Pregnancy – Page 4

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

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?

Pregnancy Week by Week

May 1, 2015

Happy May! I thought today would be a very appropriate day to look back through my weeks of pregnancy. My due date is TOMORROW! So crazy! I loved putting together this post and looking back at my belly growth. While I gained much less during this pregnancy than I did my first, I still gained more than I wanted to. It will all be worth it when I see that sweet little girl. Here is a look back on my pregnancy:

Announcement

14 Weeks
15 Weeks
16 Weeks

17 Weeks
18 Weeks
21 Weeks

22 Weeks
23 Weeks
24 Weeks

25 Weeks

26 Weeks

27 Weeks

29 Weeks
30 Weeks
32 Weeks

34 Weeks
35 Weeks

36 Weeks
37 Weeks
38 Weeks

39 Weeks

You might also enjoy reading How to Have a Healthy Pregnancy.

I have had a wonderful pregnancy this time around and I can’t believe it is almost over (any day now)! We can’t wait to meet our sweet angel!

39 Weeks Pregnant + Five on Friday

April 24, 2015

ONE.
How Far Along: 39 weeks! We are officially one week away from baby!!

Size of Baby: She measured 7lbs. at our 37 week ultrasound, so I’m guessing she is close to 8lbs. now. In other words, COME ON BABY!

Gender: Our baby girl! SRC!

Weight Gain: I hit 30 lbs last week. So, there’s that. Good news is, I will be having her any day now. Hopefully I won’t gain much more.

Movement: All the time. Bless her heart, I’m surprised she is still able to move. I’m sure she has been out of room in there for weeks. haha

Sleep: I haven’t slept much this week. Mostly due to terrible allergies. Despite all of the rain we have had, I have pollen all over my car and the bees are buzzing every where. My allergies have been so bad.

Workouts: This week, I haven’t walked or worked out as much. I walked 3 days and did my TIU workouts 2 days. Not great, but I’m going to try to do better this weekend.

Maternity Clothes: I’m still mixing and matching. Maternity jeans are awesome and Nike shorts are the bomb. That is basically my wardrobe as of right now.

Symptoms: I’ve been having stronger Braxton Hicks contractions and I have felt a lot of pressure and lower back pain. Probably because she is ready to make her grand entrance. I hope…

Cravings/Aversions: No cravings, but I have been so hungry for some reason.

Missing Most: Sleep.

Nursery: I shared the finished product on the blog earlier this week! What do you think?

TWO.
I’m giving away a $50 shop credit to Love Garlands here. There are only a couple of days left to enter!

THREE.
I am so excited to spend the weekend with my two favorite boys! We have plans to go to the farmer’s market in the morning and stock up on groceries so that I can make a few frozen meals this week. We are going to spend the whole day as a family of 3 for the last Saturday. Bittersweet.

FOUR.
My little man is officially 18 months old today! I can’t believe how fast these 18 months have flown. I feel like I just left the hospital with him and now we are about to have his little sister. He has loved spending the week in his Hey Girl tee from Bless Her Heart!

FIVE.
I’ve been spending a little bit of time trying to get ahead on my blogging – scheduling posts and social media for the next couple of weeks. It is HARD to get ahead. How do you do it? Do you set aside time to schedule and write every day? What works for you?

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Be sure to follow me on Instagram for baby updates!

How To Have A Healthy Pregnancy

April 21, 2015

I’ve talked so much about how different this pregnancy has been compared to my first. Could it be because the genders are different? I don’t think so. I’ll be dead honest with you. I was not in a good place when I got pregnant with my first. I was depressed because we had been trying for 9 months with no luck, and the doctor was talking about putting me through all of these tests/treatments etc. It was not a happy time. Then, when I got pregnant, I jut wasn’t in the mood to workout. I didn’t care to eat super healthy. I literally let myself go. I was scared to barely move because I thought something would happen to H. Now that I was pregnant, I wasn’t going to do anything to mess it up. He was staying put. So, I sat. I didn’t walk or lift anything. It was kind of funny…in a sad way.

