Stay at Home Mom of TWO || VLOG 26 || My New Baby, Snowy Walks, and Vulnerable Chats

[@MrsMidwest]

Thank you for watching my friends! I realized I forgot to link the rain boots, so here is an affiliate link if you’re interested. I just peeked again and they also have pink and lavender, which is so pretty for spring! >>> amzn.to/3u8ruZM 🌸🌷🌙

[@charlie.wildflower]

Can you link the heat protectants and the hair towel please? I hope you are getting commissions with all your Amazon links!

[@mikhailboldt3417]

These kinda vlogs are so fun so comforting, make you feel so relaxed. I honestly think you’re one of the best examples Caitlin for traditional living/being a housewife. You don’t yell or scream or call people names, you aren’t super aggressive or abrasive all the time. Through your life and through the choices you make it becomes really clear how fulfilled you are and how happy honoring the Lord through being there for your family truly is. I can’t imagine how anyone could truly dislike you personally. Anyone can disagree with opinions or ideas but as a lady as a mom and as a wife Caitlin you’re amazing and a lot of people could better their lives by taking an example from you. God Bless you your hubby and your beautiful babies. We love you and pray for you!

[@loganthompson5374]

I completely agree!!!

[@zuhairfan2490]

Can you tell me why does she make bread in Church? Is that a tradition or something?

[@QuiteQuietASMR]

@@zuhairfan2490 I think it was just something fun for the women to do in the mom’s group. I’m sure they do different things each time they meet.

[@zuhairfan2490]

@@QuiteQuietASMR Interesting!

[@fraisedesbois7240]

I feel like you've gotten so much more "real" in this video if that makes sense. It's like you're letting your personnality shine through rather than trying to look super polished and perfect. I always loved watching your videos but this one idk, there's just a plus :) thank you for blessing us with vlogs haha

[@MrsMidwest]

I agree! I was watching an old vlog before babies for editing inspo, and I was shocked at how different my personality seems!! Lol!! I think I also was struggling a lot in the vlogs before Bodie’s pregnancy because we were TTC for a whole year and it was very difficult to go through. At the time I didn’t open up about it, but now I wonder if I had, if it would have been a load off.

[@annagarnet1232]

@@MrsMidwest Would you consider sharing a bit about your TTC journey? I’ve been married a year and we’re still waiting for a baby.

[@katerinanunez1901]

Your content is exactly what I need as a reminder that I’m not “wrong” for making choices for myself and my future family that go against the mainstream. I’d love an update on how your budgeting strategies as a homemaker have shifted since becoming a family of 4!

[@Aquelina]

You were one of the ones that awakened me years ago from the feminist haze and I couldn't be more grateful for it, I love how respectful you are too of other people's religions, is so rare this days. Sending lots of light and love in your way, if you read my comment please send me a prayer so I can find an amazing husband!

[@Aquelina]

@@Lilly-ds8sn Thank you very much Lily! Likewise, I'll pray to my Gods and goddesses so every good deed you've done returns to you seven times seven!!! 🙏😁💖💕 Namaste, my soul honors yours!

[@brent-m6m]

@@Aquelina the feminist haze is real and scary. Careful that a lot of this stuff comes from the new age which leads you away from God. I used to be new age for years and it’s idolizes the self and makes one prideful. Biblical femininity is the most beautiful and true things one could experience. ❤ God bless.

[@mrsjamescottage]

This might seem like a strange thing to say, but I love how "normal" your house is. That's not to say it's not beautiful, because it absolutely is - so many of your Insta snaps are on my Pinterest boards! - but when i look at your home, it inspires me to make little changes to beautify my home, not tear it all up and start again. Some creators have homes that look like show homes, and they make you want to drop thousands redecorating your space. Most of us don't have that kind of money - I know I don't! But your home is so full of warmth and intention - this is the kind of home we should aspire to have, not these grey and white palaces that look like art installations or dentists waiting rooms. No hate if your home is like that, but it's not acheivable/sustainable for most people. Beautiful, intentional, curated homes are just so beaitutiful. Slow decorating, people!

[@sashenkadumerve3017]

We all have no room to judge your homemaking, cooking, childcare ect. You are so brave for sharing this!! After seeing this vlog I am even more excited to embrace all the parts of motherhood the perfect and imperfect. No matter what anyone says, you are a wonderful mother and we can all see the delicate love and care you have for your little one! Thank you for staying on social media and Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@mrsglitter8373]

Has anyone else noticed how much more mature so quickly she has gotten since having babies?.. her facial expressions her voice everything is just noticeably more mature! 🥰

[@MrsMidwest]

Y’all are watching me grow up 🥲🥰

[@mrsglitter8373]

I remember your videos back in the day LOL where you were worried about having children because you didn't know if you would be a good mother and you didn't know if you would love them properly. And I remember commenting along with probably hundreds of other people that you would be an excellent mother and that it is different when you actually have children because you forget what it was like to not have them and you realize that the love is not a love that you develop like with your husband or a friendship but it's an immediate love that is so strong you would give up anybody's life for it. And look at you now!.... We can all see it in your eyes you are a wonderful mother and you love your baby boys so much!.... Motherhood is so awesome!!!! I love being a mother and I love being a woman!!! ❤️💋👠👠

[@faithwhatley6922]

Registered dietitian here-- for anyone reading this, know that FED is BEST! Breastmilk, formula... the experts say that fed is the outcome we're striving for, so try to ignore the haters! The immune components of breastmilk are good for baby, but that's never worth starving a baby and the physical/mental torment when you're struggling to nurse.

