When Hard Truths Sneak Up on You: Finding Courage to Trust Your Instincts in Motherhood
When hard truths creep in quietly, motherhood becomes a mirror of strength, instinct, and conviction. In this honest reflection, I share my journey through community, parenting choices, and how I decided what was right for my family.
Best Baby Products: What I Actually Needed Before Baby
Preparing for a baby can feel like an exam you can’t ace. This honest guide shares the must-have products that truly earned a spot in our routine—why I chose a backpack diaper bag, how the Baby Brezza simplified night feeds, the Inglesina portable high chair we take everywhere, our Nuna Mixx stroller, the TushBaby I still use, and the BabyBjörn bouncer for newborn days—plus practical first-time mom tips to keep things simple.
How to Start Introducing Solids: A Real Mom’s Guide to Beginning Baby’s First Foods
Starting solids can feel overwhelming when you’re a first-time mom. From knowing how to start introducing solids to choosing between baby-led weaning or spoon feeding, the learning curve is real. In this post, I share my personal journey of starting solids at 6 months, the products and tips that made it easier, and how to introduce solid food to an infant with confidence.
20 Questions with Carlie Stanley – An Expat Mom in Cape Town
Behind the motherhood tips and Cape Town favorites, there’s the everyday Carlie. In this 20-question Q&A, I open up about childhood memories, expat life in South Africa, motherhood challenges, marriage lessons, and dreams for the future. It’s a candid glimpse into the woman behind The MODE—equal parts raw, polished, and real.
The Best Lash Growth Serum – My Lash Secret
Long, fluttery lashes don’t have to come from extensions or falsies. After years of trial and error, I finally found the best lash growth serum that actually works: LiLash. Within weeks, my lashes grew longer, thicker, and naturally fuller—without the glue, upkeep, or endless salon appointments. If you’ve ever wondered do lash serums work or which lash serums that actually work are worth your money, this is the one product I’ll never give up.
My 7-Minute Everyday Makeup Tutorial for Beginners
Want a fresh, polished look without spending hours in front of the mirror? This easy makeup tutorial for beginners breaks down my 7-minute everyday routine using simple, natural makeup ideas anyone can follow. From lightweight foundation to quick eye brightening tricks, I share the products and steps that make my natural makeup routine effortless. Perfect for busy mornings, moms on the go, or anyone searching for an easy makeup tutorial that delivers a glow without the fuss.
Vineyards in Cape Town: Constantia Glen, Chic & Scenic
Constantia Glen is a hidden gem among vineyards in Cape Town, where elegant architecture meets world-class wines and breathtaking scenery. With unforgettable views, refined food pairings, and an atmosphere of effortless sophistication, it’s one of the best vineyards South Africa has to offer.
Natural Psoriasis Treatment: How Chaga Mushrooms Helped Me
Living with psoriasis can feel overwhelming when traditional treatments don’t bring relief. After months of flareups and failed steroid creams, I discovered a natural psoriasis treatment that truly changed everything: Chaga mushrooms. Packed with antioxidants and powerful anti-inflammatory properties, Chaga worked with my body to calm symptoms, clear my skin, and restore my confidence. In this post, I share my full journey—how I got rid of psoriasis flareups, my exact at-home routine, and why Chaga might be one of the most effective natural remedies for psoriasis.
Tallow and Honey Balm: My Newest Skincare Obsession
Curious about tallow and honey balm? I was skeptical too—until I tried it. This nutrient-rich honey tallow balm combines grass-fed beef tallow and raw honey for deeply nourishing, non-toxic skincare. Here’s how it transformed my routine and why it’s worth adding to yours.
What It’s Really Like Living Abroad: My Move from the U.S. to Cape Town, South Africa
Wondering what living abroad is really like? Here’s my experience moving to South Africa as an American mom. From visas and shipping pets to daily expat life in Cape Town, this is what you need to know before starting your own adventure.