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Your Guide to a Night Out in Downtown Utica

By
AntonetteSlobodian
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It’s time for some summer loving with all of your ladies! Grab your girls (or good guy friends) and take over downtown Utica. That’s right–only a 45-minute drive from the city! 

If you haven’t traveled to downtown Utica yet, it has such a charming, quaint, small town feel. Utica caters to anyone and everyone! The city offers indoor and outdoor activities, live entertainment, and a variety of cuisines that will satisfy everyone’s palette. And we cannot forget all the beer and wineries to die for! 

Host Utica Photo: @qualityofwifeandboys

“A loving relationship is a wanting to celebrate, communicate, and know another’s heart and soul.” -Leo F. Buscaglia

We all need to celebrate each other’s big moments, little moments, or just moments. Having the connection with true friends that will tell you the truth even when it hurts, is called friendship! I have friends from the womb, from high school, from college, from past employers . . . especially after the pandemic, when I became a stay-at-home mom and I branched out to find friends who loved the same things that I love!

“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: ‘What! You too! I thought I was the only one’!” -C.S. Lewis

It’s so important to make time for the people you love and who love you too. So, get ready for a fabulous night out with your gal pals. Here’s a fun itinerary to make sure you have an unforgettable time in downtown Utica!

Vino & Vibes Wine Bar | 7740 Auburn Road, Utica

Start the night off early with a pre-cocktail or wine and some tunes at Vino & Vibes Wine Bar. With its chic modern industrial design and a fantastic selection of international wines, beer, and cocktails, it’s the perfect spot for you and your girlfriends to catch up. Enjoy sharing the latest drama and trying to solve all the world’s problems together, one sip at a time!

Host | 7759 Auburn Road, Utica

After all the chatting and laughing about kids, husbands, families, and life in general, it’s time to embark on a fabulous dinner adventure right across the street at Host Utica. Even though you’re in Michigan, dining at Host feels like you’re on a vacation. Because yes, we all need that getaway vibe without actually getting away every now and then!

Host is uniquely special because they bring in new and upcoming chefs every three months. Each chef brings their own extraordinary flair, making your dinner an experience you’ll be talking about for days!

Mr. Miguel’s | 7636 Auburn Road, Utica

Ready for tequila shots, anyone? If you’re feeling daring, let’s head down the street to Mr. Miguel’s and make the most of the night—whether we go all out or keep it chill. With a 15-year-old and a 9-year-old at home, it’s a relief not to worry about babysitters or baby stuff anymore. But honestly, the idea of a hangover? No, thank you!

So, I’m embracing a new (or should I say, because I am now older) mom method: taking it easy, having fun in moderation, and enjoying every moment. Here’s to a fabulous, balanced night out!

The Locker Room Saloon | 7790 Auburn Road, Utica

Wow, what an amazing night so far! But let’s be honest—only the boring moms are ready to call it quits. We’re off to our next stop: the one and only Locker Room Saloon! We’re throwing it back to the good old days before we had little ones and big ones running around and gallivanting.

This bar was a blast back then, and it’s still the perfect spot for a Gal Pal Night Out. No judgment here, mama! Just you and your besties, shaking those booties and having a blast!

The best part of this night out in downtown Utica is that you have fun with the ladies who love you the most! GNO, gal pal night out, moms night out, girls just wanna have fun, sisterhood soriree, glam it up night . . . whatever you want to call it, just make sure you do it once a month. We all need it! 

After a night out on the town, donuts are a great choice for breakfast. Check out our guide to the best donuts in + around Detroit!

Detroit Mom’s Travel Series: Boston

By
shereenaduncan
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Regular date nights don’t happen as much anymore for my husband and I. Between work, three kids, and busy schedules, time for just us doesn’t get prioritized like it used to. In lieu of weekly dates, we take a few 24-hour trips a year and call those our “date nights.” My husband recently had to travel to Boston for work and neither of us had been there before, so we decided to go a few days early and have our date. Some of our requirements for these quick trips are short flight times and good weather–so Boston in June was a perfect choice.

Other than my husband already needing to go to Boston for work, Fenway Park was one of two stadiums he had left to visit before he can say he’s been to every MLB stadium in the country. While I am not the baseball enthusiast my husband is, I still had a great time exploring Boston and Fenway Park. Our unique hotel was a stones throw away from Fenway. We walked some historical sites and ate some truly amazing food.

Other than the game, we tried not to make too many plans ahead of time, and it worked out perfectly. We took a 7:00 a.m. flight out of Detroit, landed around 9:00 a.m., dropped off our bags, and began our date!

Sample Itinerary for Boston

10:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m. | Savr | 150 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA | 617-553-7287
I would go back for the seared pork belly and the cinnamon vanilla french toast alone. Combine the incredible food with the seaport waterfront view and you’ve got yourself the perfect brunch spot!

