Solo Mama Adventures: My First Time Out With All Three Girls & My Secret Weapon for Dry Hands

You guys. I did it. I actually DID IT. My first time taking all three of my girls – Stella, Ozzy, and baby Cherry – out and about by myself. And ngl, I was a little freakin nervous. Like, heart-pounding, 'what if I forget something crucial,' 'what if someone has a meltdown,' 'what if I drop a baby' kind of nervous hahah. But guess what? We survived! More than survived, we totally freakin thrived. It was a success!! :,)

I mean, I'm not gonna lie, it was a lot. A lot of planning, a lot of packing, a lot of deep breaths. But seeing their little faces light up, and just knowing I could do it, that I could manage all three of my precious babies on my own for a little adventure? Ugh, my heart could just burst. It’s those moments, you know? The ones where you feel like you’re truly a superhero, even if it’s just for an hour at Target or the park. And let me tell you, after all the hand washing, sanitizing, and wiping little noses, my hands were screaming for some love. That’s where my secret weapon comes in, but we’ll get to that in a sec. First, let’s talk about the actual adventure!

The Pre-Game Prep: Operation Mama Bear

Okay, so before I even thought about stepping out the door, I had to go into full-on 'Operation Mama Bear' mode. This isn't just a grab-and-go situation anymore, not with three little ones! Especially with a newborn, every outing feels like planning a small expedition. I swear, the packing list just keeps growing!

• The Diaper Bag Situation: This thing is practically another child at this point. I packed extra diapers for Cherry (and Stella, bc you never know), wipes (a whole pack, not just a travel size), a change of clothes for each girl (bc blowouts and spills are inevitable, right?), burp cloths, pacifiers, a small blanket, and a few little toys.
• Snack Attack: You guys know my girls. They are ALWAYS hungry. So, I packed a variety of snacks: fruit pouches, crackers, those little veggie straw things, and some fruit snacks for a 'just in case' distraction. Hydration is key too, so water bottles for Stella and Ozzy, and a bottle of milk for Cherry.
• Entertainment Value: For Stella and Ozzy, I brought a couple of small books and some little figurines. Nothing too crazy, just enough to keep them occupied for a few minutes if we had to wait in line or something.
• My Essentials: And then there's my stuff. My phone (duh), wallet, keys, and of course, my trusty L'Occitane hand cream. More on that later, but seriously, it's a non-negotiable now.

It feels like a lot, I know. And sometimes I look at the pile of stuff and think, 'Is this even worth it?' But then I remember how much joy it brings them, and honestly, how good it feels for me to just get out of the house and experience something new with them. Even if it’s just a trip to the grocery store. It's about making memories, even the chaotic ones!

The Adventure Itself: Controlled Chaos (Mostly)

So, we loaded up the car. Getting three car seats buckled, especially with a newborn carrier, is a workout in itself. Tanner usually helps me with this part, so doing it solo was a new challenge. But we did it! Cherry was snug in her car seat, Stella was chatting away about what we were going to see, and Ozzy was just happy to be going somewhere. My heart was full, but also a little bit like, 'Okay, Lo, you got this. Deep breaths.'

Our destination? Just a quick run to a few stores and then a little walk in a park nearby. Nothing too ambitious for the first solo mission, right? I wanted to set us up for success. And honestly, it went so much better than I expected! There were moments, of course. A little fussing from Cherry when she was hungry, a momentary disagreement between Stella and Ozzy over who got to push the stroller, but nothing we couldn't handle. I just kept reminding myself to stay calm, take a breath, and remember that these little moments are fleeting. Even the challenging ones.

We laughed, we pointed out birds, we got some much-needed fresh air. And seeing Stella and Ozzy interact with Cherry, just being so sweet and curious, melts my heart every single time. They are the best big sisters. I couldn't imagine my life without them, or without these crazy, beautiful, sometimes messy adventures.

The Aftermath: Mama Hands Need Love!

Okay, so we made it home! Everyone was fed, happy, and ready for naps (well, Cherry mostly, Stella and Ozzy still had some energy to burn hahah). But let me tell you, by the time I got everyone settled, my hands were feeling it. You know that feeling, right? The dry, tight, almost chapped feeling from constantly washing, sanitizing, and just generally being a mom?

Between changing diapers, wiping sticky fingers, doing dishes, and just the general wear and tear of daily life with three little ones, my hands take a beating. And I'm a big believer in taking care of yourself, even in the smallest ways. Because if mama isn't feeling her best, it's harder to be the best mama you can be, you know?

That's why I'm so glad I have my L'Occitane hand cream. Seriously, you guys, this stuff is a lifesaver. I've been using it for a while now, and it's become such a staple in my routine. I have one in my diaper bag, one by my bed, and one in the kitchen. I'm not even kidding. I use it all day, every day.

My Secret Weapon: L'Occitane Hand Cream

So, why am I raving about this hand cream? Let me tell you:

• It actually works: This isn't just some fluffy, nice-smelling cream. It truly soothes my dry, tired hands. It makes them feel soft and hydrated, not greasy. Like, immediately.
• The smell is heavenly: I use the Shea Butter one, and it's just this light, comforting scent that isn't overpowering. It's a little moment of calm in my chaotic day.
• A little goes a long way: You don't need a ton of it, which is great because I'm using it constantly.
• It's a little luxury: Tbh, sometimes it's the only 'me time' I get in a day. Just taking a second to rub this into my hands, take a deep breath, and feel a little pampered. It's a small thing, but it makes a big difference in my mood.

Honestly, I couldn't imagine my hands surviving without it. It's helping so much ❤. And yes, this is a #loccitanepartner post, but you guys know I would never share something with you that I don't genuinely love and use every single day. We straight up use these over here, I'm just so grateful for it!

Reflecting on the Day: Small Wins, Big Heart

As I sat there, finally with a moment to myself, rubbing that amazing hand cream into my hands, I just felt so much gratitude. Gratitude for my beautiful girls, for the ability to have these adventures, even the challenging ones, and for the little things that make life a little easier and more enjoyable.

Being a mom is hard. Like, really, really hard sometimes. There are days when I feel completely overwhelmed, when I question everything, when I just want to curl up in a ball and cry. But then there are days like today. Days where I push myself out of my comfort zone, where I see my girls laughing and exploring, and where I realize just how capable I am.

It's about celebrating those small wins, right? The first solo outing with three kids? That's a HUGE win in my book! And taking care of myself, even if it's just with a really good hand cream, is also a win. Because when I feel good, I can show up better for my family. And that's what it's all about.

So, to all my mamas out there, whether you have one kid or five, whether you're venturing out solo or with a partner, just remember: you've got this. Take those deep breaths, pack those snacks, and don't forget to treat yourself to those little moments of self-care. You deserve it. And if you're looking for a hand cream that actually works, seriously, try the L'Occitane Shea Butter one. Your hands will thank you. :,)

What are your go-to products that make your mama life a little easier? Or your biggest 'solo outing with kids' triumphs? I wanna hear them! Share in the comments below, bc we're all in this together! Love you guys sm!!