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: Vanessa Alvarez
Children: Axel (7), Lexa (6), and Arthur (2 months)
Location: Upland, CA
When and how did you get connected with Solly?
I first heard about Solly Baby almost 7 years ago on Instagram! I wore our daughter using only the wrap. It allowed me to stay close to her while still having free hands to play with our then 18-month-old.
What’s a time in the last week when your heart has felt full?
When we got to bring our baby Arthur home after a 13-day hospital stay due to RSV. It was the most gut-wrenching experience watching our baby be intubated, sedated, and unable to hold him.
What is your favorite thing about your Solly Wrap?
How close I can keep my baby to me without interrupting whatever is going on. Arthur loves to be held and never be put down—the Solly Wrap makes it easy!
How do you define your role as a mother?
To be my kids’ biggest cheerleader and guide them through life.
What's something about motherhood that has surprised you?
The amount of energy I have! Getting less than 9 hours of sleep was horrible in my younger days and now I feel energized with a lot less than that.
When do you feel at your best as a mom?
When I listen to my kid's unspoken words or gestures that let me know they really need me in that moment. - Vanessa
I feel best as a mom when I have had time to reset and have alone time. If I don't fill my cup then I feel like I do not give my kids the best version of myself. - Jory
What's something about motherhood that you wish people talked about more?
Not having the village everyone says is needed to raise kids, especially for same-sex families. That village is difficult to have/find, especially if you have unsupportive family members.
Walk us through a typical day in your life.
I take the old kids to school. When I get home I take over the baby duties. I change Arthur’s diaper and get him ready for the day. Then my wife leaves for the gym and him and I hang out all morning. We sing, we dance, and read a little. Then I bottle-feed him and put him down for a nap.
What would you do with an extra hour in the day (other than sleep)?
Go to the gym or shower!
Where was the first place you took your baby (other than the pediatrician’s office)?
To my sister in law’s house for a Christmas gathering. Arthur was only 3 days old!
What’s something you loved to do before baby that you still do or would like to start up again (eventually)?
Travel! With our oldest, we were so afraid to travel. The thought of it scared us. With baby #3, we are not afraid and look forward to it!
You just got back from vacation in Mexico. Any tips for traveling with a young baby?
Don't let fear stop you from traveling with your baby! Just be prepared and keep expectations low. When expectations are high, that's when we are the most disappointed. We had plenty of distractions—rattles, spinner toys, and even our phones. Our baby is a unicorn and slept through all flights and adapted well to the hot weather. He slept better than he had at home! And always plan baby-friendly activities!
Favorite piece of advice you’ve received about motherhood?
You can do hard things.
Words of wisdom would you share with other moms?
Don't beat yourself up over the moments when you weren't your best self with the kiddos. Apologize and try your best to do better the next time. They still and will always love you!
What are three things in your motherhood starter pack?
- A Solly Baby Wrap (babywearing has been our favorite with all 3 kids)
- A good pair of sweatpants/leggings
- Food Delivery Subscription
What Solly pieces(s) do you have? What's on your wishlist?
Flax and Basil wraps and sleepers. I would love more sleepers (they're seriously the softest) and the Camel Wrap!
How about a round of rapid-fire favorites…
Indulgence: Banana split
Podcast: Women and Money with Suze Orman
Children’s book: The Smeds and the Smoos
Mama-time activity: The gym or date night with my wife
After bedtime snack: More ice cream lol
