This week, Emily and Darcy are diving into a big transition — going back to work after maternity leave. We’re getting real about what our maternity leave actually looked like (length, pay, and all the logistics), whether we ever thought about staying home, and what that emotional first day back was really like.

We’re sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between. Plus, we’ve got some honest tips for that first day back to work - because whether you’re feeling excited, anxious, or totally overwhelmed, you are so not alone.

If you’re a new mom gearing up to return to work, or just want to hear two moms talk through the chaos of working mom life, this one’s for you.

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In this episode of the Little Ones and Messy Buns podcast, Alyx and Shelby chat with Leanne and Scott Cruce, the founders of Love Letters, a local Kansas City brand. They discuss the journey of starting Love Letters, the challenges of running a business while being parents, and the importance of community and support. The conversation highlights the brand's unique approach to fashion, their mobile boutique truck, and the balance between work and family life.

Please note the audio issue starting around the 28:50 minute mark has been corrected as of October 28, 2025. Thank you for your patience!

Shop Love Letters here: https://www.shoploveletters.com/

If you want to hear Shelby and Emily reminisce on the college days check out this episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reliving-our-glory-days/id1758654118?i=1000730393307

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In this heartfelt episode, Emily and Alyx sit down with Joee—one of the beloved daughters of TikTok’s @Okiemomof5—for a candid conversation about growing up in the spotlight of social media. Joee opens up about:

• What it’s really like growing up online
• The challenges that come with social media and how she navigates them
• Her dreams and goals for the future
• The important role her parents play in supporting and guiding her

Whether you're a mama raising a teenage daughter or simply a fan of Joee’s vibrant, spunky personality, this episode is filled with insight, inspiration, and authenticity.

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Welcome to the emotional rollercoaster that is life with a threenager! In this episode, Alyx and Sarah dive into the chaos, comedy, and cuddles that come with raising a 3-year-old who thinks they're 13. From sudden meltdowns over the wrong color cup to surprisingly deep conversations about life, we explore the daily drama and unexpected joys of this wild stage. Grab your coffee (and maybe your noise-canceling headphones) — it's threenager time.

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Do you ever wish you could go back to your "glory days" in college? Join Emily and Shelby this week as they do just that! This listener-requested episode covers all of our favorite college memories: joining a sorority, enjoying meals at the campus cafeteria, recruitment, education classes and more. Grab a drink and enjoy reliving a simpler time!

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Ever wonder what it would be like to raise kids in a different country? Today we are chatting with one of our sorority sisters, Leslie, who moved to Australia to study abroad and never looked back! Tune in to hear Leslie's home birth story and differences between maternity leave and postnatal support. (Can you imagine what it would be like to have a mom-support group handed to you post birth?!) We also chat about the differences in childcare between Australia and the US, cultural differences raising kids in different countries, tips for surviving that long flight back home and how to foster a relationship between your kids and family members who don't live close. This is such an interesting conversation - you won't want to miss it!

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This week’s episode is all about moving with kids. Alyx, Darcy and Emily open up about the unique challenges that come with relocating a family—whether it’s across town or to a new state. They share personal stories, helpful tips they’ve learned along the way, and thoughtful ways you can support friends or loved ones going through this big transition. If you're in the middle of a move (or know someone who is), this episode is full of insight and encouragement.

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Fall is here! Join Sarah and Shelby this week as they take you on a tour of fall activities throughout Kansas City. From pumpkin patches to fall festivals, you are sure to find some great recommendations for your family. Happy Fall!

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