a realistic day in the life of a designer & new mom (with timestamps)

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[@xomacennavlogs]

I hope you guys like the way this vlog is edited .. i wanted to try something a little different. let me know if you want more of these realistic day in the life videos :)

[@amberbiggs]

I liked it! I'm so curious what the blue looks like in real life. Maybe you can snap a photo and edit it in post to show us what it's like? lol

[@katechurcher4830]

@@xomacennavlogs Loved it. 😊

[@HBSVMom]

Beautiful video & amazing family time 🩵🤍

[@vickilewis2992]

Yes, love this video! You are such an amazing person!❤

[@margaritadiaz3779]

More, please! This video was so soothing.❤❤❤

[@thebenedit]

On behalf of your entire audience, please finish the door arches in the living room before starting any more projects!! 😂😂😂

[@rneustel388]

I second this comment!!

[@xomacennavlogs]

@@rneustel388hahah I’m trying to wait to do them all at once when I do the kitchen arch as well

[@rneustel388]

@@xomacennavlogs The kitchen is highly anticipated, let me tell you that! 🥰

[@Rebelhomeland]

Always seems to be a huge problem with creators. One job never gets finished before 100 more are started. She needs to concentrate on what she started especially now. Instead of taking on more. Baby is a full time job & putting more into daily life. Is a horrible idea!

[@ebug3470]

Hasn't bothered me one bit! I kinda like that it makes me feel like you have stuff that isn't quite finished up, too.

[@RyleeMcWilliams-vf4rm]

Coming from a mom, who has a 4 year old and a garden trust me, the garden IS a play area!! She’s always playing in it! Add a water feature, and a bench, and I’d recommend a swing or digging area or something so while you are weeding and working in the garden your kiddo has something to do!

[@naturesmymuse]

Great ideas! Maybe one of the planned garden beds could be a sand "box" for Cade and friends...until you're ready to plant it one day. Our boys LOVED digging in a huge sand corner and water play in our small SoCal yard. As they grew, our landscaping changed with them. We had a great landscape designer who helped us see our project through over multiple years.

[@brandyjean7015]

Because learning how to garden & grow your food is something that is taught at home!

[@Jessa8891]

Do you have another yard space though because they don't. This flat area is all the yard they have and now they have a child that will live an open area to play at home.

[@nyphira]

My advice is to add a moveable sand pit and swing set. A garden doesn’tneed all those built in features to be a play area for kids. My moms garden is much smaller but my brother and i had a small sandpit and one swing hanging from a wooden beam with metal safety clips. Easy to add, easy to remove. Doesn’t take up a bunch of space

[@Margaret.Probst]

This! My 3 year old loves our little garden bed

[@Quiteinfamous]

Don’t forget having a bit of lawn for when Cade needs to run a few laps in his toddler years. That’s how my family got me to sleep when I was hyped up 😂

[@marlymarlymarly]

my brother certainly was send out to loop around a big bush :D

[@Quiteinfamous]

@@marlymarlymarly sometimes they just need to run 🤣🤣

[@sherryhudson9075]

And a place to play soccer when he is older

[@kristywatkinsrotz2776]

Or a play set

[@miaroman9320]

That’s what I was thinking! Having a fenced lawn is gold in California!

[@tokiorxse]

I agree with everyone else about keeping the front yard for the baby to run around… the whole backyard does’t really have grass so the front yard tucked away and hidden is perfect for him to play and explore and truly be a kid.

[@Beth-kg1lz]

Tbh macenna, I wouldn’t be starting a veggie herb garden with such a small baby as it takes lots of care and time. Window boxes are a great, smaller way to grow herbs which might be a better place to start that’s manageable! That grassed area in the front garden is the perfect space to enclose for Cade when he is a toddler for a little baby swing or slide.

[@VirginiaSlims70]

Agree. I mean he is too young to be worried about a garden. I want to see the doorways finished..and what about the Texas house?? Is she tired of it? Is it for sale?

[@reading.bee.]

​@@VirginiaSlims70I think they're using it as a vacation home for now

[@melissahenderson6089]

its so funny how many of us moms in the comments say grass and thought about the need for a play area… i didn’t read the comments before writing mine but it just goes to show how necessary it really is! its so nice to get them outside and let them wear themselves out playing.

[@Jessa8891]

I think she's so used to living in a condo that she doesn't realize how having a yard in a home you own is so great. Especially with a child. It's nice to not have to go to a public space to play and to have your own sometimes.

