My Review of Cuyana’s Overnight Bag in Recycled Knit

Upgrading from Diaper Bags to Chic Travel Bags: My Love Affair with the Cuyana Recycled Medium Travel Bag

There comes a time in every mom’s life when she realizes: It’s time to retire the diaper bag. And for me, that moment arrived as Evy turned two. While I’ll always be nostalgic for the sweet baby days (and yes, I still carry more snacks than any human should), I was ready to reclaim a bag that felt more me—something functional, polished, and ready for anything from preschool drop-offs to coffee meetings to weekend getaways. Enter: the Cuyana Overnight Bag.

Sleek, Spacious, and Smart

First things first—this bag is minimalist and elegant. With its streamlined design, it gives off that effortless “I have my life together” energy, even when I’m running late and Evy is demanding a third breakfast. The gold hardware adds just the right amount of polish, making it feel more like a luxe handbag than a catch-all carryall.

But the real magic? The functionality. This bag fits everything. My laptop? Check. Evy’s emergency snacks? Check. A change of clothes, wipes, my iPad, and my overpriced but much-beloved Summer Fridays lip balm? All in there, without the dreaded black hole effect. The compartments are well-thought-out, keeping my essentials organized instead of floating around in the abyss of a bottomless tote.

Lightweight & Low-Maintenance—A Mom’s Dream

Let’s talk materials. This beauty is made from recycled plastic, which means I get to feel good about my purchase and enjoy the perks of a bag that’s lightweight and super easy to clean. Toddler spills? No problem. Random mystery stains? Wipes right off. Recently, my daughter dumped powder all over the outside and inside of the bag, and I vacuumed it off in no time.

A Bag That Moves With Me

The best part is how seamlessly this bag transitions through my day. It’s professional enough to bring to work, roomy enough for toddler essentials, and stylish enough for travel. I love a piece that can multitask as hard as I do.

So, if you’re looking for the perfect upgrade from your diaper bag—or just a bag that makes your life feel a little more pulled together—this one’s a winner. Trust me, you won’t miss the days of carrying around an extra onesie just in case (okay, maybe just a little).

The Ultimate Luxury Push Present: Timeless Heirlooms from Juwels & Co.

Becoming a mother is one of life’s most profound and transformative experiences. To commemorate this special moment, many choose to give a meaningful “push present”—a gift that celebrates the strength, love, and joy of welcoming a new life into the world. For a push present that embodies luxury, thoughtfulness, and elegance, I highly recommend the absolutely exquisite jewelry pieces from Juwels & Co.

Why I Choose Juwels & Co. for Push Presents

I feel genuinely good about investing in pieces from Juwels & Co., a brand that exemplifies sustainable luxury and ethical craftsmanship. They take pride in using ethically sourced materials and sustainable practices, ensuring that every piece is made with respect for both people and the planet. This conscious approach aligns perfectly with my values, making me feel even more confident about my purchase.

Juwels & Co. goes beyond just creating beautiful jewelry—they focus on pieces that carry deep personal meaning. Each creation is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans, combining modern sophistication with timeless elegance. Their designs are perfect for marking significant life milestones, like the birth of a child, making them an ideal choice for push presents.

The Toi & Moi Collection: A Personalized Treasure

One of my favorite collections from Juwels & Co. is their Toi & Moi collection. This stunning line allows you to personalize jewelry pieces by pairing your birthstone with your child’s. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the unbreakable bond between mother and child. Whether you’re looking for a necklace or a pair of earrings, this collection offers a variety of options that can be customized with the gemstones that represent you and your little one.
The idea of wearing a piece that connects both you and your child is incredibly sentimental. Not only does it serve as a daily reminder of your love and connection, but it also becomes an heirloom that you can pass down to future generations. I adore the thought of these pieces becoming cherished family treasures, filled with stories and memories.

Perfect Push Presents from Juwels & Co.

If you’re searching for the perfect push present (or even a Mother’s Day gift), here are a few of my favorite pieces from Juwels & Co.:

        1.      Toi & Moi Necklace: This beautiful necklace, featuring a birth month gemstone (mine is Blue Topaz), is perfect for a mother who wants to honor her month alongside her baby’s. Its delicate design (it comes in two sizes) make it a standout piece that can be worn daily or for special occasions.

        2.      Toi & Moi Studs: These matching stud earrings, also adorned with your birth month gemstone, are a lovely complement to the necklace. They offer a sophisticated yet understated look, perfect for the new mom who appreciates elegance and versatility in her jewelry collection.

3. Toi & Moi Ring: It was only in the last year that I got into wearing rings, and this one has certainly caught my eye with its beautiful, elegant design. 

One of my favorite things about Juwels & Co is the level of personalization they facilitate. As many of you know, I’m a huge fan of rose gold, but not every company offers this metal as an option and, when they do, they often charge extra for it. I think their pieces make beautiful gifts for other occasions as well.

Why Juwels & Co. Pieces Make the Best Push Presents

Push presents should be more than just a gift—they should reflect the profound significance of becoming a mother and serve as a lasting symbol of this special moment. With Juwels & Co., you’re not only investing in a piece of jewelry but in a meaningful heirloom that carries the love and joy of your family story. Their commitment to ethical practices, the personalization offered through the Toi & Moi collection, and their timeless designs make them the ultimate choice for those seeking a luxurious push present that will be cherished forever.

