Braxton’s Next Big Step: Starting Pre-K 4

Last year, I shared a milestone that was both exciting and emotional for our family: my son Braxton starting Pre-K for the very first time. If you missed that story, you can read it here.

This year, we’ve hit another milestone, Braxton has officially started Pre-K 4. And let me tell you, what a difference a year makes! The growth, changes, and even the challenges we’ve seen over the past year have been eye-opening.

Growth We’ve Seen

In just one year, Braxton has blossomed in ways we couldn’t have imagined.

Advanced vocabulary: His teachers continue to remark on how well he communicates. We’ve always been intentional about speaking to him in full sentences and encouraging conversation, and it shows. He comes home using new words and phrases daily, and sometimes even surprises us with how articulate he’s become.
Confidence in the classroom: Last year, he was the “new kid” navigating school for the first time. This year, he’s stepped into the role of class leader. He’s more comfortable, more vocal, and even helps his younger classmates when he can.
Love of learning: From storytelling to counting games, Braxton has fully embraced the joy of learning. It’s such a gift to watch his curiosity unfold in real time.

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithSeptember 2, 2025twelve, motherhoodComment

How to Find the Best Dentist in Your City: A Comprehensive Guide

Finding a great dentist is essential for maintaining good oral health, preventing dental issues, and ensuring you receive top-notch care. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which dentist is right for you. Whether you're new to an area, looking to switch providers, or searching for a specialist, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Once you’ve found the right dentist, make regular appointments for checkups and cleanings to maintain good oral health.

Choosing the best dentist requires research, recommendations, and personal visits. By following these steps, you’ll find a provider who meets your needs, fits your budget, and helps you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

Lifestyle & Travel, MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithApril 16, 2025smile tips, twelve, teeth tipsComment

Braxton's Big Milestone: Turning 3 and Starting Pre-K

This year has been a major milestone for my little boy, Braxton. He turned 3 and officially started pre-K in August! The transition from home to school has been quite an adventure, not just for him but for our entire family. I’m sure many parents can relate to the whirlwind of emotions and adjustments that come with this phase.

For the first three years of his life, Braxton was home with us, and we made a very intentional decision not to enroll him in daycare. Instead, I retired my mom to be his caretaker, and she’s been with him since birth. With both Reggie and I having demanding schedules as dental professionals, we felt this was the best option for our family. I worked four days a week while Reggie, who’s semi-retired, worked three days a week. We maintained a good balance of time with our patients and plenty of quality time with Braxton, which was a priority for us.

It’s important to note that our decision to keep him out of daycare was purely based on our unique situation. We have nothing against daycare and would’ve gladly gone that route if we didn’t have the choice to have my mom care for him. Every family has to do what works best for them!

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithOctober 2, 2024twelve, motherhoodComment

The Entrepreneur Trap: Designing a Business That Supports Your Life

Justin Welch once said, "The happiest entrepreneurs I know aren't the richest. They're the ones who built a business that complements their lives rather than consuming it." This statement resonates deeply with many of us who have ventured into entrepreneurship, only to find ourselves ensnared in a trap of our own making. The entrepreneur trap is the misconception that success is measured solely by revenue. In reality, true success lies in the freedom and fulfillment that comes from designing a business that supports your life. In the pursuit of entrepreneurial success, it's easy to fall into the trap of equating revenue with happiness. However, the happiest entrepreneurs are those who design their businesses to complement their lives rather than consume them. By working during your most productive times, pursuing an inspiring mission, and automating or delegating the rest, you can create a business that supports your life and brings true success in the form of freedom and fulfillment.

How Motherhood Is Just Like Running a Business

As a mother and business owner, I’ve come to realize that the skills required to excel in both roles are strikingly similar. The multitasking, the planning, the emotional investment, and the sheer determination needed to succeed as a mother mirror the qualities necessary for running a successful business. Owning and operating an orthodontics practice, an online candle company, and a blog that has blossomed into a small business has given me unique insights into how motherhood and entrepreneurship intersect. Let’s explore the parallels between these two demanding yet rewarding roles.

By embracing the similarities between these two roles, we can draw strength from our experiences and apply valuable lessons across different areas of our lives. Whether nurturing a child or growing a business, the journey is filled with ups and downs, but the rewards are immeasurable. Let’s celebrate the parallels between motherhood and business and continue to thrive in both realms.

Motherhood, Professional FinancialDr. Patrice SmithJuly 3, 2024twelve, motherhood, professional developmentComment

Slowing Down: The Secret to a Fulfilled Life

I wanted to share something that's been on my mind lately. You know, we're often caught up in the whirlwind of life—rushing from one task to another, ticking off endless to-do lists, and constantly striving for more. We live in a world that glorifies hustle culture, where busyness is worn like a badge of honor and productivity is often seen as the ultimate goal. But have you ever stopped to wonder if this relentless pace is really serving us?

