Happy Fridayyyyy friends! This week has freaking flown, and now we're at the end of May and before we know it, June will be here! And then guys before we know it, it'll be July and I'll be having my second kid. Holy crap. Can you tell where my head has been at lately? Absolutely spinning. Time is moving at both the fastest rate and yet so slow... but then again, I digress.
Let's chat Keebos. I'm super pumped about this product today. I had never heard of Keebos before but when I saw it helps keeps you hands free, and it was cute, I was hooked. Quarantine has Quinnie and I going on a LOT of walks, like a LOT. It's how we get out of the house. We just started doing what we call "walk-walks" where Quinnie doesn't sit in a stroller but instead she walks herself! It never fails, within 10 minutes, she wants to be held. Well, what is a pregnant mom to do with her huge baby bump, cell phone, and now a 30 pound toddler in her hands. Que, Keebos.
This sweet little crossbody phone holder is the perfect solution. It's super cute, durable, and so light. Guys, it's a cute phone case with a strap. Oh, and did I mention Eva Longoria loves it too!
Plus, they are a company who is focused on doing good. For each Keebos purchased, they help plant a tree through their partner organization One Tree Planted. A 501 (C)(3) Non-Profit Organization. They strongly believe that individuals and businesses can do their part to help protect and preserve the environment. With their One-for-One program they aim to do their part to protect the planet.
With our support for reforestation, they can accomplish six significant environmental impacts:
You can shop all the products here!
And stalk them on Instagram here!
Episode 56: Sandra Grahame Founder of Smart Cookies, Budgeting, Financing, and Saving Money post COVID-19
May 26, 2020
On episode 56, Kristen and Whitney chat everything money with Sandra Grahame the Founder of Smart Cookies. Sandra has been featured on Oprah, The New York Times, The Today Show, CNN, and more! Her story is amazing starting with her & her girlfriends creating a money club and collectively paying off over $50,000 in debt in 1 year-- and then they end up on Oprah to share their story. Sandra and SmartCookies.com has programs, resources, and all their books on how we can all be smarter with our money post COVID-19.
Sandra’s Mentions During the Episode:
https://www.acorns.com/
https://www.chime.com/
https://www.simple.com/
Follow Sandra on Instagram
Visit SmartCookies.com
Follow along with @tglpodcast on Instagram
Get social using #tgltuesdays & don't forget to stalk your hosts: @kgrace01 and @positivelyposie
Listen to this episode here:
Sandra’s Mentions During the Episode:
https://www.acorns.com/
https://www.chime.com/
https://www.simple.com/
Follow Sandra on Instagram
Visit SmartCookies.com
Follow along with @tglpodcast on Instagram
Get social using #tgltuesdays & don't forget to stalk your hosts: @kgrace01 and @positivelyposie
Listen to this episode here:
Happy Friday friends! How the heck was your week? If yours was anything like ours, we are very glad Memorial Day weekend is here! (Even if we don't have vacay plans!). My in-laws are in town and we plan on spending the weekend together, just hanging around, making dinners, etc. I can't wait. It is so nice to have family in town. We've been totally quarantining so we haven't seen anyone in months. This is a perfect little weekend for some mental health :)
In the spirit of what is normally a beach or lake weekend, I have to tell you about these towels. Guys - they are pure magic. They are known as the sand-free beach towel. They are super absorbent, come in an extra large size, and have the cutest patterns. Because Denver weather has been so nice and warm, we've been spending extra time outside lately.
THE BENEFITS:
In the spirit of what is normally a beach or lake weekend, I have to tell you about these towels. Guys - they are pure magic. They are known as the sand-free beach towel. They are super absorbent, come in an extra large size, and have the cutest patterns. Because Denver weather has been so nice and warm, we've been spending extra time outside lately.
Tesalate beach towels use cutting-edge textile technology, and created their exclusive AbsorbLite™ fabric to bring you a towel that’s simply smarter than the rest. Their exclusive AbsorbLite™ fabric has been specifically engineered to create a towel that makes your beach days more awesome than before.We use this for under Quinn's water table, picnics on the grass, or just as a beach towel when she gets out of the pool. I wish you could feel the softness through this picture - the texture is unlike anything I've ever felt. It's not like your usual beach towel that pills after a while, or gets scratchy. It's super soft.
- Sand free. Leave the beach at the beach.
- Full sized beach towel: 160cm x 80cm / 63 x 31 inches.
- Ultra absorbent; over 1 litre of water.
- Rapid-drying. Half the time of a regular beach towel.
- Compact when rolled. Fits in your bag.
On Episode 55, Kristen and Whitney sit down with Dr. Amy Killen and chat all things sex. We dive in to optimizing our sexual health, sex and pregnancy, the benefits of sex, stress and its affect on sex, and Dr. Killen answers a lot of listener questions! Dr. Killen is an expert in all things sexual health and makes this often taboo subject approachable, fun, and real.
We are breaking the stigma that often surrounds the topic of sex! We hope you join us and learn a little bit more about sex! Let's talk about it!
We are breaking the stigma that often surrounds the topic of sex! We hope you join us and learn a little bit more about sex! Let's talk about it!
- Connect with Dr. Amy Killen on Instagram:
- Follow along with @tglpodcast on Instagram:
- Get social using #tgltuesdays & don't forget to stalk your hosts: @kgrace01 and @positivelyposie
Listen to this episode here:
One thing that has kept me a little more sane in quarantine is keeping with our routines. It's super easy to stay in jammies, never get out of bed, and just be lazy all day. Trying to balance work, Quinnie and my familys' sanity has required a lot more structure than I was initially prepared for.
It's taken us 8 1/2 weeks to find some version of a routine, but I think we're starting to figure it out a little bit. I've been working to create a routine in the morning that helps us set our day up a little better. My goal is that by creating to and sticking with a routine, it will make for a less stressful day.
Yesterday on This Girl Life, Whitney and I both broke down our morning routines and what helps us both set our days out on the right foot. Make sure to listen to our episode here! Whitney and I both shared our routines, and they are both different! You can read Whitney's post here on her blog, Positively Posie!
The best part about morning routines, is we each get to set our own for what we are looking for. For me, it's adding a little peace to my day. For some, it might be helping to accomplish a goal, reach a dream, plan for the future. Figure out you why, and I promise your routine will click. It will also make it easier to stick too.
Here's a little insight to what our mornings look like. Keep in mind, I'm a human, so my best intentions often go awry, but I think it's making a point to try to keep to this as much as I can.
