4 months post baby and I have had about zero motivation. I did start doing the Jillian Michaels Week Shred dvds which are crazy by the way. But I wasn't eating as great as I could have. I did that for about 2 weeks then stopped. Not sure why, I just did.
With great timing my awesome sister in law posted on Facebook that she ordered this workout called " piyo". So my curious self texted her ASAP to get the scoop. She told me it is a high intensity, low impact mix of pilates and yoga. She also ordered Shakeology, which I have wanted to try for years!!! Long story short she convinced me to get it. It was on sale too so I saved about $30 or so buying the Piyo/shakes package. Woot woot!! I also signed up to be a Coach. You get a 25% discount on all Beachbody products and make some extra money if you want. But you can totally not sell anything and just get discounts if you want!! Uhhhh, ok!
A week later it finally came!!! Finally! I couldn't wait to put Corbin to bed so I could work out !! I made a shake for dinner by using one of the recipes from the book. Chocolate Shakeology, peanut butter and banana, it was delish!!!
Shakeology is a powdered shake product. You get a month of shakes per bag. They have 4 different flavors but I hear the chocolate was the best. So that's what I got. The shakes help you lose weight, improve your digestion, reduce cravings and increase energy and stamina. They have tons of protein, amino acids, antioxidants, superfoods, probiotics and enzymes. As wells as super-greens and herbs.
1 shake has the nutrition of
- 3 cups of romaine lettuce
-4 cups of raw mushrooms
- 1 shot of wheatgrass
- 1 bowl of exotic fruit
- 3 onions
- 7 raw carrots
- 4 cups of yogurt
- 4 cups of red radishes
- 4 cups of raw broccoli
- 1 cup of peas
- 10 cups of raw cauliflower
holy moly!!!
Piyo is perfect who wants to burn fat and tone the whole body. Your moving the whole time and only use your bodyweight. No jumping around like a frog and no pounding on your knees . Its cardio and strength training at the same time. Your moving the whole time and it doesn't take over 45 minutes. Most are 30 min, if that. Which is great when Corbin decides to only naps for 30 minutes instead of 2 hours :( im so excited for this program. I feel like it is so doable and actually something that I will stick with.
I may never get back to my size 1 jeans and I am ok with that. I just want to tone and to lose the belly jiggle ;)
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Friday, May 23, 2014
Losing the baby weight - 1 month post partum
Starting from a pre pregnancy weight of 118lbs and being a size 3/5, my body now is not ideal. I unfortunately am not one of those " I am women, hear me roar " types. I can't look in the mirror and be okay with the size I am. All of those blog posts you see about women being proud of their stretch marks and flabby skin that hangs over their jeans, they are completely fine with the body they have now. Which is great, I'm not hating. Me? No way.
1. I have always been kinda small and kinda in shape.
2. I don't see how having 20+ excess weight is healthy. It's not.
3. I could never be confident and feel good, let alone feel hot. I never want to give up and let myself go just because " I'm a mom, and I'm busy ". I want my husband to be proud of how I look and I want him to be attracted to me. Now some of you may not agree with my view on this and that's fine. I don't think there is anything wrong with wanting to feel attractive for someone else. Why not strive to be better and want more? Why not work hard so you can say that you're in the best shape of your life and be a mom? Why not strive to be a milf? I read so many blogs about women saying stuff about their stretch marks or loose skin or their hair, any other women comment saying " oh your a mom now" as to have that be an excuse ? That bothers me.
So now 5 weeks after giving birth I weigh 135 and I just bought size 9 jeans the other day. Note to self, shopping blows now. Your body is so different now. Its a completely different shape and everything that use to look good now just looks awkward. I will admit that there has been some tears shed in the fitting room. I honestly don't know if I will get back to my pre pregnancy body. I now have bigger hips and thighs that came out of nowhere, and boobs, which I'm not mad about. Hourglass figure? Sign me up! What I'm going to be working on is the stomach and arms mainly. Oh and the butt :) I just want to tone everything and lose fat where I need to. Not be stick thin, just be healthy and in shape. I want to try on clothes without needing a shot of tequila afterwards.
THE PLAN
I'm pretty sure I am going to start with a Jillian Michaels workout. 30 day shred is what I am going to start with. Then move to Ripped in 20, also a Jillian. Her killer buns and thighs is a great workout to add in. It's intense and you will feel so sore the next day. Like hurts to move sore. But it works really well! I'm going to build back up to Insanity, since there is no point to try it anytime soon. Corbin loves going on walks so I will continue to do that every day.
THE FOOD
Not peanut butter and jelly sandwiches everyday with side of cheetos...that's been the diet lately. Easy and quick. I'm going to have to make the time to prep my meals and lay off the sweet tea. Uhg torture! Also since I'm breastfeeding I need to add more protein and calcium to my diet. Since Corbin has tummy issues anything gassy, super acidic and milk based I have to stay away from. So that adds another task.
