1. Prioritize and Plan

The first step in achieving balance is to set clear priorities. Take a moment to identify what matters most to you and your family. This might include your job, your child’s education, your health, or quality family time. Once you’ve determined your top priorities, create a schedule or to-do list that reflects them. To us, this includes opting out of some activities during the week or on weekends to have more family time and get together instead of constantly running from one activity to another!

2. Efficient Time Management

Efficient time management is essential. Use tools like calendars, planners, or apps to schedule your day and stick to it. Allocate specific time slots for work, school activities, exercise, self-care, and dinner preparations. Having a structured plan will help you stay on top of everything. My motto has been: If it’s not on my calendar, it’s not happening. We also created a shared “family” calendar with a family email where all the school and kid stuff go to. Anything that is a related to the whole family also goes there so we’re all on the same page.

3. Delegate and Ask for Help

Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks when possible. Whether it’s enlisting your partner, family members, or hiring help for specific chores, sharing the load can reduce your stress. Remember, it’s okay to ask for assistance when you need it. They used to say it takes a village and we’re missing this village. I created my own little village with trusted friends I can lean on for various things or anything! And they sure can lean on me. It does make all the difference!

4. Streamline Meals

Cooking doesn’t have to be a time-consuming affair. Plan your weekly meals in advance, and some might consider batch cooking on weekends. Crockpot meals and one-pot recipes can be lifesavers on busy weekdays. Involve your kids in meal prep to make it a fun family activity. Honestly, my savior has been FreshPrep in British Columbia! If you use this link: you’ll get a credit of $42 (and I’ll get $15). I can’t explain to you the difference this made! We chose 4 meals a week for two people but found it enough for 2 and a 6 year old. It’s also healthy and takes away the planning of am I eating enough veggies, is my plate balanced, etc. As for cost, we found it better in terms of how groceries now have skyrocketed and we don’t need to go often to the store and therefore, don’t buy things we don’t need just because they’re placed on a certain shelf under a certain spotlight #guilty haha

5. Exercise with the Family

Incorporate exercise into family time by going for walks or bike rides together. This way, you can stay active while spending quality time with your children. Additionally, many gyms offer childcare services that can allow you to work out without worrying about your kids. Consistent short walks with the kids can also be the answer not only for exercise, but also mental well-being. Especially if you have easy access to a park or nature.

6. Self-Care Is Non-Negotiable

Don’t neglect self-care. You’re better equipped to handle the daily chaos when you’re well-rested and rejuvenated. Schedule “me-time” for activities you enjoy, whether it’s reading, taking a bath, or pursuing a hobby. A counselor might also be a good idea to schedule once a month. I take some of my me-time during “daddy-daughter” time! Win-win-win!

7. Say No When Necessary

While it’s important to be involved in your child’s school and activities or social gatherings, it’s equally important to know your limits. Don’t overcommit yourself. It’s okay to say no or take a step back when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Saying no or “maybe next time” is a good practice to prioritize yourself. Follow the trend of JOMO: Joy of Missing Out. lol

8. Embrace Technology

Leverage technology for convenience. Use meal delivery services, online grocery shopping, and educational apps for your child. These can save you time and energy. Knowing how you can benefit from technology and how to avoid its side effects is your best ally. For example: now while we watch Bluey (who doesn’t!), after every episode my kid tells me what she learned and o tell her what o learned. We use it as entertainment and a learning opportunity. and sometimes we connect it to daily life situations.

9. Carve Out Quality Family Time

Quality time with your family is precious. Make an effort to disconnect from work and screens during designated family hours. Create traditions and special moments that your child will cherish. Ours are things like a game (or two) of chess, movie nights, Lego, a walk, a visit to the library, etc.

10. Practice Flexibility and Forgiveness

Finally and most importantly, remember that it’s okay to have days when things don’t go as planned. Be flexible and forgiving towards yourself. Perfection is not the goal; balance and well-being are.