1. 15 minutes of quiet. Listen, I am not one of those people that can wake up at 5:30am to sit and read with my coffee in the silence of my house. I require my sleep more than my quiet time.
But I have made it a point to try and sit for 15 minutes, because at this point in life, that is what I can manage. I'm currently working through She Reads Truth, The Romans study guide. What I love about this devotional is that each day they lay out 3 verses with room for notes. It allows me to sit, spend time in God's word, write out my prayer requests, write out my thoughts for the day, etc. Starting my day in God's word and with intentional prayer has been a game changer for me.
2. Do one thing for you. So often the morning starts and holy crap, I'm racing like a crazy person until I go to bed a night. Doing one thing for me in the AM, can be as simple enjoying my coffee, taking a quick shower, doing 15 minute yoga. As moms and wives, we are always doing something for someone else. We are constantly filling up other people's cups. And this one is about a small thing for YOU. And keep in mind, I'm not talking HUGE things, sometimes it can be as easy as a little extra creamer in your coffee.
3. Make Your Bed. I thank my mom for this part of my routine. I have been making my bed for as long as I can remember. For me, making my bed starts my day. It cleans up my room, makes things tidy, and is the official start to my day!
Naval Adm. William McRaven, ninth commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, said the following about making your bed in his commencement address at the University of Texas at Austin:
So, I stretch. I sit on my floor, while Quinnie sits with me and I stretch and holy moly guys, it helps so so much. I usually take about 10 minutes and it has helped tremendously with my pregnant aches and pains. Plus, as Whitney told me, there is some science behind moving your first thing in the morning and getting that blood flow to your muscles. Perk!
Listen to our TGL Episode here!
It's taken us 8 1/2 weeks to find some version of a routine, but I think we're starting to figure it out a little bit. I've been working to create a routine in the morning that helps us set our day up a little better. My goal is that by creating to and sticking with a routine, it will make for a less stressful day.
Yesterday on This Girl Life, Whitney and I both broke down our morning routines and what helps us both set our days out on the right foot. Make sure to listen to our episode here! Whitney and I both shared our routines, and they are both different! You can read Whitney's post here on her blog, Positively Posie!
The best part about morning routines, is we each get to set our own for what we are looking for. For me, it's adding a little peace to my day. For some, it might be helping to accomplish a goal, reach a dream, plan for the future. Figure out you why, and I promise your routine will click. It will also make it easier to stick too.
Here's a little insight to what our mornings look like. Keep in mind, I'm a human, so my best intentions often go awry, but I think it's making a point to try to keep to this as much as I can.
1. 15 minutes of quiet. Listen, I am not one of those people that can wake up at 5:30am to sit and read with my coffee in the silence of my house. I require my sleep more than my quiet time.
But I have made it a point to try and sit for 15 minutes, because at this point in life, that is what I can manage. I'm currently working through She Reads Truth, The Romans study guide. What I love about this devotional is that each day they lay out 3 verses with room for notes. It allows me to sit, spend time in God's word, write out my prayer requests, write out my thoughts for the day, etc. Starting my day in God's word and with intentional prayer has been a game changer for me.
2. Do one thing for you. So often the morning starts and holy crap, I'm racing like a crazy person until I go to bed a night. Doing one thing for me in the AM, can be as simple enjoying my coffee, taking a quick shower, doing 15 minute yoga. As moms and wives, we are always doing something for someone else. We are constantly filling up other people's cups. And this one is about a small thing for YOU. And keep in mind, I'm not talking HUGE things, sometimes it can be as easy as a little extra creamer in your coffee.
3. Make Your Bed. I thank my mom for this part of my routine. I have been making my bed for as long as I can remember. For me, making my bed starts my day. It cleans up my room, makes things tidy, and is the official start to my day!
Naval Adm. William McRaven, ninth commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, said the following about making your bed in his commencement address at the University of Texas at Austin:
If you make your bed every morning you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride and it will encourage you to do another task and another and another.
By the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many tasks completed. Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter.
If you can’t do the little things right, you will never do the big things right.
And, if by chance you have a miserable day, you will come home to a bed that is made—that you made—and a made bed gives you encouragement that tomorrow will be better.4. Stretch. This has become part of my morning just since I got pregnant, so it's new! But it's incredible. My body is freaking sore these days and even a "good night" sleep has me waking up feeling like a 140 year old woman.
If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.
So, I stretch. I sit on my floor, while Quinnie sits with me and I stretch and holy moly guys, it helps so so much. I usually take about 10 minutes and it has helped tremendously with my pregnant aches and pains. Plus, as Whitney told me, there is some science behind moving your first thing in the morning and getting that blood flow to your muscles. Perk!
Listen to our TGL Episode here!
- Follow along with @tglpodcast on Instagram
- Get social using #tgltuesdays
- & don't forget to stalk your hosts: @kgrace01 and @positivelyposie
- Read Whitney's post here!
On Episode 54, Whitney and Kristen share their tips to creating a mindful morning routine. They each share the four things they do every morning to create space for themselves, and find peace in the morning. We believe starting the morning on the right foot sets the tone for the rest of the day!
We share our favorite apps, devotionals, and tips to create your own morning routine! Make TGL a part of your morning routine, grab a cup of coffee, and hang out with your best girls.
We share our favorite apps, devotionals, and tips to create your own morning routine! Make TGL a part of your morning routine, grab a cup of coffee, and hang out with your best girls.
- Follow along with @tglpodcast
- Get social using #tgltuesdays
- Stalk your hosts: @kgrace01 and @positivelyposie
Whitney's Four Tips: Read more on Positively Posie
- Flush your system
- Morning pep talk
- Journal Detox or a BIG brain dump
- Breakfast without technology
Kristen's Four Tips: Read more on The Everyday Grace
- 15 minutes of quiet
- Do one thing for you
- Make Your Bed
- Morning stretch
Listen to this episode here:
This weekend was a weekend full of celebrations. From our 5-year wedding anniversary to Mother's Day, Adam was nothing short of a party planner (as much as he could be in quarantine). He started the celebrations first thing Saturday morning and continued them until last night. He spoke sweetly, we reminisced over our wedding, and he made me breakfast in bed. Husband of the year.
Even with all his spoiling, I couldn't help but feel sad throughout the day on Saturday. I couldn't pull myself away from the thoughts of "what we should be doing if it weren't for the fucking coronavirus." Please excuse my french, I was pissed and disappointed.