12:10-12:30 p.m. | Tatte Bakery & Cafe | 200 Pier 4 Blvd, Boston, MA | 617-765-7600
Tatte, like latte! There are several gorgeous locations. This one was walking distance from where we had brunch so it made for a great place to grab a coffee and wait for our ride share. The house latte is made is honey-halva and cardamom and I’m still dreaming about it. 

1:00-4:30 p.m. | Fenway Park | 4 Jersey St, Boston, MA | 617-226-6000
Fenway Park in comparison to Comerica Park is much smaller, so it felt less over overwhelming and like you were closer to the field. Before walking into the actual stadium, the road alongside it is closed off and filled with food vendors, souvenirs, and street performers, making it a fun spot to hang out before going inside.

Another thing I noticed was a family restroom and a mother’s room, such nice features if you’re traveling with little ones! We sat in the Dell Technologies Club–the price tag was higher but our seats were fantastic. It had a beautiful restaurant and lounge to sit down in if you wanted a break from the heat and there was never a line for the bathroom. The food and drinks we ordered from our seats were delivered to us pretty quickly! 

5:30-6:30 p.m. | Quincy Market | 4 S Market St, Boston, MA | 617-523-1300
Historical, tons of shopping, street performers, and a variety of food. What more could you want? We were on a mission for one souvenir but you could easily spend hours here. 

7:00-8:30 p.m. | Hojoko | 1271 Boylston St, Boston, MA | 617-670-0507
Don’t judge a book by its cover. This place isn’t much to look at, but the food is fantastic. I highly recommend the kimchi fried rice and the spicy tuna roll!

The Hotel You’ll Love

The Verb Hotel | 1271 Boylston St, Boston, MA | 617-566-4500
This was the PERFECT hotel for our stay. It was unlike any hotel we’ve every stayed in, which made it feel even more special for our “date.” The entire hotel is deeply themed with all things rock and roll and it backs right up to Fenway Park. The walk from our room to the game was roughly three minutes.

There are traditional rooms and then what they refer to as “backstage trailers”–that’s where we stayed. We were told that staying in our own trailer was the ultimate backstage VIP experience so we went for it. Each one is uniquely themed and there was a record player and hundreds of records to choose from, sparkling and still water, beer, snacks, and a Nespresso machine.

Another bonus that we loved was that the amazing restaurant we had dinner at was at the hotel. Breakfast isn’t anything to write home about and if you’re in the pool, you’ll have an audience as the windows of the restaurant look out to it. Other than that, it was an absolute blast to stay at.

Why You Need to Plan a 24-Hour Date

I know what you’re thinking . . . traveling to have a date night seems excessive and expensive. Hear me out. Before kids, my husband and I went out to dinner twice a week or more. Plus movie nights, concerts, weekend brunch, etc., and while each one wasn’t a high-priced item, when you tally a month’s worth, it adds up. So rather than stress out about trying to make time for a date night each week, we’ve come to terms with what this season of life looks like for us and instead focus on planning a few overnight dates a year.

Yes, we still go to dinner once in a while–but these are the dates we REALLY look forward to. The ones that feel intentional and restorative to our relationship. A full day without household responsibilities or anyone interrupting us every two minutes to look at a squirrel.

Choosing your 24-Hour Date Location

Boston made sense for us because my husband already had to go for work, so we just left a day early for our date and then I came home by myself to limit childcare needs. Last summer we went to Clearwater Beach, we’ve gone to Greektown twice, and we’ve also spent a night in both Chicago and Orlando.

One requirement we have is if we fly, we stay in the city that the airport is in. When you’re only gone for a day, you want to make the most of your time. We also try to keep the weather in mind and check for events we’d want to take part in. For instance, our Chicago trip was planned around a Broadway show I wanted to see, and Orlando was planned around a food and wine festival.

Whatever you choose, keep it fun and simple. No huge suitcases to pack or tons of plans to make. Just time away to reset, recharge, and remember why you fell in love in the first place.

What’s your favorite vacation spot? Check out our previous travel series location: Alpena!

Rollerblading: A Mom’s Path to Rejuvenation

By
China Sellers
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“Am I really about to do this?” Those were the words I chuckled to myself as I strapped on my new pair of rollerblades. It had been almost two decades since I last glided along on wheels, but on a crisp spring morning earlier this year, I was feeling ambitious. Though my initial strides were shaky, a quiet confidence stirred within me. Turns out, rollerblading wasn’t as tough as I’d psyched myself up for. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised at how decently I skated when I hit the pavement again.

As a kid, rollerblading was my ultimate joy. I remember zipping around the neighborhood, pretending I was competing in some sort of “world in-line skating championship.” Looking back on those fond nostalgic memories always brings a smile to my face.