In slowing down, we open ourselves up to a richer, more meaningful life. We find joy in the little things, deepen our relationships, and discover a sense of peace and contentment that hustle culture could never provide. So, let's embrace the art of slowing down and savor each moment of this beautiful journey called life

I've been reflecting on this a lot, and I've come to realize that the hustle culture we've been conditioned to embrace might actually be doing us more harm than good. It's time we consider the profound benefits of slowing down.

My Recommended Toothpastes with Hydroxyapatite

Everyone is looking for natural alternatives to everything these days, your toothpaste is no different. For many many years we’ve heard our dentists tell us about the importance and benefits of fluoride and why we need to ensure that it exists in all our dental products. I am one of those dentists that have long touted the use of fluoride. The benefits and importance of it still holds true. However, in our quest to find more natural options hydroxyapatite as a fluoride substitute has been getting a lot of attention lately.

There is a pretty distinct difference between fluoride and hydroxyapatite. Fluoride is a naturally found element and in toothpaste it works by building a stronger, more acid resistant tooth surface and thus help to prevent cavities. However, higher doses of fluoride are seen to be possibly unsafe and can weaken bones and ligaments. The amount you’re likely to use in your toothpaste, under 20mg, is safe.

3 Years of Motherhood: Navigating New Phases and Balancing Life's Demands

My son, Braxton, just turned 3, and it's astonishing to reflect on how much has changed over the last three years. When he turned 2, I thought I was getting the hang of motherhood and thought by now I could ease back into focusing more on my career. However, this past year has shown me that each phase brings new challenges and rewards. Instead of finding it easier to balance work and family, I've been leaning more toward family life and the idea of being a stay-at-home mom (SAHM), or perhaps even semi-retired like my husband has crossed my mind several times. Each day, I’m taking things step by step and trusting God to guide my decisions.

Motherhood, Lifestyle & TravelDr. Patrice SmithJune 2, 2024twelve, motherhoodComment

New Mom Must-Haves: Showering Love with Practical Gifts

I have officially entered the phase of life where all my friends, acquaintances, and colleagues are married, and it seems like there's a baby shower almost every month. As the invitations pile up, so can the pressure to find the perfect gift for the new parents-to-be. This is why today, I've compiled a list of some seriously stellar ideas for baby shower gifts that new moms will adore.

Baby showers can be a fun time for everyone: cake, party games, gender reveals, and all the fun things, But baby showers can also be stressful for the guest who has no idea what to gift the new parents. So, Let's talk strategy - First off, always check if the parents-to-be have a registry. Trust me, this will help you in making sure your gift hits the mark. And speaking from experience, the best baby shower gifts are often those that new parents have requested or recommended. If you’re looking for some inspiration, below are some of our picks for the best baby shower gifts and ideas for showering the parents-to-be.

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithApril 17, 2024twelve, motherhoodComment

Designing Your Life with Purpose and Freedom

In today’s world we often equate success with material wealth and possessions. It's easy to get caught up in the rat race of accumulation. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder in a 9-5 job or running your own business, the pressure to chase after money and status can feel overwhelming. However, there's a different approach—one that prioritizes intentional living and designing your life around what truly matters.

Intentional living is about aligning your actions and choices with your values and goals, rather than simply going through the motions dictated by societal norms or external expectations. It's about consciously crafting a life that brings you joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose, regardless of your financial situation or professional aspirations.

Lifestyle & Travel, MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithFebruary 21, 2024twelve, personal development, professional development, motherhoodComment

Why I Have a Weekly family Business Meeting

In the bustle of modern life, finding a delicate balance between work and family can be akin to walking a tightrope. As an orthodontist and practice owner alongside my husband, a general dentist, with a lively two-year-old in tow, life is a constant juggling act. Amidst the myriad responsibilities, we've found a beacon of organization and harmony in an unexpected place: the weekly family business meeting.

Our family, much like a business, requires strategic planning and, most importantly, regular check-ins. The weekly family business meeting has become our compass, guiding us through the maze of tasks, appointments, and familial responsibilities. It's a designated time to synchronize our calendars, discuss the upcoming week's events, and ensure we're all on the same page.

23 Goals for 2023 End of year Check-In

As this year comes to a close, I find myself revisiting the 23 goals I set for myself in my "23 Goals for 2023" blog post at the beginning of this year. Along the way, I provided a mid-year check-in to update you on my progress, and here we are now, at the end-of-year check-in, evaluating how far I've come and what I've achieved.

2023 turned out to be more challenging than I anticipated. While I didn't quite accomplish all 23 goals I set, I managed to achieve the more meaningful ones. As the year unfolded, I had to prioritize certain things over others. It's been a year of growth, of learning to appreciate the small things, and understanding the true essence of wealth – family, health, and simple moments of joy.

Discovering True Wealth: The New Rich

In a world often measured by financial wealth, the concept of true richness extends beyond bank accounts and possessions. It’s about acknowledging the overlooked treasures that enrich our lives, nurturing our spirits and granting us a sense of fulfillment. Welcome to "The New Rich," where abundance transcends monetary figures and instead resides in the simple yet profound aspects of existence.

