Second Trimester Wrap up!

Baby is the size of a large coconut!

Baby has fully developed taste buds and can not only hear the outside world but can cry! The second trimester was a breeze, it's as I near the last trimester that things are getting a little harder! I think I can kiss my solid sleeping good-bye as I round the corner into the home stretch with my very active little one.

SYMPTOMS: I sailed through my second trimester I had my energy back and I felt great! But in the last week of the second trimester fatigue has hit me hard again, a heavy belly, backaches and extreme rib pain. She moves all the time and I already know she's going to be full of energy! Headaches are back and at night it's impossible to get comfortable and my sleep is very interrupted. I'm finding myself more moody than usual and it's hard to tell if it's from all the unpleasant symptoms or just the increase in hormones. 

CRAVINGS: In the beginning of my second trimester I craved chocolate ice cream. Which before being pregnant I was more of a vanilla girl, but it had to be plain chocolate. No mix ins and vanilla wouldn't cut it, had to be chocolate. Near the end I haven't had any cravings at all.

WEIGHT GAIN: At the end of my 2nd trimester I've gained a total of 30 lbs which sounds like a ridiculous amount but to be honest I don't even care. I know everyone is different during pregnancy and my body is doing what it needs to prepare and support my little one. As long as baby and I are healthy I'll worry about the weight gain after she gets here!

 MATERNITY CLOTHES: I bought maternity shorts and love wearing my Target maternity dresses, I also still fit into a handful of flowy pre-pregnancy tops and dresses. So in combination with t-shirts and leggings I have enough to last me until the end so I'm pleased I spent less than $50 on all my maternity purchases and the dresses I can wear after pregnancy too. 

BABY IS A. . . : A beautiful, itty bitty, baby girl 

BABY IS DUE: Still waiting to see my new Dr. so we only have the due date my previous (and not so great) Dr gave us: October 20th. Although, I wound up being held overnight in the ER last week because I was having irregular contractions and they needed to monitor me for preterm labour. I was released after the contractions stopped and just need to take it easy and keep a watch out for preterm labour signs. Fingers crossed this little active girl holds out at least a little longer!!

BABY NAMES: We've had a boy name and a girl name picked out since the beginning (the girl name before we even knew we were pregnant!) but as it's nearing the end I think our minds have changed and we've settled on a new one :) 

DO STRANGERS NOTICE: Yes! Almost everyone now can tell I'm pregnant, I've had some strangers offer help if it looks like I'm struggling with something which is really nice, but still get the occasional server who offers me the wine menu or offers to 'spike' that lemonade I ordered! 

BABY BUYS: Stocking up on diapers and wipes, preparing for her arrival! Still on the search for the perfect car seat and stroller.

PREPARING FOR BABY: The nursery is almost done! All her clothes are organized, toys and blankets have a place, just a few more small items need to be purchased and a couple finishing decorating touches. I love sitting in her room and can't believe we'll have a new little resident in our back room soon!

2/3 of the way done!!

Must Buys Before Baby

The bare minimum list of must haves

Babies are expensive and it's easy to become overwhelmed with the endless lists of pacifiers, baby monitors, sleepers, toys, baby tubs and various other baby gadgets that are now thrown in new mommy-to-be's faces. How are we ever to make it through the day without that must have self-contained bottle sanitization steamer thingy?! How did anyone survive without these things before? Well guess what? They did and so can you. Babies really don't need that much from the get go, it's once they start growing into real little people that they become much more costly. 

Here's a list of the bare-minimum, no frills, must have buys before baby...

1. CAR SEAT: Considering you can't even leave the hospital without one this is number one! What's great is there are now ones that double both as a car seat and click into wheels to become a stroller. Less is best!
2. BABY CRIB: As much as you'll want to hold your little one, they eventually need to be put down. With so many options I suggest one of the 4-in-1 cribs, it's a crib that can later be converted into a toddler bed with a safety rail for rolling, a day bed for when they are a little older then finally a head board when they're ready to graduate to a full size bed! TIP: Invest in two or three sleep sacks or swaddle blankets to keep baby cozy in their crib (both are easy DIY projects!).
   
   Like this Fisher Price one
   
   
3. BABY BOTTLES: whether you've decided to breast feed or use formula you'll need some supplies. You'll need baby bottles and possibly a breast pump. Baby bottles increase with the size of your baby so you only need about 3 of each size to last you.  TIP: Check with your insurance first, depending on your coverage some companies offer you items for free with rebate or at a deep discount!
4. DIAPER STATION: Setting up your "diaper station" is essential, you'll be spending a lot of your time here soon. How do you feel most comfortable changing your baby? On a water proof mat on the floor, a changing pad on top of a dresser? With fabric diapers or disposable ones? Whatever you decide make sure you have plenty of diapers and wipes easily accessible, try nesting baskets, an open tray or in the top drawer.  TIP: buy wipes in bulk because you'll use these for years to come and don't over buy diapers in case baby grows out of them quickly you don't want to be left with loads of extras. Want to get really fancy? Invest in a diaper genie so you don't stink up your trash! Check out Baby Cheapskate for constant deals and sales!
5. ALTERNATE SEATING: Lastly I would invest in one more place you can put your baby down comfortably during the day (You should only use their crib for sleep) like a swing chair that might play music, a baby gym perfect for tummy time too or even a baby lounging pillow (an easy DIY!).
   
   Check out this baby lounger from Amazon. Would be easy to make your own too!

**Another money saving tip for new parents: buy everything in neutral colours so they can be used again if you're planning (or there might be a chance of) a second or third baby!

Having a baby shower? It's a great way to scoop up the last of those things you need for baby and of course some of those not-so-necessary, but oh-so-cute items too! Start your baby registry on Amazon where you can add items from anywhere rather than being limited to just one store or brand!

You also get 10% off items on your list 30 days before baby is due so you can get a great deal on any of those things that weren't already snatched up by guests. (Sign up for Amazon Moms and bump that up to 15% off, Free to sign up if you have Amazon Prime!) And Amazon baby registry is also great because it offers FREE-90 day returns for those things you changed your mind on- and with pregnancy brain and mood swings let's face it, it's likely to happen!

Easy Banana Pudding Recipe

Nanny's Banana Pudding Recipe

I can't really believe we're already part way through July, this summer seems to be flying by! Now that the boy and I are mostly settled into our new home (which I'm obsessed with by the way) I thought it was time to bring out one of my family favourite cool treats to enjoy this summer! My grandmother (or Nanny as she is known to me) gave me this recipe, she's been making it my whole life for Christmas time and my father and I's birthdays. It never last long in our family and fights would break out over the coveted last scoop- it's that good. Here's what you'll need:

• One box Vanilla wafers
• One box vanilla pudding (serves 4)
• One can condensed milk (14 oz)
• Cool Whip (12 oz- thawed)
• 3-4 Bananas 
• Lemon juice

1. In a large bowl mix 1 1/2 cups cold water and the condensed milk. Mix well. Then add in the vanilla pudding mix. Mix then chill in fridge for 5 minutes. *Make sure your cool whip is setting out during this time to let it thaw otherwise it'll be harder to mix!

2. While the mixture is chilling, fill a small ramekin with lemon juice. Slice up your bananas (* I suggest getting them right when they are perfectly yellow otherwise they are a bit too mushy- mine were a little ripe but hey, I was set on making this pudding!) Dip your bananas in the lemon juice, coating both sides and place on extra plate to dry, this not only adds a lemony zest to the pudding later but will keep your bananas from going brown.

3. Remove the pudding from the fridge and fold in the cool whip, making sure to mix well and get out any lumps.

4. Scoop 1 cup (or about 1/3) of the pudding mix into a fresh bowl. 

5. Layer vanilla wafers on top, then a layer of bananas (1/2 of your cut slices). Top with another 1/3 of pudding and repeat the layering process again. 

6. Finish with the last 1/3 of pudding and you're finished! Cover and let chill in the fridge for at least an hour before you dig in! 

ENJOY!

Smart Maternity Buys

Stretch Your Wardrobe Further!

If you're anything like me I didn't really feel like dropping a wad of cash on maternity clothes that would only last me a couple months each and then when the nine month time is up they'd be completely retired...until (and if) you have another baby but who knows by then they might even be out of style! Well there is a sneaky way around this problem. Two in fact, not only can you stretch the time you can wear your clothes you owned pre-pregnancy longer, but follow a few helpful tips to purchase new clothes that will see you through your pregnancy and you can keep sporting long after that baby weight has melted away!

I went through my whole closet and pulled out all my clothes that I knew would last me through out the pregnancy already so I could see exactly what I had to work with and what I needed to add. I had a couple empire waist dresses, a couple skirts, and a handful of baggy shirts I used to wear belted. If you were fortunate like me most my jeans (except a couple recently) still fit, but if not don't fret! You can pick up a Belly Band, I got mine at Target, and they help your normal jeans last longer into pregnancy by covering and holding up jeans that are too tight to button any longer. Leggings are also great with long tunics or dresses that your bump has made considerably shorter than normal! But other than a few key pieces to make your life easier there really isn't any need to buy 'maternity' clothes what so ever!

1. Look for fabric with give- jersey and other fabric blends with spandex are great options because they can grow with you and your belly, but still will be fitted once your back to your pre-baby bod.

