Meet Us

Why do it alone when we can HOLD HANDS!
This is our mantra, which is why it’s the very first on our list of core values. These are the guiding principles by which we run our business. It’s how we decide what to write about, which experts and guests to feature and who to partner with. If you can remember one thing about us, remember our values. It’s who we are:

It’s really isn’t about us, it’s about US… us women, us moms. Yes, that’s YOU too. You’ll find many voices here but a shared vision.

How do we LIVE these values?

• We hold hands with each other as we share practical and inspired tips.

• We hold hands with other organizations that support moms, children and families.

• We ask you to hold hands with us and support our work.

• We provide a place for many moms to sing their Truth and we give you a place to sing your Truth.

• We’re always looking for ways to hug each moment, to remind each other to listen to the Little Voice,

and to sew Peace in the world.

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Our Birth Story
After a long, arduous thirty-six hours of labor with no medication, the collaborative partnership of Zen Mommy and Practical Mommy was born. And oh yeah, Lila was born too! Suzanne and Ria actually met in the waiting room while their mutual friend, Emma was in labor. That’s our birth story!

While Emma was laboring, we were having a slumber party in the waiting room complete with pizza, yoga, tarot cards and The Devil Wears Prada on DVD. Apparently, we’re really good at pajama parties! In all seriousness, we came together to support a dear friend and we spent much of it in prayer and sending her good energy.

This is what My Mommy Manual is all about… sharing each other in friendship, through the joys and labors of life as women; connecting in laughter and play; leaning on each other when we are tired; encouraging, empowering, and energizing each other when we have to “push.”

• WE think being a mom is life’s best gift and most challenging lesson.
• WE search for ways to balance our energies between our families, our work, our friends, and ourselves.
• WE want to feel the connection that we are, through supporting relationships with other women.

Come join us!
As mommies ourselves, we want to remind you that being a mom can be joyful, fun, magical and… on some days, even easy! It helps when you feel connected, like you are not alone. It helps when you can tap into collective Mommy Wisdom.  My Mommy Manual was born out of our passion to connect mommies, both new and experienced. We want to share the precious bits of advice that we’ve collected from our professional training, our friends, our own moms, and our own experiences. We hope that the How-to’s (both big and small) help you celebrate being a MOMMY and realize that you innately have that Mommy Wisdom within you.

So when YOU have an idea, share it by jotting us a note! My Mommy Manual is a collaborative project. Your guidance may be just the thing another mom needs today. So if you are interested in writing an article, send a message. If you have something to add to a particular tip, please leave a comment!

What MOMMIES are saying…

“I wish My Mommy Manual existed 8 years ago when I was desperately trying to figure out new mommyhood! It’s exactly the type of resource I needed. Even though I’m an “experienced” mommy now, your site still offers great advice. I especially enjoy it because I can relate to both Practical Mommy and Zen Mommy.” (Edie)

“You have such awesome perspective! I know these things but don’t always remember. It’s good to see it written down! thanks Zen Mommy and My Mommy Manual!!!” (Donna)

“This blog is a wealth of information, insight and reflection.  It enables me to pause and think about myself as a Mother and gain a deeper understanding of who I am and who I want to be for my children and husband.  I have found myself remembering past blog posts and trying to put the principles into practice.  Thanks for opening my eyes and heart to new, fresh perspectives.” (Jennifer)

My Mommy Manual is such a helpful site for me, a stay-at-home mom of two. Both the tips and inspirational posts are much needed in the crazy unbalanced life that we can sometimes lead.  It’s like having a friend right there in your house all the time without having to call someone! (Carol)

“This is great information! Clear and concise – you managed to include a ton of info but it’s not overwhelming. Thanks for sending! I’m taking notes.” (Kathy)