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Dad to be Gift Guide

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Every item is something we love and may receive a small commission from you shopping these great items.

For nine long months, everything revolves around the ladies. Well don’t forget the dad to be in your life this holiday season! Most purchases revolve around abnormal food cravings or maternity clothes. For the Dad to be’s this season, I’ve put together a list of the 10 things my hubby wished he had when we were pregnant!

  1. Dada Coffee Mug- $19.99. This super cute mug is modern and will hold all of the endless coffee he will need after that cute bundle of joy is born.
  2. YETI Rambler– $34.99. You literally can’t go wrong with a YETI. They last forever and will be perfect for him to take on the go!
  3. FridaBalls The Kid Proof Underwear– $27.99. I can’t even with these! They have a soft foam cup to protect his you know from the baby kicking him while in the baby carrier. GENIUS (just like all of Frida’s items).
  4. Magnetic Phone Car Mount- $11.99. My husband swears by his magnetic phone mount. It clips right on the air vent and just place your phone there. He will no longer be searching his pockets of seats for his phone when he gets a call for that mid-day pregnancy craving.
  5. Ergobaby 360 All Positions Baby Carrier– $140.00. This one is an investment for mom and dad. The green color makes it nice for dad to wear along with the cool mesh which keeps baby and dad not so sweaty. Baby can also be worn in 4 different positions.
  6. Regional Manager + Assistant to the Regional Manager Matching Shirts- $39.99. For The Office loving dad to be, grab these cute shirts that will be sure to give him a laugh.
  7. Back and Neck Massager– $44.95. Dad will need this when he’s up all night rocking that crying baby… or Mom will, either one. This has over 6,000 5-star reviews!
  8. We’re Pregnant! The First Time Dad’s Pregnancy Handbook– $9.99. This funny book gives great insight as to what he’s going to be going through in a few months! Que the long nights and endless coffee.
  9. Round of Golf- $10-100. Give the new Dad some time for himself by picking up a round of golf at his favorite course. I know my hubby would’ve loved this!
  10. L.L. Bean Men’s Wicked Good Moccasins– $79.00. Slippers are the perfect gift anytime! These are great because they can be worn outside for when he takes the trash out. Also, L.L. Bean stands behind their product and will replace at any time for any defective reasons.

Hoping the new Dad in your life loves these gifts! What did you snag for him? Share in the comments!

Mama to be Gift Guide under $50

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*This post contains no affiliate links. Every item is something we love and receive no commission from you shopping these great items.*

I bet we all have a mama to be in our lives who deserve a little love this holiday season. Most times, people forget about our pregnant moms and just start buying for the baby because little onesies are cute and easy to buy, am I right?! But, lets not forget who carries these precious babies for nine long months.

I’ve compiled a list of six things that I wish someone had bought me when I was pregnant. Also, made this list budget friendly by keeping all of the gifts under $50 so you don’t break the bank while shopping! Each item is numbered where you can find it in the list below.

  1. Relax Sweet Dreams Gift Set– $38.95. Since insomnia is the worst during pregnancy, gift her this set full of lavender scents. It comes with a shower gel, body lotion, bubble bar, and bath bomb. This is the perfect combo to help mask over those long nights.
  2. Women’s Beautifully Soft Robe– $27.99. I was gifted this while pregnant and still wear it postpartum. Its easy to throw on, extremely soft, and covers your lady bits… what more can you ask for when you’re pregnant?! I recommend sizing up since your tummy will too!
  3. Women’s Beautifully Soft Notch Collar Pant Pajama Set– $29.99. These come in 5 different colors and are INCREDIBLY soft! They have so much give and stretch to them so perfect for mamas.
  4. Bump Boxes– $39.99 each box (6 month, 9 month, and 12 month subscriptions are available at discounted rate). These boxes are handpicked to each stage in pregnancy. Items for self-care, comfort and the new baby will be sure to make mama smile!
  5. Uber Eats Gift Card– Somedays mama may have NO energy to make lunch/dinner. Being able to pick from pizza, ice cream, or a burger will make her day that much better!
  6. Boppy Pregnancy Support Pillow– $39.99. The large pregnancy pillows are too big and bulky to comfortably sleep with. This is the perfect size to rest her belly and legs on.
  7. Prenatal Massage– $35-100. There is nothing better than a prenatal massage when your feet are swollen and hips are sore. You can score deals on these with Groupon.
  8. Freshly Picked Classic Zip Pouch– $49.00 (20% when you sign up for Fringe) Perfect to hold keys, chapstick, snacks, etc. with phenomenal detail. She can even use this after baby! It’s big enough for a diaper and some wipes.
  9. Loopy Phone Case– $39.00. Nifty loop on case makes it easy to carry when juggling decaf coffee, food, and car keys. Comes in super cute colors and prints!
  10. Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle– $14.99. This a postpartum essential! Makes recovery “down there” so much easier than what the hospital will provide. If you’re unsure if she’ll use this, just buy it!!