Pictures will be on my 2 month update. Before and afters. Oh boy !!
1. I have always been kinda small and kinda in shape.
2. I don't see how having 20+ excess weight is healthy. It's not.
3. I could never be confident and feel good, let alone feel hot. I never want to give up and let myself go just because " I'm a mom, and I'm busy ". I want my husband to be proud of how I look and I want him to be attracted to me. Now some of you may not agree with my view on this and that's fine. I don't think there is anything wrong with wanting to feel attractive for someone else. Why not strive to be better and want more? Why not work hard so you can say that you're in the best shape of your life and be a mom? Why not strive to be a milf? I read so many blogs about women saying stuff about their stretch marks or loose skin or their hair, any other women comment saying " oh your a mom now" as to have that be an excuse ? That bothers me.
So now 5 weeks after giving birth I weigh 135 and I just bought size 9 jeans the other day. Note to self, shopping blows now. Your body is so different now. Its a completely different shape and everything that use to look good now just looks awkward. I will admit that there has been some tears shed in the fitting room. I honestly don't know if I will get back to my pre pregnancy body. I now have bigger hips and thighs that came out of nowhere, and boobs, which I'm not mad about. Hourglass figure? Sign me up! What I'm going to be working on is the stomach and arms mainly. Oh and the butt :) I just want to tone everything and lose fat where I need to. Not be stick thin, just be healthy and in shape. I want to try on clothes without needing a shot of tequila afterwards.
THE PLAN
I'm pretty sure I am going to start with a Jillian Michaels workout. 30 day shred is what I am going to start with. Then move to Ripped in 20, also a Jillian. Her killer buns and thighs is a great workout to add in. It's intense and you will feel so sore the next day. Like hurts to move sore. But it works really well! I'm going to build back up to Insanity, since there is no point to try it anytime soon. Corbin loves going on walks so I will continue to do that every day.
THE FOOD
Not peanut butter and jelly sandwiches everyday with side of cheetos...that's been the diet lately. Easy and quick. I'm going to have to make the time to prep my meals and lay off the sweet tea. Uhg torture! Also since I'm breastfeeding I need to add more protein and calcium to my diet. Since Corbin has tummy issues anything gassy, super acidic and milk based I have to stay away from. So that adds another task.
Pictures will be on my 2 month update. Before and afters. Oh boy !!
Friday Fitness - Booty and Arms
TGIF !!!! Right??
Maybe for you. For my mom self it's just another day, another dollar. But it's another day of being healthy! It's been almost 2 weeks since I started really eating healthy and working out. Stay tuned for my 2 month update, which is next week! I will also have a food post coming!
Tonight I kinda made my own workout and I'm exhausted. Here is what I did.
YouTube the moves if you aren't familiar with them, but I think they are pretty popular so hopefully you don't have to.
50 Bridge with leg raise ( 25 each leg )
100 Squats
100 Donkey Kicks ( 50 each leg )
50 Standing Kickbacks both legs
50 Lunges both legs
25 Jumping Jacks
25 secs of wide football stance
3 reps of
12 Bicep Curls
12 Overhead Press
12 Side Raises
12 Hammer Curls
Plank for 30 seconds
Don't forget to stretch before and after!!
If you try this let me know what you think and how you did!
Thanks for reading!!
Ash
Instagram - ashleybellaXO
Pinterest- ashley beidler
Maybe for you. For my mom self it's just another day, another dollar. But it's another day of being healthy! It's been almost 2 weeks since I started really eating healthy and working out. Stay tuned for my 2 month update, which is next week! I will also have a food post coming!
Tonight I kinda made my own workout and I'm exhausted. Here is what I did.
YouTube the moves if you aren't familiar with them, but I think they are pretty popular so hopefully you don't have to.
50 Bridge with leg raise ( 25 each leg )
100 Squats
100 Donkey Kicks ( 50 each leg )
50 Standing Kickbacks both legs
50 Lunges both legs
25 Jumping Jacks
25 secs of wide football stance
3 reps of
12 Bicep Curls
12 Overhead Press
12 Side Raises
12 Hammer Curls
Plank for 30 seconds
Don't forget to stretch before and after!!
If you try this let me know what you think and how you did!
Thanks for reading!!
Ash
Instagram - ashleybellaXO
Pinterest- ashley beidler
Monday, April 28, 2014
What I actually used from my labor hospital bag
First time mom here. Which means I research everything. I can't tell you how many blogs I read talking about what to bring to the hospital. Most blogs seemed normal while others talked about bringing your entire house. I brought what I'd thought I would use and a few " comforts from home". So lets talk about what you actually use and what you don't need.
What I brought
Travel bag of toiletries and makeup
* I used my shampoo and conditioner, face wipes, moisturizer, toothbrush and toothpaste and deodorant
* I did not use any makeup lol its not that I didn't have time, I did. I just didn't really care. Yes there were lots of pictures. Did I look super amazing? No, I just pushed a 7.5 lb bowling ball out my hooha and I was kinda busy staring at him all day.
