The Great NC Outdoors Mom

Category: Outdoor Adventures

  • 5 Postpartum Foot Pain Solutions

    that really work for moms.

    2–4 minutes

    Understanding postpartum foot pain

    If you’ve experienced postpartum foot pain, know that you’re not alone. There is science behind why this happens and it is not an issue you have to simply endure. Pregnancy can bring lasting changes to the feet, and with informed care, relief is achievable.

    Why postpartum feet can hurt

    During pregnancy, hormonal changes loosen ligaments, and weight distribution shifts. The arches may flatten slightly, and the joints in the feet can absorb more stress. After childbirth, these adaptations may persist, leading to ongoing discomfort, arch pain, heel pain or fatigue, especially after standing or walking.

    What the science says:

    • Ligament laxity: Relaxin and other hormones loosen ligaments, increasing foot flexibility but reducing stability.
    • Arch dynamics: The arch height can decrease during pregnancy, altering gait mechanics and load distribution.
    • Posture and weight: Residual changes in posture and residual weight load can continue to place stress on the feet and ankles.

    5 Postpartum Foot Pain Solutions

    Targeted stretching

    • Calf stretches: Stand facing a wall, place hands on the wall, step one foot back, keep heels down, and lean in. Hold for 30 seconds; switch sides.
    • Plantar fascia stretch: Sit with one foot across the opposite knee, gently pull the toes back toward the shin to stretch the arch. Hold 20–30 seconds; repeat.
    • Achilles tendon stretch: With a slight knee bend, lean forward to feel a stretch behind the ankle, hold for 30 seconds.
    • Regular yoga style downward dog poses.

    Strength and stability

    • Short, regular foot exercises can improve arch support and balance.
    • Gentle toe curls, marble pickups, and towel scrunches can strengthen intrinsic foot muscles. (My PT gave me these!)
    • Balance drills on a flat surface can enhance overall foot stability.

    Supportive Footwear

    • Comfortable walking sandals that properly support your weakened arches are key.
    • Inserts into your sneakers – I get superfeet orthotic inserts!

    Wear arch support flip flops at home

    • Especially when you’re home a lot with a new baby, make sure you’re supporting your feet even when you don’t leave the house. Shop secondhand for good brands at ThredUp.
    • I love Archies for this – I can remember the light blue pair that was always right by my couch in between nursing session.

    Massage

    • Especially with all the fluid build up that happens during pregnancy massage can really help move it out.
    • Foot reflexology appointment
    • At home

    A personal note of encouragement

    Like so many things with postpartum life for women we feel alone, like we are isolated and need to figure things out on our own. I wrote this blog post with the hopes that it helps another mom experiencing foot pain after having their baby like I did. Most of these solutions are affordable and practical. When baby does tummy time, you do your downward dog beside them.

    PostPartum foot pain does not have to be your new normall

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  • The Best Shoes for Walking the North Carolina Zoo (From a Mom Who’s Walked It for Years)

    If you’re planning a visit to the North Carolina Zoo, prepare to walk…a lot.

    Quick Answer

    Short on time? Here’s the quick answer.

    Do not, I mean do not wear uncomfortable footwear! Tevas save my feet in the summer and on cooler months when we visit I wear my Brooks with insoles. And don’t forget to pack a hat!

    Before We Dive In…

    If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent more time worrying about sore feet, uncomfortable gear, or whether you’re packed well enough than actually enjoying time outside with your kids.

    I’ve learned through plenty of North Carolina trails, splash pads, playgrounds, and family adventures that the right gear doesn’t have to be expensive—it just has to work.

    Why You Can Trust My Recommendations

    Hi! I’m Sara, a North Carolina mom of three boys who spends weekends exploring trails, parks, splash pads, and outdoor adventures with my family.

    After dealing with postpartum foot pain myself, I became determined to find outdoor gear that actually keeps moms comfortable while chasing kids.

    Everything I recommend is something I’ve personally used, thoroughly researched, or would confidently recommend to my own friends and family.

    Visiting the Zoo

    Several years, our family will get the annual membership to the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, and it’s one of our favorite day trips in North Carolina. My boys never seem to get tired of watching the polar bear swim, looking at the giraffes, or racing to the gorilla exhibit.

    But if you’ve never visited before, there’s one thing every mom should know before packing the snacks and loading the stroller:

    You’re going to walk miles.

    In fact, the North Carolina Zoo is the world’s largest natural habitat zoo, and that means the animals have huge, natural habitats that spread across hundreds of acres. It’s incredible for the animals—and amazing for visitors—but it also means your feet are definitely going to get a workout.

    By the end of most visits, my watch shows somewhere around 15,000 steps, even when we use the trams between sections. If you explore most of the zoo’s walking paths, you’ll cover close to five miles during the day.

    Why Comfortable Shoes Matter More Than You Think

    A few years ago, I wouldn’t have been excited about all those steps.

    After having my third son, I developed plantar fasciitis and ongoing foot pain that lingered far longer than I expected. Family outings that should have been fun often ended with aching feet before lunchtime.

