Welcome To
 The xo Blog

It can be difficult to know how to prepare a toddler for a new baby. Every child reacts differently to change—especially when that change is a new baby brother or sister! As a mom of 4 and someone who’s worked with thousands of parents, I’ve picked up a few helpful tips and tricks for making […]

Finding the perfect family-friendly places to stay on your vacation in Branson, MO can level up your trip. So, here are the top spots to stay, based on hundreds of parent votes. These places are tried, tested, and kid-approved to make your vacation a whole lot easier (and way more fun)! 4 Best Places To […]

Books to help prepare your toddler for a new baby are lifesavers during this exciting yet sometimes overwhelming transition. They act as bridges connecting your toddler’s world to the idea of having a sibling. With the right book, the process feels less overwhelming and much more enjoyable. These stories spark important conversations about what’s happening […]

Are you looking for the best Branson shows for kids for your family vacation?   As a mom of 4 and family photographer in the Branson area, our family has been to many Branson shows for kids recommended by clients over the years in the area. There are so many fun ways to entertain the whole […]

Finding the best books for expecting moms can be such a relief during your pregnancy.  It is an excellent way to learn about your growing body and baby and tips to help prepare for your pregnancy and the following stages after your baby is born.  As a Springfield, MO maternity and newborn photographer, I have […]

As a family photographer, I get the inside scoop from clients about their love for the best waterpark in Branson MO, and let me tell you—they are a blast! Whether you’ve got toddlers or teens (or even grandparents tagging along), these waterparks have something for everyone. With both indoor and outdoor options, you can splash […]

Finding the best pediatric dentist in Springfield, MO, can feel like a big task, especially when most kids aren’t exactly fans of the dentist! Believe me, I get it. That’s why I decided to ask hundreds of local parents for their recommendations. After all, who better to trust than those who’ve been through it all? […]

Are you looking for the BEST swimming holes in Springfield MO, for summer fun? Our family went scouting and created a list of our favorite ones! One of our favorite things to do in the summer is going to a swimming hole to splash around, fish, look for animals, get a tan, and spend time […]

As a mom of 4 and a Springfield MO family photographer, I often hear of moms looking for indoor playgrounds in Springfield MO. Are you looking for new kid-approved indoor playgrounds in Springfield, MO? Rainy and cold days can be challenging with kids because they have so much energy and are ready to play! (Or […]

Whether you are a homeschooling family looking for a great local field trip or just want a fun family outing that is fun with a good opportunity for your kids to learn a few new fun, this list is for you. These top attractions in Springfield, MO, are educational but can be fun for the […]