Fun fact: I initially took up rollerblading because I wanted to be a figure skater. But the ice thing didn’t quite work out, so rollerblading became my beloved pastime. Fast forward to now, and reintroducing this hobby into my life has been incredibly rewarding.

The Two Important Truths

I’ve come to realize two important truths: leisure activities are an essential part of my well-being, and making time for myself is not only necessary but non-negotiable. As a busy mom on the go, I know how easy it is to get caught up in daily tasks and forget to prioritize “me time.” But I’m realizing now more than ever that self-care shouldn’t be pushed to the back burner.

 

One thing I really appreciate about rollerblading is how much fun it is. Some days, I literally feel like a kid again. Needless to say, I think it’s important to find things that still light us up as we get older.

Admittedly, rollerblading has reignited a sense of childlike bliss within me, which I’m so grateful for. The key is to prioritize activities that bring you delight. Even if life has shifted your attention, reviving those passions and infusing them with fresh energy could prove to be beneficial in more ways than one.

And, The Three Amazing Perks

Here are three awesome perks I’ve enjoyed since getting back on my blades:

1. Improved physical health

Rollerblading is a great way to stay active. When I hit the pavement, I can feel the burn. It’s a full-body workout that leaves me feeling strong and energized. The movement helps to tone muscles, and it definitely has contributed to my overall health and fitness. Plus, it’s low-impact and gentle on my joints, which may be a concern for some.

However, it’s worth noting that rollerblading on uneven or unstable surfaces can actually be quite harsh on your joints. So select your skating area carefully!

2. Enhanced mental well-being and creativity

I find that after a skate session, I’m better equipped to tackle challenges with a clear head and a renewed sense of focus and purpose. Rollerblading has significantly enhanced my state of being, allowing me to better embrace whatever life throws my way. When I’m out skating, I strive to be mindful and remain anchored in the present, allowing myself to fully savor the moment.

Rollerblading has been a catalyst for sparking my creativity. Whether I’m brainstorming solutions to a problem or simply taking in the scenery, I always find myself inspired in unexpected ways.

Rollerblading also fuels my imagination, making space for new ideas and inspiration to flow. As a result, I feel more prepared to tackle creative projects with renewed zest and enthusiasm.

3. Deeper connection with nature

I prefer to rollerblade outdoors because I love basking in the beauty of nature. Feeling the breeze against my skin and hearing the rustle of leaves as I glide is so refreshing. In fact, rollerblading has become somewhat of a sacred ritual for me—a source of tranquility and clarity that has deepened my bond with the world around me and revitalized my spirit.

In the meantime, when it comes to finding time for my beloved hobby, I’ve learned that I have to make it happen. No excuses–just me and the pavement, for an hour or so of pure bliss.

You know the saying about not being able to pour from an empty cup? Well, I’ve certainly felt that reality on more than one occasion. But I’ve learned that filling up your own cup first allows you to pour into others with even more vigor and vitality. I’m grateful to say that getting back on my rollerblades has been a rejuvenating and rewarding experience, always keeping my glass at least half full.

To all my fellow moms out there, I urge you to reconnect with the passions and dreams that are close to your heart. Whether it’s rollerblading, painting, gardening, or simply taking a moment for yourself, always honor your need for self-care.

Remember: a happy, fulfilled mom is more likely to radiate love and positivity in greater abundance, enriching the lives of those around her.

Self-care can take many forms. Check out our recommendations for the top wellness spots in + around Detroit to make self-care a priority.

Ice Cream Experiences You Have to Have In + Around Detroit

By
LaurenDalton
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Have you ever treated yourself to a donut sundae? How about a waffle ice cream sandwich, or a towering, overstuffed milkshake? Well, it’s time to add these delicious treats to your foodie bucket list!

We have rounded up all of the best ice cream experiences in + around Detroit, and we are pretty sure you’ll have a hard time deciding which to try first. Scroll down to discover some of the area’s best and most unique ice cream experiences that you just have to have!

Brown Dog Creamery + Dessert Bar | Farmington + Northville

Brown Dog Creamery + Dessert Bar is a foodie’s dream come true. Not only do they offer 16 staple flavors, but they have boozy milkshakes, ice cream martinis, and sorbet mimosas. If you’re looking for different, and quite possibly adventurous, dessert, this is the place to be. Hello Margarita Sorbet! Looking for vegan options? They have you covered. 33314 Grand River Ave, Farmington and 120 East Main Street, Northville

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The Creamery on Main | Armada

Head on over to their social media sites and you are going to be drooling after looking at their loaded milkshakes!  I mean, who doesn’t want a cupcake on top of a milkshake?! The Creamery on Main sure does put the phrase “have your cake and eat it too” to work with all their creative concoctions! 23090 E Main St, Armada

