9 Flexible Side Hustles for the Stay-at-Home Mom

1. Faye

The name Faye has a delicate charm that makes it seem as if it were plucked straight from a fairytale. It literally means "fairy" in Old French, too, and calls to mind images of enchanted forests that are home to woodland creatures.

Aside from its more mystical appeal, Faye has roots in Middle English and Latin, where it signifies "belief" and "loyalty." So, along with being a bit whimsical, this pick is perfect for a devoted girl with a free spirit.

2. Jasper

Jasper sounds warm and deep, which is why it really fits in with the cottagecore aesthetic. Persian in origin, the name means "treasurer" and also represents a beautiful gemstone.

And historically, Jasper was one of the Three Wise Men who journeyed to Bethlehem, adding some wisdom and tradition. This is a fitting choice for a boy who's strong but still in touch with his soft side.

3. Maisie

Derived from the Scottish form of Margaret, Maisie means "pearl" and can symbolize your small yet precious baby girl.

This name is sweet and vintage but maintains a playful and modern appeal. Maisie truly feels like the name of a little one who loves picking wildflowers and staying in touch with their surroundings.

4. Lyle

Lyle has a quiet allure that suits the tranquil spirit of cottagecore well. This name has Norman French origins, meaning "island" or "from the island," and evokes pictures of nature.

While Lyle might seem soft, understated, and gentle, it's equally strong and sounds like the name of a boy who spends his mornings reading beneath old oak trees and afternoons exploring the world around him.

5. Dahlia

Graceful and elegant, Dahlia is derived from the Swedish word "dal," meaning "valley." The flower itself is also known for its vibrant colors and intricate petals, which symbolize creativity and inner grace.

Dahlia feels like a great name for a girl who's resilient, loves the environment, and feels most at home in serene settings.

6. Miles

With Latin and German origins, Miles means "soldier" or "merciful" and balances strength with kindness. It's this juxtaposition that makes the name feel old-worldly and timeless.

Miles is simultaneously refined and approachable, making it ideal for a baby boy who will come to appreciate life's simple pleasures.

7. Rosemary

Rosemary is botanical, harking back to the herb, so it's a pretty irresistible choice for plenty of cottagecore parents. Derived from the Latin "rosmarinus," meaning "dew of the sea," this name is steeped in history, romance, and natural beauty.

It's also been long associated with remembrance and love. As a vintage pick, Rosemary epitomizes the cottagecore lifestyle.

8. River

Finally, a few names are able to capture the spirit of nature quite like River, which embodies movement and serenity. It's traditionally been more common for boys but is also rising in popularity for baby girls.

River symbolizes growth and change, so it's a wonderful reminder for any child to embrace the journey and go with the flow.

1. New Music Will No Longer Bring Joy

Whether you grew up in the age of records, CDs, or iPods, discovering new music is always a thrill when you're young. At the same time, the "old" tunes your parents blast in the car seem stale, and they probably scoff at whatever music you choose to listen to.

Yet, as time goes by, something strange happens. The latest chart-toppers will begin to sound like noise, and you'll find yourself defending the music you grew up listening to, claiming it's way better than what younger generations are enjoying now.

Science has an explanation for this shift. As we get older, our brains process dopamine, or the chemical that makes music exciting, less efficiently. That means the songs you once obsessed over still hit you hard, but new ones just don't spark the same joy.

2. Rebellion Won't Be Appealing Anymore

When you're a teenager, it's practically a rite of passage to be rebellious. Rules seem like they're made to be broken, and anything from sneaking out to defying authority figures at school feels like fair game.

However, you won't always be so bold. That's because, as your brain matures, the rebellious streak that once fueled the late nights and questionable decisions of your teenage years and twenties will fade. The same neurological shifts that make teens impulsive begin to mellow out with age, resulting in an increased sense of empathy and responsibility.

So, when you see some newly licensed teens racing down the road in their first car or egging houses on Halloween, you'll eventually start to shake your head at the recklessness, just like your parents.

3. Previously Boring Things Will Bring You Satisfaction

The idea of cleaning out the garage or tending to the garden on a Saturday probably sounds like a boring nightmare to most teenagers. At that point in our lives, our activities were driven by excitement and chasing instant gratification or an "adrenaline" rush.

Yet, as we mature, those previously "boring" hobbies start to feel, well, satisfying. While teenagers crave high-reward and low-effort activities, older adult brains begin to prioritize long-term fulfillment over fleeting joy or excitement.

That's why, out of nowhere, you may suddenly appreciate slower weekend mornings, organizing the bathroom on your day off, and spending hours picking out home decor.

4. You Won't Be Able To Sleep In

Sleeping until noon feels like a basic human right (and quite easy) during your teens or twenties. And back then, when you rolled out of bed in your pajamas halfway through the day, your parents might've called you lazy.