Balancing work, family, and self-care is an ongoing journey. It’s normal to have moments of imbalance, but by implementing these strategies, you can navigate the challenges of being a working parent with more confidence and grace.

Remember, you’re doing an incredible job, and finding balance is achievable with the right mindset and support. We’re in this together!

For me, the real “growing up” didn’t kick in until I hit my thirties. And then, boom, parenthood landed on my doorstep. It was like someone hit the fast-forward button on life. Why the sudden rush? Maybe because the world in 2016/2017 looked a little crazier than usual, with hatred out in the open. I had to toughen up, and I wasn’t even remotely prepared for it. But that’s life, right? You’re just going along, and suddenly the world gets smaller, darker, and, frankly, less hospitable. How did we end up here?

But then, my little one started growing up, and I decided to hit the pause button on “being a responsible adult.” No work, just pure quality time with her. And it was an eye-opener. Watching her tiny, unapologetic self was like time travel. She said “no” without hesitation when she didn’t want something, took her sweet time in the bathroom, and made friends by simply walking up to another kid. It was a lesson in going back to our primal selves.

I thought, “Hey, I want in on this!” So now, I’m all about saying “no” when it doesn’t align with my desires, taking my time in the bathroom (no more rushing, please), and savoring meals without making a fuss about every dropped piece.

On our way to school or work, if my little rebel isn’t in the mood to venture out, I shout, “Me too!” and I mean it. Who decided we have to do all these grown-up things anyway? Wouldn’t it be nice to have a little whine and not be judged for it? Because, really, we don’t have to be tough all the time.

Now, my favorite questions are directed at my mini philosopher: “What do you think?” “Why is this like that?” “Want to jump in that pile of leaves?” “Sleep in my bed or yours tonight?” I crave her perspective, intelligence, and curiosity, and I’m not alone. We all need a little more of that in our lives. It’s time to shed the grown-up facade and jump into muddy puddles or dive headfirst into a pile of autumn leaves. So what if the other grown-ups call us crazy? After all, who decided we had to be all serious and composed all the time? Let’s dance in the middle of the road because, why the heck not?

1. Fostering Independent Thinkers

Critical thinking empowers children to think independently. By teaching them to evaluate information, analyze arguments, and assess evidence, we equip them with the tools to form their own opinions and make informed decisions. This skill is invaluable in an age where they are bombarded with information from various sources.

2. Developing Problem-Solving Skills

Critical thinking encourages children to view problems as challenges to be solved rather than obstacles. When they learn to question everything, they become adept at breaking down complex issues into manageable parts, finding solutions, and thinking creatively. This problem-solving ability will serve them well in all aspects of their life.

3. Enhancing Decision-Making Abilities

In an era filled with choices, teaching kids critical thinking helps them make wise decisions. They become less susceptible to peer pressure and more confident in their choices. Encouraging them to question the motivations behind different options allows them to make decisions aligned with their values and aspirations.

4. Encouraging Curiosity

Children are naturally curious, and nurturing this curiosity is essential for their cognitive development. Encouraging them to question everything not only satisfies their curiosity but also promotes a thirst for knowledge and a lifelong love of learning. This curiosity fuels their intellectual growth and prepares them for a future where adaptability and continuous learning are crucial.

5. Preparing for the AI Age

The internet and digital technology have transformed the way we access and share information. Teaching kids critical thinking and the importance of questioning everything helps them navigate the AI landscape responsibly. They can distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources, identify bias, and protect themselves from misinformation and fake news.

6. Strengthening Communication Skills

Critical thinking goes hand in hand with effective communication. Kids who question everything tend to be better at articulating their thoughts, defending their opinions, and engaging in constructive discussions. These skills are not only valuable academically but also in building strong interpersonal relationships.

7. Fostering Empathy

Critical thinking encourages children to consider multiple perspectives and understand different viewpoints. This empathy is essential for a harmonious and inclusive society. It enables them to appreciate diversity and work effectively with others, contributing to a more compassionate and understanding world.