All I wanted was to be in Vail with Adam and Quinn celebrating five years. Five years is a big freaking deal and I wanted to celebrate for real! I wanted to go out to dinner at Mountain Standard, like we have every year since we got married. I wanted to stay at the Four Seasons, like every year and celebrate our marriage. Five years is a huge deal, and I wanted it to feel like a huge deal. I wanted it to feel like more than a typical quarantine Saturday.
Guys, I threw myself a full blown pity party on my freaking five year wedding anniversary.
I let the fucking coronavirus steal my joy.
I couldn't see what was right in front of me. I couldn't see my husband and babe sitting right in front of me. I couldn't see that everything we vowed to each other five years ago was literally staring me straight in the face.
And then, my superhero husband reminded me.
He stood in front of me and reminded me that everything we dreamed up over the last ten years and promised to each other five years ago, we have, right now. He reminded me that our bond and our connection is even better today then it was when we got married, and to just imagine how strong it will be in another five. He reminded me through sickness and in health, we're here, and we're healthy, and we're together. He told me how much he loves me. He told me that even though our plans are not ours, they are better, because we're here.
He pulled me out of my coronavirus funk.
I am grateful. I started out the weekend sad that the way I pictured this weekend was not how it was going. But, my husband is a dreamboat and continues to offer further proof that God knows better than anyone because he placed Adam, my joy, in my life.
Even with all his spoiling, I couldn't help but feel sad throughout the day on Saturday. I couldn't pull myself away from the thoughts of "what we should be doing if it weren't for the fucking coronavirus." Please excuse my french, I was pissed and disappointed.
All I wanted was to be in Vail with Adam and Quinn celebrating five years. Five years is a big freaking deal and I wanted to celebrate for real! I wanted to go out to dinner at Mountain Standard, like we have every year since we got married. I wanted to stay at the Four Seasons, like every year and celebrate our marriage. Five years is a huge deal, and I wanted it to feel like a huge deal. I wanted it to feel like more than a typical quarantine Saturday.
Guys, I threw myself a full blown pity party on my freaking five year wedding anniversary.
I let the fucking coronavirus steal my joy.
I couldn't see what was right in front of me. I couldn't see my husband and babe sitting right in front of me. I couldn't see that everything we vowed to each other five years ago was literally staring me straight in the face.
And then, my superhero husband reminded me.
He stood in front of me and reminded me that everything we dreamed up over the last ten years and promised to each other five years ago, we have, right now. He reminded me that our bond and our connection is even better today then it was when we got married, and to just imagine how strong it will be in another five. He reminded me through sickness and in health, we're here, and we're healthy, and we're together. He told me how much he loves me. He told me that even though our plans are not ours, they are better, because we're here.
He pulled me out of my coronavirus funk.
I am grateful. I started out the weekend sad that the way I pictured this weekend was not how it was going. But, my husband is a dreamboat and continues to offer further proof that God knows better than anyone because he placed Adam, my joy, in my life.
I am grateful Adam sees our big picture.
I am grateful Adam picks me up when I can't get out of my own head.
I am grateful Adam loves me despite my crazy.
I am grateful Adam can pull me out of my funk.
I am grateful.
I hope if you've ever felt like coronavirus or any of this craziness has stolen your joy that IT IS OKAY. We are all working through how to deal with this change. We are all figuring out how to handle cancelled graduation parties, anniversaries, date nights, mother's day, father's day, cancelled vacations, etc. But I hope you have someone in your life to remind you of the joy. If not, let me be that person. It's okay to have joy and pain, it's okay to not know how to experience joy in this and vice versa. It's okay to feel all the feelings.
To my Quinn - Thank you for making me a mom. Thank you for giving me the greatest joy this world has to offer. You are truly my angel baby, my rainbow baby, my blessing. You make my world and my day brighter, your laugh is literally my favorite sound, and when you say Mama, I'm pretty sure my heart breaks. You have fulfilled something in me that I didn't know I was missing. You're the best thing I've ever done. I hope you always know how loved you are, how prayed for you are, and how cherished you are. I promise to always be here for you, love you, and give you advice like my mom still gives me. Like I tell you every night before bed, you're my sweetest baby and I love you the very most.
To my mama - Thank you for being the lady I call every day with every question imaginable. Thank you for letting me tell you random stories and acting interested even if you aren't. Thank you for teaching me how to cook steak, chicken, and eggs. Thank you for helping me decorate every house I've ever lived in. Thank you for coaching me through this mom thing, for being patient, for being kind, and for being you. You have taught me so much about how to be the best mom just by watching you with us kids, especially Erin. The grace you have on a daily basis is astounding. I'm so lucky you are my mom. I literally couldn't imagine my life without you in it every day. I love you mama.
To my mother-in-law - Thank you for welcoming me into your family so seamlessly. Thank you for raising a son, I am so proud to call my husband and father of my kid(s!). Thank you for being a sounding board for all my questions, loving my baby, and never letting me feel like an outsider. Thank you for your kindness, your grace, and your love. I absolutely won the mother-in-law jackpot with you Jane, and I thank God for you everyday day.
To all the mamas - oh my gosh, mamas, you deserve to be praised every single day. If quarantine has taught me anything it's that moms work way harder than anyone, and deserve to be celebrated every day. Mamas - you are strong, you are resilient, you are a goddess, the lover of your family, and the backbone of your family. Being a mom is hard work because it's work we all want to do so desperately, loving our family, but it's hard at the same time! It's a job that never ends, because even when the kids go to sleep, you're planning for more, all while continuing to worry about their safety. It's a never-ending job, but it's the very best job. I hope today your family celebrates you extra and you feel all the love.
To all the mama's out there yearning to be mamas - I want you to know I'm praying for you and for all your future babies. Just because you don't have a baby currently in your hands, doesn't mean you aren't a mama yet. I'm pretty sure, being a mom is something that starts in your heart. I am praying for you. I am praying the desires of your heart become a reality sooner than later. I am praying you know you are loved. God has this amazing plan for you and for your family. While it may be hard to see His plan or the way it's going to work in your life, I pray you feel peace today. And for the day you see the positive pregnancy test line, or you're holding your baby, I will be celebrating you the most. I will be screaming from the mountain top. You are loved, mama.
To all the people who have lost their mamas - I cannot imagine the pain you feel not having your mom in your life. Today, I'm sending you all my love and my hugs. I'm praying you feel your mom today and know she's watching over you, as all moms do. Your mom loves you, too.
To all the moms, in whatever form that may be for you or look like for you - I hope you feel loved and celebrated today. You are incredible. You are loved. You are tough. You are a mama.
Happy Mother's Day, friends!
Dear Adam,
Happy 5 years, FIVE YEARS! Doesn’t that feel like a big deal?