[@raraavis7782]

I'm curious...is it an either/or situation? Will the baby no longer accept breast milk, once you start bottle feeding? Because it often sounds, like you can't do some breast milk and then add a bottle, if the baby is still hungry. Or am I misunderstanding this?

[@kayoss2306]

@@raraavis7782 some people do both but it's not always completely straight forward. Some babies develop a strong preference for breast or bottle and won't accept one. Also breastmilk is a supply and demand thing, so if you're demanding less milk from your breasts because baby is filling up on formula then that can have a negative effect on your milk supply. Your body will only make as much milk as it thinks your baby needs, based on how much milk is being drained from your breasts. Some people really struggle to get their milk supply up if they're using formula too.

[@raraavis7782]

@@kayoss2306 Ah, thanks for explaining! I just assumed, you could give the baby a little extra and that was that. But I guess, it's a little more complicated!

[@NormieNeko]

My understanding is that the social class of the mother affects the health of the child moreso than whether breast milk or formula is being used. A formula fed baby from the upper middle class is generally less likely to be sick than a breast fed baby from the working class or lower middle class. Immunity is a lifelong endeavor that can be easily retarded by unhealthy eating habits when the baby becomes a young child. I've noticed this in both my sister-in-laws and their children, anyway. The middle class one breastfed all 4 until about age 1. They are all constantly sick with something (it's almost ridiculous). The other is lower middle class with 3 who were mostly or exclusively formula fed. The youngest 2 are hardly ever sick, and the oldest, who was exclusively formula fed, has almost perfect immunity. They both feed them a lot of junk food though, so it may come down to DNA (the kids' fathers' or what was passed down from both maternal grandfathers). I could go on about the family's addictions yet ability to live long with minimal side effects.

[@arencarrr]

fed is best❤️🌸 i’m not even a mother yet, but i empathize with that pain of not being able to breastfeed. motherhood has so many hidden struggles that aren’t talked about or understood until it happens to you💜

[@Hannahhcamillle]

1) Thank you, because this vlog got me through a massive pile of laundry I had to fold and put away 2) your babies are loved, comfortable, have a happy family and are fed. If the way they are fed works for them and for you, that's what's important. Those boys are happy.

[@MrsMidwest]

Thank you beautiful! This means a lot. And good job on the laundry. I just folded four baskets of it yesterday and it’s soooo overwhelming sometimes LOL

[@afcopwife]

Hugs girl. I have Raynauds and other autoimmune diseases too. The pain you described is so real; both physical and emotional. Thank you for sharing your story. God is using you to reach so many other women and encourage them.

[@MrsMidwest]

Wow thank you for writing to me! It’s always helpful to know I’m not alone. I had no idea that it could be a problem with nursing and it was so painful to deal with physically and emotionally. So much love to you! Xo

[@versatility1543]

As a young man of 22, I watch your videos with such warmth and hope in my heart. I am really happy for you, and your progression as a mom! You make me hopeful to work on myself continuously, in order deserve a kind nurturing feminine woman in my life, for me and my future children!

[@ziyamalik1666]

Good luck. Keep going and praying

[@literarymary4933]

This is such a beautiful comment!

[@DianaF74]

After laboring for 36 hours with my first, he was born via C-section with the cord around his neck. Subsequently, my other 2 children were also delivered surgically. I couldn't breastfeed any of them, though I tried really, really hard. You're so right that many circles put down woman like us. I didn't tell my story to any one for years. I finally let the Lord heal my hurt and can now share. I'm amazed how many women identify with my story and haven't spoken up for fear of rejection. I'm so happy you told your story. I believe another piece of healing happened in my heart today listening to this vlog. BTW, my oldest will be 14 soon!

[@unabellavita6541]

Your backyard looks like a Norman Rockwell winter painting! So beautiful!

[@mariahernandez6610]

you're the only person i put my notification bell on for! thanks for putting in the work of filming and editing all of this for us. you are such an inspiration of a counter-culture life that manages to be happy and calm. we don't all have to be obsessed with our careers to be a well-rounded person😊💖

[@MrsMidwest]

I’m so honored! Thank you Maria 🥳💜

[@marinavasquez8813]

Agree🎯💯🍂

[@angelajones4325]

As a Nana (and Mum !)) my heart broke for you when you were explaining how worried you were to share that you bottle fed your boys. Believe me, when you look back all that will be important is that your babies were happy and that you have many happy memories. As you point out, we all have our different stories, different paths in life and I think sharing can be so educational for us all. Congratulations on your beautiful children x

[@MrsMidwest]

I am feeling this more and more every day. It was so hard to not compare myself to my breastfeeding friends or to feel jealous or inadequate, but I had to realize that it was all going to be okay and that my boys are happy and healthy :)

[@Nymph_lovespell]

It broke my heart to see tears come to your eyes when sharing about your breastfeeding journey. It is exactly that strength and that capacity for emotion, understanding, and reflection that makes you an amazing mum already. ♥️

[@stephaniexoxo5445]

Thank you for sharing your struggles with nursing I wasn’t able to nurse really and had to pump and eventually switch to formula. Thank you thank you thank you! I feel seen for you opening up about it. We love our babies and just want to be the best moms we can be If you see this I just also wanted to add don’t feel pressured to open up more than you’re ready to about it while I appreciate it. You gotta protect your heart too!