Clothing
* nursing bra, 2 tops, 2 pairs of pants, socks and a hoodie
* I did not use the nursing bra. I stayed in the gown they provided cuz your going to bleed.... alot. I'm glad I brought options of tops and pants. I wore the baggy pants and the loose top with the hoodie.
* My room was hot so I didn't need a robe or slippers or anything like that.
* I wore their gown and the underwear they provide. I didn't feel the need to use a nursing bra or top, or have a nursing cover. I mean everyone has seen your lady bits already so I didn't care to be discreet. What's the point? I also only had Corey and the moms there so it didn't matter to me.
Baby Stuff
* socks, mittens, wubbanub pacifier, 2 outfits and 2 blankets
* I did not use the mittens or socks.
Dad Stuff
* We used everything he brought
* He said bringing a cooler with drinks and snacks was a great idea. He wished he brought more drinks though.
* The hospital will have extra blankets and pillows so don't bring yours.
Hope this helps some!!! And remember, the hospital has to be prepared for a women to walk in randomly and be in labor. They are pretty stocked with what you really need.
Next up is post partum care and recovery
What I brought
Travel bag of toiletries and makeup
* I used my shampoo and conditioner, face wipes, moisturizer, toothbrush and toothpaste and deodorant
* I did not use any makeup lol its not that I didn't have time, I did. I just didn't really care. Yes there were lots of pictures. Did I look super amazing? No, I just pushed a 7.5 lb bowling ball out my hooha and I was kinda busy staring at him all day.
Clothing
* nursing bra, 2 tops, 2 pairs of pants, socks and a hoodie
* I did not use the nursing bra. I stayed in the gown they provided cuz your going to bleed.... alot. I'm glad I brought options of tops and pants. I wore the baggy pants and the loose top with the hoodie.
* My room was hot so I didn't need a robe or slippers or anything like that.
* I wore their gown and the underwear they provide. I didn't feel the need to use a nursing bra or top, or have a nursing cover. I mean everyone has seen your lady bits already so I didn't care to be discreet. What's the point? I also only had Corey and the moms there so it didn't matter to me.
Baby Stuff
* socks, mittens, wubbanub pacifier, 2 outfits and 2 blankets
* I did not use the mittens or socks.
Dad Stuff
* We used everything he brought
* He said bringing a cooler with drinks and snacks was a great idea. He wished he brought more drinks though.
* The hospital will have extra blankets and pillows so don't bring yours.
Hope this helps some!!! And remember, the hospital has to be prepared for a women to walk in randomly and be in labor. They are pretty stocked with what you really need.
Next up is post partum care and recovery
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Welcome to the world little guy - Corbin Michael
Our little monkey is finally here and has been here for about 3 weeks now. I have been meaning to get to this post but having a newborn is more time consuming then I would have ever imagined. Good time consuming though :) So if you read my last post then you know that I was being induced on the 26th of March. So I knew he was coming that day, which was great for me since most of my anxiety about labor was the unknown and wondering when it was going to happen. I'm a planner and this was perfect for me. To get on with this post, here is my labor and delivery story. Don't worry I will spare you all the details of grossness :)
The day before Corey took off work so we could do last minute stuff. We cleaned and organized and ran a couple errands. It was a pretty normal day. I asked my friend Juliana if she would take some maternity pictures for me. So She met Corey and I at the location where we got married. I thought it would be super cute to go there and then when Corbin is a bit older we would go back and take pictures again. I love those " same place different times of your life" type pictures. I will do a post with those next. That night I took a shower, washed my hair since we were getting up early. Went to bed as our last night as just me and Corey. Feeling fine all day might I add. Fast forward to 2am and I start having some pretty bad contractions. I timed them using this app on my phone. They lasted all night but were never really consistent enough, at least that's what I thought. Also I wasn't too worried about them since I knew I was going to the hospital in the morning anyway. By early morning they were about 3-8 minutes apart and were last a little over a minute.
Morning came pretty fast. We got ready, loaded the bags in the car and headed down the street. We live literally right beside the hospital. We checked in right at 8am and they took us to our room. I remember feeling kinda calm, nervous, anxious all at once. I changed into the gown they give you and then the nurses asked me 10 million questions. They hooked me up the the blood pressure and the belly monitors for the baby, and they started the IV. Around 9:30 is when they started the pitocin and I was already on some fluids too. I expected to feel the pitocin but I didn't which calmed my nerves. I was already having strong contractions so I thought the pitocin was going to make them unbearable. I was already 3cm dilated to begin with so when they checked me the first time I was about a 4. I remember the pain getting pretty intense by this point and Corey kept wetting a washcloth for my chest. The nurses and Corey kept asking if I wanted the epidural yet and I was like uhhh maybe in a bit, I'm OK ... for some odd reason I wanted to see how long I could last without it lol. But after a few hours they were so strong I told them I was ready, I'm pretty sure my exact words were " oooooo yea gimme that needle" lol it took about 15-20 min for the anesthesiologist to get to my room and she started setting up right away. She talked me through everything so I knew what she was doing. They claim it feels like an intense "bee sting"... uhhh no. Not so much. That needle hurt like hell going into my back. Corey was holding my hand and I'm sure he had nail marks when it was over. The weirdest thing was actually feeling the epidural flowing down the spine. Super cold and creepy. Then your legs go numb along with your butt. I could still wiggle my toes but couldn't move my legs. Also pretty creepy. After the epidural went to work things were pleasant! I could still feel the pressure of the contraction but there wasn't much pain. They also give you a clicker button that you can press to get another hit lol which I did many times!
