<![CDATA[Scary Mommy]]>https://www.scarymommy.comScary MommyMon, 13 Jul 2026 21:46:01 GMT<![CDATA[What Is Competence Fatigue? Therapists Explain Why Being "The Capable One" Is So Exhausting]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/what-is-competence-fatiguehttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/what-is-competence-fatigueMon, 13 Jul 2026 21:45:45 GMT
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There’s a particular kind of exhaustion that comes from being the one. You know, the one who is responsible, the one who gets sh*t done, the one who remembers dates and always shows up and seems to be the person everyone else leans on in a crisis. You didn't volunteer to be that person; it happened because, at some point, you proved you could handle whatever was thrown your way.

Now, everyone expects that of you. They just assume you’ll handle it, meaning a lot of stuff inevitably falls on your shoulders. Women online (especially moms in midlife) have started talking about this phenomenon and the accompanying exhaustion it brings, dubbing it “competence fatigue.”

And if that phrase alone feels like an ah-ha moment, congrats, you’re probably the reliable one, too.

But does that mean you’re doomed to this fate forever? How do you break out of that box and get some greatly needed support? We turned to psychologists and therapists for advice about this problematic paradigm and what you can do about it.

What is “competence fatigue”?

Well, it’s not a clinical diagnosis, so you won’t exactly find it in any reference book. However, experts say the underlying mechanism is something they often see in practice.

“When I hear the term ‘competence fatigue,’ I immediately think of a concept we frequently discuss in DBT (dialectical behavior therapy): apparent competence,” says Jeanette Lorandini, LCSW, founder and director of Suffolk DBT.

She explains that many of her clients grew up learning that they needed to be "the strong one" to receive support or acceptance. The easy, self-sufficient one. "While this strategy can be effective for a time, it often leads to a cycle where the more competent someone appears, the more responsibility is placed upon them," she adds.

It's a catch-22 because the performance works so well that it inadvertently masks your actual needs. "Apparent competence can unintentionally prevent others from seeing when they are struggling," Lorandini says.

Why does competence get "rewarded" with more work?

When you’re the reliable one for everyone else, it can feel as though you’re being punished for that reliability. The more capable you are, the more gets piled on. And that’s sort of the maddening math of it all: Struggle generates support, while reliability tends to generate reliance.

Estepha Francisque, LCSW, a licensed psychotherapist and co-founder of Forward Ethos, says it all boils down to the way people tend to seek the shortest path between a problem and a solution.

"This leads to managers, coworkers, parents, and partners taking the 'easy way out' by immediately turning to the reliable person in the system," he says. "They often think 'just this one time,' but after 100 times of making that decision, their neural pathways quickly go in that direction."

Hmm, that sounds familiar. Oh, yes, it’s because I’m an eldest daughter, and Francisque points out that this is precisely how the eldest-daughter paradigm is born. The whole dynamic lands disproportionately on women, particularly women of color. In fact, in his practice, Black women have sought out help for it most of all.

Of course, it doesn’t help that women are socialized to absorb the ask without friction, so the loop reinforces itself.

“Being helpful, low maintenance, and easy is how a lot of us learned to stay safe and stay loved," says Chloë Bean, LMFT, a somatic trauma therapist in Los Angeles. "So when the reward for finishing your work is just more work, you don't push back because pushing back threatens the identity that's been keeping you valued.”

Yet at what cost?

Anyone who fits the description here would likely tell you the actual workload isn't the hardest part; it's the seclusion hiding inside of competence fatigue that sucks the most.

“The toll is a specific kind of loneliness," says Dr. Annia Raja, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Helm Psychology Group. "Not being alone, exactly, but being surrounded by people who never think to ask if you're OK, because you've never given them a reason to wonder."

Over time, that isolation can start to curdle, becoming something corrosive: "You start to resent people you love for not noticing that you're struggling or exhausted, even though you may have inadvertently trained them not to check in."

Bean says that this resentment can surface in all kinds of ways, from physical to mental. It might look like crying in the car before you go inside, suffering from insomnia, constantly clenching your jaw, getting sick anytime you have downtime, or grief over “the sense that you could fall apart and no one would notice, because you’ve become a master at hiding your inner suffering.”

OK, how do you break the cycle?

Rest easy; no one here is going to pretend a bubble bath is the answer to all your problems. Rather, the experts were unanimous in insisting self-care isn’t necessarily the fix. Sure, it might help you along the way, but what’s really going to make a difference is redistribution. It’s time to get comfortable with delegation, boundaries, and just flat-out saying no.

Try a "handback." Rod Mitchell, a registered psychologist and founder of Emotions Therapy Calgary, recommends identifying one thing that typically defaults to you and handing it over with a prepared script: "I'm unable to handle this one item; do you want to take care of it, or shall we decide who will?"

Then comes the incredibly hard part. "Let someone else mess it up, or possibly not do it at all; don't step in to correct them," Mitchell says (gasp, I know). "Once another person realizes how large the load is, then the load begins to shift."

Be clear about your bandwidth. Francisque has a simple hack you can roll out whenever someone brings you a new task: Ask them if they'd prefer to prioritize it over an existing one. It's a way to gently remind people that, you know, you're a human being with finite bandwidth. You're not a fulfillment center. Francisque also strongly encourages taking sick days (at work and at home) so others feel the gap your competence usually fills.

Two words: baby steps. The thing is, if your nervous system equates being needed with being safe, it's not like you can unlearn that in a weekend. There's no such thing as snapping your fingers and boundary-ing your way out of this one! So, while it's going to feel unnatural, probably even uncomfortably so at first, Bean says you have to train yourself to pause before reflexively volunteering for or agreeing to things. Learn to let the silence sit for a bit ("someone else will fill it").

Then work your way up to letting one little thing be visibly imperfect. Maybe you don't reply to a text right away. Or maybe you bring a store-bought dish to the PTA meeting instead of making something from scratch. The whole gist is just to let something be imperfect and "notice how nothing collapses," says Bean. "That's evidence your system needs."

At the end of the day, Lorandini says it all adds up to "reliable" women remembering one core tenet: "You can be incredibly capable and still need support. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it's a sign of wisdom. Real resilience is not carrying everything alone, but knowing that you don’t have to.”

In other words, the most competent thing you can do this week might just be handing off some responsibility to someone else… and letting them figure it out for themselves.

]]><![CDATA[Will 'The Five-Star Weekend' Get A Season 2 On Peacock? What We Actually Know]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/the-five-star-weekend-season-2-renewal-updateshttps://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/the-five-star-weekend-season-2-renewal-updatesMon, 13 Jul 2026 19:11:01 GMT
Seacia Pavao/Peacock

Raise your hand if you stayed up way too late revenge-sleep-procrastination-watching all eight episodes of The Five-Star Weekend as soon as it dropped on Peacock. Same, friend, and probably also just like you, I couldn’t wait to talk about it with my group chat. The Jennifer Garner-led adaptation of Elin Hilderbrand’s bestselling beach read gave us everything we could hope for: midlife messiness, house envy, food porn, a Catch and Release reunion, and a dreamy Nantucket setting to tie it all in a big bow. Now we just have to know: Are we getting more?

Here are all the potential details (so far) about a second season.

Has The Five-Star Weekend been renewed?

Peacock hasn’t officially renewed the show yet, and considering it has only just been released, it’s reasonable to gently pump the brakes on our expectations. But let’s talk about what we have in our favor… and what’s working against us.

The biggest reason the odds are a bit murkier than we’d like is that it was, in fact, built as a limited series. The eight episodes adapt the entirety of Hilderbrand’s 2023 standalone novel, meaning there’s no sequel source material just sitting on a shelf waiting to become Season 2. And one could argue that the finale pretty neatly ties up Hollis’ story, since she now knows the truth about Matthew, mostly makes peace with it, and cautiously starts moving toward the possibility of something new.

BUT (and I say this as someone who would gladly watch the women in this cast read a phone book), “limited series” doesn’t always mean “one and done.” Might I direct your attention to Exhibits A, B, and C? The Four Seasons, Big Little Lies, and Nine Perfect Strangers all started as single-and-done seasons before public outcry inspired more.

Arguably, the most compelling thing in our favor is that Hilderbrand herself seems to be actively campaigning to carry on the story. She’s been all over Threads, hyping fans up in the comments, even teasing, “If everyone keeps loving on it, we might get a season two!”

So, if enough of us keep watching, rewatching, and talking about The Five-Star Weekend, Peacock is likely to pay attention.

What would The Five-Star Weekend Season 2 even be about?

No official logline exists, but I feel like they absolutely left plenty of storylines open for continuation. In an interview with TV Insider, showrunner Bekah Brunstetter nodded to this, telling the outlet she’s got plenty of ideas “locked in” a Season 2 vault. She did offer a tiny hint, though, implying the women would stay friends going forward and start building new friendships within the group.

The cast has floated some delicious plot twists, too, namely a getaway to Greece that involves Gigi (Gemma Chan) piloting the getaway flight. Readers of the book will recognize the second half of that scenario; Hilderbrand’s novel actually ends with the women jetting off on an Italian vacation, only to realize on the flight home that it’s Gigi’s voice on the flight intercom. I’d say that’s a rather promising unraveled thread!

Personally, I need us to check back in with Tatum (Chloë Sevigny) to see what’s going on with her health. I wouldn’t be upset if we got to see more of her relationship with her husband, Kyle (David Denman), either!

Who would come back?

Assuming the gang's all in, you'd expect the core ensemble to return: Jennifer Garner as Hollis, Regina Hall as Dru-Ann, Sevigny as Tatum, D'Arcy Carden as Brooke, Chan as Gigi, Timothy Olyphant as Jack, and Denman as Kyle, along with Harlow Jane as Hollis’ daughter Caroline and West Duchovny as Tatum’s daughter Aubrey. (Fun fact: Jane is the daughter of actors Patricia Arquette and Thomas Jane, and Duchovny's parents are actors David Duchovny and Téa Leoni.)

Greg Gayne/Peacock

Wild card returns would be Judy Greer as frenemy Electra, Josh Hamilton as Hollis’ late husband Matthew, Roberta Colindrez as Brooke’s new girlfriend, Vella Lovell as Hollis’ agent, and Henry Eikenberry as Aubrey’s dim-witted but handsome “baby daddy” Dylan.

Although, honestly, it's hard to visualize the show without every last one of them.

The Bottom Line

At this point, a second season is far from guaranteed… but it feels hopeful. The show is garnering solid reviews so far (88% on Rotten Tomatoes), the cast sounds down for more, and the creative team already has concepts brewing.

We just need all the self-professed honorary Hollibabes to keep showing up and loving The Five-Star Weekend loudly enough for the network to take notice.

]]><![CDATA[I Couldn't Orgasm Until After I Gave Birth]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/i-couldnt-orgasm-until-after-i-gave-birthhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/i-couldnt-orgasm-until-after-i-gave-birthMon, 13 Jul 2026 16:35:52 GMT
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The first time I had sex I was 20 years old, which was old enough to know first times usually don’t feel that great, so I didn’t get my hopes up. It wasn’t a shock when I didn’t orgasm; it’ll probably take some time to figure out what works for me, I reasoned, and I tried to focus on learning what those things were. Besides, I had waited until I was in a relationship with someone I really liked — I decided to bask in how good that felt, how not-nervous I’d been. Surely it would all come together with time.

Months spilled into years and that boyfriend moved away, but sex always went the same no matter who it was with: The pleasure would build and build, but I could never seem to reach the storied O. If I had balls, they would’ve been indigo blue. Intimacy was like an EDM song that crescendos endlessly, overwhelming the senses, and then, in the most unsatisfying way, the noise just cuts out.

For a while I wondered if maybe I was really orgasming, but when compared to the wild moaning and showiness of movie scenes, it just seemed like I wasn’t. Sometimes it felt like maybe there was a little bit of release, and wasn’t it possible that my orgasms were just different from other people’s? We tend to think the people around us are having more sex and better sex than we are; why would the orgasm part be any different?

Still, I sought out my missing orgasm. I talked to my husband and we tried everything we could think of, from indulging in fantasies to lengthening foreplay. In Type A fashion, I read Come As You Are and Becoming Orgasmic. I signed up for the viral OMGYES women’s pleasure program at the recommendation of Emma Watson (a hysterical sentence now that the cultural moment has passed) and dutifully completed every lesson. It definitely taught me a thing or two, but still, the big release of an orgasm eluded me.

So off to sex therapy I went. I talked to the therapist and did her worksheets and ultimately got absolutely nowhere, other than feeling like it was my lot in life to never cum at all. I dedicated myself to enjoying sex for what it was for me — a lot of stuff that felt really good, all of which deepened my connection to my partner — and put orgasms out of my mind.

A few years later, I became a mom. I had a vaginal birth that went incredibly smoothly, for which I counted my lucky stars. I needed a stitch or two for a first-degree tear, and yes, things looked visually a little different down there, but at my six-week checkup I got the all clear to resume normal life (meaning intimacy).

That night, I was back in my 20-year-old mindset again, feeling the tiniest bit nervous for my first time post-birth, but also completely comfortable in trying it with my husband. I had no expectations and knew it maybe wouldn’t feel the best, but I wanted to see what it would feel like.

And I… well, I orgasmed.

There was no mistaking the warm and weighty buildup of pleasure, but for the first time, it crested over into actual release. It felt amazing and overwhelming and maybe not as dramatic as the movies, but let’s just say I finally understood the hype. My husband and I were both shocked but elated.

Immediately I took to Google to see if this was something other women had experienced, but everything I read pointed me to articles about women “losing” their orgasms after delivery, not finding them. Even researching my experience now, years later, I can’t find anyone online talking about this happening to them. Painful sex, dulled pleasure, complete loss of libido — these were what the majority of people experienced.

All I can do is theorize. Maybe birth finally connected my brain to my pelvic floor in a way it wasn’t before. Maybe pushing out a nearly 8-pound baby helped those muscles tense or relax in just the right way. Maybe there were enough small structural changes deep within my inner workings that finally helped me unclench enough to have the big O — I really don’t know. When I brought it up with my OB-GYN, she didn’t have much insight either.

Obviously I can’t recommend giving birth as a treatment for anorgasmia (the medical term for the inability to orgasm despite sufficient stimulation); children are notoriously bad for their parents’ sex lives. But for me, giving birth finally unlocked my ability to orgasm. Now I’m good for one about nine times out of 10, probably because my husband and I practiced what feels good for me for so many years. I may never know what changed or why; I’m just glad to be in the big O club now.

]]><![CDATA[I Checked Out Of My Marriage 6 Years Before It Was Over]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/i-checked-out-of-my-marriage-6-years-before-it-was-overhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/i-checked-out-of-my-marriage-6-years-before-it-was-overMon, 13 Jul 2026 15:00:24 GMT
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I had been married for 11 years when I realized I didn’t know what was happening within it. I knew I didn’t want to have sex with my then- husband, and I told myself I had a low libido from having so many kids so close together. I knew it was more though. A lot more.

My ex and I fell into our routine and stopped seeing each other. I think we both thought it was a phase — something that we could get back when things settled down. The thing is, when you have a family and a home and bills and careers, things don’t slow down. So we kept letting it slip.

I “nagged” him and he tried a little, but I didn't think it was hard enough. He resented me because I didn’t want to have sex with him and I resented him because he didn’t help around the house or care to make things like my birthday special.

I started to get so angry and annoyed with him I began to imagine a life without him in it. I felt like it would be easier to run the household on my own instead of constantly asking him to help. I felt touched out and had no desire to be intimate. We were co-existing, and I had completely checked out on all levels. And once I did that I couldn’t get it back.

I tried. I did. But mentally I wasn’t married any longer.

I kept hoping and wishing that life would get back to the way it was before. Before things got so hard. It wasn’t just his fault and it wasn’t just my fault, but looking back I do own something: my ex was more willing to work through things than I was. He was more flexible and I truly believe he wanted us more than I did. It had been years since I felt like I wanted to be his partner and once I was done, that was it.

That was no way to live. He deserved to have someone who wanted to be with him. So we parted ways and when we announced six years later that we were separating, our friends and family were shocked. They wanted to know why we weren’t trying harder. They told us they thought everything seemed fine.

But the truth was it hadn’t been fine for so long; I was almost used to it. So when things became final, I didn’t fall apart because I had already processed everything and imagined a life without him.

I’ve talked to so many women since then who have said that they checked out of their marriage long before it was over. They had thoughts and daydreams of moving on without their husband and starting over long before they signed divorce papers. Some even said that their husbands were blindsided even though they had told them over and over what they needed.

Divorce isn’t black and white, and I’ve never talked to anyone who said one day they wanted to be married, then the next day they didn’t.

It can be a long, painful process and more often than not, couples will stay together for a long time before they decide to divorce. It happens in the small, quiet moments that you don’t know how to fix. Signing the divorce papers is just the official acknowledgement of something you’ve been grieving for a long time.

And for many of us, we are finally catching up to a decision our heart made years before.

Diana Park is a writer who finds solitude in a good book, the ocean, and eating fast food with her kids.

]]><![CDATA[37 Baby Names That Mean “Miracle” For Your New Little Blessing]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/pregnancy/baby-names-that-mean-miraclehttps://www.scarymommy.com/pregnancy/baby-names-that-mean-miracleMon, 13 Jul 2026 14:33:52 GMT
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Every baby is a miracle, honestly — the fact that our bodies can create an entire person from a cluster of cells, down to every last perfect eyelash, is truly magical. For some parents, their babies may feel extra miraculous, whether they’re welcoming a rainbow baby after great loss or finally, finally pregnant after a long journey through infertility. So if you’re looking for baby names that mean miracle to bestow on your little blessing, well, you’re right to do so. Each and every new baby is a miracle in their own right. These names nod to the wonder and blessings they’ll bring into your life

Here are some of our favorite baby names that mean miracle for boys and girls alike.

Bennett

Bennett is somehow both classic and cool, recognizable but rare. It means “blessed” or “little blessed one,” so while it doesn’t translate directly to “miracle,” let’s call it miracle-adjacent.

Guinevere

This name can mean “fair and soft,” or more fittingly here, “blessed.” It also has a literary appeal thanks to the famous Lady Guinevere, queen of Camelot, from the legend of King Arthur.

Matteo

This Italian name derived from the same origins as Matthew means “gift of god.” If you’re having a little girl, the feminine version is the beautiful and unique Mattea.

Moses

Moses is obviously a name of Biblical significance and means “drawn out of the water.” It feels like a nod to how miraculous it is that in the so-called waters of the womb, an entire person takes shape.

Nessa

This name can be tied back to many different origins, but the Hebrew interpretation means “wondrous” or “miracle.” While it’s typically more of a nickname for Agnes or Vanessa, it feels strong enough to stand on its own.

More Baby Names That Mean “Miracle”

  • Amari: “promised by God”
  • Amaris: “promised by God”
  • Arabella: “answered prayer”
  • Ayah: “sign of God’s existence”
  • Barack: “blessing”
  • Benedict: “the blessed one”
  • Celeste: “heavenly”
  • Celia: “heavenly” or “of the heavens”
  • Desiree: “desired” or “much longed for”
  • Dorothea: “gift of God”
  • Eliana: “my God has answered”
  • Ender: “extremely rare”
  • Eudora: “good gift”
  • Gia: “God is gracious”
  • Jesse: “gift”
  • Joanna: “God is gracious”
  • Johnathan: “gift from God”
  • Kimaya: “divine miracle”
  • Marvel: someone or something that causes wonder or astonishment
  • Matthew: “gift of God”
  • Mila: “miracle”
  • Milagro: “miracle”
  • Mireya: “miracle”
  • Nathaniel: “gift of God”
  • Samuel: “God has heard”
  • Saul: “prayed for,” “asked for”
  • Shani: “marvelous”
  • Shiloh: “his gift”
  • Thaddeus: “blessing from God”
  • Theodore/Theodora: “divine gift”
  • Zahari: “God has remembered”

Does one of these names feel right for your new little miracle?

]]><![CDATA[65 Cheap, Highly Rated Things On Amazon That Look Expensive As Hell]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/cheap-highly-rated-things-on-amazon-that-look-expensive-as-hellhttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/cheap-highly-rated-things-on-amazon-that-look-expensive-as-hellSat, 11 Jul 2026 16:00:24 GMT
Amazon

Wish there was a way to make your Pinterest boards a reality, just without dipping into your rainy day funds? This list of shopper favorites delivers the goods. Brimming with the absolute best budget gems — from home and garden finds to must-have travel and style accessories — you’ll see why so many Amazon reviewers are raving about these luxe little things. Each and every product looks incredibly high-end but costs next to nothing, so you can upgrade your everyday life without waking up with a financial hangover.

Wireless Spotlights For A Custom Lighting Look

Create a custom lighting look with these shockingly inexpensive spotlights that shoppers love. They’re ideal for highlighting artwork, plants, and more. And since they’re wireless, you don’t even have to call out an electrician to set them up. Simply charge and tap to choose from a variety of lighting brightness and temperature modes. Installation is as easy as using the included adhesive pads or magnetic mount — and screws are also provided for a more permanent option.

A Privacy Window Film In Stunning Floral Designs

Layer on the privacy and style when you install this upscale window film that also protects against UV rays. It features a beautiful botanical pattern against an iridescent mosaic background, and it goes on using just water (it comes off just as easily, too). Choose from a curated selection of pretty floral patterns.

Absorbent Hand Towels For A Pop Of Botanical Color

These plush hand towels are a shopper fave that you won’t want to pass up. They feature tropical leaf designs and are made from super-absorbent and quick-drying fleece. And the loops are pure genius, allowing you to hang them for easy reach on the included hooks and to help prevent musty odors. The set of three is surprisingly affordable, too.

A Classic Tote You Can Personalize

With a 4.8-star rating after nearly 25,000 reviews, it’s safe to say this monogrammed tote bag is going to become your new go-to for beach days and beyond. Shoppers love the classic black-on-white design and the fancy embroidered lettering. Constructed from canvas and featuring a reinforced bottom, you can count on it being a durable choice.

A Decorative Lamp With Convenient Touch Operation

With a luxe look and a low price, this decorative lamp might be your next fave Amazon find. It has a stunning crystal body that doubles as a vase for displaying the included faux sunflowers. One shopper who added it to their sunflower-themed bathroom shared, “This light is so cute and having adjustable brightness is a plus.”

A Sturdy Curtain Rod With Decorative Finials For Instant Elegance

Creating an elegant atmosphere doesn’t have to mean adding big-ticket items to your space. In fact, this adjustable curtain rod with decorataive finials adds a major impact in bedrooms, living rooms, and beyond. Made from sturdy metal, the ends feature a classic bird design in an oil-rubbed bronze finish that gives them a surprisingly luxurious appearance without the high price tag.

Under-Sink Organizers With Drawers For Easy Access

There are tons of storage finds on Amazon, but with rave reviews and a budget-friendly price, you can bet this is the set to grab. It includes a pair of tiered under-sink organizers perfect for storing everything from toiletries to cleaning supplies. Plus, the pull-out tiers make it easy to access your items.

A Fan-Fave Makeup Bag That Looks Expensive

This best-selling makeup bag has a near-perfect rating after over 12,000 reviews — and it’s easy to see why. Not only does it have a luxe faux leather exterior, but it folds open flat, making it super easy to access its many compartments and pockets that are perfect for storing everything from lip balms to full-size makeup brushes.

A Whimsical Tablecloth With Embroidered Flowers

This table runner is so stunning that it’s no surprise it’s selling lightning quick. It’s made from a lightweight sheer fabric and embroidered with colorful flowers. Layer it over existing tablecloths to create a whimsical look, or use it as a standalone accent. One shopper raved, “The design is even prettier in person and added the perfect touch for my décor. It worked great for everyday use but also looked amazing for when I had guests over.”

Quick-Drying Kitchen Towels In Pretty Patterns

If it’s time for a new set of kitchen towels, you might want to check out this pretty pair that boast an impressive 4.7-star rating. They feature floral patterns in upscale colors and are made from ultra-absorbent, quick-drying microfiber. They’re machine washable and have side loops, making them easy to clean and store. Grab a highly rated, durable set of two for a shockingly great price.

A Spa-Like Incense Holder That Catches Ash Perfectly

Shoppers are obsessed with this elegant incense holder, and you will be too. The minimalist leaf design gives it a spa-like vibe, and the ceramic is finished in a calming green hue and a heat-resistant glaze. Three holes along the side allow you to prop sticks at the perfect angle for a steady burn. One shopper noted, “Hold the incense sticks perfectly and collects ash just right.”

A Posh Jewelry Case That’s Perfect For Travel

Hundreds of shoppers have given this jewelry case a five-star review. And, like them, you’ll fall for this little travel essential that boasts a surprising amount of storage space — think compartments for dozens of earrings, necklaces, and more. The faux leather exterior adds to the expensive look and is available in a range of neutral colorways.

Vintage-Inspired Mugs That Come With Gorgeous Accessories

Elevate your daily sips with these stunning, vintage-inspired mugs that come with golden stir spoons and convenient bamboo lids for taking on the go. “These are stylish and absolutely beautiful. I use mine for coffee or tea and I think they are a great value for the money,” gushed one shopper. They’re made from thick glass and feature stunning embossed patterns. You get two mugs in the highly rated set.

A Discreet TP Basket With A Bamboo Lid

Shoppers are snapping up this toilet paper storage basket, and you’ll want to grab one as well. Not only is it a low-cost option, but it looks so good that you won’t try to tuck it out of sight. It’s constructed from a sturdy, linen-like material and features a bamboo lid and frame. It can hold up to 12 standard size rolls and folds flat when not in use.

Elegant Pillar Candles With Faux Flickering Flames

These popular pillar candles are true statement pieces. They feature gold glass holders with an iridescent finish, real hand-poured wax, and faux flames that flicker just like the real thing. The affordable set includes three candles in varying heights and a remote for effortless operation. Use them to elevate coffee tables, mantles, and more.

Upscale Cabinet Pulls That Look Like Emeralds

These stunning knobs are made from real glass in an eye-catching emerald color wrapped in brushed brass wire. They’re perfect for upgrading cabinets and furniture on a budget since they come in inexpensive sets of four. And, shoppers note that they’re incredibly easy to install (they even come with screws).

A Best-Selling Set Of 14-Karat Bracelets To Wear Solo Or Stacked

This luxe bracelet set didn’t earn best-seller status for nothing — shoppers are truly impressed with the quality for the price. The incredibly affordable set includes five 14-karat gold-plated bracelets, featuring a variety of chain styles that range from classic to modern. Stack them together or wear them solo to make a bold statement.

A Sweet & Cozy Lamp With Dual Functions

This pretty lamp has so many features to love, including a dimmable halogen bulb (it even comes with a backup) that doubles as a candle warmer. And the glass shade looks just like a blossoming flower. One shopper noted, “Normally don’t take time to write reviews but I’m so pleased with this lamp that I had to. It’s absolutely beautiful and has a soft warm glow that makes any space feel cozy.”

Peel-&-Stick Wall Decals For An Inviting Pop Of Color

Between the beautiful botanical prints and rave reviews, you can confidently add these wall decals to your cart. And since they feature peel-and-stick installation and leave no residue when removed, they’re a low-lift, low-commitment option that instantly elevates a space with a pop of color. One shopper reported, “Love this design-easy to cut into smaller pieces for placement.”

Wildly Popular Satin Pillowcases That Look & Feel So Good

These wildly popular pillowcases have earned cult status. Thousands of shoppers rave over how good they both look and feel. Made from ultra-smooth satin, they help keep hair and skin looking its best by preventing friction that causes creases and frizz. Budget-friendly pairs are available in a wide range of colors and sizes.

Fancy Cat Toilet Bolt Covers

Before you reach for plastic replacements, you might want to take a look at these equally inexpensive yet infinitely more attractive toilet bolt covers. These fancy cat-themed covers are made from durable ceramic and feature a shiny glaze with gold-tone details. Simply pop them over existing bolts — no tools needed

Vintage-Inspired Glass Bud Vases That Are Practically Indestructible

These bud vases look like an expensive vintage set, but they’re actually super affordable and crafted to last. Made from thick glass and featuring stunning designs, they’re a must for any home — even those with kids. One thrilled shopper explained, “The glass is thick and great quality. My children have banged them on the floor and glass tables and they haven’t cracked.”

An Amber Glass Tumbler For Sipping On The Go

The fact that this tumbler is selling so quickly speaks volumes about how incredible it is. Made from amber-hued glass, it can be used for both hot and cold drinks. And the leakproof lid and straw make it perfect for sipping on the go. It’s also available in clear for an equally budget-friendly price.

A Diamond Projector Night-Light That Makes Any Room Look Luxe

You don't need a massive budget to completely change a room's vibe, and this affordable projection night-light is proof. It features dual-direction lights with diamond-like covers for a magical glow, plus multiple color options and three dimming levels. Just plug it in to start enjoying this bougie lighting find.

An Energy-Saving Window Film With A Classic Design

Hundreds of shoppers have dropped a five-star review for this posh window film. Features to love include the light filtering reed background and the classic diamond pattern. As if you needed more reasons to grab a roll, there’s also the fact that it helps reduce energy bills by blocking out heat.

A Himalayan Salt Diffuser For Spa Vibes

This Himalayan salt stone diffuser is a must-have accent piece that’s actually so practical. It features natural crystal salts, a warm amber glow, and an earthy wood-and-glass construction. It’s ideal for making any space in your home instantly feel like a spa escape — just add drops of your favorite essential oil.

A Rustic Serving Tray For Wine Lovers

This stylish yet budget-friendly serving tray is made from real wine bottles, which means no two are alike. It’s perfect for charcuterie presentations for two and, while easy to wipe clean, it’s also dishwasher safe. A real cork and twine wrapping gives it a rustic touch.

Sturdy Metal Hair Clips With Stunning Nature Designs

These gorgeous hair clips are literally being snapped up by shoppers who love their whimsical look. Each clip in the affordable set of six features a unique design, including butterflies and flowers. Crafted from metal, they’re durable yet customers note that they’re comfortable enough for all-day wear.

A Waterproof Lamp For A Soothing Self-Care Routine

This quick-selling shower lamp will transform your everyday routine into a luxe self-care moments. Just tap to enjoy stepless dimming and to choose between 15 colorful hues, plus warm-to-cool white tones. And since it’s both waterproof and wireless, you can bring it right into the shower.

A Stylish Wallet With Tons Of Storage

“I love this wallet. It's beautiful and has lots of space for cards,” raved one reviewer about this custom-look accessory. It’s made from durable faux leather that looks and feels like the real thing, and is available in a variety of stylish colorways, including eye-catching patterns and neutral solids.

An Ice Mold Set For A Better Tablescape

Up your entertaining game with this popular ice mold and bucket set. Simply pour water into the sturdy plastic mold and add flowers or fruit before, then freeze to be wowed by the pretty results. The affordable find also includes a durable stainless steel bucket that helps keep surfaces dry.

Contact Paper That Looks Like Real Wood

Shoppers swear by this upscale contact paper for transforming spaces on a budget. It’s made from thick vinyl and has a real wood-look. Just trim to size, then peel and stick to cabinets, countertops, walls, furniture, and beyond. And with a variety of natural wood tones to choose from, you’re sure to find a match for your space.

Stylish Plant Pots With A Genius Self-Watering System

There’s so much to love about this two-pack of hanging plant pots, and shoppers feel the same way, like this one reviewer who gushed, “This is the best and most favorite pot I have ever purchased for my plants!” Features to appreciate include the self-watering design that takes the guesswork out of plant care, plus the lightweight, fluted pots that look like real glass.

Artisanal Espresso Mugs With Hand-Painted Details

Offered as a set of four, these stunning espresso mugs look like something you’d find in a pricey artisanal boutique. While they’re surprisingly affordable, they’re actually handcrafted from durable ceramic that can withstand the dishwasher. You’ll love the colorful, hand-painted details as much as shoppers do. Choose from a selection of eye-catching patterns.

A Real Gold & Mother-Of-Pearl Necklace

Shoppers adore this beautiful necklace that resembles an expensive antique. It features a clover pendant with a mother-of-pearl inlay and a classic cable chain, all plated in polished 14-karat gold. The delicate design is sure to elevate any outfit, from casual to dressy. Choose from a range of colorful pendants.

A Sleek Wood Docking Station With Tons Of Storage Space

Thousands of shoppers have snapped up this phone docking station, naming it a high-quality find. It’s crafted from solid wood and offers various compartments for storing phones, keys, watches, and other accessories. Choose from three finishes, including neutral browns and a dramatic black that looks super sleek.

An Armrest Tray For Better Movie Nights

This popular armrest tray will take movie night to a whole new level. It’s crafted from solid bamboo and features a 360-degree rotating cup holder, plus plenty of space for your phone, tablet, and snacks. And the nonslip lining along the base helps keep it secured. One shopper noted, “I am impressed by the quality, and the backing that makes it sit safely on the arm rest.”

A Wax Warmer That Looks Like A Cozy Fireplace

The highly rated wax warmer is a stylish two-in-one find that melts wax while providing a cozy flickering flame effect. Shoppers appreciate its realistic fireplace appearance, quick wax melting capability, and the way it effortlessly spreads fragrance throughout their homes. It looks super expensive, but the actual price will pleasantly surprise you.

Faux Hanging Plants That Look So Realistic

This set of two faux pothos plants are flying off Amazon shelves, and it’s easy to see why. Not only are they designed to look like real plants, but they’re perfect for adding lush greenery to spaces that don’t get a lot of sunlight. One shopper raved, “The leaves have great color variation and the vines drape really naturally, so it doesn’t have that stiff “fake plant” look.”

A Versatile Scarf Available In Bougie Prints

This sophisticated scarf is ultra-versatile. Use it to elevate your outfits and as a hair or handbag accessory. It’s made from a soft, smooth material that feels like expensive silk, but it’s surprisingly affordable. The color selection is equally impressive and features classic prints as well as abstract designs.

A Chic Vase That Looks Elegant On Your Bookshelf

If books and blooms are your vibe, this chic vase is going to stop you in your tracks. It’s designed to look like a book (complete with a cover and spine) but is made from clear acrylic, allowing you to see your bouquets right through it. One thrilled shopper shared, “Everyone compliments and comments on it when they see it! I love it!”

A Modern Ceiling Light With So Many Modes

This modern ceiling light delivers a sleek, low-profile look that hundreds of reviewers are already raving about — and it’s surprisingly inexpensive. Plus, it features versatile lighting modes that let you easily transition from crisp, bright white during the day to a warm, soft glow in the evening.

Elegant Candle Holders That Are So Versatile

If candles are kinda your thing, these holders are a must for completing your collection. The ribbed glass and rose gold hue give them a vintage appearance, plus they’re reversible, giving you more than one way to show them off. One happy shopper gushed, “These candle holders are so elegant looking and I love how functional they are! You can fit either candlesticks or [votive] candles in them. Genius!”

A Crystal Jewelry Box With Old-World Charm

This stunning jewelry box offers old-world charm, just without the high price tag of antique shops. It’s studded with glimmering crystals and has a decorative metal frame that’s available in both gold and silver. And you'll be pleasantly surprised to find a mirrored surface when you lift the lid.

Pretty Magnetic Clasps That Make Putting On Jewelry Way Easier

Fastening your own bracelets and necklaces can be tricky, but these magnetic jewelry clasps make it easy, and thousands of shoppers agree, like this reviewer who explained, “These magnetic fasteners for my necklaces are a game changer. [...] This set is particularly useful because the magnets are different weights. A delicate necklace gets a lightweighted magnet and the heavier necklaces get the heavier magnet.”

Hummingbird Suncatchers Made From Real Stained Glass

At such a budget-friendly price, you’ll be shocked to find out that this set of two suncatchers feature genuine stained glass and copper foil frames. They’re designed to look like colorful hummingbirds and come with preinstalled chains so you can hang them in your garden, windows, and beyond as soon as they arrive.

A Hanging Lantern That Creates A Stunning Pattern

Add instant whimsy to your outdoor space with this highly rated hanging lantern. It features a solar-powered LED light and cutouts that create a stunning pattern come night. Plus, it’s crafted from bronze-tone metal and completely waterproof, making it the perfect outdoor decor for enjoying all year round.

A Plant Propagation Station With Heart-Shaped Vases

This budget-friendly plant propagation station features three heart-shaped borosilicate glass vases nestled in a solid wood stand. Plant-loving shoppers appreciate the rooting functionality and space-saving design, making it perfect for hanging or displaying on a sunny shelf or ledge. Choose from a range of colored glass options.

Posh PJ’s That Feel Incredibly Soft

You’ll feel like royalty every time you slip into these satin pajamas that reviewers can’t stop raving about. They’re crafted from a soft satin material and feature contrasting piping that adds another layer of luxury, just without the high price tag. Choose from a posh selection of colors to match your style.

A Timeless Iron Candle Holder For Indoor & Outdoor Use

This candle holder is both durable and timeless, which means you can enjoy it for years to come. It features a beautiful bird-on-a-branch design and is crafted from durable iron and resin that several shoppers note feels substantial. It holds standard tea lights or small votive candles and is perfect for displaying indoors or outdoors.

A Classic Head Vase That Makes Any Room Look Pricey

Show off your elegant design style with this classic head vase that’s shockingly inexpensive. It has an ancient Roman vibe and is made from resin that looks like real stone but is actually lightweight and practically unbreakable. Use it to display dry or fresh flower bouquets or as a holder for your beauty and craft supplies.

