This week, Emily and Darcy are diving into a big transition — going back to work after maternity leave. We’re getting real about what our maternity leave actually looked like (length, pay, and all the logistics), whether we ever thought about staying home, and what that emotional first day back was really like. We’re sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between. Plus, we’ve got some honest tips for that first day back to work - because whether you’re feeling excited, anxious, or totally...
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This week, Emily and Darcy are diving into a big transition — going back to work after maternity leave. We’re getting real about what our maternity leave actually looked like (length, pay, and all the logistics), whether we ever thought about staying home, and what that emotional first day back was really like. We’re sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between. Plus, we’ve got some honest tips for that first day back to work - because whether you’re feeling excited, anxious, or totally...
This week, Emily and Darcy are diving into a big transition — going back to work after maternity leave. We’re getting real about what our maternity leave actually looked like (length, pay, and all the logistics), whether we ever thought about staying home, and what that emotional first day back was really like. We’re sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between. Plus, we’ve got some honest tips for that first day back to work - because whether you’re feeling excited, anxious, or totally...
In this episode of the Little Ones and Messy Buns podcast, Alyx and Shelby chat with Leanne and Scott Cruce, the founders of Love Letters, a local Kansas City brand. They discuss the journey of starting Love Letters, the challenges of running a business while being parents, and the importance of community and support. The conversation highlights the brand's unique approach to fashion, their mobile boutique truck, and the balance between work and family life. **Disclaimer: We are so sor...
In this heartfelt episode, Emily and Alyx sit down with Joee—one of the beloved daughters of TikTok’s @Okiemomof5—for a candid conversation about growing up in the spotlight of social media. Joee opens up about: What it’s really like growing up onlineThe challenges that come with social media and how she navigates themHer dreams and goals for the futureThe important role her parents play in supporting and guiding herWhether you're a mama raising a teenage daughter or simply a fan of Joee’s vi...
Welcome to the emotional rollercoaster that is life with a threenager! In this episode, Alyx and Sarah dive into the chaos, comedy, and cuddles that come with raising a 3-year-old who thinks they're 13. From sudden meltdowns over the wrong color cup to surprisingly deep conversations about life, we explore the daily drama and unexpected joys of this wild stage. Grab your coffee (and maybe your noise-canceling headphones) — it's threenager time. Send us a text
Do you ever wish you could go back to your "glory days" in college? Join Emily and Shelby this week as they do just that! This listener-requested episode covers all of our favorite college memories: joining a sorority, enjoying meals at the campus cafeteria, recruitment, education classes and more. Grab a drink and enjoy reliving a simpler time! Send us a text
Ever wonder what it would be like to raise kids in a different country? Today we are chatting with one of our sorority sisters, Leslie, who moved to Australia to study abroad and never looked back! Tune in to hear Leslie's home birth story and differences between maternity leave and postnatal support. (Can you imagine what it would be like to have a mom-support group handed to you post birth?!) We also chat about the differences in childcare between Australia and the US, cultural differences ...
This week’s episode is all about moving with kids. Alyx, Darcy and Emily open up about the unique challenges that come with relocating a family—whether it’s across town or to a new state. They share personal stories, helpful tips they’ve learned along the way, and thoughtful ways you can support friends or loved ones going through this big transition. If you're in the middle of a move (or know someone who is), this episode is full of insight and encouragement. Send us a text The BriefAll your...
Fall is here! Join Sarah and Shelby this week as they take you on a tour of fall activities throughout Kansas City. From pumpkin patches to fall festivals, you are sure to find some great recommendations for your family. Happy Fall! Send us a text
In this episode, we dive into the many milestones that come with raising kids—from the big, celebratory moments to the quiet, often overlooked ones. We reflect on the milestones that made parenting feel a little easier, and the ones that were unexpectedly emotional or tough to accept. Join us as we share personal stories, laughs, and honest conversations about what it really feels like to watch your child grow—step by step. Send us a text
In this heartwarming episode of Little Ones and Messy Buns, join Alyx, Kara, and Shelby as they sit down with the inspiring TikTok sensation, Tara, also known as Okiemomof5. Dive into a candid conversation about building a supportive family environment, overcoming personal challenges, and the joys and struggles of motherhood. Tara shares her journey from her own challenging childhood to creating a loving home for her five children, offering insights and encouragement for moms everywhere. Tune...
Should you give your kids an allowance? What are the options for investing your kids' money? And where on earth do you get started with estate planning? This week Jess and Darcy sit down to talk about all things kids and money. Listen to them chat about the family economy methodology they both have adopted from Simply on Purpose! They also discuss where they set aside money that is gifted to their kids, thoughts on 529s and paying for education, how they talk about money with their kids, will...
This week we welcome a special guest: Janet, Shelby's mom!! Shelby's sister has autism and Janet has worked in special education for 18 years. She spent 15 of those years in an early childhood setting and worked with lots of students with autism. Janet shares what autism is, how to get your child a diagnosis and additional services like speech and occupational therapy. Whether your child has autism or not, this is an educational episode with tips for all parents! Send us a t...
Have you ever wished for a teacher in your best friend group chat? Here’s your chance! Join us this week as Alyx, Emily, and Kara dive into YOUR questions for teachers. Send us a text
This week, Sarah and Alyx dive deep into the challenges of motherhood while navigating loss and grief. Sarah shares her journey of raising little ones and coping with heartache after losing her mom as a young adult. They discuss how to talk to kids about death, handling grief as a family, and what healing can look like. Send us a text
This week join Darcy, Emily and Shelby as we discuss making time for yourself as a mom. It can be so hard to juggle being a mom while maintaining your own hobbies and interests. We will share our personal favorite “me time” activities, small ways to get started and how to find pockets of time for yourself. You got this, mama! Send us a text
We’re back from our break and ready to talk summer! Kara, Sarah and Shelby sit down this week to talk about summer in Kansas City. Get ready to dive into the best summer activities whether you have infants, toddlers, school-age children or a mix! We share what activities are worth the money and some of our favorite affordable places for kids. Send us a text
Summer days can be a blast, but they can also feel endless! In this week's episode, Shelby and Alyx dive into how they keep a schedule, share their favorite Kansas City places to visit and suggest fun activities to do at home. Send us a text
Are you a Mama debating whether to send your little one to Kindergarten next year or hold off? You’re not alone! Jess and Kara dive deep into their experiences of waiting a year before stepping into the elementary world. Send us a text
In this week's episode, Darcy and Sarah chat with Shanna about how her blog and IG started, finding time for yourself as a mom, making time for your marriage after kids, becoming a medical mom, and more. You’re not going to want to miss this discussion with one of our favorite people to follow on Instagram! Send us a text
This week, Emily and Darcy are diving into a big transition — going back to work after maternity leave. We’re getting real about what our maternity leave actually looked like (length, pay, and all the logistics), whether we ever thought about staying home, and what that emotional first day back was really like. We’re sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between. Plus, we’ve got some honest tips for that first day back to work - because whether you’re feeling excited, anxious, or totally...