I picked this little number up at Nordstrom Rack and love the way it hugs my baby bump!

2. Favor empire waist lines and princess cuts- empire waistlines are a given for pregnant woman everywhere accentuating your new lovely lady lumps and leaving plenty of room for baby; but princess cuts are another great alternative to spice up your wardrobe. 

I grabbed this princess cut dress at Old Navy for $30. It was flattering in the first half of pregnancy and hid my bump and now in the second half it's still comfortable and accommodates my growing tummy.

3. Maxi skirts and dresses are your friend- maxi skirts you can hike up to above your belly and sport all summer long, and nothing makes you feel better than throwing on a maxi dress that hugs or covers your baby bump. They instantly make you feel prettier and they feel just like wearing pajamas which when your pregnant is the ultimate goal!

I also picked this maxi up at Old Navy before our Babymoon and love it! It is so comfortable 

and I know it will be something I will wear long after pregnancy. 

4. Flowy tops- I had a plethora of these in my pre-pregnancy wardrobe that I converted over to my maternity days. They can be belted above the belly in your starting stages and left as is in your last few months. 

This flawy top I owned before pregnancy and would wear it with a cream belt around my waist, it is now perfect as-is for the hot summer days and has plenty more room to expand!

5. Comfy tees- Before my pregnancy I wasn't really one for wearing tees (other than sporting to bed) but when you're dealing with fatigue, cramps and other fun pregnancy woes a comfy tee may be just what you need! Soft fabric and extra long length are great factors to the perfect pregnancy tee.

Here are two of my favourite tees from Target, the comfy fabric makes it a sure casual go to

on my not so great pregnancy days and perfect for around the house.

None of these clothes are maternity clothes and will last me to full term pregnancy and will definitely keep a home in my closet for my wardrobe as a mommy afterwards! Stick to these simple guidelines and take the stress out of maternity shopping and save those extra bucks for diapers in the near future because let's face it- you'll need it!

First Trimester Wrap Up!

Baby is the size of a peach!

Baby has vocal cords, teeth and even little finger prints! The first trimester is notorious for being extremely hard and pretty much the most miserable time of pregnancy, fortunately I had no such experience! I didn't have any morning sickness or even nausea, in fact most of my first trimester I didn't even know I was pregnant! 

Symptoms: Headaches, extreme fatigue, crazy realistic dreams and an occasional bloody nose! Other than that I felt perfectly normal, it was really hard to believe I had a baby growing inside me!

Cravings: Soup- Any kind. Any time.  And sandwiches, I think I mostly just craved the bread which I normally don't eat but since finding out I'm pregnant I'm all about the carbs!

Weight Gain: I gained 11 pounds in the first trimester which was very alarming to me considering that's already half of the suggested weight gain for the whole pregnancy! But truth be told I think most of the weight went straight to my chest I went from an A to a D! Which made all my fitted tops impossible to wear from the get go!!

Maternity Clothes:  None yet, but I did have to buy a new bra. I also bought some cute maternity dresses from Target that I'm excited to get to wear but so far my jeans all fit and flowy, stretchy tops I already own

Baby is a. . . :  Not sure yet, but I am dying to know! The boy and I both thought it was a boy in the beginning (he being the oldest of five boys and his whole extended blood-related family is literally all men- so it just seemed like it was inevitable!) but now we both have strong feelings of a girl- so we shall see! 

Baby is Due. . . : Our given due date is October 20th, but if baby is a bit late they might be born on their Uncle Gage's birthday!

Spreading the News: We told our parents first, then let our close friends know. I had to tell my boss because eventually it would mean I would be leaving to stay home with my own baby. Soon after we announced it to our family and friends that had been invited to our reception which would now be cancelled, because the timing wasn't great and we figured there were many more things we could put the money towards for the baby over food and dancing. Then finally, announced to everyone on Facebook! 

Do Strangers notice: Not yet! Although within the same week I got comments from two servers at different restaurants, the first one said "She sure knows how to eat!" and the second one said, "You need to eat more and fatten up!" They both were funny considering our new news. 

Baby Buys: The only thing we have bought so far is the cutest stuffed giraffe and a turquoise polka dot bow that could used either be for a bow tie or a hair bow! 

Preparing for Baby: We're looking to move when our lease is up at the end of July we will need an extra bedroom now for baby! 

1/3 of the Way Done!

DIY Ring Box

A Special Little Touch for Your Big Day. . .

The boy's youngest brother was our ring bearer and I wanted him to have something special and fun to hold our rings in down the aisle! 

I picked up a tiny wooden box at Michaels, they had a few to choose from that were on clearance for $1.99! I chose one with a cutout on the top because I already had an idea of what I wanted to do with it. I had a very light brown paint that I did one coat on the whole box, so it was like a light stain. I was going for a vintage look to match with our overall look. 