    I remember standing in front of the giraffes, trying to enjoy watching my boys, while quietly wishing I could sit down because every step hurt.

    If you’ve dealt with postpartum foot pain, plantar fasciitis, or simply don’t have supportive shoes, a full day at the zoo can quickly become uncomfortable.

    That’s one of the reasons I started paying much more attention to the shoes I wear for outdoor adventures.

    My Top Picks

    Best Shoes

    Tevas Sandals

    Comfortable shoes for walking the zoo, they go with everything, last years and can go from wet to dry easily.

    Teva Women’s Comfortable Sandals

    Why I love these: I can wear them all day, walking miles at the zoo, and my feet feel fine at the end of the day. The best sandals for zoo walking.

    Best Hat

    This hat is not only ADORABLE but has great sun protection for your shoulders and neck.

    Eppie Wide Brim Straw Hat

    Why I recommend it: Thinking about what to wear to the North Carolina Zoo I used to not even think about a hat, and while there are lots of shady areas, I’m so grateful to not have to squint when I’m standing in a sunny spot seeing animals. The gorilla and monkey areas are not very shaded and my kids tend to linger by those animals.

    Best Shopping Source

    A few years ago I discovered ThredUp – the EASIEST way to consign clothes online. Literally stuff a bag or box of stuff you aren’t wearing anymore and send. They sort, price, and sell. You then have a credit to use toward clothes you need. Or you can simply shop their site. I’ve found some of my favorite outdoor wardrobe staples this way, including athletic tops, lightweight layers, and even supportive walking sandals. If you’re planning a day at the North Carolina Zoo, it’s a great place to look for comfortable clothing and trusted brands like Teva, Brooks, Columbia, Patagonia, and Athleta—often at a fraction of retail prices.

    ThredUp Shopping

    What I Wear to the Zoo

    After many visits, I’ve settled into a simple routine, one that prioritizes comfortable shoes for walking the zoo.

    Cooler Months

    When temperatures are cooler, I wear my Brooks running shoes paired with my Super Feet inserts. The extra support makes a huge difference when we’re covering several miles on an outdoor adventure.

    Summer Visits

    During North Carolina’s hot summers, I almost always reach for my Teva sandals.

    They’re supportive enough for long walks while still keeping my feet cool in the heat. Since many zoo paths alternate between sunny stretches and shaded forests, breathable footwear makes the day much more comfortable.

    These have become my go-to sandals for most of our outdoor adventures and the zoo is no different. The zoo has a few water areas and misting stations and they dry easily so that is key!

    Don’t Forget Sun Protection

    One thing I appreciate about the North Carolina Zoo is the mix of shady wooded trails and open sunny areas.

    Even though you’ll find plenty of shade, there are long stretches where the North Carolina sun can be intense—especially during summer.

    I usually wear:

    • A lightweight tank top
    • Sunscreen
    • Sunglasses
    • My favorite wide-brim Eppie Hat

    The wide brim helps shade my face, neck, and shoulders while still feeling comfortable enough to wear all day.

    If you’ve followed my blog for a while, you already know this hat comes with me on almost every outdoor adventure.

    Helpful Planning Resources

    If this is your first visit, I highly recommend checking out the excellent planning guide from NC Tripping. They have great tips about the North Carolina Zoo for families. It covers everything from parking and tram routes to what food is offered and what animals live in which section. From their guide they state that the NC Zoo has: “1,800 animals and 200-plus species”!

    Final Thoughts

    The North Carolina Zoo is one of my favorite places to spend a day with my kids. We have explored it in different seasons and watched our boys grow from stroller rides to walking the entire zoo themselves.

    Yes, you’ll probably hit 15,000 steps before you head home.

    But when you’re wearing supportive shoes, staying cool, and protecting yourself from the sun, those miles become part of the adventure instead of something you’re dreading.

    If you’re planning a visit to the world’s largest natural habitat zoo, pack comfortable footwear, grab a wide-brim hat, and enjoy one of North Carolina’s best family attractions. Your feet will thank you by the end of the day.

    Before You Head Outside…

    💜 I hope this guide helps make your next adventure just a little easier.

    Whether you’re heading to a neighborhood park, the North Carolina zoo, or your favorite splash pad, I hope you spend less time worrying about gear and more time making memories.

    See you outside!

    — Sara

    Affiliate Disclosure

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely believe are worth your money and that I’d recommend to my own friends and family.

  • Beyond the Beach: Summer Essentials for Moms Who Love the Outdoors

    Because being outside with kids goes beyond the beach vacation, we need full coverage and comfortable walking sandals for all the outdoor adventures.

    When most people think of a wide-brim straw hat, they picture lounging on the beach.

    As a mom, that’s rarely where mine gets worn.

    Mine has been to soccer tournaments, splash pads, the zoo, botanical gardens, strawberry farms, neighborhood walks, swim meets, and countless afternoons at the playground. It lives on a hook by the door so I never forget to grab it on the way out.