Hoping the moms in you’re shopping for will love these gifts! Share what you picked up for the mamas to be that you love. Happy Shopping!

The Best Baby Black Friday Deals

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the best baby Black Friday deals 2019

*This post contains no affiliate links. Every item is something we love and receive no commission from you shopping these great items.*

It’s that time of year again! Time to get those credits cards out and snag some deals on our favorite baby items this Black Friday. Black Friday falls on November 29th, 2019 this year with some sales beginning November 25th. I’ve taken some time to put together the deals that have caught my eye already. Most are small shops that we love personally and others are items that just have a great price we can’t pass on!

Baby

Freshly Picked– 30% storewide starting 11/25. You can join their Fringe Rewards program to save an additional 20% on top of sale prices. They have the cutest moccasins and best leather diaper bags! (the Classic is on my list)

SnuggleMe Organic– Begins 11/18 at 6:30. Infant loungers are $68 (reg. $99), Toddler loungers are $99 (reg. $149), Infant covers are $35 (reg. $48), and Toddler covers are $45 (reg. $64). Text BLACKFRIDAY to 81787 for the secret link when sales go live!

Lou Lou and Company– They are offering exclusive sales every day before Black Friday! You must join their email list to get the daily discount code. You can sign up HERE.

Copper Pearl- 10% of all orders, 15% off orders over $75, and 20% off orders over $150 beginning 11/29 at 8 am MST. These are the softest swaddles! We have a few!

Kyte Baby– 25% site wide starting 11/29. They are offering a “Pre-Black Friday” sale with urge to fill your wishlist for easy purchasing when the sale goes live!

BabyBreez– 30% off sitewide now! Starting pajama shopping a little early with 30% site wide. Just use code FRIDAY30.

Lulu and Roo– 25% off sitewide + daily deals starting 11/26 at 12 AM MST. All of their super cute clothing is handmade! Made in the USA.

Bloom Headwraps– 25% storewide!

Target: Prices are good 11/28-30 with in store sales beginning at 5 pm.

  • – Chicco Bravo travel system– $100 off bringing it to $279.99 + tax. This popular stroller has 4.5 stars on every site and is highly recommended among mamas!

Buy Buy Baby– They are listing ALL of their sale items on one page, HERE. Many sales are happening now!

Willow: Wearable Breast Pump- 15% off with code 150FF starting now to cyber Monday. They also have free shipping on all pumps!

Itzy Ritzy– 40% off on 11/25 only for Itzy Rewards members! Non-members can receive 40% on 11/26 with code EXTRA. 11/27-11/29 will have 30% off with code MAGICAL. They have everything from diaper bags to clothes!

Nanit Smart Baby Monitor– 20% off at Best Buy starting 11/29. There may possibly be a deal on their direct website as well.

These are my favorite Black Friday sales for 2019! I love the curation of small shops and our favorite products. I’d love to hear what deals you’re planning on snagging this year! Share below!

Newborn Must-Haves

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We spend 9 months buying everything we’re told we need for our brand new baby. We buy everything our parents and friends tell us to but we still forget some things unknowingly. So the day comes when you take your beautiful bundle of joy home! Then at 2 am after being home for 2 weeks, baby gets a diaper rash and you realize that you never picked up rash cream. A tragedy, trust me. Following our must-haves would’ve helped your delirious and tired self be a bit more prepared.

I’m sharing our 7 Newborn Must-Haves! I seriously couldn’t live without any of these products.