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The Custard Hut | Dearborn Heights

So, The Custard Hut had me at ice cream wedged between waffles. Hot waffles. Choose your ice cream and your waffles; does it get any better?! Not feeling a hot waffle sandwich? The Hut also has a variety of slushies, sundaes, and shakes. 25947 W Warren St, Dearborn Heights

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Detroit Water Ice Factory | Detroit

Detroit Water Ice Factory serves up a uniquely delicious icy treat that is fat free, dairy free, and cholesterol free. Most of it is also vegan! Make it a Motown Twist by adding soft serve to the top and bottom of water ice flavors like Banana Peanut Butter, Cobo Coconut, and Honolulu Blue Raspberry. Other menu items include soft pretzels and 14+ unique gourmet popcorn flavors from sister store Brown Bag Popcorn.

What we especially love about Detroit Water Ice Factory is that 100% of profits go directly to SAY Detroit charities. Thanks to Detroit’s beloved columnist and author Mitch Albom for bringing this gem to the city! 1014 Woodward Ave, Campus Martius

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Donut Bar + Coffee | Livonia + Southfield

Okay, so most of you know about Donut Bar + Coffee having AH-MAZING donuts. But, did you know that you can get a donut cone with ice cream inside of it?! You get to choose from chocolate, vanilla, or swirl ice cream. Don’t forget to get one of these on your morning donut run. Don’t worry–it’s never too early for ice cream! 29039 Southfield Rd, Southfield and 19734 Haggerty Rd, Livonia

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Guernsey Farms Dairy | Northville

Guernsey Farms is a family favorite. They now have an Ice Cream Scoop Shop and Soda Bar. You can choose from 48 flavors–if you ask me, it’s nearly impossible to choose just one! Sit down and enjoy a sundae or shake at the old school soda fountain bar. And, if you’re hungry, stop in to the dining room for some food. 21300 Novi Rd, Northville

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Huddle Soft Serve | Detroit

The walk-up window for this cute little shop will make you instantly fall in love. Not to mention, their custard is delish! They keep it simple with chocolate and vanilla, or you can have the best of both worlds with a twist. Then, finish it off with toppings like sprinkles, chocolate chips, salt, or get it dipped in cherry or chocolate. Not feeling ice cream? Grab a float. Our favorite part is walking up to grab our treats and then continuing on throughout the city. It’s an absolute must when you visit the city! 2 John R. St, Detroit

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Mangonadas Del Barrio | Detroit

Here’s a southwest Detroit favorite! It’s the home of the Mangonada, a frozen spicy Mexican fruit drink. But don’t you worry, they also offer snacks, sweet drinks, and ice cream. I’m adding the chocobanana split to my list! 1210 Lawndale St, Detroit

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Modern Cone | St. Clair Shores

Can you say ice cream nachos?! This is one item that we’ve added to our foodie bucket list; it’s known as a fan favorite at Modern Cone. Oh, and if you can’t choose one flavor, why not choose six with an ice cream flight?! No shame in that ice cream game. Not feeling ice cream? Grab an Italian Ice Slush. These are only a few of the items offered here. Check out the menu to see what else they have! 28616 Harper Ave, St. Clair Shores

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Ray’s Ice Cream | Royal Oak

Whenever I hear someone talk about a nostalgic ice cream place, Ray’s is always one that comes up. Here you’ll find a classic ice cream parlor with over 50 flavors to choose from such as White Russian, Cookie Monster, or Coffee and Heath. If you’re looking to relive those summer memories, this is the place to be. 4233 Coolidge Hwy, Royal Oak

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Treat Dreams Dessert Emporium | Ferndale

This is one of our favorite stops in Ferndale. Their ice cream and cookie flavors change weekly. Every Sunday you can expect new flavors to debut featuring a variety of hard ice creams, sorbet, and vegan ice cream. Did we mention they have D’VINE Cookies there?Hello, ice cream sandwiches! 22965 Woodward Ave, Ferndale

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Wally’s Frozen Custard | St. Clair Shores

Have a fire truck lover in the family? Head on over to Wally’s Frozen Custard to check out their fire station-inspired shop which houses two converted fire engines that can be rented for on-site custard catering. Wally’s also offers birthday party rentals in their large indoor bay area. They are open early and offer amazing coffee and breakfast options, too! 22501 Harper, St. Clair Shores

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Click on the image below to open it in a large window, save it, and print it off. Add your favorite shops, then check them off as you enjoy ice cream all summer long!

After grabbing your ice cream, head on over to your local zoo for some more fun. Lindsay shares nine simple ways to bring even more excitement to your zoo experience!

This post was originally written by Elizabeth Lewis and updated in 2024 by Lauren Dalton.