Like 2 kids in 2 years big deal?
Like surviving a global pandemic together, big deal!
Like being quarantined for over 7 weeks alone together, big deal!
Little Adam and Kristen had no idea what year five of marriage would look like when we walked down the aisle together 5 years ago today. But I also don’t think we imagined it could be this sweet.
I don’t think I quite envisioned that I could love someone so deeply, so honestly, and so truly. I didn’t know that kind of love even existed. You have shown me that real love, the kind we work for every day, is the purest form of love known to man.
The love you show me every day is the kind where you show up daily. You pour into me and to our family. You give me grace, and joy, and a steadfastness that has helped us both be our best selves.
Adam, you are every bit the man I dreamed up all those years ago as a little girl in my room, and so much more. You’re kind, slow to anger (God knew I needed this trait in a spouse because I can be a little devil), hilarious, kind, warm, calm, wise, sweet, the best dad, insanely handsome, and so loving.
I am so blessed to have spent the last 5 years calling you my husband. I am so proud to be yours.
This life we have built together is nothing short of amazing and honestly Adam, the next 5 are only going to get better. I can't wait for our adventures and travels, life experiences, and for all those little in-between moments that add up to the big ones.
Thank you for keeping me sane in all this coronavirus madness.
Thank you for indulging my Oreganos craving because you know that being pregnant in quarantine is hard.
Thank you for making me mocktails every weekend so we can pretend like we're both drinking together.
Thank you for encouraging my dreams, listening to my vent sessions, and always making me feel heard.
Thank you for loving Quinn with a love so fierce.
Thank you for talking me off a ledge when we found out we were pregnant, again!
Thank you for being you.
Thank you for being mine. Thank you for choosing me every day.
I love today more than I did 5 years ago, and I didn’t know that was possible. Happy Anniversary my love, you're my greatest adventure.
Happy 5 years, FIVE YEARS! Doesn’t that feel like a big deal?
Like 2 kids in 2 years big deal?
Like surviving a global pandemic together, big deal!
Like being quarantined for over 7 weeks alone together, big deal!
Little Adam and Kristen had no idea what year five of marriage would look like when we walked down the aisle together 5 years ago today. But I also don’t think we imagined it could be this sweet.
I don’t think I quite envisioned that I could love someone so deeply, so honestly, and so truly. I didn’t know that kind of love even existed. You have shown me that real love, the kind we work for every day, is the purest form of love known to man.
The love you show me every day is the kind where you show up daily. You pour into me and to our family. You give me grace, and joy, and a steadfastness that has helped us both be our best selves.
Adam, you are every bit the man I dreamed up all those years ago as a little girl in my room, and so much more. You’re kind, slow to anger (God knew I needed this trait in a spouse because I can be a little devil), hilarious, kind, warm, calm, wise, sweet, the best dad, insanely handsome, and so loving.
I am so blessed to have spent the last 5 years calling you my husband. I am so proud to be yours.
This life we have built together is nothing short of amazing and honestly Adam, the next 5 are only going to get better. I can't wait for our adventures and travels, life experiences, and for all those little in-between moments that add up to the big ones.
Thank you for keeping me sane in all this coronavirus madness.
Thank you for indulging my Oreganos craving because you know that being pregnant in quarantine is hard.
Thank you for making me mocktails every weekend so we can pretend like we're both drinking together.
Thank you for encouraging my dreams, listening to my vent sessions, and always making me feel heard.
Thank you for loving Quinn with a love so fierce.
Thank you for talking me off a ledge when we found out we were pregnant, again!
Thank you for being you.
Thank you for being mine. Thank you for choosing me every day.
I love today more than I did 5 years ago, and I didn’t know that was possible. Happy Anniversary my love, you're my greatest adventure.
Happy Friday friends! Or now a days, I feel like I should be congratulating you on finishing another week of quarantine. Happy end of week 8, we made it! This week was another week of the same, but this weekend is such a special one. Tomorrow, Adam and I celebrate FIVE years of wedded bliss :) and then Sunday is Mother's Day! (Here's your reminder if you forgot!).
I'll be the first to admit that sometimes when I thought about this weekend and the plans we originally had, I get a little sad that we're stuck in quarantine. We were supposed to be in the mountains celebrating our anniversary and mother's day. We were going to eat at our favorite restaurants, shop at our favorite stores, and show Quinnie all over Vail.
But yes, we'll be at home yet still celebrating these amazing anniversaries! Even though we don't get to be where we want to celebrate, we get to get together and that's the most important.
But hey, enough about that. Today we're doing 50 questions to ask and answer. I saw Kallie do this and I loved it. I always love getting to know bloggers more, so I figured, let's do it! Ps. If you want even more introductions - you can read them all here!
1. What are your nicknames? What do you prefer to be called?
I prefer to be called Kristen or mama, but my nicknames are K, Kris, Kristiana (only Adam calls me this!)
I'll be the first to admit that sometimes when I thought about this weekend and the plans we originally had, I get a little sad that we're stuck in quarantine. We were supposed to be in the mountains celebrating our anniversary and mother's day. We were going to eat at our favorite restaurants, shop at our favorite stores, and show Quinnie all over Vail.
But yes, we'll be at home yet still celebrating these amazing anniversaries! Even though we don't get to be where we want to celebrate, we get to get together and that's the most important.
But hey, enough about that. Today we're doing 50 questions to ask and answer. I saw Kallie do this and I loved it. I always love getting to know bloggers more, so I figured, let's do it! Ps. If you want even more introductions - you can read them all here!
1. What are your nicknames? What do you prefer to be called?
I prefer to be called Kristen or mama, but my nicknames are K, Kris, Kristiana (only Adam calls me this!)
2. What books on your shelf are begging to be read?
Currently dying to read The Atomic City Girls. I can't stop reading books set in WW2, so if you have any recommendations, please let me know!
Currently dying to read The Atomic City Girls. I can't stop reading books set in WW2, so if you have any recommendations, please let me know!
3. How often do you doodle? What do your doodles look like?
I don't even know what this means. I don't have time to doodle, haha. And I'm a terrible drawer.
I don't even know what this means. I don't have time to doodle, haha. And I'm a terrible drawer.
4. What do you do if you can’t sleep at night? Do you count sheep? Toss and Turn? Try to get up and do something productive?
Currently, pregnancy insomnia is hitting me so freaking hard. Usually I try to lay in bed and figure it out. Sometimes I grab my kindle and read, most of the time I grab my phone, and scroll.