Newborn Must-Haves! Sound machine, thermometer, swaddle, owlet smart sock, single me lounger.
  • Aquaphor– This stuff is the bees knees for diaper rashes. We had initially bought a natural brand that just didn’t get rid of the rash. I tried Aquaphor and BAM! the rash was gone within hours.
  • Portable Sound Machine– I would clip this little thing onto the carseat and she’d immediately fall asleep. It was pure magic! The Rohm Sound Machine actually charges with a USB making it super perfect for on-the-go.
  • SnuggleMe Lounger– After holding Vivian for hours, my arms would get so tired. I’d just place this on the couch or bed with me then lay her in it. She would sleep a few hours! (thank goodness) It helps babies feel like their in your arms. We still use this!
  • Thermometer– When you’re in the hospital, they check the babies temperature every hour. When we got home, I was constantly worried that Vivi had a fever. I would pop the thermometer out at any time! Also, make sure to get an oral/rectal thermometer as best readings are rectal.
  • Swaddle– We seriously swear by the Copper Pearl Swaddles. They feel like you favorite comfy t-shirt and are so stretchy. It helps get a nice swaddle on baby while also letting them have room to move around.
  • Owlet Smart Sock– This thing is a life saver! Place it right on baby’s foot and it tracks their heart rate and oxygen levels. If either drops below recommended levels, a red alarm goes off at the base. We had one scare with it and caught it right away. With the high risk of SIDS in infants, I recommend it to any parent. It is worth every single penny!
  • Mustela No Rinse Cleansing Water– Most babies get what they call “baby acne”, so normal. Put some of this on a cotton pad and gently rub over the acne. It cleared up Vivi’s baby acne overnight! You can also use this to wipe baby down in between baths in those early days.

What are your must-haves for newborns?! I’d love to hear and share with other mamas!

Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission should you chose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using my link. It’s okay – I love all of these companies anyways, and you will too!

Breastfeeding Must Haves For New Moms

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Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission should you chose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using my link. It’s okay – I love all of these companies anyways, and you will too!

Whether this is your first time or fifth time nursing, there are things you MUST have! Todays breastfeeding must haves are constantly evolving with our ever changing world. Something you may have used with last baby may have been updated by now. There are so many nifty things to make your breastfeeding journey easier, thank goodness (as if the physical and emotional toll wasn’t enough).

As for me, I am a first time nursing mama! No one in my family had ever breastfed, so I really only had a few friends to ask for advice. I can’t tell you how many times I looked on Pinterest at other mama’s nursing lists! So I decided to gather my necessary items I’ve been using this far.

  • Medela Milk Storage Bags– These are the best ones! They hold up to 6 ounces of milk. No ripping or tearing when freezing. The measurements of ounces is accurate! Totally worth a few extra dollars.
  • Earth Mama Nipple Butter– It’s made with all organic herbs like olive oil, beeswax, and calendula. It goes on easy when your nipples are cracked and dry (because it will happen). It’s also safe for baby so you don’t have to wipe it off before feeding. Oh and you can use this anywhere like lips, hands, feet! I even used on some dry skin Vivi had as a newborn.
  • Nursing Bra– I love the soft ones because you need to sleep in these! If you don’t sleep in a bra and breast pads, then you will wake up in a pool of milk. Not fun! These are extra soft and such a good price. Size up, they’re not supposed to be tight.
  • Breast Pads- I love the Lansinoh Stay Dry Breast Pads because they literally soak up a nights worth of milk without leaving me feeling like I have wet boobs. I keep these all of my house and even in my car! Nothing worse than leaking through a shirt in public!
  • Haakaa– Instead of letting all of your letdown milk drip into a breast pad while feeding on the other boob, this thing catches it! It’s a miracle. Depending on how much letdown you produce, you may not ever have to use a pump. I collect 6 ounces a day just from putting it on when I feed!
  • Water Bottle– You are going to be SO thirsty from nursing. Having a big water bottle by your side at all times will make it so much easier to get your water in. I recommend drinking at least 16 ounces per feeding!

Hope this makes your breastfeeding journey a bit easier 🙂

What to Pack when Traveling with a Baby

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How To Pack When Traveling With A Baby

Growing up, we didn’t do much traveling. Truthfully, I didn’t really start to travel until I was 16. Something Lee and I keep telling ourselves is that we want to show our children the world, regardless of their age. So with that, you have to make sure you have everything they need when traveling. As adults, you can get by with filling up a backpack with a toothbrush and change of clothes. With children, you have to make sure you have multiple outfits (in case one gets dirty), items incase they get sick, etc. The list goes on and on.

Since we went on our first vacation with our 2 month old recently, I wanted to share our packing list with you. We kept it pretty minimal (in my opinion, but definitely not in my husband’s LOL). Always assess where you will be visiting as different items will be needed for your little one.