This time around, I have been very active. Even today, I am still exercising daily. Some days it may just be a walk around the block, but I’m moving every day. I’ve eaten more healthy. Definitely not clean by any means, but I have done a better job (aka no chocolate chip cookies every night) and the differences in my pregnancies have been incredible. I can still get in the floor and play with my toddler. I can still chase him around, exercise and cook dinner without feeling overwhelmingly tired or miserable. I feel so much better. So, here are some of my tips on how you can have a healthier pregnancy:

-Stay Active. Don’t ever overdo it. Talk to your doctor about what exercises you should and should not be doing. Walking is so so good for you, but no laying on your back to do those crunches after 12 weeks. You CAN, however do standing crunches. 🙂 I have really enjoyed yoga during this pregnancy. The stretching and strength training has kept me feeling a lot better. My hips and back haven’t hurt as much and haven’t been so tight.

-Stay Mentally Healthy. Don’t worry yourself to death. Stay calm. Pray. Pregnancy comes with a lot of uncertainties. With my son, I thought if I walked too much he would fall out. That’s just not going to happen. Sure, some women have miscarriages and it is awful, but it’s not because of anything YOU have done. The best thing you can do is not stress, take deep breaths and take care of yourself mentally.

-Eat Right Most Of The Time. I say most of the time because it is always good to eat right. Pregnant or not. However, I do think that life is way too short to not indulge every once in a while. Hello, my name is Logan and I’m a chocoholic! I’m not giving it up, but I will moderate. There is a huge difference. I believe by telling yourself you can’t ever have Mexican food or sugar, you are setting yourself up for failure. Just eat those things in moderation.

-Go To Your Regular Check-ups. It is so important to go to your doctor regularly. Do not skip appointments. Go to every single one.

-Rest. Listen to your body. If you are super tired, lay down and take a nap or rest for a while. Don’t overdo it. If you are really tired, your body is telling you to rest. Kick those feet up. It’s okay to give yourself a break.

-Drink Lots of Water. If you need encouragement on this one, read about my pregnancy scare that was a direct effect of not drinking enough water. Drink up! Water is not only good for you and your energy, it’s really important for you baby.

What tips do you have for having a healthy pregnancy?

38 Weeks Pregnant + F I V E

April 17, 2015

O N E.
I will be 38 weeks pregnant tomorrow! We are officially in the home stretch! I had a great check-up this week! Baby SR is already 7lbs. and has lots of hair just like her brother! She also has little rolls on her thighs! Ah, I died! She is head down and ready to go! My Doctor told me it could literally be any day.I wouldn’t hate it if she came on. I’m still feeling pretty good, just large and getting to that uncomfortable point. Although, I feel a million times better this time than I did with H. I’m thankful for that. Be sure to follow me on Instagram for baby updates!

T W O.
I have had a couple of giveaways on my blog this week! Did you see them? Enter this giveaway to win $15 Paypal Cash and if you are a new mom, expecting, or know someone who is, enter this giveaway to win an adorable onesie (of your choice) from TuTu Sweet in Pink Boutique!

T H R E E.
My awesome MIL texted me this week and offered to keep H for us tonight so that Ryan and I can go on a date and enjoy a night to ourselves before SR arrives! I am SO excited! Ryan has been super busy this past month and I feel like I’ve hardly seen him. We definitely could use this time alone right about now. I’m also excited to hopefully get a little bit of uninterrupted cleaning done. It’s going to be a great weekend!

F O U R.
Last weekend, we took Hampton to see Thomas the Train. We rode him and met Sir Topham Hatt! It was a huge deal to my little boy who is absolutely in love with Thomas. I almost cried when he saw him for the first time. His little face lit up and he was so happy! Later that day, Hampton started looking awful. His eyes were swollen and he broke out in a rash. I thought he was having an allergic reaction to something, but it turns out he had Roseola virus. He has also been battling a double ear infection. I ran him to the Doctor and we found out the antibiotic he had been on was not even working. It was pitiful. Needless to say, we have spent most of our week inside resting. My little man is finally acting better and his rash has cleared up. I’m so ready to have my crazy little toddler back! 🙁

F I V E.
Weekly Round Up:

Check out these delicious Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles I made last weekend! They are so delicious and perfect for a warm day out in the sun!