An Insulated Tumbler With A Saltable Rim

Sipping cocktails alfresco is about to get so much better when you use this margarita tumbler. Double-wall insulation helps keep drinks chilled for up to 10 hours, and the rim is the perfect place for adding a salty finish. One shopper noted, “One of my favorite summer purchases. Love that the bottom is grippy so it is nice when on a boat or dock.”

A Designer Look-Alike Handbag With Triple Compartments

Got a designer handbag on your wishlist but don’t want to wait to save up? This shopper-favorite purse is the next best thing. The classic shape and pebbled faux leather make it look so much more expensive than it really is, and you’ll appreciate that it offers three zippered compartments to help you stay organized.

An Elegant Journal That Looks Like A Work Of Art

Upgrade your daily writing routine with this popular journal that doubles as a work of art. Inspired by 16th-century Persian poetry, the cover features gold foil embossing against a matte black backdrop. Inside, find 160 acid-free lined pages with gold-gilded edges and a ribbon bookmark.

Unique Cocktail Glasses That Double As Decor

Surprise your guests with these pretty cocktail glasses that come as a set of four. They feature a charming bird design and are handblown from crystal glass. Use them to serve cocktails, apertifs, and flavored water. And you can even display them on shelves when not in use, where they’ll double as decor.

A Handcrafted Wooden Pen & Case Set That Looks Vintage

You’ll feel all kinds of posh every time you reach for this classic ballpoint pen and case set. It features handcrafted rosewood and maple wood construction, plus Japanese refills and German iridium nibs. Customers note that it writes as sleekly as it looks. It’s also available in a gel pen option.

A Sunflower-Themed Candle That’s So Calming

This popular candle does more than just offer a calming aroma and warm glow; it also features sunflower blades that spin, aided by the heat of the flame, making it an elevated piece of decor. Plus, with a 25-hour burn time, you’ll get plenty of cozy evenings out of this budget-friendly find.

A 6-Pair Set Of Faux Diamond Earrings For Dressing Up Or Down

This luxe earring set has a sky-high number of glowing reviews, which means you can grab a set for yourself without worrying about being disappointed. It includes six different stud sizes, all featuring shimmering zirconias and plated in 14-karat white gold — aka they’re perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.

A Bookmark Set That’s Inspired By Classic Paintings

Inspired by classic oil paintings, the stunning set includes a dangling pendant metal bookmark and a matching clip, both featuring elegant gold foil roses. Buyers love its sturdy yet lightweight feel, plus the low price and matching packaging that make it a great option for gifting.

A Reusable Wine Tote For Thoughtful Gifting

“This is a great presentation when giving wine as a gift. The bag is well made [and] the bottle is well protected. I will absolutely be purchasing again,” raved one reviewer about this reusable wine carrier. It features leather-like craftsmanship and is also ideal for use as a carrier when headed to picnics. It’s available in a range of sophisticated colorways, and you’ll be shocked at the low price.

A Shockingly Inexpensive Floating Shelves Set Made From Real Wood

These floating shelves are one of the most popular sets on Amazon, and they have a high rating for a reason. They’re crafted from real wood and have a natural brown finish that blends in with most interior designs. And you’ll appreciate how the lipped edges help prevent items from falling.

A Bird Trinket Box Shoppers Are Obsessed With

It’s easy to see how this gorgeous trinket box has a solid 4.8 rating. One shopper explained, “This elegant blue bird figurine is beautifully detailed, with sparkling accents and vibrant colors that make it a perfect decorative piece.” And you’ll love that it opens up to reveal a small compartment for stashing jewelry and small mementos.

A Diffuser Bracelet For Calm On The Go

Thousands of reviewers rave over this bracelet that doubles as a self-care accessory. The leather-like strap and intricate, watch-like design give it an expensive look. Plus, it opens up to reveal a diffuser compartment for dropping in the included essential oils, allowing you to take a sense of calm with you wherever you go.

A Handcrafted Tree of Life Made With Real Crystals

Wheter you decide to gift this stunning Tree of Life to a friend or keep it for yourself, you’re sure to be wowed by its appearance. It’s handcrafted and features a raw crystal base and rose quartz ‘leaves’ beautifully wired together into a tree shape.

A Luxe Throw Blanket That’s Incredibly Soft

You’ll be cozying up with this luxe throw blanket every chance you get. As one thrilled shopper shared, “Okay honestly though this has become my new favorite blanket. I drag it around with me like a toddler with a snuggly blanket. It's incredibly soft and I have washed it a couple times already with no issues.” Choose from a curated selection of elegant colors — all crafted from a plush faux fur material.

]]><![CDATA[85 Clever New Things On Amazon That Are Legitimately Amazing]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/clever-new-things-on-amazon-that-are-legitimately-amazinghttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/clever-new-things-on-amazon-that-are-legitimately-amazingFri, 10 Jul 2026 22:28:56 GMT

You already know that Amazon is a treasure trove of goods that can probably satisfy every one of your possible needs and desires. But because new finds are constantly dropping on the app, the treasures just keep on coming. You could spend hours of your life trying to keep up, or you could skip the endless scrolling and check out my latest list. It’s full of clever, new stuff that’s so amazing you won’t be able to resist hitting Add to Cart on repeat.

Clear Cases That Keep Essentials Safe & Easy To Spot

This set of hard-shell cases is a budget-friendly way to protect everything from charging cords and makeup brushes to medications and craft tools. There are six pieces (four small and two medium), each made from rigid, crush-resistant PET plastic with smooth zip closures that hold up inside backpacks and suitcases. A fully transparent design lets you see contents instantly, saving time during packing, security checks, or daily use.

A Portable Crock-Pot For On-The-Go Meals

Whether at home, the office, or on-the-go, this portable, 20-ounce food warmer by trusted brand, Crock-Pot, is a must for making meal time easier. The warming base reheats and keeps foods warm for hours. Just plug it in and let it do the rest. And clean up is a breeze too since both the stainless steel pot and inner lid are dishwasher-safe.

Personal Ice Cream Maker Mugs

Whip up a single-size serving of your favorite ice cream with a personal ice cream maker. The set includes one powerful ice cream machine and two insulated half-pint mugs that you can pop right into the freezer. It’s fun for the whole family and so easy to use that even the kids can give it a go.

A Mini Cricut Iron That Helps You Transfer Designs To Clothes

If you’re a Cricut crafter, this mini iron is about to streamline your projects. You can use it in tandem with heat-transfer vinyl to create cool designs on your favorite wearable goods, like hats, T-shirts, and sweatpants. It has a simple, single-setting operation, and the tiny size and precision tip make it easy to handle tight corners. The results will stand up to wash after wash.

A Jewelry Cleaner For Pro Results In 3 Minutes

This amazing little jewelry cleaner will have your accessories looking like new in no time (3 minutes to be exact). Simply fill the reservoir with jewelry cleaning solution and press start to activate the high-frequency sound waves to dislodge debris from even the hardest-to-reach crevices. Use it on everything from jewelry and makeup brushes to eyeglasses and watch straps.

Scented Lava Gel Pens That Turn Writing Into A Sensory Ritual

Turn everyday note-taking into an experience with this set of scented lava gel pens. Each features a smooth 0.5-milimeter gel tip with a liquid-filled barrel. Watch lava bubbles slowly rise and fall as you write, and breathe in the essential-oil-scented inks, inspired by mint, lavender, pine, cinnamon, and grapefruit. There are five pens per pack in a variety of ink colors.

An Easy-To-Follow Cookbook With 100 Recipes That Require Almost No Effort

Listen, it always sounds great to want to cook more, but in reality, that’s easier said than done. But not with this cookbook. The “I Don’t Want to Cook” Book is perfect for those nights when you just want something delicious and nutritious on the table ASAP. It has 100 recipes for family-friendly dishes with little-to-no prep like lasagna soup and stuffed peppers.

A Reusable Notebook That Stores Handwritten Notes On The Cloud

If you like the feeling of taking handwritten notes but want the convenience of a tablet, this amazing reusable notebook is what you’re looking for. It’s the best of both worlds, offering a surface that you can write on and wipe clean — but not before uploading your notes to a cloud using the free app. Plus, the set includes a FriXion pen and a microfiber cloth.

An Adapter Cable Kit That Doubles As A Phone Holder

Never be without the right type of charger ever again when you get this awesome adapter cable kit. It converts almost any type of charger so you can avoid the frustration of looking through a tangled mess of cords searching for the right one. And it even comes with a convenient storage case that features a built-in phone holder.

A Can Opener That Pops The Whole Top

Transform your favorite canned beverages into a wide mouth with this popular topless can opener. The ergonomic handle offers a comfortable grip, while the advanced safety mechanism guarantees a clean and smooth edge. It’s the perfect tool for backyard get-togethers, tailgate parties, camping, and more.

A Tulip Lamp That Glows With Soft Ambient Light

This decorative LED lamp celebrates the beauty of tulips without the cost of fresh bouquets. By day, it looks like an elegant arrangement with natural charm. By night, it transforms into a cozy table lamp that casts soft light. A porcelain-style pot adds another dimension of realism to the design, and battery power makes it portable and easy to operate.

A Portable 3-In-1 USB-C Charger For Your Key Chain

Never fear a dead phone battery again, thanks to this USB-C charger that fits on your key ring. This versatile tech addition has a built-in USB-C cable for powering up newer model iPhones and Androids, as well as an additional port if you want to charge your AirPods at the same time. It even works as a magnetic charger for your smartwatch.

Clever Night-Lights That Stay Charged During Power Outages

These clever night-lights take convenience to the next level. Each one charges simply by being plugged into a standard outlet with its fold-out plug. It fully powers up in just six hours, and then in case of an outage, it will turn on and can be used as uplighting, a night-light, flashlight, or tabletop light. Each charge lasts for six hours, which is enough to get through a stormy night.

Adorable Duck Toilet Bolt Covers That Are So Easy To Install

These charming duck toilet bolt covers will bring a smile to your face every time you enter the bathroom —and just wait until your house guests spot them. Offered as a set of two, the sleek ceramic covers slide right on exposed screws. One shopper gushed, “They’re adorbs, actually ceramic, inexpensive, require zero installation skills, and spruce up the ol’ toidy perfectly. [...] My only regret is not having discovered them sooner.”

A 4-Pack Of Fidget Toys That Have The Most Satisfying Twist & Flip Motion

If you find it easier to focus while keeping your hands occupied, then these fidget toys are exactly what you need. Each of the included four sensory toys has a different color and soothing texture for stress relief and improved concentration. Simply twist and flip the sides for a satisfying sensory sensation that’s quiet and discreet.

A Sticker Printer That’s The Size Of Your Phone

Creating custom labels and stickers is fun and easy with this Bluetooth mini printer. It uses thermal printing technology to expertly print graphics, photos, and more — all effortlessly customizable in the free app. And since it’s not much larger than the average cell phone, you can take it along with you wherever you go.

An Aesthetic Stationary Set

This aesthetic stationery set has everything a kid or college college student could need or want for school. It comes with a colorful assortment of pastel ballpoint and gel pens, highlights, pencils, and even a carrying case for convenient storage and portability. No wonder so many shoppers are gushing over this essential find.

A 3-In-1 Grill Pan For Less Cleanup

Why dirty more dishes than necessary when you can cook your entire meal in one pan? Like this absolutely genius divided grill pan with three separate sections. It's crafted from aluminum and features a nonstick granite coating, which means it’s durable and easy to wipe clean. Compatible with all stovetops, this is a cookware MVP.

A Portable Electronic Cleaning Kit For All Your Tech

Keep all your tech in like-new condition with this must-have keyboard cleaning kit. A variety of precision tools, sponges, and brushes won’t shed or scratch, and they promise to make it easy and safe to clean everything from laptops to earbuds. Plus, everything fits neatly into the carrying case for convenient storage and portability. With a 4.6-star rating after 6,000+ reviews, it’s a cleaning set that will get the job done.

A Magnetic Sensory Putty That’s So Fun

Melt away stress and anxiety with this tin of ferrite stones. The naturally magnetic stones cling together like puddy, providing a malleable mass that not only feels good to the touch but also produces a calming sound when rubbed together. They’re especially great for meditating and sensory play, or just for getting kids (or yourself) off screens.

The Cuddliest Blanket That Adds Luxe Texture

This is about to become your new favorite blanket that you’ll be reaching for all year round. Yup, it’s that good. Not only is the ribbed fleece ultra plush and cozy, but it’s lightweight and breathable too, offering just the right amount of warmth. And it’s available in a ton of colors and sizes so you can get one for your bed, the couch, and beyond for easy, luxurious texture. Choose from nearly three dozen colors and in all the sizes you could want.

A Must-Have 6-In-1 Kitchen Gadget

This brilliant kitchen gadget is perfect for saving space. That’s because it contains six kitchen tools in one portable and easy-to-store keychain design. Tools include a cheese grater, ginger grinder, pizza cutter wheel, bottle opener, vegetable and fruit peeler, and an herb stripper. It’s ideal for small spaces, camping trips, or dorm dwellers.

An Instant Print Camera With Helpful Extras

There’s something so satisfying about seeing your pics print instantly — and this camera lets you experience that right out of the box, since it comes with three rolls of printing paper. In addition to the 32GB memory card and USB charging cable, it also comes with markers to add fun doodles. With 16x zoom and even a timer shoot option, this little camera packs a lot of functionality into its compact size.

A Sleek Wallet That Holds & Protects It All

This amazing multi-purpose wallet holds it all — from credit cards and cash to passports and even your phone. And it even helps protect from digital theft with the built-in RFID blocking shield. The textured faux leather outer gives it an expensive look and feel but it’s actually really affordable. Choose from tons of colors to suit your vibe.

Elastic Shoe Laces To Make Every Shoe Slip-On

These innovative shoe laces first premiered on Shark Tank and promise to “turn every shoe into a slip on.” They’re made from super stretchy elastic for the ultimate comfort and flexibility. And since they feature a lightly textured surface, they stay put once tied, making them perfect for kids and adults. They’re available in a range of sizes and colors, so you can outfit the whole family.

An Adjustable Car Tray That’s Holds Your Phone & More

Car cup holders are great but what about a holder that can hold an entire meal (plus your phone)? That’s exactly what this amazing car tray table does. The base fits right into a car cup holder and offers a generously sized tray on a rotating arm that’s adjustable. And it even has a built-in cell phone holder.

A Popular Satin Pillowcase For Luxurious Sleep

A satin pillowcase is a must for taming frizz, keeping skin creases at bay, and staying cool all night. And this popular pillowcase set is about as great as it gets. It’s made from a luxuriously smooth and soft satin fabric and comes in 30-plus colors to suit your needs. And, yes, it’s totally machine-washable.

A Tiered Jewelry Organizer That Rolls Up

Judging by the portable size, you’d never guess that this clever roll-up jewelry organizer contains three roomy tiers — each lined with a soft, suede-like material to protect your valuables. When closed, it looks just like a leather clutch, complete with embossed detail, a convenient snap closure, and a cute tassel. No wonder it has a 4.7-star rating after nearly 5,000 reviews.

Stylish Earplugs For Calm Vibes

Literally block out the noise with these innovative earplugs. Silicone tips help block up to 17 decibels of noise, providing instant protection and relief. And the loop design, complete with a gold-tone finish, helps them pass for a fashion accessory, which means you can enjoy peace and quiet without sacrificing style.

A Space-Saving Whisk With A Near-Perfect Rating

With an ingenious, space-saving design, it’s no wonder this two-in-one whisk has earned a near-perfect, 4.7-star rating after more than 5,000 shopper have weighed in. Open it into a balloon shape for perfectly whipped cream or collapse it flat to create luscious sauces (and to save space in your kitchen drawers). Plus, the wires are made from silicone-coated stainless steel for maximum durability with no-scratch benefits.

A Foot Scrubber Shower Mat That Shoppers Love

Forget breaking your back or risking a slip and fall in the shower when you can get this clever foot scrubber mat instead. Step onto the soft silicone bristles to treat yourself to a luxurious, exfoliating foot scrub with included acupressure points. Strong suction cups keep it securely in place.

This Adorable Squishy Panda Night-Light

This cuddly little panda lamp makes for the perfect night-light or reading light. It features dimming capabilities for bright and low light options, and a timer means you can set it and fall asleep knowing it will turn off on its own. Since it’s rechargeable via USB, it’s so easy to toss in a suitcase for light on the go.

Bag Holder For Easier Filling

Trying to get a plastic food storage bag to stay put while you fill it isn’t always easy, making these brilliant bag stands a must-have kitchen gadget. Just adjust the arms to match the bag size (from snack to gallon), then use the clips to secure the ends of the bag to make filling a breeze. With two in a pack, you’ll be able to get so much meal prepping done.

A Monocular Telescope That Zooms In On The Small Details

Whether you’re birdwatching, traveling, or watching a game or concert from far away, this powerful monocular telescope delivers bright, high-contrast images across a wide field of view. It features 16x magnification with a large 52mm objective lens, letting you zoom in on sights without lugging around bulky gear. Waterproof and fog-resistant, it’s a dependable little tool for outdoor use.

A Portable Fire Pit That Keeps Smoke To A Minimum

Use this portable outdoor fire pit for dinner parties, backyard hangouts, and more. It’s made from stainless steel and features an easy-to-light design that won’t produce smoke. You can use both pellets or wood for the coziest-ever atmosphere.

A Cat Alarm Clock That’s A Night-Light & Sound Machine All In One

This three-in-one bedtime companion offers so much functionality. Not only is it an handy digital alarm clock, but it also offers 10 ambient lighting options and seven soothing sounds. Choose from three cute colors within the listing to suit your bedroom decor.

A Food Chopper That Preps It All

This manual food chopper is perfect for meal prep at home or on the go. It features three sharp stainless steel blades that can chop everything from fruit to veggies, and it even separates and whisks eggs. Just turn the smooth handle to operate. Remove the blade and insert the basket to turn it into a salad spinner.

A 3-Pack Of Garlic Peelers That Are So Easy To Use

Effortlessly peel garlic with this clever three-pack of garlic skin removers. The textured inner surface gently grips garlic skin, peeling it away with each rolling motion. As one shopper explained, “Peeling garlic can be tedious. This little gadget is amazing. Clove is inserted into the peeler, a few rolls back and forth (I use the palm of my hand) and out comes a perfectly peeled clove of garlic. Best thing you didn’t know you needed.”

A Giant Glove That Turns Your Hand Into An Ironing Board

Ideal for use with steamers or small irons, this glove is easy to loop onto your hand. Once you do, the thick sponge material will protect your appendage from the heat of the steamer or iron — it essentially turns your hand into a small ironing board. One reviewer wrote, “I ordered this to use with a new portable steamer. It made steaming garments so much safer and easier. No more worries about burning fingers while holding the garments to steam. Great idea and great product.”

A Cult-Fave Tumbler With Sipping Options

Shoppers are raving about Owala’s FreeSip tumbler, which boasts a 4.7-star overall rating after more than 100,000 reviews. Designed with both a built-in straw and a sipping hole, it’s totally leakproof — just press the button to drink. Plus, the double-wall stainless steel construction keeps hot drinks at just the right temperature for up to six hours. Choose from dozens of fun colors.

A Handy Endoscope Camera That Attaches To Your Phone Or Tablet

Turn your smartphone or tablet into a high-tech gadget with the help of this endoscope camera. It has a tk long cord, and on the end there’s a flashlight and you can attach a mirror, magnet, or hook. One reviewer wrote, “This is awesome!! Can use it anywhere and my kids enjoy using it as well. Multifunctional! Fun to use! Very helpful for finding things and issues with things.”

A Microwave Bacon Cooker For Leaner & Less Messy Results

If you love bacon but hate cleaning up the greasy mess from your stovetop, you’re going to go crazy for this clever bacon cooker. It’s designed to quickly and evenly cook bacon in the microwave while allowing for excess fat to run off of the racks and right into the tray. And clean up is easy, too — simply pop the whole thing into the dishwasher.

Floating Book Shelves That Look So Cool

With three silver-toned shelves in a set, you’ll be able to display all your books in such an elegant way. Reviewers report that installation is easy, with all hardware included. Each shelf can hold up to 20 pounds, so they’re guaranteed to hold up to your growing collection.

A Handy 6-Piece Screwdriver Set

These screwdrivers come in a set of six, and each one is a different size and orientation for different uses. The heads are magnetic, too, so you don’t have to worry about them clinging to your screws.

A Thermal Sticker Printer That’s Great For Fun & Organization

Whether you want to give this sticker maker to your kids for craft time or use it yourself for labeling everything in the pantry, it’ll be beyond useful. It connects via Bluetooth to an app so you can truly make whatever your heart desires. It uses thermal technology to create the labels and comes with a roll of sticker paper to get you started.

The Coolest Wooden Cactus Puzzle

Whether keeping for yourself or gifting to someone, this wooden cactus puzzle is truly a showstopper. It contains 200 pieces, although larger piece options are available within the listing (think: 1,000 if you’re a true puzzle master). The pieces are thick, laser cut, and durable. Not surprisingly, shoppers rave about the quality design.

A Window Privacy Film That Brings The Garden Inside

You can add privacy, protect against UV rays, and bring the garden vibes indoors with this window cling. It installs effortlessly using simply water and static, and the double-sided design peels off without leaving an residue behind. Choose from several pretty botanical scenes, each one durable and fade-proof.

An Outlet Adapter With A Wireless Remote

This programmable outlet adapter comes with a remote so you can control everything from your lights, TV, and more without ever having to get up (and from up to 100 feet away). Just plug them right into your existing outlets, plug in a lamp (or TV or anything, really), and sync them to the remote to begin using them right away.

A Pizza Cutter That Looks Like Bike

Kids and cycling enthusiasts will get a kick out of this pizza cutter. It looks just like a mini bicycle but instead of wheels, it has two sharp stainless steel cutters that effortlessly create perfect slices — and there’s even a stand to display it when not in use. The best part is that the whole thing can go right into the top rack of your dishwasher for equally effortless cleanup.

A Brightening Serum That’s A Skincare Staple

This brightening serum can be used just once a week to deliver exceptional results (just take a look at those 2,000+ positive reviews). Formulated with kojic acid, niacinamide, and azelaic acid, it targets discoloration and spots for bright, balanced skin. As one shopper reported, “Goes on smooth, and absorbs in the skin rather quickly. A little goes a long way, no need to cake it on. I would definitely say it is effective and it has become a staple in my skincare routine”

A Misting Spray Bottle That Works From All Angles

Not only does this innovative spray bottle pump out mist so fine that you’d think it was powered by aerosol, but it does that without tiring out your hands. Simply press the feather-light trigger to release a continuous mist — even when held sideways or upside down. It’s perfect for hairstyling, plant care, and more.

A Foldable Magnetic Phone Stand That Won’t Slip

Ditch that old phone stand that never seems to grip your phone right for this magnetic version that will literally never let you (aka your phone) down. This phone stand is slim and portable and features an adjustable and sturdy base. But the best part is the strong magnetic design. Just snap your phone on and get on with your business. Choose from more than a dozen colors to suit your space.

Hinge Toppers That Turn Boring Hardware Into A Charming Focal Point

These brass birds sit neatly on door hinge pins or attach to metal surfaces using discreet built-in magnets, adding a charming touch in unexpected places. Lightweight and easy to reposition, they can be placed on hinges, cabinets, shelves, picture frames, or any magnetic spot where you want a subtle upgrade. They’re the kind of decorative touch that shows your attention to detail. Each set comes with three birds.

A Rose Building Set That Is Timeless

This rose building set is a gift that just keeps giving. You get enough bricks to build three gold-tone roses that promise to spark joy every time you see them on your nightstand or end table — and unlike real flowers, they won’t wilt over time. The metallic finish adds elegance and it’s oh-so-satisfying seeing your work completed.

A Charming Lily Of The Valley Stained Glass Suncatcher

This best-selling stained glass suncatcher is exquisitely crafted from real glass and can easily be hung up with the included metal chain and hook. It features a richly toned lily of the valley scene that casts stunning light around your space. You can choose from so many scenes and sizes that work for your decor style.

A Cordless Lamp That You Can Move From Table To Nightstand

This vintage yet modern table lamp is entirely cordless, so you can move it with you from table to nightstand to desk, and back again. The rechargeable design has an incredibly long batter life, providing up to 13 days of light. With three color temperatures to choose from, it makes any room feel more elegant.

A Vanity Mirror That Fits In Your Pocket

If you’re still trying to touch up your makeup using your car’s sun visor mirror, do yourself a favor and upgrade to this portable vanity mirror. It fits right in your pocket but offers big convenience in the form of two mirrors (in 1X and 3X magnification) and bright lights along the borders. Clearly, it’s a best-selling beauty mirror for good reason.

Peel-And-Stick Window Film That Looks Like Stained Glass

Turn your ordinary windows into art wth this easy-to-install static cling window film. Its 3D holographic coating refracts sunlight into vivid rainbow reflections, while built-in UV protection helps reduce glare and sun damage without turning rooms dim. It’s a cheap and simple way to add daytime privacy while still letting natural light flow through your space.

A Versatile, Adjustable Air Duster With A Ton Of Attachments

“Works great! Easy to use and strong. Nice to have a rechargeable one. It has different power levels and handy light too. Perfect for keyboards and gaming consoles,” one shopper raved about this compressed air duster. Unlike a lot of others, it features five attachments and three speeds so you can use it to clean everything from laptops to cars.

A Snail Planter That Looks Like An Artisanal Find

This snail planter looks like something you’d find in a highly curated home goods store — so the price will truly shock you. Scoop it up in the featured snail design or spring for a cute hedgie, elephant, and more. The durable ceramic build comes with drainage holes for plant health, and since it’s glazed and weather-resistant, you can use it indoors or out.

A Bendable Holder For Out-Of-The-Way Sponge Storage

Instead of leaving your sponge on the countertop, give it a permanent place to live with this bendable holder. You can loop it around the base of your faucet or bend it over the divider of a double sink. The perforated design helps your sponge dry quickly, while the open bottom means you can also use this for storing handled scrub brushes.

A LEGO Set For Plant Lovers

Building blocks have come a long way since most of us were kids, and this plant lovers set is the proof. Once assembled, you’ll be staring back at an amazing botanical scene. This tiny plants LEGO set is so cute that you’ll want to show it off to friends and family. With 758 pieces in a set, you’ll be building for hours.

A Rice Water Shampoo Bar For Healthier Hair

In addition to being an eco-friendly alternative to bottled cleansers, shoppers say this shampoo bar works wonders on dry, damaged hair. It’s formulated with rice water protein to help cleanse, balance PH, and strengthen hair for silky smooth results. And you’re sure to love the delicate white tea and mandarin scent, too.

A Bottle Stopper That Doubles As A Lamp

Turn almost any bottle into a night-light with this clever bottle stopper that doubles as a lamp. Simply insert the rubber-lined stopper to create an air-tight seal, then tap the top to adjust the color temperature and brightness. It conveniently charges via USB cable, making it easy to keep powered.

A 2-Pack Of Cap Cages That Goes Right Into The Washer

Now you can toss all those smelly, sweaty caps right into the washer when you use these hat cages. The washer-ready cage creates a protective layer around most-sized caps, helping them keep their shape while getting nice and clean. Just place a cap between the cage, clip it closed, and toss it in the wash.

A Shatterproof Coffee Press With So Many Rave Reviews

Water and your favorite coffee grinds are all that’s needed to make the perfect cup of joe when you use this ingenious portable coffee press. It’s easy to use and features a fine filter that ensures no bitterness or grit. And since it's compact and made from shatterproof Tritan, it’s ideal for taking on the go. One satisfied shopper gushed, “The AeroPress is absolutely worth the hype, especially if you’re picky and want one of the best (if not THE best) tasting brew you can make.”

A Handheld Sprayer Attachment For Toilets

Turn any toilet into a bidet with this best-selling handheld sprayer kit. It’s quick and easy to install and clips right to the toilet tank for easy access (or mount it to the wall). Plus, it features an adjustable water pressure sprayer and a flexible braided stainless steel hose for added convenience and durability.

A Dual-Purpose Alarm Clock That Looks Like The Moon

Resembling the moon with its minimalist build, this alarm clock will look stunning on your nightstand — but it does so much more than. With gentle wake-up lighting, 10 soothing nature sounds, and a night-light function, it will create a serene oasis. It has three adjustable brightness levels, a snooze function, and multiple atmospheric lighting options, too.

A Car Organizer That Utilizes Unused Space

Make the most of unused space in your car with this stick-on seat organizer. Made from high-quality PU leather, it’s soft yet durable, with neat stitching and a waterproof, scratch-resistant finish. Mount it to seat seams or flat surfaces to store your phone, cards, glasses, receipts, or other small essentials. It’s an affordable and space-saving addition to any ride.

Mini Card Decks For Playing Games On The Go

Nothing beats playing cards for old-school entertainment, and these decks are perfect for an impromptu game of poker, spades, and more. Each features crisp, high-quality printing that keeps them from sticking together. The decks shuffle easily without feeling flimsy or frustrating, and they’re a fun, screen-free way to pass time with friends and family. There are five decks per pack, making them an excellent value for gifts and favors.

A Squishy Fidget Toy For Foodies

Made from non-toxic latex, this squishy fidget toy has a soft, slow-rising texture that’s genuinely satisfying to squeeze. Use it to help release stress, nervous energy, and anxious habits through simple, repetitive motion. The elasticity makes it ideal for kneading during work, study, or downtime, offering a calming sensory outlet without screens or noise — and the butter scent is a fun bonus.

Fruit-Shaped Hand Cream That Keeps Skin Smooth & Hydrated

These fruit-scented hand creams come in playful packaging, but their formula is serious about treating dry skin. They’re formulated with shea butter and various botanical extracts to nourish and soften dry skin, and they come in a bunch of different scents and shapes, like banana, apple, mango, and peach (in addition to strawberry, pictured above).

A Pocket-Sized Laser Level That Works In Dark Spaces

Designed for convenience, the mini torpedo level features strong magnets for hands-free use and LED-lit bubble vials that are easy to read in dim workspaces. It’s small enough to slip into a pocket or toolbox, and perfect for hanging pictures, aligning shelves, home renovation tasks, or DIY decorating. It’s a significant upgrade on traditional levels for a great price.

A Drawstring Makeup Pouch That Appeals To Cat Lovers

This roomy cat-shaped makeup bag keeps your everyday essentials contained without hogging counter space. The drawstring design opens wide so you can actually see what you packed, then cinches closed to keep your contents secure. Made from durable polyester with a playful 3D cat face, it’s a cheap, practical, and playful addition to your vanity, gym bag, or suitcase.

A Propagation Station With LED Lights To Help Your Plants Thrive

You can place your plant clippings in this four-vase propagation station and watch them thrive, even in low-light settings. That’s thanks to the integrated LED light strip that offers nine brightness settings. The durable beechwood design comes with an included USB port and charging cable to keep them juiced.

A Set Of Scrunchies That Glow In The Dark

When your accessories should be just as fun as the outfit, reach for these LED scrunchies. They feature three light modes that glow, flash, or shine steadily, turning a simple ponytail or bun into a full-on statement. Soft yarn construction keeps them comfortable and breathable, while a woven texture helps the lights shine brighter for extra visual impact. Each set includes six scrunchies.

Ballpoint Pens That Add Some Humor To Your Dumpster Fire Day

Life feeling like a dumpster fire? At least your writing utensils can match the mood when you have these ballpoint pens. Each one is topped with a mini dumpster fire with the message “I’m fine, it’s fine, everything is fine.” (Accurate.) And since 12 come in a pack, you can gift them to your coworkers, too.

A Stained Glass Night-Light That Casts Colorful Patterns

This night-light is more like a tiny, illuminated work of art. Featuring a vintage-inspired stained glass globe, it casts a colorful glow on the wall behind it. The stepless dimmer on the side lets you get bright light or soft, cozy illumination that’s perfect for midnight snack runs to the kitchen.

Flowery Toe Separators For Neater Home Pedicures

These toe separators create plenty of space to help you get a neat, smudge-free pedicure. But let’s not bury the lede — the, colorful flowery shapes give them the most whimsical look (you might just find yourself swapping shades midweek to use them again). Another bonus use? They can help stretch out your toes and alleviate discomfort after a day spent in tight shoes.

Crystal Knobs That Made Any Piece Of Furniture Look One Of A Kind

Got an old piece of furniture you’re tired of looking at? Swap in these crystal knobs to breathe new life into it. They have a gorgeous, gem-like design wrapped in copper wire, totally transforming even your most basic IKEA dresser. Choose from several shades including sapphire blue and emerald green.

Cracked Glass Solar Lights For A More Magical Outdoor Space

If your outdoor space is feeling lackluster in the evenings, it might be missing these solar-powered globe lights that create an instant cozy glow. The cracked glass surface feels vintage and magical, while the waterproof, weather-resistant design means you can leave them out even when the forecast calls for a downpour. Use them to line a walkway, to illuminate your patio table, or just scatter them around your garden.

Pearly Car Seat Headrest Hooks That Hold Bags In Style

Headrest hooks like these are an amazing way to keep purses and takeout bags up and off the floor (and not rolling around with every turn). This set takes things up a notch thanks to the pearl-dotted design that gives your interior some Chanel-inspired vibes. And though they look delicate, they can hold a hefty 44 pounds each.

A Retractable Car Charger That’s Also A Starry Sky Projector

Keeping your phone powered up in the car has never been easier... or more magical. This charger casts a starry projection on your car’s ceiling for a cool, galactic effect that you can turn off as needed. As for charging, you’ll get retractable Lightning and USB-C cables as well as two additional ports, making it easy to keep your devices juiced and ready to go.

A Piece Of Whimsical Decor For Coffee Lovers

This novelty “spilling coffee” home decoration is a real conversation piece. It’s crafted from sturdy plastic, so it won’t tip over, and the gravity-defying design is sure to liven up your workspace, kitchen countertop, or even a living room space. Measuring just over 2 inches tall, it’s a small but impactful addition.

A Hanging Gnome Garden Figurine With So Much Flair

This tiny garden gnome is living his best life on his swing perch — and the adorable figurine comes with twine for you to hang it wherever it will deliver the most joy. Crafted from durable, weatherproof resin, it’s a piece of yard decor that will hold up season after season.

]]><![CDATA[“I Chose The Wrong Guy To Have Kids With” & 45 Other Mom Confessions]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/i-chose-the-wrong-guy-to-have-kids-with-mom-confessionshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/i-chose-the-wrong-guy-to-have-kids-with-mom-confessionsFri, 10 Jul 2026 21:05:51 GMT
Galina Zhigalova/Getty Images

If this week’s confessions had a theme, it would be that moms can only hold it together for so long.

Moms showed up with the kinds of truths that don't always make it into the group chat or over coffee with a friend. The marriages that are silently breaking apart. The guilt that comes with wanting more or feeling exhausted. The loneliness that lingers even when you're surrounded by people you love. The anxiety, heartbreak, financial stress, fertility struggles, impossible decisions, and all the complicated feelings that come with trying to hold everything together.

Because sometimes the hardest things to admit out loud are the things that don't have an easy answer — the complicated feelings we tell ourselves we shouldn't have, because they are “wrong” or “scary.” But that's the beauty of Scary Mommy Confessions. They make space for the thoughts that often go unsaid, and remind us that the overwhelming parts of motherhood don’t erase the rest of who we are. Instead, these confessions serve as a reminder that we're never as alone in our thoughts as we may think, and that quite literally everyone is going through it.

Scary Mommy Confessions are a tried-and-true part of what makes our site so fun. If you want to anonymously confess, look for our weekly callouts on Instagram. And to browse past Confessions, take a look here.

]]><![CDATA[Does Stomping Help Bone Density? It's All Over My Instagram Feed]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/does-stomping-help-bone-densityhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/does-stomping-help-bone-densityFri, 10 Jul 2026 20:32:09 GMT
@drlaurakuan

When I was thinking about having kids, my algorithm spoon-fed me all the pregnancy content the internet had to offer (for better or for worse). When my son was born, boom: There were all the tummy time tips and sleep consultants ready to offer advice. But apparently now that I’m “of a certain age,” my algo has decided it’s time for me to start thinking about osteoporosis. Because lately, I keep getting served videos of women marching in place at the stove while they make dinner and literally stomping around the block in order to increase their bone density. So, I had to ask some experts: Does stomping help bone density?

Osteoporosis isn’t just a condition mentioned in drug commercials during daytime TV. Around 10 million Americans have osteoporosis and another 44 million have low bone density, according to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation. It occurs when your bones’ mineral density and overall mass decrease, making bones weaker and more prone to fractures. In some cases, those breaks can happen simply from bending over, coughing, or lifting an object.

Women over 50 are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis — nearly 1 in 5 women will be diagnosed compared to 1 in 20 men. The key to preventing it is to promote healthy bone density, obviously, which is mainly done through weight-bearing exercises like walking or dancing, and lifting weights. But if you spend time on social media, stomping seems to be the prevention method du jour.

Dr. Laura Kuan’s (@drlaurakuan on Instagram) post is one of many that made its way into my feed recently. In her video, she and her mom appear to be on an evening stroll, the pair stomping their way around the neighborhood and even adding in a small jump here and there, all in the name of staving off osteoporosis.

“Through resistance training and exercises that impact the bones, we can drastically slow down and even stop (the earlier you start, the better) bone and muscle loss,” she wrote in the caption. “When you do, you are sending physical signals to your muscles and bones to build MORE. That signal does not come from walking, swimming, biking, cardio. That signal only comes from something that challenges the muscles and bones enough. So once an exercise becomes too easy, you must incrementally increase challenge to continue building up bone and muscles.”