Detroit Mom’s Travel Series: Tennessee

By
Lindsay Gizicki
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This past spring break, I wanted to plan a trip somewhere the kids could have fun, and a place where we could also really relax. I didn’t want to spend a fortune on flying–so I started looking at places that were driveable from Metro Detroit. Tennessee turned out to be the perfect location! Only an eight-hour car ride, plenty of lakefront rentals, and fun things to do for the whole family.

I ended up planning things in three different Tennessee cities. We stayed in Ten Mile, but we visited Chattanooga and Sweetwater. Chattanooga was about an hour and 30 minutes from where we stayed, and Sweetwater was about 30 minutes.

Watts Bar Lake
Our rental on Watts Bar Lake in Ten Mile, Tennessee.

Ten Mile is a great little rural city. The house we rented was set back in a secluded area on a gorgeous lake. Many people were out boating, fishing, and kayaking. It was a very family-friendly neighborhood! Chattanooga is good for more of a city experience. They have an amazing aquarium, lots of restaurants, a children’s museum, and many great shops. Sweetwater has its small town charm; but it also has some great excursions just outside of the city.

Restaurants You’ll Love

Country Side Cafe | 28821 TN-58, Ten Mile, TN 37880 | (423) 334-0006
Don’t let this little place fool you! We had some amazing home cooked meals here. If you didn’t know it was a restaurant, you would absolutely think it was just another tiny home along the back roads. This is one of the only places to eat that’s actually located within the city of Ten Mile.

Nick’s Lakeside Grill | 2109 New Lake Rd, Spring City, TN 37381 | (423) 710-0605
Great place to stop after a fun day out. Yummy food, and even better cocktails. You feel like a local! The mac and cheese was amazing.

Bradley’s Pit BBQ & Grill | 517 New Hwy 68, Sweetwater, TN 37874 | (423) 351-7190
I was craving some good Tennessee barbecue, and Bradley’s didn’t disappoint! Everything tasted very fresh, and it was a fun atmosphere. PLUS there’s an ice cream truck right outside, which made for some yummy dessert!

The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga
The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Attractions You Must Visit

The Tennessee Aquarium | 1 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402 | (423) 265-0695
An amazing aquarium that has two parts. One side focuses on lakes, and the other side focuses on oceans. Very interactive and kid-friendly. One of the best I’ve ever been to!

Lookout Mountain Incline Railway | 3917 St Elmo Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37409 | (423) 821-4224
An inclined railway that leads you up to the top of Lookout Mountain in the historic St. Elmo district of Chattanooga. Gorgeous sights!

The Lost Sea Adventure | 140 Lost Sea Rd, Sweetwater, TN 37874 | (423) 337-6616
The Lost Sea is America’s largest underground lake and Registered National Landmark located in beautiful Sweetwater, Tennessee.

Favorite Coffee Shop

Cup Runneth Over Coffeehouse | 111 N Main St Suite A, Sweetwater, TN 37874 | (423) 836-9696
Amazing coffee with a sweet little bakery inside! My husband loved their iced cold brews.

Favorite Place for Sweet Treats

Sweetwater Creamery | 105 Morris St, Sweetwater, TN | (423) 836-9017
Holy Cow–no pun intended–but this was some amazing homemade ice cream! With amazing customer service, and more flavors than I knew existed, I wish we could go back just to eat here again!

Favorite Kid-Friendly Spot

Creative Discovery Museum | 321 Chestnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37402 | (423) 756-2738
There are a ton of things to do at this children’s museum, including summer programs and fun educational activities.

Favorite Date Night Spot

Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar | 1459 Riverside Dr #4312, Chattanooga, TN 37406 | (423) 622-0122
Even if you don’t like oysters, you’ll love this restaurant set along the river. A great option for a date night if you’re in the mood for seafood.

Bonus Tips to Tennessee

  • If you want to plan an excursion, book ahead of time! Everything we did sold out. I had to buy our aquarium and lost sea adventure passes the week before.
  • The incline railway sells out on the day of. Book your tickets for that in the morning!

What’s your favorite vacation spot? Check out our previous vacation series location: Ludington!

What I’d Tell Myself As A First-Time Mom

By
Renee Bolla
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What would I tell myself as a first-time mom? My first instinct is to tell myself what I should look out for and what I could do better. But after more thought, I don’t think I would offer advice. Advice can feel pretentious, like I know it all, which, let’s face it, as a first-time mom, I didn’t know a damn thing, let alone “it all.” What I craved back then, entering this uncharted territory called motherhood, wasn’t a list of dos and don’ts.

what I would tell myself as a first-time mom

Telling my past self all the things I know now is like advising your 16-year-old daughter not to date that guy who seems like bad news or to steer clear of that friend who’s a bad influence. That shit never sticks because hearing something and actually living through it are worlds apart.