[@aldenshay]

Your content is so calming and validating for me for some reason. I’m struggling to get any work done because I’ve been binging it! I had a terrible breastfeeding experience too and only did it for the first 8 weeks. Low supply no matter how much I pumped, drank water, ate the cookies, etc. and then got a terrible case of mastitis. I felt ashamed but then so relieved when I stopped trying and just committed to formula. You are so not alone in this, and definitely not alone in the way you felt. Thank you for your videos!

[@laurenh9674]

Oop, my favorite family! 😂 Haven’t even finished watching yet and I’m loving it. Who else has the notification bell turned on?! ☺️❤️🙌🏾

[@brettstaub7431]

I got pregnant when my daughter was only 5 months old and it significantly affected my milk supply so I had to give up breastfeeding much sooner than I was planning and I definitely related to your feelings about it! We are still providing for our babies even if they have to take bottles, we still love and care for them just as much as women who can breastfeed for as long as they desire! So proud of you for sharing! Thank you for the encouragement!💕

[@Billybloop]

Your cycle won't return that soon (I'm sure there are very rare exceptions) if you bed share and nurse completely on demand. If you are interested research ecological breastfeeding. Many women in communities who practice this have around a 2 or 3 year gap between births. I don't know about you but it's also great not having to experience a cycle. I am nursing my daughter and I got pregnant with her the first time I ovulated when my son was 18 months old and nursing. I am 34 and haven't had a menstrual period since I was 29. I really don't miss it.

[@katieociardha2196]

​@Billybloop hey, I'm that rare exception - I did ecological breastfeeding and got my cycle back 28 days after birth and was pregnant again 4 months postpartum. I also grieve my breastfeeding journey stopping earlier than I expected with my first.

[@ShristisWrld]

Caitlin, I'm loving your vlogs so much and feel so inspired. I love seeing this real side of you and thank you for opening up about your breastfeeding struggles because I'm sure so many other women experience the same thing and found healing in it. God bless you, your family is gorgeous!

[@brittanymoudelle]

You so warmly & joyfully radiate as a mom! Absolute beautiful thing to witness. I liked you before, but now- wow!! Beautiful family & life you've created, and I'm not just glossing over, I know we all have our struggles, but you should truly be proud! Rare and God blessed

[@nonentity9045]

Formula was created so babies can survive. This isn’t a new thing, women of different decades have been struggling to feed their babies and unfortunately with formula not being available durning the dark ages those babies died, praise God for these blessings of the modern day. God is great, and your doing great as well, keep it up and don’t let shame of the world get involved into your mothering.

[@vanyas4952]

Sorry but that’s not true at all, in the past babies were fed goats or cow milk if the mother was unable to produce enough for whatever reason, and have you ever read the ingredients list on formula? It’s toxic slob for the most part with very limited good options

[@HaleySmith]

@vanyas4952 true and to be even more brutally honest other mothers and wet nurses fed most babies. We had a village and then we destroyed that village.

[@amyj4283]

Formula is made up of powdered milk, corn syrup, vegetable oil, and vitamin drops. Women can make it at home. It just won’t look/sound as appealing.

[@franpizarro98]

I'm a 23-year-old woman in med school, society has always pushed me to be the best professional, girl boss, work hard be better than everyone. I never really wanted that, and since becoming a subscriber in 2019 I've come to realize this is what I want. I still want to work part time, but I really want to be a mom and create a home.

[@naturalbodyandskincare9965]

Congrat on getting into med school , I will say though that I’m lucky enough to be quite younger and I’ve grown in a society where the ‘girl boss’ ideology is now used as a joke - and nowadays women are supported in both their desires regarding motherhood and / or career.

[@Yoliisun9]

I’m 24 in my last year of vet school and I also find this channel around the same time as you and knew that this lifestyle is for me. My number one priority after finishing university will be creating a family and caring for my community.

[@hillcountrycottage]

Caitlin...in line with your honesty and that you briefly referenced an earlier video you did mentioning family estrangement, etc., I wanted to share something from my heart to you. I am old enough to be your mother (a YOUNG mom.....but still!!!! LOL) and my husband and I do not have children. ( Just the four-legged kind!) I remember a few years ago watching one of your earlier videos and saying to my husband, "If I ever did have a daughter........I would have wanted it to be her." I know that I'm not alone in thinking that. You are dearly loved for who you are and are seen for all of your beautiful qualities. You're a blessing!!!! 💕

[@MrsMidwest]

This made me tear up! Thank you for writing this to me 💜💖💜

[@rebekah4593]

It's crazy to see how much your life changes in such a short amount of time!

