Mommy Diaries – Page 3

3 Ways to Prepare Your Toddler For The New Baby

August 13, 2015

I was so worried about preparing Hampton to be a big brother before Sophie-Rae arrived. Looking back, it’s silly because I know now (and I really knew then) that it would take time and experience. However, I still tried to do a few things to prepare him as best I could. He was only 18 months old when she was born, so it was difficult to explain to him that a baby was coming and would be staying. He did get to where he would rub my stomach and say “baby,” but he didn’t fully understand until she was here.

Here are a few tips on how to prepare your toddler for the new baby:

Before the baby gets here:

Read them books about becoming a big brother/sister.

Talk to them about the baby often.

Let them help you set up the nursery and prepare for the baby.

Once the baby gets here:

Let them help with the baby by bringing you diapers/lotion etc.

Spend quality one-on-one time with them every chance you get.

Buy them a special older sibling gift.

Do you have any advice to add? How did you prepare your children for a new sibling?

A New Mother’s Formula For Happiness

July 24, 2015

This post is sponsored by Gerber® Good Start® Gentle but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Before we had our daughter, I was very nervous about going from one child to two. Their age difference intimidated me (18 months), but I was also feeling all the emotions. Hampton would no longer be my only child. He wouldn’t be my baby. It was so emotional for me because he WAS still a baby. Let me just tell you, it is tough trying to explain to your baby that you are having another baby. He just didn’t get it at all.

Everyone told me to try to relax and enjoy my time with him and that he would be the best big brother once he got used to it. It took about 8 weeks before Hampton really did well with SR. We still can’t leave them in a room together without one of us watching them, but it has gotten so much better.

The best piece of advice anyone gave me was to just relax and take it all in. Hold my baby girl. Play with my son as much as possible. Read to the both of them and enjoy every minute. I have definitely been trying to focus on my kids a lot more and take this advice. I’ve been enjoying the little moments. The ones that most people miss. Only because I was told to focus on that time more, and I have.

With Hampton, we lost a lot of sleep. He was my baby that didn’t sleep. At all. His doctor even shook her head at him. As a newborn he slept 6 or 7 hours in a 24 hour period. He just never slept. Luckily, SR has slept great! It has been like night and day, and for that, we are all thankful, rested and happy! After I had Hamp, I wish I had known about the Gerber Sleep Consultants and the free appointments they offer! That would have been so nice. Sleeping more this time around has made all the difference.

If I had any advice for a new mother, it would be to rest as much as you can, hold your baby as much as possible and soak up every moment. If you do this, you will have created the perfect #formulaforhappiness for you and your baby.

Photos by Allison Hilyer Photography

What is your Formula for Happiness?

How To Ask For Help

July 9, 2015

Can I be honest with you guys for a second? Being a mother of 2 babies is hard. I knew it would be difficult and I tried to prepare for it, but it is so much harder than I realized. I honestly don’t know how mothers of multiples do it. I am in awe of you and you need a hug. And a spa ~~day~~ week. Lately, I have felt very overwhelmed.

I have tried to be a really independent mother. I want to do everything myself and I hate hate HATE asking for help. I feel like my kids are my responsibility and I get so caught up in the mindset of having to take care of them by myself. I should have them all the time. I should be the one to feed them, clothe them, bathe them at night, take them to the park, teach them. I am their mother. I am the one supposed to be raising them.Funny thing happens when I think like this. God laughs at me. He says, “No, no, no, sweetheart. You need help. You can’t do it alone.”

I do need help, y’all.

A childhood friend of mine started a Mommy Play Group on Facebook (which is awesome) and we met a couple of weeks ago downtown at the splash pad. I was so excited! I just knew Hampton would love it. I mean, anything outside that involves water is right up his alley! Oh boy was I wrong.

I loaded the kids, Hamp in the stroller and SR in my ergo. I packed our lunches and we hiked down to the splash pad (because it is a hike when you are hauling 2 babies up a hill). I didn’t know I could sweat through jean shorts, but I can. In case you were wondering.