After a while my doctor came in to break my water and said by 6 I should be ready to push hopefully. Which was like 6 hours away... I said in my mind " ha ya right! It will be much sooner". She checked to see my dilation and was at a 5-6cm. She had to leave to go back to the office and told me she will check on me soon! I told her " don't forget about me!! And hurry up !!
So around 3 pm the nurse decides to check me again just to see.... and low and behold she goes " we should probably call your doctor because your ready!!" That made me so happy since I knew he was coming quickly. I just remember telling everyone that I could feel him coming, like he was down there... knocking at the door if you get me. My doctor was making here way back which would only be like 20 min from her office. The nurses got everything ready and told me I could start doing little pushes!!! Hooorayyyy!!!
Everything you have ever seen on TV or movies about labor you can forget about it. Its not like that at all. Honestly pushing was the easiest thing ever!! I could have done it all day long. I pushed for a bit then my doctor should up and it was go time! I pushed for less than an hour and there he was!!!
I was so overjoyed he was finally here and healthy. I was crying, Corey was crying, it was a great moment. I was completely amazed that I just did that and amazed how kinda easy it was. To this day I still look at him and wonder how he was in my belly and how blessed we are to have him. He is the cutest little monkey and I love him more and more each day. I can't believe Corey and I made this little human being who is perfect in every way.
The day before Corey took off work so we could do last minute stuff. We cleaned and organized and ran a couple errands. It was a pretty normal day. I asked my friend Juliana if she would take some maternity pictures for me. So She met Corey and I at the location where we got married. I thought it would be super cute to go there and then when Corbin is a bit older we would go back and take pictures again. I love those " same place different times of your life" type pictures. I will do a post with those next. That night I took a shower, washed my hair since we were getting up early. Went to bed as our last night as just me and Corey. Feeling fine all day might I add. Fast forward to 2am and I start having some pretty bad contractions. I timed them using this app on my phone. They lasted all night but were never really consistent enough, at least that's what I thought. Also I wasn't too worried about them since I knew I was going to the hospital in the morning anyway. By early morning they were about 3-8 minutes apart and were last a little over a minute.
Morning came pretty fast. We got ready, loaded the bags in the car and headed down the street. We live literally right beside the hospital. We checked in right at 8am and they took us to our room. I remember feeling kinda calm, nervous, anxious all at once. I changed into the gown they give you and then the nurses asked me 10 million questions. They hooked me up the the blood pressure and the belly monitors for the baby, and they started the IV. Around 9:30 is when they started the pitocin and I was already on some fluids too. I expected to feel the pitocin but I didn't which calmed my nerves. I was already having strong contractions so I thought the pitocin was going to make them unbearable. I was already 3cm dilated to begin with so when they checked me the first time I was about a 4. I remember the pain getting pretty intense by this point and Corey kept wetting a washcloth for my chest. The nurses and Corey kept asking if I wanted the epidural yet and I was like uhhh maybe in a bit, I'm OK ... for some odd reason I wanted to see how long I could last without it lol. But after a few hours they were so strong I told them I was ready, I'm pretty sure my exact words were " oooooo yea gimme that needle" lol it took about 15-20 min for the anesthesiologist to get to my room and she started setting up right away. She talked me through everything so I knew what she was doing. They claim it feels like an intense "bee sting"... uhhh no. Not so much. That needle hurt like hell going into my back. Corey was holding my hand and I'm sure he had nail marks when it was over. The weirdest thing was actually feeling the epidural flowing down the spine. Super cold and creepy. Then your legs go numb along with your butt. I could still wiggle my toes but couldn't move my legs. Also pretty creepy. After the epidural went to work things were pleasant! I could still feel the pressure of the contraction but there wasn't much pain. They also give you a clicker button that you can press to get another hit lol which I did many times!
After a while my doctor came in to break my water and said by 6 I should be ready to push hopefully. Which was like 6 hours away... I said in my mind " ha ya right! It will be much sooner". She checked to see my dilation and was at a 5-6cm. She had to leave to go back to the office and told me she will check on me soon! I told her " don't forget about me!! And hurry up !!