Teaching kids critical thinking and the importance of questioning everything is an investment in their future. It empowers them to be independent thinkers, problem solvers, and responsible citizens. Moreover, it fosters curiosity, prepares them for the challenges of the 21st century, and nurtures their empathy. By instilling these skills from an early age, we equip the next generation with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world and make a positive impact on society.

Exploring the City’s Gems:
Our layover adventure began as we touched down in Istanbul, eager to make the most of our limited time. Our first stop was the hotel, which was booked with points! Then we strolled to a nearby park and playground on our way to a local Kebap restaurant.

No visit to Istanbul is complete without indulging in its world-famous cuisine. We devoured mouthwatering Turkish kebabs at Tekin Kebap, an authentic eatery that left us craving for more. Smartly, we took an extra sandwich to our hotel, anticipating the jet lag or a late night snack! We ordered Adana Kebap plate, Urfa Kebap plate and a sandwich. Adana Kebap is spicy, Urfa was not.

Next day, we went to see the stunning Blue Mosque (a.k.a Sultanahmet camii) and Hagia Sophia, two architectural marvels that showcased Istanbul’s rich history and cultural heritage. Our daughter was fascinated by the beautiful architecture and the gardens around them. We didn’t have time to go inside but had so much fun before we walk to our breakfast place Mivan. We ordered traditional Turkish breakfast. Çilbir (breakfast of the sultans) was surprisingly delicious! It’s basically yogurt, poached eggs and butter sauce. It’s served cold/room temperature.

We then went to the iconic Galata Tower, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus. Our little one enjoyed the streets surrounding the tower.

Cats, Cats, Everywhere!:
Our daughter’s heart was captured by the abundance of adorable cats roaming the streets of Istanbul. She wanted to pet and adopt every single one of them! It was amusing to learn that the airport even had pet carriers available, sparking her imagination for a delightful yet wild idea.

Pro Tip for Turkish Airlines Passengers:
Traveling with Turkish Airlines has its perks! If you have a layover of 20+ hours with two connecting flights, you get a free hotel room to rest and recharge. For shorter layovers, they treat you to a complimentary tour of Istanbul, allowing you to make the most of your time in this amazing city.

In just 21 hours, we managed to create a lifetime of cherished memories during our layover in Istanbul. From the awe-inspiring Galata Tower to the heartwarming encounters with Istanbul’s furry feline residents, every moment was a treasure. So, if you find yourself with a layover in this magical city, take a cue from our adventure, embrace the unknown, and let the city of Istanbul enchant you and your little ones with its captivating charm. Happy travels!

Quality and Durability:
It looks like it was designed to withstand the daily activities of an active family. Crafted with high-quality materials, this rug demonstrates remarkable resilience, maintaining its vibrant colors and remaining fray-free despite the wear and tear caused by a curious child and playful pet. The quality is better than what we expected in terms of look and feel.

Stain and Spill Resistance:
Learn why Ruggable is the ultimate choice for households with young artists and unpredictable accidents. With its innovative two-piece system, including a removable top cover and nonslip rug pad, this rug offers exceptional spill resistance. From paint spills to juice mishaps, easily remove the top cover and toss it into the washing machine, while the secure rug pad beneath ensures safety and stability during creative endeavors. We did spill coffee and juice. I did not have to put it in the washer, just scrubbed a bit and it’s all gone. The pad under the rug was all dry too!

Ease of Maintenance:
This rug is machine-washable, and the top cover emerges from the wash looking as good as new—no shrinkage or color loss. With its quick-drying nature, you can promptly put the rug back in place, minimizing disruptions to your daily activities. Some mentioned that it shrinks but it was not our experience.

Style and Design:
The aesthetic appeal of the Ruggable Kaden Amber Red Rug enhanced our living space with its captivating design. The warm and elegant red hues seamlessly blended with the existing decor, while the charming mix of geometric shapes added visual interest without overwhelming the room. It definitely transformed the space into a cozy and inviting haven for our family and guests.

