Oct. 1, 2025

Hi Reader,

The Fall is such a breath of fresh air for me. As sweater weather tiptoes in and sidewalks turn to crunchy mosaics, I’ve been finding myself getting overly excited about letting the good morning breeze flow through my tresses as I read my books out front! Okay let's pause for a moment......

I live in hot Houston, Texas! Everything you’ve just read was only a figment of my imagination. I mean, don’t get me wrong; in the wee early mornings there is a slight dip in the temperature. Those mornings are when I find myself hitting the outdoors for longer periods of time, just so that I can get a taste of the Fall vibes as I read or write with a big cup of joe. Next thing you know.... time to wake up the kiddos and switch on Mommy Mode.

Slipping into Fall: Joint Reading, Big Curiosity

So what’s next? My oldest is off to school, my husband has already begun his workday. Looks like it's just my youngest and I. This is a standard business day in our home. Well for now, at least. Let me remind you, we are expecting a new addition to our family just over a month from now! To say that we’re all excitedly filled with anticipation is to say the very least!

For now, these days are filled with a bunch of mommy & me learning and fun. Bringing my little one outdoors to sightsee and to read in the cool outdoors has been trending heavily! Did you know that according to the AAP policy on relational health shared reading is recommended because it is looked at as a positive parenting strategy for strengthening safe, nurturing relationships needed for young children to prosper? Even though I can barely understand most of the feedback my little one shares when asked what she thought of the book we just read, her expressions say it all. Most of all, I love that this level of communication can contribute to her in a supportive way.

Weaving Outdoor Learning into Your Days

Play Leaf Investigator (no age limits)
Round up some leaves you find outdoors and sort them by color, shape, or “crunch". You or your little one can narrate the nature of the leaf you find. I think this makes it more fun! Then you compare:
- Which leaf is smoother?
- How many points on a leaf?
- You’re introducing observation and language with these types of questions. Keep communication going, as these exchanges are brain‑builders.

Looking Ahead

To hear more about exciting parenting tips, follow my social media handles displayed at the bottom of the page. Subscribe to and read my monthly newsletters. Coming to Amazon soon is my very first Published book, Margot’s Building Adventure! You and your little ones will enjoy reading it. I promise!! I also plan to take you on a sneak peek along the rest of my pregnancy journey. If you have any 3^rd trimester tips or feedback for me, I'd love to hear it all! Let’s connect!

Hugs & cozy Sweaters,

Jade Mcleod