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Maybe Baby is a newsletter focused on capturing the nuanced emotions tied to major life transitions, such as motherhood, grief, and personal growth. It explores topics like the complexity of preparation, rethinking self-care, societal norms, and personal ideologies, while also touching on the influence of modern culture and social behaviors.

Motherhood Grief and Loss Personal Growth and Self-awareness Preparation and Expectations Self-care and Community Support Societal Norms and Ideologies Modern Culture and Technology Social Behaviors and Interactions

The hottest Substack posts of Maybe Baby

And their main takeaways

15 things I consumed this week

442 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Media Literature Social Trends Food Lifestyle

Reading can take you on unexpected journeys, like one person's experience of trying to quit sugar. It's relatable and thought-provoking.
Social media reactions, like those during a big event, can create a shared experience that feels special and memorable.
Connecting with others through shared interests or stories, whether online or offline, can enhance your life in meaningful ways.

#226: New York’s mayoral race is a parable

2203 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Progressivism Political strategy Media influence

The New York mayoral race shows a clash between old political styles and new ideas. One candidate focuses on exciting, progressive policies while the other relies on name recognition despite a troubled past.
Media often ignore or attack new candidates who propose bold changes, fearing they might disrupt the status quo. This highlights a pattern of sidelining progressive voices in politics.
Supporting candidates with strong, hopeful visions can create a sense of community and empowerment. Engaging in political activism can make people feel part of something bigger and more meaningful.

Speed reviewing my baby registry

468 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25

The author shares quick reviews of their baby registry items. This helps parents-to-be make informed choices about what to buy.
Certain items were consciously purchased by the author beyond the registry, like a bottle sterilizer. These personal choices highlight unique needs and preferences.
Clothing and newborn preparation items weren't included in the reviews. This suggests that those items might need separate consideration and are important in their own right.

15 things I consumed this week

546 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Literature Art Media Lifestyle Personal Reflection

The weather is nice, especially now that it's summer solstice for the northern hemisphere. It's a great time to enjoy the longer days and warm weather.
There’s an interesting essay about Joan Didion that dives into her life and relationships, highlighting both her ambition and the complexities of being a writer.
This content is meant for paid subscribers, indicating that it's exclusive and may contain more in-depth personal insights and recommendations.

#225: Making bad decisions on purpose

1374 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25

🍲 Food & Drink Diet Recipes Parenting Mental health

Making choices that seem bad, like indulging in too many sweets, can be a way to cope with stress and busy life. Sometimes, it's okay to enjoy life even if it looks reckless to others.
Acknowledging that not every choice has to be perfect or ideal can actually help you manage life better. It’s all about what works for you at the moment.
Being flexible with your decisions and recognizing their purpose can lead to a more carefree attitude. It’s about finding a balance between fun and responsibility.

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#224: Aging out of precociousness

1643 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Writing Parenting Aging Wisdom

Aging means letting go of being 'wise beyond your years' and feeling more at ease with your own growth. It's nice not to feel pressured to prove anything.
Experiencing life teaches valuable lessons that can't be rushed. It’s better to learn things through real experiences rather than just trying to sound knowledgeable.
Admiring younger people for their talent can be fulfilling, and it's refreshing to embrace being at a different life stage without competing against them.

15 things I consumed this week

624 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Media Art Literature Current Events Lifestyle

The importance of balancing heavy and light content is a frequent topic. It's common to wonder whether to keep serious articles apart from lighter ones or mix them together.
Reading can bring awareness to serious issues happening around the world, like the situation in Gaza. It's vital to understand these events, even if they're tough to digest.
Engaging with different types of media each week helps broaden perspectives and encourages deeper thinking about both light and heavy subjects.

15 things I consumed this week

494 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25

🎭️ Culture Literature Film Music Television Art

Reading can help you navigate life stages and relationships, especially when considering family dynamics. It's great to explore different perspectives through essays and stories.
Classic TV shows, like 'Seinfeld', still provide entertainment and humor. Revisiting familiar episodes can be a fun way to relax and reminisce.
Exploring new music albums can be exciting, and sharing experiences with friends can enhance the enjoyment. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations or thoughts on what you haven't heard yet.

15 things I consumed this week

589 implied HN points • 30 May 25

🎭️ Culture Literature Art Media Lifestyle Personal Growth

The importance of sticking with things even when they seem slow or dull can lead to valuable insights. Don't rush through; take your time to absorb it all.
Getting enough sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health. When sleep is lacking, life can feel tougher and more challenging.
Reading essays and deep articles can help us connect with our emotions and experiences. They often reveal deeper truths about being human.