[@farahasaint]

Your honesty/transparency is a breath of fresh air 💕💕💕

[@amandakate1247]

Bodie and Troy are an answered prayer. Your body is a miracle life making machine! Proud of you sister ❤️

[@nah94279]

I am so happy to see you doing well, and thriving! I know sometimes there is a feeling of, "I don't want other people to feel bad that I am doing well, or think that it was all easy from the start because it wasn't", but seeing a happy thriving family gives me joy and hope for myself and other women. Please continue what you are doing, and pay little mind to the strange trolls online! Lots of love from a Muslim woman in Pennsylvania (I have been a subscriber for years!)!

[@MrsMidwest]

Thank you my dear! You are so kind. I’m grateful for your insight 💖

[@nah94279]

@@MrsMidwest I am glad to be of any help! Thank you for spreading positivity and joy online!

[@Chelseamayhew42]

I love this vlog. It was real and fun. My son was born via c section and slightly early. He would latch but not suck during breastfeeding. I was heartbroken. It took me some time to get over but my son was fed and happy and growing with the bottle. He is now almost 4 and is smart as a whip and thriving! Thank you for sharing your journey and know you aren't alone. You are helping lots of women with your openness. ❤

[@wayNAY87]

Long time subscriber here. Thank you for your transparency. You are helping people and showing them your depth. Beyond your tips, you are human. And showing your humanity makes you a role model.

[@patriciag6127]

Absolutely love these vlogs. Thank you so much for being so open and honest with us. So many things you talk about we can relate to and genuinely help us when/if we encounter them in our own lives. Such a beautiful family you have. God bless!

[@queenofscrolls7585]

Caitlin your transparency is so inspiring. Many women struggle with issues around fertility, yet we can be great mothers. Thankyou for sharing and helping others feel less alone💚

[@josefin3320]

omg seeing Troy looking like a mini version of Bodie (who's already so tiny) is THE cutest thing ever

[@MrsMidwest]

Yessssss!!!

[@carigolden3866]

Love seeing you and your husband interact in videos. So sweet!

[@rachelahlbin2066]

So grateful for your content Caitlin!! I’m 8 weeks pregnant and watching your videos makes me super excited for mom life ❤️💕 Love seeing beautiful homemakers like yourself showing the world how awesome traditional living is! 🙌🏼

[@MrsMidwest]

Congratulations Rachel!! What a blessing. 🥰🥰🥰

[@autumnmccollough298]

I appreciate you opening up to us. I think it’s important to guard our hearts and protect ourselves but telling our story can also be so powerful. ❤️

[@5674Kc]

Aw Caitlin, always keepin it real! Just found out Im pregnant and your birth stories were honestly encouraging. That even if things dont go the way you hope or plan, its in God's hands and He carries us through.

[@babycakemoon7579]

I always watch Mrs Midwest’s vlogs in bed before I go to sleep!!✨✨ makes me feel content, cosy and soft! I added the Vlog to my auto playlist so it goes on and on! It’s been a while and now Caitlin created an hour-long Vlog!!?? Feeling so spoiled!! 😍🥰🥰🥰

[@savannahpotter2339]

Thank you for sharing some much of your life with us - the ups and the downs. I’m sure it can be difficult some days to open yourself up to the amount of criticism you receive, but I’m so grateful you continue to share your life on KZbin. Watching your vlogs make me look forward to marriage and motherhood so much:)

[@HannahKosoff]

Im too young to be a mom but omggg stop making it seem so tempting! Your home lifestyle everything seem so aesthetic and you look like you are doing a great job and loving it 😍 literally life goals

[@rae5222]

Hey Caitlin! I just wanted to let you know that I am so happy that I stumbled upon your channel. I am 24 and just became a full time homemaker/housewife a couple of months ago. At the beginning I felt so alone and different because I didn’t know that many people who have a similar lifestyle to me. Also I was afraid of being judged and being called lazy because I don’t have a “real job”. But then I found you and all of that changed! Your blogs and videos have made me feel so much more confident with the lifestyle that I chose and love. I rewatch your advice videos all the time because they are exactly the reminder that I need!! You have no idea how much of an encouragement you are to me. Thank you for all that you do❤❤❤

[@MrsMidwest]

This is exactly what I set out to accomplish when I began my online presence. I am so happy you don’t feel strange or quite as alone anymore! We are all here for you! Xo

[@rae5222]

@@MrsMidwest you’re the best 🥰❤️

[@shepursuestruth3569]

An hour long vlog from Mrs. Midwest, what a treat! ☺️ Thank you for sharing glimpses into your life and all the advice as a wife and mom. Your vlogs never fail to inspire me! Also, my husband is a fireman and we got married a year ago, so I totally relate with having a husband who’s a first responder. God bless you and your family! ❤️

[@shayescottage]

I recently left my job to become a homemaker and work more on my KZbin channel. I may end up picking up some part time work when the right thing pops up, but for now its working so well for my fiance and I. I never thought he would love me being home so much. We always have an organised home and we get to spend so much more time together because our schedules aren't so opposite. I've never been happier. Thanks for making me feel less alone in this world and encouraging me to do whats right for myself and our family x

[@jessicaturner6014]

As someone who also have bid to trauma and still cries over a difficult breastfeeding journey, I straight up sobbed when you teared up. I feel so seen and so understood by you.

