Michelle is the kind of person that lights up a room. Her time as Miss Massachusetts may lend to that mega-watt glow she gives off, but in our humble opinion, it might have more to do with her amazing smile and charm. She’s simply contagious. 

As president of United Way Greater New Bedford, Michelle is very busy on the local scene, and her commitment to her community is truly inspiring. Add to that, a sweet little boy named Maxson, and it’s easy to see why she takes the Modern Mom title. 

What does a typical day in the life of Michelle consist of?

Most days I’m up at 6:15am. Maxson is in daycare 2 days a weeks, and the other days, we have my mom or our babysitter take care of him in our home. There’s a huge difference on daycare days though, when we all need to get out the door, dressed, fed and to work on time. On a daycare day, Jason usually feeds Max breakfast while I prepare his lunch box. It’s a team effort! 

Eating dinner every night as a family is a priority for me – 6:30pm sharp! I cook most weeknights. I try to get 2 meals out of most, reinventing the recipe the second day… Broiled fish with veggies and sweet potato one night, becomes fish tacos with all the fixings on the next. I can make 20 minute meals… Rachel Ray has nothing on me! I try to work out after work three times a week. On those days, I try to make a crockpot or leftover dinner. I’m a huge fan of the crockpot. It’s funny, because in the Portuguese culture, people don’t use a crockpot unless it’s to keep something warm at a party… However, my mother-in-law (not Portuguese BTW!) gave me a crockpot after we got married and I was hooked.  And a couple of years ago, my mom got me a super duper fancy crockpot, and I love it! I use it at least once a week.

7:30 is bath time. Jason and I do the entire bath and bed routine together. We literally strip Maxson down, roll up whatever we have on, sleeves, pants, and we all get in the big jacuzzi tub together. Then story time for 10-15 minutes and Max is in bed shortly after 8. Jason and I catch up on computer stuff, shows on DVR… we are usually in bed by 11. Often times, I’m falling asleep on the couch before that while watching TV.

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Green is in season! We love the abundance of fresh green at every turn.   

 What’s not to love?

Take versions of this classic color from smart nursery upgrades to your everyday accessory collection.

It’s one of the most important shopping lists you’ll ever create: the baby registry. For first time moms, it’s a sea of “must-haves” and too many options. Editing, sorting and working a list can be fun, over the top, or simply bar-code scan scary… but don’t worry, you can do it.  

“Does this come in King-Size?” – Gina, on the aiden + anais Dream Blanket

The key is to find products that are essential to you and baby. To that, be creative, choose things that borrow from your personal style, and will help you through your everyday. Gina Biscaia, an expectant mom, offers up her short list… we love her sense of style {just check out her pinterest}…and her top five “must-have” picks: 

1.Cloud B Sleep Sheep Plush Sound Machine with Four Soothing Sounds: The Sleep Sheep consistently gets rave reviews from other moms – I’m hoping it lives up to its reputation!  When compared to other noise machines on the market, this one is by far the cutest. 

2.aden + anais Muslin Dream Blanket Four Layer: Does this come in king size? I felt this Aiden and Anais blanket at another new mom’s house and I had to have it. I think it will be a nap-time favorite for both baby and mamma. 

3.Chicco Liteway Stroller – Orion: Long walks will be a key part of my post-pregnancy fitness routine. This stroller will keep us on the move!

4.Beaba Babycook BPA Free Baby Food Maker: We planted our backyard garden this year with baby food in mind. I’ll be using this item to prepare fresh squash and peas for our new arrival.  

5.aden + anais Muslin Single Swaddle Wrap: I’m due in August so I need a swaddling option that will keep my little bundle cool. These prints are great and the fabric is lovely. While a smidge expensive, I think they will be worth every penny. 

Gina Biscaia and her husband, Flavio, will welcome their first child in August 2012.