Happy Friday!

How is everyone this week?

The kiddos are back in school! It’s crazy how much time 6 hours really is and how much I can get done! Now I have to pull myself out of the mounds of paperwork I have left to the side since the beginning of summer….

Our annual cornhole tournament party is this weekend and this year it has a country theme! One of our least favorite music genres but we know how much others enjoy it so we are yeehawing it this year. I scored a tee that is similar to what Jessica Simpson wore in her 1990s music video “These Boots are made for walkin” on Poshmark and I am going to pair it with some old denim shorts, a cowboy hat and my Freda Salvador Loretta boots. The same outfit I will probably reuse for the Zach Bryan concert coming up!

I find out today if we were able to score Olivia Rodrigo tickets. Fingers crossed because my oldest will be over the moon and it will make for a great holiday gift this year!

Poshmark

I added more items into my Poshmark this week and more to come in the next few weeks!

Motherhood, By the Numbers

I wanted to create this space to raise awareness, awareness to what mothers face, especially in this country. How common trauma is. How little support actually exists. How many of us are white-knuckling it through things we didn’t know were normal until we said it out loud. I want a place to put those facts, plainly, without softening them for anyone’s comfort, because I think the hardest parts of motherhood stay hard partly because we don’t talk about them.

• Of women with perinatal depression, onset occurs before pregnancy in 27%, during pregnancy in 33%, and postpartum in 40%

• An estimated 50% of women who are depressed during and after pregnancy go undiagnosed and untreated — making it one of the most underdiagnosed obstetric complications

• Nearly 50% of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are never identified

• Fewer than 1 in 4 women in one large U.S. city received screening or education for perinatal mental health during prenatal, postpartum, or well-child visits

• Clinical trials focused specifically on obstetric conditions make up fewer than 2% of all clinical trials

• The sleep drug zolpidem was approved in a trial where women were only 37% of participants; nearly 20 years later the recommended dose for women was cut in half because they clear it more slowly

• Because women were 60% or more of some disease populations but under-enrolled in trials, medical spending on research has historically favored diseases that affect men

Lindsay Clancy Trial

I have so many thoughts about this trial and I know many of you feel the same. It’s been wild to hear the commonwealth’s argument that Lindsay didn’t ask for enough help, she should have had her husband do more, she didn’t look sad enough, she didn’t take enough medications, blah blah blah. In the closing argument yesterday the CW started off with “…..this isn’t about women’s health..”

Well I will be damned. Say what now? This entire case is about postpartum mental health. We have heard from many expert witnesses who specialized in mental health, some specifically postpartum mental health. But it’s not about women’s health?

I am deeply worried about the outcome of this case. If the outcome of this case turns out to be guilty, it will set precedent for other women to wind up in jail based on a man’s hearsay. Because that’s literally all this case was. There was botched evidence, a scene that was not properly secured, etc.

We also have so much to learn about postpartum mental health and kudos for Big Red for pointing out so much of that during this trial. I loved the points he had to make when he compared the United States to other high income countries and how we treat postpartum patients here is atrocious. He also made reference to the mental health issues that can arise when a woman is weaning from breastfeeding. Personally, I wish this was talked about more because that was especially difficult for me.

Anyways, what are your thoughts?

What’s On The Menu?

Monday: Cheeseburger Tacos with House Sauce

Tuesday: Baked Tortellini with Sausage

Wednesday: Saucy Gochujang Noodles with Chicken

Thursday: Ricotta Meatballs with the Crispy Topping

Friday: leftovers

TOP: Old Navy Snug Crop Tank

SKIRT: Calypso St. Barth Skirt - scored at TJ Maxx for $20

SHOES: Old Navy Slides (10 years old)

ACCESSORIES: Coach Earrings, Quilted Phone Crossbody (similar here) , Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

• Old Navy: 40% off Fall Faves

My Picks: Vintage Crew Tee, Oversized Button-Down Boyfriend Shirt, the greatest baby pajamas, my number one go-to tank, High waisted pocket leggings, & this contrast sports bra

• Aerie: 30% off sweatshirts & 40% off leggings

My Picks: Go to Boyfriend Sweatshirt, Quarter Snap Sweatshirt, Layered Sweatshirt, High Waisted Crossover Leggings + Go With The Flow Wide Leg Pants

• Ulta: 50% off daily and weekly deals is BACK. From August 28 until September 17th, check it out daily to see which items are marked 50% off. So many of the products I typically use are included so it’s definitely worth checking out!

• Anthropologie: 25% off designer denim and extra 50% off sale items

My Picks: PAIGE Wide Leg Jeans, AGOLDE Harper Denim, Reformation Olivia Knit Dress, Farm Rio Fruit Balloon Pants (love these!), Somerset Strapless Dress, & Belted Wrap Skort

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

TOP: H&M Knit Vest, Longline bralette

PANTS: H&M Barrel Leg Pants

SHOES: Woven Maryjane Flats

ACCESSORIES: Quince Belted Bucket Bag, Ana Luisa Hoops

TOP: The Arden Crewneck Sweater in 100% cotton

PANTS: Bella Stretch Barrel Jeans (these are incredibly comfortable and a great price)

SHOES: Woven Maryjane Flats

ACCESSORIES: Pendant necklace, Ana Luisa Earrings, Quince Belted Bucket Bag

• READ || The Motherhood Heist: The Billion-Dollar Business of Making Mothers Blame Themselves | Downwind of Trust with Kait Justice Substack → I really enjoyed this article from Kait. She talks about how the crushing exhaustion and guilt most moms feel isn't personal failure, it's the predictable result of a support system that got dismantled and sold back to us piece by piece. She's launching a series about who profited from that collapse and I cannot wait for the next post in her series.

• READ || The Neurodivergent Learner | Emily King PhD → I added this book to my list recently. The book argues these kids aren’t broken, they’re just stuck in a school system that wasn’t built for their brains, and she hands parents real tools to bridge that gap. This directly applies to a few of our kids so I am excited to dive in.

• WATCH || Dolly Parton: Here I Am | PBS→ In remembrance of one of the greatest, watch this amazing documentary of Dolly……

• READ || Your guide to fall 2026 vaccines | Your Local Epidemiologist → Katelyn breaks down the vaccines for the fall season in this post. I know some of you have questions on some of them so use this as a resource!

• I just subscribed to this newsletter that transports you back to the ‘90s - pretty cool!

  

• Scientists are studying stem cells found in menstrual blood as a new way to help the body heal, and several women researchers lead this field. One who is leading the field is Dr. Caroline Gargett (from Australia), who helped discover these cells and figure out how to identify them. These stem cells can be collected easily and painlessly (without surgery), and they appear to help healing mainly by sending out natural signals that calm inflammation, grow new blood vessels, and reduce scarring; early research suggests they may one day help repair the lining of the uterus, treat certain fertility problems, and even mend cartilage and other tissues. SO COOL! This work is still in its early stages and not yet a proven treatment but interesting nonetheless!

• This is a great website to source when you are looking for the perfect book to read to your child or for your child to read. She has everything here!

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• For under $200, this pendant light is a real winner!

• Fernanda Black Rug - code: LYNZY10 for 10% off

• This swivel chair is stunning!

• Maeve velvet throw pillow + ruffled throw pillow

• These frames come in a variety of sizes so that you can make a gallery wall if you wish

• I had to include this 100% cotton bath robe. What a beautiful gift to yourself or someone else.

• Preserved pepperberry bunch

• This lotion is great to put on right before bed to calm your kids OR your self before drifting off to sleep.

• I’ve never heard of this activewear brand but its it damn cute!

• Every order from the Stray Project helps fund shelter dogs and the adoptions.

• My mom used this detergent at my house a few weeks ago and she just got some of her own because she loved it so much. As I’ve mentioned before, the smell, australian sandalwood.

• We are going to be redoing the entryway soon and this runner is on my radar.

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🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

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Happy Friday!

How is everyone this week?

We are getting ready for our kids to head back to school and I am excited to have everyone back on a schedule. Our child who had surgery 5 weeks ago is off crutches (yay!) and now doing PT for a few months to strengthen up his leg and hopefully prevent this from happening again. The problem with osteochondritis is that it varies significantly case to case and it can become a chronic issue.

I got teary eyed seeing all those in pink who went to stand in front of the courthouse yesterday. It is such a shame that it took a case like this for those to start thinking about how abysmal postpartum mental health care is in this country and the very least we can take away from this case is that it needs to get better…..yesterday.

Also, if you’ve been deep into the Lindsay Clancy case - look into Latarsha Sanders who was also a mother from MA. She is currently serving two life sentences for the murders of her two young sons in 2018. Those convictions were just vacated by the MA Supreme Judicial Court and she was granted a new trial (Just about a week ago….). Her defense was insanity because she too, had postpartum psychosis. The original judge kept most of her psychiatric history from the jury and she didn’t get a fair shot during the trial.

Poshmark

I added more items into my Poshmark this week and more to come in the next few weeks!

Motherhood, By the Numbers

I wanted to create this space to raise awareness, awareness to what mothers face, especially in this country. How common trauma is. How little support actually exists. How many of us are white-knuckling it through things we didn’t know were normal until we said it out loud. I want a place to put those facts, plainly, without softening them for anyone’s comfort, because I think the hardest parts of motherhood stay hard partly because we don’t talk about them.

• About 700 women die each year in the United States from pregnancy-related complications.

• Roughly 2 out of every 3 U.S. pregnancy-related deaths are considered preventable.

• Perinatal mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder) affect more than 1 in 5 (over 20%) of people during pregnancy and the year after birth.

• The United States is the only high-income country without national paid family leave, and one of only about 7 countries worldwide with no paid leave for birthing parents.

• Where paid family leave exists, it is linked to longer breastfeeding, lower postpartum depressive symptoms, reduced preterm birth and low birthweight, and lower infant mortality.

What Should Postpartum Care Look Like?

The Lindsay Clancy case really has me thinking so much about postpartum care and specifically everything I personally struggled with. Even though I think we talk much more about our struggles than our own mothers did, it’s still not enough. We need to change the course of how we are treated and cared for. I highlight more in the post I wrote last week…..

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What’s On The Menu?

Monday: Easy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti

Tuesday: Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos with Mango Corn Salsa and Avocado Crema

Wednesday: Slow Cooker Ramen Noodles with Ground Beef

Thursday: Baked Chicken Wings in Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce

Friday: leftovers

TOPS: Old Navy Snug Crop Tank, Quince Relaxed Oxford Shirt

SHORTS: Athleta Salutation Shorts

SHOES: APL Slides

ACCESSORIES: COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent, Goodr Sunglasses

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

• Target Household Items Sale: $15 Gift Card with $50 purchase

My Picks: My favorite laundry detergent pods AND dryer sheets are part of this (get the Australian Sandalwood), Mrs. Meyers Clementine Dish Soap, & The Pink Stuff Multipurpose Cleaner

• GAP: Friends & Family 40% off

My Picks: Easy Wide Leg Pants (these are incredibly comfortable and can be dressed up or down), Denim Oversized Jacket, Knit Relaxed Track Pants, Rollneck Sweater, Barrel Utility Pants

• Ruggable: up to 30% off - a bunch of their bestsellers were just added to the sale list!

My Picks: Rowan Rug - Pimpernel Jade Rug - Cynthia Rose Gold Rug - Verena Tufted Rug - Sundara Rug

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

TOP: Old Navy Snug Crop Top

PANTS: Drapey Trousers

SHOES: AE Raffia Ballet Flats

ACCESSORIES: Ettica Pendant Necklace, Ana Luisa Earrings, Madewell Shoulder Bag

TOP: Long Sleeve Boxy Tee

PANTS: Mango Balloon Pants

SHOES: Braided Ballet Flats

ACCESSORIES: Raffia Hair Clip, Ana Luisa Earrings, Gold Layering Necklace

• READ || Mad Mabel | Sally Hepworth → I just started reading this book for book club this month and I am loving the audible version so far!