[@This_is_Ridiculous]

I’m a mom and our entire front yard is a garden. Our backyard is for the dogs lol we do live in a neighborhood that has several parks and walking paths and ponds. I say go for the garden. You can play anywhere. You cant learn where you’re food comes from except going on a trip to a farm or growing it yourself lol.

[@beckyb7923]

@GardenAnswer is a wonderful knowledge base for garden design. Though she has acreage, she likes slightly more formal with whimsy mixed in. She always says never have a bed wider than three feet. You want to be able to reach all the way across when planting or harvesting. They are gurus with irrigation tape, zones, etc. Her raised vegetable bed is inside a picket fence and is such a neat, tidy design.

[@dominiquerae8187]

They have also put in beds at other people houses with less space as well!

[@Tiffany_Moon]

Yess I second this as well!

[@LindaKayHolevas]

I love Laura & Aaron with Garden Answer. Such a great channel!

[@chrismctague5015]

I love Garden Answer too. The whole family is a wealth of plant knowledge. Maria Killam, The Color Expert, always raves about her garden designer, Mary Ann White. She designed all the landscaping at Maria's former home and is working on the design for her new home. She designs so it can be completed in stages because landscape work is so expensive.

[@mjandbeans]

Same love the Garden Answer videos! They have all different kinds of gardens, formal gardens, vegetable gardens, cut flower gardens, water features and fun play areas for the kids! A great resource to get ideas 😊

[@ValerieCraig-rw4fz]

You may want to hold off for a couple of years on the garden as baby won't be able to "help" until he's 3 or 4. Also, a lawn is a good place to run around and burn off some of that energy once he's walking. Since you are a newbie to growing your own vegetables, perhaps you could start out with large pots until you are ready to expand to a full blown garden. It's easy to grow tomatoes, peppers, carrots, potatoes, berries, lettuce, herbs, etc. in large plant pots. This is how I taught my grandsons to garden.....they each had a large pot of their own and they got to pick what went into these 2 pots. You can also plant some annual flowers around the outer edges of the pots to disguise the veggies which are planted in the centre. These pots could be placed on your front porch by the kitchen door or on your back patio by the pool or upper patio by your eating area and BBQ.....wherever the sun is best. Best of luck.....once you've mastered container gardening, raised beds will be a breeze.

[@sueriley4412]

@@ValerieCraig-rw4fz planting herbs in pots work as well. I had an herb garden q10 foot round one with a post in the middle with a humming bird feeder and it was support for hollyhocks.

[@dawsonl7647]

I 100% agree, start with container planting for a couple of years before making any decisions and investments on something that is actually a lot of hard, consistent work to maintain.

[@lerojoful]

Great suggestions!!

[@Morganjenkins0422]

Baby Cade is going to need lots of grass area to run around. Smaller garden so he can run around. They grow so fast!!

[@marcelamars7758]

That big cleared area in front of the house, would make the perfect space for a little boy. As a mom of 2, I can tell you that your little boy will need and appreciate that space to run around and enjoy all types of boy activities. Perfect for releasing energy and getting good at throwing a ball with dad, and build those memories. Sometimes we as creative minds, have to think outside our needs to create and build cool things, when we notice that others around us also have their own interests. Owning a home and starting a family is about that family and how we sacrifice and support each other’s needs and interests.

[@01baia]

All children need running around space. So I totally agree with this comment.

[@cathleenweaver6483]

Agree especially with boys. I was a single Mom of 2 boys (grown now with families of their own). We lived in apartments so not a lot of grassy area. I would take them to the local park every night after dinner to "run" them so they would go to sleep hehe 💜💙💚💛🧡

[@glyniscarlson1165]

Using that large grassy area for a garden…it struck me right away that you might regret not keeping that space as a “play area”. I know couples who have sold their homes when a child arrives for one with more grassy outdoor space. You can do a small garden bed and expand later..but don’t forego making memories of dad & son playing catch or games at a birthday party!

[@katarzynajanik5507]

yes and addd something like peace of fabric that could work as a roof for when its too hot!

[@Kathy-e6o]

Perfect for children play area!!!

[@abbyehahn]

EpicGardening here on KZbin is amazing and based in California! His homestead and gardening advice is truly epic.

[@caroltiendo]

Came here to also recommend @epicgardening (and their second channel @epichomesteading)! Kevin and Jacques are so down to earth and make learning how to grow food so fun and accessible to gardeners of all levels of experience 😊and their being in a similar climate to yours should help. They also have their own online shop where you can purchase quality gardening equipment, seeds, etc.