  • Outfit for everyday
  • Onesie for everyday – as an extra, you never know when a blowout will happen!
  • Sleepers/Pajamas for every night
  • Sunhat – Especially if a beach vacation!
  • Sunscreen – Necessary if spending a lot of time outdoors
  • Diaper Cream – Would be worse if you didn’t!
  • Diapers – OBVIOUSLY, we purchased them when we got to our destination to save room in luggage! But if not, pack enough for 10 a day, it’s okay to have extra!
  • Wipes – 1 pack per week is a good rule of thumb.
  • Baby Body Wash
  • Thermometer – Fevers can happen anytime, especially if flying.. germs will be leaking everywhere!
  • Tylenol – Again, fevers can happen any time.
  • Nail Clippers – I always keep these in the diaper bag, sometimes it seems like their nails grow overnight.
  • Swaddle – We swear by swaddling at bed time!
  • 2 Blankets – For tummy time, hanging out on, etc.
  • Dockatot/SnuggleMe– We use the SnuggleMe and just put it right in the bed with us! Then we didn’t have to carry around a pack n play.
  • Pack N’ Play – If you don’t prefer co-sleepers. These can also be used for play time when on the beach or patio.
  • Pacifiers – Our LO doesn’t use these, but if yours does… pack extra!
  • Bottles – If bottle-fed, this is a no brainer, but pack extra!
  • Haakaa – For breastfeeding mamas, still need to collect that letdown milk!
  • Breastmilk Storage Bags – For my BF mamas.
  • Toys– Since they’re still little, rattle and a ball should keep them entertained.
  • Hand Sanitizer – Because there are germs EVERYWHERE!

You can find my travel faves on Amazon here:

What else do you pack for your little one when traveling?

Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission should you chose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using my link. It’s okay – I love all of these companies anyways, and you will too!

Maternity Photoshoot

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Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission should you chose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using my link. It’s okay – I love all of these companies anyways, and you will too!

One of the things I looked forward to the most during pregnancy was documenting my bump with a maternity photoshoot. It’s the perfect moment to remember how beautiful pregnancy truly is. I’ll remember the nausea, swollen ankles, and all the extra cookies I ate but the photos show how so much more. They show how remarkable it was to carry human inside of me. If I can give every pregnant woman advice, take some photos that make you feel empowered. You are a literal rockstar and deserve to always remember these 9 months!  

We chose none other than the Meg Dryfus Wedding + Lifestyle Photographer. She has done our announcement, holiday, and family photos. She always delivers a large, crisp, beautiful gallery, plus she has the best personality.. seriously I always look forward to shooting with her. We drove down to Bradenton Beach area at sunrise, yes roughly 6 am (Lee was not happy LOL) to have these done.

Grab your coffee and check out my favorite moments that she captured.

Maternity Photoshoot
Maternity Photoshoot

You can find my maternity dress and swim cover-up on Amazon!

I’m wearing a Large in the dress which fit me like a glove!

Third Trimester Recap

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The third trimester felt like the fastest one by far but it was also my favorite. It lasts 12 weeks but they are so easy to wish away. During my last trimester, I found myself to be very emotional. You’re buying cribs, diapers, going on maternity leave, etc. which is quite the roller coaster. I started to realize as the days went by, that it would no longer just be Lee and I. We wouldn’t be able to go get a late night dinner or lay in bed and binge watch Netflix on Sundays. You prepare 9 months for the biggest life change yet have no idea what to expect. This is why making the best of your last days as 2 is so important.

Health

I passed the Gestational Diabetes screening, WOO! The sugary drink was not as bad as I expected…just tasted like flat Sprite. But I did hear eating 37 jelly beans has the same amount of sugar and some OBs will let you do that instead (worth an ask!). My swelling continued and seemed more so 37 to 40 weeks. They did find that my protein count was close to high at my 39 week appointment which is why they induced me.

Body

Swelling all day everyday!! I gained about 25 pounds in my third trimester (60 lbs total, but that’s a story for another day) which definitely was due to the nightly cookies and cake LOL. Grocery shopping was enough walking for me as my feet started to kill me. I didn’t feel much pressure until Week 38, which mainly was my lower back if I sat in a chair too long. Lee had learned back compression exercises in our birth class that helped me so much!

Cravings

My craving for sweets came back full force in the Second Trimester. Cookies, cakes, brownies, you name it! I tried to keep breakfast, lunch, and dinner as healthy as I could with proteins and whole foods so I could have a treat each night. I continued to want deli sandwiches every single day. I know they say to avoid deli cuts due to listeria but I made sure to eat it fresh and never let it sit too long.

I felt overall pretty good during my Third Trimester and wish I could have those last days back. As 39 weeks pregnant approached, I was constantly crying. I was so worried for the unknown of labor, although I felt I was prepared as I could be. Those last 12 weeks were bittersweet and my favorite of our pregnancy journey.

TIP: Take a birthing class with your support partner. It will give you so much information about what to expect, way more than what you can read on Google!

