The Marinaro Family
Middletown, NJ
What is your favorite family tradition?
Vacations! We go on at least one vacation every year. To us, a week of uninterrupted time together is so valuable. Our daughter is 11 weeks old and we are taking her to Disney World in May and Aruba in October.
People think we are crazy because, "she is not going to remember anything" but she will have pictures to look back on and we will be creating amazing family memories that we can build on every year.
Tell us about your favorite family story.
Our stories are just beginning. Since our daughter is still so young, I don't have just one thing that I could say is my favorite. Every experience is a new memory and I cherish them all.
One thing that does stand out in my mind is the day we brought Juliette home and got to introduce her to our first baby- our dog Leia! We were so excited for them to meet and Leia was just as excited, which melted our hearts.
What is your family's motto?
Cherish every moment.
Is there anything else you'd like us to know about your family story?
My husband and I are high school sweethearts who are so excited to be on this new parenthood journey!
Share Your Parenting Wisdom
What's your number one tip for new parents?
Don't stress the small things. A clean house means nothing. No one is going to judge you if there are dishes in your sink. If someone offers help- take it. You may not need help with the baby but help with household chores will take one more thing off your plate.
What has been the most surprising thing you've learned as a parent?
How fast time goes when you are watching your child grow. I constantly stop and think, "how is it possible 11 weeks have gone by already." People always told me "they grow so fast" and until you experience it for yourself you will never grasp it.
Tell us about your funniest parenting story (we all have them!)
My daughter was only a few weeks old. I was washing dishes and my husband and sisters were upstairs changing Juliette in her room. All of a sudden I hear screaming from the three of them.
I run upstairs and my daughter had projectile pooped while they were switching out her diaper. It was everywhere. It even got on the wall and ran all the way down to the carpet. If I didn't see it for myself I wouldn't have believed them.
You can find the Marinaro Family on Instagram at @angelicamarinaro.