[@georgiajumeaux6490]

As a mum of a 4yo and an 18mo, i would keep as much grass as possible because in a year cade will want to be running around all day, every day. Its so good to have an area for kids to get all their wild energy out ❤ i'd start smaller with a veggie garden and have the opportunity to make it larger if you find you dont need more room for cade to play ❤

[@georgiajumeaux6490]

I wrote this halfway through and now at the end I realised you said the exact same as I wrote 😂

[@marcyfalconer1275]

Don't forget you need room for your son to play outside. You can start small on the garden. Everything doesn't need to be a massive project. Thank you for sharing

[@sueriley4412]

I was thinking the same thing. Our boys were a year and a day apart. Full of energy.

[@lindafrance9192]

Especially while he is very young and not yet in school. You’ll want him to be where you’re able to watch him closely. I would start with maybe one raised bed to maybe grow your herbs and a few other things such as tomatoes.

[@nicemoon9900]

Guauu like Versalles gardens😊

[@mollyo4213]

I was thinking the same thing; my kids loved their sand box and swing set.

[@kellyparker1444]

If you are looking to learn about gardening and growing food, I can’t recommend Garden Answer KZbin channel enough. Such beautiful gardens and so informative x

[@donnaryan9365]

Cannot agree turning anyone into Laura at Garden Answer!!! Watch it everyday and sometimes twice! I’ve learned so much from her.

[@kellyparker1444]

@@donnaryan9365 I cannot recommend her enough, she is epic. I too watch everyday, my garden has only survived thanks to her advice.

[@Lisa_Osborne]

YES! I watch Garden answer every day they release a video! :)

[@saraw8503]

Laura and Aaron are my favorite content creators.

[@CynthiaLuna-gc1sd]

Love to see all of you all together. I thought it was sweet of Romeo to call Kinsley over so she wouldn't feel left out. He is a wonderful daddy to his little family. Very thoughtful. God bless all of you. ❤❤❤❤

[@lzmash3]

Garden answer is one of the best KZbin channels! Just know in gardening it’s about the journey, there really is no destination. Nothing is permanent and there’s always next year!

[@MelissaNichols-s1m]

Garden answer has the dreamiest vegetable garden!

[@bribriannairb]

I can only speak from my perspective as a graphic designer but fiverr and similar sites are not great for actually getting sustainable clients and really promote undervaluing designers and the time it takes to produce original/effective work. I know you’ve done a few sponsorships with them (&good for you!) but wasn’t sure if you ever heard the perspective from the other side. I’ve freelanced on numerous sites and unless you got in really early it’s a waste of time for serious designers who want to actually make a living and hone their craft.

[@sarahward9723]

Definitely keep a decent amount of lawn area for Cade - hes going to love running around there! Could any of the areas in your back 'top' garden work as veggie beds? Even if only for practice

[@briannareeves8725]

One thing I love garden-wise is having my herbs in pots, that way I can bring them inside during the off season and can use them year round!

[@jayneliz478]

Here are my top 3 for gardening and then some… 1)Acre Homestead - Becky is amazing as a new mom and still able to manage gardening for her family on various degrees. 2) Garden Answer - she has a phenomenal July Tour that showcases so many ideas!!! 3)Epic Gardening - my go to for all else gardening!

[@Lrknn-eh5pp]

You may want to wait on permanent changes to your front garden. Littles need a soft place to play and grass is really good for playtime. I'm a mom of 3 and outdoor play was essential for the kiddos for several reasons.

[@genellwhite497]

Is it time to finish the arches on the family room side?

[@tracygarrett3952]

We'll know it's time when it happens.

[@LynnBFoster]

Yes, it’s time

[@VirginiaSlims70]

​@tracygarrett3952 are you her mother?? 😂Wow, let macenna answer..

[@tracygarrett3952]

@@VirginiaSlims70 Hahaha just stating the obvious. It's not gonna happen on YOUR timeline. What do you want her to say?

[@imnumber142]

​@@tracygarrett3952 "What do you want her to say?" It was clearly a yes or no question. They want her to say yes or no. Hope this helps.

[@okiedokier]

I keep waiting for the video of you finishing the doorways into living room 😂

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

Gotta say I agree with this! As she talked about deciding on future projects, all I could see were those unfinished doorways above her head! 😂 I'd love to see a video of her finishing up all the projects with hanging, unfinished details. Even if she chooses not to include the details on the family room side, I'd love to see them finished and painted.