It’s those lived experiences that truly shape us, paving the way for growth and a better understanding of ourselves. Each step we take on this journey of motherhood adds to our story, guiding us towards our future selves. So, what would I say to my first-time mom self? It’s simple: “You’ve got this!”

“You’ve got this!”

Despite the days when tears seemed endless, when your bladder acted like it had a mind of its own, and when your nipples felt as raw as . . . well, you get the picture. That won’t compare to the feeling you have when you see the life you built 5, 10, 15 years from now. Those little humans you’re nurturing are thriving, and so are you. They look up to you, love you, and respect you. You’ve given them the space to be themselves, to fail and to learn, breaking generational molds along the way.

“You’ve got this!”

Wait till you see how you’re raising your girls—with a voice, teaching them to stand for what they believe in, to venture into spaces they’re told they don’t belong, breaking traditional norms. They can do this because you do this.

You’ve paved the way. You’ve shown them it’s okay to walk away from something you’ve done for 20 years if it no longer brings you joy or serves your purpose. You’ve demonstrated the ability to pivot, to start over, to put yourself first, to prioritize your needs and your mental well-being. Your daughters see this daily and feel empowered because of you.

“You’ve got this!”

Navigating stepmotherhood comes with its own set of challenges, but you’ll meet them with strength and love. You’ll build relationships founded on trust and respect. Your stepdaughter will see you as a source of unwavering support and love, thanks to the intentional and caring way you approach blending your family.

In fact, you even wrote a picture book inspired by your own experiences as a stepmom and stepdaughter–a beautiful book that celebrates the unique and important role of stepmothers, debunking negative stereotypes and offering blended families the happy ending they deserve.

“You’ve got this!”

You’re the mom you set out to be—present, open-minded, honest, supportive, and loving. Remember, every journey has its highs and lows; that’s how growth happens. But do not doubt yourself for one second. You’re amazing, navigating the complexities of motherhood with grace. You are an incredible mom, and I’m here to remind you of that. That’s what I would tell myself as a first-time mom.

So moms, let’s stand together, supporting and celebrating each other’s journeys in motherhood. Share your stories, struggles, and triumphs with our community. Because every mom deserves to hear: You got this because you are amazing.

Motherhood can pull us in so many different directions. Faten shares about the importance of setting boundaries.

Rooftops + Patios You MUST Visit This Summer

By
CarminIssa
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It’s that time of the year! The weather in Michigan has been a minimum of high 70s, low 80s and that means summer is finally here! Not to mention, sunsets with Detroit’s skyline as the backdrop are a top-tier experience in the summer. Having a cocktail or mocktail with your girlfriends or partner is a must for these summer nights!

If I am with my group of friends, we are definitely looking for the “IG worthy” photo with a beautiful cocktail in hand. Some of my favorite spaces have stunning greenery that just elevates your experience. My go-to time to hang out is during brunch! When I am with my husband, I am looking for the lights and amazing craft cocktails and small bites to snack on. Having the twinkle of stars light up the sky on a rooftop at night is the most romantic!

Here are my go-to spots for rooftops and patios where you can enjoy the summer breeze in the vibrancy of Metro Detroit. 

Rooftops and Patios In + Around Detroit

Highlands | Detroit

While it isn’t a rooftop, the Highlands Restaurant has an amazing view! Located inside of the Renaissance Center, it is a great place for date night. The restaurant sits on the 71st floor, offering one of the best views in the heart of the city. The high bar offers an extensive cocktail list that is sure to get your night off to a great start.

IO Rooftop Lounge | Detroit (Corktown)

Right across from where the original Tiger’s Stadium was is the new Godfrey Hotel. It is in the perfect location for everything near Downtown Detroit. Inside of the hotel is a new rooftop lounge called IO for Indoor/Outdoor. The retractable roof opens up to the perfect summer breeze. On Mondays, they have a pop-up event that is great to attend with your girlfriends for a night out on the town.

Kamper’s Rooftop Lounge | Detroit

Newly opened, Kamper’s has become the largest rooftop in Detroit. It is located in The Book Towers and offers an extensive list of beverages for everyone. The menu also features Spanish tapas for you to snack on as you enjoy the amazing view of the city. You can spot Ford Field from the rooftop patio! Reservations are recommended to experience this exclusive lounge.

Lumen Detroit | Detroit

Lumen has the perfect rooftop to take in all of Downtown Detroit. The 360-degree view of the city is housed in Beacon Park. Right outside of the amazing rooftop are an array of activities for you to enjoy during the summer months. In the summer, Beacon Park has outdoor concerts, markets that highlight local vendors, and tons of family-friendly events that should be added to your to-do list for the summer!