What if our genuine wealth is rooted in the things we often take for granted? Imagine waking up to a sunrise, feeling the gentle morning breeze, or savoring the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. These simple pleasures, often overlooked in the rush of daily life, compose the fabric of true richness. It's about relishing the unhurried moments that embrace our souls, granting us a profound sense of fulfillment.

Elevate Your Well-being: Self-Care Gift Guide for Busy Professionals

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, prioritizing self-care often takes a backseat. As busy professionals, the demands of work, responsibilities, and commitments can leave us feeling drained and depleted. But fear not, because it's time to reclaim a moment of tranquility and rejuvenation with our curated Self-Care Gift Guide.

This gift guide is specially crafted for the dedicated professionals out there who are always on the go, juggling multiple tasks, and constantly striving for success. We understand the importance of carving out moments of self-care amidst the chaos, which is why we've handpicked a selection of thoughtful, practical, and indulgent items to help you unwind and prioritize your well-being.

Motherhood, Lifestyle & TravelDr. Patrice SmithNovember 29, 2023gift guide, Gift Guide, self care, twelveComment

Ultimate 2023 Holiday Gift Guide: Perfect Presents for Everyone on Your List!

'Tis the season to spread joy, and what better way to do so than with the perfect gifts that light up the faces of your loved ones? It's that time of year again, and I'm thrilled to unveil my highly anticipated 2023 Holiday Gift Guide! Year after year, this curated selection of gifts has been a favorite among my readers, and I can't wait to share this year's fabulous finds with you all.

As the holidays draw near, finding the ideal presents can often be a daunting task. But fear not! My ultimate gift guide is here to make your holiday shopping a breeze. Handpicked with care and thoughtfulness, this collection features an array of gifts that cater to every taste, personality, and budget.

Lifestyle & Travel, Motherhood, Professional FinancialDr. Patrice SmithNovember 22, 2023gift guide, 2023 gift guide, twelveComment

Embracing Life's Changing Seasons

Life is an intriguing journey, a winding path that takes us through various stages, each molding our priorities and reshaping our perspectives. As I reflect on my own journey, I've come to realize that our priorities are ever-shifting, mirroring the different chapters of our lives.

In my early twenties, my fervent aspiration was to become an orthodontist. The drive for success and ambition surged within me, propelling me toward my professional goals. I dedicated tireless hours to study, embracing every opportunity to advance my career.

As my late twenties unfolded into the early thirties, my focus shifted gears. I found myself immersed in building my career, relishing in accomplishments and accolades.

Motherhood, Lifestyle & TravelDr. Patrice SmithNovember 15, 2023twelve, personal development Comments

Stocking Stuffers that Spark Smiles: 8 Orthodontist-Approved Oral Care Products Under $25

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to spread joy than by filling your loved ones' stockings with gifts that contribute to their oral health? As an orthodontist, I know the importance of maintaining a healthy, radiant smile, and I've curated a list of eight smile-worthy stocking stuffers – all under $25. These oral care products are not only affordable but also recommended by yours truly to keep those pearly whites in tip-top shape.

Lifestyle & Travel, MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithNovember 9, 2023gift guide, stocking stuffers, twelveComment

Electric Flossers Face-Off: Slate vs. Flaus

Flossing has long been a crucial component of maintaining excellent oral health. However, it's a task that many people tend to overlook or simply find cumbersome. Thankfully, modern technology has brought us electric flossers, making this essential dental hygiene routine more convenient and effective. In this comparison, we'll take a closer look at two prominent players in the electric flosser market: Slate and Flaus. We'll explore their key features, design, and functionality to help you make an informed decision on which one suits your oral care needs best.

Lifestyle & Travel, MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithOctober 18, 2023smile tips, twelveComment

Product Review: Willow Pump 3.0 - Total Mobility and Convenience for Nursing Moms

Not too long ago, my now 2-year-old son was nursing, and having a breastfeeding pump that was versatile and mobile was an absolute game-changer. I vividly remember those days of juggling a busy schedule, patients to see, and a little one to care for. It was during this time that I discovered the Willow Pump 3.0, a device that promised total mobility and convenience. In this review, I'll share my experience with the Willow Pump 3.0, how it eased my daily routine, and why I believe it's an essential tool for nursing moms who are on the go.

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithAugust 9, 2023eleven, motherhoodComment

23 Goals for 2023 Midyear Check-In

At the beginning of this year, I wrote a blog post titled "23 for 2023" where I shared my 23 goals for the year. I firmly believe in the power of goal setting as a means of self-improvement, and I am excited to provide you with a midyear check-in on my progress. Remember, research shows that writing down your goals increases the likelihood of achieving them. So, let's dive in and see how far I've come!

Professional Financial, Lifestyle & Travel, MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithJuly 19, 2023eleven, goals, goal settingComment