Shopping as a "hobby"

602 implied HN points • 28 May 25

🎭️ Culture Fashion Lifestyle Art Commerce Trends

Shopping can be seen as a fun hobby for many people. It mixes creativity with the thrill of finding new items.
There is a debate about shopping being a form of art or just a big money-making business. This makes people think about what fashion really means.
The way we view shopping affects how we think about style and trends in our society. It's important to understand both sides of this conversation.

#207: The Cringe Matrix

2194 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Society Media Celebrity Self-help Identity

Cringe can come in different forms, like wholesome, clueless, train wreck, and malevolent. Each type reflects a mix of awareness and sincerity.
Not all actions that break social norms are cringe-worthy, but knowing your own cringe can help you avoid being too out of touch.
When sharing personal thoughts online, it's important to stay sincere and aware to avoid falling into the trap of inauthenticity.

#203: Not all desires need to be met

3005 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25

It's normal to feel envy for people without kids. They might seem to have more free time and fun, which can make parents miss their old life.
Envy doesn't always mean you want to change your life. Sometimes it's just a feeling that passes, like daydreaming about a different life.
Accepting your current situation can help lessen envy. It's okay to acknowledge your feelings without needing to act on them.

#208: What is rotting, if not rest?

1878 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25

Idling can feel relaxing, but it's not true rest. It's more like zoning out while still being aware of what's around you.
Rotting is when we escape from our feelings and responsibilities through mindless activities. It's a temporary fix that can leave us drained.
Real rest comes from being present and accepting our thoughts and feelings. It’s about feeling worthy of downtime, rather than just avoiding life.

#200: Hey from oblivion

3409 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24

Pregnancy can be a chaotic and emotional time, filled with many responsibilities and physical changes. It's easy to forget your previous self during this overwhelming experience.
The transition to motherhood involves a lot of physical tasks and emotional connections that can be hard to put into words. Sometimes, it feels more real to just experience it rather than try to narrate it.
Finding the balance between experiencing life and reflecting on it is challenging, especially when big changes happen. It's normal to feel uncertain about how to share these experiences with others.

#199: My favorite things of 2024

2832 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24

Aiming,not,for,gi,ft,gi,ft,gi,ft,gi,ft,b,,,bt,r,,i,,,r,,i,,,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,r,r,r,r,r,r,r,r,r,,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,
Good,commotion,,cc,,,c,,,c,,c,,c,,c,,c,,c,,c,,c,,c,,c,,,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,,,,c,c,c,,c,c,c,c,,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,c,,,c,,,c,
Fitting,good,thing,,t,,t,,t,,t,,t,,,t,,,t,,,,t,,,,g,,,t,g,gg,g,gng,g,,,g,,,g,,,,g,tn,ng,c,,c,,c,,,c,c,c,c,,g,,g,,g,,g,,g,,g,,,,,g,gg,g,,,,g,,g,g,g,,,g,,g,,g,,g,,g,,g,,g,gg,,,g,,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,,g,,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,,g,g,g,g,,,g,g,g,g,g,g,,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,,,g,g,g,g,g,g,g,

#209: The death of sex, 3 years later

1058 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Sexuality Society Politics Technology Media

Culture has become less about genuine connection and more about digital interactions, which can feel unfulfilling. Many people are missing out on real emotional experiences that come from touch and presence.
There's a growing tension in politics where both the left and right have problems engaging with different viewpoints. Instead of understanding each other, they often stick to their own narratives, which doesn't help anyone.
Technology has taken over many aspects of life, making interactions feel faster but less meaningful. While some tech is helpful, it often alienates people from each other, making real connections harder to find.

#196: What else is there?

2845 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24

🎭️ Culture Community Parenting Mental health Personal Growth Social connection

Cleaning can be a way to cope with feelings of anger and frustration. Taking action, like organizing your space, can help you feel more in control.
Being part of a community can help reduce feelings of isolation. Simple interactions, like greeting neighbors or attending local events, can bring joy and connection.
Leaving your comfort zone is important for personal growth. Taking small steps to engage with the world outside can lead to better mental health and a sense of belonging.

#198: Trying to see something

2172 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24

🎭️ Culture Relationships Art Mindfulness Self-reflection Gratitude

Over time, people in relationships can notice their differences more than their similarities. It's interesting how our perceptions shift as we get to know someone deeply.
Our appreciation for what we have can fade into the background. It's important to regularly take a moment to recognize and be grateful for the good things in our lives.
Creating or experiencing art can help us appreciate life more fully. It reminds us of sensations we've forgotten and can open our eyes to new feelings and perspectives.