The Monarch Club | Detroit 

The Monarch Club is the perfect place to sit during any weather! It is in the heart of Downtown Detroit and located inside the Metropolitan Building and a sight to see during the sunset. The Monarch Club is a great place to dress up and enjoy a night out on the town!

Watermark Bar + Grille | St. Clair Shores

Concluding the list of must-see views in the summer is a place just outside of Downtown Detroit. Located in what locals know as the Nautical Mile of St. Clair Shores is Watermark Bar + Grille. This waterfront restaurant allows you to drive up in a car–or a boat. Their menu features amazing food and drinks for families to share!

Summer is a feeling. Whether you feel like having some fun listening to a DJ at the IO, or you are looking for a romantic evening with your loved one at the Highlands, Detroit is where you will get your summer feels! These rooftops and patios are just a few of my favorites for any summer night!

For more ideas on what to do this summer, check out our list of Metro Detroit Summer Activities From A to Z.

I’m Not Sending My Kids to Summer Camp

By
Megan Moore
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I was a summer camp kid. Not all summer long, like those depicted in movies like The Parent Trap or Camp Nowhere, but I did have my experience of counselors, arts and crafts, and the buddy system at the waterfront. Yet, at this point in my motherhood journey, I don’t see those things in my children’s future.

There is certainly something to be said for summer camp experiences. They can be a wonderful opportunity for kids to experience new things, make friends, and get outdoors. Additionally, they’re a great resource for working parents who rely on them during the summers when school is out. Even stay-at-home parents may choose a summer camp just to break up the monotony of the warmer months and give themselves a breather here and there–and that’s totally okay!

But as kids transition from school to summer, camps aren’t on my agenda for a couple of reasons.

I have a luxury that I’m not going to waste.

As a working mom who has the privilege of having a couple of months off in the summer, I’m choosing to be with my kids 24/7 instead of sending them to camp. I view this break in our routine as a luxury that isn’t afforded to everyone, and as such, I’m going to fully embrace it.

Do I sometimes feel overwhelmed? Absolutely. Do we have days where the bickering doesn’t end and I’m guilty of snapping? Definitely. But it’s a small price to pay to experience the absolute freedom of being together with no agenda. We fill our days with our own adventures, outside time, arts and crafts, and even making new friends. Trips to the playground, hanging out by the water, local activities at our library or community center . . . each day is a blank canvas on which to paint the memories of my little ones’ childhood summers.

In today’s world, it’s such an uncommon experience to be unburdened by work, school, and extracurriculars that I’m one hundred percent leaning into summer while my children are still young and want to hang out with their mom. I know this isn’t realistic or feasible for every family, which is why I don’t want to let one minute of it pass me by.

I’m also anxious.

There is a less blissful undercurrent beneath the joviality of carefree days with my kids. Summer camp has lost some of its charm for me because of all the potential dangers. I’m sure awful things were occurring at summer camps when I was a kid in the ‘90s. But I was unaware, and things like sleepovers and summer camps weren’t as touchy a subject among parents. Kids, including myself, did a lot of things many parents wouldn’t dream of allowing their children to do today.

As society talks more openly about situations children can and have encountered, like bullying and abuse, and awareness increases, so does the debate about whether or not once quintessential childhood experiences are still safe. So, too, does my anxiety about letting my kids participate in these things.

Sleepovers are out of the question, which makes a sleep away summer camp off the table. But even day camps can seem dangerous. I would be lying if I said my reasons for not sending them to summer camp were only due to my selfishness of wanting to soak in every moment with them and not also because of my anxiety of not knowing who is with them at every moment.

Privilege Over Paranoia

In the end, I like to think my fears take a backseat to my desire to wake up with my kids each morning and say, “What do you want to do today?” My privilege of summers off perfectly suits both my motherly selfishness and anxiety in that it means I don’t have to send my kids to summer camp if I don’t want to–which, I don’t.

I realize we may have tough conversations in the future should any one of my three children want to go to summer camp. Maybe I’ll compromise. Maybe my perspective will change. “I’ll never . . .” is a curse of parenthood I try not to subscribe to. But for now, I’m keeping them at home–at Camp Mom.

Looking for spots to check out with your kids? Check out our Metro Detroit Summer Activities from A to Z list!

The Ultimate Michigan Summer Bucket List

By
AntonetteSlobodian
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bucket and shovel in sand with sunshine and the words the ultimate summer bucket list

Are the kids bored already? Well . . . get them out the door to any and all of these aaaaahhhmazing Michigan hot spots! Here at Detroit Mom, we know how summer can be, so we put our mom brains together to compile your Ultimate Michigan Summer Bucket List. Save this post or print it out and hang it up where the whole fam can see, and choose where your kids want to go to have FUN!

