Support Your 2nd Child: Melissa on Navigating Challenges + Spinach Artichoke Dip

Send us a text with your feedback here!In this episode, Melissa Donald, doula and mom of two, joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to explore the challenges of parenting when reality doesn’t match expectations. Melissa shares how the birth of her second child, with a completely different temperament from her first, reshaped her understanding of parenting. She opens up about the toll isolation and unexpected challenges had on her family system and the internal narrative she struggled to overcome.As they discuss parenting insights, support, and lessons learned, Melissa also shares her favorite Spinach and Artichoke Dip recipe from Delish.com—a crowd-pleaser perfect for any family gathering.Subscribe, like, and follow for relatable parenting stories, practical tips, and delicious recipes!💬 What parenting challenges have you faced? Share your story in the comments!🥗 Tried the recipe? Let us know how it turned out!*****Credit: https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a57633/baked-spinach-artichoke-dip-recipe/ Ingredients:1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softened3/4 c. mayonnaise3/4 c. sour cream1 c. freshly grated Parmesan1 c. shredded white cheddar, plus more for topping1/2 c. shredded Gruyère1 (14-oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped1 (10-oz.) package frozen spinach, defrosted and chopped2 cloves garlic, minced1 tsp. lemon zest1/2 tsp. red pepper flakesKosher saltFreshly ground black pepperTortilla chips, for servingInstructions:Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except baguette. Mix until fully combined and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a baking dish and smooth top with a spatula. Top with more shredded white cheddar.Bake until bubbly and slightly golden, 30 minutes. If you’d like the dip to develop a more golden top, broil on high for 2 minutes.Serve with baguette on the side, for dipping.*******If you or your loved one is struggling with any of the topics discussed, here are some resources:Postpartum Support International: https://www.postpartum.net/*******Disclaimer:The content provided on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice or treatment. The views and opinions expressed by the host(s) and guests are their own. ******Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988Go to your local hospital or call 911