Kuan’s mom is 72 and has osteoporosis, her caption goes on to explain. “We just found out her osteoporosis medication did not work, and now she’s high risk for fractures. I’m hoping this is the wake-up call she needed to start taking training seriously. Cuz she’s too important to me to watch her struggle and suffer.”

Why would stomping around improve your bone density? Activities that put stress on your bones, like walking or weight lifting, stimulate extra deposits of calcium and cue your cells to build more bone to handle that stress. “The result is stronger, denser bones,” Harvard Health says.

It’s true — there are some studies that show jumping increased bone density in premenopausal women. While walking, jogging, and dancing are all considered safe weight-bearing exercises, Dr. Alexandra Reese, a rheumatologist at Cleveland Clinic, says she wouldn’t recommend going straight to jumping and stomping... especially if you don’t know what your bones can handle.

“Unfortunately there’s not really anything that cues you into the diagnosis of osteoporosis besides fractures,” she says. “These videos have good intent and I think they’re kind of touching on weight-bearing exercising, but I think [stomping] could be a little more damaging to the joints and the bones if somebody does truly have osteoporosis.”

The most common fractures in people with osteoporosis include wrist, hip, spinal, and ankle fractures, Reese explains, and that’s usually how they find out they have osteoporosis in the first place. So, taking to the streets to forcefully stomp around on concrete may not be wise if you’re trying to prevent breaks, she advises.

The CDC recommends all women undergo a DEXA scan to evaluate their bone density at age 65, or between 50 and 64 if they have certain risk factors, like a family member who has broken a hip. But preventive measures need to start well before age 50, experts say. For Reese, the ideal time to make weight training, resistance training, and bodyweight exercises part of your routine is in your 20s, though it’s especially important during menopause, when bone loss really accelerates.

“Our highest bone density is going to be when we’re 30. So make sure any time in your 30s, 40s, 50s, that you’re continuing with a weight-bearing strengthening program, exercising with weights two to three times a week,” says Colleen Scordato, PT, DPT of Orlando Health Outpatient Rehabilitation.

Including balance exercises into your wellness routine is crucial to preventing falls and fractures too, both Scordato and Reese point out. “Make sure that you’re incorporating balance with your exercise to include tandem stance — which is standing with one foot in front of the other — or single-leg stance or single-leg stance with eyes closed. Certain yoga poses, like the warrior pose, are also good ways to practice your balance. For weight training, use free weights instead of machines because those free weights are going to have a component of balance within them,” Scordato says.

Whether you get your activity in through jogging, lifting, pilates, pickleball, or just dancing around the house, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any high-impact activities — especially if you know your bone density is low, says Reese.

“Make sure you talk with either your primary care doctor or your rheumatologist if you already have a diagnosis of osteoporosis; then you can just see what exercises are safe for you.”

]]><![CDATA[What Is Aura Farming & Will It Fix My Life If I Try It?]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/what-is-aura-farming-will-it-fix-my-life-if-i-try-ithttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/what-is-aura-farming-will-it-fix-my-life-if-i-try-itFri, 10 Jul 2026 14:17:56 GMT
Ippei Naoi/Moment/Getty Images

The first time I saw the phrase “aura farming,” I was scrolling Instagram late at night and some woman had made a short reel of herself doing things like baking bread, watering plants, stacking books on a bookshelf — you know, cozy things. Like she was creating this little space for herself to fulfill her #cottagecore dreams. Digging deeper into the term “aura farming,” I found a viral “boat dance” inspired by an 11-year-old Indonesian boy who became internet-famous for his incredibly cool dance moves on a racing boat during a traditional Indonesian festival.

And then I was stumped.

Unsure of how one related to the other, I continued to swirl into the hashtagged eye of the storm until I found an explanation. Everyone knows your “aura” is like the overall vibe and energy you bring as a person, and “farming” is a video game term that relates to collecting points and leveling up. So, combined, “aura farming” is basically a term that describes creating a cool presence or doing something purely to represent the vibe or aura you want to give off.

It sounds silly. But honestly, I think all of us should be “aura farming” right about now.

While the trend seems to be steeped in vanity (many Reddit threads explain that “aura farming” is often something characters in video games and movies do by creating some kind of presence that doesn’t actually push any storylines along — like a villain that just shows up and waves their cape wildly), I think “aura farming” sounds a lot like manifesting.

Leave it to the youth to rebrand the ancient art of manifesting as a totally new thing. But you see, there’s a reason the phrase “fake it ‘til you make it” is a thing, and when so many of us are looking for ways to improve our lives or to feel better each day, it seems like taking up “aura farming” could be the way to make that happen.

Want to be that person who gets up before your kids? Start pretending like you are, and then boom — suddenly you’re there.

Want to live a softer, slower life? Light candles and play the soundtrack from The Holiday like you already do, and wow, look at all that aura you just farmed.

Want to be seen as the cool, chic, fashionable icon in your friend group? My friend, all you have to do is wear the clothes and pretend like you are, and wham bam, look who’s effortlessly cool now.

If aura farming is all about presenting the vibe you want to have, then isn’t it just manifestation? In a world where we are constantly being told how to improve ourselves and what we should do to hit goals A, B, and C in our brains, doesn’t it make sense to just act like the vibe you want to present, and it will become your actual personality?

It’s like that silly little quote that goes around wellness pages and communities — you don’t have to be “that girl” because you are “that girl.”

Everyone around us is faking it ‘til they make it. Not everybody who wakes up at 5 a.m. is a natural morning person, and not everybody who picks up a hobby is good at it from the very start. Not all parents find it enriching to play Barbies with their kid on the floor, and not everybody loves making small talk in the grocery store line with a lonely grandmother.

But they do these things. They wake up every day and try to be a better person, a kinder person, a more patient person, a nicer person. They try to make those around them have a better day than they would have otherwise, and they want the world to see them as a good, successful, smart person. Even if you just want to feel like a cooler person, that’s a worthwhile endeavor too! Wear the colorful glasses with the funky cardigan, why don’t you?

They’re “aura farming.” And maybe we could all expend a little more of our energy into being the kind of people we want to be by simply pretending we already are. Because while we’re pretending, everyone else is just perceiving us as being ourselves.

]]><![CDATA[14 Things That'll Actually Make You Want To Have Sex Again]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/14-things-thatll-actually-make-you-want-to-have-sex-againhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/14-things-thatll-actually-make-you-want-to-have-sex-againFri, 10 Jul 2026 13:16:56 GMT
Hinterhaus Productions/Stone/Getty Images

There’s a particular kind of irony to motherhood: You can spend all day being climbed on, touched, grabbed at, and needed — only to crawl into bed next to a partner you genuinely love and feel approximately as horny as a throw pillow.

If that sounds familiar, know this: There’s nothing wrong with you, and your relationship isn’t doomed. (I swear.)

Yes, those beautiful children are a blessing. But they’re also kind of draining every last ounce of energy from your body like a literal parasite (said with love). The good news? There are ways to make desire feel a lot more accessible, and we’re not going to tell you that putting on lingerie or lighting a candle after surviving the circus from hell that is bedtime will solve your problems.

Below, we’ve tapped experts for the best products, tips, and tools that can actually help you reconnect with your body, your desire, and maybe even your sex life after having kids. Because sometimes it’s less about trying a new sex position and more about removing some of the biggest barriers standing between you and pleasure (and no, “getting eight uninterrupted hours of sleep” is not currently on the table).

Get Bloodwork Done Before Blaming Your Libido

Before you blame your libido, make sure something physical isn’t going on behind the scenes. Amanda Frick, SVP of Medical, Clinical, and Scientific Affairs at Thorne, says some of the most common nutrient deficiencies for moms include iron, vitamin D, B vitamins, omega-3s, and magnesium, all of which can tank your energy, mood, and overall well-being. So if you’re exhausted, foggy, irritable, and wondering why sex sounds about as appealing as assembling a toddler trampoline, ask your doctor to run bloodwork.

Read Something Sexy

For some moms, the fastest route back to desire starts in the brain, not the bedroom. Sex therapist and LELO sexpert, Laurie Mintz, PhD, says research shows that reading erotica can help turn women on, making it a great low-pressure way to reconnect with your sexuality, especially if jumping straight into physical intimacy feels like A LOT.

Whether that means devouring romance novels, downloading Kindle Unlimited, or finally giving that wildly unhinged BookTok smut recommendation a chance, a little fantasy can go a long way. Carve out some time to read before bed and who knows? You might find your libido didn’t need fixing at all; your brain just needed something other than to-do lists and laundry to obsess over.

Watch Something Sexy

Visual stimulation gets the job done faster than just about anything else, and Mintz says watching can be a straightforward way to spark arousal and give your mind a break from the endless mental tabs motherhood tends to keep open.

Now, that doesn’t have to mean jumping straight into porn (but zero shame if you do). Maybe it’s finally watching that sexy show everyone keeps talking about, revisiting a movie scene that always does it for you, or yes, exploring ethical porn made with female pleasure at the forefront. Sometimes you need to shove some sexy stimulus in front of your face (or, er, eyes) to snap yourself out of the snack requests, screen time limits, and tomorrow’s lunchboxes loop for five damn minutes.

Listen to Something Sexy

If reading or watching just feels like one more thing to squeeze onto your already-overflowing to-do list, audio erotica might be more your speed. Mintz says listening to erotica can help spark arousal by giving your brain something sexy to focus on, without requiring you to stare at a screen, flip a bunch of pages, or carve out a huge chunk of time.

Apps like Dipsea and Quinn offer sexy stories and guided audio designed to help ease you into the mood. And because it’s hands-free, you can listen while folding laundry, walking the dog, or hiding in the pantry for five minutes pretending you’re “looking for snacks.”

Don’t Underestimate What Good Lube Can Do

Let’s normalize something that should’ve been normalized a long time ago: Lube isn’t just for people having wild, acrobatic sex. It’s for anyone who wants sex to feel better — period. “The hormonal changes associated with lactation and menopause can produce decreased lubrication and even sexual pain,” says Mintz, which can make sex anywhere from mildly uncomfortable to downright painful.

That’s where a good lubricant comes in. Whether you prefer something silicone-based like Uberlube for extra glide or a water-based option that plays nicely with toys (more on this later), adding lube can reduce friction, increase comfort, and make it a whole lot easier to focus on pleasure instead of wondering why everything suddenly feels… sandpapery.

If Dryness Is the Problem, Try a Vaginal Moisturizer

Think of it this way: Lube helps in the moment, but a vaginal moisturizer helps address dryness between sexual encounters. So if things feel dry, irritated, or generally uncomfortable even when sex isn’t on the table, you may need more than just extra glide. Mintz recommends over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers like Revaree or Hyalo Gyn, both of which help restore moisture and improve comfort over time. And if dryness is severe or persistent, talk to your doctor.

Consider Pelvic Floor Support

If sex hurts, your body is probably not going to keep enthusiastically signing up for it, and honestly, fair enough. Frick notes that if pelvic floor symptoms, discomfort during intercourse, or persistent pain are part of the picture, working with a pelvic floor physical therapist can make a meaningful difference. Depending on your needs, tools like pelvic wands or dilator sets may also help with tension, pain, and mobility.

And FWIW, you never need to just grin and bear painful sex. Talk to your OB-GYN. Truly. Low libido, pain during sex, dryness, and body weirdness are all firmly in the “this is literally their job” category.

Reconnect With Your Body Through Solo Play

If it’s been a while since you’ve felt truly connected to your body outside of keeping tiny humans alive, masturbating can be a surprisingly helpful place to start. Mintz notes that some research shows self-pleasure can actually increase desire for partnered sex, since reconnecting with what feels good on your own can make intimacy feel a lot less intimidating.

The goal here isn’t to pressure yourself into having some life-changing orgasm every time you lock the bathroom door (but fingers crossed). It’s simply curiosity. Maybe that means trying a compact toy like LELO MIA 2 or LELO NEO 3, experimenting with a suction toy (the Sona 3 will change your life), or reaching for a mini vibrator. Think of it less as performance and more as giving yourself permission to explore pleasure in this version of your body.

Bring a Toy Into Partner Sex

Let’s retire the idea that bringing a vibrator into bed means something is wrong with your sex life. For many couples, it simply means working smarter, not harder. Mintz says women who incorporate vibrators into partner sex tend to be more satisfied and more orgasmic — which, frankly, tracks.

Try a couples toy like LELO TOR 3 or, honestly, just grab a classic wand vibrator and hold it where you want it. More pleasure doesn’t kill intimacy. If anything, it makes sex a lot easier to actually look forward to.

Buy Yourself Some Damn Privacy

Want to know what’s not sexy? The possibility of your toddler barging in mid-makeout asking for applesauce. Mintz notes that postpartum — whether it’s months or years post-birth — desire is closely tied to practical support, including help with childcare and household responsibilities — which means, yes, logistics matter more than we like to admit. And let’s be honest: Odds are none of us are getting enough help.

So buy yourself some privacy however you can, if you can. Hire a babysitter. Crank up a sound machine. Put a deadbolt on your bedroom door. Book a hotel room if you’re feeling ambitious, or burn a PTO day if you have to. Turns out, one of the hottest things on earth might just be a locked door or a “do not disturb” sign.

Do Something That Makes You Feel Like You Again

Motherhood can make it weirdly easy to stop feeling like a full person and start feeling like a 24/7 snack dispenser, chauffeur, and emotional support cardboard cutout. Healthy libido is often rooted in feeling comfortable and grounded in your body, Frick says, which is something that can feel frustratingly hard during the physical and emotional chaos of early motherhood.

Prioritize the everything shower. Put on the perfume you love. Climb into clean sheets. Throw on the robe or pajamas that make you feel expensive. You don’t need lingerie with a million straps and a crotch section that looks actively hostile to a postpartum vagina. You might just need to let someone else handle bedtime while you slap on a face mask every once in a while.

Stop Treating Sex Like a Race to Penetration

Here’s a wildly freeing thought: Penetration is optional. OPTIONAL! If P-in-V sex has started feeling stressful or weirdly high-pressure, taking it off the table altogether can make intimacy feel a whole lot less intimidating.

Mintz says many moms benefit from embracing responsive desire, meaning arousal often builds after touch begins, not before. So slow way down. Start with a massage. Make out like teenagers. Focus on touch, oral, manual stimulation, or literally anything that feels good. You can even say ahead of time that penetration isn’t happening so everyone’s on the same page, the pressure is off, and you’re free to explore other ways to feel good.

Talk About Sex Even If It Feels Awkward

Speaking of taking penetration off the table, talking about sex in general — ideally before it’s happening, or while it’s not happening — is kind of paramount. Mintz puts it simply: Couples who talk about sex have better sex. Open communication can help you and your partner navigate changing needs, shifting boundaries, and the very real ways parenthood can affect intimacy.

It can be as simple as saying, “I miss this part of us,” “I need more warm-up lately,” or “This actually felt really good.” And if starting that conversation feels painfully awkward, tools like intimacy card decks, couples conversation prompts, or even a shared journal can help break the ice.

Schedule Intimacy (Yes, Really)

I know, I know. Scheduling sex sounds about as sexy as scheduling a dentist appointment. Maybe worse, because at least at the dentist you can sit in a chair by yourself for a hot second. But Mintz says one of the most practical ways for moms to reconnect with desire is to stop waiting around for spontaneous horny-at-midnight magic and instead make intimacy fit the reality of this stage of life.

That might mean planning for a weekend nap window, blocking off an hour before school pickup, or simply not defaulting to the awkward “my partner clearly wants it, but I just need to sleep” song and dance when you’re both running on fumes. Take it from an exhausted mom who wants to pass TF out at 8pm: Lunchtime sex really does beat post-bedtime sex.

Your sex life after kids may look different than it did before, and that’s okay. Different doesn’t have to mean dead. It might just mean some dry-humping in the other room while a little bonus screen time buys you a few uninterrupted minutes.

Rachel Varina is a full-time freelance writer with a decade-long history of writing about things that she hopes her parents never read. You’ve probably seen her bylines in Cosmopolitan, Betches, Brides.com, Elite Daily, Women’s Health, Business Insider, and more. You’ve probably also seen her yelling at men on Threads. She has two kids, two dogs, and is pretty much always running at 2% (both on her phone and on her emotional reserves). Follow her on Instagram, X, Threads, and wherever else the kids are posting these days (@rachelvarina) so she gets more followers than that influencer her husband dated in high school.

]]><![CDATA[What Happens In Your Brain When Your Child Stops Needing You, According To Experts]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/what-happens-to-brain-when-child-stops-needing-you-empty-nest-syndromehttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/what-happens-to-brain-when-child-stops-needing-you-empty-nest-syndromeThu, 09 Jul 2026 20:03:30 GMT
MoMo Productions/Getty Images

One of the most beautiful and simultaneously heartbreaking things about motherhood is watching the child you created — that you built inside of your own body, spun from your very cells — learn to live in the world without you. It starts small. One day, they can suddenly reach the cereal shelf themselves. Or they don’t ask you for help with their homework. Then the milestones get bigger and bigger until you’re staring down the driveway as they pull off, headed to destination unknown with their friends.

Somewhere in your chest, a tiny alarm goes off: The person who’s spent the better part of their existence needing you… doesn’t really need you anymore.

Before you start rocking back and forth on the living room floor, rest assured that they’ll always need you on some level. Even when they’d love for you to believe otherwise. But the cruel truth is that your role as a mother is inextricably linked to the disappearance of your child’s dependence on you. The more you mother, the less they’ll need you for the everyday stuff.

And yet, you’re left wondering why you feel like you got run over by an 18-wheeler when this was, technically, the whole point.

Sometimes it helps to pick things apart from a scientific perspective, so let’s try that. I asked specialists in psychology and human behavior to explain what happens “beneath the hood” when your child no longer needs you.

This isn’t just about feelings.

There’s an obvious neurological component to all of this, because your brain spent years (decades even) rewiring itself around one job. Naturally, it doesn’t just power down when that job quote-unquote ends.

"Parenting changes the brain even before the baby is born," says Cheryl Groskopf, LMFT, LPCC, an anxiety, trauma, and attachment therapist based in Los Angeles. "The parts of the brain that handle threat detection, empathy, and reading other people's emotions all get stronger. The amygdala — which scans for danger — becomes extra attuned to a child's cries and needs. The prefrontal cortex gets better at reading distress and responding fast."

There was an infrastructure behind all those years of being able to hear your kid cough from three rooms away or know almost instantly when they were hurt. Your body and brain and, really, your whole being were scaffolded around caring for your kid.

So, yeah, things get a little weird when the demand disappears.

"The brain is essentially still running on its old programming," Groskopf says. "It's still scanning for a child's needs out of habit, even when the child isn't there anymore. This mismatch causes a lot of the strange, unsettled feelings parents describe, like restlessness or feeling useless. The brain built its whole reward system around being needed, and that system doesn't turn off just because life changed."

Dr. Laura Bojarskaitė, a neuroscientist at the University of Oslo, describes it as a prediction problem.

"Your brain has spent two decades predicting that someone needs you at 7 a.m., after school, at dinner," she says. "When that structure disappears, the brain's predictions keep firing into empty space. Grief researchers describe something similar after other losses: The discomfort is partly your brain's internal model slowly updating to a new reality. That takes time, and it's not a character flaw."

I’m going to need you to read that last part again: not a character flaw. You are allowed to feel some kind of way about this transition. It’s real grief, even though nothing “bad” has actually happened. As far as your brain is concerned, you are basically mourning.

"The brain doesn't file 'a role ending' separately from 'a person leaving,'" Groskopf explains. "Both get processed as a break in connection — and both can register as genuine pain. Empty nest is also tangled up in identity because a huge part of how a parent sees themselves gets built around being needed by this one specific person, every day, for years. Losing that role means losing a version of yourself, not just losing daily contact with your kid."

Dr. Christa Smith, a clinical psychologist with Cerevity, puts it this way: "Being needed is a role the mind organizes itself around. So when that role winds down, what people are grieving isn't only their child's absence; it's a version of themselves that had a clear, urgent job. The loss is partly a person and partly a self."

And, yowch, that nailed me like a sledgehammer. Because as a mom of two teens who increasingly need me for less and less, I’ll admit I’ve been feeling a bit like I don’t know who I am anymore. “A loss of self.” How very accurate.

Rikki Grace, MA, LPCC-S, a licensed professional clinical counselor in Columbus, Ohio, also knows this paradigm on a personal level. A newly empty-nesting mom of three, she’s done some floundering of her own.

"I have been referred to as someone's mom for longer than I've been known by my own name," she shares. "In some ways, you may find it feels like a death. It's the passing of an era in life with a kind of finality that you've never experienced in exactly this way before. You may also feel something like a rebirth."

Why some parents fall apart and others book a cruise

I haven’t quite reached the point where my kids have completely flown the coop (I can’t even think about that yet!), but one thing I’ve noticed from watching people who have hit that milestone is that some seem to handle it so effortlessly. Like, the kids are gone; let’s book a cruise! Go on a safari! Turn their room into a home gym!

And while I’m happy for those parents, surely other moms will be white-knuckling their way through this whole process like me… right?

According to the experts, a lot of thriving versus just surviving comes down to how much of your identity got fused to the job. "A parent whose meaning, structure, and social world all ran through their kids has far more to rebuild than one who kept other parts of their identity alive alongside the parenting years," Smith says. "Timing compounds it. If the empty nest lands alongside other transitions — like a career shift or aging parents — the losses stack."

Ah, yes, here’s where the fact that I’m a millennial sandwiched between my kids’ teen years, perimenopause, and my aging parents kicks in. Validation has never felt so… exhausting.

When it's more than a rough patch

OK, so how do we soften the blow here? How much sadness is normal and expected? Where’s the line?

"Sadness that comes in waves but lifts is expected," Smith says. "If low mood, loss of interest, changes in sleep or appetite, or a sense of pointlessness persist most days for a couple of weeks or start interfering with daily functioning, that's worth taking to a professional rather than waiting out."

As for what actually helps (read: “get a hobby” is not a cure-all), the experts were unanimous on one point: the fix isn’t necessarily a busier calendar. It’s the real substance behind what you’re filling your days with.

"What helps the people who thrive isn't just staying busy," Smith says. "It's rebuilding a sense of purpose and identity that isn't borrowed from the caregiving role, reinvesting in relationships that got sidelined during the parenting years, and letting the bond with your child evolve into an adult one instead of trying to preserve the old dynamic. The parents who do well tend to treat this as a real identity project, not just an empty calendar to fill."

Bojarskaitė points to a science-backed suggestion: sleep. "Major life transitions reliably disrupt sleep, and poor sleep amplifies emotional reactivity and rumination, which can make normal empty-nest sadness feel much heavier," she says. "Protecting sleep during the transition is one of the most concrete things parents can do."

And, as Grace reminds me, just as raising a kid is a study in reframing situations and scenarios and possible problems, this is a time in our lives when we may need to look at life through a new viewpoint.

“As your now-adult child considers what they want for the next step of their lives, you get to think about that for yourself, too. What do you hope for? When you step onto that proverbial bus to kindergarten, where would you like it to go?"

In other words, our brains will rebuild. We’ll re-architect the scaffolding. Until then, we just gotta hang in there.

]]><![CDATA[The Verdict Is In: June Diane Raphael Is The Mom Elle Woods Deserved]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/june-diane-raphael-elle-interviewhttps://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/june-diane-raphael-elle-interviewThu, 09 Jul 2026 18:11:37 GMT

For 25 years, we’ve known Elle Woods on the other side of adolescence. When we met the iconic character, she was Harvard-bound and bend-and-snap confident. And, as we saw over the course of two Legally Blonde movies, congenitally impossible to underestimate. But that sort of tenacity doesn’t just come out of thin air — strong women are so often an amalgamation of the strong women who came before us, a kaleidoscope of stories and lived experiences. Who, then, helped piece together the Elle we all know and love today?

Enter Eva Woods. In Elle, Prime Video’s new ‘90s-set prequel to Legally Blonde, June Diane Raphael plays Elle’s mom: an impossibly polished, sometimes overbearing, but relentlessly devoted mother who is (after her husband botches a nose job badly enough to force the family out of Bel-Air) reluctantly rebuilding her family’s picture-perfect life… in grunge-era Seattle.

For Raphael, who most of us came to adore as the glorious child-free workaholic Brianna in Grace and Frankie, it’s a swerve. In real life, she’s a proud mother of two sons. Yet here, she is playing the ultimate girl mom, drawing on her own late mother to do it (“a mom who was so deeply hilarious and funny and would make me laugh so hard”). The result is the kind of mother-daughter relationship you don’t see often in pop culture, one built on love that is occasionally misguided, sure, but deeply fierce.

We caught up with Raphael to talk about cast chemistry, revisiting the ‘90s, and the specific ache of realizing your kid might not need you the way they used to.

Scary Mommy: Elle Woods is basically a national treasure at this point. How did you step into the role of the woman who raised her?

June Diane Raphael: I feel like Elle Woods raised me, and so many women of my generation. I remember the mom being played beautifully in the movie, but she had such limited real estate — so in a way, it was great to have a blank slate to create this character from. I love the idea that every woman is made up of all these different women in her life who've helped her, challenged her, supported her, and loved her so hard. It's been an honor to play her mother.

There's such a beautiful mother-daughter story in this show, and one I'm really proud to be part of, because those representations can sometimes get a little strange in pop culture. There's competition, all sorts of weird stuff. In Elle, the relationship is really rooted in so much love and support. Even when Eva's doing the wrong thing, she still always has Elle's best interests at the forefront.

SM: I recently saw Legally Blonde back in theaters for its anniversary, and the audience was full of young women. How important was it to feel like you're passing the baton to the next generation of Elle Woods fans?

JDR: I think that so many moms and daughters will watch Elle together, which is really special. For women of my generation, my character kind of stands in for a lot of us because we're the same age. I was 21 when the movie came out, and it was so important for me at that time to see.

That basic theme of Legally Blonde of unapologetically being who you are, even when the world doesn't believe in you or underestimates you, and then that story around this woman who’s hyper-feminine and loves hair and makeup and clothes … and is still really smart — it's really simple in a way and yet was incredibly necessary at that time, and arguably just as important now. I can't wait for women of my generation to see it and share it with the younger women in their lives.

SM: This show is like a '90s time capsule. What was your favorite part of bringing that specific aesthetic to life?

JDR: Sara Byblow designed our costumes, and the clothes are so beautiful; I get to wear so much vintage Chanel and Versace. They're just stunning. One of the things I really love about the wardrobe is that Eva is always dressed to the nines. With the dawn of athleisure, I'm in workout clothes most of the day whether or not I'm actually working out, so I loved playing someone who's always dressed up, even for school drop-off.

Also, the Rolodex I use — where I get to spin it around and around and around, and there’s all these Post-its coming out of it — and the landlines with the big buttons, and all that … it's so tactile, the experience. There's something really satisfying about it.​

SM: Lexi Minetree is a newcomer stepping into Reese's shoes. What was it like building a mother-daughter shorthand with her?

JDR: I feel I didn't build it; it was always there. I met Lexi when I was auditioning for the role. They flew her to LA, and I had a meeting with her before we read any of the scenes. The feeling was really like, "I'm meeting you again, but not for the first time. It’s great to see you. We’ve known each other forever." It just felt so natural, so quickly.

Sometimes you really do have to build chemistry with another actor and get to know them. And for whatever reason — these things are guided by the big guy in the sky, I don't know — we just had that feeling right away … I love her dearly. She’s a very special person, and I'm blown away by how she stepped into this role. Her talent, of course, is one piece of it, and it’s a huge piece. Just showing up to do that with that amount of pressure and with that amount of eyeballs on this, it’s a lot. It’s a lot for someone my age. It’s a whole lot for someone her age. I’m really proud of her.

SM: She’s so convincing as Elle.

JDR: So convincing. At the same time, the connection between her and Reese is otherworldly. And it is her own Elle Woods, too. She’s pulled off a real magic trick here. I have to ask her how she did it, because it’s straight-up spooky.

SM: There's a whole world that women in Hollywood are building now, putting women into these roles and telling these stories. What's it like to be part of that with Reese?

JDR: It was very special. Reese came to Vancouver, where we were shooting the first season, and we had dinner and talked about her experience with the movie and motherhood. She'd just had a baby when she was shooting Legally Blonde, which kind of blew me away. I'm also a mom, traveling and working for the show and playing a mom, so there was a lot we connected on around that.

And I'll always say this about her: She’s built Hello Sunshine and this entire community-platform company around this idea of telling women’s stories — women who are complicated and real and funny and demented — and showing their full humanity. Working with her and the Hello Sunshine team, they really do walk the walk. They really are supporting all the women on our show. I mean, specifically me, who’s doing this job with children and schedules and trying to remain sane. I could not have felt more supported by all the people around Reese who made it possible. So that was cool to see that it’s not just a slogan for them; it’s absolutely how they run things.

SM: You're an incredible advocate for women yourself. You don’t shy away from using your voice, even writing a book encouraging women to run for office. And the roles you take are complex, dimensional women. Is that something you very consciously seek out? What's your hope for the message of your body of work?

JDR: It is something I seek out because I really love women. I find women to be endlessly fascinating and complicated. And for me, just comedically, there's something about women who are a little demented that I just respond to. This is really coming from a mom who was so deeply hilarious and funny and would make me laugh so hard; I found women to always just be funny, to always have something to say that I was interested in listening to.

The roles I'm attracted to are complicated women who don't always do the right thing. Sometimes they're quite wrong, in fact. But my hope is that by showing all the sides of women, we ultimately create more space for them in real life. It's one of the reasons I loved Grace and Frankie so much: There’s a show about two women in their late 70s who are hilarious and beautiful and sexual and smart and starting a business, doing all these things we often just don't let women do. We don't let ourselves see women that way.

SM: And in Elle, we get to see you at the tricky stage of mothering a teenager...

JDR: Stepping into this role, this is one of the first times I've really played a mom. Brianna in Grace and Frankie was famously childless, which was also really important for me to do. But I'm loving the experience of sharing this part of me — the motherhood part — which is so rich with humor, but also just humanity and sharing the difficult moments of, "Oh, I do know what it is to have a child who's getting older."

All of a sudden, like Eva, you're not quite sure how that's hitting you. There's grief in that, and there's fear in that, and do they need you anymore? And if you're not a mom anymore, then what are you? All of these feelings are, as an actor, such fertile areas to play in.

To your point about empowering women, sometimes these words are used so often that we forget what they mean. The language is like, “Oh yeah, this is a show that empowers women, empowers young girls,” but what does it actually mean? And I do think Legally Blonde is such a great example: There's real data about how many women went to law school after seeing Elle Woods do it. That's real. We needed to see that.

I needed to see that certainly, too — that you could, like Reese, be really feminine and do big physical comedy and play a giant character who's super-funny but also real, and who we care about and we’re rooting for. All of those dimensions are so important to see. And ultimately, with women, we so often just narrow the box.

This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

]]><![CDATA[11 Canned Tomato Recipes For The Nights You Can't Think Of Anything To Make]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/canned-tomato-recipeshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/canned-tomato-recipesThu, 09 Jul 2026 18:08:58 GMT
Averie Cooks

When it comes to pantry staples, I often think about baking first. I stay stocked up on flour, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract always. And then there are seasonings, sure — no kitchen is complete without a library of herbs and salts. But I often forget about the canned goods in my pantry. Like, shouldn’t we all be keeping a variety of beans on hand, and plenty of rice? Recipes with canned tomatoes are super common too, and more than once I’ve found myself craving chili but lacking a much-needed 28-ounce can of crushed maters.

If you are scanning your canned goods and looking for a way to use up your own collection of canned tomatoes (because you are a better pantry keeper than I), here is some inspo that will not disappoint.

Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

All The Healthy Things

Cheesy tortellini, spicy sausage, and a rich, creamy broth? All The Healthy Things’ tortellini soup recipe sounds like exactly what I want at the end of a very long day. It’s a great reminder that among the canned tomatoes you should keep on hand for cooking, a can of fire-roasted ones is key.

Sunday Slow-Cooker Beef Ragu

Budget Bytes

You may have to make a trip to the store to get a boneless beef shoulder roast, but you likely have most everything else you need to make Budget Bytes’ slow-cooker beef ragu in your pantry. This is an easy and incredibly satisfying canned tomato recipe that makes so. Much. Sauce. You could easily freeze some for a future dinner.

30-Minute One-Pot Cabbage Rolls

Averie Cooks

A 30-minute meal that only requires one pot? Say no more. Averie Cooks’ unstuffed cabbage rolls get you all that same flavor and texture of a classic cabbage roll without the assembly. This is not a dish I would normally think to include in my weeknight rotation, but yes, it’ll help you use up that big can of crushed tomatoes quite nicely.

Seven-Can Chicken Taco Soup

Princess Pinky Girl

If you are relying heavily on the canned goods tonight, you have to try Princess Pinky Girl’s seven-can chicken taco soup. You’re making use of canned chicken, broth, beans, tomatoes, and enchilada sauce to create a very easy and flavorful soup. You can keep it that simple or jazz it up with all your favorite taco toppings.

Easy Lasagna Soup

All The Healthy Things

Making the fillings and assembling a lasagna is a labor of love, and one I’m just simply not up for most nights. An easy lasagna soup like All The Healthy Things’ recipe, however — now that I can do. You’ll need some crushed and fire-roasted canned tomatoes to make a flavorful broth for those cheesy dollops to melt into (yum).

Creamy Saucy Chipotle Chicken

Averie Cooks

Another gem of a recipe from Averie Cooks that only takes 35 minutes: creamy sauce chipotle chicken. You’ll never eat more flavorful boneless, skinless chicken thighs in your life, and they’re so good served over rice or in tortillas.

Ravioli & Italian Sausage Skillet

Damn Delicious

Sometimes you just need a cheesy comfort meal quickly, and Damn Delicious’ ravioli and Italian sausage skillet can give it to you in just 30 minutes. This meal is so easy and tasty we promise you’ll return to it again and again.

Crockpot Chili

Princess Pinky Girl

The dish I keep canned tomatoes around for is chili, and Princess Pinky Girl’s slow-cooker version is perfect for those days you can’t be bothered to stand over a stock pot at the stove. Most of your ingredients are inexpensive canned goods here, but don’t skip that little bit of chocolate (yes, seriously).

Creamy Tomato Soup With Cheesy Croutons

Jessica in the Kitchen

Jessica in the Kitchen’s vegan creamy tomato soup is the perfect use of fresh or canned tomatoes, or some combination of the two — you’ll need 56 ounces of the things. The end result is a savory but slightly sweet classic tomato soup, with delicious homemade croutons bobbing around on top.

Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Damn Delicioius

Who knew you could enjoy chicken parm without standing over a skillet? Damn Delicious’ chicken parmesan pasta is the way. Her recipe makes getting all the flavors of the classic dish you want but way easier, and with the pasta well incorporated into the dish (I have when the sauce and chicken don’t want to marry with the noodles...).

Lentil Bolognese

Budget Bytes

Lentils are so affordable and high in both protein and fiber. And you want to use this under-hyped superfood, along with a can of crushed tomatoes, to make a vegan bolognese sauce courtesy of Budget Bytes’ recipe. It only takes about 10 minutes of prep before a 45-minute simmer to perfection.

Who knew canned tomatoes could do so much?

]]><![CDATA[Why Do Dog Farts Smell So Bad? A Vet Answers This Pressing Question]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/why-do-dog-farts-smell-so-badhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/why-do-dog-farts-smell-so-badThu, 09 Jul 2026 18:03:18 GMT
Enrique Díaz / 7cero/Moment/Getty Images

Every time my nearly 100-pound dog lets one rip next to me on the couch, I immediately think of the facehuggers from Alien. Her farts are so thick they’re solid, and I swear they attach to my nose and force themselves inside. I genuinely believe they could peel the paint off the walls in a high enough concentration. So if you’ve ever wondered, “why do dog farts smell so bad?”, no, you’re not alone. I have definitely Googled the same thing, wondering if the stench emanating from my dog warranted a visit to her veterinarian. So, I asked a vet expert why dog farts smell like toxic waste, and if there’s anything in our pups’ routines we can change to support their gut health (and reduce the eau de butt).

Why do dog farts smell so bad?

Seriously, what gives?

“Some dog farts can clear a room. The reason is multifactorial,” says Dr. Carly Fox, senior veterinarian in the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center’s Emergency & Critical Care Service. “Some dogs swallow excessive air when eating, which can contribute to excess GI gas. This gas mixes with their ingesta, which leads to the smell.” (Ingesta is the medical term for stomach contents.)

Naturally, this means your dog’s diet plays a major role in how often they pass gas and how stinky it gets. Diets high in soybeans, fat, or fiber can lead to excessive gas production, Fox explains, and feeding them table scraps — especially dairy, since dogs are lactose intolerant — doesn’t help either. Also, brachycephalic breeds like bulldogs and pugs tend to take in more air while eating, and can therefore be a little more gaseous.

“If your dog has underlying GI disease, this can also lead to excessively odorous farts,” she says.

“Some dogs simply have smellier gas than others, so a particularly foul fart isn’t automatically a cause for concern. That said, if the odor is new, persistent, or comes with other digestive symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting, it could point to a food intolerance, parasites, or another gastrointestinal issue that’s worth discussing with your veterinarian,” agrees Dr. Lori Ross, emergency veterinarian and medical director of Emergency Veterinary Care Centers.

How often should dogs pass gas?

The occasional dog farts are a normal part of living with your furry friend, and the fact that they stink is to be expected, both vets say. There’s no right or wrong number, really. But it’s worth taking your dog in for a checkup if you’ve noticed their gas has gotten worse in some way, especially if they’re having new GI symptoms as well.