5. How many days could you last in solitary confinement? How would you do it?
HA! This question seems timely. While I am not in solitary confinement, I'm in quarantine with my sweet hubs and baby. We're going on 56 days, so 56 days.
Currently, pregnancy insomnia is hitting me so freaking hard. Usually I try to lay in bed and figure it out. Sometimes I grab my kindle and read, most of the time I grab my phone, and scroll.
5. How many days could you last in solitary confinement? How would you do it?
HA! This question seems timely. While I am not in solitary confinement, I'm in quarantine with my sweet hubs and baby. We're going on 56 days, so 56 days.
6. Do you save old greeting cards and letters? Throw them away?
I keep every card ever given to me. I have a box for letters from Adam and I have a box for all other letters. They are my favorite keepsake.
I keep every card ever given to me. I have a box for letters from Adam and I have a box for all other letters. They are my favorite keepsake.
7. Who is the biggest pack rat you know?
Does my answer in #6, mean me?
Does my answer in #6, mean me?
8. When making an entrance in to a party, do you make your presence known? Do you slip in and look for someone you know? Do you sneak in quietly and find a safe spot to roost?
If I'm at a party where I am comfortable, I kind of love to make a scene and get excited for seeing everyone I know and love.
9. What is your strongest sense? If you had to give one up, which would it be?
Strongest sense? Well I'm pregnant, so I'm going with smell. Man alive, I can smell anything, and I mean anything.
12. What is one guilty pleasure you enjoy too much to give up?
Oh yikes, just one? TV, wine (when I'm not pregnant, obvs), scrolling Instagram, but TV.
13. Who performs the most random acts of kindness out of everyone you know?
I don’t know lol
14. How often do you read the newspaper? Which paper? Which sections?
Yikes, I don't. I read magazines and books!
15. Which animals scare you most? Why?
Skunks, because of the great skunk attack of 2019. If you didn't know, Lola got skunked last April and I brought her through the house to the garage. Our entire house smelled so bad for weeks and weeks. I had to get the carpets professionally cleaned, I had every fabric laundered and Lola was practically shaved naked. It was seriously one of the worst things ever.
16. Are you more likely to avoid conflict or engage it head-on?
I'm an enneagram 9, I hate conflict. I'm trying to be more bold in my relationships and speak my emotions and thoughts better, but I hate it.
17. What was the most recent compliment you’ve received and savored?
I recently posted a picture on Instagram and my gf Abbeigh commented this and it made me cry. It was just what I needed to hear and the sweetest message.
If I'm at a party where I am comfortable, I kind of love to make a scene and get excited for seeing everyone I know and love.
9. What is your strongest sense? If you had to give one up, which would it be?
Strongest sense? Well I'm pregnant, so I'm going with smell. Man alive, I can smell anything, and I mean anything.
10. How many times a day do you look at yourself in the mirror?
Yikes, too many. Plus I take way too many pictures.
11. What is the strangest thing you believed as a child?
That I was adopted, I blame Tom, my brother.
That I was adopted, I blame Tom, my brother.
Oh yikes, just one? TV, wine (when I'm not pregnant, obvs), scrolling Instagram, but TV.
13. Who performs the most random acts of kindness out of everyone you know?
I don’t know lol
14. How often do you read the newspaper? Which paper? Which sections?
Yikes, I don't. I read magazines and books!
15. Which animals scare you most? Why?
Skunks, because of the great skunk attack of 2019. If you didn't know, Lola got skunked last April and I brought her through the house to the garage. Our entire house smelled so bad for weeks and weeks. I had to get the carpets professionally cleaned, I had every fabric laundered and Lola was practically shaved naked. It was seriously one of the worst things ever.
16. Are you more likely to avoid conflict or engage it head-on?
I'm an enneagram 9, I hate conflict. I'm trying to be more bold in my relationships and speak my emotions and thoughts better, but I hate it.
17. What was the most recent compliment you’ve received and savored?
I recently posted a picture on Instagram and my gf Abbeigh commented this and it made me cry. It was just what I needed to hear and the sweetest message.
"I don’t doubt for a second that you’ll take this transition with so much love and grace. you’re a great mama, kristen! these two girls are surely blessed to have you!"
18. What is something about yourself that you hope will change, but probably never will?
I am passive aggressive. It's something I constantly am working on and I think I am better at it, but I don't think its something that I will ever totally get rid of.
I am passive aggressive. It's something I constantly am working on and I think I am better at it, but I don't think its something that I will ever totally get rid of.
19. Are you a creature of habit? Explain.
Very much so. I rely heavily on my routine and knowing what is coming. That's honestly the reason quarantine has been so hard for me.
Very much so. I rely heavily on my routine and knowing what is coming. That's honestly the reason quarantine has been so hard for me.
20. Are you high maintenance? Explain.
100%. Adam knew this the second he met me and has never tried to change that.
100%. Adam knew this the second he met me and has never tried to change that.
21. When was the last time you really pushed yourself to your physical limits?
I think being pregnant with my second is really pushing my body.
22. Do you have a whole lot of acquaintances or just a few very close friends? Why?
Both? I have a lot of girlfriends. I love my girl friendships and find a lot of joy and pride in those relationships. I work very hard at my friendships because having a group of girlfriends is very important to me and to my sanity. That being said, I have 5 very very close girlfriends, who I would say know me the best. And 1 who pretty much knows all my depths.
23. Are you more inclined to “build your own empire” or unleash the potential of others?
I tend to say unleash the potential of others. I like the idea of being my own boss, but honestly I feel more comfortable building others up. I love being a support system to people. Unless you mean my own empire being my house.
I think being pregnant with my second is really pushing my body.
22. Do you have a whole lot of acquaintances or just a few very close friends? Why?
Both? I have a lot of girlfriends. I love my girl friendships and find a lot of joy and pride in those relationships. I work very hard at my friendships because having a group of girlfriends is very important to me and to my sanity. That being said, I have 5 very very close girlfriends, who I would say know me the best. And 1 who pretty much knows all my depths.
23. Are you more inclined to “build your own empire” or unleash the potential of others?
I tend to say unleash the potential of others. I like the idea of being my own boss, but honestly I feel more comfortable building others up. I love being a support system to people. Unless you mean my own empire being my house.
24. What’s a strange occurrence you’ve experienced but have never (or rarely) shared with anyone?
Pass?
25. What do you think about more than anything else?
My Quinnie and Adam.
26. What’s something that amazes you? This is going to sound bad, but let me explain. It amazes me how much I love being a mom. I always knew I wanted to be a mom, but I had no idea how much it would light my soul on fire. Every day I see my baby in the morning, I am re-lite up and I can't handle my intense, intense love for her and for my role as her mom.
