Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Sassy Summer Nails

Pretty nails are always a must, and something you can indulge in even at the peak of pregnancy.  Whether you do it yourself or can't reach your toes and need a pedi, here are a few shades to inspire you.


My friend chose this one to wear on her toes on her wedding day; what a beautifully unexpected bridal hue!


Nothing flaunts a tan like a bright red/orange hue!  This one will get you noticed!

Earn some street cred with the playground set with this youthful blue shade featuring a heavy dose of glitter!


Monday, June 28, 2010

Safety Seat

We just scored the convertible car seat I've been eying for a bargain!  With our little one starting Parents Day Out this summer, we need two seats so either parent can do drop off or pick up without swapping the seat out. 

I've been researching online and decided that the Safety 1st Air Protect is the one we want.  It accomodates infants/toddlers/children 5 - 50 lbs and you can keep them rear facing (safest) up to 35 lbs.  I also like the "air" pillows that cradle both sides of the head, she's much more comfortable napping in it because her head doesn't loll about like it does in our old seat.  It usually runs between $179 and $239 and can be found at Target and Babies R Us.  This weekend at Babies R Us, they had the "Harvest" color on sale for $119!  What a deal!

Not a bad item to buy or register for now, as they will be outgrowing the infant carrier before you know it!

I asked Stella yesterday what she thought of her new seat and she said "Love It!"


Friday, June 25, 2010

Inspiration Outfit

I caught a post on Refinery 29 last week about bloggers and their favorite summer outfits.  This one from Annabel of Blushing Ambition really caught my eye.  I LOVE a white dress for summer and this look is easily interpreted for maternity.
Here are some suggestions to help you re-create her ethereal outfit:




Thanks for the inspiration, Annabel!


Thursday, June 24, 2010

Get your body back


During my first pregnancy I had several experienced mothers tell me to use a girdle after I delivered.  I was pretty appalled - I hate constrictive clothing and besides, isn't that what diet and exercise are for? 

Well, a week after my C-Section I ventured out to find something to put everything back where it belonged.  The trying on phase was excrutiating, but when I found the right piece of shapewear I felt so much better!  I bought both colors in this Spanx shaper and wore them constantly, whether out and about or kicking back with baby they were my constant companions.  After about 8 weeks my body was nearly back to normal and I retired the shapers. 

Trust me, this isn't just a vanity thing, the remainder of your baby belly is pretty uncomfortable especially if you had a C-section. 

I would advise to go ahead and buy something like this while you are expecting so that you'll have it ready after delivery.  Just buy a size up from your regular pre-pregnancy size to allow for your baby belly. 


Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Neiman Marcus "Maternity"

So, Neimans lured me in with an extra 25% off sale items today.  While I was browsing their site, I found a ton of contemporary maternity cuteness.

Here's a sample:

 Patteson J. Kincaid is one of my favorite moderately priced contemporary brands right now.
I love their stuff!


I would love this with leggings and gladiators.  

Okay, so Neiman's calls it a dress.  For an adorable maternity look, pair it with chic cropped skinny jeans.


Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Pretty Precious

These little terrariums and planters make me so happy.  These would make excellent gifts or just a little slice of sweetness for you to enjoy. 





These can be found on http://www.etsy.com/ from seller "Monkeys Always Look".



Blanky Bliss

As a new mom, you will be given a ton of blankets.  If you get these, you won't have much use for the others!  These generously proportioned muslin beauties serve a multitude of purposes: swaddling, covering, wiping, drying and peek a boo!  They are thin and stretchy, making them great for swaddling.  When we attempted swaddling with most "receiving" blankets, they were too small for our healthy sized little one; these are a good 10 inches larger making them the perfect choice.  Their breezy breathability ensures your baby won't burn up in them, even during hot summer months.  They come in a multitude of chic prints (I like the black and white) so you can use them for your child as they grow without looking like a baby blanket.   





Monday, June 21, 2010

What to Feed Your Little One

I came across this article on www.BabyCenter.com about super foods to feed your children.  I am no dietitian, but I am passionate about eating healthy and teaching my little one to do the same.  One thing I have learned about children is that they will eat what you feed them.  If you offer them healthy foods, they will eat them.  If you give them sweets and junk food to choose from, they will develop a palate for those foods and forgo the healthy choices.