[@faesky]

I've been watching your videos for so long, i can't believe how much life has changed but still this video feels as good and cozy as always. you truly are a blessing for the feminine community 🤍

[@takemetothelakes45]

I love love LOVE watching Boden’s personality shining through in these vlogs. He is so goofy and sweet!

[@Laura-qh6ek]

These vlogs are like chicken soup for the soul! They are always so beautiful and heartwarming. I am just a college student working on my homework right now, haha, and found this vlog so comforting as a break in between my assignments. With all of the crazy content we all see on the internet these days, I think wholesome vlogs like this actually make the world a better place. God bless your family, Caitlin! You were the first person who introduced me to feminine living and it definitely changed my life for the better. Keep being you, sister!

[@cristinac.m.523]

Dear Caitlyn, thank you for being so open about your struggles as a new mom. As a new mom myself i know just how hard it can be. I'm sorry you were not able to have the breastfeeding experience you wished for. We are all just doing our best and that is enough! xxx

[@marthak9360]

Yay, I love the longer video! Thank you for sharing your life with us! You always make me feel so empowered in my own journey - homemaking, now expecting our first baby! Thank you for all you do! The lord bless you and your beautiful family always ❤️

[@katschme79]

Thank you so much for your honesty! I also struggled to breastfeed both of the kids I have so far. I was so depressed about it the first time around, but perspective helps a ton. When your kids get to be a bit older (my oldest is 4) and parenting is about so much more (I think it can feel like breastfeeding is the only “measure of success” in those early months- that’s how I felt the first time around anyway), you get to see how they’re thriving in large part because of all the love and thoughtfulness you’ve poured into them! I can also see now how God has used this struggle to make me trust and rely on Him more. Blessings to you and yours!!

[@MrsMidwest]

This is absolutely true. With Bodie I sobbed about it and stressed for so long, but with troy it was an easier decision to make because I could already see how well developed and delightful Bodie had become, already at one!

[@aniacool314]

Thank you so much for opening up about your motherhood journey! I find it very encouraging, and informing. May God bless you! ❤

[@anneboleyn1357]

Thanks for being so open and honest about motherhood and family.... it has helped me so much. Would love to hear you go further about these difficult topics. Feel like you'd be very nuanced about it. Particularly family estrangement - that would help me so much if you're willing to talk more about it. You look as beautiful as ever, stay fresh!

[@hollyann1325]

I’ve been very sick and in and out of the hospital and doctors for weeks, and watching this vlog tonight calmed me so much. Thank you for your videos 🌸❤️🕊 I thank God that I happened to stumble upon them one day

[@MrsMidwest]

I hope and pray that you heal very soon my dear! God bless you 🥺🥰💖

[@MotherBear811]

These videos are full of such joy and hope! Thank you for encouraging all of us as we make our own journeys in homemaking/wifehood/motherhood :)

[@juliaricciardi8482]

I love how real and raw your recent videos have been. It shows that humans have struggles and we all go through tough times. It shows our humanity. Thank you for your words of encouragement, your stories and your strength!!! God bless you and this channel!!! 💕🙏😁

[@MrsMidwest]

Yes! It feels so good to finally be more open in a positive way on here. 😭🥰

[@QuiteQuietASMR]

Basically an hour long vlog??? THANK YOU girl!!

[@Guruthosa]

It's so helpful watching vlogs like this, as a new mom I'm feeling isolated and like everything I do is wrong in one way or the other. Last saturday I went out and literally had my earlobes pierced after holding off on it for almost 30 years. Also I ordered a ton of leaflets on different Master's programs that I won't be able to pursue for years now. Talk about an identity crisis lol. You are an inspiration to me right now, not in a grandiose way but in a quiet and wholesome way. Thank you.

[@JenniferoftheSea]

Yay for getting your ears pierced! So fun! I can relate to the identity crisis. I just wanted to share a few things as a mom of four who still sometimes struggles. You are still you. Being a mother is now part of you and probably outside of "wife' if you are one, the most defining thing about you. You have given life, you've reproduced another human and that human will rely on you and be defined and shaped by your love and instruction in ways that you can't imagine. You aren't doing anything wrong. If your baby is fed and changed, focus on just loving them, enjoying them, and creating a schedule that works for you both. Focus on getting to know the new person in your life and tell yourself how amazing you are and what an amazing gift of motherhood you have been given. Having said that, you still have all the same talents and interests (though interests may change a lot) you had before. You're still you. It's just an adjustment period figuring out how your goals and interests fit into your new responsibities and your own personal capacity. I planned on going to law school. I decided not to. I have another friend with four daughters that she homeschools and still practices law part time. I don't have that capacity, but the change in circumstances opened up a whole new world and I have a home based career that I find incredibly satisfying. I would just say remove all expectations and don't compare yourself to others. Enjoy each day, even though they sometimes are excruciatingly hard and know that you will figure things out. You are doing something that matters. Children matter, the home and how children are viewed, cared for, the atmosphere that's created, their relationship with Mom and Dad is what upholds society, it's what produces healthy (or unhealthy) people and affects future generations. What you are doing is incredible, Mama. 💞

[@Guruthosa]

@@JenniferoftheSea Thank you so much for your kind words :)

[@Elsabita]