[@leeleescraps]

She could just have the kitchen guys finish them up lol

[@guitargirl4himify]

I would love to see you put in a garden. I am picturing it layered down like steps. BE SURE to include a drip system (I wish I had one when I put in my own garden)

[@xomacennavlogs]

ooo yesss! thats a great idea!

[@Soulfulcottage]

Yes!! It would look so pretty to terrace the beds, and DEFINITELY install drip watering while you’re doing it. Also, with so many people recommending leaving it as play space, what if you just do half the garden now and put a sandbox/ swing set on the other half for now, with plans to covert it into a full garden when you’ve outgrown the need for kiddie play space? A little of the best of both worlds! Also look up sensory gardens and natural playgrounds for ways to incorporate kiddie moments woven throughout the garden space!

[@whatlolawants2167]

MaCenna, the veining on that piece that's up the wall behind the stove is gorgeous! I can't wait to see you decorating the kitchen! ❤

[@MultiDonna26]

How about finishing the arches? ;)

[@dawsonl7647]

As someone who grows veg, trust me, it takes a looooot of your time and energy. Personally, I would leave the lawn as is - its a perfect, clear and safe space for Cade to play, run around with a ball, roll about in the grass, play with his toys, etc. So I would leave the lawn and pick elsewhere for veg. Start small, you don't need as much space or direct sun as you think, plus you can grow lots of veg in pots and planters or veg trugs on a patio that you can move about and clear up once the season has ended. Keep the lawn for Cade.

[@lesleyharris525]

Roots and refuge is a good one for gardening (she's a homesteader) she moved a few years ago and started from scratch. ❤

[@breenicoll2107]

One thing I recommend for your vegetable garden, is to start a compost system now so that you can plant it in with your soil. You could use a Japanese Bokashi Bin which is a system that pickles / ferments your waste and is suited to small spaces, or just a regular composting bin (I'm not 100% sure what you call them in the USA).

[@rhombus89]

I've been a fan of this channel and the main channel for years but since many people come here to learn, I think it's worth flagging there's an educational difference between interior designers and decorators. The term interior designer is a professional role that requires formal training and in some locations credentials. Unless MaCenna has recently obtained a degree in this area she'd be considered an interior decorator. I believe she even spoke about this in a podcast early on.

[@giuliantoneIIi]

yes, thank you. i lover her content, this is definitely my comfort youtube channel, but when she calls herself a designer it always triggers me. as a design student, i have to study for 5+ years to be called that and it takes a lot of sweat and tears, so to hear someone call themselves a designer without having the credentials for it, feels extremely invalidating. she’s a creative for sure and a truly great decorator, but there’s so much more that goes into design than just furniture

[@rhombus89]

@@giuliantoneIIi oh, for sure. I'd almost swear she has a whole podcast section talking about the difference in relation to her mom's work so I don't know why she feels the need to call herself a designer here.

[@VirginiaSlims70]

Agree. She is a decorator, NOT a designer. It's an insult to those who have gone to college for that degree

[@-Beauty-at-Home-]

I believe she does have a degree in design. She went to design school, she spoke of it when her younger niece began attending. I can’t think of the name right now.

[@Heydrayheyhey]

@@-Beauty-at-Home-you mean fashion design? So she is calling herself that in the title of a lifestyle vlog even though she doesn’t actively practice it and the video has nothing to do with it? Very misleading

[@cd2659]

That free area is where your boy will play ball, soccer, golf, and play with the dog. A large patch of grass is awesome for a kid. My 17 year old boy is still playing in the open grassy area in our yard.

[@rosevanstaden4562]

Amazing ! I started a herb garden when I got pregnant and it was my sanctuary. Later it became the fun garden with baby. I’m glad I didn’t do gravel and kept grass because as baby grew they loved running around and playing ball with dad. So our small patch of grass and veggie garden became our fun place. Good luck and have fun

[@debrap947]

Little ones need space outdoors to kick a soccer ball, play with a wee little golf set, chase bubbles, and get chased by Mommy and Daddy. 😉

[@jclosestudio]

Love the fountain in the middle! You could add a concave curve to each bed to the corners closest to the fountain - think gardens of Versailles. You could also make the beds triangular and have the paths like an X (again, Versailles).