#206: Hosting parties, having babies, being “original”

1192 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Friendship Parenting Socialization Originality Connection

Making friends can happen at any age, and it's normal to want connection. Even if life changes, there are always people looking for friendship.
Hosting parties can be a great way to connect with others, even for introverts. It's about taking a chance to invite people and create opportunities for fun together.
Knowing when you're ready to have kids is personal, and it's okay to feel unsure. Communication with your partner is key, and thinking about your family dynamics can help you decide.

#205: My TikTok Shop purchase history

1214 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Consumer behavior Social media Lifestyle Product Reviews

TikTok Shop has become a popular place for online shopping, making billions in sales since its launch. Many people, despite initial hesitations, are drawn to its simplicity and variety.
While some purchases from TikTok Shop can be enjoyable, many items end up being low quality or unnecessary. It's easy to impulse buy when seeing products advertised by relatable users.
Reflecting on buying habits can reveal a lack of thoughtful choices. Sometimes, the urge to shop online can lead to regret and a realization that we didn't really need those items.

#204: When bad things happen

1279 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Community Disaster Human experience Climate change Personal Reflection

Losing a home in a disaster is more than just losing a building; it can feel like losing your entire world and memories. It's really hard to imagine what that must be like.
When big disasters happen, people often struggle with how to process the pain. It can be confusing to know whether to look closely at the suffering or to step back and avoid it.
Feeling powerless during crises leads to different reactions. Some believe in personal responsibility, while others think a bigger movement is necessary to create real change.

15 things I consumed this week

1006 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Media Literature Art Trends Lifestyle

Emotional labor is often misunderstood and used incorrectly. It's good to learn the right terms to communicate feelings clearly.
Rethinking how we talk about emotions can improve our conversations. Using the right language helps express what we really feel.
Being aware of our consumption, whether it's content or emotions, can lead to better understanding ourselves. Reflecting on what we take in daily can help us grow.

#201: "Mom bod" (& other concerns)

1361 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24

Family relationships can change when one person becomes a parent. It's normal to feel stuck or hurt when someone you used to be close to isn't as present in your life anymore.
Postpartum body image issues are common for new parents. It's important to talk about these feelings and realize that many others are experiencing the same difficulties.
Being more understanding and generous with others can help mend relationships. Sometimes, what seems like a lack of care from someone may actually be ignorance or different life priorities.

15 things I consumed this week

880 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Art Literature Fashion Media Lifestyle

This week I focused on enjoying a lot of desserts because of my period. It was a nice treat to indulge in sweet things.
I read an interesting article about David Lynch and what it was like growing up near him. The story about his Scion car was especially fun.
I found a cute knit outfit for Sunny that makes her look just like Diane Keaton. It's a stylish choice!

15 things I consumed this week

659 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Media Lifestyle Consumption Parenting Observations

Democratic officials misrepresented the economy, causing confusion among voters. It's important to get the facts right so people can understand what's really happening.
The writer mentions a personal struggle with family illnesses, showing how common it is for sickness to spread in households. It's a reminder that health can change quickly.
The author shares a mix of articles and perspectives they consumed, emphasizing the value of staying informed through different sources. Reading widely can help us understand various viewpoints better.

Is it revolutionary to leave a marriage?

602 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Marriage Relationships Personal Growth Social Commentary

Leaving a marriage can be seen as a bold and revolutionary act. It often requires courage and self-reflection.
Not every breakup is the answer for everyone, but some people can find inspiration from those who share their experiences.
There can be practical advice for those considering a breakup, which may help them feel supported in their decision.

15 things I consumed this week

685 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Literature Art Fashion

The author shares a list of things they consumed over the week, which includes various articles and media. It's a way to share recommendations with readers.
They mention a personal note about avoiding getting sick from a family member, highlighting their daily life.
The post is primarily for paid subscribers, suggesting that the content may have more depth and value for paying readers.

Seeking: Dating advice

750 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Relationships Dating Advice Social Lifestyle

Sometimes, it helps to get different perspectives on personal questions. Asking friends or readers can lead to great advice.
Everyone has unique experiences that can inform their advice. Sharing questions publicly can bring in valuable insights.
It's okay to not have all the answers yourself. Leaning on a community for support and guidance can be really beneficial.

15 things I consumed this week

1600 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Social Issues Current Events Activism

It's important to read quality journalism to understand lessons from recent elections, rather than relying on social media.
Supporting organizations like the Women's Emergency Network can make a difference in helping women access necessary healthcare, especially during tough times.
Finding joy in small moments, like a child's birthday celebration, can provide a much-needed morale boost amid challenging news.