Please please please share about your breastfeeding/bottle feeding journey! My baby is seven and a half months now, and breastfeeding has been incredibly difficult since day one. It is incredibly painful and I would like desperately to switch, but haven't because of the shame and pressure. You even sharing the bit you have has really helped so much. I would love to hear more, and am so thankful for all the sharing you do. Thank you, Caitlin, you are such a wonderful mother and person!!💖💖

[@hopefull61256]

As a mom of 4, if you are finding still finding it difficult to feed baby at 7 months there is no shame to transition to formula 🙂

[@MrsMidwest]

You sound like such a warrior!! You’ve made it so far. I will probably have to share more on this topic for sure! But I hope you can know that the bond with your baby will still be strong no matter how you feed them. You’d never know Bodie wasn’t breastfed for very long: he’s such a mummy’s boy!! We are inseparable. Remember to put yourself and your needs high on your priority list, and always higher than the opinions of others. Xo

[@mariecurie2659]

I just wanted to say thank you for making this vlog and showing the wonderful side of motherhood. I’m currently 8 weeks along and I’ve gotten nervous after seeing all the “negative press” around motherhood and how supposedly awful it is, which made me feel like maybe I had made a mistake. But then I watched this video and was able to relax and smile and realize that the negativity gets the most air time, but that is a very pessimistic view of motherhood and isn’t representative. I feel so lucky and you’ve restored my spirits regarding motherhood, so thank you.

[@silverlimosine]

You’re very brave to confess these things to your community and I appreciate it so much! I didn’t have instrumental interventions in my vaginal delivery, But I did have a severe third-degree tear and multiple internal tears when giving birth. I felt less like a woman for a long time because of it, and when I got postpartum depression that also hindered my ability to breast-feed past three months. So I also went on to bottle feed my daughter and I felt guilty for feeling better because of that. How screwed up is that? This is why I’m so grateful for mothers like you who come online and share your experience honestly so the rest of us can feel seen

[@Maaaaaam]

Im watching this while my 11 month old daughter and I eat breakfast. Her new favorite thing is waving so she was waving at you and Bodie throughout 😂 I’m glad you opened up about breastfeeding. There’s so much I judged other moms for before I became a mom and now I do a lot of those things. I think it’s important to hear the variety of experiences all moms have. It’s a miracle I was able to breastfeed after my daughter was in the nicu. I can’t imagine how painful it must be to have that experience taken from you. I still haven’t watched your birth story because mine was really traumatic and idk if I’m ready lol but your content is some of my favorite and I’m so grateful you’re making videos ❤️

[@ShakiraLakdawalla]

I just wanted to say that I feel as you do and had the same feelings and experiences of not being able to breast feed and I tortured myself and obsessed and drove myself to the ground trying to breastfeed both my children but finally came to terms on feeding them formula and they are beautiful healthy children. It's the first time I am watching your channel but I think you are awesome and a super strong and loving mom and your children seem so happy in this VLOG.

[@wiktoriaderen8992]

100% with you Caitlin on bf thing. I couldn't breastfeed too, due to many issues. And there is no shame in that at all!!! I know how hard it is to work that out in head. I'm so glad when i hear stories like mine, i don't feel alone( i also share on birth video and resonate with that) And it's so important for us, moms , to share about that proudly and support each other in our own journeys, that work for our families. Cause that what is the most important- take good care of our families and babies and ourselfes:) so... my heart goes to you, I'm giving you big hug and i love that you found what works for you and your babies. So proud of you, Mama;)

[@MrsMidwest]

Absolutely. It’s so good to promote natural options for mothers as there is so much good in breastfeeding and natural birth, but it’s also important to acknowledge and not shame those of us who cannot walk those paths. Happy you are here my friend. Thank you for watching!!

[@rachelllewellyn7524]

I’m still a few years away from having kids and currently working in corporate America in a position that I really enjoy and I’m really proud of, but I often dream of being a stay at home mom. I don’t know if I ever will be, because I do enjoy my career so much, but I always find so much comfort in these vlogs; they’re always so peaceful and you always make it look so graceful and fulfilling to be a stay at home mom.

[@peanutbrittle99]

I saw this video and immediately knew I needed this wholesome energy today! Thank you for the effort you put in Caitlyn! May the lord bless your souls❤️

[@MrsMidwest]

Awh I’m really really happy that this is wholesome and uplifting for you!! Xo

[@Nanaheals]

Don’t be ashamed. You are perfectly imperfect. Your family seems healthy and thriving. I love the way you show up and your boys will love the heck out of you! Continue persevering

[@jennych]

I laughed out loud when Bodie spotted the camera mid morning bottle LOL! These are so cozy and fun!

[@MrsMidwest]

Hahah! Right!? I had a ton more footage and it’s so hard to know what to cut out!

[@rebekahe9692]

I LOVE your collage wall. I’ve been brainstorming different decor above our fireplace, and I might do a similar collage up there!

[@Falcon65781]

Thank you for sharing this! I appreciate how authentic and vulnerable you are in your videos💗

[@KumquatTheHedghog]

Yay!!! You’re back. I missed your vlogs so much!!!!! 🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺

[@meydiaengka]

This is the kind of content you want to watch for your well being 😁

[@viviancardenas4565]

I’m glad you opened up about your breastfeeding experience! My mom has had the same experience, she just didn’t have enough milk for me and even her own doctor would judge my parents for feeding me through a bottle since according to him “it’s not sanitary” you’re not alone!