[@jodyessenhigh3637]

As a long time gardener and Mum of a boy I have the following humble advice - applaud you for wanting to teach Cade this skill - my son is now 20 and he has an amazing veg patch - pls understand that veg patches have an element of messy about them - tools, fertiliser, pots, compost etc - making room for this in yr garden (and a way to tuck them away so they don't spoil the pretty and keeping them out of little hands) as part of yr initial plan will save you pain in the long run - and making sure Cade still has space to run around and kick a ball is important too. Being in our veg patch are some of my happiest memories with my son (as an aside we never had any trouble getting him to eat his veggies - my biggest issue was getting them out of the garden, washed and into the kitchen before they were gobbled up - of course they were organic and a little dirt never seemed to hurt him anyway - and what mum is going to complain about their kid who snacks on veg from the garden) 😊

[@annehocking430]

Aww, Kinsley, still a precious member of the family. Her sitting on your lap while talking just like before baby arrive made my heart happy. ❤

[@CaryannCathlene]

What are the chances I’d get on KZbin just in time for my favorite person to upload? Immediately dropping everything to watch now. Yay! 😁

[@xomacennavlogs]

omg you're so sweet

[@FreckledGemini]

Same! Just came in from lawn work. 😊

[@debbiegordon7622]

Yes this was what I needed today..Start out with an herb garden and then work into a vegetable garden later on .Mint, oregano and Rosemary spread like wild flowers and takes over and kills out other stuff. Learned that the hard way but it was a learning experience and just dug them up and relocated them to other spots I don't care about. Nothing like cutting and drying fresh herbs .Having a vegetable garden is an amazing experience and to see your hard work in the end is awesome 👍

[@marlymarlymarly]

deffo keep those in a pot or theyll take over! also think tomatoes are beginner friendly!

[@debbiegordon7622]

@@marlymarlymarly i wished I had done research before I planted them or I'd never planted them in the ground in my garden beds..lesson learned the hard way.. LoL

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

They're pretty in pots or in the landscaping around your kitchen.

[@LOLZHAHANOTFUNNY]

I'm holding my 17 day old son while watching this video. Motherhood looks amazing on you MaCenna! Our boys are such a joy on this earth!

[@catlovernat]

Roots and Refuge! Jess raised her kids in the garden and she covers a lot of topics like gardening is hard, but it's okay because plants want to grow.

[@vickinoeske1154]

You might consider growing your herbs in pots right out of your kitchen. When I had our herbs in our vegetable garden, it was inconvenient to stop cooking to go pick herbs. Now they're in pots on our deck right outside the kitchen door. Perfect.❤

[@cristinatapia129]

Once you start a garden it will never feel too big!! I keep expanding mine and alwayd regret not making it bigger since the beginning

[@juliecree8756]

I have learned the most about gardening from watching Garden Answer on KZbin. Cant recommend this channel enough.

[@0005885]

I purchased a Greenstalk planter to grow strawberries and herbs with my 4 year old granddaughter. It is a stacked type of raised bed on a smaller scale. Really look into it as a beginning way to garden. Mine is on casters so I can turn it and move it. It could easily fit on your back patio near the kitchen and pool or be moved later. You just water from the top and drips down to water the smaller 5-7 inch pockets below. They offer a lot of suggestions on what to plant in each type. Love your videos!

[@audreyflores6715]

I agree with the other comments. Please keep some of the lawn for Cade and any future siblings! We haven’t had a chance to re-do our backyard but I’m missing having the chance to let my 16month run around and explore. The grass is much softer for them to fall on!

[@Tanya-M]

For your garden, a very good example of raised beds on a slope is Becky's from Acre Homestead. You can check out her videos of when she had landscapers build the garden area for ideas.

[@BSmyles2019]

It's a XO MaCenna kind of afternoon. From podcast to vlog video. LOVE catching up on your life. Gotta see what my virtual friend is up to!

[@OFCOURSE20]

afternoon.. NOT in UK lol

[@BSmyles2019]

@@OFCOURSE20 lol. its a late after noon here. Im pretty sure its night where you are.

[@pedroescobar1165]

The morning sun in the intro clip wow the formal living room looks so dreamy and picturesque

[@xomacennavlogs]

the sunlight is so beautiful in that room in the mornings!

[@courtenaypruitt]

Gardening is so therapeutic to me and there’s nothing like the taste of your first vegetable that you grew. I learned with my mom teaching me growing up and I cherish that. We actually just recently made a pea gravel garden bed area and bought vego garden beds that are modular and you can change the layouts. They’re more modern looking than I liked but I got the navy color and they look really good! Also, your son will still have room to run and play. Don’t let others discourage you for taking up such an amazing and fulfilling hobby that you can share with him 💕

[@TheMsjagfan]

Plant blueberry bushes! Children love love love to pick sweet treats when outside. It is an adventure everyday.