#170: Like a mother

5039 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24

Parenthood comes with challenges that can feel overwhelming but adapting and asking for help can make a difference.
Trusting your instincts and learning through mistakes are vital in the journey of becoming a mother.
The transition to motherhood is incredibly tough, yet the joy and connection with your child can make it all worthwhile.

#202: A Maybe Baby year in review

806 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24

🎭️ Culture Essays Parenting Style Podcasts Existential

The author reflects on a year of ups and downs in their writing journey, sharing insights from their personal and creative life.
There are exciting offerings for subscribers, including essays, recommendations, and podcasts that cover various topics, especially parenting and culture.
A special promotion is available for new subscribers, making it a good time to access exclusive content and connect with the community.

#197: What is "personal style"?

1058 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24

🪞 Fashion & Beauty Personal style Fashion Trends Consumerism Self-confidence

Building personal style takes time and patience. It's important to focus on what makes you feel good rather than chasing trends.
Shopping from a place of calm and self-acceptance leads to better choices. It's better to invest in high-quality pieces that you truly love.
Finding your style is more about knowing yourself than fitting into a mold. Enjoy the journey of discovering what feels authentic to you.

15 things I consumed this week

680 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Trends Personal Social

People are consuming a lot of different media each week. It's interesting to see what others are watching, reading, or listening to.
Oral histories and interviews can provide deep insights into culture and entertainment. They can be both fascinating and sometimes a bit sad to reflect on.
Entertainment news and celebrity gossip can spark discussions and speculation among fans. It's fun to wonder about the lives of celebrities, like if Kylie is pregnant.

#195: Alas, the Timothée Chalamet look-alike contest

1101 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24

🎭️ Culture Events Art Social Dynamics Pop culture

The Timothée Chalamet look-alike contest in New York was a fun, unexpected event that brought a lot of people together. It showed how much people enjoy whimsical and silly activities.
The awkward moments during the contest reminded us that real life can be messy and unpredictable. Sometimes, those messy experiences create the best memories.
In a world focused on comfort and ease, we often miss out on surprises and delightful chaos. Embracing a little discomfort can lead to richer, more memorable experiences.

15 things I consumed this thing

550 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Media Parenting Personal Politics Trends

A lot is happening with the Israel-Hamas conflict and there was a recent ceasefire agreement discussed in a New Yorker interview. It's interesting to learn how these agreements come about.
Balancing life with a toddler can be tough, especially when they keep you up at night. It shows how parenting can be challenging and exhausting.
Consuming different media can give us fresh perspectives on ongoing events. It’s good to stay informed and think about how various stories connect to our lives.

#194: On grief and posting through it

1097 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24

🎭️ Culture Grief Social media Communication Mental health Relationships

Grief doesn't have a 'right' way to be expressed. It's okay to feel a mix of emotions and thoughts during this tough time.
Sharing about loved ones on social media can feel awkward, but it also offers a chance for connection and support from friends.
Wanting attention or recognition for your feelings is natural. Seeking out comfort from others can be a healthy part of your grieving process.

15 things I consumed this week

563 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Media Food Art Writing Community

Sharing resources is important during tough times, especially for those affected by disasters. It's good to help each other find places that need support.
Being aware of what's happening around us, like natural disasters, helps us stay connected as a community. Taking action, even small steps, can make a difference for those in need.
Consuming different kinds of media can enrich our lives and keep us informed. It's fun and interesting to share what we've been reading, watching, or listening to.

15 things I consumed this week

676 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24

🎭️ Culture Art Food Media Music Fashion

A recent article discusses how Spotify is using fake stock music to fill popular playlists and save on royalty costs for musicians. It's a surprising practice that reflects larger issues in the music industry.
A sugar cookie recipe from the New York Times was shared, and the cookies turned out really well. This shows that sometimes simple recipes can lead to delicious results.
The post marks the last installment of the year for sharing consumed media, highlighting the importance of reflecting on what we've experienced throughout the year.

15 things I consumed this week

325 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Fashion Food

Reading can be a way to challenge your thinking, especially about complex topics like divorce. It's interesting to explore new perspectives on familiar issues.
Winter can feel long and tiresome for many, making people eager for spring. Sharing feelings about the season can connect us with others experiencing the same.
Consuming various types of content can enhance our understanding of the world. It's a great way to discover diverse ideas and spark conversations.

15 things I consumed this week

641 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24

🎭️ Culture Food Art Media Literature Lifestyle

Tilda Swinton's interview is really engaging and could go on forever. It's a great mix of interesting thoughts and conversation.
Enjoying simple pleasures like whisky sours and fries can really make for a cozy experience. It’s nice to treat yourself to little things in a comforting setting.
It's great to move past feeling unwell and find joy in sharing experiences again. Returning to favorite activities can be refreshing.