• READ || 85 Of Our Favorite Back To School Dinners | How Sweet Eats → This is an awesome resource for when you don’t know what to cook. I know that I really despise using any brain space for meal planning and I have this website bookmarked!

• READ || Ritu in the Sun | Moniza Hossain→ A great read for those of you with smaller kids. The main character, Ritu, adores the sun in every part of her day but her Nani worries all that light will darken her skin. The book follows Ritu as she gently pushes back on that fear and tries to show her grandmother that every skin tone including Nani’s own is worth loving.

• READ || How to Disagree With Your Kids Without Fighting | Raising Good Humans With Aliza Pressman → I really enjoy this Substack and this article was one that hit home. Summer is awesome but it also means more fighting since we are all together ALL the time.

“If a parent’s disagreements are always delivered with total certainty, children learn that being right sounds like being loud and never budging. If those disagreements include a little hedging — I think this, but I could be missing something — children learn that conviction and open-mindedness aren’t opposites.”

• If you are looking for a bra lift - this is a new addition to the EBY line!

• Apparently the Costco 680 cotton sheets are where it’s at - even better than Brooklinen, have you tried them?!

• I just found this substack and Kika is such a beautiful artist! My favorite are these block prints.

• I finally got a chance to try this out and dare I say that it is like getting a facial without having to leave your house? What a great way to pamper yourself at home and perhaps a great thing to ask for as a gift?! You can actually see the impurities being removed as you use it. I was worried about using it on my skin because I tend to get red and blotchy but it didn’t have that effect on me. This is the more affordable version of the system they had prior to this with the depuffi option. They simply took out that part and decreased the price which is great if you don’t need that (which I don’t).

• Run an ozone machine in your car or any other place that has a smell. You can run it in your car with the windows up for about 2 hours.

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• This rug is stunning! Loving those deep colors.

• What a cool way to hang coats!

• Large rattan basket to hold all your throws in your living space

• Channel-tufted chair

• Large wire and fabric hamper

• Stackable highball glasses

• Still reflection framed print

• Digging these “Fight for Science” tees!

• Really loving these trousers - love the baggy feel to them at the bottom!

• This cream is great for eczema or dry areas.

• I have heard awesome things about this book and it’s on my next to read list.

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🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

• Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.

• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

  Subscribe now

• Use the referral link below to introduce a friend!

  Refer a friend

Happy Friday!

We escaped for a few days into the White Mountains last weekend in NH. We stayed at Huttopia. There are a few in California and a few here in the Northeast but it’s basically elevated camping. We stayed on a lake which was a blast with the kids. Lots of paddle boarding, fishing, and swimming. Highly recommend Huttopia if you have never been!

I’ve been craving more of a schedule recently and I think the kids are too. We have been all over the place this summer. I am looking forward to regular bed times, getting back to early AM workouts and having everyone used to their schedules again.

Poshmark

I added more items into my Poshmark this week and more to come in the next few weeks!

Intrusive Thoughts

Intrusive thoughts postpartum are a lot more common than you think.

Having sudden, unwanted, upsetting thoughts about your baby being harmed is one of the most common experiences after childbirth, FAR more common than most new parents realize.

Studies show that almost all new mothers (over 95%) have fleeting thoughts of their baby being accidentally hurt, and about half have unwanted thoughts about intentionally harming their baby. These thoughts happen to loving, healthy parents whether or not they have any mental health condition.

The key thing to understand is that having these thoughts does NOT mean you want to hurt your baby or that you will act on them. In fact, the reason they feel so disturbing is precisely because they go against everything you feel and value as a parent.

These thoughts tend to be strongest in the first couple of months after delivery, often peaking around 5 to 8 weeks postpartum, when they can feel frequent and distressing. For most parents, they gradually fade on their own and go away completely by around 6 months.

I talk more in depth in this podcast episode if you want to learn more!

Postpartum Depression, Postpartum Anxiety, and Intrusive Thoughts with Dr. Catherine Schmidt

Acadia

I was able to write up our Acadia itinerary this week and it even includes a printable PDF that you can use for your own planning!

Thrifting

I h

What’s On The Menu?

Monday: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta

Tuesday: 20 minute Crispy Garlic Chicken Noodles

Wednesday: Easy Smash Burger Tacos

Thursday: Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Friday: leftovers

TOPS: Old Navy Snug Crop Tank, Vintage Ralph Lauren Flannel

SHORTS: AGOLDE shorts

SHOES: Birkenstock Sandals

ACCESSORIES: COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent, Goodr Sunglasses

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

• Soft Services: 10% off sitewide and gift with purchase over $75

My Picks: Clearing Mist (can’t wait for this to be restocked), the smell of this “VACATION” soap bar is glorious, and this is a great product for when you need deep hydration.

• APIECE APART - Sample Sale - up to 30% off

  My number one dress is part of this sale and now down to $145! It has the most flattering fit.

• GAP Friends and Family Sale: 40% off sitewide

My Picks: A wardrobe staple, denim oversized shirt jacket, organic cotton cropped oxford shirt, these pants are THE BEST - dress them up or down, utility skort, barrel pants,

• Ruggable: up to 30% off - a bunch of their bestsellers were just added to the sale list!

My Picks: Pimpernel Jade Rug - Cynthia Rose Gold Rug - Verena Tufted Rug - Sundara Rug

• The Vitamine Shoppe: 15% off $100, 10% off $75 with code: COREMOVE

This is where I get my creatine, protein, etc. My picks are below!

My Picks: Clear Protein in Sour watermelon, Salted Peanut Caramel Protein Bars - they taste like a Snickers, Clean Simple Eats Brownie Batter Protein - this is what I make many of our smoothies and my morning coffee with. See how I make my coffee here, Clean Simply Eats in Simply Vanilla, & the daily creatine I take here.

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

TOP: T-shirt, Oversized Trench Jacket

PANTS: Bronte Cargo Pants

SHOES: Suede Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: Hair Claw, Ana Luisa Earrings

TOP: Old Navy Crop Tank

PANTS: Easy Double Knee Barrel Pants

SHOES: Suede Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: Hair Claw, Ana Luisa Earrings, Polo Hat

• WATCH || 35 Min Abs & Booty Workout | Youtube - Move With Nicole → I recently did this workout with one of our kids and it’s a great one for focusing on the core and glutes! Exercises that are important to help support any sports they play! The core is so often neglected and is important to strengthen to decrease injury (hips and glutes as well).

• WATCH || Shrinking | Apple TV → We watched this awhile back but forgot it for a bit. We’ve been back at it this week and I really just love this show. Such a great way to unwind at the end of the day and laugh a bit. Highly recommend!

• READ || Longitudinal Effect of Early Social Media Use on Standardized Learning Outcomes During School Career | Nature Human Behaviour (2026) → This is a recent longitudinal study of >5,000 students in Italy that researched the effects of social media. Children who got their first social media account earlier (6th - 8th) did worse on their school tests in reading, English, and math than similar kids who waited until 9th grade or later. A big reason seemed to be that phones were always around during homework, meals, and bedtime, taking attention away from schoolwork and sleep. The study can't fully prove social media alone caused this, but it fits with other research linking heavy social media use to weaker school and thinking skills.

• READ || We’re All Being Recorded All the Time | Sharon McMahon The Preamble → We used to worry about hidden mics in our homes, now we strap them to our faces voluntarily. People are even recording their first dates now and feeding the transcript to AI for a debrief. I am so happy Sharon addressed this.

• Restocked one of our go-to bubble bath products this week

• Can we just have a moment for the strawberry shortcake that I had at Cheesecake Factory last weekend? DELICIOUS.

• I am a sucker for a cute jumpsuit

• The first “nature library”, Anythink Library, just opened in Colorado and it even has a mud pit and darkroom with stars projected on the ceiling. You can check out snowshoes, tents, gardening equipment and more. I cannot stop thinking about this library - how wonderful! I would love to see one open near us!

• Apparently you can get a discount on your pet medications at Costco if you have a membership. For example, simparica trio (so expensive) is much cheaper. Have your vet call the prescription in to Costco with the dog’s name. Then call them and have them link it to your account and membership.

• I just signed up for the waitlist for when this product is restocked because it’s great for acne (face/back) and post workouts. Great for pre-teen/teens!

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• I just love this scarecrow guy!

• Calabria Multicolor rug - great dark tones in this rug

• Marble top vanity - this is a gorgeous addition to any bathroom

• Etched star lantern

• There’s a Ghost in This House book

• Beautiful fabric boxes to store items

• This jacket is nearly identical to my favorite Lululemon Define Jacket for a fraction of the price!

• I recently tried out this deodorant and it smells so good! I use it along with this oil when I get out of the shower (scent: santal bloom)

• Great swimsuit - I have had the hardest time finding a two piece that I liked but this one fits great (with these bottoms)

• Apparently this device is equivalent to a spa hydro facial and I am testing it out for the first time this weekend. Stay tuned for the feedback! Have you tried it yet?!

Share Badass Matriarch

🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

• Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.

• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

  Subscribe now

• Use the referral link below to introduce a friend!

  Refer a friend

Watching Lindsay Clancy’s trial has unlocked so many feelings that were brushed under the rug. We are told that we are “so amazing” for continuously doing it ALL but never told that we don’t NEED to. We are never told how important building a community is. I cannot believe that this trial is unfolding on the internet like this and it has been very difficult to watch. One thing is very apparent to me from watching this trial and it’s that she deeply wanted to be an amazing mother. She was constantly trying to get the help she desperately needed and was failed time and time again.

All of this has me (again) thinking of what postpartum care looks like here in the United States. Postpartum care in the United States has historically been organized around a single comprehensive visit at approximately 6 weeks. The UK, Netherland, Sweden and France for example provide multiple scheduled contacts, routine midwife home visits in the first days to weeks, and universal coverage untied to employment or insurance status.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that perinatal mental health conditions (depression, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder) affect more than 1 in 5 perinatal individuals, making them among the most common complications of pregnancy and the first postpartum year.

• Depression: Perinatal depression affects approximately 1 in 7 women (14%), with onset before pregnancy in 27%, during pregnancy in 33%, and postpartum in 40%.

• Anxiety: Pregnant patients tend to be more susceptible to anxiety than postpartum patients, and perinatal anxiety is a strong predictor of perinatal depression. 28% of women with perinatal anxiety have comorbid depression, and among women with perinatal depression, 83% of their comorbid disorders are anxiety disorders.

• Intrusive thoughts: ACOG emphasizes that unwanted or intrusive thoughts—including thoughts of harming the infant—are very common and can occur in the absence of any mental health condition, though they are also associated with perinatal depression, anxiety, and OCD.

There is a rising burden of perinatal disorders. Between 2006 and 2015, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders rose from 18.4 to 40.4 per 1,000 deliveries, and severe mental illness rose from 4.2 to 8.1 per 1,000 deliveries.

Source: Screening and Diagnosis of Mental Health Conditions During Pregnancy and Postpartum: ACOG Clinical Practice Guideline

As for maternal mental health testing here in the U.S., some states have screening mandates while others do not. ACOG recommends screening all patients for both depression and anxiety using validated tools (EPDS, PHQ-9, GAD-7) at the initial prenatal visit, again later in pregnancy, and postpartum, with a required mood/emotional-wellbeing assessment at the comprehensive postpartum visit (recommended within 12 weeks of birth).

I can tell you that I was not screened once while I was pregnant. I do remember filling out a form at my 6 week postpartum visit for at least two of my pregnancies. After filling out the form, my provider took a look at it and asked no follow-up questions whatsoever. I realize that this is just my experience but I bet that it sounds similar to some of you as well…..

So what should postpartum care look like?

