that this really improves my mood while working from home??

3. I responded (ok tried to) to emails/texts faster. I'm the type who, if I don't know the answer or the best way to respond, I'll let it sit for a while and mildly stress me out until it's either too awkward to respond or I respond way late. I'm working on just responding quickly, even if it's imperfect. 

Do you struggle with any of these things?? 

Ps this is my favorite new @acta.wear top! Use my code CHELSEA20 for 20% off 👏
What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty bad when it comes to picking up books but I love me a good audio book! It feels extra productive when I listen because it's automatic multi tasking 😄 I'm currently reading 1 Samuel, Atomic Habits, and Managing Up ☝️

Ps. Swipe for Chelsea Damon presets before and after! Grab the presets individually or in a pack at chelseadamonpresets.com (🔗 in bio).
#ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intention #ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intentional decision making and living joyfully in the in between moments. #ad ONE Bars give me the chance to fill up on something I know is a good choice, with only 1g of sugar and 20g (!!) of protein! Psst, the Blueberry Cobbler is my favorite 😋 Stock up on all the delicious ONE Bar flavors!

 https://lnk2.io/w97K9YV #TasteONEtoBelieveONE #YouveFoundTheOne @ONE1Brands #onebar
Swipe ➡️ to get a better look at that view! Th Swipe ➡️ to get a better look at that view! Then swipe ↩️ to get a look at the handsomest kid I know!
I've never been a huge fan of new years resolution I've never been a huge fan of new years resolutions. My thinking has typically been, "If you want to change for the better, just start." But I will say, this year I want to do better at always seeing the bright side and the opportunity - of taking responsibility. I have a tendency to play the victim when things don't go my way or if my goals are more difficult than I expected. This year, I want to joyfully and patiently work towards my goals as well as enjoy the moments of rest in between. I also want to give more of myself and my resources: to my family, to our church family, and to those in need. 

What's a goal of yours for 2021?

"She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.  She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.  She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong.  She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.  She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.  She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.  She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet."

Proverbs 31:15‭-‬21 ESV
So we're past the longest night of winter, that me So we're past the longest night of winter, that means it's almost spring right??
I will never be a cold weather person 🥶
Rainy in a nutshell 👉 😄 Merry Christmas ever Rainy in a nutshell 👉 😄 Merry Christmas everyone!!
It started when we were younger and you were mine It started when we were younger and you were mine
MY BABY 
😭
And it's now stuck in your head you're welcome 🤗
How often do you let your kids in to what it's lik How often do you let your kids in to what it's like to manage life as an adult? To work, budget, to eat healthy not because you have to but because you want to, to give to others, to spend time in the word, to forgive even when we don't feel like it...

I think it's so important to model and help our kids see the every day choices that are not always easy but make a huge difference in the long run. Ie. eating out less = more $$ in the bank to buy meals for the homeless or to bring a child in who need a home. Josh and I don't always feel like cooking, but it's easier when we remember we're working towards greater things ❤️

In a world of instant gratification, what are we teaching our kids to work and wait for?
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Baby, Motherhood, Sponsored · March 19, 2019

The Best Tips + Packing List for Hiking with Kids and Babies

As a general rule, the idea is to pack smart. Don’t pack more than you need as you’ll probably be the one carrying it all back, but do keep certain scenarios in mind like hunger, bathroom breaks, weather, etc.

When Josh and I got pregnant, we knew that we didn’t want our lives to look all that much different than they did before we had kids. We loved getting out and trying new restaurants, hiking exploring new cities. And we decided that our kids would just come along for the ride once they joined the fam.

So while we still try to do a lot of the things we did before kids, we’ve had to make a few modifications. We, of course, can’t do an 11-mile hike in one day with both kids

The more obvious things to pack

Here are a few things that you would probably bring with you anywhere, but are especially essential if you’re going to be out in the middle of nowhere with kids:

  • Extra diapers
  • A zip-up outfit (easier to pack and lighter than an entirely new outfit, am I right?)
  • Extra pair of shoes. Although it might be ok to keep these in the car for after the hike in case you’re planning on grabbing a bite to eat or running errands before going home. I don’t know how many extra pairs of shoes we have in our car but I’m confident a pair will always be there when we need them.
  • Water/formula
  • Snacks. No one likes being out with a hungry toddler. Especially the hungry toddler. Bonus points if this is a treat the kids can look forward to like homemade trail mix.

The not-so-obvious things to pack/gear you’ll need

  • A hat to protect from sun or rain, should it become an issue.
  • Jacket. Depending on where you’re hiking, it could be cold and windy at the end of your hike! Josh and I have had to endure freezing hikes because we gave our sweatshirts to the kids (because the base camp was warm and the top was very much not).
  • A quality baby carrier/backpack
As a general rule, the idea is to pack smart. Don’t pack more than you need as you’ll probably be the one carrying it all back, but do keep certain scenarios in mind like hunger, bathroom breaks, weather, etc.