“If their farting is excessively odorous and accompanied by other clinical signs like diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, or loss of appetite, a visit to the vet is absolutely warranted,” Fox explains.

Lethargy and abdominal pain or swelling are also major red flags, Ross says. “If you notice a distended abdomen or your dog is trying to vomit but nothing is coming up, seek emergency veterinary care immediately, as those can be signs of bloat, which is a life-threatening emergency.”

Some of the most common GI issues in pets include food intolerances or allergies, eating something they shouldn’t have (like garbage), stress or anxiety, parasites, and infections, according to the Pet Resource Center of Kansas City. Yes, chronic gas could also point to an underlying condition, but don’t panic — the fix could be as simple as feeding them a different kind of kibble.

Can I reduce my dog’s gas?

If your pup’s rump is disturbing the peace in your home, there are some simple things you can do to help alleviate their gas.

“To reduce gas, you can try using a slow feeder to reduce the amount of air ingested when eating,” Fox says. If you work from home, she adds that feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help too. Walks and exercise will help them reduce the gas in their system as well — and they’ll work those farts out outside for a change.

“You can also consider adding a probiotic to their diet; I recommend Proviable over the counter. If their gas is truly unbearable, you can speak with your veterinarian about switching their diet. When switching, make sure to transition slowly over about a week to decrease the chance of GI upset,” says Fox.

“Chronic gas isn’t something pets just have to live with; it often has an underlying cause that your veterinarian can help identify and manage,” says Ross. “If your dog has chronic gas, it’s worth talking with your veterinarian before changing their diet or trying supplements. There are prescription probiotics that may help with excess and smelly gas. It is also recommended to walk your dog within 30 minutes of meals to encourage defecation and elimination of intestinal gas.”

So yes, dog farts are rancid, and that’s normal to an extent. But if you’re worried about your dog or just want to see how you can improve the situation, it’s worth a conversation with your vet.

]]><![CDATA[What Is A "Silent Divorce"? Experts Explain Why Couples Stay Married Anyway]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/silent-divorce-why-couples-stay-marriedhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/silent-divorce-why-couples-stay-marriedWed, 08 Jul 2026 20:58:36 GMT
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In my social circle, I know at least three women who are currently in a very specific kind of marriage. It looks OK from the outside: they post pictures of themselves as a family on Facebook, and they sit in the bleachers together at kids’ ballgames. But when these women describe what their relationships really look like from the inside, an entirely different picture emerges.

What you see are two people who may be sitting on the same couch, but they’re very much… separate. They scroll on their phones and speak to each other in clipped sentences that mostly concern the kids or household responsibilities. Some of them argue frequently. Others say they’re past the point of even putting energy into arguing and just kind of do their own thing to keep the peace.

Welcome to what’s been dubbed the “silent divorce”: a marriage that, for all intents and purposes, has ended, and yet no one has filed anything, moved anywhere, or even said it out loud.

What a silent divorce actually is (and isn't)

Anyone who has been married for a while will tell you that every marriage, even the healthiest ones, has its seasons. You have your hot-and-heavy newlywed years, the roommate years that so often accompany early parenthood, and the figuring out what your relationship looks like once your nest is empty again.

None of that is this.

The difference, say experts, isn’t the absence of sex or even the presence of fighting; it’s when a relationship reaches a point where no one seems to be reaching anymore. “A rough patch has friction in it,” explains Amy Lewis Bear, a licensed professional counselor and author of When Loving You Means Losing Me. “People are arguing, negotiating, hurt, and as uncomfortable as that is, it means they're still reaching for each other, even in an angry way.”

So, while friction might sound like a bad thing, it’s actually a good sign in this context. When the friction stops in a relationship, when both people quit expecting things to get better and no longer push to get there, that opens the door for a silent divorce.

Bear shared that she uses a deceptively simple diagnostic with her clients to see where they’re at in terms of emotional distance: “How do you say goodnight to each other?” When a couple starts saying goodnight to a hallway or a door (or not at all) instead of to each other, it says a lot about the state of the marriage.

You might assume here that a sexless marriage must automatically be a silent one as well, but that’s not necessarily true. “Couples can have little or no sexual intimacy and still feel deeply supported, valued, and emotionally close,” says Kimberly Miller, who holds a triple crown of credentials as a divorce attorney, licensed marriage and family therapist, and certified financial planner. “In a silent divorce, both emotional and physical intimacy often fade, and neither partner is actively working to reconnect.”

Is this actually on the rise?

Is silent divorce genuinely on the rise among millennials and Gen X, or are our algorithms just serving us more content that makes it seem that way? The experts address this with refreshing honesty: Nobody really knows for sure! Silent divorces don’t exactly show up in divorce statistics; that’s kind of their whole thing.

“Silent divorce does seem to be more common, although it's difficult to know whether it's happening more often or whether people simply have more language to describe it,” Miller says. The pandemic certainly seemed to create conditions that accelerated it: more stress, more caregiving, more financial pressure, more burnout. But also, our generation expects more from marriage than our parents did.

Bear sees the generational setup clearly in her practice. Gen X is “holding up the middle of the sandwich — aging parents on one side, kids on the other,” often with a first divorce already behind them and a deep fear of repeating it. Millennials watched their parents split up close and, she says, many “walked away from that with the belief that divorce itself is the trauma.”

Staying becomes the responsible-feeling choice, even when what you're staying in stopped being a marriage years ago.

The unfortunate math of financial separation

Every expert seemed to pick at a central thread: So very often, it’s not love that motivates a woman to stay; it’s the complexity of financial stability (or destabilization).

“By the time many people reach out to me, the emotional marriage ended long ago, but the financial barriers to leaving can feel impossible to overcome,” says Melissa Murphy Pavone, a certified financial planner and certified divorce financial analyst who founded Mindful Divorce Partners. The questions she hears from women, particularly Gen X and millennial women, are brutally practical: Can I afford to leave? Am I going to lose my health insurance? Will I have enough savings to retire?

Pavone says that pondering these things can be enough to keep someone in a marriage long after its emotional core has crumbled. She's also careful to say there's no one right answer to any of these questions. But she does caution anyone coasting in a functional-roommate arrangement not to go financially dark. When one spouse handles all the money and the other has no visibility into the assets, debts, and retirement accounts, that opacity can become a serious problem if the marriage eventually does end on paper.

Her message, which is a useful reminder for us all: “Financial clarity doesn't mean you're committing to divorce. It simply means you're educating yourself.”

What it costs you, even when it costs nothing

Of course, there has to be an emotional toll you pay when you stay in a marriage like this, right? The experts are in agreement — yes, and it materializes in different ways.

For starters, it can be incredibly lonely. “Nothing has technically ended, so there's no permission to mourn, and no one bringing you a casserole,” Bear says. She calls it grief with nowhere to go, sharing that clients in empty marriages often tell her they feel invisible in their own homes.

And while it’s mentally much more palatable to tell yourself that staying together is better for the kids or that the kids don’t notice, well, they notice. “Kids read the emotional temperature, not just behavior,” Bear says. “They don't need a raised voice to know something's missing.”

Plus, what they absorb then becomes their blueprint for relationships.

So... can you come back from this?

The experts agree that, yes, some silent divorce marriages can turn things around. And, surprisingly, it’s usually the ones with an undercurrent of frustration.

“Resentment, which sounds strange, means the relationship still matters enough to be angry about,” Bear says. Even annoyed curiosity counts here, i.e., “Why do you always do that?!” When you dig beneath the surface of something like that, you usually find that the person asking still wants to understand the other person. That’s important.

It’s the absence of those strong feelings that generally signals a marriage is truly over. When the thought of the marriage ending brings relief instead of sadness, “that usually means the emotional divorce already happened a while ago. The legal one is just catching up.”

Which brings us to what might be the central question embedded in this whole phenomenon: not should we stay together, but when you imagine it ending, what do you feel? If the answer is grief, there may still be a marriage in there worth fighting for. If the answer is relief, well. You already know.

]]><![CDATA[These Medications Can Make You More Sensitive To Heat]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/medications-that-make-you-sensitive-to-heathttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/medications-that-make-you-sensitive-to-heatWed, 08 Jul 2026 19:24:58 GMT
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Listen, when it’s the middle of summer and the heat index is climbing into the triple digits, even those of us who typically run cold are going to break a sweat. But when you start sweating way more than usual, feel short of breath or lightheaded, become nauseous, or get a headache, it’s a sign that the heat is too much for your body. If this happens to you in temperatures you used to be able to tolerate just fine, it could be that new prescription you started — turns out, there are a lot of medications that make you sensitive to heat.

It can be hard to tell exactly why your body is reacting more strongly to the heat than it used to. Changes to the brain during perimenopause can cause your body to feel hotter and sweat more, and certain underlying conditions — think thyroid dysfunction or wonky blood sugar levels — can also increase your perspiration. But certainly if you’ve added a new medication into your care plan and this is the first summer you find yourself struggling with the rising temperatures, it’s worth asking if your prescription might be the cause.

Signs Of Overheating & Heat-Related Illness

The line between feeling really hot and actually overheating is thin, and you’ll want to know the signs you’re crossing it before it happens. If you start to feel dizzy, short of breath, weak, or nauseous, that’s a red flag that you’re overheating, according to the CDC. Muscle cramps, headaches, and unusually heavy sweating are also bad signs.

The health organization recommends all the advice you’d imagine: stay hydrated (well enough that your urine is clear or light yellow) and take frequent breaks in the air conditioning. If you must be outdoors, stay in the shade as much as possible and try to do those activities in the mornings or evenings when the temperatures are at their lowest. And don’t forget to pack things like handheld fans and cooling towels if you know you’ll be out and about in a place that’s hot or low on shade.

Medications That Can Make You Sensitive To Heat

Here are all the types of medication that can make you more sensitive to heat, according to Daphne Berryhill, RPh, a registered pharmacist and writer for Those Nerdy Girls, an evidence-based health publication created by scientists and medical experts:

  • Antidepressants, including both SSRIs and SNRIs
  • Beta blockers
  • Blood pressure medications, like ACE inhibitors and ARBs
  • Medications that cause fluid loss, like diuretics, laxatives, and certain diabetes medications
  • Medications block acetylcholine, like certain antihistamines, antipsychotics, and bladder control medications
  • Stimulants like ADHD medications or pseudoephedrine
  • Thyroid replacement medications

The way these medications help our bodies cope with various health conditions — for example, by narrowing your blood vessels, slowing your heart rate, or encouraging fluid loss — can negatively affect the way our systems respond to heat, Berryhill explains. It’s important to know how the prescriptions you take may impact your body’s ability to regulate its temperature, especially on steamy summer afternoons when the temperature is high.

There are other risk factors that may make you more susceptible to overheating, like having a heart condition or becoming pregnant. Babies, kids, and people over 65 are also more vulnerable to the effects of extreme temperatures. Talk to your doctor about whether your health conditions or the medications you take to treat them might put you in this club.

So listen, if you have to put on a movie marathon and pass out the tablets because you and the kids are stuck inside during a particularly hot week, so be it. Better safe than dizzy and dehydrated.

]]><![CDATA[Who TF Is Responsible For Designing New Playgrounds & Why Is It Never A Parent?]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/why-dont-playgrounds-have-shadehttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/why-dont-playgrounds-have-shadeWed, 08 Jul 2026 19:14:19 GMT
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Have you ever taken your child to a playground only to wonder how the absolute death trap of a play structure in front of you got approved by the city? Random openings with 10-foot drops into the mulch below, metal slides in direct sun, and oh goodie, there’s no fence between it and the parking lot. It all makes it really hard to actually sit down and relax while the kids play. If it feels like the people who design playgrounds despise families, well, you’re not alone in that.

“WHY don’t more playgrounds have shade?” begins one such parent’s post on r/Mommit. “My city has been weighing getting rid of some playgrounds lately because they aren't used much in the summer. Yeah, they aren't being used in the summer because you can fry an egg on the slide! Just get some damn sunshades or an overhead cover or at least plant some trees closer to the equipment, something! I just don't understand why shade isn't a priority at all for playgrounds full of metal equipment.”

“I say this all the time. A new park/splash pad was built around my house. I looked up how much it cost…. Over $2 million. They couldn’t spend any of that on any shade?” one commenter replied.

“Ugh peeve of mine!!” wrote another. “Had to fundraise to put up a covering for part of the play area at our elementary school because they didn’t budget for that in the new school’s building! In Florida!!!”

On a similar post titled “Can we finally get properly shaded playgrounds?”, another parent commented that yes, even in extremely hot states, shade seems to be an afterthought in playground designers’ minds.

“We’re in Tucson and I bitch about this all the time, the freaking slides are never in the shades that are at some of the parks!! It’s hotter than Satan’s butthole almost year-round, I don’t get it.”

Of course, a lack of shade is far from the only design fluke parents have to deal with at public playgrounds. In fact, some new ones are apparently being built in ways that very obviously obscure caregivers’ ability to even see where their children are.

“There’s a new playground that opened up last year and they put three huge artificial hills right smack dab in the middle of the playground. So from one side of them, I can’t see my kids on the other side and vice versa,” one parent wrote. Cue a bunch of parents sitting on top of the hill glancing nervously around like meerkats, probably.

Then of course there are the characteristic random openings in the sides of play structures, which make zero sense given they’re always in the part of the jungle gym that’s two stories above the ground. If Reddit is to be believed, kids really do fall out of them — that’s not just an intrusive thought we all have. Then there’s the new trend of building playgrounds with metal slides. Not only do they heat up like a skillet in the sun, but they’re surprisingly slick, enough so that they’ve literally become a meme.

As one mom pointed out, a startling number of playgrounds also have no fencing, or at least not any legitimate barriers meant to actually contain human children. “As a parent of a runner I’d like to request fencing. Not like a wooden post and a couple planks or 3 feet of grass before a parking lot (where no one drives the speed limit anyway). Like actually fenced in with some kind of latch. What the heck do city planners have against playground families?”

But deep within the comments, one mom’s call to action stands out:

“In my area, most public playgrounds have a public comment period during the design phase. If your park district or municipality has an email list, join it. Specifically check if there is an email list for their planning division. I was able to provide comment on a recent playground renovation and was thrilled that they incorporated one of my requests into the final design.”

So yes, it seems that nationwide, we are all struggling with some aspect of our local playgrounds being built without really taking family’s ease, comfort, and safety into mind — which, when you’re literally building a place explicitly for families, is pretty disheartening. However, when we reach out to our local officials about our concerns during planning (and even afterward!), we may sometimes be surprised by how eager they are to listen. Perhaps it’s time for me to email my city’s parks department about the broken latch on our nearest playground’s gate...

Now, who do we have to call to get a coffee shop or a wine bar built alongside the playground?

]]><![CDATA[I'm Recreating A ‘90s Summer All For Myself]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/im-recreating-a-90s-summer-all-for-myselfhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/im-recreating-a-90s-summer-all-for-myselfWed, 08 Jul 2026 13:01:06 GMT
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I’ve always been pretty nostalgic, but let’s be real: ‘90s summers were the bomb and we all miss them. The days of lying out in my fluorescent pink bathing suit with my clear Pepsi and Sinead O’Connor in the background were the absolute best. And not just because I was a teenager without any adult problems. It was because I wasn’t taking in so much information; scrolling wasn’t a thing and we were all a lot less anxious. We saw each other in person and connected. And the simplest things were appreciated and enjoyed.

I long for those days. Hell, my kids long for those days and they weren’t even alive. I’ve loved sharing pieces of that carefree childhood with them over the years. But now that they’re older and busy making summer plans, I'm bringing back a ‘90s summer for myself.

Here’s what that looks like for me:

I’m buying magazines. I used to love pouring through catalogues and magazines. There’s something about the scent of paper mixed with perfume samples that takes me right back to my peach-colored bedroom. This is where I got my outfit inspiration and relationship advice. And I loved to bring a pile of magazines on a road trip or to the beach. Thumbing through these calms my nervous system, as opposed to amping it up which is what happens to me these days when I scroll. I actually can’t believe the difference in my attention either.

I’ve been taking long walks without my phone. No podcast or music in my ears and absolutely no notifications buzzing and beeping. Doing this has made me really pay attention to nature again. I’m seeing wildflowers and birds I haven’t noticed in years because I’m present. The other day as I was walking along, I saw a mossy spot under a tree which was surrounded by bushes. As a kid, I would have grabbed a bunch of books and a quilt and spent the afternoon there. Going for strolls in my neighborhood without distractions has made me think about things I haven’t thought about in so long because my mind is free. This has felt so nourishing.

I’ve also been walking around the air-conditioned mall with a big-ass soda. This is something my sisters and I used to do on a hot afternoon. No plan, not much money to buy anything, just quality time together, checking out stores and wondering if we were going to run into anyone we knew. Sure online shopping is convenient, but going into stores and noticing what catches my eye has transported me back to a time when shopping was an experience, not just a transaction.

I’m writing actual notes. If my kids are home, I leave them notes when I run out for a bit, want to tell them that I love them, or leave them a reminder. No more texting, notes are where it’s at.

I’m going to the library and getting what catches my eye. No BookTok, no Goodreads. Just wandering the stacks, judging books by their covers like we’re not supposed to do, and taking home whatever intrigues me.

Creating a ‘90s summer for myself now that my kids aren't around as much has made me realize what’s important and what actually makes me happy. I feel more like myself than I have in a long time. I’m at peace, and a lot of amazing memories have resurfaced. The simple things I used to love bring me more joy than ever. It turns out I wasn’t just missing the ‘90s, I was missing a version of myself that I’ve finally found again.

Katie lives in Maine with her three kids, two ducks, and a goldendoodle. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, at the gym, redecorating her home, or spending too much money online.

]]><![CDATA[Universal's Epic Universe Rides: Height Requirements & Express Pass Guide]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/universal-epic-universe-rideshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/universal-epic-universe-ridesTue, 07 Jul 2026 21:26:58 GMT
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ICYMI, Epic Universe has been open for over a year now, and it’s safe to say Universal’s new park is already a hit. Spanning five lands — Celestial Park, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic, and Super Nintendo World — it adds 11 super-fun and immersive rides to Universal Orlando’s lineup. But if you’re planning a trip to Epic, especially if you’re trying to squeeze in time at the other parks, logistics matter. Which Epic rides can your 42-inch kid actually get on? Where does Express Pass work? And what should motion-sensitive riders skip?

For context, Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure have a combined 31 rides: 14 at Universal Studios Florida (around 108 acres) and 17 at Universal Islands of Adventure (around 110 acres). At 110 acres and 11 rides, Epic feels like a third arm of Universal’s existing parks, in both size and ride count. However, trust me when I say it also feels entirely different from any theme park you’ve ever been to.

This guide covers all of that and more: height requirements, intensity levels, and a few other tidbits to keep in mind. So, here’s what you should know ahead of your own trip to this — gotta say it — truly *epic* (¯\_(ツ)_/¯) theme park. Oh, and if you’re wondering which rides are actually worth the longest waits, check out our ranking of the best Epic Universe rides.

One Note on Express Passes Before We Dive In

When Epic Universe opened back in May 2025, three rides were noticeably not available as Express Pass options. Two of them — Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry and Mine-Cart Madness — have since been added, leaving Dragon Racer’s Rally as the lone holdout.

Epic also recently introduced an exciting new addition to the Express Pass family: Express Pass Now, which lets you purchase a one-time Express Pass for select attractions for $25. Express Pass Now is only available through your Universal Orlando Resort app once you’re in the park on the day of your visit. It’s also worth pointing out that it’s subject to availability, so it opens only when certain attractions have capacity.

Epic Universe Ride Info

Stardust Racers (in Celestial Park)

Julie Sprankles/Scary Mommy; Universal
  • Height requirement: 48" minimum
  • Express pass: yes

On this massive dual-launch coaster, riders “board a comet and rocket to the furthest reaches of the stars” — aka up to 133 feet high at speeds up to 62 miles per hour on a track stretching 5000 feet. I’m a coasterhead, and I would definitely say this is one enthusiasts will be raving about. While not quite as fast as Universal Islands of Adventure’s Velocicoaster, which reaches speeds up to 70 miles per hour, it’s pretty close. Coupled with the inverted crisscross action and the second coaster blazing all around you, it boggles the brain a bit. According to one guide in the park, the two tracks of this coaster represent different intensity levels (like Mission Space at Disney’s Epcot). I went on the yellow side, which I believe is considered the less intense side... and it was pretty intense!

A few other fun facts: The Stardust Racers have no external track lighting, meaning the ride vehicles are the only element illuminated at night. That makes them appear as actual comets shooting across the night sky in Celestial Park. And be on the lookout for the “flux capacitor” on the back of the coasters — it’s a little Back to the Future Easter egg.

Dragon Racers Rally (in Isle of Berk)

  • Height requirement: 48" minimum
  • Express pass: No, this is currently the only ride at Epic not included in the Express Pass.

Fans of How to Train Your Dragon know that dragon racing is a celebrated pastime on the Isle of Berk. On this fun aerial ride, you get to become a new Viking and practice your own aerobatic dragon-riding maneuvers. Each wing has a handle, so you can control them individually (you’re essentially able to flap the wings) and adjust the intensity of your ride accordingly. It is possible to do a barrel roll, although only one person in our group achieved it. However, one of the ride’s team members told us his record is five!

The intel I received is that it’s much easier to flip if you’re in a glider at the front or the back of the ride; the gliders in the middle are best for riders who just want to cruise and enjoy the scenery. And since you reach heights of up to 67 feet, you can see a lot.

Fyre Drill (in Isle of Berk)

Julie Sprankles/Scary Mommy; Universal Orlando
  • Height requirement: no minimum height, but children under 48” must be accompanied by a supervising companion
  • Express pass: yes

On Epic Universe’s only water ride, Viking twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut have transformed Berk’s Fyre Skööl into a sopping-wet boat battle. After all, there are fire-breathing dragons all around; you need to be ready to extinguish whatever comes your way. For this interactive experience, you’ll board a ship, take your seat, and grab your water-blasting cannon handle. There are three types of targets: red/flames, orange and green, and blue. Hitting the first scores you points, hitting the second shoots water at the opposing boat, and hitting blue shoots water back at you. Whichever boat accrues the most points gets bragging rights and becomes a full-fledged Viking firefighter crew.

Pro tip: The cannons shoot over 28 feet into the air. So, if you’re feeling a little impish, you can shoot right over the targets to land direct hits on the opposing boat’s Vikings. You will get soaked either way, but on a hot day, that will catapult this ride to the top of your must-do list.

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders (in Isle of Berk)

Universal Orlando
  • Height requirement: 40” minimum, and children under 48” must be accompanied by a supervising companion
  • Express pass: yes

This super fun coaster is Hiccup’s latest contraption. You see, he’s trying to manufacture a winged flying machine to launch Dragon Riders into the air sans dragons. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this one, but it ended up being one of my favorites. First of all, it’s faster and swoopier than you might expect. Plus, it takes you above and around the Isle of Berk, dipping over the lagoon (the best!) and more. You also get to see an animatronic Hiccup and Toothless, and there’s truly never a bad time for a Toothless cameo.

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry (in Ministry of Magic)

Julie Sprankles/Scary Mommy; Universal Orlando
Julie Sprankles/Scary Mommy; Universal Orlando
  • Height requirement: 40” minimum
  • Express pass: yes, added to the lineup in Aug. 2025

I’m going to level with you here: I don’t even know how to adequately describe this ride. The scale of it is just unlike anything I’ve been on before. For hardcore Potterheads, this will be the ride that stays with you long after you’ve disembarked. The gist? Dolores Umbridge is about to stand trial, so you must travel by Métro-Floo from Paris to the British Ministry of Magic™ to meet up with Harry, Ron, and Hermione in anticipation. But as you journey deep into the Ministry’s many departments, you encounter a few... uninvited guests.

This dark indoor ride uses cutting-edge technology that allows the ride vehicle to be truly omnidirectional, moving up and down, forward and backward. I’m sure the “lift” you’re seated in doesn’t actually move that much, but it truly felt like we were rising and dropping great heights and zipping this way and that rather quickly. Although the ride will likely have staggering wait times when the park opens, fans won’t even mind because the queue is mind-blowing. You’ll want to be in line long enough to soak it all in, from the enormous atrium with tens of thousands of dark green tiles to Umbridge’s office (complete with moving cat plates) and beyond.

The ride itself also marks the first time Universal has created an original Harry Potter-themed story for a ride, making it feel even more special.

Curse of the Werewolf (in Dark Universe)

Universal Orlando
  • Height requirement: 40” minimum
  • Express pass: yes

Maleva, the all-knowing leader of the Guild of Mystics, welcomes you to a secluded wagon camp in Darkmoor’s woods for this spinning family coaster. But you’ll soon discover that you definitely aren’t alone: glowing eyes, gnashing teeth, and haunted howls hint at the menacing predators ready to hunt you down.

This is another ride that you might write off as a “kid” coaster, but that would be a mistake; it really is fun for the whole family, with the possible exception of anyone who gets spinning sickness. It’s fast (clocking in at 37 miles per hour), and it goes forward and backward on the track while you spin around, making it wildly entertaining in its unpredictability.

Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment (in Dark Universe)

Julie Sprankles/Scary Mommy; Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando
  • Height requirement: 40” minimum
  • Express pass: yes

This was one of the rides I was most excited to experience, and it did not disappoint. Again, it’s one where you can’t help but marvel over how big and sophisticated and cool it is. The backstory here is that Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, in continuing the misguided work of her ancestors, has created a laboratory beneath the Frankenstein family estate to experiment with controlling monsters. But things go horribly awry beneath the towering manor when Dracula leads a monster revolt.

If you’re a horror fan, you’ll completely nerd out over seeing so many iconic monsters from classic Universal Pictures films: Dracula and Frankenstein’s Monster (who’s kinda hot, FWIW), obviously, along with the Wolf Man, the Mummy, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, and more. From the crackle of electric ropes as you board the ride to the catacomb walls comprised of skulls, then onward as you journey past all of the animatronic monsters, it just feels like both a ride and a movie in one.

It operates using a robocoaster arm similar to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, only next-gen, so you can expect similar vibes with less of the wooziness many people get from Forbidden Journey’s use of screens. The ride itself didn’t feel terribly scary (it’s not super fast and is a little jerky but nothing too intense), but I’d still say it’s for more mature riders. “Creepy” kids who gravitate toward horror will dig it, but the dark vibes would likely scare other young riders.

Mine-Cart Madness (in Super Nintendo World)

  • Height requirement: 40” minimum, and children under 48” must be accompanied by a supervising companion
  • Express pass: yes, added to the lineup in Aug. 2025

How do I love this ride, let me count the ways! Your goal here is to help Donkey Kong protect the Golden Banana, which means you must board your mine cart and race through the majestic Golden Temple. If you are a fan of Donkey Kong video games, especially the OG ones, you will LOVE this ride. The unique track system literally makes it seem as though your cart leaps over gaps and switches tracks throughout the ride, making you feel like you really are inside of the game. I was with a group of all adults, but I can’t wait to see my kids’ reaction to “jumping the track” in this one.

My only word of warning here is that the ride is meant to feel like you are in a mine cart, so it jerks and jostles you. If anyone in your party is sensitive to that, they might want to sit it out or be prepared to tough it out.

Yoshi’s Adventure (in Super Nintendo World)

Julie Sprankles/Scary Mommy; Universal Orlando
Julie Sprankles/Scary Mommy; Universal Orlando
  • Height requirement: 34” minimum, and children under 48” must be accompanied by a supervising companion
  • Express pass: yes

Of all the rides I rode, I would say this is the most family-friendly. In the Universal system, it’s similar to the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride. If you’re more familiar with Disney, think People Mover. In the slow-moving experience, you take a ride on a Yoshi to search for glowing eggs. When you see one, you press the corresponding egg on your Yoshi car, with the goal of “collecting” them all.

Will it appeal mostly to the little littles? Yes. Can big kids and grown-ups enjoy it, too? Absolutely. It includes a lot of classic characters: Kamek, Baby Mario, Baby Peach, Pokey, Paratroopa, and more. It’s indoor and outdoor, each offering benefits. When you’re indoors, you get a reprieve from the hot Florida sun. When you’re outdoors, you get to see the true breadth of the Mushroom Kingdom.

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge (in Super Nintendo World)

Universal Orlando
  • Height requirement: 40” minimum, and children under 48” must be accompanied by a supervising companion
  • Express pass: yes

No real surprises here: this ride is a blast. Once in your kart, you’ll put on special goggles (you will look hilarious, yes) that transport you into an augmented reality world where you’ll collect coins and throw shells at your enemies in an attempt to beat Team Bowser. Between the AR, projection mapping, and 3D sets, it doesn’t get much more immersive. It basically takes you inside Mario Kart, and as a Mario Kart fan, I felt like I’d died and gone to that great big gaming system in the sky.

While this ride also exists at Universal parks in Hollywood and Japan, it has multiple outcomes so that you can get different experiences on different rides. Just remember: Aim with your head!

Constellation Carousel (in Celestial Park)

Universal Orlando
  • Height requirement: no minimum height, but children under 48” must be accompanied by a supervising companion
  • Express pass: yes

As the name suggests, it’s a carousel inspired by constellations in the sky. So, you get to hop aboard celestial creatures for what seems like a one-of-a-kind merry-go-round; each carriage turns 360 degrees while lifting riders up to six feet in the air. It’s really beautiful, and it gets bonus points for being one of the few shady spots in the park.

Other Important Stuff to Know

I found the rides to be pretty size-inclusive for both taller and larger-bodied guests. Some rides are definitely more snug by design (coasters like Hiccup’s Wing Gliders and Stardust Racers are understandably tight to keep you safe and in place), so that’s something to consider if you get claustrophobic. The rides have tester seats to see how comfortable you feel before getting in line.

And if you’re traveling with children who aren’t old enough or tall enough for some of the attractions but other people in your group would like to ride, I found the family rooms/child swap areas to be pretty fantastic: large with lots of seating and ice-cold A/C.

]]><![CDATA[Why Do I Sweat So Much Now? Experts Explain Perimenopause Sweating & Other Causes]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/why-do-i-sweat-so-much-now-perimenopausehttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/why-do-i-sweat-so-much-now-perimenopauseTue, 07 Jul 2026 20:43:45 GMT
Tom Werner/Getty Images

I’d like to think I’ve always been a “normal” amount of sweaty. On any given warm day, I might have glistened politely. Maybe I’d bead up or get extra dewy during yoga, with noticeable perspiration only making a cameo during strenuous activity like, you know, speed-walking around Disney World in the muggy Florida heat.

Then I hit midlife. Aka my Sweaty Betty era. If I'm outside and it’s warmer than 70 degrees, you can bet I’m sweating buckets. It’s like every pore in my body has decided to conspire against me and open up fully at the mere thought of a temperature uptick.

And so, one day, standing in front of my open freezer door whilst willing my body to chill TF out, I wondered, Why do I sweat so much now?

Not surprisingly, I'm not alone in this frustration. “If you've suddenly become the person who needs to pack an extra shirt for a walk around the block or finds yourself sweating through workouts that never used to faze you, you're not imagining it," says Dr. Marisa Ponzo, a double board-certified medical dermatologist at North York Dermatology Clinic. "One of the most common questions I hear from women in their 40s and 50s is, 'Why am I sweating like this all of a sudden?'"

If you’re thinking it could have something to do with perimenopause, you’re on the right track. However (and this is important), that’s not the only answer. Here’s what the experts say you should know about excessive sweating in midlife.

Your brain’s “thermostat” could be to blame.

Do you want to hear something wild? Perimenopause doesn’t actually make your body hotter. This was mind-blowing to me, because... how does that make sense?! To put it in plain terms, perimenopause is basically making your brain worse at reading the room.

"A common misconception is that menopause makes women 'run hotter,'" explains Dr. Jumana Al-Deek, a board-certified family physician specializing in menopause and author of The Menopause Weight Loss Trap. "In reality, average core body temperature often decreases slightly after menopause. The problem is not excess heat production; it is that the brain's thermostat becomes overly sensitive."

Not to get too bogged down in the science of it all, but that thermostat lives in your hypothalamus — and it’s heavily influenced by estrogen. So, when estrogen starts fluctuating in perimenopause (and, h’oh boy, fluctuate it does), your hypothalamus gets twitchy. Normally, your body temp can drift a bit before any cooling systems “kick on,” which doctors call your thermoneutral zone. In perimenopause, though, that zone narrows dramatically.

"As a result, a very small rise in body temperature can trigger sweating," Al-Deek says. Suddenly, “walking outside on an 80°F day may now produce noticeable sweating, mild household chores may leave clothing damp, and exercise may trigger earlier and heavier sweating than before."

This little tidbit hit me the hardest. I’m always saying it feels like my body has trouble regulating its temperature lately; once I start sweating, it can’t figure out when to pump the brakes. Knowing this is a very specific way perimenopause could be affecting my brain is almost a relief. At least it helps me better understand what’s going on with my body!

How can I tell if it’s hormones… or something else?

There's truly no substitute for clinical expertise, and this is certainly a situation that proves it. Since midlife sweating can be caused by other issues worth ruling out, you'll want to loop in your doctor.

But generally speaking, context is your most reliable cue, says Dr. Alyssa Dweck, an OB-GYN and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. Hormonal sweating has a signature: "a sudden sensation of intense heat in the upper body, face, neck, and chest lasting one to five minutes," often with flushing, chills, clamminess, and sometimes heart palpitations." Women from their late 30s through 50s who are also noticing period changes tend to report these symptoms.

But sweating can come from other places, too: thyroid dysfunction, blood sugar issues, infections, and — less commonly, so don’t freak out — some cancers. Even certain medications, such as antidepressants, can cause increased sweating.

"The key is looking at the whole clinical picture and not just the sweat itself," Ponzo says.

So, when should you actually call your doctor?

Listen, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor whenever you notice any changes in your body. However, there are some sweat-adjacent symptoms that call for a more immediate evaluation. Per Dweck, see your doctor if profuse sweating is accompanied by:

  • Weight loss without trying or noticeable appetite changes
  • Persistent or reappearing fever or flu-like symptoms
  • Tremors
  • Enlarged lymph nodes
  • Diarrhea or heart palpitations that don't resolve

Also, please hear this: If you're dealing with any symptoms pronounced enough to interfere with your daily life or relationships — whether it's heavy menstrual bleeding or sleep disruption — that deserves your (and your doctor's) attention.

Is there something I can do to minimize or help with my super-sweating?

If you’re tired of hearing some variation of “you just have to get through it” regarding midlife symptoms, here’s a bit of good news: This is one issue that does have some solutions to make the whole thing more bearable.

Let's start with the low-lift stuff that you can easily accomplish at home. Al-Deek suggests cooling mattress pads, fans, and moisture-wicking sleepwear. Also? Figure out your triggers and steer clear of them. Alcohol and spicy food are two big offenders! Dweck adds that you might think of looking into cognitive behavioral therapy, which has real evidence behind it for vasomotor symptoms (the clinical term for hot flashes and night sweats).

If the lifestyle tweaks just aren't doing it for you, though, don't despair. You've got a few legit medical options:

  • Hormone therapy. "Hormone therapy is the gold standard for vasomotor symptoms during menopause and is often used during perimenopause as well," Dweck says. That means you may want to have a convo with your doctor about birth control pills, a hormonal IUD, or systemic estrogen therapy.
  • Non-hormonal meds. Al-Deek points to fezolinetant for menopause, the first non-hormonal drug designed specifically to treat hot flashes by targeting the brain pathway that causes them, plus options like oxybutynin and certain SSRIs/SNRIs.
  • Dermatologist-level sweat control. If the sweating itself is what frustrates you the most, Ponzo notes that prescription antiperspirants, oral medications, topical treatments, and even Botox injections "can dramatically reduce sweating and improve quality of life."

While there isn’t any one single treatment that’s going to solve excessive sweating in midlife, the big throughline here is that there’s nothing wrong with wanting one. You don’t have to feel weird or gross or embarrassed, and you definitely don’t have to “just deal” with being a perspiration queen.

"Don't normalize symptoms that are interfering with your life," Ponzo says. "If you're planning your wardrobe around sweat marks, avoiding social events because you're worried about perspiration, or feeling embarrassed by something that suddenly changed, bring it up with your doctor. Excessive sweating isn't just a cosmetic nuisance; it is an actual medical symptom, and in many cases, it's very treatable."

]]><![CDATA[40 Baby Names That Mean "Fire" For Your Little Stick Of Dynamite]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/pregnancy/baby-names-that-mean-firehttps://www.scarymommy.com/pregnancy/baby-names-that-mean-fireTue, 07 Jul 2026 20:07:45 GMT
DjelicS/E+/Getty Images

When naming your new baby, of course you want to pick something meaningful, something that will instill a certain virtue or value in your little one that will see them through life’s hardest challenges. Some families lean toward baby names that mean light to honor the bright spot they know their new baby will bring into their homes. Others lean into names with personal meanings, like monikers that mean “survivor.” And if you want to raise a little one who is strong-willed, passionate, and not afraid to go their own way, well, you need to consider baby names that mean “fire.”

There are baby names that mean "fire" across many cultures, including some inspired by deities and mythology. Here are a few of our favorites.

Brando

Like a brand, Brando is an Old Norse and Italian name meaning “sword” or “fiery touch.” It obviously brings iconic actor Marlon Brando to mind, making this a perfect name for film-buff parents to choose. That said, this name also has serious potential as a cool guy baby name that’ll fit right in alongside the Kais and Hendrixes of the world.