So around 3 pm the nurse decides to check me again just to see.... and low and behold she goes " we should probably call your doctor because your ready!!" That made me so happy since I knew he was coming quickly. I just remember telling everyone that I could feel him coming, like he was down there... knocking at the door if you get me. My doctor was making here way back which would only be like 20 min from her office. The nurses got everything ready and told me I could start doing little pushes!!! Hooorayyyy!!!
Everything you have ever seen on TV or movies about labor you can forget about it. Its not like that at all. Honestly pushing was the easiest thing ever!! I could have done it all day long. I pushed for a bit then my doctor should up and it was go time! I pushed for less than an hour and there he was!!!
I was so overjoyed he was finally here and healthy. I was crying, Corey was crying, it was a great moment. I was completely amazed that I just did that and amazed how kinda easy it was. To this day I still look at him and wonder how he was in my belly and how blessed we are to have him. He is the cutest little monkey and I love him more and more each day. I can't believe Corey and I made this little human being who is perfect in every way.
Thanks so much for reading! Let me know if I can answer any labor questions for you!
~ASHLEY~
Post coming- Maternity pictures
What I actually used from my hospital bag
Sunday, March 23, 2014
40 weeks Pregnant
Yup! Still pregnant. Out of all the things we have been through with this baby trying to come early, he seems as happy as a clam in there now. So we are going in after him, he may have gotten lost! Wednesday morning at 8am ( uhg gross ), we will be at the hospital gettting induced. I hope to God he comes quickly, but he probably won't because that's just our life. I have been dilated at 3cm and a smidge for over a week now so I am REALLY hoping I can bypass the Cytotec and go straight to the Pitocin. Now this Pitocin stuff...scary. I won't lie. I honestly shouldn't have even looked up what it was in the first place. All it has done is just give me anxiety, which I have plenty of without Googles help. I won't say anything else about it in case your like me :) But what I have to keep telling myself over and over again is that I'm not the doctor. I have never done this before and I shouldn't act like I know everything just because Google told me. I shouldn't be freaked out because Sammy Jo's sister's cousin's, sister in law from Georgia had a bad delivery with it 4 years ago. I trust my doctor 150% and I know I will be fine. I'm not the first women to be induced and certainly not the last. And I have ALREADY tried EVERY old wives tale there is to induce labor, nope. Stubborn little guy, gets that from his dad :)
OLD WIVES TALES TO INDUCE LABOR NATURALLY
Let's get to the 40 week questions!!
How far along? 40 weeks and 2 days today
Gender: boyyy
Total weight gain: 36 lbs..... omg :/
Maternity clothes: yup! I pretty much live in leggings and maternity/long tank tops. Lately it has been nice and I broke out the maxi skirt! And good ol yoga pants!
Stretch marks: None still!!!! Thank you lord! Hopefully stays that way. COCONUT OIL!!!
Sleep: None... Every hour I have to pee... it's clockwork really. He also likes to kick my ribs all the time and I can't get comfy .... and it's hot... so hot lol
Miss Anything: Being able to cuddle my hubby and sit comfortably are definitely missed! You are just so awkward at this stage in pregnancy. Just feeling normal I miss. I know it sounds lame but I miss feeling skinny and being able to curl up and sleep on my stomach... But I also know I will miss having this belly once it's gone.
Cravings: Nothing really. I'm just not feeling food lately. Been eating rice and nutella on bread alot... not together though.
Symptoms: Contractions, Braxton Hicks, crampy, tired, overwhelmed, some gross things I will spare you....lol
Belly Button in or out: uhhh even? Corey says its out but I say it's not. Honestly it's just even, it doesn't stick out.. but it's not really an innie either.
Mood: This week has been a bit of a roller coaster. One day I'm super over being prego and so ready to meet my little guy then the next I'm nervous for the delivery and being completely responsible for a tiny little life! Im sure this is all normal at this point Its just a little nerve racking. And now I have an induction date for Wednesday my mind is going non stop.
Best Moment this week: Hanging out with Corey and the puppies and right now as the pups are going insane running around the apartment chasing each other and power sliding! HAHA So funny!
Looking forward to: On Monday we are gonna have our last date night as just "me and Corey". Tuesday is our day of getting all last minute stuff ready and then Wednesday is induction at 8am. I can't wait to feel his little feet that have been kicking me in the ribs for months!
Exercise: Just walking a few days a week now
MY WEEK IN PICTURES
OLD WIVES TALES TO INDUCE LABOR NATURALLY
- Red Raspberry Leaf Tea
- Pineapple
- Walking
- Rocking
- Sex
- Spicy Food
- Chocolate
- Acupressure
- Warm baths
- Coffee
Let's get to the 40 week questions!!
How far along? 40 weeks and 2 days today
Gender: boyyy
Total weight gain: 36 lbs..... omg :/
Maternity clothes: yup! I pretty much live in leggings and maternity/long tank tops. Lately it has been nice and I broke out the maxi skirt! And good ol yoga pants!