If I had all the power in the world to change what postpartum care is like for women here in the United States, this is what I would do:

Looking back, I cannot believe the lack of care I received. Breastfeeding felt close to impossible and I think I cried for the first four months, daily, with each of my kids, just trying to figure it out. With every baby I had a different issue — nipple fissures, “breastfeeding failure,” production issues, clogged ducts so painful I’d sit in the shower and cry into my hands. It all felt very lonely and impossible.

Here’s the part that still makes me angry: I am a medical provider. I have spent more than 18 years in emergency medicine. I know how to navigate a broken system, I know which questions to ask, I know how to advocate for myself in a way most patients don’t. And I still felt completely lost. So what happens to the mother who doesn’t have that background? Who doesn’t know a lactation consultant from a nurse who means well but has no idea what she’s looking at? Who gets sent home 48 hours after major abdominal surgery or a body-altering vaginal delivery with a pamphlet and a phone number nobody answers?

We hand a woman a baby and tell her good luck. We check her blood pressure at six weeks and call it postpartum care. Six weeks. As if the fourth trimester wraps up in a bow the moment insurance stops requiring a follow-up visit.

We need more than a checklist.

We need real follow-up, real lactation support that doesn’t cost a mortgage payment, real mental health screening that isn’t a two-question form you fill out half-asleep in a waiting room, and for goodness sakes, we need pelvic floor physical therapy referrals. We need providers who ask twice, who notice when the answer doesn’t match the eyes. We need to stop treating postpartum care like an afterthought. This is a crisis, happening quietly, in bathrooms and nurseries at 3am, to women who are too exhausted and too ashamed to say it out loud. We need to keep talking about this incessantly until there is change.

Right now, mothers are not getting enough.

We deserve better.

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As always, I document the entire trip in today’s post with photos I took while we were there as well as all the details of places we ate and things we did. I am always painfully honest on whether or not certain things were worth it and all of that is included here.

In today’s paid Substack content below you will find:

• where we stayed while visiting Acadia National Park, Ogunquit & Kennebunkport

• Photo diary of the trip

• Complete itinerary including places we went to eat (and whether they were worth it), hikes we did, activities we enjoyed while we were there

• Random tips and notes about the trip at the end of the itinerary

• Printable PDF Magazine

As always, thank you so much for supporting my content here on this platform. It takes time to create these posts and I am grateful that YOU chose to support it ❤️

Read more

Happy Friday!

Today’s newsletter is a bit longer than usual! Lots to catch up on!

The Lindsay Clancy case has been heavy on my mind this week. It is a very clear reminder of how incredibly lacking our maternal health in this country is. I have not watched every part of the trial but it does seem as though she tried incredibly hard to get the help she desperately needed and she was very vocal in how ill she felt. What does it take to listen and take women seriously?

I felt differently after every child I had. All of it was difficult, none of it was easy. I didn’t feel like myself for 10 years. We need to raise more awareness to maternal mental health and give much more access than we currently have. I wrote a piece on all of it this week here…..

I have a few podcast episodes specifically on PPD, PPA and Postpartum Psychosis that I highly recommend if you want to hear more.

Postpartum Depression, Postpartum Anxiety, and Intrusive Thoughts with Dr. Catherine Schmidt

Postpartum Rage and How To Manage It With Dr. Ashurina Ream

Confronting Postpartum Psychosis with Ayana Lage - Ayana’s journey with postpartum psychosis

Also along the same lines as the above — the American Motherhood Tour may be coming to a city near you! It’s worth knowing about if you haven't come across it yet. It's a nationwide screening initiative from the national nonprofit Moms First, built around the documentary No Country for Mothers. The film digs into how economic policy, workplace structures, and cultural narratives fail mothers. Beyond the screenings, the push is for real structural change, paid leave and affordable childcare chief among them.

Join me here on Wednesday!

New - The Hive Mind

One of my favorite things about this community is that you have so many great recommendations and this newsletter doesn’t just need to be my voice, it can include yours too! So, I’m starting something new. Each week I’m going to ask one question and then take your answers and weave them into the following week’s newsletter.

This week’s question is:

Tell us about the recipe in permanent rotation at your house

I hope that this question may inspire others to get into something new this summer that makes you feel happy :)

*respond by hitting the “message Lynzy” button below

Last week’s question was….

What is your most used app on your phone that you want to recommend to others?

Answers below…

“We always used the IMDb app to watch a preview of a movie we’re interested in, check out its rating and read about the actors! Love it!”

“Brick. I just lock myself out of it completely. lol 10/10 recommend for someone with little self control or disassociates into their phone like me.”

“Fav phone app right now is “fish verify”. My 9 year old son is very into fishing this summer and every time he catches one we enter it in the app so we can see what type of fish it is and track his catches!”

“My most used app is the Libby app through our local library!”

“Cozi is a great app to share to-do lists, grocery lists, etc. I love it!”

“Madeleine Moves is my favorite workout app, use it every day.”

“If you like getting alerts when items you want go on sale, highly recommend the Karma app!”

“Libro.fm is way better than audible if you like reading books. You can support your local bookstores with your purchases as well.”

“Needed to share this app. It’s like Shazam for bird calls. As it listens it gives you live updates as to what birds you’re hearing. I was blown away".”

Personally, I love the eweather app for predicting weather in CT - he does such a great job!

Acadia

Our trip to Acadia was a blast. It was so good to see Ailsa and David again! I am planning on putting together a complete itinerary with photos soon so stay tuned for that! Until then, here are a few photos….

Thrifting

I had a few hours to check out Recollective in Bridgeport this weekend and it did NOT disappoint. They were even filming for a thrifting show with Lara Spencer!

I do believe that when I am finally done being a PA in the ED, I will open up my own thrift shop where I curate my favorite home decor and style items. I just love the hunt.

Items I scored: this amazing blue crossbody that fits my phone, lip gloss, keys and more // a gorgeous cropped denim jacket // this old vintage framed watercolor print

What’s On The Menu?

Monday: Crispy Garlic Chicken Noodles

Tuesday: Make your own tacos

Wednesday: Beef & Pepper Rice Bowls

Thursday: Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw

Friday: leftovers

TOPS: Old Navy Snug Crop Tank, Jenni Kayne Cashmere Sweater

PANTS: Coalatree Trail Pants

SHOES: Birkenstock Sandals

ACCESSORIES: COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent, Goodr Sunglasses, Hiking Backpack

TOPS: Old Navy Snug Crop Tank, Femme Royale White Pullover

PANTS: FP Champ is Here

SHOES: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex Waterproof Trail Running Sneakers - mine are old but they have new colors/versions here

ACCESSORIES: COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent, Goodr Sunglasses

TOPS: Quince Cinched Rain Resistant Jacket, DSG Neon Pullover

PANTS: Columbia Brea Pants in black - love the fit of these - currently sold out but you can find them on eBay or Poshmark. Here is another similar option as well (but wide leg)

SHOES: Nike Metcon Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent, Goodr Sunglasses, Hiking Backpack

TOPS: Quince Cinched Rain Resistant Jacket, DSG Neon Pullover

PANTS: Columbia Brea Pants in black - love the fit of these - currently sold out but you can find them on eBay or Poshmark. Here is another similar option as well (but wide leg)

SHOES: Nike Metcon Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent, Goodr Sunglasses, Hiking Backpack, Everyone Watches Women’s Sports Hat

TOP: Quince Vest

SHORTS: Trailhead Shorts

SHOES: Nike Metcon Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

• Love this bra set from EBY - currently 15% off!

• Abercrombie: 25-50% off jeans

• Anthropologie: Up to 30% off Furniture, Decor and Halloween

My Picks: Hale Dresser, Animal Notepad, Wiggle Switch Plate, Ghost Ceramic Candle Holder, Halloween Watercolor Notebook, New York Autumn Puzzle, Sonny Indoor/Outdoor Rug,

• Athleta: 30% off sports bras and leggings

My Picks: Transcend Open Back Tee, Elation Legging, Trainknit Tank, Square Neck Bra, Airy Cotton Shorts

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

• READ || Where Do Conspiracy Theories Come From? | Kite & Key Media → Social media makes conspiracy theories more visible but they aren’t anymore prevalent than they were hundreds of years ago. What is it that makes conspiracy theories so irresistible? This video goes into it…..

• WATCH || Big Mistakes | Netflix → We were told that this show was similar to Widow’s Bay (I think it is very different but I can understand how some could come to that conclusion). It’s so good though and I highly recommend it!

• READ || Hate is still a public health emergency — and the epidemic we keep ignoring | Advocate → This is an absolute must read.

“When I first described hate as an infectious agent like a virus, bacterium, or parasite, some people thought it was metaphorical. It wasn’t. Hate has vectors — politicians, influencers, extremist networks. It has reservoirs — discriminatory laws, social stigma, misinformation ecosystems. And it has symptoms: shootings, assaults, harassment, chronic stress, and the erosion of community resilience.”

Listening to this on repeat….

• This Honest sensitive rich cream helps a lot with eczema prone skin!

• Not sure what it is about this dress but I really love it….

• Okay so word on the street is that this device is equivalent to a spa hydro facial and I am excited to test it out. Stay tuned for the feedback! Have you tried it yet?!

• My badge reel for work broke so I had to get a new one and these are just so pretty!

• The world’s FIRST solar powered ambulance has arrived - cool!

• Tree House Brewery came out with a JIMOTHY beer and YOU KNOW I GOT IT.

  

• One of the things I am learning is how important physical therapy is for children who play a lot of sports. Our oldest is taking a break from running and squats/lunges right now and concentrating on the weaknesses - this was an awesome pilates workout we just did together!

• The new head of the CDC (Dr. Erica Schwartz) stated in her confirmation hearing this week that “Abortion surveillance is absolutely a critical component of what the CDC is currently doing. I also want to make sure that certain states are not conflating emergency services and hiding abortions in that emergency services case definition” —> right, because we don’t have 389248903 other things to be worrying about right now so let’s focus on ABORTION SURVEILLANCE? Is this a joke?

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• This bookcase is beautiful

• Upholstered dining chairs that come in a variety of different prints

• I love the detail on this rug and the color is stunning (3 other colorways available as well)

• I’ve been waiting for these scalloped switch plates to go on sale…

• This antique brass magazine stand is exactly what I hope to find thrifting some day….

• Oak View Landscape framed print

• This handmade embroidered jacket is beautiful and a one of a kind find.

• I consider myself a connoisseur of seltzer and this one is amazing!

• Found this book in a cute little shop in Maine and it’s a great one for kids. Teaches them bigger words in a fun way!

• Creatine is the one supplement that I would recommend on a daily basis. It is safe and well studied. It can help women build lean muscle and improve strength, especially when paired with resistance training. Creatine may also help with with mental sharpness, especially since brain creatine levels drop naturally as women approach menopause. When these levels drop it can lead to issues like brain fog and difficulty concentrating. A daily dose of about 5 grams is the most commonly studied amount, and while more research is needed specifically in perimenopausal women, the current evidence is encouraging.

Here is the creatine I like

Share Badass Matriarch

🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

• Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.

• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

  Subscribe now

• Use the referral link below to introduce a friend!

  Refer a friend

I’ve spent over 18 years in Emergency Medicine. I have seen women at the worst moment of their lives come through those ED doors, and there is almost always mis…

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Maine can be brisk at night, even in the summer so layers are key (especially if you are spending time out on the water). I made sure to pack a few good layers with me as well as a waterproof jacket if needed.

Whenever we venture out for National Park trips I rarely bring “regular” clothing with me since we are usually just in our hiking gear most of the time.

I created 10 outfit looks below but there are many other combinations that I could have made (with more time on my hands)! But the great thing about these items is their versatility.

Below the paid fold:

• Details on all the items I am packing for our Acadia trip

• 10 different outfit ideas with all the items

As always, thank you so much for your support with my publication, you are MUCH appreciated.

Read more

Happy Friday!

