Courtney McKelvey is a registered landscape architect and an Associate with Dekker/Perich/Sabatini. She has ten years of experience in landscape, site design and construction administration. She lives in Albuquerque, NM with her two kids and her husband. She gives some great advice, thanks Courtney!
After having kids, what product can you not live without?
Blackout curtains!
What was the best kid friendly vacation or day trip you’ve been on recently?
We went camping in northern New Mexico in September. We found a great campsite where the girls could safely explore on their own, and there was a small lake a short walk away where we caught some fish! Weather was cool at night, and not too hot during the day – We played checkers and practiced throwing the Frisbee, collected firewood and went on mushroom hunts. We can’t wait to do it again!
What tools do you use to track your child’s milestones? (ex. baby book, notebook, spreadsheet, etc.)
Unfortunately, their milestones pretty much go untracked. I post photos periodically on Facebook, which I have realized is a good way to record special moments.
What are your kids’ favorite books right now?
Norah likes early reader books, and is learning to appreciate nice or interesting illustrations. – Shel Silverstein
Tessa likes books with sing-songy rhymes or silly noises. – Skippy John Jones
What is the grossest thing you’ve ever had to clean up?
Large quantities of regurgitated breast milk. Both my kids were spitter-uppers. We called it Yarfing.
What’s a really useful product that you don’t see on a lot of registries?
We did not have a lot of extra space around our kitchen table, so we liked the Fisher Price high chair that straps on to a regular chair. It saved space, was easy to wipe-off (no padding), and was convenient to pack up and bring with us when we travelled. Also, the tray is small, so it fits easily in the dishwasher.
Do you love your stroller and/or baby carrier, and would you recommend it?
I loved the Snap n’ Go stroller that carries the infant in their seat – It was fairly low-profile and lightweight, and had a functional basket below. Now, if they would just make one with wheels like a BOB, they would be onto something!
What is your kids favorite toy right now?
Tessa loves her baby doll, and Norah likes her first big LEGO set.
What is something about having kids that you didn’t expect you would love?Bathtime – It’s the main time of each day that I get to spend one-on-one with each girl. It’s their chance to tell me about their day, and they get my undivided attention.
What advice would you give to first time moms?
Trust yourself, and do what feels right for you.