Stretch marks: None still!!!! Thank you lord! Hopefully stays that way. COCONUT OIL!!!
Sleep: None... Every hour I have to pee... it's clockwork really. He also likes to kick my ribs all the time and I can't get comfy .... and it's hot... so hot lol
Miss Anything: Being able to cuddle my hubby and sit comfortably are definitely missed! You are just so awkward at this stage in pregnancy. Just feeling normal I miss. I know it sounds lame but I miss feeling skinny and being able to curl up and sleep on my stomach... But I also know I will miss having this belly once it's gone.
Cravings: Nothing really. I'm just not feeling food lately. Been eating rice and nutella on bread alot... not together though.
Symptoms: Contractions, Braxton Hicks, crampy, tired, overwhelmed, some gross things I will spare you....lol
Belly Button in or out: uhhh even? Corey says its out but I say it's not. Honestly it's just even, it doesn't stick out.. but it's not really an innie either.
Mood: This week has been a bit of a roller coaster. One day I'm super over being prego and so ready to meet my little guy then the next I'm nervous for the delivery and being completely responsible for a tiny little life! Im sure this is all normal at this point Its just a little nerve racking. And now I have an induction date for Wednesday my mind is going non stop.
Best Moment this week: Hanging out with Corey and the puppies and right now as the pups are going insane running around the apartment chasing each other and power sliding! HAHA So funny!
Looking forward to: On Monday we are gonna have our last date night as just "me and Corey". Tuesday is our day of getting all last minute stuff ready and then Wednesday is induction at 8am. I can't wait to feel his little feet that have been kicking me in the ribs for months!
Exercise: Just walking a few days a week now
MY WEEK IN PICTURES
Outfit of the day, which ended being wasted since by the time I was ready to run out I started feeling bad... So on went the yoga pants :(
Cuddling with my Marlee Noodles
One of my many walks to "induce labor"
Add swinging to the list
Got some sun while Corey hit golf balls
Thanks for reading!
Labor and Delivery post coming soon!
~Ashley~
Monday, March 17, 2014
Dressing your Baby Bump
* Quick tips at bottom of post *
Trying to find clothes that fit your ever changing body can be quite the task when your pregnant. In the 1st trimester I never fit into ANY maternity clothes but I was getting too pudgy for all my normal clothes. I couldn't go buy new pants so I just wore leggings and dresses, ALL the time! I think I have only bought 3 pairs of maternity bottoms and a few tops. Oh and that Belly Band is a life saver in the beginning, until you get too fat and it hurts to wear! :( Maternity clothes have come SUCH a long way but you will definetly pay top dollar for the cute ones and still they just don't fit "right".
So let me give you some tips on dressing your baby bump!
FIRST TRIMESTER
You don't look cute prego right now, you just look like a stuffed sausage. Anything flowy and loose fitting will be your best friend. Which is great since that's the style now!
Trying to find clothes that fit your ever changing body can be quite the task when your pregnant. In the 1st trimester I never fit into ANY maternity clothes but I was getting too pudgy for all my normal clothes. I couldn't go buy new pants so I just wore leggings and dresses, ALL the time! I think I have only bought 3 pairs of maternity bottoms and a few tops. Oh and that Belly Band is a life saver in the beginning, until you get too fat and it hurts to wear! :( Maternity clothes have come SUCH a long way but you will definetly pay top dollar for the cute ones and still they just don't fit "right".
So let me give you some tips on dressing your baby bump!
FIRST TRIMESTER
You don't look cute prego right now, you just look like a stuffed sausage. Anything flowy and loose fitting will be your best friend. Which is great since that's the style now!
Long flowy top and leggings. Staples!
Below I remember kind of having a bump but not really. Maxi skirts are great. This one is from H&M and so is the top actually.
SECOND TRIMESTER
The "cute preggo" stage. Tight or flowy you look cute as a button regardless. Score!
As the weather got a bit chillier and it was October I starter wearing sweaters. These are my maternity jeans, the only ones I bought. I got them at Macy's on sale and I bought XS. It took a while for them to fit my butt and thighs but they were super comfy! The sweater was one of the tops I bought. Liz Lange Maternity at Target. On sale for $24.99 and I had a coupon! Woot!
I think I was around 18 weeks in this picture. We drove up to Vail for a few days and I had strep throat. I was so sick we left a day early to come home :(
Oh one of the many Target fitting room pictures...
This was about 20 weeks preggo. So I had a cute little bump. He was so tiny in there! This was my favorite stage because you just looked cute! You felt good, your hair and skin is doing great things!
These were the maternity jeans. The top is just a long sleeved tshirt. Uggs were really the only shoes that did not kill my feet.
At 24 weeks I was put on bedrest for a little over a month. Little guy was trying to come out to play way too early! Below is my first time out in weeks. I was feeling like death but I had to go to the store for food.
Maternity jeans.
A normal top from Target and a long white tank under.