[@justynafletcher864]

The BEST advice I can give new moms is to not feel that pressure to get back to normal right away. I totally went thru that phase with my first and I just remember having so much self inflicted pressure to be normal again. It took you 9 months for your body to get to where it is, then you pushed a watermelon out and now are trying to figure out feeding a newborn with very little sleep. NO ONE expects you to just ‘bounce back’. Take it easy mama. You and your health deserve it.

[@pamdawson8598]

Caitlin dear your expectations and dreams for yourself put a great pressure and strain on yourself. Our hearts go out to you. Dreams and plans are great but if they become too fixed they set us up for disappointment and feelings of guilt. As you said none of us are perfect. The Lord accepts us and helps us to accept ourselves. We may listen to other's opinions but we are not meant to live up to other's expectation and there approval. It's great to see you working through all this stuff..it's really hard. You and Grant are doing such a great job parenting. Thankyou. God bless you and your men.

[@nickisue8066]

Your vlogs are such a source of joy and comfort 💗

[@annashuwho]

SO GLAD you’re back with more regular content Caitlin!! I just gave birth in March and am learning how to homemake with a newborn. It was your channel that originally inspire me and taught me so much about how beautiful and joyful homemaking and traditional living can be 🤍

[@MrsMidwest]

take all the time you need to adjust!! It was so hard going from 0-1 and learning how to live as a parent and a mother. You’ve got this!!

[@ulat625]

I literally just bought the same hair towel yesterday at Marshalls and I was getting ready as I was watching this so I was literally doing my makeup with it on my head as I was watching you do the same thing. Now we are blow drying our hair together lol!!

[@MrsMidwest]

Hahaha I looooove this 😭🤣

[@weloveTM123]

So happy to see your vlogs! I love it. Very comfy and adorable.

[@lachattenoir]

Hi Caitlyn, I don’t know if you’ll see this but I just wanted to thank you for being generous with telling your story and give you some encouragement in return! I don’t have children yet, but I’m surrounded by nephews and nieces and I’m amazed at how healing that has been for me. Watching them grow and learn and struggle has really driven home the fact that all my perceived weaknesses or shortcomings are just another way of being in the world. Those ways are beautiful when I see them in children and I so hope that they learn to embrace and work around them rather than fill their minds with ‘shoulds’. Even in health matters, imagine if your grand daughter one day cannot breastfeed. You’d look at her with such love and pride as she bottle feeds her child. I hope that through your children you’ll continue to learn to be kinder to yourself because you’re amazing ❤️

[@missautumn764]

Awww yes THE couch! Saw it on Instagram already, it does look lovely. Happy to see you are thriving. Really appreciated the "real talk" about your struggles, those kinda things are never easy to share, I applaud your bravery for sharing it online! Sometimes we watch / follow influencers and feel like they have it perfect whilst us "normal folk" seem to struggle so much more. You are keeping it real, and that's so important! Thank you for brightening my day!

[@rosem7042]

Ahhhhhhahaha, I love your "mom" voice when you talk to Troy and Bodie. It's good to see you doing well and being happy.

[@authorannettepalmer]

I love you and all your content. I would love to hear about anything you feel like sharing. Nothing you do or can’t do makes you less of a woman. You are beautiful and special and perfect, exactly the way God made you. Sending you and your sweet family so much love 💕

[@azerlynno]

Thank you for sharing your birth stories and feeding journey. I had a traumatic emergency C-section and was only able to breastfeed for a month. My heart was broken that I didn’t have the natural birth I worked so hard for and that breastfeeding didn’t last long for me. It is humbling and makes your grow so much. Youre brave for sharing❤

[@autumnwebber5716]

I love your vulnerability in this vlog. I personally do not like opening up to many people and it can be a very hard thing to do sometimes. Letting out your emotions and talking can be so therapeutic.

[@Sara-oi8sj]

Caitlyn, thank you. Thank you for this channel and being YOU and showing that to the world. As a homemaker and mom to a toddler, I find your channel to be so inspiring and heart warming. When I need motivation to do some homemaking or when I’m feeling down, I often find myself watching your videos. See, I didn’t grow up with a stay-at-home mom, rather a single mother that was constantly stressed out and just trying to make ends meet. I never had an example of what homemaking or being a stay at home mom truly meant or looked like, and that’s why channels like yours mean so much to me! You say you’re not perfect and that you’re scared to be vulnerable, but just know that that’s okay. In fact, sharing with us your struggles makes you so relatable and I’m sure many of us SAHMs feel so much less alone knowing others are going through similar struggles. You are so a blessing to this world, and you should be so proud of your beautiful family. You are doing fantastic job! You’re husband and children are so incredibly lucky to have you ❤️

[@rutheli]

It was nice to see and hear Grant engaging more in the vlog! (The post cupcake handshake was SO funny 😆 )You were really brave to share about your breastfeeding struggle. I’m sure it’s been so painful to go through!