Contrary to popular belief, the shift toward earlier wake-up times in adulthood isn't about discipline; it's biology. Teenagers' bodies naturally produce melatonin later, making it harder for them to wake up early.

Then, as you age, your internal clock gradually changes, making it much tougher to sleep in, regardless of how tired you feel. Someday soon, you might find yourself brewing coffee at the crack of dawn and wondering how you ever wasted so much time lying in bed.

5. Bad News, Men: Your Motivation To Change Will Fade

After you graduated from high school or college, you might've sworn that you'd never "let yourself go." So, you may have hit the gym like it was your second job and chased after promotions like they were candy to further your career.

If you fast forward a couple of decades, though, that drive starts to fade, and testosterone is actually the culprit.

This hormone, which is responsible for muscle mass, motivation, and energy, peaks around age 40 before gradually declining. As it drops, the urgency to push yourself goes with it. You'll no longer be jumping at the chance to stay late at work or stick to your old, grueling six-day workout regimen.

6. Bland Food Won't Seem So Terrible

If you're a self-proclaimed "foodie," you love visiting fancy restaurants, trying new cuisines, and think your palate is only getting more refined as you age.

But if you've ever wondered why older adults seem perfectly fine with eating the same old bland meals every week, science has the answer. You may not know that, as you age, your mouth produces less saliva, which is crucial for breaking down food and bringing flavors to your taste buds.

On top of that, appetite naturally shrinks, meaning dinners are more of a necessity than an experience. Suddenly, some plain crackers and apple juice won't seem so bad after all.

7. You'll Reminisce, Just Like Your Parents

Nowadays, you might roll your eyes when you hear your parents tell the same childhood story (or rant about how things were "so much better" back in the day) for the hundredth time. You may even have a pact with yourself, promising to stay more current and open-minded.

Well, when you get older, your brain actually relies on nostalgia as a sort of built-in natural antidepressant. In other words, reminiscing helps older people counteract the stress and responsibilities of adult life.

This is why long-winded stories about the "good old days" become even more frequent with age, and someday, you'll likely find yourself falling into the same pattern.

Wild Fable Ruby Cherry Mesh Slide Sandals

These easy slide-on sandals are way too cute! Dotted with little cherry motifs, they're such a playful way to step into the warmer season and will work with a variety of outfits.

Teva Midform Universal Studded Sandals

Fitted with the classic EVA midsole-powered comfort of Tevas and elevated with premium leather straps and silver studs, this wear-with-everything pair means you don't ever have to sacrifice practicality for the look this summer!

Schutz Inez Strappy Sandals

These dainty strappy sandals are going to be perfect for more formal occasions this year. The elegant shine gives 'em that luxe effect that many heels have, but these are nothing but comfortable since they actually boast a flat, very-walkable sole.

Franco Sarto Loran Sandals

These cheetah print sandals are downright stunning. If you like to make a statement with your summer sandals, this pair is definitely for you. Though heightened by a small heel, its blocky nature makes walking in these a total breeze. Plus, they're fitted with hidden thong posts for added stability each time you strut!

Melissa Possession Fresh Sandals

This cutesy pair combines two of our favorite summer sandal trends: jelly-like materials and fisherman styles! Both supply an undeniable retro vibe, which wears well with timeless wide-leg jeans and flowy white skirts for summertime.

FRANKIE4 Isla Black Sandals

These streamlined black sandals are podiatrist-designed, meaning they were thoughtfully made with ample heel, arch, and forefoot support – score! The subtly strappy look up top makes them ever-so trendy, plus they're made of a durable waterproof leather that's certainly pool- and beach-friendly. Vacay is calling!

Beach by Matisse Del Mar Platform Sandals

Raffia sandals are huge right now, and they're sure to have some staying power well into the summer season. This pair in particular is boosted nicely by a platform sole that's partnered up with some comfy, cushiony support with each step. Their neutral color will be super easy to wear with a multitude of summer 'fits!

Bibi Lou Holly Sandals

We're already so here for metallic shoes like sneakers, so these slip-ons are definitely going on our summer shoe wishlist. Boasting a wide woven design on the upper, these sleek sandals also have a teeny-tiny heel to give 'em that polished feel – without discarding their immaculate comfort level for summer strolls!

Steve Madden Shelee Sandals

Simple and streamlined in their shape, the real star of these cute summer sandals is the bold, gold, adjustable buckle on the sides! They're a great pair to reach for for the feel of a flip flop, but the look of a chic formal sandal.

Shade & Shore Rosette Thong Flip Flop Sandals

These are not your average flip flops! Designed with a squared toe and an adorable rosette decal along the straps that easily elevate their look, you no longer have to settle for that years-old pair that's sitting in your closet right now.