Our favorite thing about Solly Baby is you—the community of moms and dads doing the beautiful, messy, important work of raising little ones. In our weekly Full Heart Series, we're sharing stories from our Solly Community that resonate, inspire, and remind us we're never alone. Join us as we savor these everyday moments that leave our hearts full.
Let's start with a quick introduction. Tell us the facts.
Name: Sarah Quinlan
Children: Danny (2 months)
Location: Orlando, FL
Occupation: Entrepreneur/Content Creator
How did you get connected with Solly?
As I was preparing to bring a precious life into this world, I researched the best of the best quality and styles for my baby girl. I came across Solly Baby through social media and my friends who RAVED about the soft quality and functionality of the products. Being a working mom and running my own business on the go, I wanted to wear Danny in something that was comfortable for her and for me. Solly Baby was the only brand that I trusted to hold my little girl up when I didn’t have the hands to!
What’s a time in the last week when your heart has felt full?
My heart felt so full when my baby girl giggled at us for the first time. It felt like she really knew me and made me feel like all the sleepless nights and long days led to that moment of pure joy.
Favorite thing about your Solly Wrap?
When Danny was first born, I found it hard to feel like a normal human again. She was so tiny and I was still trying to find our groove. My Solly Wrap helped me so much with that—it was life-changing. I was able to go outside and wear her in my wrap along with getting things done around the house. I felt comfortable and so did she! It was just the best.
What’s your favorite time of day with your little one?
My favorite time of the day with Danny would have to be her bedtime routine! Danny loves the bath and I find it’s such a tender time to love on her and make her feel safe. We wrap her in a warm towel, put lotion and a soft onesie on her, then read her a story while giving her a bottle. I love that my husband can also partake in her bedtime routine, and it really feels like a fun, sweet time of the day for our family!
What do you consider a mother’s most important role?
Love. There are lots of mothers out there but it takes a devoted, loving person to truly be a mom and to simply just love on her little one. My mom used to always say, “Your kid can’t tell the difference between a gold stick and a wooden one.” That stuck with me.
How do you define your role as a mother?
My role as Danny’s mom is to raise her up to be kind, patient, slow to anger and to know that Jesus always loves her. I want to take her outside more to explore nature and learn about the world from a firsthand perspective. My role is to simply guide her in the best way I can and to love on her with all that I have.
What about motherhood has surprised you?
How many diapers I’d run through in a single day! I was not expecting to change that many diapers in my life but I’m happy that Danny has a great digestive system! Also, how hard being a mom is. But it’s so rewarding.
When do you feel at your best as a mom?
When I see Danny smile or laugh at me. It makes me feel loved back and feels like her little way of saying “Thanks, Mama” each day.
Walk us through a typical day in your life.
We have been following the “Moms On Call” schedule for weeks 8-16.
Danny usually wakes up at 5 am for a feed and then again at 7 am. We feed her again at 10 am and then every three hours for the rest of the day. I breastfeed, but mostly pump and give her bottles because that’s what she prefers.
When she’s not feeding, she naps around four times a day and then has 30-minute play times in between. We start her bedtime routine at 6:30 pm, last feed at 7 pm and in bed by 7:30 pm! Although this is ideally what our day would look like, we understand flexibility is key.
What would you do with an extra hour in the day (other than sleep)?
I would go outside for a long walk and just have time to myself!
Where was the first place you took your baby (other than the pediatrician’s office)?
The first place we took our baby was her grandparents house and then around the neighborhood to see all the pretty Christmas lights!
What’s something you loved to do before baby that you still do or would like to start up again (eventually)?
Working out! I feel so good when I work out, even if it’s just for 20 minutes. I look forward to having a little more time to work out as she gets older.
Favorite piece of advice you’ve received about motherhood?
Sleep when the baby sleeps and fed is best. I always laughed when I heard people say those things, but now as a mom I realize how TRUE they are. I love sleeping when Danny sleeps so I can feel whole again. With feeding, I’ve had to pump exclusively because she had a shallow latch. I felt so guilty at first, but then I realized that she is fed, happy, and healthy, and that’s all that matters.
Words of wisdom would you share with other moms?
You’re doing great mama. You don’t hear it enough but you’re doing great. Babies don’t know money, they know love. Keep doing your best each day by showing up for your little one. It’s the best job in the whole world.
What are three things in your motherhood starter pack?
Burp cloths, the Doona Stroller, and my Solly Baby Wrap
What Solly pieces(s) do you have? What's on your wishlist?
I have the Driftwood Stripe Wrap and the Cottage Rose Sleeper that Danny loves to wear. On my wishlist: the Flax and Petal Wrap and the Spelt Sleeper.
How about a round of rapid-fire favorites…
Indulgence: Frozen chocolate-covered strawberries
Podcast: Anything true crime
Children's Book: The Chronicles of Narnia
Mama-time activity: Spending time in the shower or doing a Bible study
Person to follow on social: @kristinjohns
After bedtime snack: Cereal or a piece of chocolate
