Back even before I knew for sure that I was prego I used to peruse BabyCenter for articles about “early signs.” And once I had a test in my hand that confirmed that I was in fact “with-bean,” John and I immediately logged on to find out when Baby P would be due. While there, I also signed up for emails about our baby’s weekly growth (which I used to read aloud to John every time they landed in my inbox) and joined a message board to converse with thousands of other expectant May moms.
After Clara arrived I started receiving emails about her development outside of the womb (which I continue to read aloud to John every time they roll in) and I still find myself stopping by the May Message Board to read about milestones that other babies are reaching and challenges that other moms to two-month-olds are currently facing.
So imagine my geeked out reaction when I got an email from none other than the kind folks at BabyCenter asking if John and I would be interested in blogging about baby-related home stuff (toy organization, kid-art display ideas, tot-friendly decor, etc) as a part of their Momformation team. Yeah I pretty much lost it and fist pumped my way around the room until Clara and John exploded with laughter about “silly mommy’s frenetic wiggling” while Burger cowered in fear. Picture Clara looking at me like this:
And Burger looking at me like this:
Even though that email only showed up a few short weeks ago, today our very first post is already live over on BabyCenter! And we hope that those of you who indicated an interest in a baby-based blog will head over and check it out. We know that many of our readers rely on us for non-baby-centric home improvement and decor advice over here on YHL, which is why we’ve worked hard to keep the wee-one-chatter to a once-every-few-weeks occurrence. And although many others of you have suggested/requested a baby spin-off blog in honor of Clara’s arrival, there just aren’t enough hours in the day to create and manage an entirely new blog- so our once-weekly column over on BabyCenter is an amazing solution!
Today’s post is just a nice-to-meetcha type of thing, but we already have tons of kid-related projects up our sleeves for the coming weeks. Seriously, we have a list about a mile long of fun tutorials, tips, and ideas that we can’t wait to tackle. So for those of you with a bun in the oven, a bun that’s already born, or just a love of bun-related projects (many of which can most definitely be adapted for adults, teens, tweens and even whipped up as that perfect niece or nephew present) we hope to see you over on BabyCenter every Tuesday when our latest post will go live each week.
So with our big announcement out of the way, now’s the part where we get all mushy (stupid post-pregnancy hormones) and thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support and sweet sentiments. You guys have no idea how much you motivate and inspire us every day with each kind comment, Facebook shout out, or sweet Tweet. You’re the reason we do what we do and we love you (sniffle). Now somebody get me a tissue. Sheesh.
Juliann says
I just found your blog a couple days ago and I’m already addicted to it! You guys are completely inspiring. Keep up the fantastic work. :)
Beatrice says
Perfect, Perfect Solution. But…uh… do you guys really have time to even sleep? ;-)
Brittney Leigh says
OOooo!!! This excites me!!! I visit that site often, expecting my own little… well, rutabaga according to this week :) I’m so excited to know you’re blogging over there now. Will definitely be checking it out. :D
Elle Sees says
Speaking of babies, I saw this on Cup of Joy today, and thought of y’all:
http://milasdaydreams.blogspot.com/
Clara needs to get on this, stat!
YoungHouseLove says
We love that blog! So inspiring!
xo,
s
Michele says
That’s so awesome that you will be on Baby Center! I remember reading so many articles, like you, before I was pregnant, during and after. It’s such a great website with so much good advice. I love your blog and look forward to all of your advice on Baby Center. Congratulations!!!
Sarah says
Yay!!! I LOVE BabyCenter, and got their weekly updates throughout my pregnancy, and continue to get them for my 8-month-old. (My favorite part of the pregnancy updates was definitely the “your baby is about the size of an ear of corn this week”!) I asked a while back if you’d be doing a spin-off baby blog, and I’m so excited that I can now catch you over on BabyCenter! Congrats- can’t wait to see what’s to come!
Nicole says
I’m super excited about this news! I, too, was a BabyCenter “browser” before I got pregnant and when I found out I was pregnant, the first thing I did was go to that site! It’s been so fun to receive their weekly email updates – something I still look forward to even at 38 weeks! Can’t wait to check out your “new” blog!
Oh, and I second Beatrice’s question – when do you sleep? Or is this how you fill time during those nightly feedings. ;)
YoungHouseLove says
Haha, we’re actually sleeping really well thanks to Clara’s uncanny ability to pull all-nighters (the girl can go from around 10pm to 9 am!) so all that rest keeps us working a mile a minute during the day!
xo,
s
Alison says
I love Babycenter!!!!! I still get emails for my almost 4 year old and now my almost 2 year old. I went there for every question. Thats so exciting!