    It’s part of my outdoor summer mom uniform just like my favorite supportive walking sandals.

    My Summer Outdoor Mom Uniform

    After years of chasing three boys around North Carolina, I’ve realized I wear the same basic outfit almost everywhere we go.

    • Supportive walking sandals
    • A wide-brim straw hat
    • Sunglasses
    • Lightweight clothes (love athletic shorts with built in underwear)
    • Athletic tank (often find good deals on ThredUp for a steal)

    That’s it.

    I don’t dress for Instagram. I dress for making it through six hours outside without my feet hurting or ending the day with a pounding headache from too much sun.

    I’m a North Carolina mom of three boys who spends countless hours at trails, splash pads, parks, and outdoor adventures. I only recommend products I’ve personally used, thoroughly researched, or would confidently buy for my own family.

    My Top Sun Hat Picks

    The shape of this one is feminine without being overwhelming. Straw hats dry easily and maintain their shape well. This hat I love because it goes with so many of my casual outdoor adventure outfits.

    Bisbee Sun Hat

    I tend to reach for my straw sun hat with the neck string most often because when I’m on the go it won’t fall off if there’s wind or I’m leaning over to pick something up. I love the natural shade of this one SO much!

    Ezra Sun Hat

    The pattern, the softness of the two tones together, the pop of green! I’m obsessed with this outdoor straw sun hat for moms on the go this summer. I LOVE this one so much.

    Eppie Sun Hat

    Why Ball Caps Aren’t Enough

    Don’t get me wrong—I own plenty of baseball caps.

    But when I’m spending hours outdoors, they’re just not enough.

    A baseball cap shades your eyes, but your ears, cheeks, neck, chest and shoulders are still soaking up the North Carolina sun. I also find myself squinting more, and by the end of the day that usually turns into a headache.

    A quality wide-brim hat gives you shade from every angle. I’m noticing sun spots on my chest – see photo below – I like how the wider brim covers more.

    It’s one of those small changes that makes a surprisingly big difference when you’re outside summer day after summer day with kids.

    My Favorite Combination: Comfortable Walking Sandals + A Wide-Brim Hat

    If you’ve read many posts here, you already know I’m a believer in supportive walking sandals. After my pregnancies I dealt with plantar fasciitis, the right supportive footwear is part of what saved my feet.

    Whether I’m exploring a state park, one of our local playgrounds, walking through the North Carolina state farmers market, or standing on the sidelines at another lacrosse tournament, comfortable shoes are non-negotiable.

    Pair them with a breathable straw hat, and suddenly those long summer days become much more enjoyable.

    Why I’m Loving American Hat Makers

    One thing I appreciate about American Hat Makers is that their hats aren’t just designed for beach vacations.

    They’re made for people who actually spend time outdoors.

    When I recommend products here, they absolutely HAVE to fit real mom life and these do. Honestly – I notice a slight headache when I forget my wide brim straw sun hat because without it I’m squinting more, my sunglasses alone just don’t cut it.

    Summer memories are made in the everyday outdoor adventures.

    Some of my favorite summer memories aren’t from expensive vacations.

    They’re Tuesday mornings at the park.

    Ice cream after lacrosse practice.

    A walk around the lake after dinner.

    Picking peaches.

    Watching my boys skip rocks.

    Comfortable walking sandals and a great sun hat won’t make the memories for you.

    But they can make it a whole lot easier to stay outside long enough to enjoy them.

    And that’s exactly what summer is about.

    Before You Head Outside…

    Moms know our bodies are no longer the same as they were when we were younger. Outdoor adventures with our kids are better when we prioritize our own comfort – don’t just grab that old ball cap and don’t skip grabbing supportive sandals.

    Affiliate Disclosure

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one of my links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely believe provide value.

  • Finding Time for Yourself Outdoors: summer self-care for moms – my day with the sunflowers under the longleaf pines.

    Summer Self-Care for Moms: Journaling Outdoors with Kids

    Somewhere along the way, summer became all about making memories for my kids—and I forgot it could be for me too. Simple ways I find summer self-care for moms.

    On one of the hottest afternoons of the summer, my youngest son and I packed snacks, binoculars, plenty of water, and headed to Raleigh’s sunflower field… every summer the city plants acres of sunflowers in a once unused field that is slowly progressing to become a unique city park. Today I threw in this journal – one that I’ve really come to love, something tangible, something that helps, something summer self-care for moms.

    Journal Link

    Grateful to have grabbed my supportive walking sandals, plenty of water and some activities for my son we really enjoyed chill time after seeing the sunflowers. Luckily this park strategically placed hammocks under the long leaf pines providing ample shade from the North Carolina summer sun.

    This is your summer too – how can you work in a few moments of self-care outdoors?

    The journal prompt I chose today was about reflection – which about brought me to tears thinking about how time has passed. The first trip to see the sunflowers was with my older two and our old dog long before my youngest was in the picture. I think back to that time and self-care for moms to me was booking a spa appointment or making sure to book a girls night.