[@sierrasmith9173]

A keyhole garden is a raised bed that you can make any size you want- super designed and beautiful and perfect for kids to get involved without stepping on everything!

[@MrsLizDuenas]

The way you manage it all is admirable. 😌 Can’t wait to see the final kitchen. It’s looking so good!

[@LauraLovesMusic702]

Honestly, it isn't a landscape designer you need, but someone of the gardening field. I don't think that raised beds are necessary, the slant won't hinder your crops in any way. I can easily imagine a cottagy type of garden in that corner, with a more rustic feel. That way, baby cade can also enjoy the garden with you as he gets older, small toddlers love gardens! Keeping it at "floor level" will also be a great exploration ground for him as a kid, and it is also way less work to keep it floor level since all you need to do is maybe border it. Drainage will also be easier to handle

[@SherriSenel]

You have reached "renovation exhaustion "! I was there as well except I didn't have a newborn to cherish and enjoy amongst the noise and chaos! I applaud you in so many ways. Your patience and kindness are genuine and I believe that's what endears all of us following you! Life is real. However what you personally bring to the table makes such a difference! You always bring happiness and warmth!

[@madelineoneill6752]

I think keeping grass around the raised beds would really help make it look like it fits in with the rest of the yard. Side note, my favorite garden yt channels are: Charles Dowding, Huw Richards, seasonal homestead and The Elliott Homestead. It sounds like what you are wanting is a “kitchen garden” you can try looking that up along with “French” and “cottage” etc for inspiration. I would definitely start with herbs, a tomato plant or two, some lettuce and maybe beans. Keep it simple and plant what you actually are going to eat.

[@mdemarzi19]

For actual planting and such, get seed time! It’s an amazing garden planner that tells you exactly when to start your seeds, when to plant, and harvest time! It’s amazing!

[@charlottefletcher]

Could you terrace the garden? I think it would look nice to make the raised beds essentially large steps and then have a flat area at the bottom.

[@annehocking430]

I agree with some others, the pale blue (even if darker off camera) doesn’t seem to be the right choice of colour for the hood, remembering you want the hood to stand out as a statement piece? Maybe you plan on using blue decorative pieces to tie in with the blue of the hood? Anyway, like you said, it’s just paint and can be changed and when the whole kitchen is complete you will know if you have made the right choice. The kitchen is gorgeous and I’m so excited to see it completed. Yes, more of these videos please. 🤗

[@michaelamaestas4950]

Make a garden bench , out of the extra counter tops !!!!

[@kellykenny2916]

6:30am here in South Australia, morning coffee and MaCeena ❤❤❤

[@cblair3539]

We do a garden every year. We found it best to have sun all day, water in the evening, plus make sure you have a mix of flowers planted along with your vegetables. It cross pollinates, and it helps keep the bad bugs away.

[@jillbork2683]

Start saving all your cardbord! for your raised beds

[@denisefranks6094]

Would be lovely to have an area for your son to play ball with his dad, and any other children that may come along 😊

[@simoneschweizer5344]

It's never too early for a productive garden! My 1,5 year old already loves going out in our small garden checking for ripe berries! She knows exactly which colors to look for and then points and "asks" to pick them.❤ that space along the far left coming down the stairs (where in the plans you had herbs&bushes) would be perfect for some blueberry bushes, (thornless) raspberries, red currants, etc. after initial planting, they are easy to maintain while providing good harvests year after year... in my opinion a winning combo for busy parents! 🎉

[@jinglejacs]

Becky @Acre Homestead would be a good one to watch, she's a young mum and has been gardening and preserving for years now but her early videos would be great to catch up on too. She preserves a lot of food and she's a fantastic cook. def one to watch x

[@saraw8503]

I love her channel also. She has the kitchen and gardening process figured out.

[@leeleescraps]

I’d put some garden boxes in the backyard & keep the grass for Cade to play with a swing set & play structure.

[@beccariddle]

Loved the time stamps throughout the day. It was a wonderful to spend the day with you! ❤

[@ShelbyJolicoeur]

Those pumps are amazing. When I had my daughter in 97 I was tethered to a chair immobile while I pumped. I'm so excited for your garden! It will be so good for Cade. I'm also excited for my candle, I ordered it on Sunday and I love them all so much!