In our experience, the Ruggable Kaden Amber Red Rug 9′ x 12′ has exceeded expectations, making it a superb choice for families with children and pets. Its exceptional durability, stain resistance, and ease of maintenance set it apart, dispelling any doubts we had based on various reviews.

Disclaimer: Individual experiences may vary, so it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting a rug for your home.

1. Louvre Made Easy: Le Louvre—an absolute must-visit for any art-loving family. But let’s face it, navigating a massive museum with little ones in tow can be a challenge. Not anymore! As soon as we entered the  museum, our daughter had a horrible toothache! We knew we either leave or find a way to enjoy it. My husband stood on the long line to get tickets, while I took our daughter to a nearby pharmacy to get painkiller. Between the long lines outside and inside, and the toothache without a stroller (this was before renting the stroller) and the massive museum that was impossible to navigate with joy, we had to find solutions, some where for next visit:

a) Buy Tickets Online: Skip the long queues by purchasing your tickets online in advance. This way, you can breeze through the entrance and spend more time marveling at the stunning masterpieces rather than waiting in line. Time saved is more art admired! We went in June and the line was long enough to feel exhausted before we even start. When you buy your tickets online, it’s time-bound so arrive there around your time on ticket. However, from observation, there was never a line for pre-purchased tickets. Highly recommended. But if you don’t, get a bottle of water with you for waiting.

b) Borrow a Stroller: Did you know that the Louvre offers complimentary strollers for young children at their guest services? This brilliant service allows tired little legs to take a break while you explore the museum’s wonders. Say au revoir to cranky kids and hello to a stress-free art expedition! There are strollers for babies, toddlers, and wheel chairs for older folks. I cannot tell you how this changed the whole experience! While she did not sit on it much after the pain killer, she knew she could use it and it was there when we needed it the most! Also, it works as a carrier for extra stuff we brought with us.

c) Kids’ Passport with Stickers: Transform your child into a mini art detective! The Louvre offers a fun-filled activity called the “Louvre Passport.” It’s a booklet filled with challenges and stickers that guide young visitors through the museum. It’s an interactive and engaging way to keep kids entertained while discovering the art treasures. Watch their faces light up as they match the stickers and become honorary museum experts! Our daughter’s favourite floors were the Ancient Egyptian and the Islamic Art. Of course, it was a joy seeing the Mona Lisa but the Mummy was the highlight!
BONUS: cafes and restaurants inside the Louvre makes it easier to feed hungry kids without the hustle of bringing snacks.

2. Stroller Rental Magic: We had our 5 year old daughter and Jet Kids Bed Box that we did use as a stroller at the airport. We thought we wouldn’t need a real stroller because she turned 5. We were wrong! But we were already without a stroller! I had the Jetsetter stroller by Graco and I cannot say enough words about how awesome it was. Thinking we no longer needed it, I sold it before our trip. We found ourselves in a city with no stroller and a sleepy child! Ah, the magic of stroller rentals! Renting a stroller can be a game-changer for parents exploring the city. No more lugging around your own bulky stroller or dealing with tired little legs. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport offers rental services where you can conveniently pick up a stroller for the day or week, allowing your family to explore the city in style and comfort. Trust us, your tired arms will thank you! We also were lucky with a huge discount! Where to find it? face Sheraton Hotel at the airport, Terminal 2C et 2E. You can even reach them even if you’re not traveling. We used this stroller to go around Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. This place also stores luggage but you don’t need to pay for storage if you book a hotel room outside the airport, even if you check out.

3. Hotel Luggage Storage: Now, let’s talk about the big luggage dilemma. We know how tricky it can be to navigate the city with cumbersome suitcases while chasing after energetic kiddos. Here’s a nifty trick: if you’re planning to explore other European destinations during your week-long stay, consider leaving your big luggage at the hotel. Most hotels in Paris provide luggage storage facilities for free, allowing you to travel light and hassle-free. Just pack a smaller bag with essentials, and bid farewell to the burden of hauling heavy suitcases across train stations and airports. We even used this service after we checked out! I recommend you check with your hotel first. Probably different hotels have different rules.