    Outdoor self-care

    The reality is that like most adventures, the novelty of this experience wears off pretty quickly for my kids. And in the summer heat the whining can be frequent. Over the years their discomfort and boredom was often something I struggled to find enough energy for. Especially when I myself was uncomfortable.

    Summer self-care for moms

    I’ve realized that taking care of my own comfort isn’t selfish, it’s one of the best ways I can take care of my kids. When my feet don’t hurt, when I’m hydrated, when I’ve had ten quiet minutes to myself, I’m a calmer, more present mom. Coming back to supportive walking sandals that are comfortable – it may seem silly but the difference this makes for me cannot be understated. Its not just the spa, self-care can look like prioritizing my physical comfort, choosing to sit in the shade and experience the calm of journaling outdoors. Slowing down in a shady spot while the kids wander, noticing the sound of the birds.

    Comfortable sandals for moms

    Today I chose a favorite pair – always reaching for my comfortable walking sandals for our all-day adventures. Mine are over five years old now. They’ve been to splash pads, playgrounds, botanical gardens, state parks, and countless North Carolina summers. They stay secure when I’m chasing kids, they’re supportive enough for hours of walking, and now knowing how after pregnancies my feet have changed I’m so grateful for these.

    :

    They actually don’t sell the colorway in my picture anymore so including my solid black Teva Sandal for reference...

    Teva Midform

    We both have our own hammocks, the shade from the long leaf pines, the sunflowers off in the distance and I’m not doomscrolling, I’m leaning into a little self-care with this space to color.

    “Studies have shown that expressive writing — which involves writing about emotional experiences — enhances neural processing in areas related to cognitive control and memory (DiMenichi et. al, 2019). This isn’t just about feeling better in the moment, but building long-term mental and emotional strength.”

    – Child Mind Institute https://childmind.org/blog/how-journaling-rewires-your-brain-for-resilience/

    Sitting quietly beneath the longleaf pines, I could actually feel that happening. Instead of merely replaying old memories in my head, I was giving them somewhere to land, leaving me feeling more grounded.

    Emotional writing – reflecting on phases and stages of life. How is that not going to bring forth emotions. Journaling about these helps my brain process those emotions in real time and gives those emotions kind of like a physical transference – a place for them to go. Depositing emotions on paper in this environment is my opportunity for mom mental health outdoors.

    Why Journaling Outside Feels Different

    The sunflowers were beautiful, but they weren’t what I’ll remember most. Years from now, I think I’ll remember sitting beneath the longleaf pines with my youngest nearby, realizing this wasn’t just another summer for my kids—it was my summer too.

  • Best Summer Flip Flops for Moms Over 40

    Quick Answer

    Archies – hands down!

    This is actually not my full collection – I’ve also owned a neutral tan flip flop and a light blue flip flop and completely wore them out!

    Archies Footwear

    Multiple pregnancies, fallen arches and constantly carrying the weight of the household on your back means the cute flat flip flops you found on sale no longer cut it.

    Before We Dive In…

    Like so many things, after 40 our feet don’t bounce back like they used to. And if you’re like me, pregnancies changed my feet. I will never forget stepping out of bed the morning after walking the neighborhood for Halloween 2 months after my third baby and about falling over because of the pain in my heels.

    It turns out the arches in my feet were basically flat and the unsupportive shoes I’d worn trick or treating the night before only exacerbated the issue. The next few months were spent trying to remedy the issue and feeling incredibly confused about why this was happening.

    Here’s everything I’ve learned so you can spend less time researching and more time making memories.

    Why You Can Trust My Recommendations

    Hi! I’m Sara, a North Carolina mom of three boys who spends weekends exploring trails, parks, splash pads, and outdoor adventures with my family.

    After dealing with postpartum foot pain myself, I became determined to find outdoor gear that actually keeps moms comfortable while chasing kids.

    Everything I recommend is something I’ve personally used, thoroughly researched, or would confidently recommend to my own friends and family.

    What keeps my 40 year old feet feeling great.

    ✔️ Regular stretching like downward dogs or wall calf stretches

    ✔️ Wearing shoes with arch support, like Archies in the warmer months

    ✔️ Adding inserts like Superfeet to my sneakers

    Mom Tip

    Here’s something I learned the hard way…

    Custom inserts are expensive and often unecessary. Insurance didn’t cover mine, the whole process was time consuming and they were never comfortable.

    Instead:

    • Skip the cheap cute sandals at the big box stores.
    • Switch to sandals with arch support – like Archies.
    • Commit to a regular stretching routine – like yoga.
    • Add calf lifts to your gym routine – add strength from the ground up.

    Final Thoughts

    If I were recommending just one option to my best friend, I’d choose Archies because it offers the best balance of comfort, durability, and value for busy moms who spend lots of time outside. I even wear them a ton around the house doing indoor chores.

    Before You Head Outside…

    💜 I hope this guide helps make your next adventure just a little easier.