Brigid

Brigid is the name of the Irish goddess of both fire and poetry, and any parent who wants to raise a creative and passionate little girl will likely feel drawn to it. It’s very similar in sound to Brigette, but just know that name has a different (albeit still wonderful) meaning: “strength.”

Ignatius

Sorry, but Iggy as a nickname is too spunky and adorable to pass up. This Latin name means “fiery” or “ardent,” perfect for a baby you want to be intensely passionate about their life. Ignacio and Ignacia are also derived from this name, if you are searching for a beautiful Spanish name.

Shula

In Arabic, this soft-sounding baby girl name translates to “flame” or “bright,” though the Hebrew meaning is “peace.” It’s easy enough to pronounce correctly on the first try, but so incredibly unique here in the U.S. that there likely won’t be another Shula in your daughter’s class.

More Baby Names That Mean “Fire”

  • Agni: “fire”
  • Aidan: “little fire”
  • Argus: “shining”
  • Asher: “blessed” or “happy” (but the “ash” mention makes it fit)
  • Blaze: “a large, intense fire”
  • Brenda: “flaming sword”
  • Brent: “burnt land”
  • Cinder: a piece of ash
  • Cymbeline: “sun hound”
  • Egan: “fire” or “son of fire”
  • Eliane: “sun ray”
  • Elidi: “gift of the sun”
  • Ember: a small, glowing piece of wood or coal at the base of a fire
  • Etna: like the volcano
  • Flint: a stone commonly used to start a fire
  • Hagan: “little fire”
  • Hestia: the Greek goddess of the hearth
  • Hurik: “small fire” or “little light”
  • Idalia: “behold the sun”
  • Kalinda: “the sun”
  • Kenna: “born of fire”
  • Kenneth: “born of fire”
  • Kiran: “beam of light”
  • Nina: “fire” or “fiery”
  • Nuri: “my fire” or “my light”
  • Oya: a Yoruba wind goddess associated with lightning and fire
  • Phoenix: a mythical flaming bird that rises out of the ashes of its own destruction
  • Ravi: the Hindu god of the sun
  • Sam: “fire”
  • Seraphina: “fiery ones” or “burning”
  • Sirius: “scorching” or “burning”
  • Sorin: “sun”
  • Sua: “fire”
  • Tyson: “firebrand”
  • Uri: “my flame” or “my light”
  • Vulcan: the Roman god of fire and the forge

Does one of these names feel just right for your little flame?

]]><![CDATA[The Baby Registry Items Every Discerning Mom Will Love]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/the-baby-registry-items-every-discerning-mom-will-lovehttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/the-baby-registry-items-every-discerning-mom-will-loveTue, 07 Jul 2026 19:25:36 GMT
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Preparing for a baby is exciting. You get to pick (and debate) names, visualize a nursery aesthetic, and daydream endlessly about what this little person is going to be like.

It’s also, of course, overwhelming. Often, the bulk of that feeling comes from knowing that you’re going to need a lot of stuff. With all the available options out there, the decision fatigue is real. But you know what you want overall: high-quality, well-made products that will be right for the baby you’ve already fallen in love with.

As the #1 choice for parents-to-be, Pampers creates products with care and intention; each item is designed with the safety and health of your little one in mind, which is why 100% of their ingredients are tested and carefully selected. Pampers is your answer not just for diapers, but for other essentials, too, like premium wipes and commemorative milestone markers.

With those must-haves at the tip-top of the list, here are all of the A+ items that really deserve a spot on your registry. Oh, and congratulations! It’s going to be wonderful, wild — and life-changing in the very best way.

A Diaper That Sets A High Bar

When it comes to the gold standard of diapers, Pampers AMORE is it. They’re high-quality, high-performing, and tested for 1,000+ chemicals* — in fact, Pampers calls them their most absorbent diapers**. They’ve got an all-around blowout and leakguard barrier (trust us: this is crucial) and are soft and gentle on your baby’s skin.

*Among U.S. non-overnight taped diapers; excluding Super Economy Pack

**See pampers.com/en-us/product/Amore for more information

Gentle Wipes That Pass The Ingredient Test

Wipes are another item that you cannot have too many of. Pampers Aqua Wipes are made with a simple formula that’s fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, and they’ve got no alcohol, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, or dyes.

A Gift Set That Checks Practical & Sentimental Boxes

Any new mama will be both grateful and touched to receive this sweet set. It’s got newborn Pampers diapers, Pampers Sensitive Wipes, a onesie and hat to keep your brand new baby cozy as can be, plus milestone cards that will help them appreciate these precious early moments.

A Sound Machine That Fits The Aesthetic

When you’re struggling to get your baby to sleep, a sound machine just may save you. This top-of-the-line option lets you store light and sound routines so you can build your baby’s sleep schedule. It also comes with three months of Hatch+, which includes access to a sleep consultant chat and other helpful content. The fact that it fits perfectly with your chic, minimalist nursery decor doesn’t hurt either.

A Swaddle That Soothes

You will soon learn that not all swaddles are created equal (and some are impossible to figure out, especially when you’re sleep deprived). The Ollie is easy to use, made of breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, and even has an open-bottom design so that you can change your baby’s diaper without un-bundling them.

Post-Burp Clean-Up Essentials

These come in a pack of five, but you might want to put more than one on your registry. In those early days, you need constant access to burp cloths. These ones are 100% organic cotton, soft and absorbent, and hold up well even after (what feels like) a million washes.

Comfy Hooded Towels

These towels serve two primary functions: drying your baby off after a bath, and protecting their soft little heads. Not to mention, they’re too adorable. It doesn’t hurt that they're 100% cotton and double-sided, too.

A Bathtime Savior

Every mother of a newborn needs a baby bath, and this one is excellent. We love that it comes with adorable extras: a rinser you can use to gently wash your little one, a spout cover that will keep them from banging their head, and an elbow rest and knee pad for you to make all that bending less painful.

The Baby-Grooming Essentials

Add this kit to cover all the little things you didn’t think about: nail cutting, scalp massaging, snot handling, and relieving gas. Each tool is thoughtfully (and kind of ingeniously) designed and easy to use.

A Nursing Pillow That Prioritizes Your Comfort

If you’re planning to nurse, this pillow will make it easier. There have been many iterations over the years, and this updated design gives you the option to nurse in different positions and still stay comfortable. It’s also got a firmer shape that hugs your body tight, and a removable, machine-washable cover.

An Adorable Place For Tummy Time

You’ve probably heard of this play gym, and it really is that good. It’s an ideal spot for tummy time or just to lay your baby down and let them explore. It comes with hanging toys they’ll start to reach for, and black and white cards designed to engage their senses.

Looking for the best for your baby? Learn more about Pampers AMORE diapers.

]]><![CDATA[How Do I Know If My Baby Is Comfortable? The Most Crucial Detail For Your Little One’s Comfort]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/how-do-i-know-if-my-baby-is-comfortable-the-most-crucial-detail-for-your-little-ones-comforthttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/how-do-i-know-if-my-baby-is-comfortable-the-most-crucial-detail-for-your-little-ones-comfortTue, 07 Jul 2026 19:25:11 GMT

Becoming a new parent basically turns you into an amateur mind-reader of tiny humans. All of a sudden, you’re deciphering the difference between giggles and gurgles, burps and babbles, and the quickest way to turn an absolute meltdown into a total smile fest.

But even the most experienced parents can’t overcome this simple fact: When your baby is upset, they can’t exactly tell you what’s wrong — at least, not in actual words. (Too bad babies don’t come with subtitles.)

Instead, you’re left trying to decode funny facial expressions and fussy movements to better learn your baby’s language. Does that cry mean your little one’s too cold or too hot? Are they hungry? Gassy? So tired that they can’t sleep (aka, overtired and yes, that’s a thing!). Or are they simply uncomfortable?

While every baby is different, there's one surprisingly simple factor that plays a huge role in their overall happiness. That all comes down to keeping their skin dry and clean, so they can stay comfortable through the night. It all makes sense knowing that skin irritation is one of the top reasons a baby gets fussy. Thankfully, you can count on Pampers Swaddlers to help your kiddo stay dry, healthy, and comfortable. No subtitles necessary.

Read on for some pro tips to shoring up your little one’s comfort.

Comfort Starts With Dryness

Just think of how irksome it is to sit around in a wet bathing suit after a swim, with damp fabric preventing your skin from fully drying. Babies in soiled diapers are no different; keeping them dry is a big part of keeping them comfortable.

Pampers Swaddlers provide up to 12 hours of protection day and night, so your little one can spend more time smiling, sleeping, and snuggling. The built-in KeepDry liners pull wetness away from your baby's skin, while the diaper’s All-Around LeakGuard keeps messes contained, even when your baby is busy kicking, wiggling, and rolling around.

You might be wondering, “What about the dreaded up-the-back blowout?” Pampers Swaddlers also feature a Blowout Barrier (available in size 1 and up) designed to help stop leaks before they require a full wardrobe change.

For moments when the sniff test still leaves you wondering, "Wait, does this diaper actually need changing?," Pampers Swaddlers feature a color-coded wetness indicator that lets you know when it’s time to grab a new one.

Don't Forget About Sensitive Skin

Your baby's skin is delicate to begin with. Considering how many diaper changes happen over the course of your day (and night!), the gentleness of the products you use matters just as much as the diaper change itself.

Once again, the hypoallergenic Pampers Swaddlers have you covered. Their diapers are fragrance free and clinically proven safe for sensitive skin. That means parents can feel good reaching for them again and again (and again).

When it's cleanup time, Pampers Sensitive Wipes help to make the process a little gentler. Clinically proven to nourish sensitive skin and help restore natural pH levels, they're extra thick and soft while remaining as mild as a washcloth and water.

The Good News? Comfort Doesn't Have To Be Complicated

There are plenty of ways to soothe a fussy baby, but keeping them clean, dry, and comfortable is crucial. Knowing your baby's diapers and wipes are working hard behind the scenes? That gives you one less thing to worry about during a busy day.

That ease is important because between the feedings, diaper changes, laundry, and searching "is this normal?" at 2 a.m., it's alarmingly easy for the days to blur together. That's what makes the Pampers Milestone Memories Gift Set such a thoughtful addition for new parents. Along with Pampers Swaddlers and Pampers Sensitive Wipes, it includes milestone cards, an embroidered onesie and hat, exclusive coupons, and other keepsakes designed to help families celebrate and remember the moments that fly by far too quickly.

So yes, babies may not come with subtitles, but their comfort doesn't have to be such a mystery. With trusted essentials like Pampers Swaddlers and Pampers Sensitive Wipes on hand, that's one parenting puzzle you can solve easily.

For a diaper that prioritizes your baby’s skin health and comfort, check out Pampers Swaddlers.

]]><![CDATA[Your Definitive Guide To Changing A Diaper Confidently]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/guide-to-changing-a-diaper-confidentlyhttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/guide-to-changing-a-diaper-confidentlyTue, 07 Jul 2026 19:24:45 GMT

It's a tale as old as time: You're relaxing with your baby after a feeding — or sometimes still in the middle of one — when it hits you. The scents and sounds of a blowout. Your little one giggles, blissfully unaware, while you search their eyes for early warning signs of what may be brewing below. Was that the creaking of a stroller seat, or exactly what you think it was?

And let’s be honest: diaper changes are intimidating as a new parent. If you're wondering if there's actually a way to do diaper changes correctly to safeguard against leaks, blowouts, and your little ones’ discomfort, there is. And Pampers is here to help.

First, the most important thing: be patient with yourself. Whether this is your first diaper change or your thousandth, there's no single "correct" way to navigate parenthood, especially when you're doing your best. That said, this guide will walk you through a few tips that can take the edge off.

1. Gather Your Supplies Before You Need Them

You know what's chaotic? Realizing you're out of wipes halfway through a diaper change. Before your baby hits the changing pad, get everything within arm's reach: a changing pad and cover, a diaper pail that can handle the smell, and the things you'll be reaching for dozens of times a day — most importantly, a fresh diaper.

Looking for a go-to diaper? There’s a reason Pampers Swaddlers are the #1 Pediatrician Recommended diaper.** They're dermatologist tested, hypoallergenic, and have been clinically proven for sensitive skin. Plus, they’re free of fragrance and elemental chlorine. Not to mention, they have up to 100% leak and blowout protection and a wetness indicator that changes color when it's time for a change, taking the guesswork out of the early newborn days.

Wipes are also a must. Every parent needs something that's gentle on their baby's skin, but effective at cleaning up the mess, and Pampers Sensitive Wipes are a great choice. Fragrance-free, clinically proven to soothe sensitive skin, plus diaper cream to keep irritation at bay and a few clean outfits within reach. And one more thing: hand sanitizer. Future you will be grateful.

2. Handle The Mess With Confidence

Once your baby is on the changing pad, open the dirty diaper and use a Pampers Sensitive Wipe to clean things up. Gently lift their ankles and wipe front to back, making sure to get into the folds. When they're all clean, slide a fresh Pampers Swaddlers diaper underneath and apply diaper cream if needed.

Here's an expert-level move: toss the used wipes into the dirty diaper, roll the whole thing into a tidy bundle, and secure it with the diaper tabs before dropping it in the pail. One small step that makes cleanup significantly less chaotic.

3. Position The New Diaper Correctly

When you pull the front of the diaper up, Pampers Swaddlers feature an umbilical cord notch to protect your baby's belly button. Next — this step is super important to protect against blowouts, so take note — pull out the ruffles around the leg openings.

Pampers Swaddlers are also designed with KeepDry liners, All-Around LeakGuard, and a Blowout Barrier (available in sizes 1 and up) to keep leaks and blowouts contained and keep your baby's skin dry and healthy.

4. Don't Forget To Celebrate The Little Moments

Before long, you'll be changing diapers on the go, in the dark, half asleep — practically in your sleep. And through all of it, Pampers wants to make sure you’re covered.

If you're shopping for a new parent or know someone who’s expecting, the Pampers Milestone Memories Gift Set is a great place to start — packed with diapers, wipes, and other goodies to help families mark the moments that matter. While no one is ever perfectly prepared for starting parenthood, having products you can actually trust makes every day feel a little more manageable. When your baby stays comfortable, dry, and leak-free through the night, everyone wakes up happier.

Purchase Pampers Swaddlers here.

**Study based on 2025 survey of US and Canadian Pediatrician.

]]><![CDATA[The Mom Who Has The Best Of Everything? Here’s What’s In Her Diaper Bag]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/the-mom-who-has-the-best-of-everything-heres-whats-in-her-diaper-baghttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/the-mom-who-has-the-best-of-everything-heres-whats-in-her-diaper-bagTue, 07 Jul 2026 19:24:05 GMT

Welcoming a baby has a funny way of turning you into someone with extremely strong opinions about things you never thought twice about before. Suddenly, you’re scrutinizing fabric blends, pouring over ingredient labels, and scrolling reviews for diaper dispensers into the wee hours of the morning.

Because when it comes to your baby, "good enough" doesn't really feel good enough. Throwing just anything in your diaper bag? That’s not the vibe. You want products that are thoughtfully made, exceptionally designed, and gentle enough for the tiny human you're about to bring home. Call it nesting. Call it research. Call it love.

Even in those moments of option overwhelm, the #1 choice for parents-to-be helps you cut through the noise. Pampers is the go-to for not just diapers, but all the other essentials for your mini-me. From their premium AMORE diapers and to their premium wipes, Pampers believes that every baby deserves the best.

Whether you’re the one with the sophisticated taste or shopping for a new-mom friend who fits the bill, these are the items that the most discerning moms are stocking in their diaper bags.

The Best Diaper Out There

The first thing you need in a diaper bag is (duh) diapers. But not just any diapers. You want something that suits your baby’s sensitive skin without sacrificing comfort and protection. Pampers AMORE diapers are the gold standard, with five layers of protection to help support a healthy microbiome. They’re tested for over 1,000 harmful chemicals*, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, and soft and gentle on your baby’s sweet lil’ skin.

*See pampers.com/en-us/product/Amore for more information

A Pure Wipe For Baby’s Sensitive Skin

Here’s a mantra for your first go-around at parenthood: Thou shalt not leave home without baby wipes. Pampers Aqua Wipes are made sans-alcohol, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, dyes, or fragrances. They’re simple, soft, and will save you time and time again.

The Whole Diaper-Changing Package

Pampers Swaddlers diapers? Check. Adorable onesie and matching hat? Check. Pampers Sensitive Wipes? Check. This gift set has everything you or an expecting loved one needs, plus fun extras like monthly milestone cards and a photo coupon to help you remember each moment. Add to bag ASAP.

A Changing Pad That Makes Anywhere Cushy

It’s a guarantee that you’ll have to change your baby in all kinds of places, many of which will seem a bit crazy: think the airport bathroom, the newly renovated bathroom at your in-laws house, or a crowded department store. This smartly designed pad is waterproof and easy to use, and even holds a few diapers and small garbage bags. It’s also got a dispenser where you can store your wipes.

A Tasteful Breastfeeding Sling

If you’re breastfeeding, do it in style with this nursing cover. It has a loop on one corner that lets you easily form a circle of fabric around your body, rather than just draping and hoping for the best. When it’s not in nursing use, it also makes a great baby blanket.

A Sooting, Automatic Shush-er

Make on-the-go naps a snap with a sound machine that never leaves your bag. This one includes 21 sound options — so you can settle on the one your babe likes best — and even has a night light. Plus, a detachable ring makes it easy to hook on to your stroller or car seat.

A Fragrant Hand Sanitizer

Germs are lurking everywhere. This spray is simple to store in your bag and use liberally at the playground, the grocery store, or anywhere else you may roam. Just note that it’s only safe for those 3 years and up.

A Sick Day Bundle Prep Kit

Colds pop up at a moment’s notice with a baby, and you don’t want to be without something to clear their tiny nasal passages. But this kit has even more — it also includes vapor rub, vapor wipes, and the MediFrida, a pacifier-style dispenser for administering medicine into your baby’s cheek.

Looking for the best when it comes to your baby’s diaper? Check out Pampers AMORE.

]]><![CDATA[As E-Bike Injuries Soar, New Jersey Will Now Require A License To Ride One]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/new-jersey-new-ebike-lawshttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/new-jersey-new-ebike-lawsTue, 07 Jul 2026 17:21:05 GMT
Mel Melcon/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images

Chances are you’ve seen headlines like this in your city too:

“15-year-old dies after e-bike collides with motorcycle.”
“Death of 14-year-old in e-bike crash sparks safety concerns.”
“12-year-old flown to trauma center for major injuries suffered in e-bike crash.”

In recent years, the rate of injuries resulting from e-bike and e-scooter accidents has soared nationwide. The rate of e-bike and e-scooter injury-related emergency room visits increased by 671% among children and adolescents between 2023 and May 2026, according to health system data gathered by Truveta. Pediatric trauma centers around the country have reported e-bikes are now the leading cause of injury in school-aged children they treat, according to the American College of Surgeons.

In an effort to curb the number of accidents, New Jersey is enacting the strictest e-bike regulations in the country this month. Effective July 19, New Jersey residents must be at least 15 years old and have an e-bike license or a valid driver’s license to operate an e-bike. And just like a car, motorized bicycles (which can reach up to 28 miles per hour) are required to have insurance coverage and be registered. Low-speed electric bicycles, which have a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour, do not require insurance but must be registered. Riders of all ages are required to wear a helmet.

Getting an e-bike license looks pretty much exactly like getting one for a car — teens will have to study a manual on safety and road rules, pass vision and knowledge tests, and then pass a supervised road test as well. Then-New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed these regulations into law back in January, and residents have until the end of the year to register their e-bikes and comply with the new requirements.

Other states have some regulation around e-bike safety. In Oregon, riders of Class 1 e-bikes must be 14 years or older, while any e-bike with a throttle is reserved for 16-year-olds and up. The age was lowered to 14 earlier this year after previously being set at 16, despite the Oregon Health Authority’s report that e-bike injuries continue to rise across the state. New Hampshire and New York have also introduced bills similar to New Jersey’s, essentially regulating e-bikes as motor vehicles to improve safety.

The state’s new laws are in line with what child health and product safety experts have been calling for. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that no one under age 16 be allowed to operate an e-bike or e-scooter. Teens this age are old enough to control the bikes and mature enough to understand the rules of the road — motor vehicle crashes and loss of bike control are the top two causes of pediatric e-bike fatalities, the organization says. Similarly, children 12 and younger should not be allowed on any motorized bike or scooter that goes faster than 10 miles per hour, per the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

E-bikes led to roughly 53,000 emergency department visits and were cited as the cause of 104 deaths between 2017 and 2022, according to data from the CPSC. The American College of Surgeons says that because of the rate of speed involved, kids injured on e-bikes more closely resemble motorcycle crash survivors than bicycle accident victims. About two-thirds of kids who come to the emergency room following an e-bike crash have sustained a head injury, their report adds, noting that typical bicycle helmets are not crash-tested at such high speeds — riders on faster models should actually be wearing motorcycle helmets.

As New Jersey residents adjust to the new laws, legal experts say other states may soon follow suit. Regardless of your state’s laws, doctors encourage parents to review user manuals and safety guidelines for the e-bike’s size and weight limits, make sure your child is highly visible while riding, and always require kids to wear the appropriate helmet.

]]><![CDATA[13 Budget-Friendly Outdoor Toys, Games, & Crafts To Banish Summer Boredom]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/summer-boredom-busters-toys-games-craftshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/summer-boredom-busters-toys-games-craftsMon, 06 Jul 2026 20:24:30 GMT
FG Trade/E+/Getty Images

We’re about halfway through summer, and chances are you’re feeling it. The initial burst of excitement about beach days and family trips has ebbed. The milestone that is July 4th has come and gone. Now it’s just obscenely hot outside and you and your kids have already done everything you could possibly do indoors. If they’re not interested in the toys and books they’re used to and you need to get them away from the TV, these are some of the summer boredom busters I turn to in a pinch.

My qualifications, you ask? I’m a mom with one 5-year-old boy who has worked from home with him quite a bit over the years. I don’t have an endless budget or endless patience, so these are the sorts of products I add to cart when I need to keep him peacefully occupied and off of screens.

Sponge Balls For Endless Water Fun

I knew reusable water balloons were a thing, but these? Oh, these could change the game. You could have an old-school water fight with them, or set up endless games to occupy your kid. Walk with me: You could draw a big chalk target on the driveway and assign points to each ring. Everyone gets to toss the whole set of sponge balls and try to rack up the most points. I’ve done this with my kid, and it kept him outside for a while trying to beat his own best score. Competitive siblings will be at it even longer.

A Double-Sided Plastic Track For Monster Trucks & Cars

This little truck track seems so clutch to me — I wish I’d had it when my son was younger. You could toss it in the car or wagon to take to friends’ houses and outdoor events (like older siblings’ games) to entertain the kids. It can be played with inside, too. It’s just easy and versatile, and it doesn’t make a bunch of annoying sounds.

Mess-Free Paint Sticks (Yes, Paint Sticks)

I love twist-up paint sticks with a passion. They take the gloopy, drippy mess of paint and just do away with it completely while keeping all the fun and vibrancy. A set of these plus a $5 roll of craft paper rolled out across the floor is all the encouragement a kid needs to make a mural for their room, draw a road for their toy cars, or whatever else they can dream up.

An Indoor/Outdoor Tent For All The Open-Ended Play

Something about a fort makes your kid see all their books and toys in a new light. They can make it cozy and read in there! Lay down all their blankets and watch a movie from the floor! Create a cave of stuffies! My son has a tent we take out every so often, and its presence alone keeps him busy for hours. This one would be even better because it can be used outside, so it’s a good beach gear addition too.

A Classic Boredom Buster

Remember Mad Libs?! They were so fun! And they are not gone, oh no — you can grab one of these little paperbacks for a cool five bucks. They’re a silly little thing to keep around for kids to do with friends or on a road trip, at a restaurant, or wherever, really.

Origami Paper & Explainers

Origami but make it cute? If your kid loves to craft and is old enough to do kits without your help, this origami set would be such a fun boredom buster. The 60 patterned papers can be folded into axolotls, unicorns, dragons, and so much more. You’re going to find little creatures all over the house.

A Sprinkler With Basically Zero Setup

One of my favorite summer hacks is to buy some sort of sprinkler or splash pad that requires minimal setup. This one gives you 12 feet of wacky wiggling water streams, and all you have to do is twist it onto the hose and turn on the spigot. I have been known to turn on the sprinkler, hand my kid a popsicle, and gently nudge him out the back door.

A Throwback To Mom & Dad’s School Days

Growing up, did anyone else’s teacher have a bunch of these boards for students to play with when they finished their work? This feels like a teacher-approved summer boredom buster that flexes that spatial part of the brain, but it’s also just a fun matching game.

A Nostalgic Bead Pet Kit

Bead frogs and lizards feel like a core childhood memory for millennial parents, and we can easily share the fun with our own kids. A bead-making kit like this would’ve occupied me for hours, and I could see my 7-year-old niece sitting down with this and not getting up til she had three keychains finished. For $10.97 you can’t beat it, and you can always buy more beads to keep making use of the stencils.

A Card Deck Scavenger Hunt

Your kid will need to be old enough to read, but as long as they’ve got that down, you can hand them this card deck and cut them loose. The cards have prompts like “find something that lights up” or “find something round” — open-ended enough that your kid will definitely find something to fit the parameters, but still narrow enough to keep them hunting for a bit.

Sticker-Making Kits That Add An Extra Step

Sticker books are great, but making the stickers before using them is both fun and time-consuming — exactly what a boredom buster should be. My nieces and son love making customized bubble stickers by choosing their background and confetti filler, and then slapping them on all their belongings. This kit is so affordable it’s crazy, but there are also bigger options, like this gem painting sticker kit.

A Big Bag Of Stuff & A Roll Of Tape

All kits aside, nothing keeps my son busier for longer than a big bag of stuff and a few adhesives of his choosing. My mom and I have both purchased an assortment of craft supplies like this, some construction paper, glue sticks and tape, because if you set it all out he’ll spend hours making creatures, bookmarks, and more. The key is just to get a variety of interesting doodads, like googly eyes, sticky gems, and feathers. Don’t forget the feathers.

A Boredom-Busting Toy That’ll Last Through Summer

The sound of a remote control car whirring around the house and slamming into my baseboards is enough to drive me insane, but if you have room for your kid to drive an RC car outside? That’s worth the investment. This Mario Kart one has been very durable despite my son’s terrible driving and is currently on sale. Older kids can set up obstacle courses for theirs with plastic cups, ramps, and other random household objects.

If you can’t make it to the store today, hand your kid a water hose and step away. The water and the power trip will keep them busy for a solid hour, buying you a little sliver of peace until you can add a few more boredom-busting items to your arsenal.

]]><![CDATA[Best Rides At Epic Universe, Ranked By A Mom (Including The One I'd Skip)]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/best-epic-universe-rides-rankedhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/best-epic-universe-rides-rankedMon, 06 Jul 2026 20:08:58 GMT
Bloomberg/Bloomberg/Getty Images

Universal’s newest theme park, Epic Universe, is a trip through some of the biggest and best franchises in the company’s catalog. Each immersive area — Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Celestial Park, the Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe — feels like its own entity. And each and every attraction brings a part of those worlds to life, whether it’s flying your own dragon through some aerial acrobatic moves or fleeing from a rabid werewolf. As a thrill-seeking, nostalgic-for-Nintendo mom who just went, these are the best rides at Epic Universe (plus the one I’d skip).

My Personal Skip: Constellation Carousel

This is no fault of the carousel’s, but in the scheme of rides, I can ride a carousel most anywhere while everything else at Epic Universe feels unique to this park. That said, if you’re looking for a shady ride to catch your breath on — because shade comes at a premium at Epic — you should check this attraction out.

10. Fyre Drill

I have a lot of sensory icks, and the heavy chlorine smell and wet clothes sensation I associate with water rides typically put me off of them. However, it can get seriously hot at Florida theme parks, and even the water ride haters can get drawn in. Fyre Drill feels like a really original attraction — you board a Viking ship and take up arms with your own personal water-blasting cannon.

(There’s a people dryer nearby for a $7 full-body blow dry, if that changes anything for you.)

9. Yoshi’s Adventure

Katie McPherson
The view of Super Nintendo World from the back of our little pink Yoshi. | Katie McPherson

This is the most family-friendly ride at Epic Universe — truly, any age of park-goer is welcome here. You walk onto your own Yoshi and cruise ever so slowly through a Nintendo landscape, looking for colorful Yoshi eggs among the scenery. It’s fun to take in all the adorable vignettes and animatronics, and a nice way to get a bird’s-eye view of Peach’s castle.

8. Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry

OK, it’s probably a very hot take putting this ride this low on the list. I just can only get enthused for so many simulation rides, and this one felt so similar to Escape from Gringotts back at Universal Studios. If you love one, you’ll love the other; this is just not the genre of ride that gets me going.

That said, the queues for the HP rides are always so immersive and impressive. You should definitely walk into the Ministry of Magic and take in the scale and detail of it, whether you want to hop on this ride or not.

7. Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

Katie McPherson

It pains me to rank this ride this low; it’s the one I was most excited about at Epic, as I hold so much love and nostalgia for the Mario Kart games. The augmented reality aspect, which lets you fire shells at rival racers on Team Bowser, was just a little confusing and hard to master while also trying to take in the cool surroundings of the ride itself. I think this one would take a few rides to really enjoy, and unfortunately the line was too long to make that possible. That said, my family did love it and we’d happily ride it again!

6. Dragon Racer’s Rally

Proof that a ride does not have to be fancy or full of effects to be fun: Dragon Racer’s Rally, which hoists you up many stories in the air in your very own practice dragon. You can control your training apparatus’ wings, with some riders even managing to pull off a barrel roll, or you can be more hands-off and just enjoy getting swung around and seeing the sights.

5. Curse of the Werewolf

This smaller coaster is a world of fun — it goes forward and backward on the track and spins, so every ride is a little different, and the unpredictability makes it even more exciting. It gets up to 37 miles per hour, but there are no upside-down sections or crazy drops, so it’s more family-friendly than, say, Stardust Racers.

4. Monsters Unchained

I’m not any more into the classic monsters than your average Joe, so I didn’t expect to like this ride as much as I did, but it’s honestly a delight. The waiting area with a demo of the ride is honestly hysterical. I have never ridden a ride like this — you’re on a four-seat wide bench on a swinging, rotating arm — and it was just so cool and impressive and fun. The jump scares were the perfect amount of scary to be fun (I’m a big chicken). This is the ride I tell everyone to check out simply because it’s freaking cool.

3. Mine Cart Madness

Like...look at our joy. | Katie McPherson

I was expecting the Mario Kart ride to make my heart swell with nostalgia, but actually, this is the ride that gave me that feeling. Drawing on the iconic runaway mine cart gameplay from the Donkey Kong games, this roller coaster makes it look and feel like you’re riding in your very own runaway mine cart, complete with “hopping” sections of broken track. I sat in the front left of the cart and couldn’t see the mechanics of the coaster helping us jump those areas, so the illusion was maintained for me, making the ride extra fun. My 5-year-old loved it too!

2. Hiccup’s Wing Gliders

The ride so nice we rode it twice! This is a super fun family coaster that’s great for elementary-aged kids and up. It’s fun and fast without needing to flip you upside down or rattle you around, so even coaster-wary kids might end up loving it. It’s an outdoor coaster so you can see most of it while walking around the Isle of Berk, if you want to get an idea of the speed before waiting in line.

1. Stardust Racers

Listen, if you like roller coasters, this one is top tier. It’s a dueling coaster with tracks that spin and bank together in such cool ways. It’s fast, like it takes your stomach and doesn’t give it back until you’re getting off the ride. It’s even more thrilling to ride at night when the coaster and the entire park are all lit up. I rode this one three times and my neck was toast after the third — those G forces are no joke — but I have zero regrets.

]]><![CDATA[We Need To Talk About The Friendships We're Letting Go]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/letting-go-friendship-guilthttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/letting-go-friendship-guiltMon, 06 Jul 2026 19:28:47 GMT
Rudi_suardi/Getty Images

I recently let a longtime friendship sort of… fade away. We first met when we were 15 years old, two mismatched kids who lived mere minutes apart. That accidental geography somehow turned into nearly three decades of friendship, during which we’ve seen each other through marriage and divorce and babies and death. That’s not the kind of friendship you walk away from on a whim.

But I did walk away. And even though I know it was the best decision for me, I’ve also felt guilty (and been made to feel guilty) about it for months.

So, if you’re reading this and going through something similar, this one’s for you. Because what I’ve figured out since, and what I wish someone had said to me sooner, is that letting a friendship go is not the same as failing at friendship.

Since it’s hard to trust that’s true, though, I asked people who study relationships for a little insight.

Life changes, and we change with it.

How does the expression go? “To all things a season.” That’s not to say that some friendships don’t last your entire life, but it’s pretty common for social circles to narrow as you grow older.

“I don’t think it means people value friendship any less,” therapist Meredith Van Ness, LCSW, told me, "I think life simply asks more of us."

That obviously makes sense, and yet it’s one of those things you don’t really think about when you’re in the middle of a transitional stage with a friend. Van Ness reminds me that, as we get older, our values shift. Responsibilities pile up and, in turn, our actual capacity changes. "Between careers, kids, aging parents, marriages, health concerns, and everything else life throws at us, there simply isn't enough time to invest in every relationship the way we once did,” she explains.

Adding to the confusion of all of this is the fact that we’re in the middle of a loneliness epidemic. Connection is a basic human need, and one that so many of us yearn for more than we’re getting. It would be shameful to squander a friendship you already have… right?

Don’t think of it that way, says Van Ness: “That doesn’t mean every friendship is meant to last forever. Sometimes making room for healthy, reciprocal relationships also means letting go of the ones that no longer fit.”

Circumstance is the foundation of a lot of dated friendships.

When I think about who I was at 15 versus who I am now, of course I’m not the same person. My circumstances now are wildly different from those back then. And that’s a reframe I needed to really wrap my head around: Many friendships weren’t necessarily built to last, because they were situational.

“You make friends where it is convenient to meet people,” explained Dawn Friedman, a licensed professional clinical counselor. “So you make friends in college, then you leave college. You make friends at work, and then you change jobs. The moms you hang out with on maternity leave might not be the same moms you hang out with when your child is in elementary school.”

That lands for me. Sometimes, the perfect person to survive those newborn-fog years with just isn’t someone you call five years later when you have a rare kid-free day. “A great playdate hangout,” Friedman says, isn’t always the same thing as a person you connect with on a deeper level, who you’d choose to spend your limited free time with.

And nope, that still doesn’t make you a bad friend.

If you’re a data person, Friedman points to the “convoy model” of social relationships. The idea? That we all move through life inside a shifting network of ties, the whole formation rearranging as we go. Research suggests that as we age, with women in particular, our friendships tend to get fewer but closer. It becomes less about circumstance and more about choice. “It’s not a failure,” Friedman said. “It’s expected and typical for most women.”

Parenthood plays a big part, too.

For me, the person I’ve become in parenthood made it much clearer that I no longer fit with my old friend. From a purely logistical standpoint, I need to be selective about who I spend my extremely limited time with. “When you have children, your free time shrinks dramatically,” Van Ness says. “Many friendships become more about logistics than intention.”

But there are also your standards.

How I view the world is different in motherhood. I want to surround myself — and my kids — with people who believe in things I think are good and important, things that matter to me. When your time is finite, you get choosier about where it goes.

“For many of my clients, as they work on themselves and develop stronger boundaries, have higher standards for compatibility, or just allow themselves to explore new interests, they change and sometimes friendships won't change with them. This is OK,” Friedman shares.

Van Ness agrees that you figuring out what works for you in terms of the people you surround yourself with is actually healthy. “You're more likely to invest in friendships that feel supportive, easy, and mutual," she says. "You simply have less room for relationships that consistently leave you feeling drained."

How do you know when a friendship has run its course vs. is worth fighting for?

This is the question that I’ve struggled with the most. Did I just need a little space from this friend? Should I give it time and then try to figure out how to fold this person back into my life?

Friedman addressed this question with two stories. And although they took place years apart, the central idea was the same: a friend confronted her about the space between them.

In the first instance, she realized the friend was right… but Friedman also realized that she didn’t feel like that necessarily needed to change. “She just wasn’t the person I thought of when I had time to be social,” Friedman explained. So, she simply told the friend, “You know, you’re right. And I’m sorry that hurts you.” Straightforward. Just an honest acknowledgment that the season of their friendship had perhaps shifted into something else.

When a similar situation happened years later with a different friend, Friedman realized this time she couldn’t see herself without this friend in her life. She leveled with the friend about her mental load; she’d been drowning, and she’d let that create distance. She started inviting her friend to be there even when she felt like she was barely keeping her head above water, and the result? “Fifteen years later, we’re still friends.”

Van Ness says that if you’re at a pivotal point in a friendship, it might be time for a gut check. Distance alone isn’t necessarily the kiss of death, because adult friendships very naturally ebb and flow with busy seasons. What you should really pay attention to is whether the friendship is still healthy. Can you be yourself around this person? Is the effort mutual, or is it more one-sided? Can you talk through sh*t when it comes up?

Or, as Van Ness puts it, “Do you leave feeling supported more often than depleted?”

If the answer to these questions is yes, it might mean there’s good stuff there worth fighting for. But if the answer is a consistent no, well, it could be time to walk away — and that is allowed.

What about the guilt, though?