Paris is a city of magic, art, and unforgettable experiences. By implementing these three savvy travel hacks, you’ll unlock a world of convenience and joy for your family. Rent a stroller to explore the charming streets, leave your big luggage at the hotel to travel light, and make your Louvre visit a breeze with online tickets, borrowed strollers, and a kids’ passport filled with stickers. Bon voyage!

1. Airport Awesomeness: Picture this: bustling airports, cranky kids, and bags scattered everywhere. It’s the stuff of nightmares, right? Well, the Jet Kids Bed Box swooped in like a superhero and saved the day! With its spacious interior, it swallowed up all our daughter’s travel essentials, eliminating the need for extra bags. Equipped with wheels, this mighty little companion glided alongside us, making us the envy of every tired parent in the terminal. She rode on it and had so much fun! We enjoyed the compliments from other parents too! lol
2. Airborne Comfort Zone: Fasten your seatbelts, folks, because we turned our kid’s economy class into business! We transformed it into a cozy leg-rest extension that gave her ample space to stretch out and relax. No more dangling feet or squirming discomfort! The adjustable lid magically transformed into a tray table, creating a dedicated playground for our little munchkin. Snacks, games, and surprises—it was her personal entertainment hub, complete with a built-in mattress for a sky-high slumber party!
   
3. Bed Box Joyride: But the fun didn’t stop there! As we landed in vibrant cities, the Jet Kids Bed Box transformed into a nifty set of wheels, unleashing our daughter’s inner speed demon. With her Bed Box “ride” in tow, she zoomed through crowded streets like a mini racecar driver. Maneuvering narrow sidewalks was a breeze, and our girl felt like the ultimate explorer, charting new territories with her trusty Bed Box companion by her side. I have to say it was challenging on some old pavements but otherwise it was very helpful, especially with the jetlag whine.
4. The Birthday Bonanza: Now, here’s where things got really exciting. Our adventure coincided with our daughter’s 5th birthday, and we turned the Bed Box into a treasure chest of surprises! We hid special treats and presents inside, creating a mini birthday extravaganza mid-flight. Her eyes sparkled with joy as she discovered the hidden gems, adding an extra sprinkle of magic to an already incredible journey. Talk about celebrating in style! We also used the Crew backpack. I love the different compartments in there and the small aviation touches. Top quality too.
5. Safety First, Fun Always: As parents, safety is a top priority, and the Jet Kids Bed Box didn’t disappoint. It sailed through security checkpoints with flying colors, meeting all international cabin baggage regulations, even with airlines that were not on the Jet Kids airline list. We used Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, and Air Canada. Its sturdy construction and reinforced corners gave us peace of mind, knowing that our little explorer’s belongings were safe and sound. We could focus on making memories, worry-free!

Conclusion: Who knew a simple travel accessory could inject so much adventure into our journey? And so much comfort! The Jet Kids Bed Box revolutionized our daughter’s travel experience. Starting from home with the stickers she chose to put on the Box to the hidden surprises, the fun at airport and comfort at 40,000 feet in the air. It’s the ultimate travel companion for adventurous families, delivering convenience, comfort, and boundless fun. We also took it to camping and it was fun and functional! This is an honest review. Not sponsored whatsoever!