1. Avocado
The only vegetable laced with monounsaturated "good" fats that may lower "bad" LDL cholesterol that can harm the heart, avocado is also a super source of soluble fiber, which helps stabilize blood sugar. And it's full of vitamin E, which protects your cells from free radicals.

2. Blueberries
Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants — substances that slow the body's release of chemicals that can damage cells — blueberries can help lower cholesterol, sharpen memory, and fight certain cancers. These little fruits offer big health benefits, whether fresh or frozen.

3. Oats
These mild-tasting, versatile whole grains help prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes, will keep your child feeling full, and aid in escorting bad cholesterol out of the body.

4. Salmon
This cold-water fish contains healthful fats known as omega-3s that can lower the risk of heart disease. These nutrients may also help improve mood and prevent memory loss.

5. Spinach
An excellent source of iron, calcium, and folic acid, along with vitamins A and C, spinach is great for growing bones and brains.

6. Sweet Potatoes
Packed with vitamins B, C, and E, plus calcium, potassium, and iron, sweet potatoes are also rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber, which keeps digestion moving along properly.

7. Yogurt
Rich in calcium and a good source of protein, yogurt helps build strong bones and teeth. It also aids in digestion and fights bad bacteria in the gut.

Buy plain low-fat yogurt and add your own fresh or frozen fruit to it. That way, you'll avoid the sugar that's in flavored yogurts. It's so creamy and comforting that most kids go for it.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Something Pretty

This would be a beautiful, breezy choice to wear to a cocktail party, dinner or a shower.  I love the 4 beautiful prints that are available today on http://www.ideeli.com/


Thursday, June 17, 2010

Maternity Jeans

 No matter the time of year, a girl always has to have some denim in her rotation!  Now I am a premium denim fan in my real life, but as far as maternity jeans go I just won't drop $175 for a pair I will only wear for a few months.  My favorite wallet-friendly maternity jeans come from the Gap.  I have purchased several different styles online and am happy with all of them.  Here are a few current favorites from their site:

The Long and Leans are a great bootcut classic that you can wear to work or on weekends. 



These are a perfectly sleek balance to your more flowy, tunic style tops.


Thursday, June 10, 2010

Scent Envy

When I'm pregnant, my sense of smell tends to get all wonky.  My Hermes Eau des Merveilles scent (usually a favorite) absolutely turns my stomach these days.  During my last pregnancy, the scent of gardenias made me sick.  In perusing my fragrance collection today, nothing inspired me... until I passed by my Capri Blue Volcano candle.  I was seized with the urge to rub it all over my body.  I refrained, but it leaves me pining for a bottle of perfume in Capri Blue Volcano fragrance.  I may have to start toting it around with me, my bag would smell great!



Do you have any pregnancy scent aversions or addictions?  Please share!

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Utilitarian Chic

I just spoke with an electrician who was toting this covetable bag.  I think it would make an adorable overnight bag or all-purpose tote!  He said he got his at an electrical supply store and he's had it for years!  I asked if it had pockets and he opened it to reveal matching canvas zipper pouches inside, so cool! 

                                            





Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Baby, It's HOT Outside!

As the temps climb quickly this summer (over 100 in Dallas already) I am looking for ways to stay cool.  A maternal glow is desirable, but flat out perspiration isn't pretty.  To beat the heat throughout the day, I use this Evian Mineral Mist.  The travel size packs easily in my purse or diaper bag and it always comes out cool!  My little one loves the cool mist as well and makes the cutest squinchy face when she's about to be misted.  At about $6.00 for the travel size, this defines affordable luxury!

Monday, June 7, 2010

Black Tie for my bump?

A fellow expectant mommy emailed me today with a very good question about what to wear to a black tie event.  She'll be in her second trimester during the event, so her bump will be emerging but not portruding too far at that point! 

My first suggestion is this pink drink of water by basix that I came across on http://www.ideeli.com/


Show off your still-sensual shoulders in this Marchesa Notte stunner:

Float on a cloud of swirling ombre silk:


Capitalize on that maternal "glow" with this gorgeous neutral:

This beautiful bargain will take you well into your 3rd trimester: