What I'm Reading :: September

I took a couple of months off from posting while we were getting used to a household with two kids. This new 'normal' didn't really leave much room for reading either! By the time the kids go to sleep at night, my eyes are just about closing and I would be passing out on the couch.

I did find some time though while we went on a mini vacation to read a couple books while the baby soaked in the ocean air and slept like a champ. Now that we are getting into more of a routine at home as well, I find some quiet time to catch up on some of the books I had lined up for this month that I wanted to share.

I also wanted to share with you the really neat Book Club that I've joined online. It's open to everyone and it's actually really cool. I don't generally post about things unless I really truly like them or find them to be really helpful/interesting. This is one of them! It's called Book of the Month Club and it is an online book club subscription that takes information about you (after filling out a short survey) and provides you with a list of five books each month to choose one from that will be mailed to you to keep and read. 

It's a pretty neat service and a great online community of avid readers that you can discuss the book with if that's something you like to do. If you like to read often and are looking for great books, this is perfect for you. Some of the best new and upcoming novels are chosen, as well as some great classics. Right now they have a great deal going on where you get 30% off a 3 month subscription and a free tote bag with the promotional code 30TOTE or you can try a 1 month subscription for only $5 with the promotional code READ5. Can't beat getting a great book for $5 in the first month! 

Here are a few of the books I've been reading this month:

After You

I read Me Before You last summer while on vacation and absolutely loved it. It was one of those books that moved slowly with so much detail but you couldn't get enough or stop reading. I saw the movie a few months ago when it came out and loved the actors that represented each character and then I kind of didn't want the story to end so I decided to read After You. After You is a great sequel to the first and really captures what life is like for Lou after Will. If you liked the first, you will undoubtedly like After You. You can find it here.

First Comes Love

If you have ever read and watched Something Borrowed, you know Emily Giffin and her books. I love them and always get my hands on each new one she releases. This latest that was released this summer was another great one but differed than some of her previous work. This book mixed loss, love, motherhood, family, and everything in between with a beautiful message at the end. You can find it here.

The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo

I love Amy Schumer and was really excited for her book to come out. This was actually my first pick in the Book of the Month club subscription and so I haven't read it yet but it is on my list this month. I will let you know how I like it! You can find it here.

What are you reading this month?

Have a good week!

A Birth Story :: Theodore

The second littlest love of my life, Theodore David Brodie was born on Wednesday July 6, 2016, weighing 8 lbs 4 oz and made my heart burst and grow even more than I ever thought it could.

This pregnancy differed from my first in so many ways as every pregnancy does. It tested my faith, my strength, and at times made me feel so helpless. There were many ups and many downs as we navigated through all of the various appointments with different doctors, the numerous tests and monitoring, and ultimately the relocation to Philadelphia for the birth. I spent a lot of this pregnancy really excited to meet my baby boy as every pregnant mama does, but there was also a great amount of time that I spent feeling scared for his future and sad for what he would have to go through. Feeling helpless as a mom is such a painful feeling. I held onto whatever faith I had every day, praying that this little boy who I hadn't met yet but knew was going to be my greatest hero, would make his appearance and show us how unbelievably strong he was.

As the anxiety set in the last couple months before his birth, the doctors set a date for me to come in to be induced the week before my actual due date to avoid me going into labor at home and not getting to the hospital in time. They wanted to make sure the team of doctors that would monitor the baby was ready and waiting just in case Theo needed care minutes after birth. I was scheduled to be induced on  the evening of Tuesday July 5, 2016.

On Tuesday evening, David and I settled into our room at the hospital after dropping Penelope off at her grandparents. The nurses started the induction process that night and told me to get some sleep.Telling a mom she would be meeting her son super soon and then telling her to get some sleep is not a good combination and I don't think that really ever works...ever. I was way too excited/nervous/anxious to sleep that night and so I tossed and turned until the morning. David snored, all night.

Wednesday July 6, I woke up to contractions and so the nurses decided to give me a round of Pitocin around noon, which would increase the intensity and timing of contractions, while David ate a cheeseburger in front of me. To be fair, I told him to eat because I knew sooner or later, I'd be squeezing the life out of him. My contractions went from somewhat strong to completely debilitating within a few hours but my stubborn self kept pacing back and forth in the room, swaying on the rocking chair, to get through each one. From about noon to 3pm, I walked around breathing through every contraction until finally at 3:30pm, I decided to ask for an epidural, not realizing that it was way too late, little boy was ready.

Around 4:10p.m. the anesthesiologist came in to give me the epidural. As he laid me down to give me a test dose of the epidural, to make sure my blood pressure would not drop too low, my water broke and then all I remember is screaming to the nurse that the baby was coming! The team of doctors scrambled to get ready for his arrival as I squeezed the life out of the nurse and David's hands. Finally they allowed me to push, and after about 3 pushes, Theodore made his way into the world! I instantly forgot about the crazy amount of pain I was in when I saw his little face and heard his little cry. I never believed women when they said that they forgot the pain when the baby arrived, but you really do in some strange, bizarre way. Theodore was an angel from the very beginning, crying only as his eyes met the world and then immediately calmed down once I held him.

He was doing so well after birth without any visible complications and so the doctors allowed me to hold him for about 10-15 minutes or so before they took him to make sure he was stable and get him ready to go to the NICU, where we could go and visit/sit with him afterwards.