From rainy-day activities to sunshine all day, we have you covered. Metro Detroit is action-packed with festivals, farms, and FUN! So, grab your cute bathing suit or hot hiking boots, and let’s explore!

bucket and shovel in sand with sunshine and the words the ultimate summer bucket list

Whether you want to spend time with nature, grab a bite to eat at a new restaurant, add a new park to your park hop list, or just want to do something NEW, rest assured that our list will provide your family with endless hours of summer fun. This is also perfect for those out-of-town visitors that you want to show off our state to. So, get started! See how many activities you can check off of our Michigan summer bucket list!

The Ultimate Michigan Summer Bucket List:

Animals

For the animal lovers in your family, you’ll want to check out:

Farms + Nature

Definitely save this section for a gorgeous summer morning. Michigan is home to so many family farms and natural areas! Check out some of our favorites:

Food + Nights Out

If you’re looking for a new place to grab lunch or dinner, or something exciting to do at night as a family, here is where we recommend:

Kid-Friendly Outdoor Activities

Plan to check out some of these kid-friendly places earlier in the day, before it gets too hot:

Music + Festivals

Don’t forget a comfy blanket or lawn chair and some snacks when you stop in for these sights and sounds:

Parks

Have you ever done a park hop? Add these parks to your list the next time you head out to play:

Photo Ops!

Summer is not complete without the photographic evidence. We’ve planned out the BEST spots to stop for photo ops, including:

Rainy Day Indoor Activities

We know Michigan weather can be unpredictable, so here are some spots to check out this summer when it rains:

Water Activities

Save these for those HOT days when you want to be outside, but need a way to stay cool:

Traveling with your kids this summer? Don’t miss Rana’s tips for a successful road trip vacation.

This post was originally written by Whitney Cornelli and updated in 2024 by Antonette Slobodian.

Common Reasons for Fertility Preservation

By
Whitney Cornelli
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DISCLAIMER: The following post is not intended to act as medical advice. As always, please consult your doctor with any questions about your fertility.

There are many ways to start or grow a family. It can be a little overwhelming to wade through all of the information you find when you’re looking for answers. It’s normal to want to know more and to know what your options are. If your doctor has mentioned fertility preservation to you, you may be curious. But do you know the specifics about what exactly it is, and why it might be done?

When it comes to questions about fertility, our friends from Michigan Center for Fertility and Women’s Health are here to support you. You may have seen their Fertility Friday series on our IG page. Below, they’re sharing about the fertility preservation process, a few reasons why it might be something that an individual needs, and how it works.

Fertility Preservation for Medical Conditions

One common reason for fertility preservation is if someone has a medical condition (for example, a recent diagnosis of cancer) and they’re going to be starting some type of treatment that may affect their egg or sperm quality. Patients may freeze their sperm, eggs, or embryos before they go through their treatment process. This will hopefully allow for a better chance of pregnancy to happen if desired in the future. Although, there are no guarantees.

Certain medical conditions and the treatment required may result in low or zero eggs or sperm after treatment is done. And, the quality may also be affected. Being proactive and seeking out fertility preservation ahead of time may allow more options if the time comes in the future that you may want to try to conceive.

Fertility Preservation for Those Who Aren’t Ready . . . Yet

Another very common reason for fertility preservation is for individuals (primarily females) that are not quite ready to conceive, haven’t met the right partner, or are not sure if they want to have a baby, but know that their biological clock is ticking. This indication for fertility preservation is getting more popular due to increased education and awareness. If someone is in their mid-thirties and fits some of the previously mentioned criteria, then it’s a really good time to at least make a consultation appointment and talk about options for freezing their eggs.

Our egg supply is always declining in terms of the amount and the quality. The decline is relatively steady initially, and then it accelerates after age 35 and goes even quicker each year after. For this reason, fertility preservation is ideal prior to age 35, but is certainly still an option over age 35. Depending on your age, work-up, and indication for preservation, you may require more than one cycle of an egg retrieval. Each plan is customized to each individual and their overall goals.

Fertility preservation is a wonderful option for those that are on the fence about if or when they want to have a child. It’s a way to be proactive for the future, and there’s really no right or wrong age. But keeping that in mind, that sweet spot for age would be an ideal time–if you’re considering it–to at least come in and make a consultation.

It is important to note there is no guarantee for pregnancy with fertility preservation. And, the future success rate is dependent on the factors listed above (age, indication, and testing results). Success rates, suggested egg freezing numbers, etc. are all discussed in detail at your appointment.

Fertility Preservation for Other Reasons

There are other indications for fertility preservation. These are including, but not limited to, those doing hormone therapy, transgender patients that may want to freeze sperm potentially for future use, etc.

Fertility preservation for all these reasons can be very helpful. The staff at Michigan Center for Fertility & Women’s Health are always happy to provide further education and get your plan started.

Looking for more resources for starting a family? Check out our recent post about family planning and when to see a specialist.

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