Monday, January 12, 2015

Favorite Things: Pregnancy Edition

My previous "favorite things" post on baby items got a lot of great reviews last year, so I thought I'd put a list together of my favorite pregnancy items so far. Just like with baby gear, I realize everyone has their own opinion and preference, but these are a few of my favorites...

1. Snoogle body pillow- $54.99
Now I know what you're thinking. That is a very expensive pillow. Especially considering the fact I also got the cover for easy washing. BUT I have had sleeping issues since early on in this pregnancy. With an active toddler, that didn't leave much time during the day to rest and catch up. I needed something that would keep me on my side comfortably as I usually ended up on my back. This pillow has been so amazing and comfortable and has given me better sleep than I imagined. It's easier to manipulate than using multiple pillows; however, it is also larger and bulkier. All in all, I highly recommend it if you're having issues with sleep during your pregnancy.

2. Burt's Bees Mama Bee belly butter- $12.99
This was recommended to me by a friend early in my pregnancy- basically as soon as I started growing. I've since used it everyday and love it. It goes on super smooth, has minimal scent and is made of natural ingredients. Stretch marks are really genetic, so there is no miracle cure that will keep you from getting them if it's in your genes, but I feel good knowing that I'm staying moisturized and giving my body every bit of help I can. So far, I haven't had any stretch marks, but honestly, I could be covered head to toe in stretch marks and not care less.
 3. My Neti pot- $10.99
I actually listed this as one of my favorite things several years ago, but pregnancy is giving it all new meaning. Sinus issues are common during pregnancy and I have definitely seen my share. I had a nasty cold a couple weeks ago and my neti pot was pretty much my only option if I wanted to stay med free. I did it almost every hour when it was really bad and now I've just been doing it once or twice a day to keep my sinuses clear.

4. Breathe Right nasal strips-$8.43
These go along with #3 above. I started using these when I was sick and couldn't breathe at night. I would use my neti pot and then put on one of these stylish bad boys and I was good to go for the night.
5. Bracoo maternity support belt- $13.60
Speaking of style... ok kidding, but seriously this has been such a lifesaver. I have been having a lot of pain in my lower back- mainly due to bending, squatting and carrying our sweet big brother around. The husband helps out a lot when he's home, but he does have a job which leaves me chasing after and carrying Finn most days. This belt has really helped support my back and leaves me with less pain in the evenings- which is when I would usually feel it the most. You can wear it over a tank top but under your clothes so that nobody can even see it if you're in public. Usually at home, I don't really care, so I look like I'm continually moving couches all day.
6. Target BeMaternity BeBands- $16.99
This is Target's version of the BellaBand. Same concept, cheaper price point. I have used both and really can't tell a difference. I actually bought a few of these the very first time I was pregnant several years ago and have gotten my use out of them this time around. I was able to extend the life of my regular pants and jeans much longer than I would have without them. They will also come in handy post-pregnancy to hopefully get me back in those same jeans sooner :)

So that's it for now. I am also compiling a list of a few of my favorites for having a second baby so stay tuned for that.
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Thursday, January 8, 2015

Christmas wrap-up

Since we're a week into 2015, I figured I ought to post the last of our Christmas pictures. The Tuesday before Christmas, we packed up and headed to Aiken to celebrate with my family for a few days. We soaked up every minute of our last Christmas with just this little guy. I did a poor job of documenting everything in pictures this time around, but that's just what happens when you're 29 weeks pregnant and chasing around an active toddler. Here are a couple pics I manage to capture...

We went to the candlelight Christmas eve service at my parents' church.

Our little reindeer.


 Not so bright and early on Christmas morning.

 On Christmas, we drink out of festive cups.


 Nonna with Finn.
 This happy boy makes my heart smile.

 Our attempt at getting a picture in front of the tree of Christmas morning.




The day after Christmas, we packed up from there and headed down to Orlando to spend some time in the warm weather with Dustin's fam. I am so sad at the lack of pictures I took, but that is just how it goes when there is so much activity going on with 6 grand kids 9 and under. We were able to spend quite a bit of time at the pools since it was warm and beautiful outside.
 We went to Magic Kingdom for a day and left Finn back with Oma, Opa and his cousin Colton so we could enjoy some time with the "big kids". We also spent the afternoon with Dustin's sister and the four oldest kiddos but again the phone or camera never got pulled out for pics.
 Resting up during lunch.

So glad we got to spend the day with Dustin's brother and his wife. We are even more excited that they will be welcoming a sweet baby in June just a few months after our newest arrival!


We all spent the day at Sea World together and this also happened to be the only day that it rained.



 Love these boys! Can't wait to add another one in just 10 short weeks!
 
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