Once we made it, a train went right by the splash pad. Hamp spotted it right away. . He was so excited, but as soon as the train went away, he started pitching a fit. Then SR started screaming because it was time for her to eat. Hampton never would touch the water. He watched everyone else play and he continued to pitch fits, asking for the “choo choo.” I finally said “that’s it!” I loaded them back up and hiked back to the car with two screaming babies. I was so thankful to my friend who helped me push the stroller part of the way back. I didn’t ask, but she offered and didn’t even wait for a reply. She just helped me. It was so nice!

I was so tired, hot and frustrated. They were hot and not happy at all. We all really needed a nap. It hit me really fast that this is why I should not be afraid to ask for help. I am feeling overwhelmed right now, and it is okay. I’m still trying to learn how to be available to 2 babies all the time while working and blogging. It is so tough sometimes.

God has a funny way of teaching me lessons. He definitely has a sense of humor. I am stubborn and determined and he is trying to show me that it can’t always be my way. I can’t do it alone. I have to learn to rely on Him, always. After this experience, I can honestly say, I have learned my lesson. It really does take a village to raise a child, and it’s okay to learn to rely on the village sometimes.

If you’re a mom, I just want to say that you are wonderful. You are doing an amazing job. No matter what phase of life you’re in – whether you have babies or grown adult children there will always be challenges because you’re a mom. You are everything to your kids, so don’t give up and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. We all need help sometimes.

The Importance of “Me Time”

June 3, 2015

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #V8EnergyBoost #CollectiveBias

During this first month after becoming a mother of 2 under 2, I have learned the importance of “me time.” My “me time” is very rare. In fact, it hasn’t happened more than a couple of times this month. It is so sacred and precious. During my “me time” I will go out to lunch with my bestie, or simply stay at home and enjoy a cup of coffee in silence or while I read my latest novel. It is rejuvenating and it always refreshes me to get away for a few minutes.

I haven’t been cleared to workout yet, but as soon as I do, I can’t wait to pick up an exercise routine again. I have missed it more than words can say. I have always struggled with anxiety, and for me, exercise has been so important in coping with that and relieving some of the stresses that anxiety brings. Until I can exercise I have been trying to watch what I eat. Coffee isn’t always the greatest choice for me because I load it with cream and sugar (no artificial sweeteners for me). Because I am also breastfeeding, I have to really watch my caffeine intake as well.

I am so excited to have discovered V8 V-Fusion+ Energy Drinks! They are a much healthier choice and are full of vitamins from a combined serving of fruit and vegetables. They are a natural energy drink, powered by green tea and Lord knows I need all the energy I can get. I grabbed a 6-pack of the V8 V-Fusion + Energy Drinks while shopping at Walmart the other day in the Orange Pineapple flavor. It did not disappoint. While I do not ever have plans to give up coffee, because I love and need my coffee, it is nice to drink one of these Energy Drinks as an alternative every once in a while or as an afternoon pick-me-up. They taste like fruit and only have 50 calories per 8oz. serving. Pretty awesome if you ask me!

Giveaway Time!

V8 V-Fusion+Energy #V8EnergyBoost $2,500 Sweepstakes

What is your go-to pick-me-up? Which flavor of the V8-V Fusion+Energy Drinks would you try?

Things to Do For Yourself Before Baby

May 26, 2015

Before your sweet little bundle of joy arrives, it is very important to take care of yourself and enjoy some “me time.” You won’t get very much of that after the baby arrives, and even when you do, all you can think about is your baby. It is important to take care of yourself and enjoy a bit of pampering before the big day comes because then it will be all about the baby – for a while.

Here is a list of things to do for yourself before you have your baby:

Manicure/Pedicure

Movie with Friends

Girls Night

Get a Massage

Read a Book

Haircut

Eyebrows Waxed / Spa Day

Deep-clean the house

Go on a date (or 5) with your husband

Relax

Would you add anything to this list?

Mother’s Day 2015

May 12, 2015

Mother’s Day was Sophie-Rae’s first Sunday at church! It was anything but a perfect day, but it was still very special to me. If you have a toddler, you know how important nap time is. When said nap is skipped, you get this…

haha! Oh, well! We had a great first Sunday at church as a family of four! After that, we went out to eat with my family and really enjoyed their company.

Four generations! How special is that?

Little miss Sophie-Rae looked beautiful in her lavender dress that my grandmother gave her! The rest of our Sunday was spent at home napping and relaxing! I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Did you do anything special for Mother’s Day?

Easy and Healthy Snack Ideas for the Breastfeeding Moms

May 7, 2015

This post is sponsored by Kozy Shack Simply Well, but all opinions are my own.

I seriously forgot how breastfeeding makes you so hungry and thirsty all the time. It is crazy. I thought I was hungry during my pregnancy? It doesn’t even compare! I quickly gathered all of my favorite snacks that keep me full without sacrificing my health. Here are some of my favorite breastfeeding snacks:

Almonds
String Cheese
Yogurt
Granola Bars
Energy Bites
Fruit
Trail Mix
Smoothies
Kind Bars
Raw veggies and Hummus
Kozy Shack Rice Pudding

Kozy Shack Rice Pudding is only 90 calories and is gluten free! I absolutely love eating this as a quick snack especially when I am craving something sweet! My son also loves these. It is great bonding time when we are able to sit down and enjoy our pudding together.

Giveaway Time! Leave me a comment below telling me what fun fact you learned about Kozy Shack from visiting their site HERE. I will randomly choose one winner and Kozy Shack will send you 2 VIP coupons as well as a Kozy Shack Simply Well package! Enter in the rafflecopter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Don’t forget to check out Kozy Shack on Instagram!

5 Musts Haves for Postpartum + Poise Free Samples

May 6, 2015

Today’s post is sponsored by Poise, but my love for their LBL products is all my own! #RecycleYourPeriodPad

Get your Poise Free Samples here!

I just got home from the hospital a couple of days ago after having my second child. While the recovery has seemed to be a little easier this time around, I have definitely been reminded of the importance of a few things I would not have made it without:

–Pads
After two pregnancies, LBL is a real thing in my life. Just ask Ryan. He can make me laugh so hard sometimes that I pee. Literally. It’s not something I’m proud of, but it happens. It’s just part of life after babies, I suppose. Did you know 1 in 3 women experience LBL? It’s true. I love the new Poise Thin-Shaped liners because they are light and perfect for women who struggle with light bladder leakage.
-Compression Tanks
These have been wonderful for postpartum. They really hold everything into place and feel so great. I bought a couple of them from Motherhood Maternity and I am so thankful for them.
-Help
My mom and sister have been amazing help this week. They have helped me do laundry, clean and have really helped with the kiddos. It has been so nice to have the extra hands around here while I am still recovering and it has made life so much easier.
-Easy Snacks
I forgot how breastfeeding makes you feel SO hungry all the time. It has been really nice to have easy snacks that I can just grab and eat while I’m feeding Sophie-Rae.
-Rest
Getting plenty of rest has been easier this time around with all of my mom and sister’s help around here. It has been so nice to be able to really rest so that I can be alert for Hampton and SR!

Get your Free Samples of Poise Thin-Shaped Pads HERE!

What would you add to my list of Postpartum Essentials?

New Mom Essentials

April 27, 2015

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #LongLastingScent #CollectiveBias

I have an eighteen month old child and a second one due any day now. Becoming a “new mom” all over again can be a bit intimidating. This time around, I know what is coming. I know pretty much what to expect, although every child is very different. I have been very busy preparing for her arrival these last couple of weeks. In doing so, I’ve compiled a list of all the new mom essentials I found that I needed the first time around.

