Mommy Monday: Chelsea Bell

Happy Fourth of July, America!

Monday's Mom! We caught up with Seattle mom Chelsea Bell.

An avid writer and foodie/crafting genius, 29-year-old Chelsea can be found in the urban environment of Capitol Hill where she is a full-time mom to her single dashing daughter Bea. The duo frequent local cafes and parks while Dad Landon's at work as an Elementary School Teacher.

1. How long have you been a mom?

20 months

2. What is your baby's name?

Beatrice Shaolin Louise

3. What inspired this name?

The first name is my mother's, the second is an homage to the Wu-Tang Clan, the third is just cute.

4. What is the cutest thing your kid has done this week?

The cutest thing was befriending a little girl at the park and walking around holding hands with her. My favorite was when she pooped in the tub for the first time. I heard her dad yell, Noooooooooooo!!! all the way across the apartment and knew immediately what had happened.

5. What is the product that you needed when your baby was six months old and under that surprised you the most?

My Kindle. Those first few months are mostly just nursing and holding a sleeping baby, and it's really hard to do either of those while holding a book open. E-readers only require one hand.

6. How many bibs does your baby use in a day?

Usually zero. Not because she is remotely tidy, I just always forget to put them on her before the damage begins.

7. What is the baby product that you cannot live without?

Teething necklace. We lost her first one during a teething period and the week wait for a new one was excruciating for all of us.

8. What is your baby's favorite sleepy time companion?

Me.

9. How did you decorate the baby's room? Did you have a theme? Second-hand gear? Is it just like the other spaces in your home?

She's still in our room so instead of having a space decorated for her, our entire space is decorated with her stuff.

10. What baby gift that you have received did you treasure the most?

My mom made her a beautiful quilt (her first try at quilting!).

11. What is the most practical baby gift you have received?

Desitin and baby powder.

12. If you were recommending something for a friend to bring to someone's baby shower what would it be?

Teething necklace, Medela lanolin, Dr. Seuss board books. And a Kindle, if it's, like, your sister or BFF.

Thanks Bea and Chelsea! Come back next Monday to see who the Mommy is and what she has to say about the most essential products in motherhood.