    Whether you’re heading to a neighborhood park, a North Carolina trail, or your favorite splash pad, I hope you spend less time worrying about gear and more time making memories.

    See you outside!

    — Sara

    Related Articles

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    Affiliate Disclosure

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely believe are worth your money and that I’d recommend to my own friends and family.

  • You Don’t Have to Be an “Outdoorsy Mom” to Get Outside With Your Kids

    Short on time? Here’s the quick answer:

    You don’t need a hiking background, expensive gear, or pain-free feet to get your kids outside. Start small, at whatever pace feels doable today, and it still counts as an adventure.


    Maybe you didn’t grow up hiking in the woods or were the kid on epic backyard camping trips. Maybe your idea of “outside time” growing up was pretty tame? I know how that can make moms feel like they just aren’t “the outdoorsy type,” though now their kids are always on the go and ready to explore.

    If you’ve ever scrolled past a picture of some other mom summiting a mountain with a baby strapped to her back and thought, *that’s just not me*… I see you. And I promise — it doesn’t have to be you for your kids to grow up loving the outdoors.

    Start Where You Are, Not Where Pinterest Says You Should Be

    You don’t need a trailhead. You need a front door.

    A walk around the block counting mailboxes. Ten minutes at the local park. Letting the kids splash in a puddle instead of rushing past it. That’s not “less than” a real adventure, it truly is the adventure, especially in this season of life.

    Comfort level isn’t a compromise. It’s what makes it sustainable enough that you’ll actually do it again next week.

    Your Body Doesn’t Have to Be “Ready” Either


    Here’s the part almost nobody tells you: if your feet don’t feel like they used to since having kids, you are not broken, and you are not alone.

    Fallen arches. That ache that shows up by 3pm and wasn’t there before. Foot pain that seems to come out of nowhere postpartum. Your heels feel bruised.

    What I didn’t know is that this is incredibly common…

    …pregnancy hormones loosen more than just what your body needs for birth, and that can permanently change the structure of your arches.

    [I wrote a whole breakdown of the science and what actually helped me here] if you want to go deeper.



    For me, comfortable, supportive sandals ([here’s what I switched to]) made a bigger difference than almost anything else. Not because the “right gear” is the whole answer — but because when your feet stop being the thing holding you back, it’s a lot easier to say yes to the walk, the trail meandering off from the playground, the splash pad, etc.

    Small Adventures That Still Count


    If you need a starting list, here’s mine:

    – A driveway or sidewalk scavenger hunt (rocks, bugs, “something red”)
    – 20 minutes at the nearest playground, no agenda. Bonus points for shaded in the summer!
    – A puddle or splash pad day instead of a “real” hike
    – Watching the sunset from your own backyard, grab that old quilt!
    – One new-to-you local park, once a month

    That’s it. That’s the bar.

    Mom Tip 💜


    You don’t have to tell anyone your “adventure” was 15 minutes long. It still counts. Nobody’s handing out outdoor-mom certifications — you’re just out here, with your kids, making memories. That’s the whole job description.

    Why You Can Trust My Recommendations


    Hi! I’m Sara, a North Carolina mom of three boys who spends weekends exploring trails, parks, splash pads, and outdoor adventures with my family. I didn’t come to this as a lifelong outdoors girl — I came to it the same way you might be: figuring it out one imperfect outing at a time.


    💜 If today’s “adventure” is just getting everyone’s shoes on and making it to the mailbox and back, that counts. I hope this helps make your next outing feel a little less overwhelming and a lot more possible.

    See you outside!

    — Sara

  • Outdoor Mom Essentials: What I Always Keep in the Car for Summer Adventures With Kids

    Mom Tips and How to

    Every mom knows – always pack snacks! But what else are our must haves? Especially in the summer, when the kids are out of school and we’re not sure where the day will take us? Here are my go to essentials to keep the fun going and kids happy!

    Essentials to keep in the car

    1. Baby Wipes
    2. Extra bottles of water
    3. Swimsuits
    4. Sunscreen
    5. Bandaids, ointments and itch cream
    6. Sugar
    7. Face sunscreen for mom

    Why You Can Trust My Recommendations

    Hi! I’m Sara, a North Carolina mom of three boys who spends weekends exploring trails, parks, splash pads, and outdoor adventures with my family.

    Everything I recommend is something I’ve personally used, thoroughly researched, or would confidently recommend to my own friends and family.

    Always be prepared

    Summer adventures can take outdoor moms anywhere!

    After years of chasing three boys through North Carolina summers, I’ve learned that having a few outdoor mom essentials in the car can completely change the day. These are the things I never leave home without during summer outdoor adventures with kids.