You can get by for a long time wearing normal tops you have just by putting a long tank under them!
THIRD TRIMESTER
I liked wearing tighter fitted things. Flowy, loose clothing made me feel like a whale. I only have this belly for a little bit long so I might as well show it off while I have an excuse. :)
32 weeks
Finding a dress to fit your bump at this stage proved to be a task! I looked everywhere for a flowy dress that did not make me look like a tent! Also everything now wants to fit at your natural waist, well preggos don't have one of those. So finding something to fit under the boobs was tricky.
I found this dress at Nordstroms Rack on clearance for $19.99 !! I can also wear it this summer during that awkward getting back into shape stage.
This is at 38 weeks
Hot, bloated and ready to have a baby.
Black leggings, white long tank and a very light button down top.
This was a before picture. See that cute little belt? Adorable...wore it for 5 minutes and then took it off because it was suffocating me. Atleast I tried!
That concludes us to 39 weeks, almost 40 weeks. Look at that! Still pregnant... Any day now...
Yoga pants and a tshirt.. no shame.
Hope this helps a little bit. Below are some other blogs that I think are great with fashion options.
There are PLENTY of blog links on pinterest too.
*** I have found great deals at
Target and H&M. They both have a Maternity section and are affordable. But I found things to fit in their "normal" section as well.
*** If you get a few bottom pieces and maybe 3-4 tops you can mix them into your wardrobe you have already.
*** Always go bigger with the tops!
*** Be prepared for your feet to swell up so much NONE of your shoes fit.
*** If your short like me, under 5'4, finding pants will make you go insane! Shop the junior department and use a belly band.
*** Use a hair tye and loop it through the button hole on your pants. This will get your through many months!
*** Don't "guess" how big you will be at a certain time.It will be too small by the time you wear it. Buy something when you need it. I promise you it will save your mind!
*** By thin socks. Even if it is 10- degrees outside and a blizard, your feet will get hot, which makes your whole body hot.
*** In the beginning a bra with no underwire and no padding is gold! GOLD I tell you!
*** You will have to sleep in your husbands tshirts since none of yours will fit. "Even my big comfy shirts"? Yup even those! Boy shirts are MUCH softer anyway.
********* Invest in a small fan to point directly on you at night!!!!******** I know, not fashion related but you'll need it :)
Thanks for stopping by!
~Ashley~
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Pink & Grey Elephant Baby Shower
This past Sunday we were able to have my Sister in laws baby shower! They went with a pink and grey elephant theme for the nursery so we just figured the shower should have the same theme! My mom and I offered to throw it and we had alot of fun coming up with ideas. Since I'm having a boy it was exciting to buy girl stuff and have the shower cutesy and all girly. Drew got pretty much everything on her registry too, so that is always helpful!! I'm so happy for her and my brother and I cant wait to see their little girl! She is due May 2nd.
The Decor
This was the cake table. At first we had the cups there but then moved them since it would have been cramped, so it ended up being the cake and party favor table. I put the Frosted Icing Animal Crackers in the bags and just used pink twist ties. They were really cute, easy and cheap to make. everyone loved them too!
Pink polka dot favor bags- Hobby Lobby
Pink and Grey Cups- Party City
Forks- Party City
Plates & Napkins- Party City
Glass Vases- Walmart
Gumballs- Party City
I thought it would be a cute idea if we used candy as a decor piece. Kill 2 birds with 1 stone kind of deal. Party city has this huge bin of colored candies 15/$1. we bought 15 of each light pink, hot pink and white gumballs, put them in a vase and tied and baby ribbon around it and TADA!!!
We ordered the cake from out local grocery store, King Soopers. It was chocolate on the inside and delicious! I had 2 big slices! What? I'm pregnant, I do what I want! Elephant decor is VERY VERY hard to find, unless you order off Etsy and pay $83,747,834 for a banner. We found the elephant candles at the very last minute and were so excited!
Pink Blocks- no clue, my mom got those
Other Blocks- already came on the cake
Elephant Candles- Party City ( They were on the party favor wall)
My mom was going to make one of those "diaper cakes" but with washcloths but we decided not to so we just put the washcloths around the bottom and stuck the straws in the middle!
Pink polka dot balloons- Hobby Lobby
Pink and White Paper Lanterns- Hobby Lobby
My wonderful brother hanging the lanterns. FYI: the lanterns do not coming with the string to hang them... So we used grey polka dot ribbon which was fine, but strong would have be nice.
The Food and Drinks
Ice Bucket- Dollar Tree
Punch Bowl- Dollar Tree
Drinks- Sweet Tea from Chick-fil-A
Pink Lemonade Sherbet Punch. Which was the most amazing thing ever! After the 5th cup though it definitely made your head hurt from all the sugar.
Elephant picture holders- Party City
The Games
The first game my little brother actually found. At first I thought it would be kind of dumb, but it was actually so funny!