Whether it’s a personalized necklace from the Toi & Moi collection or a set of stunning gemstone studs, Juwels & Co. offers exquisite options that any new mom would be thrilled to receive. These are more than just beautiful pieces—they are celebrations of life, love, and the extraordinary journey of motherhood.

Bloom & Rise Subscription Box Review: The Self-Care Treat Every Mom Needs

Let’s be real—motherhood is a beautiful, messy, all-consuming rollercoaster that somehow involves equal parts heart-bursting joy and negotiating with a tiny human over why we don’t eat crayons. And while we’d all love a personal assistant (or at least an uninterrupted shower), the next best thing just landed at my doorstep: the Bloom & Rise Mommy and Toddler Box.

This subscription box is basically the fairy godmother of self-care, swooping in with a perfectly curated mix of goodies for both mama and little one. Because, let’s face it, self-care isn’t just bubble baths and scented candles—it’s also keeping your toddler entertained long enough for you to drink your coffee while it's still hot.

Unboxing: A Moment of Pure Joy

Opening the box felt like Christmas morning, except this time, Santa remembered that moms exist too. Inside, I found a treasure trove of self-care essentials just for me (cue happy tears), alongside carefully selected, developmentally appropriate goodies for my little sidekick, Evy.

For Me: Because Moms Deserve Nice Things

Think of the last time you treated yourself. Can’t remember? Same. Bloom & Rise totally gets that, which is why my box included the kind of self-care gems that make you feel like a whole human again—luxurious skincare, indulgent treats, and calming wellness items that scream "you deserve this." Because, spoiler alert: you do.

For Evy: Fun Meets Functionality

Evy’s stash was equally impressive—activity books designed to engage her curious little mind and a ridiculously adorable cow plushie that might just be the MVP of comfort objects. The best part? This clever little cow can be warmed up in the microwave or cooled in the freezer, making it the perfect snuggle buddy for any mood (or meltdown). Whether she needs cozy cuddles or a soothing chill after a big adventure, this stuffie has her covered.

Why This Box Is a Game-Changer

Bloom & Rise isn’t just another subscription box—it’s a love letter to moms who give their all and deserve a little (or a lot) of TLC in return. It’s thoughtfully designed to bring joy to both mama and babe, making self-care not just a dream but a reality.

So, if you’re a mom looking for a little extra love in your mailbox each month—or need the perfect gift for a fellow mama—you need this box in your life. Trust me, your future self (and your happy toddler) will thank you.

Check out Bloom & Rise here and get ready for your new favorite delivery!

Tiny Tastebuds, Big Flavors: Mini Quinoa and Veggie Fritters with Avocado Cream

Welcome to the ultimate guide for bougie moms who want to treat their tiny tots to a gourmet meal that’s as stylish as it is delicious. Because let’s face it, just because your toddler is still mastering the art of walking doesn’t mean their palate should be limited to chicken nuggets and mac ‘n’ cheese. Let’s elevate mealtime with a recipe that’s toddler-friendly yet sophisticated enough to satisfy even the most discerning mini-foodie.

Who says toddlers can’t appreciate a touch of luxury in their meals? These Mini Quinoa and Veggie Fritters are the perfect blend of healthy grains and veggies with a creamy avocado dip to make them feel oh-so-special. They’re bite-sized, fun to eat, and packed with nutrients to keep things nutritious.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup cooked quinoa

- 1/2 cup grated zucchini

- 1/2 cup grated carrot

- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper

- 1/4 cup finely chopped spinach

- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

- 2 large eggs, beaten

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Olive oil for frying

For the Avocado Cream:

- 1 ripe avocado

- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt

- 1 tablespoon lime juice

- Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Fritters:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grated zucchini, grated carrot, chopped red bell pepper, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

2. **Form the Fritters:** Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form into small patties. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

3. **Cook the Fritters:** Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the fritters in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. **Make the Avocado Cream:** While the fritters are cooking, prepare the avocado cream. In a small bowl, mash the avocado with a fork. Stir in the Greek yogurt and lime juice until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt.

5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Arrange the fritters on a chic platter and serve with the avocado cream on the side for dipping. Watch your toddler’s face light up with delight!

Bonus Points

Presentation is Key: Serve these delectable fritters on a chic platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Even toddlers appreciate a well-presented meal (or at least their moms do).

Toddler-Friendly Utensils: Use fun, colorful toddler utensils to make the meal more appealing and interactive.

Pair with a Fancy Beverage: No, not champagne—think more along the lines of a refreshing fruit-infused water served in a cute sippy cup.

There you have it, a gourmet recipe that’s toddler-friendly and fit for a luxury mom’s kitchen. These Mini Quinoa and Veggie Fritters with Avocado Cream are sure to be a hit with your little one, and who knows, they might even become a staple at your next sophisticated playdate. Because when it comes to feeding our little darlings, only the best will do.

**Ready to try this recipe? Share your toddler’s reaction in the comments below and let’s swap tips on making gourmet meals for our little gourmands!**