I am working today and then we are off to Acadia tomorrow! Ailsa is flying in and we will drive a few more hours to mark it “halfway” and stay over for the night before continuing on to Acadia. Thank you all SO much for your recommendations. Our itinerary is looking pretty darn good. We had to adjust some things due to one of our kids still being non-weight bearing but we will make the best of it! I will share everything about the trip once we are back for those of you who want to plan a trip there!

Acadia Outfit Packing List will be coming out on Monday morning!

I am on day 23/25 of the 25 day pilates challenge with Izzy and let me tell you, I think this is what I’ve been needing?! The focus on the hips and glutes has been awesome for our 12 year old who has been doing it with me too. I have always despised workouts that don’t make me sweat but I am really enjoying the change of pace with Pilates. Highly recommend!

*FYI - 19 million eggs have been recalled from Kroger’s for possible salmonella contamination. Please check it out here if you have bought eggs there recently.

New - The Hive Mind

One of my favorite things about this community is that you have so many great recommendations and this newsletter doesn’t just need to be my voice, it can include yours too! So, I’m starting something new. Each week I’m going to ask one question and then take your answers and weave them into the following week’s newsletter.

This week’s question is:

What is your most used app on your phone that you want to recommend to others?

I hope that this question may inspire others to get into something new this summer that makes you feel happy :)

*respond by hitting the “message Lynzy” button below

Last week’s question was….

What is your favorite cleaning product or item you couldn’t live without?

Answers below…

“Homemade vinegar and water solution for stainless steel appliances. Appliances are super clean, no oil for dog hair or dust to cling to and non toxic. So much better than any ss cleaner I’ve used in the past”

“Bon Ami, roomba, scrub daddy scrub sponges”

“The Bissell vacuum that works awesome for pet hair!”

“I love using my Swedish sponges for cleaning and wiping washed items, making them almost dry!”

“Cordless vacuum”

“A few favorites: drywall patch kit, glass cleaner by sprayway, pink stuff cleaner and compressed air duster (great for clearing out fire alarms, dust in the car, dust near your computer, etc)”

“100% the shark steam mop”

Weekly Wulfgar

I can’t with him.

SWEATSHIRT: Parks Project Defend the Parks Sweatshirt

SHORTS: Sweat shorts I’ve had from Amazon for years - no idea why but I pull for them quite a bit

SHOES: APL Sandals

ACCESSORIES: COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent

TANK: Athleta Transcend Open Back Muscle Tank

LEGGINGS: Athleta Elation Sport Stripe Leggings

SHOES: Nike Metcon Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

• My Favorite Baseball Cap: Currently 25% off!

• The Farmer’s Dog: Get 50% off your first order here! Have you ever tried it? The Farmer’s Dog takes everything into account when creating a diet plan for your dog. It’s real food and vet approved. Read the reviews here.

• I love the Nike Aeroswift line and some of the items are currently on sale!

• Anthropologie: Get $50 off $150 or $100 off $300+

My Picks: San Marco Braided Mirror, The most beautiful switch plates, in love with this jumpsuit, love the fit of this denim

• Athleta: 40% off lightweight styles

My Picks: Transcend Open Back Tee, Skyline High Rise Barrel Pant, Trekkie High Rise Jogger, Airy Cotton Shorts

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

Acadia Outfit Configurations….

TOP: Old Navy Snug Crop Tank, Travis Mathew Bomber Jacket

PANTS: FP Champ is Here

SHOES: Nike Metcon Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: Ultimate Direction Mountain Backpack, Blenders North Pack Sunglasses

TANK: Athleta Transcend Open Back Muscle Tank

LEGGINGS: Athleta Elation Sport Stripe Leggings

SHOES: Nike Metcon Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: Ultimate Direction Mountain Backpack

• READ || The Party of McCarthy’s Lawyer Wants You to Panic About Communists Again | In Recipts We Trust Substack → You’ve probably heard a lot about this “communist” talk lately. While we roll our eyes at the name calling, actual policy is moving underneath it. Executive orders targeting protest movements. The DOJ is making it a priority to strip citizenship from naturalized Americans. This is a must read.

• LISTEN || The Ten News | Kids Podcast → this is an award winning podcast for kids ages 8-12 that breaks down current events, science, sports, and pop culture.

• WATCH || Castle Impossible | HBO Max → A show about Daphne, a French woman who inherited her grandfather’s 500 year old French chateau and their journey with renovating it.

• READ || What Happens When Women ACTUALLY Get State-of-the-Art Medical Care in Menopause? | The Vajenda Substack → This is a GREAT read and if you are age 45-55, be sure to see if you can enroll in this study. I envision a future where we invest in perimenopausal/menopausal care a hell of a lot more than we do now…..

  The Vajenda

  What Happens When Women ACTUALLY Get State-of-the-Art Medical Care in Menopause?

  Readers of The Vajenda have been incredibly helpful at filling studies that I have promoted, and so I am hoping we can help recruit and quickly fill this new, important study…

  Read more

  a month ago · 190 likes · 12 comments · Dr. Jen Gunter

• If you are looking to have a social beverage but don’t want alcohol, Cann seltzers are a great alternative option. I highly recommend the hi-boys for 5 mg THC/10 mg CBD OR the Hi’er boy with 10 mg THC. If you’ve never tried THC, go with the lower THC here.

• A Seattle artist named Ryan Henry Ward auctioned off his painting of Jimothy and donated 100% of the proceeds to a local food bank. The initial sale inspired massive corporate matches from companies like Amazon, T-Mobile, and Alaska Air and he raised in total - over $45,000! So cool.

• Read this if you want to shrink your digital footprint…..

• I know there is quite a bit of drama about keeping the clocks instead of switching them every fall and spring - here is what the science says.

• Private Medicaid information just being leaked all over the damn place.

• If you have a Costco membership, I highly recommend scooping up this Dr. Reju-All PDRN Cream. I’ve been using it for about 7 weeks now and it’s magical. I use it at bedtime and it’s very hydrating. I swear it’s made a huge difference in my skin.

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• Loving the rich brown tone of this rug

• Never seen a fan that looked this sleek….

• If you have space on a wall that you don’t know what to do with, a large pine tree print is always a good idea

• Still one of my favorite things I’ve ever bought for our home…

• beautiful block printed tea towel

• I love the blue piping around this velvet lumbar pillow

• Velvet Scallop Edge Pillow in blue

• The cutest little ghost bookend light!

• These taco ranch bites look like the perfect side to bring to your next picnic/gathering!

• If you like Pinot Noir, do yourself a favor and get yourself a bottle of Octopoda Russian River Pinot Noir

• The Big Ratchet → I stumbled on this book this week and I feel like we could all use this read right now.

Share Badass Matriarch

🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

• Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.

• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

  Subscribe now

• Use the referral link below to introduce a friend!

  Refer a friend

Happy Friday!

Lots to chat about in today’s newsletter but not a ton of time to pull it together! One of our children had surgery this week for osteochondritis dissecans. The surgery went better than expected. Sometimes the MRI can “overread” this condition and when they went in, it didn’t look as bad as they were expecting, which is great. Now the recovery process begins! If anyone has any tips keeping a VERY active kid busy during this time, I am all ears.

Last weekend I had a quick college girls trip to Lake Winnipesaukee and it stole my heart. The view below reminded me a lot of the Grand Tetons….

I am determined to save money now to buy a place that we can rent out as an Airbnb or something near here. Have any of you actually done that? Is it worth it?!

PS. If you ever go up there and want to go out on a boat, I highly recommend Captain Bill. He is a retired firefighter/paramedic and he donates 100% of his proceeds to hemophilia (his grandson was diagnosed 13 years ago). He is an amazingly kind human.

ShopMy

If you’ve ever asked me how affiliate links work and if you could use them - you can! I use strictly ShopMy now for my affiliate links and they are running a referral push through the end of June. If you sign up as a creator through my link, I get a bonus as you level up on the platform. ShopMy is one of the easier ways to start monetizing content you’re already making anyway. You could just be nonchalantley sharing a recommendation on any platform and use an affiliate link to make some money (a great way to get paid for recs).

Try it Here!

New - The Hive Mind

One of my favorite things about this community is that you have so many great recommendations and this newsletter doesn’t just need to be my voice, it can include yours too! So, I’m starting something new. Each week I’m going to ask one question and then take your answers and weave them into the following week’s newsletter.

This week’s question is:

What is your favorite cleaning product or item you couldn’t live without?

I hope that this question may inspire others to get into something new this summer that makes you feel happy :)

*respond by hitting the “message Lynzy” button below

Last week’s question was….

What is your favorite adult board game OR kid’s board game?!

Results….

We love the card game Play Nine and the board game Ticket to Ride. Adults only- we love Euchre.

We love Telestrations

Adults / older kids - Dominion! Many expansion packs to add on to the original. There’s an app you can use to randomize which cards are laid out for a game.

Adults / kids that can read - bananagrams! There’s a younger kids version too.

The very best game for 2-4 year olds is Haba’s “First Orchard” we play it almost every night and my boys love it!

Wingspan is a great game for adults

Apples to Apples we love that as a family and of course cards against humanity for adults

Code names! The picture version

Outfoxed and Taco Cheese Goat Pizza!

Summer Salad

This is a go-to for me during the summer.

Purple onion, avocado, beets, tomatoes and cucumbers in balsalmic vinaigrette and some spices

Lake Winni….

TOP: Favorite Old Navy Tank, Quince Sweater Cardigan

PANTS: Favorite Travel Pant - Ruti ‘On the Loose’ Pants (Code: LYNZY15 for 15% off)

SHOES: very old sandals from Old Navy (my favorites)

ACCESSORIES: COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent, Natalie Borton Bag

DRESS: Jenni Kayne Drift Dress - I don’t know why they no longer carry this dress because it’s my absolute favorite and it’s a dream to wear! Here is a similar one!

SHOES: very old sandals from Old Navy (my favorites)

ACCESSORIES: Free People Bra, COROS Watch, Baublebar Fish Earrings, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent

TOP: Free People Tank

SHORTS: Nike Aeroswift Shorts

SHOES: Nike Metcon Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: Gymshark Bra, COROS Watch

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

• Abercrombie Kids Sale: 30% off 5+ items or 20% off 3-4 items

• Take an extra 30% off sale items at Shopbop with code: EXTRA30

MY PICKS: Vince Lotus Sandals — Anine Bing Denim — Sam Edelman Farrin Sandals — Jenny Bird Bangle — Jenny Bird Woven Square Earrings — Eugenia Kim Hat

• Laundry Sauce at Target: Save $15 when you spend $50 on home care items

  My favorite laundry detergent pod scent here

• Anthropologie: 30% off new fall arrivals and extra 50% off sale items!

  Cotton Batwing Shirt is the perfect buttondown, digging the shape of these utility pants, + this basic cotton sweater

• Athleta: Additional 30% off Sale Items

  Mesh Racer Shorts, Signature Rib Tee, Salutation Shorts, + this one shoulder built in bra tank

• Nordstrom Anniversary Sale - for the most part I skip this but there ae a few recommendations I have below….

MY PICKS: Monica Vinader Hoops — FP Eclipse tee — Vitality Cloud Leggings — Noth Face Cropped Water Repellent Jacket — North Face Pullover — love this deodorant — Kids Save the Duck Puffer Jacket — Coalatree (love this outdoorsy brand) Sunay Long Sleeve — I have these pants in yellow and love them, especially for hiking

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

Acadia Outfit Configurations….

TOP: Patagonia Pullover — Vuori Energy Crop Tank

SHORTS: Coalatree (love this outdoorsy brand) Trailhead Shorts

SHOES: My favorite hiking boots

ACCESSORIES: Ana Luisa Earrings, Molten Pendant Necklace, Juliet Sunglasses

TOP: Quince Vest, Nike Tee

SHORTS: Athleta Salutation Shorts

SHOES: My favorite hiking boots

ACCESSORIES: Ana Luisa Earrings

• WATCH || Ride or Die | Prime → I have been hearing some amazing things about this feel good show! Add it to your must watch list.