Tuesday, I shared My Morning Routine with you and my new favorite yogurt flavor!

I showed off a little bit of my nerdy side with my new glasses.

Yesterday, I shared my new diaper bag with a checklist of what to put in it for the new baby! Also, don’t forget to enter to win a onesie from TuTu Sweet in Pink Boutique! They are SO cute!

What are you up to this weekend?

Diaper Bag Checklist

April 16, 2015

As I’ve been packing for the hospital over the last couple of days, I decided, hey! Why not blog about it? So here is a list of things I have packed in our baby girl’s diaper bag:

Cute Diaper Bag
Wipes
Diapers
Baby’s first aid kit
Onesies
Swaddles
Pacifiers
Paci Wipes
Hand and Face Wipes
Tylenol
Teething gel or tablets
Plastic bag (for dirty clothes or diapers)
Bottles/snacks
Snacks and water bottle for mom especially if you’re nursing.
Teething toy
Taggie Blanket
Thermometer

I ended up buying the Petunia Pickle Bottom Sashay Satchel in Paris Noir and could not be happier with it! I can wear it as a tote or as a backpack which is a huge deal to me! I also love all the pockets and storage it has since I will be putting 2 kid’s things in it this time around.

With H, I learned the hard way to never ever leave without a plastic bag and at least 2 outfits packed. I had a couple of bad accidents with him in the beginning and it was not pleasant.

Onesie: c/o TuTu Sweet In Pink Boutique here

Speaking of outfits, I absolutely love this TuTu Sweet In Pink Boutique. They have the cutest onesies, and you are in luck because they are giving one away to my lucky readers! Go to TSIPB’s Facebook page and choose the onesie you want from this album! Enter in the rafflecopter below! Good luck!

Ryan laughs at me because I call newborns “new babies.” I’m not sure why, but I always have. I mean, they ARE new. Anyways… when I saw this adorable onesie, I knew I had to have it. First of all, I decided at the beginning of the year that my color was going to be gold. I’ve been loving gold sparkly everything lately. With the phrase and the fast that the letters are all gold and sparkly, I just couldn’t say no to this one. My baby girl had to have it. I have obviously packed it in our hospital bag, because she needs to wear it while she is “new.” 🙂

Be sure to check out TuTu Sweet in Pink Boutique’s Etsy Shop // Facebook // Instagram to keep up with their adorable clothes! Enter their giveaway below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

What did you include in your diaper bag? Did I leave anything out?

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?

5 Reasons I’m Nervous About Having A Second Child

April 7, 2015

I’m going to be very open and honest with you. I am so nervous about having a second child. As I’ve gotten bigger during this pregnancy, life has become a lot harder with Hampton. He doesn’t understand “mommy is hurting right now” or “mommy doesn’t feel good.” All he sees is a big round stomach he can bounce off of. My family is probably sitting here reading this and laughing hysterically because I actually want four children (as long as we are able and it is in God’s plan, of course). So why am I so nervous about baby #2?

1. First off, SR was a bit of a surprise for us. We had originally planned to wait until around…now to start trying for baby #2 so that Hampton would be 2 years old. HA once again, God said, “Logan, you are not in control, I am.” I am so thankful for this sweet baby girl and I know once she is here, I woould’t have wanted to change a thing, because that’s how God works. His timing is perfect, always. Alas, I am an extreme planner and a little OCD when things don’t go according to plan, so this has been a big learning lesson for me.

2. How will I have time for BOTH of my children? So many people do this. I don’t know why I am even worried about time management with two kids, but I guess it’s because I haven’t done it yet. I know I will figure it out and I’m hoping my mommy instincts will kick in again and I will know exactly how to handle it. I am, after all their mother.

3. I’m scared that Hampton will take it really hard. He is my baby, y’all. He is only 17 months old. He is still very baby-like most of the time. He loves to be held and has been very clingy to me lately. He is always right up under me. I’m scared he will have a hard time adjusting to not being the only “baby” around here.

4. When will I sleep again? We just started sleeping through the night (consistently) about 5 months ago. We have been in a really good routine, and now we are about to start the newborn phase all over again. Back to square one we go! Yikes! And this time? with an 18 month old.