    • Baby Wipes (Even If Your Kids Are Way Past Diapers)
      Listen — you still need baby wipes.
      Sticky hands, muddy feet, melted popsicles, public bathrooms, playground grime, mystery park bench situations… baby wipes solve all of it.
      I always keep an affordable pack of unscented wipes in the car, and honestly, I probably use them more now than I did when my kids were babies.
    • Extra Water Bottles
      Nothing ends a fun summer day faster than realizing everyone is overheated and the park does not have a refill station.
      I learned this lesson the hard way during a 90-degree North Carolina park day and now I never leave home without extra stainless steel water bottles already filled in the car.
      Even if we forget ours, I have backups ready to go.
      This is one of those simple outdoor mom hacks that makes a huge difference.
    • Backup Swimsuits and Towels
      One of the best parts of summer with kids is how unpredictable it is.
      You discover a splash pad.
      Someone finds a creek.
      A friend invites you to the pool.
      The park suddenly has water features.
      Having backup swimsuits and towels in the car means you can say YES to spontaneous fun without stressing about soaked clothes for the ride home.
      And honestly? Wet kids are usually happier kids in July.
    • Sunscreen Everywhere
      You need more sunscreen than you think you do.
      I finally accepted that the easiest system is keeping sunscreen in multiple places:
      • one in the pool bag
      • one in the car
      • one in the everyday “mom bag”
    • A Tiny Emergency Kit
      Right now mine is literally an old Ipsy bag and it works perfectly. This tiny kit has saved us so many times.
      • scrapes
      • bug bites
      • mystery bruises
      • random cuts
      • playground injuries
      • I keep a small zipper bag in my purse stocked with:
      • assorted bandaids
      • antibiotic ointment
      • cortisone cream
      • alcohol wipes
    • Something Sugary for Emergency Meltdowns
      I’m just being honest here.
      After several hours outside in the heat, sometimes everyone needs a quick sugar boost before things completely fall apart.
      Fruit snacks, granola bars, gummy candy, juice boxes — whatever works for your family.
      I have yet to find a situation where a tired, overheated child became LESS emotional because I refused to pack snacks.
    • Face Sunscreen for Mom
      Moms are usually great about protecting everyone else’s skin and terrible about protecting our own.
      If we’re not specifically “at the beach” or “at the pool,” it is so easy to forget to reapply sunscreen on our face during everyday outdoor activities.
      Right now I keep a few lightweight face sunscreen samples in my purse at all times so I can quickly reapply at parks, sports practices, splash pads, or while gardening.
      Future me is very grateful.


      The longer I parent, the more I realize that outdoor adventures with kids go smoother when I prepare for comfort instead of perfection.
      A few simple outdoor essentials can turn a stressful, overheated day into a fun memory instead.
      And honestly, anything that helps us stay outside longer without everyone melting down is worth packing.

    Perfect for moms who love exploring with their kids and have kids who like to stay active!

    They only get one childhood, and I only get one motherhood. That’s why you’ll usually find us outside chasing the next adventure.

    – me 🙂

    Mom Tip 💜

    Here’s something I am always amazed by…

    Repurpose crap from the house – kids always find the most mundane thing interesting when they get to use it outdoors in a new way.

    Examples:

    • Pack an extra towel for the car.
    • Keep some of those pup pads or “chucks pads” in the car.
    • Freeze water bottles the night before and pack extra jugs.
    • Bring a small grocery bag for muddy shoes.

    Before You Head Outside…

    💜 I hope this guide helps make your next adventure just a little easier.

    Whether you’re heading to a neighborhood park, a North Carolina trail, or your favorite splash pad, I hope you spend less time worrying about gear and more time making memories.

    See you outside!

    — Sara

    Related Articles

    You might also enjoy:

    Affiliate Disclosure

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely believe are worth your money and that I’d recommend to my own friends and family.

  • Why Pregnancy Changed My Feet (and the Supportive Sandals That Finally Helped)

    Quick Answer

    Short on time? Here’s the quick answer.

    Pregnancy changed my feet – after years of struggles I finally figured out why (the relaxin hormone) and what helps (yoga + supportive sandals)

    Gear Guide

    Before We Dive In…

    If you’ve experienced post partum foot pain, know that you’re not alone. There is science behind why this happens and its not an issue you have to just live with. Pregnancy changed my feet and with the right arch support plus stretching today I no longer struggle with foot pain.

    Why You Can Trust My Recommendations

    Hi! I’m Sara, a North Carolina mom of three boys who spends weekends exploring trails, parks, splash pads, and outdoor adventures with my family.

    After dealing with postpartum foot pain myself, I became determined to find outdoor gear that actually keeps moms comfortable while chasing kids.

    Everything I recommend is something I’ve personally used, thoroughly researched, or would confidently recommend to my own friends and family.

    In This Guide

    ✔️ The science behind why pregnancy changes women’s feet

    ✔️ Stretching exercises that make a huge difference

    ✔️ Comfortable sandals that I rely on postpartum (and where to find them secondhand for a deal!)

    ✔️ Real life examples

    My story

    Something that really doesn’t get enough attention is how pregnancy can change your feet. Of course we all bemoan the challenges of having swollen feet during those last few months of pregnancy but what about in the years after?

    My feet were absolutely wrecked after pregnancy.

    Somewhere between multiple pregnancies, constantly carrying kids, and spending years on the go, I developed foot pain that just would not go away. I dealt with tendinitis in my foot, ankle pain, and constant discomfort that made everyday life harder than it needed to be.

    I tried everything:

    • X-rays
    • MRIs
    • physical therapy
    • dry needling
    • different sneakers
    • inserts
    • stretching routines

    And honestly? What finally helped the most surprised me.

    Supportive sandals and regular stretching.

    Specifically: Teva sandals and consistent yoga stretches like downward dog. Find secondhand options on ThredUp for a DEAL!

    I know — it sounds overly simple but literally after all the appointments and expensive treatments wearing comfortable sandals postpartum with real arch support completely changed things for me.

    Pregnancy Can Actually Change Your Feet Permanently

    It turns out there’s real science behind this.

    Research has shown that pregnancy can permanently affect the arch structure of women’s feet. During pregnancy, your body produces the hormone relaxin, which helps loosen ligaments and joints in preparation for birth.

    Unfortunately, that loosening does not just happen in your pelvis.

    It also affects the ligaments in your feet.

    Add months of extra body weight and pressure on your arches, and it makes complete sense why so many women experience:

    • fallen arches
    • foot pain after pregnancy
    • bigger shoe sizes
    • plantar fasciitis
    • tendinitis
    • ankle instability

    And if you’ve had multiple pregnancies? The effects can compound over time.

    Now add in spending years carrying toddlers, standing all day, and running after active kids in unsupportive shoes and suddenly it all starts to make sense.

    Why I switched to supportive sandals

    For years, I kept trying to wear cute flat sandals that offered basically zero support.

    Big mistake.

    Once I finally accepted that my feet needed actual support — especially during hot North Carolina summers — everything improved.

    Teva sandals ended up being the best supportive sandals for my postpartum feet because they:

    • have real arch support
    • stay secure while walking
    • work for parks, creeks, and everyday outdoor life
    • do not leave my feet aching at the end of the day
    • hold up incredibly well over time

    I can wear them for full days outside with my kids without immediately wanting to rip them off when I get home, which honestly feels miraculous compared to where I was a few years ago.

    Archies flip flops are my number one go to for daily activities that don’t involve long walks or chasing. I also wear these around the house on days where I feel some lingering pain return because the support is critical on keeping that pain at bay.

    Mom Tip

    If pregnancy changed your feet, read this:

    If you’re struggling with foot pain after pregnancy, stop forcing yourself into flimsy sandals with zero support just because they’re cute.

    Your feet have been through a lot.

    Find supportive sandals that actually work for real life, prioritize arch support, and add regular stretching into your routine. It made a bigger difference for me than almost anything else I tried.

    My Top Picks

    I love these for style, comfort, arch support and the neutral color goes with every outfit.

    Teva Hurricane XLT2
    Search ThredUp too!

    For casual backyard activities, a low key park day, a day at the pool or wearing around the house I LOVE my Archies flip flops. I own 7? pairs and wear them on rotation constantly.

    Archies Flip Flops

    Final Thoughts

    If I were recommending just one option to my best friend, I’d choose Teva Sandals bought from REI. When you’re a busy mom spending a lot of time outside with your kids, these cannot be beat – plus REI’s a retailer I trust for returns, customer service and more.

    Remember—getting outside with your kids doesn’t require perfect gear. It just helps when you’re comfortable enough to enjoy the adventure.

    Before You Head Outside…

    💜 I hope this guide helps make your next adventure just a little easier.

    Whether you’re heading to a neighborhood park, a North Carolina trail, or your favorite splash pad, I hope you spend less time worrying about gear and more time making memories.

    See you outside!

    — Sara

    Affiliate Disclosure

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely believe are worth your money and that I’d recommend to my own friends and family.

    https://pin.it/5sJZUL34l

  • The Best Sandals for Splash Pads (That Moms Will Actually Want to Wear)

    If you’re a mom who spends all day at the splash pad, you know the struggle of slippery shoes, sore feet, and walking across hot pavement… the right sandals can make or break a day of fun.

    The Sandals Solution

    Short on time? Here’s the quick answer.

    In this post I write about my experience and what I’ve found to work to reduce fatigue, prevent foot pain, keep my feet cool so I can focus on making memories, not worrying about footwear. Teva Sandals are now my everyday go to for all of our summer adventures.

    Before We Dive In…

    IIf you’re a mom in North Carolina long enough and you quickly create a mental checklist of which local playgrounds offer shade, which ones have a bench to sit on in the shade and clean bathrooms and which playgrounds are closest to ice cream shops. Summer in the old north state is no joke. Aside from making sure you always pack extra bottles of water and plenty of snacks, plan ahead with the best summer shoes for yourself – the mom leading the adventure! 