27. Do you prefer that people shoot straight with you or temper their words? Why?
I tend to say temper their words, because I hate confrontation. But I also want to know the truth and if I hurt you. I don't like playing around with feelings.
28. Where’s your favorite place to take an out-of-town guest?
Out to dinner :)
29. What’s one thing you’d rather pay someone to do than do yourself? Why?
Clean my house.
30. Do you have a catchphrase?
Holy moly, man alive, sheesh.
31. What’s your reaction towards people who are outspoken about their beliefs? What conditions cause you to dislike or, conversely, enjoy talking with them?
Good for them! I think public outcries of religion and politics are v weird on facebook and places like that, but for the most part, I don't really care. I just scroll.
32. How and where do you prefer to study?
I don’t study anymore (Thank the lord).
33. What position do you sleep in?
When I'm not pregnant, flat on my stomach. Pregnant, on my side.
34. What’s your all-time favorite town or city? Why?
Scottsdale, it's where I grew up and where my best friends and family lives. Butttttt - if not for my hometown, South Lake Tahoe, or Florence, Italy.
35. What are the top three qualities that draw you to someone new?
Kindness, sense of humor, and calmness.
36. How has your birth order/characteristics of siblings affected you?
I'm the youngest, enough said.
37. If you could eliminate one weakness or limitation in your life, what would it be?
Limitation? The power to fly? Haha. Then I could go anywhere, anytime.
38. If you could restore one broken relationship, which would it be?
A girlfriend I had my sophomore and junior year of college. We had a falling out my junior year and I still think about her.
39. If you had to change your first name, what would you change it to?
At this point in my life, I wouldn't. When I was younger and used to play, I always pretended my name was McKenzie and wanted my nickname to be Mac.
40. Do you believe ignorance is bliss? Why or why not?
In certain situations, yes. But not if it's lying, deception, or something that could actually hurt someone.
41. What do you consider unforgivable?
Probably nothing.
42. Have you forgiven yourself for past personal failures? Why or why not?
I think so? But I do dwell on things, so subconsciously, I probably haven't fully.
43. How difficult is it for you to forgive someone who refuses to apologize?
How can you do this?
44. Do you hold any convictions that you would be willing to die for?
My faith and my family.
45. To what extent do you trust people? Explain.
Pretty easily. This is probably both a good and a bad thing. But I like to think until I've been given a reason not too, I'm going to trust you. Being vulnerable is something that gives me life, so sharing with other people is how I get to know people the best.
46. In what area of your life are you immature?
Stupid jokes. Guys, sometimes Instagram memes have me rollling and Adam will look at me like I'm nuts but I can't stop laughing.
47. What was the best news you ever received?
Reading the pee stick that said -- Pregnant :)
48. How difficult is it for you to be honest, even when your words may be hurtful or unpopular?
Very hard. I don't do confrontation. See #16, #18, and #27.
49. When did you immediately click with someone you just met? Why? What was the long term result? Conversely, are you close with anyone now that you really disliked at first?
Well for one, Adam. We clicked immediately and made ourselves "official" 4 dates later. The long term result, 5 years of marriage :)
And yes, my two best friends, Coti and Whitney. Let's be totally honest, I was jealous of them both and "didn't like them." The long term result - we've been best friends for 20 years.
50. When do you find yourself singing?Pretty much everywhere. I'm really talented in the car, the shower, when singing to Quinnie, on walks, literally everywhere.
Okay, your turn! Go, tell me something good!
Pass?
25. What do you think about more than anything else?
My Quinnie and Adam.
26. What’s something that amazes you? This is going to sound bad, but let me explain. It amazes me how much I love being a mom. I always knew I wanted to be a mom, but I had no idea how much it would light my soul on fire. Every day I see my baby in the morning, I am re-lite up and I can't handle my intense, intense love for her and for my role as her mom.
27. Do you prefer that people shoot straight with you or temper their words? Why?
I tend to say temper their words, because I hate confrontation. But I also want to know the truth and if I hurt you. I don't like playing around with feelings.
28. Where’s your favorite place to take an out-of-town guest?
Out to dinner :)
29. What’s one thing you’d rather pay someone to do than do yourself? Why?
Clean my house.
30. Do you have a catchphrase?
Holy moly, man alive, sheesh.
31. What’s your reaction towards people who are outspoken about their beliefs? What conditions cause you to dislike or, conversely, enjoy talking with them?
Good for them! I think public outcries of religion and politics are v weird on facebook and places like that, but for the most part, I don't really care. I just scroll.
32. How and where do you prefer to study?
I don’t study anymore (Thank the lord).
33. What position do you sleep in?
When I'm not pregnant, flat on my stomach. Pregnant, on my side.
34. What’s your all-time favorite town or city? Why?
Scottsdale, it's where I grew up and where my best friends and family lives. Butttttt - if not for my hometown, South Lake Tahoe, or Florence, Italy.
35. What are the top three qualities that draw you to someone new?
Kindness, sense of humor, and calmness.
36. How has your birth order/characteristics of siblings affected you?
I'm the youngest, enough said.
37. If you could eliminate one weakness or limitation in your life, what would it be?
Limitation? The power to fly? Haha. Then I could go anywhere, anytime.
38. If you could restore one broken relationship, which would it be?
A girlfriend I had my sophomore and junior year of college. We had a falling out my junior year and I still think about her.
39. If you had to change your first name, what would you change it to?
At this point in my life, I wouldn't. When I was younger and used to play, I always pretended my name was McKenzie and wanted my nickname to be Mac.
40. Do you believe ignorance is bliss? Why or why not?
In certain situations, yes. But not if it's lying, deception, or something that could actually hurt someone.
41. What do you consider unforgivable?
Probably nothing.
42. Have you forgiven yourself for past personal failures? Why or why not?
I think so? But I do dwell on things, so subconsciously, I probably haven't fully.
43. How difficult is it for you to forgive someone who refuses to apologize?
How can you do this?
44. Do you hold any convictions that you would be willing to die for?
My faith and my family.
45. To what extent do you trust people? Explain.
Pretty easily. This is probably both a good and a bad thing. But I like to think until I've been given a reason not too, I'm going to trust you. Being vulnerable is something that gives me life, so sharing with other people is how I get to know people the best.
46. In what area of your life are you immature?
Stupid jokes. Guys, sometimes Instagram memes have me rollling and Adam will look at me like I'm nuts but I can't stop laughing.
