Em and I loved reading Chilla Gorilla & Lanky Lemur Journey to the Heart. Chilla Gorilla & Lanky Lemur Journey to the Heart takes you and your child on an adventure to help everyone navigate big feelings while discovering inner peace. Written by New York Times best-selling author Kimberly Snyder and Jon Bier, and illustrated by Donald Wu, this uplifting story takes readers on a jungle journey filled with wisdom, friendship, and emotional growth.
Plot Summary:
Chilla Gorilla befriends Lanky Lemur. Together, they embark on a series of adventures, teaching Lanky how to use his heart’s wisdom to work thought intense, common, emotions like frustration, anger, and fear. Chilla’s mentorship leads Lanky toward harmony, tranquility, and joy. As they explore the jungle, Lanky learns that feelings come and go, but the heart holds a calm place where peace and love can grow.
Key Themes:
Friendship: Chilla and Lanky’s unbreakable bond demonstrates the power of friendship in overcoming challenges. Emilia and I discussed how Chilla helps Lanky get through hard times. I asked her many questions regarding friendships that she has at school, church, and extracurricular activities. I asked her “What makes a good friend?”
Emotional Intelligence: The story emphasizes tuning into our hearts and finding inner peace amidst intense emotions. We have many intense emotions in our home having a school-aged child and toddler, so this was a great reminder of how to work through big feelings.
Resilience: Lanky learns to navigate difficult feelings with Chilla’s guidance. Resilence is a word that Em hears often. A mantra we say together is “Be resilient,” so I feel that Chilla Gorilla & Lanky Lemur Journey to the Heart helps drive this important point.
Located in Hackettstown, New Jersey, Mama’s Cafe Baci has been serving authentic Italian cuisine for over half a century. The Schiano family came from Italy in 1970 and has made Mama’s a Hackettstown staple. Stepping into Mama’s feels like entering a warm, welcoming home — a place where you’re part of the family.
Jason and I recently had a date night at Mama’s where we were served a sampling of dishes and listened to live music. We just received a gift card to Mama’s for our 10th anniversary, and can’t wait to go back for the delicious food and ambiance.
Customized Italian Cuisine
Have dietary restrictions? Fear not, Mama’s offers gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian cuisine. The menu caters to your unique preferences. From classic pasta dishes to stone-fired pizzas, every plate is crafted with care and love.
What Sets Mama’s Apart?
Quality Ingredients: Mama’s sources local ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor in every bite. My kids are a big fan of the pizza — the sauce has the perfect combination of spices and the cheese is delicious!
Diverse Menu: Choose from an array of options, including hearty lasagna, delicate risotto, and mouthwatering seafood. The pear purses are my favorite appetizer so make sure you try those. The cannoli was out of this world, too. Also, try Duets, which are 2 tastes on 1 plate. Jason loves getting the Chicken Parmesan and Penne Vodka Duet. Also, get the cappuccino — we both loved it as an after-dinner treat.
Late-Night Dining: Craving Italian after hours? Mama’s stays open late, satisfying those late-night pasta cravings. (Catch the special where apps are 50% off after 9 PM!)
Private Events: Mama’s has three on-premise event rooms that are perfect for family events (Birthdays, Christenings, Baptisms, Baby and Bridal showers). Cafe Baci & the Rainbow Room are located inside Mama’s. The new Coach Room offers an intimate space for private gatherings, celebrations, and entertainment. The Coach Room is located at 144 Mountain Ave, right down the road. Lastly, Bello Giorno Estate is the perfect wedding reception venue.
Preferred customer key tag: In an effort to be more environmentally friendly, ask for your preferred customer key tag the next time you visit Mama’s and receive 10% OFF your purchase dine in or take out.
Texting Program: To receive special offers, discounts, and promotions, visit here and follow the instructions to join Mama’s texting program.
Wine, Beer, and Cocktails
Pair your meal with a fine wine, a cold beer, or a handcrafted cocktail. Mama’s knows that good food deserves great company. On my next visit, I can’t wait to get a cannoli martini!
Order Online or Dine-In
Whether you’re picking up curbside, enjoying a cozy dinner on the patio, or savoring dessert and coffee indoors, Mama’s Cafe Baci meets all of your dining needs. As a busy mom, we normally do pickup or curbside orders. Outside also includes the Pooch Cafe, where your furry friends can dine with you outside during the warmer months!
Hi everyone! I’m Brittany, a certified pediatric sleep consultant and a family nurse practitioner specializing in pulmonary and sleep medicine. My passion is helping families sleep better at night, allowing them to continue growing and thriving. I believe everyone is happier and in a better headspace when they get adequate sleep. Before becoming certified as a sleep consultant, I helped nearly every family I know get the rest they needed to enjoy parenthood. It never gets old when a client texts me and tells me their child slept through the night, sometimes for the first time!