    After trying to stay cute and stylish with the worst flip flops or fashion sneakers I ended up with horrible plantar fasciitis and ankle pain. It was nearly debilitating, and in fact it really began to slow me down! I became obsessed with finding the solution and a big part of that came when my sister recommended the Teva midform platform sandals in black.

    The level of comfort is incredible, they can go from wet to dry, splash pad to mulch easily! They look cute and go with everything. My feet can breathe and I’m not dealing with wet soggy sneakers. In fact last week I wore my Teva sandals and got them completely stuck in the mud after seeing the impacts of our North Carolina drought on Falls Lake – found a hose outlet at the park nearby, cleaned them off and went on with my day chasing after my kids!

    Why You Can Trust My Recommendations

    Hi! I’m Sara, a North Carolina mom of three boys who spends weekends exploring trails, parks, splash pads, and outdoor adventures with my family.

    After dealing with postpartum foot pain myself, I became determined to find outdoor gear that actually keeps moms comfortable while chasing kids.

    Everything I recommend is something I’ve personally used, thoroughly researched, or would confidently recommend to my own friends and family.

    Stylish, comfortable, dries easily, supportive and goes with any outfit (except navy, ha!) I’ve worn these to walk miles on our adventures and still feel comfortable at the end of the day.

    My Favorite Teva Sandals

    Another pair I own, multi color straps. I’ve worn these a million times!

    Mom Tip

    Here’s something I learned the hard way…

    This summer while exploring a nearby lake my youngest and I both sunk our feet deep into mud. We weren’t planning to go back home so I had to figure out what did I have in my car to clean us up before our next stop?! Luckily I had supplies!

    Keep in your car for muddy days:

    • An old towel
    • Baby wipes
    • A jug of water from the sink
    • A small grocery bag for muddy shoes.

    Final Thoughts

    If I were recommending just one option to my best friend, I’d choose these Teva Sandals because they offer the best balance of comfort, durability, and value for busy moms who spend lots of time outside.

    Remember—getting outside with your kids doesn’t require perfect gear. It just helps when you’re comfortable enough to enjoy the adventure.

    Before You Head Outside…

    💜 I hope this guide helps make your next adventure just a little easier.

    Whether you’re heading to a neighborhood park, a North Carolina trail, or your favorite splash pad, I hope you spend less time worrying about gear and more time making memories.

    See you outside!

    — Sara

    Related Links

    You might also enjoy:

    Affiliate Disclosure

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely believe are worth your money and that I’d recommend to my own friends and family.

  • Best Outdoor Sandals for Moms

    Best Outdoor Sandals for Moms

    Finding the Right Sandals Postpartum

    As a 43 year old millennial mom of 3 boys I’ve hiked, biked, scootered, chased, climbed and more in this past decade+. If you’re like me, pregnancy left you with different feet than you had in your younger adult years and keeping up with active children means having the right footwear. I’ve struggled over the years with plantar fasciitis, tendinitis in my foot and ankle issues. I’ve had to come to accept the fact that fashionable footwear is not always going to be an option for me in this phase of life with 3 active boys!

    Summer in North Carolina brings incredibly hot days coupled with unpredictable rain showers. Our day could start out at a park, lead to a creak where we are likely to get our shoes wet then back to an ice cream shop before heading back home. Covering the same amount of steps on various types of terrain that my normal neighborhood walks do! 

    In the summer my sneakers are just too hot and I hate getting them wet, flip flops are not supportive enough so I’ve time and time again been purchasing Teva sandals. These sandals are incredible for walking all day, for being outdoors and provide incredible support. They stay on well and won’t slip when the terrain changes. I’m not kidding when I say I’ve worn them for full days and at the end of the day I’m not immediately taking them off. After years of off and on foot pain this is nearly a miracle in my book!!

    Top recommendations

    Tried and tested footwear to keep active moms going

    Top Pick

    Teva Midform Universal Sandals

    $60 – $65

    Versatile, cushioned sandals for active summer use.

    Specs

    • •Midform cushioning
    • •Universal strap design
    • •Durable build

    Pros

    • +All-day comfort
    • +Secure adjustable fit
    • +Water-ready

    Cons

    • -Less support than boots

    Affiliate Links – We earn from qualifying purchases

    REITeva

    Style Option

    Teva Hurricane XLT2 AmpSole

    $80 – $90

    Elevated sandals with chunky soles and superior support.

    Specs

    • •AmpSole technology
    • •Rugged outsole
    • •Quick-dry straps

    Pros

    • +Enhanced cushioning
    • +Stylish look
    • +Great arch support

    Cons

    • -Slightly heavier frame

    Affiliate Links – We earn from qualifying purchases

    REI

    Pool Day Pick

    Archies Classic Coral Flip-Flops

    $40.00

    Vibrant, waterproof flip-flops with built-in podiatrist support.

    Specs

    • •Real arch support
    • •One-piece design
    • •Ultra-lightweight

    Pros

    • +Prevents foot fatigue
    • +No blowout straps
    • +Waterproof

    Cons

    • -Runs a bit small

    Affiliate Links – We earn from qualifying purchases