[@littletallon]

If you are right handed the sprayer would be good on the right? Unless you want it closer to the dishwasher?

[@kats3969]

That’s what I was thinking. If she’s right handed I would think the sprayer would be easier to use on the right

[@debrap947]

Exactly...I'm right-handed...using a left hand to use the sprayer could be baaaad!

[@athenakamvi5779]

Totally agree. Right side for sprayer

[@jerrahbermejo1041]

Motherhood looks so great on you! I can feel the genuine joy and satisfaction that you have ❤❤❤

[@marybrandenburg7127]

If you go with the raised bed garden, I suggest you install them all at the same time…one & done. You don’t have to fill them all with vegetables/ herbs from the get go. Just plant a couple with vegetables/herbs, the remaining ones you can fill with flowers (a cut garden) for vases, or something as simple as clover (it “feeds” your soil) and it’s beautiful. When I prepared my garden I covered it in red clover. People actually stopped and took pictures because it was so beautiful! It looked like a red, velvet, blanket. Other suggestions for a play area for Cade are also great ideas. Perhaps you have space for both. You could even do the center as a play area with raised beds as a surround. Even beautiful pots can make a great vegetable/herb garden and very easy to manage. Tucking vegetables/herbs in your existing beds is another idea. You’ll be surprised at how much yield you get just from that. Just know a garden is ever changing and can grow and change right along with your family.

[@stealthspaniel5255]

I enjoyed this video-we got a glimpse of your everyday life. It is so interesting! I remember the small camera you started with, and now you are a professional videographer! You have grown so much, and thank you for taking me on your journey! You teach design, you share your thoughts, and you give us ideas for the future.

[@chrissiemulligan3436]

Becky at Homestead Acre has a beautiful sloped garden with raised beds that might be a good source of inspiration. She also is such a good resource for both the growing side and for cooking the things you grow. Other channels that are favorites for gardening are Roots and Refuge and Garden Answer. I do think doing a balance of both a garden space and play space for Cade to eventually run and play in could be both beautiful and practical!

[@Zim799]

Garden Answer is my favorite gardening channel. She has a lot of info on herbs, vegetables, and flowers. Also, I love the new way of editing 😊

[@ceahorse56]

The green area would be better utilized as a play ground for Cade. Play set etc. Even a small garden is a big commitment maybe start out with one or two small garden beds at first. When he’s older he will live in the pool. Kitchen is beautiful!

[@sarahspringer3914]

So excited for you to have a garden! I really love Epic Gardening, Garden Answer, and anything Charles Dowding!

[@Heydrayheyhey]

The cabinets look black on camera, where is the warm walnut? 😢 and the hood looks gray. I didn’t realize you were going with the cool tones, maybe it works better with the brick?

[@HAppytobeHer]

A big yes to starting smaller in the herb garden area! Learning as you go is super important and not over yourself with too much produce at once 😊 I like Wyse guide for garden content!

[@nomadine85]

Yesss just got to the point where you said it would have a slightly smaller more organic shape for the garden and I’m so happy

[@medorakea7327]

i highly recommend you binge acre homestead & becoming a farm girl. i think they both have such grounded, realistic, holistic approachs to growing their own food.

[@janethernandez2934]

Also, the front yard would be nice to place an age appropriate Play set. Maybe could be half and half garden/Cades play area swing set / sand box etc.

[@krismatson2137]

I love your coffee mug - so happy you get to be a mama! I'm excited about your garden plan. We are in the middle of an outdoor space build ourselves so will enjoy seeing what your thoughts are and what your research reveals.

[@natasha1369]

If i were you, if you guys are right handed, i would put spray nozzle on right. Not left. When designing the garden remember to make it large/ wide enough for anticipation of growth of what plants you wish to plant. Also it looks pretty when the plants go in layers. The rows of tall at back, like your hydrangeas or hibiscas or roses. Then mid second would hold daisies, russian sage, phlox, Echinacea, lilies, ect, last row would be along front border, like creeping phloxs, shorter sedum, day lilies, ect. This can be filled with plants varying in blooming time to give you interest all year. It needs the right amount of space to grow to full size.