Danielle contacted me to get some sleep support for her 5.5-year-old daughter, Em. Believe it or not, older children needing assistance at bedtime is something I hear frequently. Em had trouble falling asleep at night without coming out of her room multiple times. She was also waking up in the middle of the night requesting support to help her fall back to sleep. When Danielle and I talked, I knew Em needed the support and confidence to be able to go to sleep independently and fall back to sleep at night! We discussed multiple strategies to help along with 2 weeks of on-demand support from me through text messages. I am excited to report that within a few days, Em is already falling asleep independently and staying in her bed the ENTIRE night! (Most nights), I reinforced to Danielle (and what I tell all of my clients) that consistency and persistence work! I am so proud of both of them for what they can accomplish.
Why did I become interested in baby/children’s sleep?
I am a mother to Noah (5.5) and Talia (2.5) I was the first of my close friends to have a baby. I had NO idea what I was doing. As a newborn, my son never slept. Although everyone kept saying “It will get better!”, after 2-3 months of being up every 1-2 hours each night, it was not getting any better. I asked our pediatrician what to do and his response horrified me. “Let him cry a little”. I was in my head thinking this guy is nuts if he thinks I am going to let my sweet innocent baby “cry a little”! After researching, I realized it is safe for my baby’s development and is effective. One night, when he was developmentally ready, I sleep-trained my son, and I never looked back. This was life-changing for us. With everyone well-rested, I could enjoy the journey of motherhood. Fast forward three years later and I had my daughter. I applied the same strategy and we now have two thriving children who sleep through the night!
Anxiety around sleep training
I completely understand the anxiety around sleep training. I lived it myself with both of my kids. If you’re contemplating sleep training, you likely have a lot of the same thoughts I did running through your head:
“Am I doing the right thing?”
“Is my child going to suffer anxiety throughout their life because I let them cry?”;
“They are only this little once, I should just suck it up and do what they need to get them to sleep”.
My rebuttal to these thoughts:
Yes, you are doing the right thing. For your baby to grow and thrive they need to get adequate sleep at night. Sleeping is when their little brains develop so they can continue to learn new skills
No, your child will not suffer anxiety because of sleep training. All of the research shows that sleep training is 100% safe for your child’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being
These thoughts stem from the mom guilt that creeps through everyone’s mind! As moms, we feel like we are supposed to suffer to meet the needs of our children. It does not need to be this way! You are allowed to get the rest your body needs to be a more well-rested, patient, and present parent during the day.
Sleep Training, Crying, and Controversy
Sleep training is one of the most polarizing parental topics on the internet. Just the phrase “cry it out” can make some people spiral. No shame at all for the families who choose to parent in their particular way, but there should be no shame or hate for those families who lean into options for better sleep for the whole family. The term “cry it out” is very triggering for some people. I like to look at it from a different perspective. When you are sleep training there will be some crying. I cannot tell you how much or how little. The important aspect to remember is that just because your baby is crying, does not mean they are in distress. It means they are communicating that they do not like this new arrangement where they are not being rocked, fed, or nursed to sleep like they previously were. Crying does not mean we are abandoning them or not meeting their needs. We are teaching them a skill! If your child cried while trying to learn to ride a bike, does that mean you would not teach them? No! If they are struggling to learn to read, would you tell them not to worry about it, reading is not important. No! You would parent them and guide them through learning this skill. When we allow our babies to cry while sleep training, we tune in to their needs. We are not tuning out!
When I ask someone why they are so against crying it out, they can never give me an answer that makes me question what I do. For those families uncomfortable with crying, I have scalable approaches to meet families where they are. Some methods take longer than others, but that is okay! I love to meet families where they are. From the bottom of my heart, sleep training benefits the emotional, physical, and mental health of all the families that do it.
As moms, let’s let go of the mom-shaming and pick up on the support! We all have the best intentions and need to remember that each parent does what he/she feels is best for his/her family.
What does a sleep consultant do and why should you hire one?
As a sleep consultant, I give families the tools they need to allow them to support good sleep hygiene habits for their baby, toddler, or older child. I ask my clients to fill out an intake form and I create customized sleep plans based on information provided by each client, based on their goals for their family’s sleep. I strictly adhere to all American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep guidelines. Can families Google some sleep training methods? Absolutely! However, the support that a sleep consultant provides during this time is valuable. I’ve had multiple families tell me that they could not have done it without my support. (Danielle told me that my text messages held her accountable and that my video messages to Em made her happy!) I truly believe that some families need third-party support to navigate this process successfully.
Contact Me
Please contact me if you have questions or need support to sleep train your baby/toddler/preschooler. I would be so honored to help you!
I absolutely love Stitch Fix. I am no fashionista, so ordering fixes that style entire outfits for me is key for looking presentable. I love that I can also order Freestyle items, and don’t have to be locked into a subscription. Returns are also free, too! (You can also score 25% off your first Fix when you keep all 5 items by using my link.) I have purchased dresses, tops, shorts, jeans, and accessories. Every time I wear a Stitch Fix outfit, I get so many compliments! I definitely look more put together!
41 HAWTHORN Morey Cap Sleeve Split Neck Printed Blouse ONE5ONE Trina High Rise Elastic Waist Patch Pocket Cargo Short
What Is Stitch Fix?