Ana Brightful says
Sah-weet! Congrats Youngstahs… we have hearted BabyCenter since our now 6-month-old was the size of… a poppy seed! Looking forward to reading you over there too.
Kimie says
This is great! Congratulations you two…err…four (including Burger) on your success! I just love your blog and style of writing. Needless to say I’m a huge fan, and I’m glad you can share your talents with others and expand out to the other corners of the web. Congrats again!
lifeologia says
So exciting. Congrats.
I also used BabyCenter a lot when I first became pregnant. I loved getting their emails about the baby progress.
So great for you guys to join in the baby fun ;)
jbhat says
Very cool! I’m on Baby Center quite the little bit, so look forward to seeing you there too.
jbhat
Brittany says
Where did you find those adorable onsies with the number of weeks on it? I love them and would love one for my babies 8 week photo session!
YoungHouseLove says
Hey Brittany,
We actually just dress Clara in a white onesie and then photoshop the week onto it later (it’s cheaper and we can control the color that way). Hope it helps!
xo,
s
Mommyfriend Lori says
Congratulations, wow! I heart Baby Center and YHL! You are simply wonderful!
Linda says
I so excited for you all, congrats!
Marsha says
Congrats! Exciting news! I don’t even have kids and I know I will check it out weekly.
Jaimie says
How cool. Babycenter is a great resource.
Carmen says
Love it! I love it that you guys are on there and will be able to share all your wisdom and tricks. Quick question, what will you be doing with the different fabric swatches and until when will you do that (until Clara turns one, two?)? I would like to do something with my little man, but really don’t know what exactly, since he is 6 months old. Any suggestions? Any places where I can get some ideas?
YoungHouseLove says
Hey Carmen,
The plan is to do those weekly fabric pictures until Clara is 1, and as for what we’ll do with the fabric… we’re not sure yet. We have tons of ideas (from a modern quilt or a colorful garland to a fabric book that we can glue animal appliques inside, etc). Good thing we have a while to decide! As for your little man, you can start them now (better late than never, right?) – I’m sure you’ll love those photos when he’s much bigger!
xo,
s
Arielle says
Congratulations! I can’t think of two people better for the job!
Now, I just have to say that the 10 week picture of Clara is quite possibly one of the cutest things I have ever seen. Her expression is priceless, and it’s obvious that she is one happy baby!
Bobbi says
So happy for you!! BabyCenter has been in the middle of the baby scene for quite some time! You will most definately become a favorite soon! We all love you, so the rest of the world won’t be far behind! Congrats!
Carmen says
One more your way, any ideas on a good, reliable and tested convertible car seat?
YoungHouseLove says
Hey Carmen,
We haven’t gotten there yet so we don’t have any info for you! So sorry. We did just earn something about a totally new model of convertible car seat coming out very soon (so if you can hold off on the research and purchase for a few months there might be completely new models out with more safety features and higher weight limits. Hope it helps!
xo,
s
Melody says
You guys are awesome and your blog is the only one I read regularly! I wonder how long it will be before EVERYONE knows about the Petersiks. Congrats on the new gig!
Polina says
Congrats, guys! I have been following your blog for a couple of years now (i rarely comment but visit daily), and its so inspiring to see all your success! Sending you a big virtual hug :-)
Connie says
I am so happy for you guys! May you ALL (John, Sherry, Burger, Clara) continue to prosper in your hearts desire. Thanx 4 sharing!
fittingbackin says
This is SUCH exciting news!! I’ve always loved your blog for home decor (of course) but with my sister now pregnant and me with baby fever (true story!) i’ve enjoyed your Clara posts and tips and gear, etc. I’ll definitely follow you and your cute fam over to the new site – what a great opportunity!
AmyK. says
I would say call off the search for all-white alphabet magnets. Yeah, it would look great in the room, but really? It would be no fun at all for Clara. Stick with the basic multi-colored magnets. It would only be a small pop of color in there. JMHO.
Carmen says
Thank you so much. I am going to give it a shot.
Pam in NC says
Congratulations! I love the Baby Center website. With my daughter living in another country and my daughter-in-law living 100’s of miles away, it’s a great site to keep me up to date with what they’re experiencing while they’re growing my grandbabies. You’ll be a perfect fit over there!
Julie says
Yayyy for you guys! That is so exciting!! :)
Erin says
I’m so excited for you both on your newest adventure!
I know I’ve said it before, but Clara is the cutest, most expressive baby I’ve ever seen!