Both experts offered a comfort here: The guilt doesn’t mean you did something wrong. “Guilt doesn’t automatically mean you made the wrong decision,” Van Ness shares. “Sometimes it simply means the friendship mattered.”

Getting to a point where you feel it’s time to let go doesn’t undo the time in your life when that friendship did work. It doesn’t erase the version of you that person got to know, and vice versa.

Maybe the biggest takeaway for me came from getting permission to do something I’ve felt I didn’t have the right to do: grieve the friendship. “People often think grief only belongs after a death, but friendships deserve grieving too,” Van Ness says. “You can miss someone, appreciate what the friendship gave you, and still recognize that it no longer fits your life."

And Friedman — bless her — went straight for the thing underneath the guilt, which is that so many of us (women especially) were raised on the gospel of being nice. “We are allowed to realize we don’t like people we used to love, and they are allowed to be unlikable,” she tells me.

Sometimes, there’s an obvious reason you’re ready to move past a friendship. Maybe they’re toxic. “But sometimes,” says Friedman, “it’s just that friend is no longer present for us in the way we need or want, or we can’t be there for them in the way they need or want.”

And you don’t owe anyone a farewell essay explaining why, either.

“Lots of times clients will say, ‘But I need to tell her why I don't like her or I'm not being honest,’ and that's not necessarily true. Realizing you no longer vibe with someone isn't a statement on their worth as a human being, it doesn't make them our enemy, and it doesn't require a big discussion about it,” explains Friedman.

She points out that it’s a little bit like dating. “Friendships, like all relationships, are complicated and they can be about timing just as much as they can be about connection ... Some people we will just ‘date’ for a while. Some people will break our hearts.” And, even though it can be hard to admit, “we might break hearts too.”

You can look back and move forward.

I don’t think my friend and I will ever be the kind of friends we once were, and I’ve made peace with that. I’ve learned that I can hold on to what those decades were without diminishing them to a mistake. They were real, and they counted. But the friendship just stopped fitting the person I’ve become — it’s much more complex than that, naturally, but that’s the bare-bones truth.

As Friedman reassures once more, “We can grow apart from people, and they can grow apart from us. It's normal. It happens.”

So, if there’s a person in your mind right now as you read this, maybe it’s time to let yourself off the hook. Not every friendship is built to last forever. And when one reaches its final stop on the journey, you’re allowed to move on. You can be grateful and gone at the same time.

]]><![CDATA[Why Back to School Planning Should Include Conversations With Your Pediatrician About Meningitis Vaccination]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/why-back-to-school-planning-should-include-conversations-with-your-pediatrician-about-meningitis-vaccinationhttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/why-back-to-school-planning-should-include-conversations-with-your-pediatrician-about-meningitis-vaccinationMon, 06 Jul 2026 16:00:25 GMT

Leslie Maier’s son Chris was living his best high school senior life. He had lots of friends and was on the honor roll. He especially loved playing on the varsity high school soccer team and had been selected ‘Athlete of the Week’ for his winning kick in the state soccer championship. His future was looking bright, with plans to attend college in Arizona, pursue a business degree, and play club soccer. And Leslie? She was the proud mom, taking comfort in knowing that Chris would be enrolling at the same school as his sister. “We were on top of the world.”

As a mom, Leslie was prepared for the bittersweet bon voyage of moving her son into a dorm. What she wasn’t prepared for was the heartbreak that was about to unfold.

With less than two and a half months of high school left, life had become a whirlwind. School was busy, soccer season was finishing, and Chris had just returned home from a snowboarding trip with his friends.

At school the next day, Chris started complaining about a headache but claimed to still have the energy to show up to his scheduled soccer practice. While he was there on the field, his coach noticed Chris’ condition worsening; he had chills and couldn’t get warm. “The flu had been going around really bad that time of year,” Leslie said, assuming that it was something that could be dealt with at home.

That night before bed, Leslie checked with Chris to ask if he wanted to go to the ER. Chris declined, saying he just wanted to sleep. They decided that the next morning, he would go to the doctor if he wasn’t better. But when that time came, Chris’ dad found him lying on the bed, saying he couldn’t feel his feet. Shortly after, he lost consciousness.

Chris’ dad rushed to call 911, and the family arrived at the ER at around 9:45 a.m., where doctors ran tests, attempted to resuscitate Chris, and tried to rule out cardiac issues. By noon, doctors sat Leslie and her husband down to deliver the devastating news: Chris had lost enough oxygen to his brain to never be the same. At 12:20 p.m. — less than a day after he began displaying any symptoms — Chris’ mother and father made the heart-wrenching decision to let their child go.

Doctors determined that Chris had contracted meningococcal meningitis, a highly contagious — and serious — infection that causes inflammation around the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is a form of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) which is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, and spreads through respiratory droplets and saliva of an infected person. That means sharing water bottles, kissing, and just being around someone who’s infected can qualify as risky behavior.

Though the spread happens in such an everyday manner, meningitis can become fatal in less than a day. “I didn’t think there was a disease that could kill a healthy child in less than 24 hours,” Leslie says. Now, she’s on a mission to make sure no other mom feels this grief.

Scary Mommy connected with Leslie to share what she’s learned since losing her son, and to spread awareness about the disease. Here are four crucial things to know about meningitis, so you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

1. Kids, Teens, And Young Adults Are In Environments That Make Them Vulnerable

Meningitis is an unpredictable and potentially devastating disease. Even with treatment, up to 18% of those cases are fatal globally. Anyone can get meningococcal disease, and one of the age groups that experience a peak is adolescents. Among adolescents and young adults, those 16 through 23 years old have the highest rates of meningococcal disease, so when you consider how they go through life — sharing food or water bottles and hanging out in close quarters — you see that adolescents and college students are especially vulnerable.

2. Early Symptoms Mimic The Flu

The first red flags Leslie noticed in Chris seemed like cold or the flu symptoms: headache, fatigue, and chills. But she was unaware that these mirror early meningitis symptoms, making it challenging to discern if something more serious was going on.

3. It Can Be Fatal, Fast

Meningitis can progress from mild to fatal rapidly, and in some cases, it can cause death within just a few hours of symptom onset. Hardly a day had passed between Chris’ signs of his initial headache and his death, leaving almost no time for his parents to react. For survivors, other consequences of meningitis include brain damage, hearing loss, learning disabilities, and even limb amputations, meaning it’s not a disease to mess around with.

4. The Best Protection Against Meningitis Is Vaccination

The threat of meningitis is scary, but there’s good news. According to public health experts like school health expert Megan Carlson, DrPH, MSN, RN, PPCNP-BC preventative measures like vaccinations can significantly decrease a person’s risk of contracting meningitis. “For persons not at increased risk, public health experts and professional medical organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend the first vaccine at age 11 or 12, with a booster at 16,” Carlson says. “This doesn’t just protect you and your family. It protects the community.”

It sounds simple, but plenty of families just aren’t aware that one simple preventative measure can go a long way. “You can't stop your child from sharing water bottles as much as you might try,” Leslie explains. “Vaccines are the best way to prevent meningitis.”

The Takeaway

What does Leslie want other parents to learn from her experience? “Make sure you check with your doctor that your child is up to date on vaccines each year.” It’s one extra appointment that could literally save their life.

Notebooks, backpacks, and water bottles aren’t the only things to add to your back-to-school prep routine. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss the meningococcal meningitis vaccination and meningitis booster.

Dr. Carlson and Leslie Maier were compensated by Sanofi for their participation.

MAT-US-2604610-v1.0-05/2026

]]><![CDATA[I Prioritized Raising Good Brothers Over Raising Good Sons]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/i-prioritized-raising-good-brothers-over-raising-good-sonshttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/i-prioritized-raising-good-brothers-over-raising-good-sonsMon, 06 Jul 2026 12:53:57 GMT
Anastasiia Krivenok/Moment/Getty Images

I have four sons, but even more than that, I am the mother of four brothers. My sons have always been very brother-forward, right from their first days as brothers. They are good sons, sure. They love me, sure. But man oh man, are they ever excellent brothers.

It started early. So early I don’t think the stitches from birthing son number two were even healed when his older brother started to want to be the main attraction. He wanted his baby brother to need him, not me. “Doesn’t he even know I’m his brother?” he complained to me, kicking at the end of the couch while I nursed the baby. I pointed out that I was the mother of his baby brother and he needed me for everything. To eat, to change his diaper, to keep him safe. He gave me this look. Sweet yet gently foreboding. Like he was planning ahead to a time when this might not be the case. When I would stop being my baby’s main food source. When that baby would grow into a boy who could walk and talk. And then they would become an unstoppable force and I could possibly come along for the ride.

It was mostly sweet, the way the boys thought about each other all the time. By the time I had baby boy number four, or should I say brother number four, the oldest two were watching me like hawks for any mistakes I might make. They had their little mental checklists at the ready for me every day after school, just in case. “Did you put him in his cradle to sleep? Did you flip him over?” they would ask me before their backpacks hit the floor. “Did you give him a bath when I was gone?”

Aw, cute, I thought, perhaps foolishly. I’m going to really cultivate this.

And I really did cultivate their kinship, especially once I became a single mom. I relished their love for each other. When one son protected his brother during a school fight, I was so proud of him. When two brothers were on the same football team, I cheered like a maniac. Not for their team, really, but for the time they were spending together.

I saw in those moments their future together as adult men after I would be dead and buried. I saw them supporting each other, going on weekends to some rustic cabin together to smoke meats and drink whiskey and do whatever adult brothers might do together to maintain healthy relationships. I had no frame of reference, but I did what I could to help these brothers build something together. They walked home from school together. Learned to play instruments together. Two of them babysat for the neighborhood kids together. They liked the same movies, played the same video games, happily cheered for their opposing teams during Super Bowl Sunday while I made chili in the other room. It’s been wonderful.

I just forgot one thing: I forgot to remind them that I’m here too.

From the time when they were little, I’ve always been this shadowy ghost figure in the background who is rarely included in their stories. Their school journal entries called “My fun weekend at the zoo” featured drawings of the four brothers looking at the zebras, or “My fun road trip” where the four boys magically drove to the coast despite the fact that the oldest was just 11 years old. I don’t know where I figured into the story, but I’m guessing it’s in the region of background character or unpaid chauffeur.

We mostly joke about this now that the brothers are adults. Or they mostly joke about it in their reportedly active group chat that is not for me. The family group chat I started for them barely registers a lackluster thumbs-up every few weeks or so.

This is normal. I’m pretty sure it’s normal. And mostly I love it. I love that they get such joy from hanging out. I love that they play basketball together. I love sitting in the other room reading a book while they play Risk and good-naturedly argue. I feel lucky, because I know this could have gone another way. I’ve seen siblings who barely have a word to say to each other in adulthood. I know how difficult that can be. I know how lonely it can be.

I’m relieved, mostly I’m relieved, to know that my sons-the-brothers will still be a family long after I’m gone. I’m fairly confident they’ll be good uncles, good brothers-in-law, good men, because they push each other to be good men, when they don’t have me around anymore.

I just want to politely, gently, kindly remind them that I’m still around now. And I might not be a brother, but they wouldn’t be brothers either if I hadn’t birthed all four of them.

So really I’m just asking:let me in the better family group chat please. I promise I won’t ruin it.

Jen McGuire lives in Canada and teaches life writing workshops where someone cries in every class. When she is not traveling as often as possible she’s trying to organize pie parties and outdoor karaoke with her neighbors. She will sing Cher’s “If I Could Turn Back Time” at least once but she’s open to requests. You can find Jen on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter (sorry, X).

]]><![CDATA[65 Bougie Things Under $20 That Are Actually Life-Changing]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/bougie-things-under-20-that-are-actually-life-changinghttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/bougie-things-under-20-that-are-actually-life-changingSat, 04 Jul 2026 12:45:24 GMT
Amazon

Elevating your daily routine shouldn't require blowing your budget — and you shouldn’t have to choose between aesthetics and functionality either. That’s exactly why we rounded up these wallet-friendly, life-changing upgrades that deliver bougie for less. Whether you’re staying home or stepping out, you’re going to appreciate that each find offers maximum practicality along with a touch of everyday luxury. Scroll on to shop the edit.

A 4-Pack Of Travel Storage Containers With Upscale Details

Whether you need to tidy up your bathroom drawers or just need a better way to pack your toiletry items for travel, these bougie little storage containers are sure to help. Offered as a set of four, the lids feature a stylish sunburst design and silicone strips for moisture protection. Fill them with cotton swabs, hair ties, flossers, Band-Aids, and more. They’re offered in pretty hues that look luxe in your travel bag.

Pretty Toe Separators For Smudge-Free Pedicures

DIY pedicures will feel so much more posh when you use these pretty toe separators — and they’ll help prevent smudging, too. The affordable pack includes four sets, each featuring colorful floral designs and comfy silicone that promises to stay put. Shoppers swear by these home pedicure essentials — just clock that 4.7-star rating.

A Window Film For A Stunning Stained-Glass Look

Get the look of real stained glass without busting your budget with this high-quality window film. It has a 3D textured surface for a frosted look, stunning rainbow colors, and a classic diamond pattern. You’ll appreciate how it instantly adds privacy to your home, as well as UV ray protection. Simply use water to install.

A Small But Mighty Personal Fan That Clips On

Stay cool no matter where you are with this genius clip-on fan. It’s super compact, so you can attach it to shirt collars, waistbands, and more. Then, just tap to turn on and choose between three speeds. It even has a rotating vent so you can get the perfect airflow angle. Enjoy up to three hours of continuous use on a single charge.

A Quilted Laptop Sleeve That’s Machine Washable

Schlepping your tech around unprotected is a big no-no, making this laptop sleeve a must. It has a chic quilted design, plus a velvety lining and lots of padding that help minimize dust and damage from getting tossed around. And when it gets dirty, just throw it in the washer to have it looking like new again. Choose from several solid hues and trendy prints within the listing.

A Keychain Compact With A Built-In Light For Touch-Ups

This keychain compact brings flawless touch-ups right to your bag. It features a dual magnification mirror and three adjustable LED brightness levels — all powered by a USB-rechargeable battery that can stay powered for up to two weeks. Simply clip it to your purse for effortless access on the go.

Flexible Silicone Headbands For A Polished Look Without The Pressure

These headbands aren’t just stylish, they’re also incredibly comfortable. The soft silicone bands have flexible inner wires and comb teeth, securely gripping hair without slipping or yanking. And they won't cause headaches or squeeze your pressure points either, even after wearing them all day. Choose from two packs featuring chic animal patterns.

A Chic Keychain for Your AirTag

This chic keychain looks like something you’d find in a designer boutique, but it’s actually incredibly affordable. It features a stunning floral design crafted from soft and durable vegan leather. And it has a hidden, shockproof compartment for stashing AirTags. Choose from a selection of pretty themes.

Color-Changing Shower Lights For Spa Vibes

These waterproof shower lights will take your daily self-care routine to a luxe level. They offer a range of colors and brightness modes and come with a remote for convenient operation. And no tools or wiring are needed since they’re completely USB rechargeable and attach to surfaces with their adhesive and magnetic design.

A Bamboo Snack Tray For Your Couch

Tired of reaching for the coffee table? This sleek bamboo couch tray brings effortless style and convenience right to your armrest. The sturdy, heat-resistant tray keeps your drinks and snacks organized, while the nonslip backing keeps it securely in place. It’s the ultimate living room upgrade — but shockingly inexpensive.

A Set Of Cup Holders That Keep Sand Off Drinks

If you have beach plans in store, you need this two-pack of handy cup holders that stick right into the sand. They’re designed to hold drinks, phones, lip balm, and more — so you always have what you need within easy reach. They can also be used in the grass for your next picnic. One shopper noted, “Perfect for keeping your drink from getting sandy and spreading it everywhere. Stays nicely.”

A Chic Coffee Mug With 2 Ways To Sip

You’ll love enjoying your morning brew out of this artsy little coffee mug that offers a comfy, handleless grip and two drinking spouts — one for a straw, the other for regular sipping. It’s crafted from durable ceramic with a durable glaze and a hand-painted striped pattern. Plus, it’s both dishwasher- and microwave-safe for added convenience. Choose from three neutral colorways.

Sparkly Cup Holder Coasters For Easier Cleanups

These car cup holder coasters add a luxe touch to your vehicle’s interior — but they also make those hard-to-reach places so much easier to clean up since you can simply lift them out and rinse. Made from waterproof silicone, they help keep your cup holders tidy between cleanings. You get two coasters in a very wallet-friendly set.

A Monogram Stamp For 5-Star Hotel Toilet Paper Rolls

Surprise your friends and family with a little detail that will make them feel like they’re staying at a five-star resort. Simply use this monogram stamp to seal toilet paper rolls in your guest bathroom. It’s durable, easy to use, and available in letters A to Z — all featuring a fancy font design.

A Clear Acrylic Cutting Board That’s So Modern

This is one cutting board that you won’t want to stash after use. That’s because it’s totally transparent and blends in seamlessly with countertops for a modern finish. Constructed from clear acrylic, it’s both durable and easy to wipe clean. And the lip along the front helps prevent it from slipping while you prep.

Dainty Dust Charms For Your Tech

Give your tech a bougie look with these dainty dust plugs that keep your charging ports protected. You’ll drool over all of the pretty designs — think butterflies, roses, pearls, and stars. In fact, you’ll be genuinely shocked at how inexpensive they are given their luxe look. And they’re compatible with Kindle and USB-C charging ports, which means they’re ultra versatile, too.

A Luxe Water Bottle Bag For Your Daily Workout

You can finally free up your hands while you walk just by throwing this luxe water bottle bag over your shoulder. You’ll love the trendy quilted design and the fact that it has compartments for stashing all your essentials — up to a 40-ounce tumbler, your phone, keys, and more. And the color selection is just as obsession-worthy.

Self-Warming Eye Masks For Instant Relief

These steam eye masks are a must for dry, tired eyes. The self-warming patches provide instant relief and are so comfy that you can wear them while you sleep. The affordable box includes 16 individually packaged masks, which means you can also pack a few in your carry-on for relief on the go.

An Elegant Dessert Spoon Set Shaped Like A Swan

Scrambling to find matching spoons each time your friends stop by for coffee? Then you’re going to want to grab this elegant dessert spoon set. It features a stunning swan holder and 12 matching spoons with feather detailing — all constructed from durable stainless steel. Choose from silver and gold finishes.

A Pearly Band For Your Apple Watch

If you can’t leave home without your Apple Watch but wish it matched your outfits better, you’ll want to upgrade to this band. It’s ultra stretchy for added comfort and studded with chic resin beads that boast a pearly sheen that looks good with everything. Simply attach it to your watch with the rust-resistant adapters.

Door Silencers With Linen-Like Pads

It’s easier than you think to stop your home’s doors from slamming and waking everyone up — just slide on these upscale door silencers. They’re crafted from a linen-like fabric and feature elastic straps for easy, secure installation. They wrap around the door, preventing lockouts, while still allowing you to fully shut the doors.

A Designer-Look-Alike Lamp That Has A Wax-Warming Feature

This chic lamp looks like an expensive designer glass piece, but it’s surprisingly wallet-friendly. Beyond its designer look, you’ll appreciate that it adds an inviting glow to any space, while also doubling as a wax warmer — which means you can enjoy twice the aesthetic vibes.

A Must-Have Electric Lighter For Candle Lovers

Stop burning your hands while lighting your favorite pillar candles and get this electric lighter instead. Not only does it have a long handle for a safer reach, but it’s also windproof thanks to the plasma arc technology that requires zero fuel — just charge using the included USB cord.

Posh Perfume Bottles For Travel

If you’re still packing your full-size perfume bottles when headed out on vacation, you might want to take a peek at these posh atomizers instead. They’re super-compact and turn your perfume into a fine mist, making them perfect for stashing in weekender bags and layering on scents. You get four portable, refillable bottles in a pack.

An Ornate Toothpick Holder With A Classical Design

This toothpick holder allows you to keep the after-dinner essentials within easy reach while adding a sophisticated touch to your tabletop. This gorgeous find resembles an authentic Fabergé egg, right down to embossed details and colorful peacock design. Push the top to pop open the lid, then push to close and keep toothpicks free from dust.

A Hair Dryer Holder That Can Stand The Heat

Looking for a handy place to store your hair tools? This convenient hair dryer holder does just that, and some. It can be mounted with screws or the included adhesive backing. It has prongs for holding most blow-dryer sizes, plus a place for your flat iron. And since it’s made from heat-resistant stainless steel, you never have to worry about melting. It also comes with a separate hook for cords.

A Stunning Necklace That Doubles As A Fidget

You’ll want to wear this stunning necklace every chance you get. And because the floral pendant features a spinning bloom, it actually doubles as a fidget, so you can achieve calm vibes on the go. The polished gold finish and sparkly gems make it look like a high-priced find, but you’ll be happily surprised by what it actually costs.

A Grounding Stone That Soothes In Seconds

This super-practical grounding stone offers a quick way to destress during the day. It basically brings together fidgeting and aromatherapy. The kit comes with a textured swivel stone and jasmine and amber essential oil — just add a few drops and spin the stone for instant calm.

A Keychain With Colorful Stone Beads That Add Charm

Fishing for your keys at the bottom of your bag is about as annoying as it gets, making this keychain a must. And it looks bougie too, so you’ll be excited to show it off. It features colorful stone beads, plus a clever double-clasp design that makes it incredibly easy to snap your keys directly onto your tote or backpack.

Elegant Espresso Cups With Wooden Handles

Elevate your morning ritual with these elegant espresso cups. They’re crafted from ceramic that helps keep your beverages warm and feature chic fluted sides and wooden handles for sophisticated style. They’re available in budget-friendly sets of two and four and in upscale colorways, including ombre designs.

A Shower Mirror With A Rotating Base

This shower mirror will streamline your self-care routine. It features a large mirrored surface that’s easy to keep clear simply by rinsing it with water as you shower, plus a rotating base that allows you to get the perfect viewing angle and built-in razor holders. Stick it to your shower walls with the included adhesive.

Salt & Paper Shakers With Press-to-Dispense Tech

These electric salt and pepper shakers will take the guesswork out of seasoning your food. They feature press-to-dispense tech (AKA tap the side buttons for precision seasoning). And you’ll appreciate that they make it easy to switch between six different coarseness levels. Use the included USB cord to keep them charged and ready to go.

Antique Copper Cord Organizers For Easier Reach

These sleek cord organizers offer an elegant way to manage charging cables on nightstands, countertops, desks, and beyond. Easy to install with adhesive or screws, they keep cords tidy and prevent them from slipping onto floors. Grab them in affordable sets of three or more — all available in upscale finishes like the antique copper featured here.

A 2-Pack Of Bougie Eyeglass Holders For Scratch-Free Lenses

Keep your eyewear scratch-free and easily accessible with this pair of bougie holders. They feature buttery soft faux leather exteriors and velvet interiors that help protect lenses from damage. The color selection includes classic tones, plus a few sparkly finishes for an eye-catching touch.

A Car Charger With A Built-In Projector

Trying to power up your phone while you drive can be a huge pain, but this innovative car charger makes it so much easier. Not only does it offer lightning-fast charging for up to four devices simultaneously, but it also features two retractable cords for avoiding tangled messes, plus a starlight projector for bougie vibes.

An Earbud Strap That Looks Like Jewelry

Love the convenience of wireless earbuds but hate how easy they are to lose? This AirPod strap is the fix, and it looks good enough to wear with even your bougiest outfits. The stainless steel chain mimics the look of a gold necklace, while the tips are lined with silicone to help prevent earbuds from falling.

A Countour Face Brush For Glowing Skin

This face brush is a must-have for maintaining a radiant, healthy glow. Equipped with soft yet effective bristles, it works to flush toxins, reduce puffiness, and maximize the absorption of your favorite skincare products. The ergonomic, curved design features textured bumps that deliver a relaxing, spa-like massage.

A Classy Sunglasses Holder For Your Car

Stash your shades in style with this classy car sunglasses holder. You’ll love the woven faux leather design, plus the velvety lining that helps prevent scratches. Slide the clip over your car visor to enjoy easy access and single-handed operation thanks to the genius magnetic closure. And just wait until you see the color selection and wallet-friendly price tag.

An Elegant Incense Holder That Traps Ashes

This elegant incense holder is a must for keeping messy ashes from taking over your space, and you’ll love the minimalist, Japanese-inspired design, too. It’s crafted from heat-resistant ceramic and features a unique lever mechanism that keeps the incense sticks horizontal for a steady smoke rise.

A Stylish Car Organizer For Easy Access

Keep your phone and on-the-go essentials within easy reach with this sleek car organizer. Made from smooth faux leather with stylish stitching, it features a convenient open pocket for quick access. It's also incredibly easy to install — just use the strong adhesive strip to attach it to your center console or dashboard.

Heart-Shaped Tumbler Straws That Are So Durable

These heart-shaped straws are going to be your new favorite tumbler upgrade. Not only are they cute, but with four straws in the pack, you’ll always have a clean one ready to grab. Constructed from BPA-free titan, they offer a durable, safer sip. And the affordable set even includes a cleaning brush for easy maintenance.

Portable Coffee Canisters With Air-Tight Seals

Whether you’re heading to the office or a campsite, these portable coffee canisters are perfect for storing your beans or grounds. The budget-friendly find features a handy carrying strap and a stackable design for ultimate convenience, plus the airtight seals keep your coffee fresher for longer.

Sparkly Camera Lens Covers For Your Phone

These camera lens covers add a touch of sparkle to your phone while protecting one of its most-used features from damage. They’re available in a variety of colors and are crafted with tempered glass for maximum durability and safety. Just press them on for a secure fit.

A Purse Charm That Lights Up To Help You Find What You Need

Say goodbye to digging around in the dark. This adorable heart purse charm features a smart sensor that automatically detects hand movement, turning on a bright LED light for 15 seconds before shutting off. Plus, the easy-to-use clasp allows you to quickly swap it from bag to bag.

A Pretty Electric Plate For Coffee & Candle Warming

This pretty warmer plate is perfect for keeping your morning brew warm well past the morning — it can even double as a candle warmer. Just plug it in, and it’s ready to go, maintaining the ideal temperature for hours. Choose from three neutral colors that are sure to match any space.

Whimsical String Lights For Indoor Or Outdoor Spaces

Brighten up indoor and outdoor spaces with these whimsical string lights. They feature a whopping 300 LEDs that offer a warm, relaxing glow. The flexible silver wire makes them easy to adjust along curtain rods, fences, and more. The USB-powered set offers eight lighting modes, dimmable settings, and a handy remote timer.

A Clamp-On Lamp That’s Endlessly Adjustable

Whether you’re in bed, at your desk, or just about anywhere in your home, this modern lamp is sure to give you the perfect lighting angle. It has a strong clip-on base and a gooseneck that you can adjust in literally any direction. And with 10 brightness modes, you can use it for everything from crafting to relaxing. The price and color selection are sure to wow you as well.

A Car Vanity Mirror With Studio-Quality Features

Touching up your makeup on the road is about to get so much easier. This car visor mirror features 60 LEDs with adjustable brightness and color temperature modes for studio-quality illumination. Plus, its ultra-thin profile won’t interfere with your visor. Simply charge it before heading out to enjoy up to eight hours of continuous use.

A Heated Eyelash Curler That Won’t Pinch Or Tug

This heated eyelash curler is a must for achieving flawless results. It heats up in just 10 seconds and curls lashes in a flash. Equipped with liquid silicone technology, it’s both safe and pinch-free. Pack this surprisingly affordable beauty find along with the included USB charging cord to touch up your lashes on the go.

Tumber Straw Toppers That Are So Cute & Useful

These adorable silicone bow straw toppers snap snugly onto your straws, keeping debris out while adding a chic pop of color to your favorite cup. Plus, they’re made from food-grade silicone that’s dishwasher-safe for added convenience. And you’ll love the coffee-inspired hues in this eight-pack.

A Slim Makeup Brush Set For Taking On The Go

Packing your beauty essentials can be tricky, but this travel makeup brush set makes it easy. The compact case features a large mirror and five high-quality brushes for everything from applying blush to eyeshadow. And you’ll be genuinely shocked when you see just how budget-friendly it is.

Travel-Sized Sleep Sprays For Instant Zen

It’s a good thing that this set of Dr. Teal’s Sleep Spray includes three travel-sized bottles, because you’re going to want to keep one with you at all times (think your bedside, your weekender bag, and beyond). It features a blend of melatonin, lavender and chamomile essential oils for an instant calm feel.

Stylish Flat Hair Clips That Won’t Poke Your Head

These innovative hair clips are a huge upgrade from standard claws. They have a chic matte finish and come in upscale minimalist colors that are sure to match any outfit. And you’ll love the flat design that grips hair off all textures without scratching or poking.

A Foldable Charging Station That Doubles As A Stand

Streamline your nightstand and your travel gear with this magnetic charging station. This sleek, minimalist hub charges iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods all at once — and it folds flat so you can toss it right into your bag. It also doubles as a convenient stand for FaceTiming and streaming.

An Upscale Headphones Holder That Mounts With Adhesive

This headphones holder blends style with utility, making it a must for your workspace setup. It features a beautiful walnut wood cradle that’s designed to help preserve the shape of your tech, plus a modern matte black metal mount. It’s ultra affordable and even includes hardware and adhesive strips for mounting.

A Shower Steamer Tray For Longer-Lasting Fragrance

If you’re tired of watching your shower steamers melt down your drain, you’re going to want to grab this tray. It has a strong suction cup base that effortlessly and securely mounts to tile, keeping steamers off the floor. And you can adjust the cute, flower-shaped dial to control fragrances.

A Shower Hack For Drip-Free Dispensing Of All Your Essentials

Install this three-in-one soap dispenser in your shower to create a luxe hotel vibe. It has a sleek design that features three easy-fill chambers with smooth buttons for precision, drip-free dispensing. It also comes with waterproof labels so you can effortlessly identify shampoo, conditioner, and bodywash.

Mini Jewelry Boxes For Weekend Trips

These mini jewelry boxes are a must for weekend trips or day-to-night glow-ups. They have a soft lining and stretchy pockets for stashing rings, huggies, and more. And the exteriors feature high-quality faux leather in two upscale colors, plus gold-tone keychains for attaching them to your bags.

A Luxe Hooded Travel Pillow That Even Comes With An Eye Mask & Ear Plugs

Flights and car trips will never be the same once you try this luxe travel pillow. This sleek memory foam pillow offers 360-degree support and features a built-in, light-blocking hood. The breathable cover is ideal for long trips and can be removed and machine-washed for easy maintenance. The wallet-friendly set includes a storage bag, eyemask, and earplugs.

A Whimsical Cover For Your Charger

This charming charger protector is as pretty as it is practical. It features a stunning translucent floral design and is both flexible and heatproof, making it a must for protecting tech from damage. Choose from 10 pretty patterns, then simply slip the cable, adapter, and port protectors on.

A Shower Filter That’s Infused With Brightening Vitamin C

There’s an easy way to upgrade your daily routine that doesn’t involve overspending, either. Simply attach this shower filter to your existing hardware to remove impurities while infusing your hair and skin with a vitamin-C-rich gel. You’ll never want to shower without this upgrade ever again, so it’s a good thing it’s so affordable.

A Coffee Maker For The Perfect Cold Brew

Making your own morning beverage at home is less complicated than you might think, especially when you use this cold brew coffee maker. The reusable filter eliminates waste while creating the perfect sip with no bitter notes in just 12 to 24 hours, so you can even make it overnight. And you’re sure to appreciate that the entire thing is dishwasher-safe.

Colorful Toothbrush Holders That Are So Easy To Clean

Offered as a sleek four-pack, these little toothbrush holders look like colorful beads, but they’re actually made from durable, glazed ceramic. The open-air design allows for increased airflow, helping prevent mold for better hygiene. And unlike cup models, the compact holders are incredibly easy to wipe clean. Choose from rainbow and neutral hues.

A Glass Mouthwash Dispenser For A More Elegant Display

If you’re tired of bulky packaging and leaky messes, this reusable mouthwash dispenser is a must-buy. It’s crafted from thick, durable glass and features a stainless steel spout for precision pouring. You’ll love the stylish bamboo accent on the leakproof lid, and that it comes with a matching cup.

Ice Molds That Make Bougie Cubes

These ice molds are a bougie upgrade from basic cubes. The surprisingly inexpensive pack includes two molds — one featuring an abstract wavy pattern and the other a luxe diamond design. They come with a rigid tray for easy carrying, and the food-safe silicone molds make popping out the ice effortless.

]]><![CDATA[90 Bougie Things That Are Shockingly Under $25 on Amazon]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/bougie-things-that-are-shockingly-under-25-on-amazonhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/bougie-things-that-are-shockingly-under-25-on-amazonThu, 02 Jul 2026 22:44:34 GMT

Create the luxurious lifestyle you deserve by scooping up the extra-bougie products on this list: They all cost under $25 and ship straight to your doorstep via Amazon. There are new beauty finds, home upgrades, sparkly accessories, and so many more sumptuous products that only look pricey.

A Vegan Leather Bag That’s Practical & Polished

Leather bags are pricey, but this faux leather tote looks like the real thing (and the metal hardware elevates the design of it as well) — however, it costs under $25. It’s extra-large for work, travel, or errand runs, and there are various pockets for organization. It comes in six rich-looking shades in the listing.

The Prettiest Glass Mug With Real Dried Flowers

This is the bougiest coffee mug out there. It features two layers of borosilicate glass, and between them you’ll find the prettiest dried flowers for you to look at as you sip your latte, tea, or whatever other drink is your jam. You can even shake it (while empty) to rearrange them. Surprisingly, it’s dishwasher- and microwave-safe.

A Glass Soap Dispenser That Creates A Rich Foam

This gorgeous foaming dispenser turns everyday handwashing into a tiny luxury moment. The rippled green glass catches the light beautifully and the transparent body lets you keep an eye on soap levels. Just mix liquid soap with water for rich, cloud-like foam, and enjoy how this elegant piece instantly upgrades any bathroom or kitchen countertop.

A Quick-Dry Stone Mat For Your Faucet

This sleek diatomite faucet mat keeps your sink area looking tidy, absorbing splashes faster than you can say “why is everything always wet?” The stone surface is made to dry within minutes, while protecting your counter and doubling as a chic tray for soaps, cups, and sponges. The mat comes in five colors and several sizes.

A Mini Bluetooth Label Maker That Doesn’t Need Ink

This label maker is like a tiny executive assistant that lives in your pocket. The Bluetooth connection pairs easily with your phone, letting you print crisp, ink-free labels using over 90 fonts, tons of templates, and creative options like barcodes and QR codes. The device is lightweight, rechargeable, and perfect for labeling pantry goods, school supplies, office files, and everything else that needs a chic little tag.

A Flat Charger That Powers Up 4 Devices At Once

Turn any regular home outlet into a little charging hub with this slim charger. It has four USB-A charging ports, including one that is a 2.4A port for fast charging for your tablet or phone. Because it’s so flat, it doesn’t take up a lot of space and won’t get in the way of any furniture or appliances that might be near the outlet. It’s also lightweight and small enough to fit in your pocket, making it very travel friendly.

A Wedge Pillow Designed To Fill Mattress–Headboard Gaps

This wedge pillow is your bed’s bouncer — keeping your phone, snacks, and rogue AirPods from vanishing into the abyss between your headboard. It’s made from high-density foam to fit perfectly at the top of the mattress, and it even includes pockets for your late-night essentials. You can get it in several sizes and colors.

Trash Bag Storage Baskets That Look Super Chic

These stackable organizers turn chaotic trash-bag rolls into a satisfyingly tidy setup. The stainless steel baskets have bamboo lids and wide front openings to make it easy to pull out new bags or restock. Use the smaller one for standard 13-gallon rolls and the larger for bigger bag sizes — or even potatoes and onions. Place the baskets on the counter, under the sink, or mount them with the included adhesive.

A Colorful & Absorbent Nonslip Shower Mat

Make your shower experience more comfortable and safer by adding this absorbent shower mat. A nonslip bottom keeps it from moving around on the shower floor, while the absorbent material sops up water and dries quickly. This rainbow pattern is great for a pop of color in your bathroom, but it’s available in 17 other colors and prints, as well as nine different sizes.

A Dainty Necklace That Helps Deliver Inner Peace

Not only does this dainty pendant necklace finish off any ‘fit, but it’s also practical. Hold the stone between your index finger and thumb, then give the surface a rub (while taking deep breaths) to help feel calmer.

A Handcrafted Incense Burner That’s A Stunner

Handcrafted from ceramic (with a hand-painted floral design), this incense holder looks seriously stunning. And its weighted base, heat-resistant design, and built-in chimney mean it functions well for incense burning. All of the ash will be captured in the bottom, so it’s mess-free.

A Striped Coffee Mug With A Unique Divided Interior

This unique coffee mug has a divided interior, ideal for separating coffee from cream, tea from honey, or even holding a stirrer. It features a fun striped design, and since it’s made from ceramic, it’s chip-resistant and holds heat well.

A Vintage Beeswax Candle That Self-Extinguishes

Light this special candle, and as soon as the flame reaches the clip, it’ll extinguish on its own ... so you don’t have to remember to do so. It’s made from 100% beeswax with a vintage-inspired holder. And it’ll burn cleanly for up to 80 hours.

Crystal Suncatchers To Beautify Your Plant Pots

Add a touch of glam to your plant pots with these four crystal trellises that you stick in the soil. When the light hits the crystal prism, it’ll project a rainbow scene all around for a show. And what’s best is that each one costs just over two bucks.

