From Babies to Teenagers, and How the Lessons Still Follow Me
A look at my life in 2025 as a mom of teens, a writer, and the creator of 50 Things to Know Before Having a Baby. What parenting looks like now, what has stayed the same, and how daily routines keep our family grounded.
How 2025 Feels Compared to the Baby Years
When I wrote 50 Things to Know Before Having a Baby, my world was centered on sleep schedules, what to put in the diaper bags, and learning the importance of my five senses. I did not expect that post to become the most visited page on this blog. The fact that it still brings readers here tells me something important. The desire for simple, clear guidance never goes away. That is why I created the 50 things to know book series, then my travel guide book series, Greater than a Tourist, Travel Like a Local, and Eat Like a Local. I was looking for simple tips and I want to give them to others.
In 2025 my daughters are fourteen and ten. Our routines look nothing like they did during those early days. I see my sister going though it and I wish I knew better ways to help them.
The shift this year has been significant. But what has stayed the same is letting them try new things, seeing them fail, and then bing super proud as they learn new skills. I spend more time driving, planning, and adjusting. Things I have not really enjoyed but I am growing as a person as I learn these new skills. I also get to become friends with their parents friends and their friends. It has been a joy to see them grow up. One of the biggest joys of my life!
Work and Creative Life in 2025
If you are wondering what I am doing now, well I am still creating books. I love working with authors around the world. Also audiobooks too. I have not published any books that I wrote recently, but I have published 80 books under CZYK Publishing this year. Since I have been doing this for 14 years now, I think I get a little better at it each year.
Looking Back at the Blog’s Beginnings
Charlie the Cavalier began when my children were babies. I shared small slices of life because writing helped me make sense of each new stage. Even as the content shifted, readers continued to find this space because the themes are universal. Parenting requires constant learning, no matter the year or age of your child. I still do update my facebook page if you are interested in seeing more: Lisa Rusczyk Author.