47. What was the best news you ever received?
Reading the pee stick that said -- Pregnant :)
48. How difficult is it for you to be honest, even when your words may be hurtful or unpopular?
Very hard. I don't do confrontation. See #16, #18, and #27.
49. When did you immediately click with someone you just met? Why? What was the long term result? Conversely, are you close with anyone now that you really disliked at first?
Well for one, Adam. We clicked immediately and made ourselves "official" 4 dates later. The long term result, 5 years of marriage :)
And yes, my two best friends, Coti and Whitney. Let's be totally honest, I was jealous of them both and "didn't like them." The long term result - we've been best friends for 20 years.
50. When do you find yourself singing?Pretty much everywhere. I'm really talented in the car, the shower, when singing to Quinnie, on walks, literally everywhere.
Okay, your turn! Go, tell me something good!
I look huge
Omg I am so big
I am way bigger than last time
"So and so" is farther along than me and skinner
My boobs are huge
This fit last week
I look like I'm ready to burst
These are all things I've said to myself or Adam just in the last week.
I beat myself up over something so natural yet at times, feels so foreign. Pregnancy weight is something not many woman want to talk about out loud, but it's a conversation we have with ourselves every day, every time we look in the mirror, or every time we look down.
Let's talk weight gain.
It affects us all differently. I'm currently walking through pregnancy with a bunch of friends around me (like 9!!) and we are ALL handling weight different! We are all processing the change in our bellies, the change in our boobs, hips, and every where else different. And the beauty in that? We are all celebrating our bodies in the best way we know how for our own bodies.
Even as I celebrate my pregnant body, it's hard not to feel the weight of my ever changing bodies.
The other night I found myself changing in my closet for fear that Adam would see me full pregnant. If he knew I did this, he would reassure me, and tell me how beautiful I am. And even with him saying those sweet things, which God bless the man, he does every day, I still hear my self-conscious voice in my head. I still see my wider hips, huge boobs, stretching sides. I still feel like a stranger in my own body.
It's this incredibly interesting balance between my understanding that I'm gaining weight for the benefit of our sweet baby, while learning to love my body as it grows (and grows, and grows).
Total transparency here, most of the time I am comfortable gaining pregnancy weight. It's something I started mentally preparing myself for when we were trying for Quinn, and trust me, even with trying to prepare, I wasn't fully prepared. But, I knew the weight would come and I knew my healthy gain correlated in part to a healthy weight for my baby. That being said, it's not easy when you start the comparison game, or when something doesn't fit, or when you're standing buck naked in front of the mirror, unrecognizable.
A lot of times when I find myself going down the rabbit hole of negative thoughts, I can instantly correlate those feelings to the amount of time I've been on the 'gram, scrolling. Mindlessly scrolling through bloggers I don't even know who have teeny baby bumps and are still wearing their pre-pregnancy jeans.
What I'm learning about myself in this time, is I'm not always as self-confident as I hoped I was. What I'm trying to teach myself is that those feelings will come and those feelings will go, just like the weight of this pregnancy.
My goal is a healthy baby. My goal is to be healthy myself. At the end of the day, if I am confident that I am doing just that, the weight feels a lot less heavy.I'm literally sitting here, feeling this sweet baby kick as I type and it's in moments like this, the weight doesn't seem so extreme.
If I can do anything, I hope to encourage you. We all feel or have felt this way throughout our pregnancy. This is a huge change for all of us and it's okay to figure out your feelings about it on a daily basis. We're growing a baby for 10 months, and sometimes it takes 10 months to fully come to term with the changes our body goes through.
So today, instead of those negative thoughts about my body. I'm striving for these.
I am glowing
I am creating another human
I am protecting my baby
I am beautiful
I am strong
I am magic
I am strong
I am magic
I am pregnant
Being pregnant is a joy, but let's be real, not everything that comes with pregnancy feels like joy. Nausea being one of them. More than 50% of pregnant women will deal with nausea throughout their pregnancy.
With both of my pregnancies, I never threw up, god bless. But man alive, I was nauseas. Honestly, the smells made my nausea worse. So dang terrible. With Quinn, it started the second I peed on the pregnancy stick. With baby #2, it hit me hard around 6 weeks. My morning sickness actually presented itself around 5pm and lasted until I went to bed. I couldn't stomach anything, even food I was craving! My favorite pizza - sick. Chicken - even worse.
The bright light with morning sickness, it usually goes away when you hit your second trimester. For me. I really started noticing a difference around 13-16 weeks. For some, it will linger, and for the rare, it lasts your entire pregnancy. But have no fear, while you're dealing with it, there are some remedies!
1. Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Sometimes this sounds counterintuitive because eating/foods/smells sound terrible. But having an empty stomach actually makes it worse. Try small, meals throughout the day. Or have snacks - plain crackers, toast, cereal, or something bland. I literally had to eat the second I woke up or else I felt terrible. Don't be afraid to eat. It will help.
2. Try ginger. Ginger has been known to settle your stomach. Ginger tea, ginger chews, or ginger ale (my personal fav, extra, extra cold, with lots of ice). My best friend recommended these chews to me, and I loved them!
3. Try preggo pops! I never tried these, but my best friend said she used them. She said it helped a little, but it really helped get that nausea flavor out of her mouth! Another trick that we both used, sour candies!
4. Change up your prenatal vitamin (or the time you take them). A common thing you hear is that your prenatal vitamins can make you nauseas. There are so many options, feel free to switch it up! And, take it at night, on a full stomach. I take this prenatal, Whitney takes this one!
5. Take a walk. I know, walking when you are nauseas sounds kind of terrible, but fresh air and getting your body moving will really help. Exercise throughout your pregnancy will go in waves. Maybe during your first trimester, HIIT workouts won't be your friends, but nice walks will be.
6. Acupuncture. I never tried this, but I have heard that it works wonders!
7. Sleep. This is easier said than done, but sleep when your body tells you to sleep. Sleep extra a night, take naps if you can, sleep.
8. Stay hydrated! You're pregnant, you should already be drinking extra. But try drinking even more during the time your nausea hits. Add lemon. Warm it up. Add ice.
9. Talk to your doctor. If you can't keep food down, can't function, are throwing up all the time, have cramping, call your doctor. There are meds you can take to help you through this stage!
With both of my pregnancies, I never threw up, god bless. But man alive, I was nauseas. Honestly, the smells made my nausea worse. So dang terrible. With Quinn, it started the second I peed on the pregnancy stick. With baby #2, it hit me hard around 6 weeks. My morning sickness actually presented itself around 5pm and lasted until I went to bed. I couldn't stomach anything, even food I was craving! My favorite pizza - sick. Chicken - even worse.