Stitch Fixis more than just a clothing subscription service—it’s your personal stylist, fashion confidante, and wardrobe upgrade, all rolled into one. Founded in 2011, this website combines human expertise with cutting-edge algorithms to curate customized clothing items based on your unique style, size, and budget.
How It Works
Style Quiz: Begin by taking a style quiz. Share your preferences, sizes, and budget. The more details you provide, the better your Stylist can understand your taste.
Style Goals: Communicate your style goals. Whether you’re seeking office chic, weekend casual, or a special occasion outfit, your Stylist will curate a “Fix” just for you.
Your Fix Arrives: For a $20 styling fee, you’ll receive a box with 5 hand-picked items. Try them on, mix and match, and decide what to keep. The styling fee is credited toward your purchase.
DANIEL RAINN Abrienne Split Neck Cap Sleeve Linen Blend Knit Top ONE5ONE Luella Mid Rise Coin Pocket Roll Short
Why Stitch Fix?
Human Stylists: Real fashion experts across the U.S. select your pieces. They’re motivated to learn about your evolving needs and find the perfect items.
Personalized Advice: Need tips on transitioning to spring? Wondering how to rock denim this season? Stitch Fix Stylists have you covered.
No Subscription Required: Order on demand or set up regular deliveries—it’s up to you.
Free Shipping & Returns: Keep only what you love. Return the rest with the included label.
Who Can Benefit?
Women: From everyday essentials to statement pieces, Stitch Fix caters to women of all sizes and styles.
Men: Discover polished looks for work, weekends, and beyond for the special man in your life!
Kids: Stitch Fix offers styles for kids, too. Wouldn’t this make school mornings a breeze?
KAILEIGH Holt Brushed Knit Dress
In a Nutshell
Stitch Fix is your personal stylist, delivering fashion directly to your doorstep. Whether you’re revamping your wardrobe or seeking that perfect outfit, they’ve got you covered. So, why not embrace a fresh start this season? Try something new, explore versatile pieces, and let Stitch Fix elevate your style game.
Ready to get started? Get 25% off your first Stitch Fix when you keep all 5 items! Visit Stitch Fix and find clothes you’ll love! 🛍️Let me know what you think in the comments! Have you used Stitch Fix?
As most of you know, March is Women’s History Month. I am blessed to share Life Clues by Author Angela Santomero, the genius behind children’s shows Blue’s Clues and Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. (If you have been following me for a while, you know that both of my kids love Daniel Tiger.) Angela’s latest book, Life Clues, offers insights that resonate with women of all ages. As a working mom of two little kids, I was able to read Life Clues twice, leaving the book with dog-eared pages and a journal filled with all of my thoughts.
The Child’s Mind
Angela Santomero draws inspiration from the innocent, yet intelligent minds of children. In Life Clues, she shares twenty clues that can transform our lives. These clues, often hidden in the chaos of daily life, hold the keys to an exceptional life. Some of my favorite clues are Don’t Say Fun, Be Fun, Create Your Own Neighborhood, and Always Say Goodbye. (I can relate to all of them, but felt myself relating to these three the most.)
Navigating Challenges
Are you up for the challenge? Women have always been adept at navigating challenges. As many of us juggle work, family, and household tasks, we have become multi-taskers and great leaders. Angela encourages us to embrace challenges intentionally. Each challenge carries a clue, which points us toward a greater purpose.
Mindfulness and Playfulness
Life Clues includes the important concepts of mindfulness and playfulness. As women, we often forget to play and find joy in the little things. A lot of us, including myself, forget about self-care. I admit, I don’t practice self-care as much as I should. It should be a priority, but, admittedly, it usually falls to the bottom of the list. Life Clues reminds readers to dance, laugh, and explore with childlike wonder. Stopping and being present, not only with ourselves but with our children, is so important. It is truly about presence; stopping and smelling the roses, sipping the coffee slowly, making time for a therapeutic massage, feeling your baby’s touch as you snuggle under a blanket, and hearing the belly laughs during playtime. Life Clues has reminded me to slow down and be more mindful and playful with my children.
Credit: 4U2B Books & Media
Create A Satisfying Life
Life Clues is an easy, quick read that shares bite-sized life lessons that are accessible even to the busiest readers. Trust me, if I could finish Life Clues two times, with a crazy schedule, so can you, friends. Life Clues has been a great reminder to discover my passions, journal what makes me truly happy, and think more positively. Everyone deserves a fulfilling, satisfying life.
Credit: 4U2B Books & Media and Jacqueline Patton Photography
Women’s History Month
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I want to recognize the impact of creators like Angela Santomero. Through her imaginative storytelling and dedication to children’s education, she has entertained and empowered people worldwide. Angela has pioneered her way into children’s television and is an honored published author. I look up to Angela. I see the years of hard work and dedication. I see the sleepless nights, hard days, glass ceilings, and grit that it took to get where she is today.
I also want to celebrate the countless women who continue to pave the way for future generations, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, empowerment, and inclusivity.
Realm of Vibes 