1. Chalk it Up: Grab some sidewalk chalk and write a note that will make someone smile. It could be an inspiring quote or a simple message of positivity.
2. Helping Hand: Extend a helping hand to a friend in need. Whether they need assistance with homework, chores, or just someone to listen, your support will mean the world to them.
3. Sandwich Surprise: Whip up a delicious sandwich for a family member or lend a hand in setting up the dinner table. Extra brownie points if you do both!
4. Parental Appreciation: Leave a heartfelt thank you note for your parents. Express your gratitude for their love, support, and everything they do for you.
5. Compliment Bonanza: Spread the love by giving three genuine compliments to your friends or family members. Let them know how special they are to you.
6. Smile Galore: Brighten up everyone’s day by sharing smiles with friends and family. Remember, a smile is contagious!
7. Trail Clean-Up: Take a stroll on a nearby trail and pick up any trash you find along the way. Help keep our environment clean and beautiful.
8. Planting Joy: Plant a seed or a tree. Watch it grow and flourish, just like the kindness in your heart.
9. Lights Off: Make an effort to turn off lights in rooms that aren’t being used. Encourage others to do the same and save energy.
10. Toy Donation: Spread joy to those in need by donating toys to a charity. Your gently-used toys can bring happiness to other children.
11. Paws for Kindness: Show some love to our furry friends by petting an animal. Their wagging tails and purrs will melt your heart. Visit a local shelter.
12. Special Bond: Take a moment to tell someone how special they are to you. Your words of appreciation can brighten their day.
13. Door Holder: Practice good manners and hold the door open for someone. A small act of kindness can make a big difference.
14. Share the Joy: Share a special toy with a friend. The joy of playing together is priceless.
15. Tidy Up Time: Surprise everyone by cleaning up your room without being asked. A tidy room means more space for fun and relaxation.
16. Knowledge Sharing: Teach someone something new. Share your skills and knowledge to empower others.
17. Homemade Love: Get crafty and make a homemade gift for someone. A personalized present shows thoughtfulness and love.
18. Contagious Smiles: Smile at everybody you meet. Your smile can brighten someone’s day and create a ripple effect of positivity.
19. Food for Thought: Donate food to a local charity or offer it to a homeless person. Fill their hearts and bellies with nourishment.
20. Patience Prevails: Practice extra patience while waiting for something or someone, all with a smile on your face. Patience is a virtue!
21. Bookworm Vibes: Share a book recommendation with your friends. Let them know about a book you’ve enjoyed and why they might love it too.
22. Active Listening: Practice good listening skills throughout the day. Give your full attention to others and show them that their words matter.
23. Skill Support: Help a friend, sibling, or family member learn a new skill. Your guidance and encouragement can unlock their potential.
24. Teacher Appreciation: Write a heartfelt note to a teacher who has made a positive impact on your life. Let them know how much you appreciate their hard work and dedication.
25. Water Wisdom: Save water by turning off the tap while brushing your teeth. Every drop counts!
26. Feathered Friends: Spread kindness to our feathered friends by feeding the birds. Watch them enjoy their meal and feel a sense of connection with nature.
27. Friend Appreciation: Take a moment to tell your friends what you like about them. Celebrate their unique qualities and the joy they bring to your life.
28. Community Gratitude: Say thank you to a community worker—a police officer, firefighter, nurse, or any other person serving the community. Their efforts deserve recognition.
29. Living Room Love: Tidy up the living room without anyone asking. Create a cozy and inviting space where everyone can gather and enjoy each other’s company.
30. Kindness Always: Above all, remember to choose kindness in every situation. Let kindness be your guiding light, spreading love and positivity wherever you go.

Join Jenna in these 30 good deeds and make this Ramadan a month of kindness, compassion, and joy. Share your experiences with her and let the world witness the power of small acts of goodness. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter world for all.

Ah, friendship, that’s a topic that never gets old. Well, maybe it sounds cheesy, but hear me out—it’s actually pretty important. In fact, it’s dangerous territory!

Over the years, I’ve become more mindful of who I let into my inner circle. Sure, I make plenty of connections, but true friends? Those are a rare breed. It’s not about being picky, but rather about finding peace of mind.