There are so many things you could do with it, I considered painting the whole box one of our wedding accent colours, you could mode podge a continuing pattern through out your wedding or do several coats to give the box a dark finish. Just make it yours!

I painted the indented space on top of the box with our accent colour yellow. After everything dried I used a scrap of lace from my wedding dress and glued it on the top. I used our other wedding colour, coral, and filled the box with a scrap of textured fabrics leaving two little holes where the rings would go!



It was the perfect little touch to our big day and Jack, the boy's youngest brother looked absolutely adorable carrying it!

DIY Fabric Flower Bouquet

Keep Your Wedding Flowers Forever

For those of you who don't know me I am both ridiculously sentimental and crafty, so going any other route with my bridal bouquet just wasn't an option. I made my own out of fabric flowers, which given my past career (and forever hobby as a designer) it only seemed appropriate. It also meant I got to include tons of vintage brooches that were my grandmothers to boot AND it would preserve perfectly forever so it can serve as the ultimate keepsake from our wedding day! 

You don't have to be crafty to make your own, it was a lot of fun to play around with until I got it how I liked it. Here's a list of supplies that I used but the options are endless!

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

• Hot Glue Gun
• Glue Sticks
• Fabrics in colours and many options of your choice
• Twine or ribbon of choice
• a button or bead to match your theme
• A wiffle ball (I got mine at the dollar store)
• A triangular structure- I used a party blower (again from the dollar store)
• Faux greenery (Dollar Store)

EXTRAS TO ADD

• jewels or beads
• feathers
• brooches, pins or buttons
• pearls or ribbon
• you could even use fake flowers to make it easier!

STEP BY STEP:

1. I stuffed the party blower with scraps of fabric until it was full so it would feel stiff to the touch and not flimsy. 
2. Hot glue the rim of the party blower and stick on the wiffle ball. Let Dry to be secure.
3. Starting from the bottom or wherever you want your ribbon/twine to show (I did mine 1/3 of the way up) hot glue gun a circle for the first wrap. Let dry. Pull taught each time you wrap it around the cone and secure with a dot or line of glue every couple of wraps. Push down the ribbon/twine each time to insure there won't be spacing or gaping later!
4. If you choose to have faux greenery- I think it's great to break up the flowers and make it look more natural. hot glue the bottoms and place them through the wiffle ball and glued securely to the top of the cone or the bottom of the wiffle ball depending on how yours is set on. This is why I loved using wiffle balls for the inside because I prefer smaller bouquets so it was a great size to start with and the holes helped with spacing and securing flowers later!
5. Next if you've chosen to make your own fabric flowers get started! There are tons of different ways to do it. Here are several great tutorials for different kinds of flowers from Skip to My Lou to help you get started. When in doubt cut out several round shapes from one or two similar fabrics and put a dot of glue in the center of the circle and glue it to another circle. Do this to several circle all being glued to the same bottom layer until it's as full as you like! Experiment and have fun with it. Different fabrics will give you different looks too! Not feeling so crafty? Forego the fabric and you can buy a variety of fake flowers you like instead and skip this step all together!                          
6. Here is an optional step. Break out all your trimmings and details! I put something special in the middle of each one of my flowers. I alternated between vintage buttons, my grandmother's brooches, rhinestones and pearls! It gave it that extra something meaningful and a little bling never hurt anyone either!
7. Next is the placement of everything! Play around with it a little until you get it just how you want it! Then stick the "stems" into the wiffle ball holes or glue the flat bottom flower to the sides filling in the gaps as you go! Don't be afraid to rearrange it, I took mine apart a couple different times until I got it just the way I wanted!
8. If you didn't use your ribbon/thread for the entirety of the handle now's the time to fill in the remaining part with whichever trimming you choose. I picked a thick cream ribbon that had been from my Grandmother's sewing things. It was the perfect vintage and bridal touch I was looking for! For the bridesmaid flower bouquets I just did the twine all the way through.
9. Now, that it's almost complete you need to stop up that party blower bottom, you're not going to be blowing on your bouquet so no one even needs to know it's there! For my bridesmaids I picked the perfect sized rhinestones to finish off the bottom with a sparkle, and for my own I used a pearl!
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
10. You can finish them off anyway you like! I added pearl bracelets to my bridesmaids bouquets so they could keep them afterward and a touch of yellow with a ribbon. On my own I glued on white feather plums and draped a strand of my mother's pearls to add to the vintage vibe!

I had a lot of fun making these and they are so easy to personalize and make special in a lot of different ways from recreating your favourite flower, using touches of your bridesmaids favourite colour or like me using pieces from family members to incorporate! 

8 Days and Counting!