  

• READ || The Government is Now Monitoring You on the Internet | The PreAmble Substack → Well, this is interesting……

• If you own a pair of Birks, do yourself a favor and sandpaper them to make them look like new.

• I am so deeply upset about all the current wildfires that are blazing across the world. The people that are displaced, the animals that are in harm’s way and the devastation of watching our beautiful forests burn. What will it take for us to give a shit about the world we are leaving our babies?

• At one point last week we got a notice saying that there was e.coli in our water and that it needed to be boiled. Thankfully we are on well water (the first and only time I have ever been grateful for it).

• So I did a little dive into Dave’s Killer Bread recently. We’ve been buying it for years thinking it was “good” for us and the truth is, it’s not worth the extra money (can you believe it!?)

Dave’s slices are huge, which makes the protein look impressive but it’s not. By weight, all four breads have nearly the same protein, but Dave’s has the most sugar of the bunch, and cane sugar is listed before the 21 grains on the label. Anywho, save some money on your bread on your next grocery trip!

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• I scooped up this guy named “Tank” at a gift shop in NH for our child after surgery (I never want to mention the name of our kids so I am purposely vague here) - I cried when I read the inside tag → “Tank is so strong - he was built to power through any challenge ahead!” → perfect!

• This gorgeous quilt/sham set was restocked!

• The colors of her pottery make me smile

• We needed a really good air mattress to travel with as well as to just have here at the house and this one is pretty amazing so far. Our post surgery child has been sleeping on it in our room all week.

Share Badass Matriarch

🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

• Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.

• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

  Subscribe now

• Use the referral link below to introduce a friend!

  Refer a friend

Happy Friday!

It’s been a SHIT WEEK.

It started off with a huge storm on the 4th of July that took out many trees on our street. It took out our power and blocked us from getting out of our street. Our child was supposed to have surgery this week but the slot was given away - long story that ended in me calling patient relations too many times. Our fire alarms kept going off on Monday night for no reason and a million other stupid small things that have now left me feeling pretty numb inside. But, we push on!

This weekend I am off on a planned college girlfriends weekend in New Hampshire. I am excited to relax for a little while and try to take some deep breaths. Monday is surgery day for our child that was diagnosed with OCD. If you can, we would love any good vibes you want to send our way ❤️

Added more to my Poshmark closet this week.

New - The Hive Mind

One of my favorite things about this community is that you have so many great recommendations and this newsletter doesn’t just need to be my voice, it can include yours too! So, I’m starting something new. Each week I’m going to ask one question and then take your answers and weave them into the following week’s newsletter.

This week’s question is:

What is your favorite adult board game OR kid’s board game?!

I hope that this question may inspire others to get into something new this summer that makes you feel happy :)

*respond by hitting the “message Lynzy” button below

Last week’s question/answers are below!

Tell us the ONE toy/item in your house that your kids interact with the most.

“Favorite and most played with kids toy is magna tiles! The opportunities are endless!”

“They play for hours with their dad’s old Star Wars toys from the early ‘90s. Both our 5-year old boy and 3-year old girl love them!”

“Yoti mini! It’s a great, screen free way to entertain kids. My 6 and 10 year olds both love it. Great for car rides too because you can use headphones on them.”

“We love board games and Ticket to Ride and Catan are currently high on the list”

“Rocket launchers!”

“Love this hive mind feature! 9-month old at home and number one toys for him are stacking rings and a pot and silicone spatula he can bang on the pot 🤪”

“Bubbles, bikes, and anything with water play!”

“Legos!”

“The toys my girls still play with again and again are Magna Tiles and Baby Dolls.”

“Our kids love playing Capture the Flag with friends!”

“My kids have been obsessed with Rubik’s cubes lately…”

Cyclosporiasis

I know, everyone is freaking out about this nationwide right now because who the hell wants days/weeks of explosive diarrhea. NOT ME.

Cyclosporiasis is a parasite that is spread through water or food contaminated with feces. The main symptom is watery, often explosive diarrhea. You can also get fever, stomach cramps nausea and vomiting. Sympstoms usually show up within one week but ranges 2 days - 14 days.

We do not currently know the source of the current outbreak.

Here are a few facts that may help you:

• this is treatable with antibiotics (Bactrim) so if you are feeling very ill, please get seen by your provider.

• cook it or peel it when it comes to your food right now

• canned or frozen veggies and fruits are safe swaps

• I would skip any bagged lettuce

• Washing helps reduce risk but risk is still there

• You cannot catch this from anyone else

• Pets cannot get this

• Buying local is low risk - so do that if you can!

• Share

What’s On The Menu?

Monday: Grilled Cheese with veggies - something easy!

Tuesday: Fajitas

Wednesday: Chicken Crust Casear Salad

Thursday: Street Corn Steak Rice Bowls

Friday: leftovers

I promise to have some outfits soon. Right now I am just trying to get through each day and my outfits are the least interesting thing about me ;)

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

• Laundry Sauce at Target: Save $15 when you spend $50 on home care items

  My favorite laundry detergent pod scent here

• Anthropologie: 30% off new fall arrivals!

  Cotton Batwing Shirt is the perfect buttondown, digging the shape of these utility pants, + this basic cotton sweater

• Athleta: 30% off Performance Styles

  Mesh Racer Shorts, Signature Rib Tee, Salutation Shorts, + this one shoulder built in bra tank

• The VintageSoft line at GAP is a dream and now 50% off!

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

TOP: One Shoulder Ribbed Tank

PANTS: Zara Skort

SHOES: TKEES Mia Napa Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Handmade Sasi Bag, Ana Luisa Earrings, Baja Sunglasses

TOP: Gap Linen Tank

SKORT: Linen Skort

SHOES: TKEES Mia Napa Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Silk Bandana for Hair, Gemma Anklet, Ana Luisa Earrings, Baja Sunglasses

• READ || The End of Reading is Here | The Atlantic → Yikes! Pick up a book this week……

“Some 2,000 years later, under very different circumstances, the darkness is gathering again. Americans, once members of a proudly literate society, read much less than they used to. According to the National Endowment for the Arts, which conducts the most comprehensive survey of the nation’s reading habits, fewer than half of all adults reported having read a book of any kind in 2022. Only 38 percent read a novel or short story. A study analyzing 236,000 responses to the American Time Use Survey found that the proportion of Americans who read for pleasure on any given day fell from 28 percent in 2004 to 16 percent in 2023. (The study looked at people who had read a book, magazine, or newspaper; listened to an audiobook; or read an e-book.) Gambling has become a more common leisure activity than reading a book: Last year, 57 percent of Americans placed a bet.”

• WATCH || 25 Day Challenge | Pilates by Izzy → I told you that I was starting this a few weeks ago and I did miss a few days but I am on day 16 and it’s kicking my ass. I am still doing my other workouts in addition to it but I do notice a huge difference and it feels good to move in a “slower” way but still feel a burn. Highly recommend!

• READ || The Next Era of Vaccine Governance | Community Immunity Substack → This was a great reframe that everyone should read!

• READ || The Hundred Dresses | Eleanor Estes → I just wrote this one down to read with our 10 year old. It’s a great book for girls who are yearning to be accepted by their peers. In the book, the main character is ridiculed by her classmates for wearing the same dress every day. It’s a tale about bullies, bystanders and having the courage to speak up….

• This made me LOL

• Have you ever tried The Farmer’s Dog?! Genuinely curious what you think…let me know!

• The perfect every day hoops

• TIP: One of our friends put together a one page “story” for our child that is having surgery on Monday. She made it with Claude and our child really loves referring to it to go over the diagnosis, expectations and recovery. I highly recommend doing this if your child is getting a procedure/has a recovery coming up soon! Just type in the child’s age, diagnosis and what the expected course is and what you want them to focus on along the way. Have it put into a comic book strip form to make it more interesting for kids!

Share

Sorry for the fall decor but I am looking forward to it!

Calla Charcoal Rug - Code: LYNZY15

Handwoven Rattan Storage Chest

Handwoven Pumpkin

Brass tripod plant stand

Set of 2 Braided Metal Taper Candles

Textured Woven Throw Pillow

Loving this skeleton hand….

• These sneakers are freaking awesome.

• I ended up buying a yoto mini after so many people recommended one - for our child after surgery!

• Brass skeleton hand - I love Halloween decor and this one got me

• I think I want this in our entryway

This is something I keep re-reading this week. Some of this week felt so suffocating. I won’t go into details but I know some of you may feel this one too….

Share Badass Matriarch

🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

• Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.

• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

  Subscribe now

• Use the referral link below to introduce a friend!

  Refer a friend

Happy Friday!

What a week. We are over here boiling in New England with heat indexes reaching 108 degrees+ which has been super fun. I am already done with summer and I am ready for crisp 60 degree fall days….

We have been navigating a diagnosis of osteochondritis dissecans in one of our kids this week and it has really thrown us for a loop. Surgery is in the near future and it is heartbreaking watching one of your kids work through all of the emotions of it all. Honestly, it’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do as a parent and sleep has been difficult. I know in the end everything will work itself out but right now it’s really hard. Sometimes sitting in the hard is the best that you can do….

If you have any fun ideas of things that kids can do while in recovery, send them my way. My plan is art lessons online, lots of board games/puzzles, being active with the upper body, reading, etc.

If you’ve been to Acadia/Bar Harbor Maine, which trails were your favorite that are stroller friendly?

New - The Hive Mind

One of my favorite things about this community is that you have so many great recommendations and this newsletter doesn’t just need to be my voice, it can include yours too! So, I’m starting something new. Each week I’m going to ask one question and then take your answers and weave them into the following week’s newsletter.

This week’s question is:

Tell us the ONE toy/item in your house that your kids interact with the most.

I hope that this question may inspire others to get into something new this summer that makes you feel happy :)

*respond by hitting the “message Lynzy” button below

Last week’s question was:

Tell me the number one item you have in your closet. Something you would never get rid of.

Your Answers:

Donni eco-fleece oversized sweatshirt

Ruti on the loose work pants (I second these!)

Leset margo tee

Birkenstocks (Sandals and Clogs)

Broken in leather jacket

Vintage trench coat - Reed Vintage is a great place to find one of these!

J.Crew cashmere crewneck

The deep end button down shirt

TOTEME T-lock shoulder bag

A beautiful pair of gold hoops

Pilates Update

The Pilates by Izzy 25 day challenge has made me realize how incredibly difficult pilates can be. I am currently on day 11 and every single day is a struggle 😅, in a good way. I typically enjoy workouts that are intense but this has been a great change of pace.

Our Summer Plan

I wrote about our plan for the kids this summer and the system we have in place for them.

READ IT HERE

Wallpaper is up!

My friend and I put up the wallpaper this week and I am in love with the final product! There is a small area that wasn’t covered with the wallpaper so I have to order more (dammit!) but otherwise, it’s done! I am so excited about this before & after!

I love the texture of the faux grasscloth wallpaper.

Paradis Wallpaper

What’s On The Menu?

Monday: Bang Bang Shrimp Skewers

Tuesday: Drunken Noodles sub chicken

Wednesday: BBQ chicken, corn on the cob, potatoes

Thursday: Ground Beef Hot Honey Bowls

Friday: leftovers

I didn’t take photos of any of my outfits this week - back next week.

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

• Ruti: my favorite pant of all time is 15% off.

• Ruggable: 20% off summer sale styles

• Anthropologie: Up to 40% off home + extra 50% off sale items

  I love these stoneware bowls, gorgeous hale dresser, poolside knit mini dress, braided wall mirror, seafolly swimsuit

• Abercrombie: 20-40% off almost everything

• Aritzia: Up to 50% off everything – Aritzia sales are rare!

• Athleta: Semi-annual sale up to 60% off

  Mesh Racer Shorts, Momentum Flex Tank, Signature Rib Tee, Salutation Shorts, Barrel Pants

• Everlane: Up to 70% off + extra 15% off sale styles

  I have been waiting for a sale like this so that I could pick up these sweatpants!