Lately, I’ve distanced myself from people who don’t align with my values. It’s crucial for my family and me to surround ourselves with friends who possess these qualities:

• Positive; they have a positive look at everything and everyone; they’re emotional sometimes but always see the light at the end of the tunnel.
• Respectful; they don’t judge others, they don’t gossip about others, and always say something nice or nothing at all. They also respect animals and the environment.
• Supportive; we lift each other higher, not push ourselves down. In bad times, in ideas, in new ventures and plans or even weekend plans! We encourage each other to be better in every way.
• Add value to our lives, be it a book they’ve read, a thought they came across, a new idea that is too crazy and will change the world!
• Non-materialistic; My husband and I are trying to live a minimalistic life, at least compared to our circle. We fail many times, especially with a toddler girl with a tendency to be materialistic (haha! it’s true!) We try, and it’s important to have people around us who don’t run after things and keep stacking stuff because they’re cheap or nice.
• Confident and independent, having lived abroad for some time, we became very independent in the sense that we don’t wait for anyone’s approval of who we are or what we choose to be. It’s essential to surround ourselves with not high maintenance and not looking for reassurance of our friendship or love every second. We can be different, which definitely adds to our friendship and does not take away from it.

As much as it’s important to surround yourself with people with the above traits, it’s also important to stay away from people who are the opposite. No one wants negativity in their lives, even if it comes from the closest person to you. I don’t want to hear who did what because I’m busy with what I want to be and do and what my kid wants to be. It’s not easy. Actually, it’s tough to resist these people because what they are is easy and fun! But also momentary and not productive.

The next time your friend is negative or judgmental or not respectful or supportive, tell them to stop. Help them and yourself to be better. Lift yourselves higher.

I’m thankful for old friends and new, those who taught me to be better by setting an example and their support and encouragement.

This is one of the most exciting yet most terrifying things to look forward to! When our daughter was 8.5 months old, we went from San Francisco to Honolulu, Hawaii. It was only 5 hours plane trip each way but felt like 50! You can’t blame a baby who most likely was misunderstood, can you?

We thought we got this under control, but we found some mistakes that we can avoid in our return trip and, most importantly, a 14+ hour plane trip a week after to Istanbul, Turkey! So I will start by listing the mistakes we think we have made that made our first flight with a baby not very pleasant to us, parents:

• We haven’t booked our seats in advance. My husband was 10 rows away from me and sat next to an old couple who, of course, wouldn’t part. And to my aisle seat was a teenage couple who spent most of the trip kissing. We did not dare to ask any couple to move.
• We packed too many toys to entertain miss Jenna on the trip. We took two mosquito zappers that she loved as toys, favourite stories, teddy bears, and stuffed animals. We also rented an “iPad” on the plane to play some cartoons for her. Was she interested in any of what I mentioned? Nope. None.
• We picked a travel time when Jenna is most active. This resulted in an active baby in a plane. This isn’t what parents hope for or want.

We felt extremely overwhelmed, but the crew and passengers made it extremely easy on us! When I apologized for the teenage couple, the guy said: “No, no, it’s ok, we’re all going to Hawaii, we can’t complain.” Grandparents on the row behind me gave me their seats most of the trip, and the grandma even took Jenna for 15 minutes that felt like 15 good hours *angel face*. Many passengers complemented Jenna and us at the end of the trip, a few of them we even met a day later in Honolulu, and they played with Jenna! With these mistakes and help; here are the ratings for the trip:

Parents rating: 7/10
Crew ratings (from appearance): 9/10
Passengers rating (from feedback): 10/10

Our return trip was by far much easier with 10/10 ratings from all views! Here is how we fixed our mistakes:

• We booked our seats next to each other! with one seat in the middle, hoping no one would want to sit in between two people (Again, can’t blame desperate parents!) Eventually, no one booked this seat, and we had three seats for ourselves.
• We have upgraded to a premium economy class! While this option is not available on many planes/trips, we’re glad it was available on our return trip to San Francisco. It really made a huge difference; they were front seats with plenty of legroom, semi-reclining seats,  and closer to the exit!
• All toys into checked-in baggage except one toy in the carry-on bags. It was the most entertaining toy, but she did not even bother. She preferred flipping through the plane’s magazines.
• Our return trip was midday, and it was naptime for our baby. She spent most of the time sleeping on two seats of the three available for us! Which was very convenient for us and everyone.

Bonus: Breastfeeding is a lifesaver!

I will write another post for our 14+ trip with 3.5 hours layover then almost 3 hours trip.