Nutrition Essentials:
Healthy Snacks – Fruit, granola bars, yogurt, etc.
Water Bottle – It’s so important to stay very hydrated while breastfeeding. Make sure you are drinking enough with a water bottle that has fl. oz. marked on the side.

Health Essentials:
Maxi Pads
Tucks
Dermoplast
Peri Bottle
Nursing Pads
Supportive Nursing Bra
Lanolin
Hand Sanitizer

I think these are all pretty self explanatory. The hospital may give you some of these things, but probably not enough. You will definitely want to have these on hand when you arrive home from the hospital.

Home Essentials:
Tissues
Suavitel® Fragrance Pearls™ – You will be doing loads and loads of laundry with a new baby. Picture your normal weekly loads times 5. It is important to be prepared for this before you bring your bundle of joy home from the hospital. I ran to Walmart the other day to purchase some Suavitel® Fragrance Pearls™. These are in wash scent boosters that hold 5x longer lasting fragrance. You will be thankful for fresh smelling laundry after dealing with all of that poop every day. These come in two scents – Lavender and Field Flowers. I also purchased the Suavitel® liquid fabric conditioner in Field Flowers and have really enjoyed it. There will be Suavitel® Fragrance Pearls™ samples and select Suavitel® liquid fabric conditioners in your Walmart store!

Disinfectant Wipes – These are so convenient for a quick clean-up.

Beauty Essentials:
Face Wipes – It is important to take care of your skin and wash your face really well, but sometimes we just don’t have time. Face wipes are really convenient and make you feel fresh even when you’re running on little sleep.
Concealer – to hide those dark circles.
Eye Cream – also, to help with dark circles and puffiness.
Lip Balm
Dry Shampoo – because who has time to wash their hair these days?

Entertainment:
Magazine
Book
Netflix and a Remote
Coffee

I made a list of items that I found out very quickly after my first baby that I needed. Unfortunately, I was not as prepared the first time. This time, I have made up a little basket that is sitting in my bathroom ready to go for whenever this baby decides to come on!

What are some of your new mom essentials? Were you prepared for all of the extra laundry that comes along with a new baby?

37 Weeks Pregnant + My Five

April 10, 2015

ONE.
First of all, thank you all so much for your support, encouragement and advice on this post the other day. It was overwhelming and so encouraging and reassuring to read your comments on your experience with having a second child. It definitely made me feel better to write what has been on my heart the last few weeks and to share my fears with you. I never imagined you would all be so supportive. THAT is why I blog. I love you guys!

TWO.
I will be 37 weeks pregnant tomorrow. Full term, y’all! I can’t believe how fast this pregnancy has been. I’m feeling pretty good minus the normal aches and pains that come with the end of pregnancy. I won’t go into detail, but you know… I’m definitely ready to have her now. I’m ready to see what she looks like! I will be sharing more photos of her nursery very soon! I basically used all of Hampton’s nursery furniture and just added in a little pink. 🙂 I am looking very forward to my Doctor appointment next week because we are having an ultrasound to measure baby girl and talk about possibly inducing. While I had a positive experience being induced with Hamp, I haven’t totally decided if I want to be induced again. I’ll keep you all posted as best I can, but for more updates, follow my Instagram!

THREE.
Mother’s Day is coming up in one month from today! Have you thought about what you’re getting your mom? I shared a fun idea for a gift basket for all new mother’s in your life yesterday! Be sure to check it out!

FOUR.
We are taking Hampton to see and ride Thomas the Train tomorrow! I can’t wait!! He will be so excited and I can’t wait to see his little face! Let’s just pray I don’t go into labor while on that train ride. It could happen…

FIVE.
I officially have an Etsy addiction. It’s bad. You will see that more and more in the coming weeks. I have a few exciting giveaways coming up and so definitely check back in! Especially if you or someone you know is having a baby girl!

What is your favorite Etsy shop for a baby girl? What do you have planned this weekend?