I didn’t know it was possible for a baby to be BORN with their parents personalities…I thought that was taught. But she was definitely born with both of your personalities (or at least what I can tell from reading your blog.) :)
Stacey says
Congrats on your new gig! I am looking forward to this. I’m due in December with our first and I read those emails every monday to DH. He has even come home from work asking for them :)
I have to admit though I’m going though some bad nausea this week (totally out of the blue) and the shrimp picture is really doing a number on me. Keep posting so that picture can hurry to page 2!!
Lisa says
This is fantastic! I am also following Babycenter for the the impending arrival of our little one in November. You really start looking forward to those weekly emails! So happy to hear that you guys will be collaborating with them. That’s one more blog to add to my Google Reader!
Cindy says
Congratulations! You made the decision and the preparations for John to be working at home, and look what exciting things are coming your way! xo
Abby says
Yay! Ah! Such perfect timing ;)
Cary says
Have really enjoyed your ideas at YoungHouseLove. But, also excited that you all will blog weekly about being new parents.
jiye lee says
Awesome news! Congrats!!
http://pearlsandgreentea.blogspot.com
Lauren E. says
Hey John and Sherry (and Clara and Burger)
I am a regular reader of your blog and have been for over a year now. Even though I am nowhere near ready to start a family. I still love hearing about Clara and know that I will have somewhere to reference back to when that time comes. Keep doing what you’re doing and Congrats on the new gig!
Lauren, Chris (and Banner the Beagle)
meghan says
Wooo Hooo! As a first time mamma expecting in January… I CAN’T WAIT to soak up every little tip you two offer.
Shannon says
Congrats on both Clara and the new gig! As an ‘entrepreneur mom’ of three, it’s awesome to see your commitment to being home for your little one. I love your blog and all the ideas and encouragement you have for diyers. Keep up the good work!
Christine says
Clara is adorable and I love the weekly photos you do! Where did you get the weekly onesies?
YoungHouseLove says
Hey Christine,
The onesies are just plain white Gerber onesies we snagged at Target and we photoshop the numbers onto them afterwards. But this company sells something similar if you’re looking to do something like it: http://www.stickybellies.com/
Hope that helps!
-John
Suzie says
Wow! Congratulations!! I am so excited to see that mile-long list come to life! I know the ideas will be great and I can’t wait to tackle a few of them for my son!!…so make them good! :P
Gia says
So excited to hear about your blog on babycenter! The reason I like your blog so much vs. other home improvement blogs is that yours has a personal touch and includes how you work all of these project into your home life. Keep up the good work!
PS- I can’t believe your 10 week old is sleeping through the night! I’m also a new mom and a little jealous of all the sleep you are getting!! :)
Carmen says
I just came across your tweet that you visited Clara’s great grandmother. How did you pull off such a drive? How much preparation went into it? Any dos or donts advice/suggestions? Thanks again and you two, well three, actually four are the best.
YoungHouseLove says
Hey Carmen,
Clara is an excellent road tripper (which is good because we’re a road-tripping family). Her first big drive was to Delaware for a week at the beach (which we took when she was just 6 weeks old). She did awesome! She loves her carseat (she’s always lulled off to sleep by the gentle movement of driving). And although we had to stop a few times to feed her & change her along the way, it was a super easy trip there and back. That was a 5 hour drive so we knew she could hack the 6 hour drive to West Virginia to visit her great grandmother a few weeks later. Again, she slept most of the time and we stopped a few times to eat and change her. Our suggestions would just be to bring a blanket in case the bambino gets cold, and to have a few comforts there as well (Clara doesn’t usually take a pacifier, but we had one on hand just in case, along with her Sleep Sheep, which she always loves). Hope it helps!
xo,
s
Carmen says
Thanks so much. I think we will give it a shot. I just wanted to say that you guys are truly amazing and we wish you and your family really all the best! Can’t wait until next Tuesday for your post on babycenter.
Erika says
Congrats and good for you guys! I LOVE the BabyCenter emails and have been receiving them since we found out our little guy was on the way (plus, I was also poking around there when we were just getting started too!). It’s a great site, with tons of very helpful info. (I cannot tell you how many times I looked up some weird symptom I was having during pregnancy or some odd thing the little guy did to find out what was going on. Luckily so many people share their experiences and it all helped to calm me down in my time of hysteria!) Now, there is yet another great reason to read through there many pages!
Can’t wait to read more!
Erika
Kate says
So, so, so excited to hear about the new blog on babycenter.com! I just read your the big announcement today (week 37 of pregos has been a busy one) but it couldn’t have come at a better time. I was just trying to figure out exactly how we’re going to balance regular check-ins with our two favorite sites once the kiddo comes. It’s ironic that the two web sites that have helped the most during the past year of a crazy pregnancy and novice home renovations and decorating are now connected. Good luck on this next step ahead!