5. I’m terrified of giving birth. My friends and family who know me really well, know that I have extreme anxiety over all things needles. I’ve always hated going to the doctor and let’s just say, giving birth was a little traumatic for me. I did really well, but I was terrified. Now that I know what’s coming, I’m even more nervous about it.

Okay, so now that my mom is laughing and saying “And you want FOUR?” I will reiterate: I know I can do this. I know that God does not give us more than we can handle. I know that His plan is bigger and better than mine and I know that I will laugh at myself later on and think “why did I freak out?” Well, I freaked out over Hampton, too. It was something new that I hadn’t experienced before. This is new and it will be for a while, but I will figure it out and everything will turn out great.

What tips do you have for a mom going from 1 to 2 kids?

36 Weeks Pregnant

April 3, 2015

How Far Along: 36 weeks! Less than one month to go!

Size of Baby: Babycenter says 6 lbs. and 18 1/2 in. I have a hard time believing she is already that big.

Gender: Our baby girl! SRC!

Weight Gain: I hit 25 lbs last week. It’s kind of got me a bit down, because I really wanted to stay between 25-30lbs, and I’m just not sure that’s going to happen. I’m not giving up just yet. 😉

Movement: Her movement is getting harder by the day. It definitely feels more like my ribs are being punched rather than tapped at this point. She move all the time but especially at night.

Sleep: I’ll be honest, I’m not hardly sleeping. Maybe my body is preparing for no sleep? I’m not sure, but I have been having a very hard time getting comfortable and she moves most at night.

Workouts: This week, I have walked 2 miles a day and completed my TIU workouts as best I can. Of course, I can’t do any of the exercises that require I lay on my back, but I’ve done everything else.

Maternity Clothes: I’ve still been mixing and matching maternity and non-maternity. I’m definitely in maternity jeans only and very thankful for them, but I am still wearing my regular nike shorts and yoga pants most days.

Symptoms: I’ve still been having some Braxton Hicks contractions and I have felt a lot of pressure. I’m sure it is just the baby moving down. I have definitely dropped a lot. Pregnancy is so weird…and cool. haha

Cravings/Aversions: I haven’t had many cravings the last couple of weeks. I feel so big and crowded at this point that eating is more of a chore than a want thing right now.

Missing Most: Sleep. I’ve been really struggling with that this week.

Nursery: It is finally finished minus the mattress. I’m not obsessing over it right now because I know she will sleep in our room for a little while any way.

She will be here before we know it! I can’t believe how fast it is going by this time. Maybe I should buy some diapers… and pack something?

Five on Friday

March 27, 2015

ONE.
Hampton and I went on 2 playdates this week. It has been so nice to get out and enjoy the weather. We go on walks almost every day, but it was fun to do something different. Tuesday we went to the zoo and Wednesday we had a picnic at the park. Did you catch my toddler playdate ideas I shared yesterday? Get out and enjoy the weather!

TWO.
I am giving away a pair of Ralph Lauren Sunglasses from Sunglasses Shop! Be sure to stop by and enter. Everyone needs a new pair of sunnies for the summer!

THREE.
My baby turned 17 months old earlier this week. I can’t believe how grown he is. He is talking so much more and acting so much older. He is still very into Thomas the train and I am so excited to surprise him with tickets to ride Thomas and meet Sir Topham Hatt next month.

FOUR.
I will be 35 weeks pregnant tomorrow. What? I literally can’t believe it. It feels like yesterday that I told Ryan I was 30 weeks and we only had 10 more to go. Now, we are down to 5 weeks. I still have so much to buy. I don’t know if it’s the 2nd child or what, but I have not been as prepared this time. PLEASE help me out and list all of your baby gear you couldn’t live without! Specifically for a baby girl. Any Etsy shop recommendations? Must have items?

FIVE.

SC Johnson is holding a sweepstakes where you can win a $200 Visa Gift Card, Bose System and Tons of cleaning supplies. All you have to do is take this quick quiz! You also get free coupons at the end of the quiz! It’s definitely worth checking out! Click here to take the quiz!

I hope you all have a great weekend! Don’t forget to tell me what your favorite baby gear and shops are in the comments!

Linking up here and here.