We have the Chicco SmartSupport Backpack. I love this baby backpack because it does and will grow with the kids. If I’m going to spend money on baby gear, I hate the idea of only using it for a few months and then giving it away or keeping it in storage.

The Chicco SmartSupport Backpack is wonderful because, at the moment, we can use it carry BOTH Evy and David! It holds up to 40 lbs and David, the peanut that he is, is still under the weight limit. Which is great for us because half the time when we expect to use this backpack, we think it’ll be for Evy when- just kidding- David is the one who is completely done with walking.

I also can sometimes have a bad back and I need all the support I can get when carrying the kids. This backpack has an aluminum frame, making it extremely light, as well as lumbar support so your back isn’t killing you at the end of your walk.

I also love that the Chicco SmartSupport Backpack also has an adjustable canopy that can help provide shade from the sun or rain if that becomes an issue during your hike. I also find it’s freestanding ability really useful when we stop for breaks or a snack!

Overall, Josh and I love to use this backpack for long and short walks with the kids, and the kids love hitching a ride to the end of the hike.

As a general rule, the idea is to pack smart. Don’t pack more than you need as you’ll probably be the one carrying it all back, but do keep certain scenarios in mind like hunger, bathroom breaks, weather, etc.

Here are some pro-tips:

  • Beware taking your kids on a hike you’re not familiar with, try a trial run when it’s just you and your partner.
  • Be sure to download the map of the area you’ll be hiking on your phone in before you lose service. This has been a lifesaver for us when traveling in the past!
  • Keep in mind the time it’ll take to get back. Kids only last so long, you don’t want to find yourself in the place that’s furthest from where you started when kids begin to break down. If can make it to your turnaround point while the kids are still enjoying your hike, you might just make it back without having to carry tired and grumpy babies.
  • Plan the time you start your hike. Of course, any seasoned parent knows that when you leave the house with kids, you need to budget enough time to make it home before nap/bedtime. Generally, I feel like our kids are way more up for adventures in the morning so try getting out early!
  • Don’t rush it. If you have it in your head that you want to complete the entire hike, you might need to be a little flexible with that goal. Also, be sure to take your time and enjoy the hike! When your kids stop to look at the sticks and leaves, look at it with them. Yes, your hike will take longer. But I’ve found that if we keep the attitude of our hike positive and exciting, the kids last way longer than if we try to rush them to make it to the end.
  • Make it a game. Toddlers love challenges! If you can create a scavenger hunt (or if you forget to plan one, a game of “I spy”), the kids will be much more focused on the fun rather than keeping up with mom and dad.
As a general rule, the idea is to pack smart. Don’t pack more than you need as you’ll probably be the one carrying it all back, but do keep certain scenarios in mind like hunger, bathroom breaks, weather, etc.

As a general rule, the idea is to pack smart. Don’t pack more than you need as you’ll probably be the one carrying it all back, but do keep certain scenarios in mind like hunger, bathroom breaks, weather, etc.

After a few hikes, you’ll find that investing in a couple high-quality pieces of gear will go a long way and serve your family for years to come. We love using our Chicco SmartSupport Backpack because we know it’s strong enough to hold the kids and light enough to take anywhere. Pick one up for your next walk through town or grand adventure!

As a general rule, the idea is to pack smart. Don’t pack more than you need as you’ll probably be the one carrying it all back, but do keep certain scenarios in mind like hunger, bathroom breaks, weather, etc.

In: Baby, Motherhood, Sponsored · Tagged: 40 lbs, baby, backpack, carrier, chicco, inexpensixe, noads, pack, quality, review, toddler, travel

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Comments

  1. SENECA says

    May 18, 2020 at 6:05 am

    I have been on the hunt for a hiking backpack! I think you’ve got me sold! This one seems awesome with great features and an unbeatable price! Thank you for sharing!
    Seneca | SENECAWELKER. COM
    https://www.senecawelker.com/

    Reply

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Hi! I'm Chelsea and we're the Damon's. We spent the last two years in WA state paying off student loans and just bought our first house in SC! I love a smooth black coffee, Josh's first love is the Seattle Sounders. Our kids are huge dorks and constantly make us laugh and we all love spending as much time outside as possible.

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3 things I did this week to feel *better*: 1. I p 3 things I did this week to feel *better*:

1. I put the scale away. Don't get me wrong, I'm still working out regularly and watching my portions and sugar intake, but I'm not letting myself feel discouraged in the midst of building healthy habits. It's just not helpful and it's not about the number anyway.

2. Josh and I organized and decluttered the house. Is it weird that this really improves my mood while working from home??

3. I responded (ok tried to) to emails/texts faster. I'm the type who, if I don't know the answer or the best way to respond, I'll let it sit for a while and mildly stress me out until it's either too awkward to respond or I respond way late. I'm working on just responding quickly, even if it's imperfect. 