Paper Plate Drawing Game-
Everyone gets a paper plate and you put it on top of your head and draw a baby. Sounds dumb right? We laughed so hard at everybody baby drawing, it was hilarious! We ended up playing this game 3 times! We even played one round of trying to draw a bunny. Mine came out like the Caribbean Islands :(
The last 2 games I don't have pictures of because my camera decided to break after this...
We put reeses pieces in a big baby bottle and had to guess how many were in there.
The 3rd game was pretty hard honestly. It was called The Candy Bar Matching Game. Here is a link for it. http://www.fun-babyshower-games.com/candy-bar-matching-game.html
Myself and the guest(s) of honor :) I am 38 weeks here and she is 32 weeks! So close!!!
Myself, my momma and Drew
Belly Power!
All in all I thought the shower turned out great! We had lots of laughs and Drew was shower with adorable gifts! I think she had almost 25 people show up in the end! Success!!
Thanks so much for stopping by!
~Ashley~
Monday, March 3, 2014
Hospital Bag Essentials - Labor
I have been researching "hospital bags for labor" for weeks now. It seems everyone has an opinion but mostly it is all the same items, give or take. I don't want to be that women who packs for a week long vacation but I also want to be cozy and have some things from home. I think my bag is perfect so hopefully this may help some of you :)
Disclaimer- This is my first baby but I looked at checklists from moms who had more than one baby :)
Disclaimer- This is my first baby but I looked at checklists from moms who had more than one baby :)
So this is my bag. Fancy, huh? It's just an average sized duffle.
This is what is in the duffle. With the exception of Corey's stuff. But his things will be easy and half of it are electronics and chargers.
My bag of toiletries :) I got the bag on clearance from Target, I think it was $6.98. Now some of this stuff I may not even use and that's fine. I just want to have it lol I know there will be a gazillion pictures and honestly I don't want to look like an ogar. Don't get me wrong there will be NO smokey eyes or red lips but I would like to look somewhat put together.
Makeup
BB Cream - Urban Decay
Waterproof Mascara - Givenchy
Concealer - Tarte
Powder - Laura Mercier
Bronzer/Blush Duo - Nars
2 chap sticks - Fresh and YSL
Waterproof eyeliner - Urban Decay
Brow Pencil- Laura Mercier
Skin/Body/Hair
Makeup Wipes - Ponds
Face Wash - Fresh Soy Cleanser
Face Moisturizer- Fresh Lotus
Coconut Oil
Shampoo/Conditioner - Travel size Herbal Essences
Toothbrush/Toothpaste
Body Lotion- Travel size
Hand Sanitizer
Deodorant and Body Wash- Travel size
Bobby Pins and hair tyes
BABY STUFF
Car Seat :) Duh
This is a Graco Snug...a bug...rider... Something like that :) Also make sure your base is correctly put it! Babies R US will do it for you. Also fire stations!
Mittens, socks and a wubbanub thing... whatever they are called
Newborn outfit from Target that I am so obsessed with!!!
Another newborn outfit with penguins. This one seems a bit bigger so if he ends up being a bowling ball then this will fit him better.....ooooooo contraction :(
All better...
I know they have blankets there but it will probably be cold outside so I thought a heavier blanket would be good and a receiving one.
For Mama
I know I will need more than one nursing bra but this is what I have for now. Also I will be on leave for almost 3 months so I feel a "sleeping" nursing bra will be fine. This is from target and it 's super comfy!
2 tops- one is loose and flowy. The other is a bit tighter but longer. Both are easy to pull down or off when I need to nurse.
Lightweight zip-up hoodie - I had to buy this one at Target since all of my hoodies are pullover ones and I thought it would be a pain.
2 comfy pants - one pair of yoga pants and one legging. I didn't buy new pants, I'm just using old faded ones. I have heard from numerous moms that your pants get...dirty and stained. So what's the point?
Some ladies also recommended
Robe- I don't feel I need this. I'll have a hoodie
Slippers - ehhh not sure. I have cabin socks which are super thick.
Nursing Pads- Need to get
Nipple Cream- Coconut Oil should be fine
For Daddy
Camera/Charger
Video Camera/Charger
Cells/Charger
Nook/Charger
Sleep Clothes
Normal Day Clothes
Slippers/Socks
Snacks/Drinks - A daddy boot camp class he went to told him to bring a small cooler to keep everything in which I thought was a good idea.
Tylenol/Excedrin
Toiletries
Blanket/Small Pillow
So Corey needs to get on this...sometime this week...
After Hospital Care
Here are what the ladies say you should get
Jumbo thick extra long pads - oooh sexy
Aloe Gel/witch hazel - To put on the pads, then put them in the fridge/freezer for some...who-hah relief
Tucks Pads- whatever that is
Dermoplast - The blue cap bottle not the red
Granny Panties- I got some boyshorts today. Nothing fancy, you will throw them away.
Nursing Pads
Heating Pad
A Belly Band
Did I forget anything?
~Ashley~
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