Hanging Planters That Are Handwoven From Cotton

Hang your favorite plants in these hanging planters to bring some texture to the space. They’re handwoven from cotton by artisans — which adds to their overall charm — and they’re simple to put up using the included stainless steel hooks.

Glass Bud Vases To Finish Off Your Tablescape

Complete your tablescape with these glass bud vases that deliver some serious charm. Each of the five vases is slightly unique (with a different shape, size, and texture), yet they group well together. Stick a small flower or greenery in each one.

Whimsical Curtain Lights That Twinkle

With 79,000-plus five-star reviews, reviews adore this curtain light; fans call out its inviting warm glow (there are 300 LEDs in total) and how easy it is to control. Use the remote control to set the lights to eight different modes, like twinkle or steady on. This pick is waterproof and plugs into an outlet for power.

This Reusable Window Film That Looks Like Stained Glass

This window film gives your space that dreamy stained glass look without committing to actual stained glass — or its price tag. The floral-leaf pattern comes alive in sunlight, creating soft rainbow effects while still letting the room feel bright. It installs easily with the included tools, peels off cleanly, and can be reused whenever you’re in the mood to refresh your decor.

This Motion-Activated LED Strip For Nighttime Illumination

This motion-activated LED strip glows softly when you step out of bed, guiding you through dark rooms without jolting your eyes awake. The warm illumination only triggers when it senses movement, then shuts off automatically shortly after. With easy adhesive installation, the light strip adds hotel-level convenience to hallways, stairs, cabinets, and under-bed spaces.

A Gorgeous Glass Pitcher For Hot & Cold Drinks

Elevate your iced coffee, lemonade, or even just plain water by pouring it from this glass pitcher. It’s made from glass with a geometric design, and the golden handle and lid are stylish yet functional. This pick holds up to 68 ounces of any beverage in a chic design.

Peel-&-Stick Floor Tiles That Instantly Elevate Your Space

These peel-and-stick tiles give your floors the kind of hand-painted charm you’d expect from a boutique renovation — but without grout, tools, or budget worries. The vinyl finish is designed to look high-end, and the water-resistant surface wipes clean with ease. Each pack includes 10 tiles that assemble into a striking 60-by-24-inch layout, instantly refreshing kitchens, entryways, and more.

A Memory Foam Car Seat Cushion For Long-Distance Comfort

This car seat cushion makes it seem like you’re slipping into a much fancier vehicle, thanks to its cooling mesh top and heat-responsive memory foam cushioning. The 4.3-inch height boost improves visibility while driving, and the nonslip backing helps keep it in place. Make long drives comfier with this foam cushion.

A Rotating Organizer For Cosmetics, Perfumes, & Skin Care

This organizer gives your vanity that boutique-display feel, spinning smoothly 360 degrees to reveal perfumes, serums, brushes, and jewelry all in one place. The clear, easy-to-clean design and roomy compartments keep everything visible, while the sturdy build makes it great for bathrooms, bedrooms, and desks.

An Absorbent Coffee Mat That’ll Never Look Dirty

Position this coffee mat under your coffee machine or espresso maker to absorb inevitable spills and splashes (the diatomite stone material sucks up liquids instantly). And the best part? It will never look stained. There are various solids, patterns, and sizes available in the listing.

Heel Socks To Make Your Skin Smooth, Soft & Hydrated

Dry, cracked heels are no match for these moisturizing heel socks. They’re packed with nourishing essential oils, and the gel lining will lock in hydration for the long run. Wash them and reuse them over and over again as needed. The set includes two pairs.

A Set Of Gold-Plated Necklaces To Stack Or Separate

Whether you choose to wear these three necklaces stacked or apart, they’ll look high-end, finishing off any outfit. They’re made from brass (so they’re nickel-free, hypoallergenic, and tarnish-resistant) with a gold finish. Each necklace is a different style and length with extenders if needed.

The Coolest Lip Oil That Makes A Custom Shade

When you swipe this lip oil onto your lips, the formula reacts to your skin’s natural pH level, revealing a personalized pink shade. The oil has a luscious glossy finish that’s not sticky in the slightest, and it’s hydrating thanks to ingredients like apricot and jojoba oils.

Colorful Daisy Diffusers To Freshen Your Car’s Interior

Add style to your vehicle’s interior by positioning these vivid flower clips on the air vents. There is even a slot on the back to put a diffuser pad, which can fill the vehicle with your favorite essential oil scent. Six assorted colors of clips are included in the set for under $10.

A Sleek Stove Cover To Shield Against Stains & Scratches

Protect your glass or electric stovetop from spills, scratches, and stains by positioning this silicone cover on top — it’s easy on the eyes, too. The cover is heat resistant up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (so you can also use it as a trivet), and it’s dishwasher-friendly. It’s also available in black in the listing.

A Single Pair Of Earrings That Look Like 3 Hoops

These unique earrings fit in one piercing hole, but they actually give the illusion of three individual huggie hoops with varying designs — two have little crystals for some shine. The earrings are made from 14-karat-gold-plated brass, making them hypoallergenic.

Dry Shampoo Powder That Smells Like Lavender

This nonaerosol dry shampoo uses corn starch as a main ingredient to absorb oil and grease — it’s a gentler choice that’s environmentally friendly. It also boasts Korean ginseng for some serious volumizing power and biotin to strengthen your strands. The lavender scent is soothing and fresh.

Bougie Vehicle Hooks To Stop Your Bags From Toppling

Position these faux leather straps on your vehicle’s headrest, and use the hooks for storage — hang your purse, extra umbrellas, water bottles, and more from them. “I've had heavy grocery bags on these and no bending, no stress or wear showing, they still look brand new. Finally a functional item that adds a touch of class to your car interior,” wrote one commenter.

A Luxe-Look Rug That’s Is Super Durable

Whether you place it in your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or somewhere else, this doormat will freshen up any space. It has a low profile to not impede doors, and the woven polyester material means you can easily wash this with a hose outside, so it’ll always look pristine. It comes in green, brown, maroon, and black (as well as seven sizes) in the listing.

A Cult-Fave Lip Liner & Filler For Only $4

A lip liner and filler in one, this pick allows you to sculpt, define, and add dimension to your lips. And it costs just $4, so you really can’t pass on it. It has a triangular tip to create precise lines and a wider side for more coverage. The finish is smooth and semimatte. It comes in seven shades in the listing.

A Faux Suede Bath Mat That Feels So Luxurious

Made from faux suede, this bath mat is probably unlike any others you’ve felt — in the best of ways. It’s soft and smooth, doesn’t get pilled, and absorbs water and dries quickly. Plus, the rubber backing ensures it doesn’t slide around, even when wet.

Stylish Reusable Dishcloths To Replace Paper Towels

Save the earth — and your wallet — by making the switch to these Swedish dishcloths that are reusable. They’re created from a blend of cotton and biodegradable cellulose wood pulp, and they’re absorbent, fast-drying, and durable. “The most absorbent little [squares] for kitchen and bath countertops, spills, mirrors. [...] I almost never use paper towels any more,” wrote one commenter. They come in rich solids and stylish patterns in the listing.

A Sage & White Pine Room Spray That Smells Divine

A nice-smelling home is a luxury that can be yours with this room spray. Spritz the fine mist into the air, and the sage and white pine scent will immediately fill the space. With standard use, the bottle will last around three months. Other scents available in the listing include blood orange, tobacco vanilla, and more.

A Wax Melt Warmer That Creates A Luxe Fireplace Glow

This wax melt warmer looks like a tiny designer fireplace, giving your space that moody, upscale glow without spending a fortune or dealing with real flames. The heating plate is designed to melt wax evenly, while the different lighting settings let you get the exact vibe you want. It also has three auto-timer options.

Flameless Pillar Candles For Major Ambiance

Make the switch to these battery-powered candles that honestly look the real thing; they feature a flickering “flame” for a romantic touch, plus a wax-like design. Use the included remote controls to tweak the settings like the brightness or set them on a timer, too. Five come in the set.

Solar Garden Lights To Decorate Your Exterior

“It looks so elegant in the flower bed and gives off a warm, glowing effect at night that instantly brightens up the garden,” wrote one reviewer about these solar lights that you can position in your garden, along your walkway, or other outdoor areas. They’ll turn on and off automatically, and the waterproof design means you can keep them out year-round.

Soap Papers For Washing Your Hands On The Go

These cleverly designed soap sheets are perfect for traveling, commuting, or just going on an all-day outing. Each small sheet is full of a soap that lightly lathers once you add a few drops of water. You don’t even need a sink — you can use water from a water bottle if necessary. These come in three different refreshing scents and are a breeze to take just about anywhere.

A Bedside Lamp That Also Charges Your Phone

Add some soft lighting to the space near your bed with this table lamp. A simple design means it will work with just about any decor, and it offers three different brightness levels with easy touch control. As a bonus, it has USB-A and USB-C ports for conveniently powering up your devices without reaching for a wall outlet.

Aromatherapy Steamers For Peak Relaxation In The Shower

To rejuvenate in the morning or unwind after a long day, add one of these aromatherapy steamers to your shower (out of the direct stream of water). They’ll release various scents — like eucalyptus, jasmine tea, citrus, and more — and eight of them are included, making each one just over $1.

A Weighted Sleep Mask That Blocks Out 100% Of Light

The 3D contoured shape, weighted design, and adjustable strap combine to make this eye mask the ultimate sleep accessory. “Wow, if you want super dark without any light and a cool, comfortable fit on your face - look no further,” wrote one fan who goes on to call this pick the “BEST SLEEP MASK EVER.”

This Slim Toaster That Doesn’t Take Up Much Room

This slim toaster brings boutique-kitchen energy without hogging counter space, thanks to its 4.6-inch width and extra-long 10-inch slot. It handles everything from artisan bread to bagels, while seven shade settings help you dial in the exact toastiness you’re craving. And the high-lift lever rescues smaller slices without you burning your fingers.

A Jute Tote For The Beach, Errand Runs & More

Whether you’re headed to the office, beach, farmer’s market, or just on an errand run, take this jute tote along with you. It’s the perfect size, super sturdy (with a reinforced bottom), and easy to carry thanks to its rounded handles. Use the interior zippered pocket to keep valuables secure.

A Stainless Steel Spoon Set In A Bougie Swan Holder

Pull out these small spoons at your next dinner party or even just for dessert time ... they’re perfect for scooping up ice cream, stirring coffee or tea, tasting appetizers, and more. The 12 spoons are made from durable stainless steel, and they come in an elegant swan holder to add to the bougie factor.

An Eye Balm That Helps Hydrate & Brighten Skin

This sleek retinol eye stick brings spa-energy to your skin-care routine. It’s a glide-on balm that aims to brighten and hydrate the delicate under-eye area. The formula is designed to work over four to eight weeks as it helps boost skin moisture levels. The balm is incredibly easy to use anytime — no fuss, no drips, just a clean swipe that’s surprisingly bougie for the price.

A Compact Steamer To Quickly Smooth Out Clothing

This handheld steamer will quickly become a travel favorite. At just two pounds, it’s easy to stow this in any carry-on bag or suitcase. It also works really well: this can be used on a variety of materials to smooth out wrinkles and leave clothing looking good as new. It heats up in 30 seconds and can last for up to 15 minutes before the water tank needs to be refilled.

Pretty Press-On Nails That’ll Last For Weeks

Skip the pricey salon and use these square press-on nails for the perfect (and far cheaper) manicure. The acrylic nails have a gel-like feel and finish that’s durable enough to last for two weeks or longer. Included are 16 nail sizes to ensure a good fit.

A Space-Saving Egg Drawer That Looks Sleeker

Ditch the cardboard carton your eggs came in and transfer them into this fridge drawer that attaches right onto a shelf. It holds up to 21 eggs (depending on size), and it’s easy to pull the drawer out come breakfast time. The whole thing looks sleek and saves space.

Adorable Keychain That Can House Your AirTag

This bright leather keychain looks decorative but doubles as a case for your AirTag or other similar tracking devices. It can be clipped onto your keys or a bag so that your AirTag stays put, and the colorful persimmon design is just fun to look at. It’s also available in a wide variety of other patterns, like a strawberry, watermelon, or peach.

A Compact Makeup Case With Storage, A Mirror & Light

For doing your makeup while traveling or just on the go, this faux leather case is perfection. It has a built-in mirror with lights (which can be set to cool, natural, or warm) so you can see what you’re doing, and the four compartments are ideal for stashing your top products. The light lasts up to a week on a full charge. It comes in four colors in the listing.

Caged Pearl Earrings At A Shockingly Low Price Point

It’s shocking that these pearl studs cost under $15 — they’re stunning. The pearl is encased in a caged, 18-karat gold-plated frame to shine. The studs are nickel-free and hypoallergenic, so even those with sensitive ears can wear them comfortably.

A Sleek Light-Up 4-Vase Set For Plant Propagation

Use the four separate planters in this glass terrarium set for your propagation efforts or for just smaller greenery. A built-in rechargeable grow light helps ensure your plants grow well — plus it looks cool.

A Compact Facial Hair Remover For On-The-Go Grooming

This discreet little facial hair remover looks like a chic lipstick but works like a smooth-gliding detailer for upper lip, chin, cheeks, and more. The hypoallergenic rounded blades are designed to safely trim, giving you an irritation-free finish in seconds. The device is USB-rechargeable and comes with a cleaning brush to keep it ready to go.

A Teeth-Whitening Pen With 7,000+ 5-Star Reviews

With 9% hydrogen peroxide, this teeth-whitening pen offers professional-level whitening — your smile will be positively bright. This pick is gentle on enamel and produces minimal sensitivity. Use it one to two times per day for best results.

Disposable Teeth Wipes For Freshening Up Anywhere

Keep these disposable teeth wipes in your bag at all times. The textured cleaning surface helps swipe away bacteria and anything else that has built up on your teeth, while the refreshing minty scent leaves your breath smelling great. There’s no need for water or a sink, and a small sleeve for your finger makes them so easy to use. “I keep them in my purse and use them in a pinch when I can't brush,” one happy shopper wrote in a review. “Great for on the go events such as ball games and festivals!”

A Sleek Incense Holder That’ll Contain The Ash

When you burn incense, do so in this chic glass holder that’ll minimize the mess. “I burn incense nearly everyday and I was tired of cleaning the ashes that would go everywhere. Now they collect neatly in the glass jar,” wrote one fan. This pick boasts a pair of metal support rods that can hold two sticks at once.

This Contoured Pillow For Side & Back Sleepers

This memory foam lumbar pillow is such an upgrade for your lower back. The slow-rebound core gently fills the gap between your back and the mattress at night, giving side and back sleepers more support. The breathable cover zips off for washing, and the pillow’s ergonomic shape works under knees, legs, or feet, too.

Window Film For A Stained Glass Effect

Beautify your windows with this trim-to-fit 3D film that gives the illusion of colorful stained glass. In addition to its decorative effect, the window film is also functional — it blocks out harmful UV rays (which protects you, but also your belongings) and offers privacy without sacrificing the natural light shining through. Choose from a few patterns and rolls sizes in the listing.

A Circular Vanity Mirror With A Built-In Light

Bring a practical yet glamorous touch to your vanity or bathroom counters with the addition of this 12-inch round mirror. It has a built-in light — which can be set to a range of color temperatures and brightness levels — an aluminum frame, and a sturdy base. Rotate it 360 degrees for doing your makeup or tweezing your brows at any angle.

Braided Apple Watch Bands For Quick Style Changes

Change up the look of your Apple Watch almost instantly with this silicone band set, which comes with four braided bands in different colors. They’re compatible with many series of the device, and the band itself is adjustable in length to fit most wearers comfortably. Various sets are up for grabs in the listing.

Magnetic Clasps That Make Jewelry Easier To Put On

Whoever invented the teeny tiny clasps you find on most necklaces and bracelets didn’t really think things through. If you struggle to get them on everyday, add these magnetic clasps to your favorite pieces. The two parts attract together, making it so much more simple to put your jewelry on — no more straining to see the clasp or fiddling with a tiny lobster claw. These come in a pack of six and are easy to get on and off and reuse.

Cylindrical Tissue Boxes That Fit In Standard Cupholders

These cylindrical tissue boxes are designed to fit perfectly in your vehicle’s cupholder so you have one by your side as you ride. The set includes four floral tissue boxes — because you might as well have something that’s practical and pretty — and each one has 50 tissues inside.

A Makeup Bag That Opens All The Way

This makeup bag unzips all the way using dual zippers — the wide opening makes it much easier to spot the products you need for your look. Plus, there are various pockets inside to help on the organization front. The bag is made from a water-resistant quilted fabric with a convenient carrying handle. It comes in 10 colors in the listing.

An Ultra-Plush Bath Rug That’s Machine-Washable

This bath rug is proof that bougie and budget-friendly can exist in the same universe. This pick features the softest, thickest chenille pile, and yet it costs under $10. It’s machine washable to stay in tip-top shape. Pick from various solid colors, sizes, and shapes via the listing.

A Dimmable Candle Warmer Lamp For Flame-Free Fragrance

This candle warmer lamp gives your space boutique-hotel glow with zero flames, smoke, or stress. The dimmer dial helps control both scent strength and candle longevity, while the timer means you don’t have to remember to turn it off. The wooden base and metal arm look beautifully sculpted, and the adjustable height means it works with nearly any jar candle.

An Electric Lunch Box That Heats Your Food Up

This electric lunch box feels like the bougie upgrade every commuter deserves. Plug it in at home, at work, or in the car, and enjoy a hot meal without hunting down a microwave. The 1.5-liter stainless steel container lifts out for easy cleaning, and the leak-resistant lid helps keep saucy meals secure.

A Glass Essential Oil Diffuser That Also Serves As Decor

This glass essential oil diffuser looks like a decor piece in itself. But it’s also practical — fill it with your favorite scent to spread it through the air. It can be set to seven colors (or even cycle through them all), and there’s a timer function for auto-off after 30 minutes, one hour, or two hours.

Hydrating Lip Balm Available In An Array Of Pinks

Made with hydrating ingredients like manuka honey, this lip balm leaves your lips feeling moisturized and looking glossy. The simple applicator makes it easy to apply on the go, even without a mirror, and it delivers a nice swipe of color without being too bold. One shopper called it a “dream” in a review, saying, “Creamy texture and shines like crazy! Using this makes me feel polished and elevates my makeup and outfits for sure! Love love love!”

Chic Press-On Nails Made From Soft Gel

These soft gel press-ons look like the kind of minimalist manicure you’d pay salon prices for, except they take five minutes and cost basically nothing. Each nail is built with real gel layers — base, color, topcoat — so the finish is smooth. The nails are designed to flex comfortably on the nail bed, stay secure for daily tasks, and come with everything you need to put them on.

Vibrant Markers With Dual Tips For Ultimate Creativity

Each of these vibrant markers has a dual tip — including a fineliner point and a brush-style one — allowing you to unleash your inner creativity as you color, journal, or even just jot down your to-do list. The set comes with 60 colors, each featuring water-based, no-bleed ink.

A Retractable Car Charger With Four Charging Ports

This retractable car charger feels like the kind of thoughtful, bougie upgrade every vehicle needs. The power system charges up to four devices at once, and the retractable cables extends over 2.5 feet to reach passengers in the back seat. And the 180-degree rotating plug and shockproof build keep the charger steady on bumpy roads.

A Clear Mat That Protects Your Desk In A Minimalist Way

This transparent desk mat gives your workspace a polished, clutter-free look while keeping your tabletop protected from scratches, spills, and daily wear. The clear PVC lets your desk’s natural finish (or your favorite photos tucked underneath) shine through, and the heat-resistant surface is smooth enough for writing or drawing. It wipes clean in seconds and stays put with a nonslip grip, making any desk space feel instantly more intentional.

Self-Heating Steam Eye Masks With A Lavender Scent

These self-heating steam eye masks give you a mini spa session at home. The masks are designed to warm gently for up to an hour to help relax tired eyes. Each mask activates automatically, no water or prep needed, making it the bougie bedtime ritual you’ll wonder how you lived without. And the lavender scent is a nice bonus.

Magnetic Clasps That Make Putting On Jewelry Easier

These magnetic necklace clasps make your jewelry routine feel instantly more polished and effortless. Each lightweight closure snaps securely together, so your necklaces and bracelets stay put without fiddling with tiny lobster claws. The set includes 12 pieces in multiple styles, all hypoallergenic and designed to be gentle on sensitive skin.

Moody Contact Paper To Update Almost Any Surface

With its moody botanical print, this contact paper is perfect for updating walls, furniture, or really any other surface you’re not in love with. The self-adhesive backing makes it simple to install (there’s a grid on the back to ensure it's straight), and it’s thick and durable to last.

Cute Bow Clips Designed For All Hair Types

These glossy bow claw clips add instant sweetness to any hairstyle, opening 180 degrees to grip everything from thick curls to fine strands. They’re perfect for everyday styling, weddings, and parties. You get four in the set, so you could share with a friend or family member, and they come in a ton of colors.

A Compact Jewelry Box That You Can Take Anywhere

This tiny vintage jewelry box looks like a chic little coin purse, but inside it neatly stores rings, earrings, and delicate necklaces. The soft leather exterior is made to feel luxe, and the gold kiss-lock gives it old-world charm. At just around 2 inches, it slips into any handbag or carry-on, keeping your favorite items safe while traveling.

Memory Foam Kitchen Mats That Are Oh-So Comfy

These floral kitchen mats are made from thick, cushioned memory foam, which makes washing the dishes, cooking dinner, or performing other kitchen tasks more comfortable overall. The surface is 100% waterproof for quick wiping, and the nonslip backing ensures they stay put.

The Prettiest Table Runner Adorned With Colorful Wildflowers

Adorned with a variety of colorful wildflowers, this table runner couldn’t be prettier. The 100% polyester material is soft yet durable, and the 120-inch length means it’ll work for almost any dining room table setup.

Stained Glass Cacti To Display Indoors Or Out

These hand-painted cacti are made from vibrant stained glass — they look extra cool when the sunlight hits them. Stick the three cacti in a pot or planter (indoors or out) to complete the whole vibe.

Bougie Curtain Tiebacks To Let In Natural Light

With their ornate golden design and little crystals, these curtain tiebacks are the bougiest way to keep your curtains open, letting in natural light. They’re made from durable plastic and are simple to put up.

A Puffy Laptop Case That’ll Protect Your Device

With its puffy exterior, foam padding, and fleece lining, this laptop case will surely keep your computer protected en route to the office. And the built-in, padded handle ensures it's comfy to carry. There are bonus pockets to stash your mouse, earbuds, and charger.

Embroidered Leaf Curtains With A Linen-Like Feel

These sheer curtains are the perfect finishing touch for your living room, bedroom, or another space. They boast a lightweight, linen-like texture, and they’re embroidered with leaves.

A Powerful Bluetooth Speaker Shaped Like A Cute Cup

This Bluetooth speaker looks like a cute cup, but it actually pairs with your phone (or another similar device) to blast your favorite tunes. The sound it puts out is shockingly clear, and the waterproof design means you can enjoy it anywhere.

An Arched Wood Shelf With Mid-Century Modern Vibes

This arched shelf has a mid-century modern aesthetic to it, and its two tiers can be used to display plants, artwork, or even tchotchkes. It’s made from thick wood for durability’s sake, and it mounts on the wall using the included nails.

An Adorable Bow Vase For Just $15

Yes, this low-cost bow vase is perfect for fresh flowers. But it can also be used for storage — stash your makeup brushes, office supplies, toothbrushes, or other items in it. It’s made from ceramic with a glazed, shiny finish.

A Food Block Maker For Better Storage In The Freezer

Create uniform chunks of frozen food via this block maker — this makes everything far easier to store. The block maker fits a gallon-sized plastic bag, and it can be filled with up to six cups' worth of leftovers, soup, meal-prepped items, and more.

]]><![CDATA[“My Husband Gives Me The Ick” & 50 Other Mom Confessions]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/husband-gives-me-the-ick-mom-confessionshttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/husband-gives-me-the-ick-mom-confessionsThu, 02 Jul 2026 21:37:18 GMT
MoMo Productions/Getty Images

Ever have that one thought on your mind that you just can’t seem to shake? Maybe you’ve never said it out loud. Maybe admitting it makes you feel a little guilty. But no matter how hard you try to push it aside, you know it’s there to stay.

The good news? You’re not alone. Everyone has something they’re thinking about — whether it be good, bad, or uncomfortable to come to terms with. Sometimes, all it takes is to hear someone else say the quiet part out loud to realize you were never alone all along. That’s where Scary Mommy Confessions come in (my favorite part of the week). It’s your time to finally let free and get that stubborn thought off your chest... or sit back, read other people’s stubborn thoughts, and realize everyone’s winging it one way or another, no matter how put together they may seem.

So take a breath and relax for a minute as you scroll through this week’s confessions. Some will make you laugh, others will hit a little too close to home, and all of them are proof that none of us are really alone in what we have going on up in our minds.

Scary Mommy Confessions are a tried-and-true part of what makes our site so fun. If you want to anonymously confess, look for our weekly callouts on Instagram. And to browse past Confessions, take a look here.

]]><![CDATA[Are You A “Type C” Personality? How To Tell, According To Therapists]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/type-c-personalityhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/type-c-personalityThu, 02 Jul 2026 21:15:50 GMT
Kathrin Ziegler/Getty Images

Most people know what a type A personality is: someone who’s incredibly ambitious, organized, and driven to succeed. Perhaps just as well-known is the type B personality, which refers to someone who’s a bit more laid-back, patient, and creative. But why did the alphabet stop there? What about a type C personality? Is that a thing? And, if so, what are they like? Well, here's a quick snapshot for you: If you have someone in your life who tends to be introverted, is an overthinker, and has trouble revealing their emotions, they’re probably a type C.

“Type C personalities are usually keen on details, logical, and very strict about following rules and regulations. They have the tendency to suppress their emotions by emphasizing more on rationale and procedures rather than self-expression,” said Sean O’Neill, a licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical director at Maple Moon Recovery, in an interview with Scary Mommy.

If that sounds familiar, here’s what you need to know about this personality type, some of their common strengths and weaknesses, and how being a type C can affect parenting.

What is a type C personality?

In Psychology Today, Susan Krauss Whitbourne, Ph.D., defines a type C personality as a “conscientious” individual who is concerned with accuracy and quality. So basically, someone who wants to get it done right every single time.

Of course, having a type C personality is more than simply lacking the traits of As or Bs. In fact, a type C personality seems to embody characteristics of both. Like type A, type C personalities can be hardworking and controlling and are often perfectionists. However, they are more submissive than your typical type As. Like type B personalities, type Cs are more likely to cooperate with those around them.

People with type C personalities are often:

  • Analytical
  • Calm
  • Conflict-averse
  • Consistent
  • Controlled
  • Cooperative
  • Creative
  • Detail-driven
  • Focused
  • Introverted
  • Thoughtful

“Type C people work best in controlled environments that value precision and careful planning, but may have trouble with adaptability or emotional accessibility,” O’Neill said.

Due to these traits, type Cs can struggle with change. They can become so overwhelmed with the details of life, including the need to understand the logistics of everything, that they often have difficulty taking action and initiating anything new. They may also struggle to communicate their feelings and err on the side of people-pleasing. They tend to waver when making a decision and would rather agree with someone than take a potentially risky stance on something.

Wondering whether or not you’re a type C personality? Ask yourself:

  • Do you take your time to think things through when making decisions?
  • Do you use a deliberate, methodical approach when solving problems?
  • Are you comfortable analyzing large amounts of information?
  • Do you prefer solitary activities?
  • Do you struggle with sharing your feelings?
  • Are you always super serious at work?
  • Do you consider yourself a perfectionist?
  • Do you take a long time to make a decision?
  • Do you frequently have the urge to criticize someone when they’re doing something wrong?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, you might just be a type C.

What does type C parenting look like?

While every family is unique, type C parents certainly exhibit some traits common to their personality type.

“As parents, type C personality types tend to be more controlling and have perfectionist tendencies; therefore, they expect that from their kids,” said Reena B. Patel, a parenting expert, guidance counselor, licensed educational psychologist, and board-certified behavior analyst.

Patel continues, “Since they are consistent, they may have difficulties adjusting to unwanted change and like to stick to routines. They can be really great parents at supporting their kids’ development since they are extra sensitive to the needs of others and typically can respond to situations in a calm manner. They are interested, focused, thoughtful, and intentional, which makes them really present parents who give their kids much-needed time and attention.”

How can you embrace your personality type?

No matter what your personality type is, there are always ways to grow and take advantage of some of your inherent traits. Even some of the more negative sounding ones (“Do you frequently have the urge to criticize someone?” hit too close to home...) might be coming from a good place. Here are some wonderful things about type C people:

  • You are an excellent peacemaker. You don’t like to ruffle feathers and find it easy to get along with most groups of people.
  • You like to get things right. Just remember — while being diligent is an excellent asset, it’s important to understand that there are different ways to approach problems, and others’ strategies can be just as good as yours.
  • You’re dedicated to what you do. You’re detail-oriented but never lose sight of the broader end result, and you will do whatever it takes to get the job done right.
  • You’re independent and perfectly happy doing things alone, but remember that no one’s an island. Reach out to those around you for support and advice.

So, do you do, type Cs! But if you find yourself falling into some of the classic type C traps and getting caught in the consequences, consider reaching out to a therapist to help you break some of those patterns and become your best self.

]]><![CDATA[10 Easy Meals To Make When Nothing Sounds Good]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/easy-meals-to-make-when-nothing-sounds-goodhttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/easy-meals-to-make-when-nothing-sounds-goodThu, 02 Jul 2026 21:13:48 GMT
Family Fresh Meals

Honestly, it’s a rare night when what you’re making for dinner sounds good to everyone in the house. You can’t please everyone, as they say. But what about those nights when nothing sounds good to anyone, but unfortunately you all still have to eat? Every family needs to know some easy meals to make when nothing sounds good — the quick naan bread pizzas everyone can customize to their liking or the big sheet pan of nachos that are fast, easy, and cheesy, if nothing else. On those nights when no dish sounds like the dish for our family, we try to focus on something that’s at least easy or affordable instead. And honestly, something with plenty of cheese will get even the most reluctant eaters around the table.

Charcuterie For The Whole Family

Dude That Cooks

If absolutely nothing sounds good anyway, why would I cook? Guess what, family: We’re having girl dinner (a massive charcuterie board, a la Dude That Cookz). Throw together a big mish-mash of cheeses, meats, fruits, veggies, and chips you’ve been needing to clear out of the fridge and call it good (because it is good).

Chicken Alfredo Bake

Princess Pinky Girl

Carbs and cheese sound good even when nothing else does; personally, I lean into comfort food on nights everything sounds bad. Princess Pinky Girl’s chicken alfredo bake takes 30 minutes to throw together and get on the table. Throw some Texas Toast in the oven along with it, and I promise everyone will enjoy this dinner they thought they didn’t want.

BLTs

Foodie Crush

Like cheese, bacon is one of those foods that can make people say “OK, yeah, that sounds kinda good.” Foodie Crush can teach you how to make the most satisfying, diner-quality BLT. Serve it with potato chips and fruit, because no, BLTs are not just a lunch food. Bonus points: They require literally five ingredients.

Sheet Pan Nachos

Damn Delicious

Damn Delicious’ sheet pan nachos are a perfect example of the recipe. Just brown up some ground beef, lay down some chips, and prep the toppings of your choice. My favorite part of making sheet pan nachos — other than how little effort they require — is that we can all just eat them straight off the pan, which means very few dirty dishes waiting for me at the end of the night.

Seven-Layer Dip

All The Healthy Things

Beans, cheese, lots of veggie layers — yes, I’d say All The Healthy Things’ seven-layer dip is a nutritionally complete meal (I am not a nutritionist). Having a few dips for dinner is an easy and fun way to get everyone to sit around the table and fill their bellies when they were groaning at the idea 30 minutes prior.

Breakfast Pizza

Family Fresh Meals

Sometimes when nothing sounds good for dinner, it’s because you’re running through a mental list of recipes you’ve been eating on repeat forever — you’re just sick of the usuals. Throw in a wild card, like this breakfast pizza from Family Fresh Meals. It’s easy, unexpected, and ready in half an hour.

Southwestern Egg Rolls

Averie Cooks

Sometimes nothing sounds good because you’re craving one specific dish from your favorite restaurant. So, make that! For example, Averie Cooks has a banging copycat recipe to make your own southwestern egg rolls a la Chili’s. It’ll satisfy the craving and save you money to DIY ‘em, honestly.

Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Princess Pinky Girl

When I can’t fathom roasting another sheet pan full of vegetables and the idea of turning chicken breasts into yet another high-protein recipe makes me want to weep, I just make enchiladas instead. Tortillas and a can of enchilada sauce are easy pantry staples to keep around. Princess Pinky Girl’s recipe is easy and cheesy and sure to please the whole fam.

Kimchi Fried Rice

Damn Delicious

Whether it sounds good at first or not, Damn Delicious’ kimchi fried rice is going to hit once you take that first bite. It’s loaded with flavor and ready faster than takeout could even get to your house, so a win on all fronts.

Ham & Cheese Sliders

Budget Bytes

Again I say unto thee: Sandwiches with chips and fruit are a good dinner too! Budget Bytes’ ham and cheese sliders are perfect if you have a slab of Hawaiian rolls sitting in the pantry and some sammich supplies in the fridge. They’re just the right amount of effort and cheese to feel worth it on a night when nothing really gets you excited to cook.

May one of these recipes haul you out of the “nothing sounds good” rut.

]]><![CDATA[Why Do I Wake Up Anxious For No Reason? Psychologists Explain]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/why-do-i-wake-up-anxious-for-no-reason-every-morninghttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/why-do-i-wake-up-anxious-for-no-reason-every-morningThu, 02 Jul 2026 15:59:49 GMT
SanyaSM/E+/Getty Images

You know that feeling when you just open your eyes after a night’s rest and immediately get knocked in the face with a sense of extreme dread and impending doom? It’s almost like being trapped in a never-ending state of fight-or-flight. Your stomach is in knots, your hands are tingling, your heart is racing, and you feel overwhelmingly nauseous. The day hasn’t even started yet but somehow it feels like you already have the weight of the world on your shoulders. Chances are you’ve wondered, “Why do I wake up anxious for no reason?” Well, there’s a name for it: morning anxiety.

Morning anxiety is no joke, and it’s not uncommon either. Whether the problem stems from everyday work and life stress or an anxiety disorder, millions of people go through it every day — so you’re not alone. Waking up anxious can happen for many reasons, and there are steps you can take to figure out what’s going on in your body, and how you can manage these overwhelming feelings.

Why do I wake up anxious for no reason?

For starters, a little bit of anxiety in the morning could be biologically normal for you. It’s when our cortisol is naturally highest, experts say.

“Part of [morning anxiety] is biological, because as you come out of a sleep cycle, your body releases cortisol to help you wake up … and by the time you do wake up, it’s at its highest,” says Bryant Williams, Ph.D, a licensed clinical psychologist. “And you experience this as physiological arousal, but interpret it as anxiety. Physically, it could be the same as getting prepared for your day. Like, if you have a lot of work to do that day, you're going to be in the mindset to perform well. But then you can psychologically interpret that as, ‘What if I fail?’ and start feeling anxious.”

Cortisol is a key hormone that plays a vital function in the body — it’s essentially the body’s alarm clock, helping you wake up every morning. While it may not be possible to control your body’s natural release of cortisol, what you can control is how you respond to it.

“Part of it is starting to notice the narrative, or the internal story you’re telling yourself about the day,” Williams said. “There’s the physical component that’s not going to change, but what can is the story you tell yourself everyday.”

If you’re waking up more anxious than usual and something about it feels off, however, it’s worth it to tell your doctor. They can help you check for any underlying health conditions that may be causing it.

“The cause could be physiological or biological, so to start, get your thyroid checked,” says Rachel Proujansky, Psy.D, a licensed clinical psychologist. “Or it could be from transient stressors, such as having a tough time at work or at home. It could even be an anxiety disorder, which is just chronically being in a hyper-aroused state.”

Moms probably don’t have to think too hard about their sources of stress, which can feel amplified if you’re in the postpartum period, perimenopause, or menopause. Then it’s not just that you’re dealing with balancing parenting, work, and an endless stream of responsibilities, but also the physiological changes and hormonal shifts that accompany these major life transitions — potentially leaving you even more anxious than before.

“During perimenopause or menopause, women go through immense biological and physiological changes,” Proujansky said. “These can certainly lead to increased anxiety, even when your day hasn’t even started yet. And apart from the biological and hormonal pieces, there’s the societal expectations and pressures put on mothers too.”

Habits To Help You Reduce Morning Anxiety

Motherhood can look like waking up at 4 a.m., packing lunches, waiting 30 minutes in the school drop-off line, cleaning the entire house, cooking meals, and juggling an endless list responsibilities. Lack of sleep and heavy reliance on caffeine have become the norm in many households, but to no one’s surprise, are also key contributing factors to morning anxiety.

“There are all sorts of habits that make anxiety worse,” Williams said. “In terms of sleep hygiene, [what’s important is] not having caffeine in the afternoon or not having screen time an hour before you go to bed. These are both components to being able to get a good night’s sleep, and also have a regular influx of the hormones that are part of the sleep cycle.”

Many moms are diligent about strictly limiting screen time for their children, but admittedly we don’t always apply the same rules for ourselves. Whether it be scrolling endlessly on Instagram Reels after a long day or rolling over and grabbing your phone the second you wake up, both habits can make morning anxiety a heck of a lot worse.