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

TOP: Old Navy Snug Crop Tank (one of my favorite tanks and so affordable)

SKIRT: Linen Blend Maxi Skirt Slip

SHOES: TKEES Mia Napa Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Ana Luisa Earrings, Chloe Sunglasses, Coach Kisslock Frame Bag

TOP: Free People Movement Intercept Sweatshirt, Old Navy Snug Crop Tank

SHORTS: Aerie Shorts

SHOES: Saucony Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: Ana Luisa Earrings, Madewell Canvas Hat

• READ || 6 things to know about heat illness | Your Local Epidemiologist Substack → Since most of the U.S. is dealing with some of the hottest temperatures we have seen in decades, knowing about heat illness is very important - check out Katelyn’s article!

• READ || ‘It’s dangerous and it’s going to erode trust’: redesign of US government websites stokes surveillance fears | The Guardian → Former DOGE engineers have quietly rebuilt some of the government’s most sensitive websites, including passport applications, voter registration, and the new kids’ savings accounts. The sites ran commercial tracking software designed to avoid ad blockers, with none of the privacy filings federal law requires, and the office’s funding appears nowhere in public records. Awesome.

• READ || The Old World is Dying | Jasmine’s Substack → I really enjoyed this Substack article. It’s written for new grads facing the AI job market, but the advice holds for anyone. Get offline. Network. TALK to people. Be human.

• This hospital in London created a roof garden where patients can get full life support care while enjoying the outdoors - this is WONDERFUL and should become standard at every hospital.

• Another substack I am really digging right now is this one here - a sports scientist who focuses in on peri-menopause/menopausal health.

• The current administration just approved two new forever chemicals to be used on crops this week. Read more here.

• I just love this substack for suggestions on books for middle school aged kids.

• Australian Sandalwood still producing the best smelling laundry out there (dryer sheets too)!

Share

• Making this elote pasta salad for a BBQ this weekend!

• I know, I know. But you all know how much I love Halloween and the fall! These flameless ghost taper candles are so fun!

• Oh, and I had to include this one as well

• Hot tip: I throw one of these “wax melts” into the bottom of our trash cans underneath the garbage bag and it keeps the trash can smelling pretty damn good. My favorite scent of all time is the candied lemon!

Share Badass Matriarch

🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

• Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.

• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

  Subscribe now

• Use the referral link below to introduce a friend!

  Refer a friend

We wanted to give them a schedule to abide by so that their mornings have some structure. So we built a simple frame. Four 20 minute blocks, plus 1 chore, every day. They need to complete all these tasks before they watch TV or use any type of screen (our kids still do not have phones in our home).

I created a printable checklist that you can use for your own kids in case you end up liking this scheduling structure. Keep scrolling to find out more and print it out!

Here’s what’s waiting for you below:

• The exact four blocks we use

• How we handle the kid who pushes back on “why do we have to do this”

• Several ideas for skill building for all ages

• A free printable checklist made for your kids to check off themselves

Read more

Happy Friday!

This was our first full week without school and I think it went pretty well. I will go more in depth next week about what our daily schedule looks like. It’s crazy because I look back to 5-6 years ago when all of the kids went to bed before 7:30 and my husband and I got time to ourselves - that time is LONG gone and most of our kids are not in bed until 9:30 in the summer (getting up around 8 am). I really don’t love not having time to ourselves at night because now there is NO time to catch up and talk without 4 kids also trying to talk but we will figure it out…..

I was also looking a bit more into “outschool” and thinking of letting each kid pick something to learn from there over the summer. You can learn everything from braiding hair to how to make refreshing drinks.

I am starting to work on our Acadia itinerary, thank you to everyone who sent their recommendations. I need to work on our road trip and all the different spots we want to stop at on the way up!

Don’t forget to look out for the 🍓strawberry 🌙moon on Monday!

If you’ve ever asked me how affiliate links work and if you could use them - you can! I use strictly ShopMy now for my affiliate links and they are running a referral push through the end of June. If you sign up as a creator through my link, I get a bonus as you level up on the platform. ShopMy is one of the easier ways to start monetizing content you’re already making anyway. You could just be nonchalantley sharing a recommendation on any platform and use an affiliate link to make some money (a great way to get paid for recs).

Try it Here!

I am trying to clear out my Poshmark closet so please feel free to put together a bundle and send me an offer!

New - The Hive Mind

One of my favorite things about this community is that you have so many great recommendations and this newsletter doesn’t just need to be my voice, it can include yours too! So, I’m starting something new. Each week I’m going to ask one question and then take your answers and weave them into the following week’s newsletter.

This week’s question is:

Tell me the number one item you have in your closet. Something you would never get rid of.

I hope that this question may inspire others to get into something new this summer that makes you feel happy :)

*respond by hitting the “message Lynzy” button below

HERself Podcast

Under the Influence Podcast

The Toast - I like the break from the heaviness of life to laugh and listen to them talk about pop culture.

Podcast: Heavyweight (So good)

Favorite podcast I always go back to is Criminal.

Confession of a female founder with Meghan, Duchess of Sussex — It’s so so good!!

“A Good Hang” with Amy Poehler

The Telepathy Tapes was super interesting. We Can Do Hard Things is essential. Good Inside for parenting. The Retrievals is terrifying. Believed is gut wrenching. Sold a Story is eye opening. Sorry I could go on forever 🤣

Kids Bathroom Updates….

The kids bathroom was one of the first areas of our home that we renovated when we moved in. It had a blue bathtub, blue toilet and blue sinks. At the time, I used a lot of white because I was really sick of the color in the home. After 10 years, I am very tired of the stark white and ready to add color my way. I shared the plan in this post here.

Before….

I finally had a few hours this week to throw up the paint! I am absolutely in love with how warm and inviting it looks now and I almost painted the ceiling too. I stopped short because I still have to add wallpaper and I think painting the ceiling as well may be a bit too much. We shall see!

Color is “Dead Salmon” by Farrow and Ball but I just color matched it with more affordable paint at Home Depot.

What’s On The Menu?

Monday: Taco Pizza

Tuesday: BLTs on sourdough

Wednesday: Grilled Chicken (on grill), corn + potatoes

Thursday: Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potatoes

Friday: leftovers

This is basically what I’ve been living in lately…

TOP: Nike Aeroswift Tank

SHORTS: Outdoor Voices Relay Short (love these so much)

SHOES: Nike Metcon Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: Free People Sports Bra, COROS Watch, Woman Power Necklace, NOYZ Only Human Perfume Scent

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

Mcgee & Co. - up to 70% off

Oak & Linen Memo Board, Goldie Handwoven Indoor/Outdoor rug, Double Swoop Sconce, Annika Pillow Cover, Tan Striped Kids Chair

Misc. Sales

• Rag & Bone Miramar Sweatpants Denim

  I absolutely love their line of sweatpants denim. These are so incredibly comfortable and I always receive compliments when I wear them! They run TTS.

• Dyson Airwrap - $150 off

  I hate to say this but we absolutely love ours. The airwrap is very easy to use and since we have three daughters with long hair, it’s worth the price and then some.

• Nike Vaporfly Sneakers

  These are currently 50% off (!!) and I have never worn a more comfortable running shoe. It feels like you are running on a trampoline and it’s definitely increased my speed.

• Ruggable Sundara Rug

  This rug comes in a few different print colors and it’s stunning. It’s beautiful as a runner or a rug.

• The Perfect Sweatshirt

  This sweatshirt is perfectly lived in right from day one and it’s something you will pull for every day!

• The Best Infant & Child Carrier

  I loved this carrier when my kids were smaller and the best part is that you can use it from newborn stages through 48 months. This would make a great gift for someone that may be expecting!

• Other Noteworthy Mentions: Rag & Bone Slides, my favorite athleisure tank, Le Bop sweater (I cannot believe the price of this - I’ve had it hearted forever and good things come to those that wait!), 50% off swimwear at J.Crew, 20% off at Ulta, 40% off this Target dress I love, Apiece Apart is having their huge sale as well

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

TOP: BR High Neck Tank Top

SKORT: Striped Lyocell Skort (on sale)

SHOES: TKEES Mia Napa Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Ana Luisa Earrings, Molten Pendant Necklace, Juliet Sunglasses

TOP: Double Strap Tank Top

SHORTS: MANGO Shorts with Tie Detail (on sale)

SHOES: J.Crew Knotted Woven Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Ana Luisa Earrings, Molten Pendant Necklace, Juliet Sunglasses

• READ || The insider’s guide to shopping vintage Banana Republic | what’s mine is yours Substack→ I just love BR as a brand and you can really scoop up some amazing pieces in a thrift store. This post breaks down the 10 best items to look out for on your next trip. That trench 😍

• READ || How American Dads Became the Parents Their Fathers Never Were | Derek Thompson Substack → This is something that as a society, we should be very proud of. It’s no longer considered “out of the ordinary” for men to be present with their children. Our kids will grow up knowing that their dad was there and present as much as he could be and it’s pretty freaking great.

  

• READ || My Super Rich Friend… | SugarMamma Substack →

“What I love the most about Anya is that she didn’t arrive here through extreme wealth, status or marrying rich.

She simply refused to subscribe to the madness that so many of us, including me, unconsciously accept as normal. The overcommitting, the constant urgency, the glorification of burnout, the endless stimulation and pressure to always be available, productive and “on”.”

• READ or LISTEN || City of Girls | Elizabeth Gilbert → This is our book club pick this month! Have you read it yet? I am only about 40% of the way through it (I need to speed it up) and I am just now getting into it. It’s one of those books that took me awhile but now I get excited to listen to it whenever I get in my car!

• These bralettes are my favorite.

• In the summer I feel like having a drink in your hand becomes more frequent and I personally love having oHHo seltzers on hand instead. My code: LYNZY15 will get you 15% off. If you’d rather have a gummy instead, those are great too!

• Did anyone get tickets to Daisy Chain Fields?! I am HEART BROKEN that it is in California and I am hopeful that they make this a more regular thing once they see how popular it is!

• As seen in Hartford, CT this week…..👇🏽

  

• I started the Pilates with Izzy 25 day challenge with Ailsa this week and MY GOODNESS. I feel burning in places I didn’t know existed. I consider myself pretty darn fit and it is so hard!

• Old Navy is killing it with this maroon matching set for the fall.

• These are hands down the best sweatpants - the fit is 👌🏼

Share

The Heidi Callier x Joon Loloi collaboration is stunning.

Verena Rug

An adorable stoneware soup mug

Eloise milk glass ceiling light

Hale canvas dresser

I definitely don’t need a baguette bag but my goodness it’s darling

Straw storage basket

Annika Pillow Cover

• Digging the new bralettes from EBY! So many fun color combinations too.

• I’ve been waiting for this gorgeous oak & linen memo board to go on sale….

• My new favorite every day scent…..

• Signed up for this free 5 day art camp that my oldest is going to do with me!

Share Badass Matriarch

🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

• Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.

• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

  Subscribe now

• Use the referral link below to introduce a friend!

  Refer a friend

Item #1: Rag & Bone Miramar Sweatpants Denim

I absolutely love their line of sweatpants denim. These are so incredibly comfortable and I always receive compliments when I wear them! They run TTS.

Item #2: Dyson Airwrap - $150 off

I hate to say…

Read more

Happy Friday!

School is officially out!

The kids have been on a “summer schedule” for weeks now - going to bed way too late and wanting to sleep in. They’ve missed the bus every day for three weeks and I am so excited to be able to have more relaxing mornings!

Our kids are doing a few camps here and there. We can never use camp as childcare because the hours would never work so it’s just a few camps in things that our kids are interested in. Some sports camps, how to sew, singing, and a standard lake/woods camp where they hang out outside all day.