 

 

Floral Baby Shower

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(photographer: Angel Adriana Photography)

When we found out we were having a baby girl, I was a little unsure what kind of theme I wanted to go with. We had our hearts set on a neutral safari themed room for a little boy but I knew that I want all pink for a girl. I wanted something that can grow with her and be trendy opposed to the traditional Winnie the Pooh or Mickey Mouse. We landed on a pink floral theme. Our wonderful extended family hosted this gorgeous shower for us and she did not disappoint!

Location

For all my Tampa locals, we decided to host it at Foundation Coffee Co. Tampa Heights. It is located in an old historic brick building just near Tampa Riverwalk. There is such charm in the fact that is located in a restored building. They have an door sitting area along with an eclectic outdoor space with greenery and a pergola. Outdoor seated roughly 40 people and very reasonably priced. We opted for the back patio since it was spring in Florida and couldn’t pass up the gorgeous weather.

Theme

Everything was stemmed from the actual wallpaper we used in the nursery. (You can find it HERE) We had custom napkins made with the actual wallpaper graphic. What a gorgeous touch!

Desserts

My favorite part, DUH! Our only request was great desserts and she did not disappoint when arranging them.

We had mini cupcakes which I’m all about! There was a Guinness Chocolate, Cookie Dough, and Vanilla. The cookie dough was so good, but I may be biased because I love chocolate chip cookies.

Of course there was cake, what is a baby shower without one? We had a simple white cake and vanilla buttercream naked cake from Publix. I was so impressed with the quality of the cake. Definitely would order another for an event.

For some grab and go desserts, we also had pretzel rods and cake pops. The cake pops were traditional vanilla flavor but the wow factor was the detail of design. Almost too good to eat!

Games

Since we had a co-ed shower, we tried to keep the games to a minimum so guys didn’t feel obligated. To appeal to the guys, we did a bottle chug race. This was a race of who can drink the apple juice out of the baby bottle the fastest! You could also do it with beer (guys would definitely like that LOL).

A fun way to stock up our diaper pile was to do a Diaper Raffle. We asked everyone to bring a pack of diapers and in return we chose a random name to win a prize.

A really nice touch was that my sister-in-law handed out advice cards. She asked everyone to write a piece of advice down for us. It was so sweet for us to read through these once we got home. Most advice was to sleep when possible, remember to date each other, and don’t worry about keeping your home clean.

Favors

At most showers, they give a favor that you usually toss away. Following along with our sugar addiction, we gave custom sugar cookies as our favors. They had a beautiful “V” for Vivian. Let me tell you, these things were delicious! I totally am a supporter of cookies as a favor at any event!

We were extremely blessed with family and friends who have given their unlimited love and support during our journey. It’s incredible what positivity and love a little baby brings to so many people. So incredible to showered with joy and love. We thank everyone along this road.

Second Trimester Update

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Hallelujah! We are finally into the 2nd trimester! We are are officially 17 weeks and 5 days as I write this. The first trimester wasn’t the worst in the world but it certainly sucks the life out of you. I was constantly nauseous (luckily never threw up) and was always tired. Also, its the stage when you just look/feel bloated when you’re so anxious for the bump to pop.

Here’s my 2nd trimester update so far:

Health

Maintaining healthy blood pressure and vitals at every appointment. I’ve gotten dizzy/lightheaded a few times from moving so fast but that is common as there is more blood rushing through you. We had a NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test) done to screen for any chromosomal conditions and risks. Luckily, we were low risk and negative for all. Which also makes me thankful for medical breakthroughs that we are able to screen for things so early on. I have had some slight swelling occasionally which is usually from me not moving for a long period of time. No fun! I can only imagine how worse it’ll get.

Body

I am up 10 total pounds from when we first found out I was pregnant. I actually had spiked 6 pounds at my first appointment then had lost 6 by my next appointment. At out 16 week check-up, I was back up the 6 pounds and the doctor said I’m right on track. I definitely should be walking and moving more than I do. Round ligament pain has begun last week that just feels like extra sore lower back muscles. Warm showers, stretching and massages help. Also, my acne continues to rule my face which has to be the most annoying symptom as I’ve never had acne until now. I’ve been using witch-hazel and tea tree oil to help dry out and pull any dirts out. I’ve also caved and bought my first maternity clothes! WOO!

Cravings

Still on a salty kick! Potato chips have been my bestie although I’ve only had them a few times. I also caved and had a deli sandwich because it was ALL I could think about! Bought from a respectively clean grocery store near me and so far so good.

TIP: STRETCH! That will help alleviate the pain you may start having as your body is making room for baby!