[@MrsMidwest]

He is so so so camera shy, but I love getting our moments together!

[@Creneev619]

Aww I want to give you the biggest hug! It’s so brave to open up. You have become a new person postpartum this time. You are strong and confident and you’re positively glowing. All those emotional changes are visible on the outside. I’m so proud of you ❤️ I’m so proud of you for sharing about breastfeeding. Not for anyone but yourself. No one cares how you feed your baby but I know you do. The only judgement comes from ourselves and that it can be so tough! Sharing means you’re healing and that’s beautiful.

[@christytreacy7608]

Thank you so much for opening up about your birth experiences and your breastfeeding journey! My little lady and I are 5 months post-partum and had a very similar birthing story to you and Bodie and challenges in the early days of breastfeeding. Until I watched your recent videos, I didn’t realise how heavily that birth trauma had been weighing on me and how “less-than” I felt in comparison to the seemingly beautiful experiences of other women. Listening to your story was a cathartic moment for me - thank you for sharing, Cait! You are an incredibly inspiring mama and woman and I really admire how you are able to be both strong and soft at the same time! Congratulations on your two beautiful boys and your wonderful family. Sending love from the UK 💕

[@MrsMidwest]

I’m so glad you’ve been able to acknowledge your own experience. I hope you can feel joy and pride in how you have overcome adversity!! God is so good!! Bless you 💖🥰💖

[@jordanfox8027]

I love how much fun you and your husband seem to have together! We love a Grant cameo!

[@MrsMidwest]

He is definitely the fun one!!!

[@jeuen6933]

Thank you for sharing the hard parts. It's hard not to feel like less of a woman and it's easy to imagine that other people are perfect so I appreciate your vulnerability.

[@samaramcmanimon-myers7719]

Caitlin, thank you for being so transparent and open about your experience with struggling to breastfeed. I have Raynaud’s phenomenon myself and had no idea it could cause problems with breastfeeding!! It makes me incredibly grateful that I have been able to breastfeed my son🙏. Thank you for encouraging all moms out there 🥰

[@chelseapylant6812]

I love how open you are being with this chapter in your life of motherhood, a lot of us can relate and take knowledge from it! Your birth stories helped me a lot, as mine was similar, and now your journey with breastfeeding also makes me feel seen! I wish I could be a stay at home mom/homemaker but I can’t right now, and might not ever be able to. I exclusively breastfed my daughter until I was 9 weeks PP and went back to work, then my supply dropped and I was never able to get it back fully. At my daughters 4 month check up they said she wasn’t gaining weight like she should and I felt like a failure because I had to supplement with formula. My supply only got worse and I still try to pump, however she’s almost exclusively on formula and I just add breast milk to her food or maybe give her an once in her bottle every now and then. It’s so hard on me emotionally that I can’t provide the amount she needs to get as much nourishment as possible, and I know there’s other women that feel the same way, but it does feel like you’re alone when you’re going through it.

[@MrsMidwest]

It is such a deep feeling of inadequacy that I truly think only other women who’ve been there can understand… not even husbands! Thank you for sharing your story. Please know that it does get better with time, especially as your relationship with your baby changes from being centered around feeding to being centered around communicating love and fun 🥰

[@kristim8796]

Omg I'm thrilled for you about the couch! I read your blog posts about it and it's so special to see the moment the dream came true haha, hubby did great ☺️😍

[@reaganeure955]

I loved this video so much, and I can’t stress enough how much of a wonderful mother you are! your sweet morning feeding time with Bodie made me cry lol and then hearing you talk about your shame about not being able to breastfeed was just so moving-I can’t imagine how you could be more bonded to your babies honestly lol! my mom couldn’t breastfeed us for longer than a couple months because she had inverted nipples and it was super painful and she is my very best friend and I love her forever. and I honestly don’t think it’s the breastfeeding that’s feminine, it’s the closeness and the nurturing and the softness and the mother’s touch that is feminine and you more than embody that.

[@lillianbrewer6739]

I love that we got to see the couch! I read your blog about the couch and I'm so glad I got to see your reaction!!

[@MrsMidwest]

I was shocked. LOL! and thank you for reading the blog!!

[@Sneeze8588]

I think the conversation you had about 'natural birth' and 'natural motherhood' is so important. I think the same thing also applies to fertility treatment. Many people put such a halo on 'natural' conception, but not every body can do it. Needing assistance doesn't make you a bad woman or a bad person ❤️

[@angelcake6869]

my boyfriend and i love watching your videos together bc we want a traditional marriage and family like the one you and your husband have 💖 and we're getting there very soon! :) thank you so much for your videos, Caitlin. you inspire so many of us

[@MrsMidwest]

This is the sweetest. God bless you both!

[@ecclesiaxxi6210]

@@MsBella-qb9gc me too, slavic brunette ;) Love the faith, devout Catholic, but also see all Biblical/traditional Christians as brothers and sisters in Christ. Blessings :)

[@angelcake6869]

@@MsBella-qb9gc blessings to you as well! 💖

[@angelcake6869]

@@ecclesiaxxi6210 100% agreed 💖 i love all of my brothers and sisters in Christ.

[@angelcake6869]

@@MrsMidwest thank you, Caitlin! may God continue to bless you and your family 💖