I have quite a bit of content in the works right now including the learning we plan to do over the summer, building skills (a skill list that your kids can choose from) and more. We have a rule in our house that everything needs to be done before a screen goes on (moving your body, reading, learning and chores). I will go more in depth soon!

I am trying to clear out my Poshmark closet so please feel free to put together a bundle and send me an offer!

New - The Hive Mind

One of my favorite things about this community is that you have so many great recommendations and this newsletter doesn’t just need to be my voice, it can include yours too! So, I’m starting something new. Each week I’m going to ask one question and then take your answers and weave them into the following week’s newsletter.

This week’s question is:

What is your favorite podcast to listen to OR your favorite podcast episode?

I hope that this question may inspire others to get into something new this summer that makes you feel happy :)

*respond by hitting the “message Lynzy” button below

Summer “Schooling”

Two of our four kids have dyslexia and the summer slide is real. This year I actually made a plan for all four of them. Something structured enough to keep the momentum going but not super intense. I want them to make it part of their summer routine so that they don’t lose what they learned and they are ready when they go back at the end of August.

Would you all be interested in hearing more about this and what I did? If so, I will create a blog post!

Weekly Wulfgar

What’s On The Menu?

Monday: Roasted Sweet Potato Stacks with Chipotle Sauce

Tuesday: Grilled Chicken Orzo Salad with Avocado with Sourdough Bread

Wednesday: Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado, Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce

Thursday: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Ranch Slaw

Friday: leftovers

A little blurry with low light*

DRESS: Old Navy Jersey Smocked Waist Midi Dress (runs larger, size down one for better fit)

SHOES: Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Rounded Box Chain Necklace (sold out, similar here), perfume, earrings

TOP: One Shoulder Tank with Built in Bra

SKORT: Boho Mini

SHOES: Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Merit Perfume, Roxanne Assoulin Necklace, Natalie Borton Crescent Bag

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

J.Crew Factory has a few great new arrivals that are an additional 20% off $125+

Wide Leg Cropped Denim | Ribbed High Neck Tank | Wrapped Straw Hair Clip | Twist Sandals in gold | Round Frame Sunglasses

Misc. Sales

• I am going to rave about these sneakers forever. It feels like you are running on a trampoline and I have to tell you, they may even get me to enjoy running again. 50% off

• Pottery Barn now has up to 60% off - my picks: Metal outdoor lanterns, Abbott concrete top dining table for outdoors (we have this and love it), artican studio heart object, hammered outdoor drink collection, penelope chair

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

TOP: Oversized Oxford Shirt (you could find a similar one thrifting!)

PANTS: Ruti Uptown Loose Linen Pants

SHOES: M.Gemi Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Handmade Sasi Bag, Ana Luisa Earrings, Mini Snake Necklace, Ryder Sunglasses

TOP: Gap Ribbed Tank

SHORTS: UNIQLO Linen Cotton Shorts

SHOES: Matisse Vacay Sandals (selling fast, more here)

ACCESSORIES: Gemma Anklet, Ana Luisa Earrings, Pebble Necklace

• READ || The Department of Homeland Security Is “Kidnapping People’s Kids” | Mother Jones → It breaks my heart to think of all of the children that have been detained and ripped away from their parents. Many of them wondering what they have done to end up in these camps and getting no answers.

• READ || How To Shop Secondhand Like A Stylist | Gatekept Substack → I love shopping secondhand more than I like buying anything new and some of the tips in this substack post are top notch. Well worth the read, especially if you love shopping secondhand.

• WATCH || Why Kids Need to Take More Risks | TedTalk → As summer is finally upon us and kids are out of school, this is always a great reminder 👇🏼 I wish we could redo all of our playgrounds here in the U.S. and make them open-ended.

• READ || Inside the Conference Recruiting Young Women to be Tradwives | Abortion, Every Day Substack → Madeline Peltz wrote about the Women’s Leadership Summit and it is both fascinating and sickening. The name could not be more misleading. These girls aren’t learning how to lead, they’re learning how to be a good tradwife. WLS pushes young marriage and motherhood, takes a hard stance against birth control, and gives a platform to speakers who want women’s right to vote rolled back. How is that for leadership?

• READ || Why Does the U.S. Fertility Rate Include 14-Year-Olds? | The Maternal Stress Project Substack → I’ve been wondering this myself and found the title of this Substack piece intriguing. In the era of Epstein coming to light this is definitely not surprising and it really pisses me off.

• This tank top is back in stock. Trust me when I say that the fit is perfection.

• How many of you had a pair of these in the ‘90’s?!

• I bought these cute totes for teacher gifts and stuffed them with a towel, sunscreen, chapstick and a gift card!

• If you live on the CT shoreline, be sure to check out e-list’s summer guide!

• Our youngest has a birthday party coming up and I am thinking of doing this in place of “party favors”

• If you are looking for a cute K-12 memory book for school, this one is only $10

• I love two piece outfits because it makes getting ready in the morning 1289% easier (this, this, this & this)

Share

Provence & Coral Rug

I love the color of this arched cabinet

I am going to put this ledge above the door frame in our entry way and place plants on it! (another cute rattan option here)

this beautiful dish is just waiting for a freshly cooked pie

Faux cherry blossom stems

Metal outdoor lanterns currently on sale

• These jeans are back in stock and they really are as amazing as everyone raves they are. Incredible comfortable for denim and a great fit.

• This Lego organizer rolling bin is a great way to store all those Legos!

• I have switched from wearing my Merit perfume to this which just rolls right on and you can easily pack it with you to reapply. The scent is wonderful.

• Joggers that you will love to wear over and over again. Awesome fit.

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🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

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Happy Friday!

How are you all doing as we head into this last week of school?! I’ve been trying to cram in 1:1 sessions with our kids while school is still in session. Yesterday I took one of them to this really cool place in CT called the Pandemonium Rainforest Project. It’s this awesome non-profit that supports the rescue and rehabilitation of exotic animals. They have an awesome thrift store (it’s huge!) where all the proceeds go back to the animals. They also have a wonderful cafe and an area to sit. We found some really great deals including brand new Adidas sneakers for $15, Aviator Nation sweatshirt for $5, a vintage 35mm camera for $30 and vintage band tees for $5.

Anyway, if you are in the area - definitely stop by!

This week’s newsletter is a bit shorter because I ran out of time! The rush to the end of the school year! Almost there!

Father’s Day Gift Ideas

I love this company and the socks are great. They always give back as well - many of the unhoused patients I see in the ED are always wearing them.

Digging this entire ensemble - shirt/swim trunks

Go-to hoodie

This golf drinking game is unique and fun

Birks are always a great gift

I thought these socks were clever and accurate

Huckberry always has some great hats

A fix-it kit that you can bring anywhere with you

The parkside flasks are great - my husband got me one last Christmas - you can customize them too!

This golf scoring tumbler is always a huge hit

THC seltzers are a great gift - the multi-pack is my fav so that you can try each flavor (Code: LYNZY15)

Mountain tumber glasses

Experience gifts are fun - mixology classes, DIY hot sauce, etc.

Upcoming Posts for Paid Subscribers

I have been thinking of the content I wanted to put together in the coming weeks so here is a list of some topics in the works!

• 50 Things to do with your kids this summer (that are low cost or free)

• Summer Capsule Wardrobe for Busy Moms (with affordable items)

• Raising kids who aren't afraid of boredom

• The invisible labor of raising children who learn differently

• What I cook when I have nothing left

• Our go-to smoothies packed with protein, fruits & veggies

  Badass Matriarch is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

  Get 20% off forever

  Badass Matriarch is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Weekly Wulfgar

What’s On The Menu?

Monday: BBQ Salmon Bowls with Mango Avocado Salsa

Tuesday: 20 Minute Korean Beef Sesame Noodles

Wednesday: Breakfast for dinner

Thursday: Honey Mustard Pretzel Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad

Friday: leftovers

No outfits from this week because I didn’t capture any of them!

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

• this tank reminds me of Doen

• 50% off skirts, dresses, swim at J.Crew - my favs: contrast swimsuit, mini dress in linen, scrunch swimsuit, zoe barrel pants, wide brim packable hat

• up to 40% off magnetic tiles - my kids still play with these often - one of our favorite toys in this house

• I am NOT a bermuda shorts fan but these changed my mind

• 20% off the bra-free tanks I always rave about

• 28% off this skincare set that works great for eczema - this is what we use!

• my go-to shorts in the summer - so comfortable!

• huge sale on many of the adidas sneakers

• big sale at Aritzia - lightweight work jacket, corbel skort

• My favorite laundry detergent pods are on sale (Australian Sandalwood) as well as the dryer sheets. These will having your clothes smelling amazing!

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

DRESS: Button Front Crepe Dress

SHOES: Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Gramercy Bucket Bag, Quay Sunglasses, Shell Stud Earrings

Same accessories, changed up the main event…

TOP: Cotton Gauze Tank Top

SHORTS: Cotton Gauze Shorts

SHOES: Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Gramercy Bucket Bag, Quay Sunglasses, Shell Stud Earrings

Will be back next week!

• On June 4th, The House passed a bill cutting $141 million from WIC’s fresh fruits and vegetables benefit. WIC supports more than 5 million pregnant women, new mothers, infants and young children. Now this bill heads to the Senate. Cross your fingers that the Senate does the right thing and keeps fruits and veggies as part of WIC.

• A North Carolina bill 1232 would legalize murder to stop abortions. It would endorse the “use of deadly force” to stop someone from having an abortion. This bill is unlikely to pass because of how unpopular it is but we need to be paying attention to bills like this because they are popping up much more frequently and that’s a huge problem.

Share

• This pasta salad is going to be my go-to dish for bringing to pot lucks this summer

• This new line of bras at EBY 😍

• Does anyone have one of these gymnastics mats? Are they worth it?

• I want to make these pony bead parrots with the kids this summer as one of our crafts

Share Badass Matriarch

🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

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• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

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Happy Friday!

I am barely getting through these next few weeks between work and end of the school year activities but I did manage to come through with some of this week’s newsletter!

I have an entire plan for our kids this summer to make sure that they don’t regress and have some thoughts on dyslexia I want to share with you. I hope to get that into writing in the next few weeks.

My peonies were out of control this year and the smell in my kitchen is heavenly! I am working on my lilacs now because they’re still not thriving and I am having trouble trying to figure out why……

Federal Research Grants

The government proposed a massive overhaul of how federal research gets funded and they gave the public 45 days to respond. That window closes July 13th.

What’s in it?

• Political appointees would be able to override peer review, the backbone of credible science.

• Grants can be cancelled mid-project. If am award is considered inconsistent with “agency priorities”, it can be terminated.

If you want to do something - submit a public comment before July 13th at regulations.gov. Search for docket OMB-2026-0034. You don’t need to be a researcher or someone in the health and sciences field. You just need to care that the science guiding your healthcare isn’t being filtered through a politics.

What’s On The Menu?

Monday: The Viral NO FOLD Ginger Chicken Dumplings

Tuesday: Street Corn Steak Bowls

Wednesday: Dumpling and Smashed Cucumber Salad With Peanut Sauce

Thursday: Big Mac Wraps

Friday: leftovers

DRESS: Apiece Apart Olana Knit Midi Dress

SHOES: Old Navy Sandals (about 10 years old)

ACCESSORIES: Necklace, Perfume, Earrings, Clare V. Grande Fanny Bag

TOP: Athleta Tee

SHORTS: Nike Shorts (such a cute fit!)

SHOES: Nike Metcon Sneakers (love these for a hybrid of lifting and cardio)

ACCESSORIES: Woman Power Necklace

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

30-50% at Aritzia - some of my favorite picks are below:

Soloist sweater | Cozy Foldover Baggy Jogger | Poplin dress | Corbel Skort | BUTTER Sweetheart Sports Dress | Sports Bra with Convertible Straps

MISC SALES:

My favorite baseball hat is on sale!