The bright light with morning sickness, it usually goes away when you hit your second trimester. For me. I really started noticing a difference around 13-16 weeks. For some, it will linger, and for the rare, it lasts your entire pregnancy. But have no fear, while you're dealing with it, there are some remedies!
1. Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Sometimes this sounds counterintuitive because eating/foods/smells sound terrible. But having an empty stomach actually makes it worse. Try small, meals throughout the day. Or have snacks - plain crackers, toast, cereal, or something bland. I literally had to eat the second I woke up or else I felt terrible. Don't be afraid to eat. It will help.
2. Try ginger. Ginger has been known to settle your stomach. Ginger tea, ginger chews, or ginger ale (my personal fav, extra, extra cold, with lots of ice). My best friend recommended these chews to me, and I loved them!
3. Try preggo pops! I never tried these, but my best friend said she used them. She said it helped a little, but it really helped get that nausea flavor out of her mouth! Another trick that we both used, sour candies!
4. Change up your prenatal vitamin (or the time you take them). A common thing you hear is that your prenatal vitamins can make you nauseas. There are so many options, feel free to switch it up! And, take it at night, on a full stomach. I take this prenatal, Whitney takes this one!
5. Take a walk. I know, walking when you are nauseas sounds kind of terrible, but fresh air and getting your body moving will really help. Exercise throughout your pregnancy will go in waves. Maybe during your first trimester, HIIT workouts won't be your friends, but nice walks will be.
6. Acupuncture. I never tried this, but I have heard that it works wonders!
7. Sleep. This is easier said than done, but sleep when your body tells you to sleep. Sleep extra a night, take naps if you can, sleep.
8. Stay hydrated! You're pregnant, you should already be drinking extra. But try drinking even more during the time your nausea hits. Add lemon. Warm it up. Add ice.
9. Talk to your doctor. If you can't keep food down, can't function, are throwing up all the time, have cramping, call your doctor. There are meds you can take to help you through this stage!
When I sat down to pack my hospital bag last time, I had no freaking clue what 2 days in the hospital would look like. I didn't know that my shower would be the size of a dime and my bathroom would be more of a war zone than a peaceful spa.
I didn't realize that pants, regardless of how "comfy" they are, would never be comfortable. Delivery is messy, and therefore cute fuzzy slippers are NOT ideal. And, taking a 3 minute shower will actually be the best shower of your life.
I lived through delivery and a hospital stay, as will all of you, so hopefully I can help provide some clarity to your hospital bag packing dilemma.
Below you'll find a printable checklist to help you prepare!If you're like me, or Monica from Friends, you love a good CHECK!
FOR MOM //
FOR BABY //
Tell me, what did you put in your hospital bag? What is something you packed that you didn't use? Or wish you would have packed?
I didn't realize that pants, regardless of how "comfy" they are, would never be comfortable. Delivery is messy, and therefore cute fuzzy slippers are NOT ideal. And, taking a 3 minute shower will actually be the best shower of your life.
I lived through delivery and a hospital stay, as will all of you, so hopefully I can help provide some clarity to your hospital bag packing dilemma.
I kept this picture because this is my first criticism of my initial hospital bag.
Kristen, bring a freaking bag that ISN'T white and that zips, for heavens sake. I don't know how I thought bringing a cute (small) bag was a good idea. Next time I'm bringing this Longchamp bag because it has a shoulder strap, it zips, and it's nylon (aka I can wipe it down).
Below you'll find a printable checklist to help you prepare!If you're like me, or Monica from Friends, you love a good CHECK!
FOR MOM //
- Insurance Card: The non-fun part of going to a hospital. Make sure it's in your wallet, hospital bag or wherever you won't forget.
- Flip flops or sandals: I love the Arizona Birkenstocks because they are basically rubber so I can clean them, but SO comfortable. They are also adjustable and if you are like me, your feet were so swollen so being able to expand them and then tighten them was key.
- Pillow: I'm partial to my good pillow. This was key.
- Iphone charger and Cell phone: Duh. My gf told me to buy an extra long charger so you make sure it reaches your hospital bed. This was amazing for both during labor (theres a lot of waiting around okay) and then after! You're taking a lot of pictures, returning texts and calls, don't want your phone to die!
- Toiletries: These are the things you may not need but will make you feel better. I was very excited to take a shower once we got into our room. Quinn was asleep, I had just nursed her and I had like 15 minutes. It may seem a little vain, but I even threw on a little makeup. Those 15 minutes to myself made me feel so much better. I put on a new, clean PJ dress and robe, and it was magic. My toiletries were shampoo, conditioner, lotion, chapstick, hair ties(!), a little makeup, extra contacts, glasses, and my own towel.
- Robe: Have I told you how much I love robes yet? Sometimes, I would just have on those cute mesh panties and this robe. You're pulling your boob out a lot to nurse, okay. I just bought this super cute one from Milkmaid Goods and baby girl has a matching swaddle because CUTE!
- Undies: Last time I brought undies, you don't need to do that. You're in pads. But, if you want some for recovery at home, I love these. Cue, dark colored Hanes.
- Nursing Bra: I still wear these nursing bras. Even though I am not currently nursing. The nice thing is they have an expander so as your boobs get huge (which they will), it can grow with you. These bras are magic okay?
- Nursing cover: I have a bunch of 'cute' nursing covers but this one is the best. It's not the cutest, but it works so good.
- Going home outfit: Keep it comfy and loose (you'll be wearing a pad). Aka, a PJ dress and your sandals.
FOR BABY //
- Going home outfit: Baby girl has the cutest little onesie. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, but this will be the first time you take your baby home. I wanted it to be memorable.
- Carseat: Most hospitals will check your car seat before you leave to make sure it's perfect. I love my UPPA Baby carseat (and stroller).
- Onesies: I brought a few extra, but for the most part I kept her in her diaper and swaddle.
- Swaddle: I brought a matching one to me and just another muslin blanket. Honestly, I used the hospital blankets most of the time!
- Boppy: For breastfeeding! I actually sent my mom home to go get this!
- Pacifier: Just in case. But the hospital gave me newborn ones!
- Burp Cloths: I'm using this so I can bring them home to the dogs before we come home. I heard it helps with the transition.
Secret about this onesie - it was newborn size and Quinn was 8.8 pounds,
aka she did NOT fit in to newborn sizes - sooo, maybe bring multiple sizes!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Social Icons