“When people wake up and the first thing they do is grab their phone, they notice what emails or notifications they have, and can already start getting anxious about that,” Williams explained. “If people don’t immediately look at their phone and instead go open the shades, let the sunlight hit their face, take a shower, and ease into the day, then they’ll probably feel less anxious,” said Williams.

When should you ask for help?

Most therapists will tell you that when your mental health begins affecting your quality of life or ability to function, it’s time to seek help. If you’re dreading the mornings, struggling to get out of bed, or calling out of work, say something.

“In this era of hyper-independence, being able to do it all, is actually something really unrealistic. If we can understand that we are a social species, then it’s okay to be interdependent and rely on other people,” Proujansky shared.

It also never hurts to seek out support groups and connect with other moms who can relate and empathize, as they’ve probably experienced many of the same feelings. After all, anxiety is incredibly common, affecting approximately 40 million adults in the U.S. alone, according to the World Health Organization. Whether it be through group therapy sessions or online support groups, there are always people out there who are ready to remind you that you’re not alone.

“I think we’re expected as women and moms to deal with everything all on our own,” Proujansky said. “But it’s good to find folks who can relate. We always feel our best with social support. So, if there are people you can talk to who understand you, they can just say, ‘I totally get it, it’s super hard, you’re doing great.’”

]]><![CDATA[11 Underrated Shows You Can Actually Finish In A Weekend]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/underrated-shows-weekend-bingehttps://www.scarymommy.com/entertainment/underrated-shows-weekend-bingeThu, 02 Jul 2026 00:01:38 GMT
Binge/CBS Studios

There should be a special name for the kind of decision paralysis that hits when you finally actually have time to yourself and total dominion over the TV. Windows like this don’t come around often when you’re a mom, so you want to make the most of it… but with so many streaming options, it’s very easy to wind up scrolling so long you lose your will to watch anything. The fix? A curated list of shows short enough to binge in one weekend.

If you take your troubles to social media, friends and family will inevitably recommend series that are seven seasons deep, and that requires more emotional commitment than you have to offer. You cannot promise the woman you are next weekend will want to tap back in and finish what you started.

So, every pick on this list clocks in somewhere between “one ambitious Saturday” and a tidy full-weekend watch. And since they’re also genuinely (and in some cases, criminally) underrated, the algo probably hasn’t force-fed them to you yet. Start on a Friday, finish on a Sunday, bing bang boom.

Colin From Accounts (Paramount+)

This Australian rom-com follows two strangers whose lives are thrown together after an incident involving a flashed boob and hitting a stray dog. Yep. It’s wacky, but it’s wonderful. If you love Aussie humor, you’ll adore this. Plus, it was created by and stars real-life husband-and-wife Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer, so their on-screen chemistry is fantastic.

The commitment: 2 seasons (with a third dropping July 27), 8 episodes each, ~3.5 hours per season

Somebody Somewhere (HBO Max)

Bridget Everett is SO good in this dramedy about a cynical woman who returns to her Kansas hometown following the death of her sister. She’s always felt like an outsider there, but she ultimately finds community when she least expects it. It’s honestly such a heartfelt journey, so it’s criminal that the show — which holds a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes — got canceled after its third season.

The commitment: 3 seasons, 7 episodes each, ~3.5 hours per season

Deadloch (Prime Video)

It took me a minute to get into this Aussie crime comedy series, but it wasn’t long until I was totally hooked. Set in a small Tasmanian town, it sees two wildly mismatched female detectives investigating murders. You wouldn’t think a crime show would be this funny, and yet it is. You’ll fall in love with Kate Box and Madeleine Sami as odd-pair Dulcie and Eddie. Oh, and Season 2 has “the other Hemsworth brother,” Luke!

The commitment: 2 seasons (so far), 8 episodes + 6 episodes, ~13 hours total

We Are Lady Parts (Peacock)

I don’t even know how I stumbled upon this, because you hardly ever hear anyone talk about it. A total shame! It’s such a sharp series. In the comedy, a geeky Gen Z biochemical engineering Ph.D. student named Amina becomes the reluctant lead guitarist of an all-women Muslim punk band in London. It’s riotous and joyful, and the songs alone (case in point: “Voldemore Under My Headscarf”) are worth the watch.

The commitment: 2 seasons, 6 episodes each, ~25 min

Deli Boys (Hulu)

Chalk another win up for crime comedies! Here, two pampered Pakistani-American brothers discover — upon their father’s death — that the convenience store patriarch had been using his empire as a huge drug smuggling ring. Hilarity ensues as they try to figure out their place in the seedy criminal-front underworld. I’m personally obsessed with Poorna Jagannathan as the family’s terrifying auntie-consigliere. The show has been called Schitt’s Creek meets Breaking Bad, and that’s pretty accurate.

The commitment: 2 seasons, 10 episodes + 6 episodes, ~8 hours total

Extraordinary (Hulu)

Listen, I’m going to start this with a disclaimer: This series ends with a massive cliffhanger because it was canceled (prematurely!). So, if you can’t handle that going in, skip to the next one on the list. I hope you don’t, though, since Extraordinary deserves all the fanfare it can get. In a world where everyone gets a superpower at 18, Jen is 25 and still waiting on hers. In fact, she’s the only person on earth who doesn’t have one. It’s such a clever twist on the typical superhero tropes, and genuinely just a fun, raunchy, surprisingly poignant comedy.

The commitment: 2 seasons, 8 episodes each, ~3.5 hours per season

Godless (Netflix)

You’ll never catch me turning down anything starring Merritt Wever, who plays one of the leads in this neo-Western miniseries. Set in an 1880s New Mexico mining town run almost entirely by women after a disaster kills most of the men, it also sees Michelle Dockery as a badass frontier mom and Jeff Daniels in the most unlikable role you’ll probably ever see from him.

The commitment: 1 season, 7 episodes, ~7.5 hours total

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Prime Video)

I feel like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s ties to the movie version of this show may have kept some people from tuning in to this excellent series so far. If you’re one of those people, here’s your sign to change that now. Donald Glover and Maya Erskine step into the title roles as two lonely strangers assigned to pose as a married couple for spy missions. They’re both incredible; the action is jaw-dropping... just a solid watch.

The commitment: 1 season, 8 episodes, ~6.5 hours total

The Change (BritBox)

I know you know I know that you don’t want to pay for another streaming service, but hear me out. BritBox is worth it. You’ll tap into a wealth of British humor you didn’t even realize was out there for the watching! Perfect example? This hilarious series about a menopausal woman named Linda who decides to ditch all the invisible labor she does at home and reclaim her life by riding off into the forest on a motorcycle. It’s smart and funny, full of heart, and features some excellent embedded feminist social commentary.

The commitment: 2 seasons, 6 episodes each, ~3 hours per season

Platonic (Apple TV+)

With Rose Byrne and Seth Rogen as leads, it’s obviously going to be funny. Here, they play former best friends who reconnect in midlife and, well, pretty much make each other’s lives gloriously worse before they get better. It’s so rare to see a show that fully focuses on adult friendship between the sexes — catch up on the first two seasons now since it’ll be a minute before Season 3 drops.

The commitment: 2 seasons, 10 episodes each, ~5 hours per season

Girls5Eva (Netflix)

I’m still a little bummed out that this nostalgic, female-forward series got orphaned… twice. So, we only got three seasons, but they’re good ones — Sara Bareilles, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Busy Philipps, and Paula Pell nail it as a one-hit-wonder ‘90s girl group reuniting in their 40s. The original songs? Fire. The jokes? Rapid fire. It’ll leave you wanting more in a good way.

The commitment: 3 seasons, 6-8 episodes each, ~11 hours total

So now, when someone asks you if you got anything done this weekend, you can fire off “I finished a whole series” like the accomplishment it is.

]]><![CDATA[The Kids’ Birthday Gifts Scary Mommy Editors Swear By]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/best-kids-birthday-gifts-editors-pickshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/best-kids-birthday-gifts-editors-picksWed, 01 Jul 2026 21:30:49 GMT

We’ve all been there: You have to be at the bowling alley in half an hour for a birthday party for a kid you’ve never met from your child’s class, soccer team, or dance school. You’re walking the toy aisles and scanning for options, but with no idea what the birthday boy or girl is into, you haven’t the slightest idea what to buy them. You just learned their first name, for crying out loud.

Fear thee not, weary shopper — as seasoned veterans of children’s birthday parties, we here at Scary Mommy have developed a go-to list of birthday gifts we return to again and again, and we nearly always win the unspoken “best gift” award. So, here are the gift ideas we love most. Why? Because they’re affordable, widely loved, and won’t wind up in a trash bag or donation pile by this time next year.

A Kite (Yes, A Plain Old Kite)

You can get a pretty solid beginner's kite for around $20 (our birthday spending limit), and it still feels so special and magical. The kids always love it, and it often gives the kids something to do at the party when they open it. It's gender-neutral, and basically everyone likes a kite! — Sarah Aswell, Deputy Editor, News & Social

A Classic Family Board Game

Whenever I don't know what to buy a kid, I reach for a classic family-friendly board game, a la Candy Land, Sorry!, or Trouble (depending on the child's age). They're not that expensive, and it's something the family will likely keep and return to for many years to come, as opposed to something that'll get thrown away or donated a year from now. — Katie McPherson, Associate Editor, Lifestyle & Entertainment

An Activity That Becomes A Decoration

I love getting a LEGO set for a birthday gift, because I know I'm also buying the parents some time that their kid will be occupied and off a screen. The botanical sets are so pretty and something they can display in their rooms when they're done, and they're surprisingly affordable IMO. — Katie McPherson

Satisfying Trinkets, Obviously

This is one of those birthday gifts that goes on every single gift list for a reason! The Mini Brands Fill the Fridge Playset is a fully detailed miniature fridge with removable shelves, drawers, a working UV light, and fridge magnets that kids can customize and stock with their Mini Brands collectibles. It's inspired by the wildly popular fridge-restocking trend I watch on TikTok for hours, and my daughter has her own and LOVES it. The kids go wild for these, and honestly, as a trinket girlie, I love it too! — Katie Garrity, News & Social Editor

A Travel-Friendly Game Set For Road Trips & Long Waits

We bring this on every family vacation. It's my go-to for a simple small additional gift instead of candy. — Kate Auletta, Editor-in-Chief

A Giant Sticker Book

Nothing occupies my 5-year-old like a big ass sticker book in one of his areas of interest. This Pokémon one has a sticker of every Pokémon in existence (which means there are over a thousand), so it lasts forever. But any dinos, marine animals, unicorns, or other sticker books would probably have the same effect. — Katie McPherson

A Kandi Bracelet Making Kit

These beads are great for boys or girls (in my daughter's middle school, these bracelets are all the rage) and have sort of replaced the friendship bracelets of our time. You can get a ton for not too much money, and many sets come with string included. — Sarah Aswell

A Box Set Of Books They’ll Love Forever

I have had my life changed by getting a book box set for a present, and I love giving them to kids. For younger kids, they have great options like Magic Tree House, Wimpy Kid, Dogman, and Baby-Sitters Club. For older kids, I love this Good Girls' Guide to Murder paperback set or The Summer I Turned Pretty — just check in with the parents to see what they've already read. Surprisingly, a good paperback box set can come in under $30. — Sarah Aswell

A Whiteboard & Markers, Whether They’ve Asked For It Or Not

Kids might not know it, but they want a whiteboard to hang in their room. These are often under $20, with markers included. — Sarah Aswell

Some Sweet Paint Markers

My kid can never get enough of these paint markers, and you can find them at all price points. They are colorful, fun, and feel way more special than a regular set. Pair them with a coloring book and you are done! — Sarah Aswell

A Modern Version Of A Timeless 1:1 Game

My kids and I play this game all the time. It's strategic but also so fun so the kids don't realize they're *learning*. A classic for a reason. — Kate Auletta

A Viral Game They’ll Be Thrilled To Play IRL

This is our new favorite family board game. It's easy for a wide range of kid ages, and it's silly and fun (and the board is beautiful). It doesn't have pages of rules to read, either. It also comes in at around $20, which I love. — Sarah Aswell

An Extra Special Bead Set

Look, I don't have daughters, so if given the chance to buy sparkly beads for someone, I will do it. Super Smalls is a great brand with so many fun crafts that kids love. — Kate Auletta

From our birthday idea list to yours — may you never be stumped in the toy aisle again.

]]><![CDATA[First Time At Halloween Horror Nights? Tips For The Midlife Crowd]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/halloween-horror-nights-tips-first-trip-30s-40shttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/halloween-horror-nights-tips-first-trip-30s-40sWed, 01 Jul 2026 19:52:33 GMT
Universal Orlando

As a self-professed certified Horror Girlie™, I lean pretty hard into experiences with a spooky slant. I’ve stayed at the hotel that inspired The Shining. I’ve ridden on a float in New Orleans’ famous Krewe of Boo parade. More recently, I finally started going to what is arguably Universal’s most highly anticipated annual event: Halloween Horror Nights. I’m not sure what took me so long, but now we’re here… and I’ve got some pointers for my fellow horror lovers who are headed to HHN for the first time.

Within an hour of attending my first HHN, a few realizations became abundantly clear: My body is not as young as my brain still thinks it is, and this is one of the most fun nights a horror fan can have. Two things can be true at once. So, if you’re also a mom in her 40s (or just a person curious about what you’re about to get into), here’s what I wish someone would have grabbed me by the shoulders and told me.

Any add-on that cuts wait time is worth the splurge.

Times are hard, this we know. Everything is expensive, which makes tacking on even more to your trip a difficult pill to swallow. But trust me when I say ain’t no line like an HHN house line! It’s like if every single line for Universal rides was as long as waiting for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure (iykyk). And if you’re already dropping a decent chunk of change to attend HHN, I feel like you might as well spend what you need to make the experience the best it can be, if your budget allows. You have a few options here, too:

  • Scream Early Ticket: This $70 add-on allows you to enter HHN at 2 p.m., granting you access to park attractions and at least three select Haunted Houses (at the park's discretion) before the general public piles in starting at 5:30 p.m.
  • Express Pass: This $199.99 add-on allows you to use the Express Access line one time at all 10 houses and participating attractions, dramatically reducing your wait time.
  • R.I.P. Tour: The priciest of the bunch, this $459.99 add-on gives your priority VIP entry to each haunted house, along with Express Unlimited Access for rides. It also includes a reception, commemorative R.I.P. Tour credential, lanyard and button, and valet parking.

Skip the rides. I’m not kidding.

It pains me to say this because I love Universal’s rides, and my general instinct is to just ride everything as much as possible. However, the rides are available year-round. HHN is not. Save your limited midlife energy for the houses and scare zones, especially if you’re only doing one night (which is all many of us can afford).

We didn’t do early access last year, but we were literally first in line to enter the park when the gates opened. Even without any breaks other than brief bathroom and food pit stops, we only made it through 9 of the 10 houses before closing. Going on rides just eats into your time for the houses and scare zones.

Do not underestimate the food lines.

You’ll see so many Reels leading up to HHN about the fun-themed foods and drinks available — you’re going to want all of them. But here’s what you won’t hear about as much: how long the lines are! This is particularly true for the most popular/buzziest stands. We gave up on a few, and I’m still bummed I didn’t get to try the “Death By Cheese Stick.”

What this really means is that you need to pre-game. Before the event, make sure you fuel up a little, whether you eat at home or grab something in City Walk. Pro tip: The food lines tapered off a ton towards the end of the night, so you could always save the snack-stand stops for post-midnight (which might also give you the push you need to make it through those last few hours).

Wear the most comfortable shoes you can muster.

Not to be a vibe killer, because I know a classic pair of sneaks might not go with the ensemble if you’re dressing up. Still, I say this with love: Your dogs are gonna be barking if you don’t choose your footwear wisely. Someone in my group last year chose to break in a brand-new pair of shoes, and they barely made it through two houses before developing huge blisters on their feet.

This is a full night of hoofing it, standing, sprinting away from a zombie headed straight for you. Whatever “cute-but-questionable” footwear instinct you have, ignore it. Theme park days are notoriously strenuous days, but HHN is next level. We hit 30k steps by the end of the night.

Girl, you bettah hydrate!

You’re going to sweat in places you didn’t even know existed. You’ll sweat through your clothes. Your hair will be damp. Every single pore on your body will want to open up and perspire. And when you’re in the moment, just trucking it from house to house, you aren’t necessarily thinking about how much liquid you’re losing.

Bring an empty water bottle that you can refill for free at any quick-service spot, and stick a few electrolyte packets in your bag. Your 20-something self would power through on Diet Coke and a dream, but honey, if we try that now we’ll turn to dust.

Yes, you can still dress up.

Themed outfits are 100% part of the HHN culture, but I’ll admit I felt weird getting into it at first. Like, are people going to think I’m too old for this?! The good news: No one is going to side-eye a 40-something woman for wearing Terrifier glasses and a pleather skirt with fishnets. I wish I had embraced this more in the beginning, because it does add to the fun.

Just make sure you check the costume and bag rules ahead of time and plan accordingly. Masks, heavy makeup, and weapons (obviously) aren’t allowed, and there may be restrictions on certain costume pieces. As for bags, small or clear ones move through security the quickest.

Go in with a game plan.

Add this to the longstanding debate of planning vs. winging it! There are people in each camp who swear their way is the best. In my experience, though, it does help if you have some strategy before you walk into HHN. We usually head to the houses in the back of the park first. The lines there build the fastest once the gates open and crowds start flowing in.

If you added on early entry, this approach really works in your favor. If you’re going without early access or Express Passes, your best bet is to focus on your absolute must-see houses immediately. You’re likely not going to be able to hit everything, so get your faves out of the way first. Anything you manage to squeeze in after that will be a bonus.

Another smart idea, when possible, is to loop the park in one direction rather than crisscrossing. We pretty much just ran where it looked like the lines were thinnest, which tacked a lot of steps onto our night.

You can do it your own way.

Here’s the thing: You don’t have to do HHN like the 22-year-olds next to you in line. Again, we’re not 22 anymore. Stop and see the stage show to give your feet a break (we did this last year, and it was one of the most surprising highlights of the night!). Bring some high-fidelity earplugs to take the edge off the noise if you get easily overstimulated. Skip a house if the wait just isn’t worth it to you — we did this with Five Nights at Freddy’s last year, and I have no regrets.

You’re allowed to go at your own pace. But whatever that pace is, just know that it’s probably a good plan to pack extra ibuprofen and a tube of lidocaine foot rub cream in your hotel bag because your old ass is going to be sore the next day. Ask me how I know.

]]><![CDATA[Let's Bring Back Potluck Night]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/lets-bring-back-potluck-nighthttps://www.scarymommy.com/lifestyle/lets-bring-back-potluck-nightWed, 01 Jul 2026 17:28:39 GMT
Maskot/DigitalVision/Getty Images

My besties and I meet once a week for dinner. It’s our time to decompress about everything from motherhood to being a single parent to the latest fashion trends to our relationships. We’ve been doing it since our 20s (we’re now 50), and it's always been an added expense, but well worth it. Almost like therapy.

But with rising food costs and gas prices on steroids, it’s become hard to justify. In fact, I’d go so far as to say I started to feel irresponsible. I’m all for living your life and enjoying it. Going out to eat has always been one of my favorite things to do. No cooking, no cleaning, and being waited on? Sign me up!

Meeting friends and family for a meal out has been my go-to for so long, but something had to give. A few months ago while having dinner with a girlfriend, we were signing off on our dinner bills (that had gone up again) and we looked at each other and said at the exact same time, “I can’t spend $45 on a salad once a week anymore.” Yes, our weekly meeting was special, but it was costing almost $200 a month. I’m done shaking my head every time I see how much a small plate of food costs like I didn’t know what was coming. By now we all know just aren’t like they used to be.

So instead of complaining after every meal, we decided it was time to bring back the potluck. And it’s been the best thing ever.

Yes, I know some people aren’t into it; they get a little squeamish about eating food made in someone else’s kitchen, but to me it’s been such a positive change for so many reasons.

First and foremost, it saves so much money. Instead of dropping almost fifty bucks, we spend less than half of that on a dish. And if you don’t think you have time to make a dish to share, ask yourself this: do you have time to save hundreds a month?

There’s a lot more food. I don’t know about you, but I’ve had enough of going to a restaurant and seeing the prices go up and the portions go down. I want to feel full after a meal, and no one ever leaves a potluck hungry.

Everyone contributes so the host doesn’t have to do all the work, which is perfect for me because as much as I like to entertain, I hate making an entire meal for a bunch of people. I simply don’t have the energy to do all the cooking and then entertain. And it’s actually so fun to see the variety that’s there and exchange recipes.

Potlucks used to be a huge thing; they practically take you back in time. Whether it was a Christmas party, a barbeque at the end of the street, or a church gathering, nobody worried about making things perfect. I’m more than happy to sit around a table of homemade food with good friends and laugh. It’s not about the casserole, it’s about the connection. (Okay, if there’s cheese involved, it’s about the casserole.)

These gatherings have been so much more memorable than meeting at a restaurant. Plus there’s the added bonus of being able to hear everyone at the table.So, let’s bring back the potluck. Dust off the slow cooker and finally put that Pinterest board with all the delicious recipes you’ve been collecting to use. You actually can bring people together with macaroni salad and I’ve seen proof that you can brighten someone’s day with a killer 7-layer dip.

Katie lives in Maine with her three kids, two ducks, and a goldendoodle. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, at the gym, redecorating her home, or spending too much money online.

]]><![CDATA[Returning To Work With PPD Is Its Own Kind Of Hard]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/returning-to-work-with-ppdhttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/returning-to-work-with-ppdWed, 01 Jul 2026 14:52:39 GMT

After having a baby, I never fully returned to the office. It was 2021, so remote and hybrid positions were the norm. When my maternity leave was up, returning to work didn’t seem like such a big deal. I was home. I could breastfeed. I was in sweatpants. What more could I want?

With my baby and nanny in my periphery, I revved up the ol’ computer and logged on from the comfort of my apartment. Business as usual. The only difference? A four-month-old dependent and postpartum depression (PPD). Maybe going back to work wasn’t as straightforward as I thought it would be.

Planning And Feeding With PPD

Originally, I saw the proximity to my baby during the eight-hour workday as a godsend. A lot of my struggles with PPD revolved around executive function. My brain could not get from point A to point B to point C when it came to the logistics of pumping, dumping, and everything in between. Nursing was easy. I didn’t have to plan, calculate, or freeze anything.

But it also positioned me as even more central than I already was within our new little family. Even if I had a long-scheduled meeting on my calendar, if my nanny approached with a wailing, hungry infant, there wasn’t anything I could do other than turn off my camera and pop out my boob.

Suddenly, even though I was “back at work,” I felt stuck at home again. Adjusting to the pace of work and the baby’s needs felt insurmountable. Instead of feeling relief when the nanny showed up, I felt dread. Feeding the baby, feeding myself, and being back at work all in the same 450-square-foot space was my own Inception.

I asked Allison Yura, LCSW, and a therapist trained in perinatal mental health, about creating boundaries with work and postpartum. She told me, “Working from home comes with many benefits, but many parents find it hard to focus on work when they hear their baby in the other room. Switching quickly from the parenting hat to the work hat can cause stress and confusion for some parents.”

Three Babes In A Trench Coat

Because our company became mostly remote, the first time I saw my coworkers after maternity leave was at a team lunch. At this point, PPD and I were pretty cozy. I had barely left the house, let alone socialized. So when I had to show up for an in-person lunch, getting dressed, wearing makeup, and heading up the subway steps all felt like play-acting.

I was three babies in a trench coat pretending to be a working woman. How could I not be found out? If one of my colleagues asked how I was doing, that meant they knew I was struggling, right? I felt like an alien in my body as I greeted people I’d known for almost a decade. I wanted to bang on the glass and cry for help, but I didn’t want to scare them away. When they asked, “How’s mom life?” I answered, “Great!”

I’m not alone, though. “It is common to feel that the postpartum depression, or the postpartum experience in general, has changed the way the world appears!” Yura tells me. “Integrating this new role as a parent can take time and may change the way you feel out and about in the world and interact with friends and family.”

Maybe I wasn’t three babies in a trench coat, but I was a new version of myself introducing myself to the world.

Masking In Plain Sight

I thought being in proximity to my baby while working would negate the rumblings of “mom guilt.” Quite the opposite. I felt more like a crazy ex-girlfriend, watching my nanny take my baby out for walks on beautiful sunny days as pangs of jealousy coursed through my veins. Irrational postpartum thoughts had me spiraling over time lost with my baby.

But in video meetings, I could easily snap into bright, cheery, competent mode. On the one hand, Yura tells me that work can be a break from the new postpartum reality — but is it sustainable? “Forty or more hours a week of masking can get tiring and will likely lead to a restraint collapse at some point,” she says.

That doesn’t mean masking is always bad. Sometimes it helped me get through the day. It gave me structure when everything felt chaotic and allowed me to show up for work even when I felt like I was unraveling. But the more convincing I was at acting fine, the harder it became for anyone — including me — to recognize how much I was struggling.

Returning to work with PPD wasn’t the clean break from motherhood that I imagined. If anything, remote work blurred the boundaries even further. I was toggling between employee, mother, patient, milk machine, scheduler, and anxious overthinker, sometimes within the span of a single hour. The world may have seemed to move on as usual, but I was becoming someone new. So no, I never fully returned to the office. But a new version of myself is still showing up to work.

Presented by BDG Studios

]]><![CDATA[The Difference Between PPD And Postpartum Anxiety (& Why It Matters)]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/pregnancy/the-difference-between-ppd-and-postpartum-anxietyhttps://www.scarymommy.com/pregnancy/the-difference-between-ppd-and-postpartum-anxietyWed, 01 Jul 2026 14:51:37 GMT

Motherhood is a huge transition, so it’s not surprising that the changes that come with it can throw our mental health for a loop: About one in every five to seven moms can experience a perinatal mood disorder during pregnancy or in the first year after giving birth.

While postpartum depression, or PPD, is often discussed, it’s important to recognize that it’s not the only mental health condition that can affect new moms during this period.

“Postpartum anxiety tends to be underlooked,” says Dr. Shelly Orlowsky, a licensed clinical psychologist based in Miami Beach, Florida, who specializes in reproductive mental health. One reason? “Anxiety is often more normalized — like, you’re a new mom, of course you’re going to worry.”

But like with PPD, postpartum anxiety (PPA) can have serious effects if left untreated. Understanding the differences in how these two conditions can show up is vital — here’s what to know.

There Are Similarities And Differences Between PPD And PPA

“You often hear PPD as a blanket term for any clinical condition a postpartum mom goes through,” says Orlowsky. It’s often conflated with PPA, and while they do have similarities, they also have important differences.

For starters, each condition shares similar timing: Both PPD and PPA can occur during pregnancy, or within the first year postpartum, and new stressors — like a parent returning to work or the baby starting a new feeding pattern — can contribute to their development or worsen what you’re already feeling, says Orlowsky.

Both conditions also share a similarity in what sets them apart from the “baby blues,” which typically fade within a few weeks: PPD and PPA symptoms are persistent and impair your day-to-day functioning.

“When we’re looking at postpartum depression and anxiety, we’re talking about symptoms lasting more days than not for a period of two weeks or more,” she says. The exact symptoms you experience with the two conditions, though, can vary.

PPD often comes with the following:

  • Crying or sadness
  • Anger or rage
  • Irritability
  • Difficulty completing daily tasks
  • Fatigue or loss of energy or motivation

PPA, on the other hand, is often marked by:

  • Excessive worry or rumination
  • Self-doubt
  • Racing thoughts
  • Nausea, dizziness, racing heart, or diarrhea

Some Symptoms Overlap With PPD And PPA

But like non-perinatal anxiety and depression, postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms can overlap, Orlowsky says.

For instance, both conditions can cause:

  • Sleep issues
  • Changes in appetite
  • Feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness
  • Negative feelings about identity as a mom

“Postpartum depression is more than a depressed mood,” Orlowsky says. “It can often be accompanied by anxiety and overwhelming feelings of guilt and shame, because women will describe having negative thoughts about themselves.”

It’s also possible, according to Orlowsky, that the conditions can occur together or that one can trigger the other. In fact, according to a 2025 study in BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, nearly 10% of new moms self-reported both PPD and PPA at the same time.

“Over time, the diagnoses can overlap,” she says. “As you can imagine, if anxiety is long-lasting, it can lead to depressive symptoms.” Think of a mom who’s constantly worried about her baby — is he still breathing, is he swaddled too tightly, is he eating enough?

“She’s sleep deprived because she’s checking on the baby, she’s on high alert, she’s exhausted physically and mentally,” Orlowsky says. “That’s going to eventually have an effect on mom where she’s going to feel irritable, agitated, or rageful and depressed because of that. That’s why we do see so much overlap.”

Why It’s Important To Know The Difference

“When there isn’t the information or education given to moms and new families about what to look for, moms are left diagnosing themselves or not really knowing what’s going on,” Orlowsky says. “When we don’t recognize the full range of conditions that moms can experience, they may not receive the right support.”

If a new mom is laser-focused on the symptoms that come with one of these conditions, she may feel like she’s in the clear if she’s not experiencing them — even if she’s struggling with other symptoms causing clear distress. As a result, she may miss out on getting a diagnosis.

Understanding the differences in these conditions can help you recognize that what you’re feeling is more than baby blues or a normal postpartum adjustment. “Having a name for it like, ‘oh, this is postpartum anxiety,’ can help you feel validated,” Orlowsky says.

It can also encourage you to seek prompt treatment. This is crucial because a delay can affect how you bond with your baby and even lead to longer-term consequences. “If left untreated, it can affect mom’s identity — she can have this narrative of being a ‘bad mom’ because of her anxiety or depression,” she says.

Whether you’re experiencing PPD, PPA, or a combination of both, treatment is often very effective, says Orlowsky. Usually, it’s multi-pronged: It can include individual therapy, group therapy, and social support. There may be separate support groups for PPD and PPA, which can be particularly helpful since you can be around other new moms experiencing a more similar subset of symptoms and experiences.

“These mental health conditions are highly treatable,” Orlowsky says. “They can help moms experience symptom relief and be able to reengage or be the mom that they want to be.”

Postpartum Support International can help you find a local or online support group. There’s even a 24/7 help line dedicated to supporting new moms and even family members, including dads and partners.

Presented by BDG Studios

]]><![CDATA[Oh Crap, I Only Have 4 Summers Left With My Kids]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/oh-crap-i-only-have-four-summers-left-with-my-kidshttps://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/oh-crap-i-only-have-four-summers-left-with-my-kidsWed, 01 Jul 2026 13:35:09 GMT
Charday Penn/E+/Getty Images

Ever since I became a mom, the end goal has been to raise my kids to be thoughtful, kind, independent little firecrackers, ready to take on the world. But now, with my oldest graduating eighth grade and going to high school in the fall, I’m feeling all sorts of things. Honestly, I thought nudging her towards independence would feel more exciting, more like a natural progression, but instead, I‘m going through it.

My spiral really kicked off before her first overnight school trip, which I had volunteered to chaperone. Her class was going for a five-day-five-night trip to Washington, DC, and I was ready—loud coach bus, wrangling kids who weren’t mine, keep an eye on her while giving her plenty of space and distance to hang with her friends or whatever, but then she broke my heart a little the moment she said, Mom, could you please not chaperone.

It’s been a while since I chaperoned any field trips, and I was certainly never wanted at a middle school dance. Still, I thought with this being her last middle school adventure, she might want me to come along for the ride (never guessing I was probably the only one who thought that). In the week leading up to the trip, I worked through my feelings and all kinds of ways—smothering her with affection, lots of introspective journaling, grasping onto my other daughter like my life depended on it. And at some point, the realization hit me like a ton of bricks—oh crap, these are gonna be my last four summers with her.

Don’t get me wrong, the minute she turns 18 and heads off to college (or whatever her next step in life will be), I’m not kicking her out the door and changing the locks. She’s always welcome at her home, and will always have a place to land with me, but the dynamics are going to change. Case in point, another conversation we had about what we were going to do this summer.

She shared a bucket list with me that she put together with one of her girlfriends. There’s a ton they want to tackle this summer before freshman year, and I’m here for it. I love it! They’ve got things from going to the beach to painting pottery to having an all-night sleepover, you know, fun stuff. But, shocking absolutely no one (except me), those plans were only really going to include me as a chauffeur extraordinaire.

Yes, I know this is healthy. This is the endgame, the goal for my kids. To have them grow up to be independent and make good decisions on their own, but I thought I’d be a little bit more excited for it.

Maybe today I’m just in a reflective mood, waxing poetic about feeling like I’m being left behind. The majority of my adult life has been spent with a huge part of my identity as a mom, and yes, I am more than just a mom, but not feeling as needed by my kids feels like a void that I wasn’t at all prepared for.

It makes me feel some kind of way that it seems like she’s not gonna miss me as much as I’m gonna miss her. On the flip side, we all know teenagers aren’t great at expressing any emotions that make them particularly vulnerable. So I’ll just let that small part of me think, hope, and wish that, even though this is what’s supposed to happen next, it won’t be the smoothest transition for her either. That won’t be because I don’t want it to be, but because I hope part of her wants me to be there for the big things too.

I just need to take a deep breath. She’s not totally done with me, but she doesn’t wanna hang out with me 24/7. And yet she also hasn’t barred me from her bedroom. She still wants to do a shopping spree for a wardrobe update now that she’s going into high school and cares about my opinion (not just my card). And, she still says her favorite thing to do with me is our book dates at Barnes & Noble.

There is still plenty of time, and there are still many moments we will enjoy spending together, but as she gets older, it might just look a little different. After all, as an adult, I don’t crave time with my mom the same way I did at 13 or even at 30. But it doesn’t mean we don’t still have a strong, loving relationship… it has just evolved.

Turns out, I might actually have to listen to what my therapist tells me about literally every other aspect of my life: that two things can be true at once. I can mourn the loss of the early years, but also be excited and thrilled about the next phase in the relationship my daughter and I have.

I only have four more summers with her during high school, where I’ll have a little more say in the ways we spend time, even though her interest may wane in the things we do. But growing up is part of life, and I’m just glad I’m here to see it, and am so, so excited for all the experiences she’s yet to have, even if they’re without me.

Holly Garcia writes about parenting, mental health, and all the lifestyle things. She hails from the Midwest, where she’s raising her daughters and drinking copious amounts of coffee.

]]><![CDATA[Scary Mommy Readers' Choice 2026 Best Personal Cooling Tech Brands]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-readers-choice-2026-best-personal-cooling-tech-brandshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-readers-choice-2026-best-personal-cooling-tech-brandsWed, 01 Jul 2026 13:18:34 GMT

It’s summer, which means it’s (usually) hot as Hades outside. But you want to be outdoors — as do your kids — so you deal with it. These brands just make it a little bit easier — and chicer — to do it. From fans to wearables, here are some favorites of the Scary Mommy team.

Photos Courtesy of Cool Links, Embr Labs, Momcozy, Sony, ThermApparel

]]><![CDATA[Scary Mommy Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 Best Sun-Safe Streetwear Brands]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-readers-choice-2026-best-sun-safe-streetwear-brandshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-readers-choice-2026-best-sun-safe-streetwear-brandsWed, 01 Jul 2026 13:17:28 GMT

It’s summer, it’s hot, and you want to wear that cute little outfit but also want additional sun protection. Smart. From leggings and jackets, to dresses and shorts, these brands will keep you stylish, cool, and protected all summer long.

Photos Courtesy of Athleta/Gap, Boden, Uniqlo, UV Skinz

]]><![CDATA[Scary Mommy Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 Best Elevated Picnic Gear Brands]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-readers-choice-2026-best-elevated-picnic-gear-brandshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-readers-choice-2026-best-elevated-picnic-gear-brandsWed, 01 Jul 2026 13:17:08 GMT

There isn’t much better in life than al fresco dining. It can be quiet and peaceful (with or without kids) and it can be so relaxing to sit under the trees eating a meal. Of course, there’s the flip side of that: dirty hands, ants, sticky drinks, and on and on. These brands make the case for picnic-ing in style, no matter the occasion.

Photos Courtesy of Business & Pleasure Co., Hydro Flask, Nomadix, Rumpl, YETI

]]><![CDATA[Scary Mommy Readers' Choice Awards 2026 Best Portable Power Brands]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-readers-choice-awards-2026-best-portable-power-brandshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-readers-choice-awards-2026-best-portable-power-brandsWed, 01 Jul 2026 13:16:26 GMT

As a parent, you’re constantly on the go. And, especially in summer when your kids are all over the place and not just in a school building, you need to make sure you’re always reachable. Which is why having a trusty backup power source is essential. These bad boys can be heavy and clunky, so you want to make sure you get the best of the best, which is where these brands come in. You’re welcome in advance.

Photos Courtesy of Belkin, Crave, Ecoflow, Rolling Square, Satechi, Ugreen

]]><![CDATA[Scary Mommy Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 Best 'Go Everywhere' Chair Brands]]>https://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-readers-choice-2026-best-go-everywhere-chair-brandshttps://www.scarymommy.com/shopping/scary-mommy-readers-choice-2026-best-go-everywhere-chair-brandsWed, 01 Jul 2026 13:16:14 GMT

I don’t know about you, but I spend a LOT of time sitting and watching my kids do all sorts of things. And, especially as you age, you do not want to be uncomfortable while doing it, believe me. These featured brands offer stylish support so you can relax at the ball field, or while making smores, or whatever, happily and comfortably for years to come.

Photos Courtesy of Nemo Equipment, PARKIT Co., REI Co-op, Sunflow

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