I wrote about this dress on my Substack notes last week. It’s beautiful on and it’s currently 40% off, making it only $27. Runs TTS

Open Back Dress | Crafted Midi Sundress

These barrel pants are similar to the ones from Ruti (waistband is different) but if you don’t want to pay the high price tag of the Ruti ones, these are a great alternative.

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

SWIM: Swimsuit Top/Bottoms

BOTTOMS: Sarong

SHOES: TKEES Tubular Mia Napa Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Ryder Sunglasses

TOP: Crop Tank Top

SHORTS: Track Shorts

SHOES: Coolway Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: Everyone Watches Women’s Sports Hat, Goodr Sunglasses

• READ || Yesteryear | Caro Claire Burke → I just started reading this at the suggestion of so many and wowzers. As someone who spent years in the influencer space, a lot of it tracks. None of it shocks me. The tradwife thing is fascinating to me and I love the paralells in this book between present day life and the 1800s. There was nothing romantic and sexy about living in the 1800s.

• LISTEN || Best of Ask Lisa: Confidence, Self-Esteem & Self-Compassion | Apple Podcasts → This is one of my favorite podcast listens for raising tweens/teens. This episode is next up on my list!

• WATCH || Thoughts & Prayers | HBO → Have you watched this yet? It's a documentary about the $3 billion industry that's grown up around school shooter drills → the bulletproof backpacks, the survival training, the conferences selling safety products to schools. Yet, there is LITTLE evidence that drills prevent school shootings or protect schools when they occur. Instead, these drills just increase feelings of depression, stress and anxiety among students and staff.

• READ || The Cost of Safetyism | Steve Magness Substack → 84% of 11 year olds aren’t allowed to leave their street. 53% can’t leave their front yard. 92% of 14 year olds can’t leave their neighborhood. I couldn’t believe these percentages when I saw them! The goal of raising children is to make them critically think and be independent but at 14, if they cannot leave their neighborhood — what are we even doing?!

  

• READ || People with cancer or HIV could lose Medicaid under new work rules, advocates say | NPR → The current administration just released new Medicaid work requirements and they’re brutal. Starting January 1, adults ages 19–64 in the more than 40 states that expanded Medicaid will have to prove they’re working, in school, or volunteering at least 80 hours a month. Someone in active radiation treatment for early-stage cancer, or someone living with HIV who can still technically show up to work don’t qualify for an exemption. The CBO projects approximately 5 million people will lose coverage, and the timeline alone is its own crisis. Every day is a new horror in the healthcare field with this administration.

• WATCH || Workouts with Caroline Girvan → These are some of the best free workouts you can get - if you want to start strength training or just want something new, try it!

• I think the linked I used for this was wrong so I am posting it again because it’s so cool! This is an interactive map where you can find free things for kids to do throughout NYC!

• Go to the movie theater for $1 this summer……

• THIS entire thread on marriage…..

• Connecticut passed a simple law - if you are under investigation for child abuse or neglect, you cannot homeschool your kids and EVERY SINGLE Republican voted against it. Make it make sense…..

• Have you read “The Digital Delusion” by Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath yet? It talks about the problems with classroom technology and what can be done about it.

Share

Scallop basket

Celestine Blue Rug

Jordan Floor Lamp

Mid Century Faux Leather Armchair

This scent is divine

Abeille Petite Bee Mirror

This is the exact vintage magazine rack I am trying to find!

• This skort is one of my favorite things to wear in the summer. Looks put together but it’s comfortable and easy to run around in with kids. While we are at it, Quince killed it with this tee.

• These are still my favorite way to launder our clothing

• This dress is less than $50 and would make a great event dress with some heels and great earrings.

• I made this salad last summer and it was delicious

Share Badass Matriarch

🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

• Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.

• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

  Subscribe now

• Use the referral link below to introduce a friend!

  Refer a friend

Here is a picture of the bathroom in it’s current state….

My plan is to add more color and texture! It has a farmhouse vibe to it that I really don’t love anymore so I am switching a few things out to lessen that vibe. Here is some of my inspiration:

Read more

Happy Friday!

Crazy busy week - as they all are this time of year! I am heading into work this afternoon but wanted to hit publish this morning before doing that. We are back to Friday posting instead of Sunday because I like it better ;)

New - The Hive Mind

One of my favorite things about this community is that you have so many great recommendations and this newsletter doesn’t just need to be my voice, it can include yours too! So, I’m starting something new. Each week I’m going to ask one question and then take your answers and weave them into the following week’s newsletter.

This week’s question is:

What is your favorite hobby?

I hope that this question may inspire others to get into something new this summer that makes you feel happy :)

*respond by hitting the “message Lynzy” button below

Last week’s answers are below!

“I think my favorite trip before we had kids was Peru! We hiked the Inca Trail 3 nights/4 days with a private tour group ( just 4 of us) and it was amazing. The tour group has porters who carry all the tents etc and cook all meals which were so delicious. Being up above the clouds in the mountains was so beautiful. The city of Cusco was also great. I definitely want to do this trip again with my kids when they’re teenagers.”

“Best place I ever traveled to- Sedona, Arizona. The beauty of that place is hard to describe but even better is the energy you feel just being there- truly spectacular”

Another vote for Peru -

“Iceland: The pace of life, the vastness and diversity of nature there. I truly felt immersed in nature and was just in awe. The people were incredibly kind. We felt so safe throughout the trip. I would go back again in a heartbeat.”

“Best place I’ve traveled to… it’s a tough one but the Dolomites probably take the prize. Absolutely stunning and a really magical, peaceful energy.”

“Travel: Florence. It’s such a beautiful and amazing city.”

“Marquette, MI - in the Upper Peninsula.Amazing restaurants, hiking, and lots of history all on Lake Superior. We go every summer. Stay at the Landmark Inn, eat at The Vierling, vangos, Border Grill, Elizabeth’s, The Delft Bistro, Lagniappe and Frosty Treats. Visit Presque Isle, Wettmore Landing, sugarloaf and hogsback mountains!”

“Such a hard question. My husband and I have been fortunate to take a gap year and travel the world and literally today we are returning Stateside from living in Mexico with our twins for 6 months. I have so many loves for different reasons beach, culture, people, for kids etc… but for this purpose I will say camper van the South Island of New Zealand! Thank you for your writing and platform”

“I have traveled to 74 countries, 44 of them with kids. Our kids’ favorites: 1) Lapland, Finland! Dog sledding, Santa, reindeer, northern lights, sleeping in a glass igloo, 24 hours of dark, it’s all pure magic. 2) Machaba Lodge, Botswana (safaris in general). Watching elephants roam by while you swim, relax in your tent, and have drinks around a campfire. Listening to animals all night long. Game drives. Now I’m wondering if this should be #1. Oh, and stopping in Zimbabwe first to see Victoria falls and do the longest zipline in Africa (or gorge swing if you’re as brave as my 5 year old son🫣)" Favorite non-kid trips: Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro! Maldives diving trip. And a road trip from South Island New Zealand up to North Island.”

“Best place I’ve traveled to so far is south of France. Stayed in Nice where you get the beautiful sea, fresh seafood, quaint little towns nearby & within an hour or two you can be in Provence with gorgeous lavender fields, vineyards, mountains. There’s so much to do in this area for everyone.”

New Tat

My friend and I went and got tattoos last week and it was a blast. Artemis inspired. Artemis is the ancient Greek goddess of the hunt, the wilderness, wild animals, and childbirth but she is most famously revered as a fierce protector of women and children - which is pretty damn awesome.

Thrifting

I’ve been loving my thrift trips recently. I used to love thrifting but didn’t have a ton of time to do it when all the kids were young. I am getting back into it now and it’s so much fun!

Recent finds include a basket (I love using these for gifts so I collect them), a great oversized vintage flannel shirt, spanish bingo, agility ladder and rings for the kids, and an amazing rattan bowl!

What’s On The Menu?

Monday: Chicken Caesar Smash Tacos

Tuesday: Walking Taco Casserole

Wednesday: Honey BBQ Chicken Wraps

Thursday: Terriyaki Shrimp Rice Bowls

Friday: leftovers

TOP: Femme Royal Cropped Jacket, Adidas Cropped Tank

BOTTOMS: Target Flutter Shorts (from last year, similar here)

SHOES: Nike Sneakers

ACCESSORIES: Rounded Box Chain Necklace (sold out, similar here), perfume, earrings

View All Outfits Here

Sales Worthy of Mentioning:

MISC. SALE

• if you are on the hunt for PlayStation or XBox, there is a great sale on all of these here

• One of the best solar generator systems also on sale

• Nordstrom has a ton of things on sale right now including Hoka sneakers

For sale updates - you can subscribe to my “sale alert” substack here.

TOP: FP Tube Top

SKIRT: Dimitra Linen Column Skirt

SHOES: The Wrap Sandal

ACCESSORIES: Ripple Effect Fish Earring, Crew Link Necklace, Sculpted Metal Wristlet Bag

TOP: Aritzia Tank, Zara Sweatshirt

SHORTS: Nike Sportswear Chill Terry Shorts

SHOES: Birkenstock Sandals

ACCESSORIES: Mercer Claw Clip, Waterproof Anklets

• READ || ‘I see every child like I see my children’: why US mothers are on the frontlines of resistance movements | The Guardian → There are some real badass mothers mentioned in this article. Mothers have always been the ones holding everything together, and now they’re doing it in the streets, at school doors, and inside state legislatures. I swear, we will save the world.

  Honestly though….none of this is surprising. When the systems fail our kids (immigration, gun policy, healthcare, childcare), you stop waiting for someone else to fix it.

• READ || The Life & Times of An American Tween | The New Yorker → As a parent of a tween, I loved this article. A great reminder of what this era of middle school stands for when it comes to individual growth. This age really is my favorite so far.

  I also want to point out that I lost track of how many people made comments on our 3 girls, 1 boy combination and commented on how “hard the girls will be in their teenage years” compared to boys. It makes me seethe because the generalizations are ridiculous and that is not how we, as parents, should be viewing this time of their life.

• READ || Ebola: The disease of compassion, and the price of when “we” became “me” | Your Local Epidemiologist → A MUST READ.

“The most heartbreaking thing about all of this is that radial individualism doesn’t distribute it’s consequences equally. It always funnels suffering downward to the poor, the rural, and the people whose names don’t appear in the articles until they are counted among the dead.”

• WATCH || It’s the Best | The Late Night Show with Stephen Colbert →

• Next trip may be to Canada - NewFoundland looks beautiful!

  

• A great, exhaustive list of movies to watch as a family this summer…..

• This wallpaper is so colorful and fun!

• I am in the midst of creating some home learning programs for the kids this summer. Nothing crazy - about 20 minutes per day. If you are looking for some free programs, try out: Khan Academy and/or Starfall!

• Mamdani put together this hub where you can find free and cheap activities for kids this summer in NYC - pretty damn cool and wild that no one has done this before.

Share

I am currently working on a little facelift for our kids bathroom upstairs. It was one of the first rooms that we renovated when we first moved in in 2015 and it’s outdated and there is too much white. You can see the image of the bathroom currently below. Stay tuned for a post on Monday for the facelift plans! 👏🏼

• I’ve been adding a little more color to my wardrobe and this dress is really gorgeous on!

• + so is this one (I got the purple!) Size down one size for a cuter fit!

• Have you ever stayed at one of the Huttopia locations? We just booked a few days on a whim with friends this summer and we are so excited!

• Embracing more smoothies in the mornings recently because they are quick, easy and nutritious. If you have any go-to combinations, send them my way below!

Share Badass Matriarch

🌻I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.

If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work, including multiple in-depth posts each month. Dive deeper with style guides, peek behind the scenes of our life as a family of 6, get insightful book recommendations, and conquer meal planning with delicious dinner ideas (including protein snack solutions!).

Completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries! Just shoot me an email and we can chat.

Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:

• Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.

• Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.

• Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.

• Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)

  Subscribe now

• Use the referral link below to introduce a friend!

  Refer a friend