[@gabrielleking7609]

Love the day in the life! Love seeing mom life! 🤍

[@michellemorales]

I don’t know if you’re right or left handed, but I’d probably want the sprayer on the right of the faucet instead of the left so you don’t have to reach across constantly. The water filter spout could go anywhere since you’re usually coming up to the sink to fill a cup vs already using the faucet. Just my two cents! Though it’s probably too late. 😅

[@sarahanne4]

Acre Homestead is a fabulous gardening resource! Im obsessed with her channel and have learned so much from Becky! :)

[@miaroman9320]

Loved the new editing style! So calming and realistic! You had a busy day 👏🏼

[@beverlyrichards6489]

I'm loving your kitche design. The stone in absolutely gorgeous. Can't wait to see the space with the table.❤

[@walkwithMilo]

R.e veg garden, I grow my own, in a sloping plot round the corner from me on a communal allotment (very UK thing - shared community garden, everyone has their own space to grow). Not all veg like full sun, some need several hours a day, some thrive in partial shade. Consider space for a greenhouse to get the seedlings growing well, you'll also want space for 3 compost bins coz compost gets expensive and the shop bought stuff is usually rubbish (with literal plastic bits in it!). You'll also need space for waterbutts as veg tend to do better with rain water, and space for your tools. Have a look at Charles Dowding 'no dig' you tube channel, he's very good and explains all sort of things a novice needs to know. My veg has been awful this year - too much rain, too many slugs, not hot enough etc. Good potatoes and onions though! Great project Macenna.

[@karenmcgarry1418]

I have raised beds. 1. The soil settles, so fill them up, stamp down fill up more, and then wait. Mine dropped by a good four inches once the settled. 2. Depending on how deep you go, they take a lot of soil. You can put cardboard from your packages on the grass. 3. Definitely make your own compost, you could also look at having a wormery….Cade would love that.

[@symphoniecameron]

love that you’re thinking of adding a garden to your home!! i know it will aesthetically all come together super well but it will also be fun to watch you learn how to do it :) that’s something i’ve always wanted to do as well but been a little intimidated/overwhelmed with learning lol. also LOVE seeing a full day in your life!!

[@hayloftheritage]

Macenna, Take a look at the veggie garden in the Meryl Streep film 'It's Complicated'. I think that's your vibe and will fit with your home x

[@lindaga820]

Funniest movie ever, laughed my head off !!😂😂

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

Oh, now you're making me have to rewatch that movie! 😂

[@katedorman7042]

I LOVE that movie and that house and that garden! Swoon.

[@suewilson7580]

I love Garden Answer and watch it daily, absolutely great information, design and growing guides

[@studio_sam]

Tbh it’s kinda sad that you stained the beautiful walnut instead of using danish oil…

[@tracygarrett3952]

Please don't cry.

[@Rebelhomeland]

I couldn't agree with you more! When she went dark with that beautiful wood I couldn't believe it. What was even the purpose of selecting any speacial wood if you are gonna turn it into a dark color to cover the grain!

[@paigejohnson371]

Can not waaait to see the final product of the kitchen. It already looks SOO dreamy 😍😍

[@bubblakki]

It’s nice & kinda reassuring to know that even someone like you macenna who I have admired for so long & who is so unbelievably spot on with design choices is also human & can make dodgy choices too. That blue/ white hood colour…. Why? It seems extremely incongruous in your kitchen & does not seem to tie in with anything. Also putting that massive cupboard beside the door instead of shelves or may be half upper cupboards a shelf beneath would tie in with your usual aesthetic. This is just my opinion of course. I wish you all the wonderful joy & enjoyment of living & working in your fabulous kitchen.

[@01poppyblue]

No dodgy choices here!!! I think the blue hood is fantastic and will tie in with the blue accents she’s been talking about adding to the new kitchen. As she says on this video the actual colour of the hood doesn’t show well on video. She did explain why there is a cupboard there in a previous video. We don’t get to see all of the kitchen in the video so we need to trust what she’s been saying. If they decide the cupboard isn’t right for them it would be an easy fix for Macenna. I think it’s all coming together beautifully

[@meganludwig6427]

@@01poppyblueand you’re welcome to that opinion, just as those of us who don’t love some of these choices are welcome to ours :)

[@VirginiaSlims70]

​@@01poppybluethat's your opinion.. keep it

[@karimaoneallee]

Can't wait for the video of you organzing all your things into the new kitchen! 😆

[@FisherOfMothers_Alyssa]

Garden Answer is a great resource for learning about your plants!

[@sabrinahemingway2970]

Yes on the day in the life videos, your inspirations inspire me to do more of the things my brain percolates about all the time.

[@ChrisBury20]

Save room for the swing set, obstacle course for the bikes, and of course the basketball hoops. lol Happy Parenting.