Do you struggle with any of these things?? 

Ps this is my favorite new @acta.wear top! Use my code CHELSEA20 for 20% off 👏
What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty bad when it comes to picking up books but I love me a good audio book! It feels extra productive when I listen because it's automatic multi tasking 😄 I'm currently reading 1 Samuel, Atomic Habits, and Managing Up ☝️

Ps. Swipe for Chelsea Damon presets before and after! Grab the presets individually or in a pack at chelseadamonpresets.com (🔗 in bio).
#ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intention #ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intentional decision making and living joyfully in the in between moments. #ad ONE Bars give me the chance to fill up on something I know is a good choice, with only 1g of sugar and 20g (!!) of protein! Psst, the Blueberry Cobbler is my favorite 😋 Stock up on all the delicious ONE Bar flavors!

 https://lnk2.io/w97K9YV #TasteONEtoBelieveONE #YouveFoundTheOne @ONE1Brands #onebar
Swipe ➡️ to get a better look at that view! Th Swipe ➡️ to get a better look at that view! Then swipe ↩️ to get a look at the handsomest kid I know!

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3 things I did this week to feel *better*: 1. I p 3 things I did this week to feel *better*:

1. I put the scale away. Don't get me wrong, I'm still working out regularly and watching my portions and sugar intake, but I'm not letting myself feel discouraged in the midst of building healthy habits. It's just not helpful and it's not about the number anyway.

2. Josh and I organized and decluttered the house. Is it weird that this really improves my mood while working from home??

3. I responded (ok tried to) to emails/texts faster. I'm the type who, if I don't know the answer or the best way to respond, I'll let it sit for a while and mildly stress me out until it's either too awkward to respond or I respond way late. I'm working on just responding quickly, even if it's imperfect. 

Do you struggle with any of these things?? 

Ps this is my favorite new @acta.wear top! Use my code CHELSEA20 for 20% off 👏
What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty What are you currently reading? I admit I'm pretty bad when it comes to picking up books but I love me a good audio book! It feels extra productive when I listen because it's automatic multi tasking 😄 I'm currently reading 1 Samuel, Atomic Habits, and Managing Up ☝️

Ps. Swipe for Chelsea Damon presets before and after! Grab the presets individually or in a pack at chelseadamonpresets.com (🔗 in bio).
#ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intention #ad 2021 for me is going to be all about intentional decision making and living joyfully in the in between moments. #ad ONE Bars give me the chance to fill up on something I know is a good choice, with only 1g of sugar and 20g (!!) of protein! Psst, the Blueberry Cobbler is my favorite 😋 Stock up on all the delicious ONE Bar flavors!

 https://lnk2.io/w97K9YV #TasteONEtoBelieveONE #YouveFoundTheOne @ONE1Brands #onebar
Swipe ➡️ to get a better look at that view! Th Swipe ➡️ to get a better look at that view! Then swipe ↩️ to get a look at the handsomest kid I know!
I've never been a huge fan of new years resolution I've never been a huge fan of new years resolutions. My thinking has typically been, "If you want to change for the better, just start." But I will say, this year I want to do better at always seeing the bright side and the opportunity - of taking responsibility. I have a tendency to play the victim when things don't go my way or if my goals are more difficult than I expected. This year, I want to joyfully and patiently work towards my goals as well as enjoy the moments of rest in between. I also want to give more of myself and my resources: to my family, to our church family, and to those in need. 

What's a goal of yours for 2021?

"She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.  She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.  She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong.  She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.  She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.  She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.  She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet."

Proverbs 31:15‭-‬21 ESV
So we're past the longest night of winter, that me So we're past the longest night of winter, that means it's almost spring right??
I will never be a cold weather person 🥶
Rainy in a nutshell 👉 😄 Merry Christmas ever Rainy in a nutshell 👉 😄 Merry Christmas everyone!!
It started when we were younger and you were mine It started when we were younger and you were mine
MY BABY 
😭
And it's now stuck in your head you're welcome 🤗
How often do you let your kids in to what it's lik How often do you let your kids in to what it's like to manage life as an adult? To work, budget, to eat healthy not because you have to but because you want to, to give to others, to spend time in the word, to forgive even when we don't feel like it...

I think it's so important to model and help our kids see the every day choices that are not always easy but make a huge difference in the long run. Ie. eating out less = more $$ in the bank to buy meals for the homeless or to bring a child in who need a home. Josh and I don't always feel like cooking, but it's easier when we remember we're working towards greater things ❤️

In a world of instant gratification, what are we teaching our kids to work and wait for?
So this happened 💚 What started as a blog turne So this happened 💚
What started as a blog turned into a way to help others, then turned into a book, and then turned into a way to support our family. We love our new city and  are so happy to be here!
1 Corinthians 1:11 "Follow me as I follow Christ."

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