Penelope came to visit her new brother that night. Having no clue that this little boy would be coming home with us in a few days, she begged to hold the baby in the NICU. It was the sweetest thing I have ever seen.

The days following the birth, Theodore spent in the NICU. He was monitored, tested, and proved to us how strong of a fighter he is, as he fed and grew each day and was able to come home after only three days. The doctors went over his current condition and how well he was doing that he wouldn't need any immediate care until his surgery around 3 months old.

Theodore came home and has been doing so well in the last two months. He has been growing and making everyone he meets fall in love with him. He is my calm in this big crazy hectic life. He is my my calm, as his sister the tornado runs through the house each day. I live to hear his little sighs each day, and to see his sister hold him and give him kisses, as he smiles and she says "He laughin at me."

As we are a month away from his surgery, we are soaking in every minute of every day with him, watching him grow, and loving every moment. My heart is so full, yet breaks a little every day knowing that his little body will have to go through so much so soon. My little fighter has completely stolen this mama's heart and will every day for the rest of my life. He has taught me more about myself than I could imagine, has given me strength in times where I didn't think I had anything else left, and has given me the greatest gift I have ever known, along with his sister, by making me their mom. He's my hero, my heart, and the littlest love of my life. 

Things I can't wait to do after pregnancy.

I wrote this post the day before I had Theodore and never got around to posting it. So I'm posting it now, while I write his birth story for ya'll to read. I am happy to say I have completed a few of the items on my checklist below : ) 

1. Eat a hot dog. Don't ask me why but I am that shopper that goes to Costco and has to leave with a fountain soda and a hot dog with ketchup and mustard. I know what you're thinking, judge away but it is my guilty pleasure and I have avoided Costco for the most part because I couldn't have hot dogs while pregnant. I am so ready for a walk around Costco with my hot dog and my soda.

2. Shave my legs without gasping for air every 5 seconds. I am at the point where bending over is an incredible task that leaves me breathless and frustrated. I almost hit rock bottom and considered not shaving my legs, but that thought quickly went away. I will suffer and shave my legs and hope for the day that bending over to do simple tasks won't be such a workout.

3. Yoga. I absolutely love yoga and I love finding new classes but putting on extra weight during pregnancy makes it even more difficult to hold those poses. Not to mention the enormous belly I've been lugging around lately. This belly makes for a pretty strange looking downward dog pose and lots of heavy breathing, which totally takes away any relaxation factors that come along with yoga. Soon, very soon, I keep telling myself.

4. Shop for cute clothes and actually fit into them. This one will come in time, I know but I really do miss going shopping and buying cute clothes to wear. My maternity wardrobe for the last few months has been spandex, tank tops, flowy cardigans, and more spandex. Anything that stretches basically is my best friend right now. I'm itching for the day I can fit into my skinny jeans again, well maybe.

5. Drink a margarita. I'm not really a big drinker at all but for some reason I have been craving a margarita like it's my job during this pregnancy and not just any margarita but the frozen prickly pear margarita at one of my favorite places in Texas. I'm coming for you, soon, hopefully.

6. Sleep on my stomach! The simple joys in life, that's all I can say. Just sleep, should be one of them.

7. See what my little man looks like. This one is last but the most important. I have envisioned in my head what this baby will look like. I've wondered if he will have Penelope's coloring and similar features, the bright blue-ish/gray eyes OR if he will be darker like his daddy with dark eyes. I just can't wait to see this little person.

XOXO

Thoughts: Last few days of Pregnancy

The countdown is on. Baby boy will be here in about 8 days, if not sooner (I'm crossing my fingers). I was just sitting here thinking about this pregnancy in comparison to my first when I was pregnant with Penelope. This one has been a little more emotionally taxing for obvious reasons but people are not kidding when they say being pregnant while running after a toddler is no joke.

We found out we were having another baby about a month before Penelope's first birthday and then the first trimester exhaustion settled in just about the same time as my first little monster started walking or running rather. I felt about 5 times more tired this time around with my only hope of relief was when I was at work and Penelope was taken care of by our awesome nanny (who we miss very much if you are reading this!), or when Penelope went to bed and I could sit on the couch for maybe 30 minutes before passing out, drool running and everything. I know as you're reading this you're thinking "being at work is relief"? YES. I could sit for 8 hours without no interruptions besides that of my bladder.

To be honest though, it wasn't as bad as I'm making it seem. Yes, I was exhausted and yes, I will hand it over to any mamas out there that are expecting their second or third and doing it so gracefully. You are all warriors in my book.

After we found everything out about baby boy, the pregnancy took a bit of a turn for me, and instead of being so happy to give Penelope a sibling and to see what this little boy looked like, I was just worried and sad most of the time. Moving took a big toll on us too, as well as getting used to a new place again, and battling the allergies I've had since we moved! The last two months have been quite a challenge for me. Getting used to working from home full time again (which I am so thankful for), getting everything ready for the baby while seeing doctors every week for myself and for him, along with pretty much being sick with allergies and then bronchitis the entire time has been pretty brutal.

Yesterday, as we were driving to our final appointment before baby comes, I told David "I don't know if I can do this again." I immediately felt bad after saying it. I know there are women out there who have lost babies, who are having trouble conceiving, among many other issues, and at the end of the day, despite all of the sad days I've had, the tired days, the days where I want to run away or hide, or think I can't do it...I am so incredibly grateful that I can. Our bodies and minds are capable of so much more than we can possible conceive and I am noticing that more and more these days. When you think you can't go any more, your feet keep moving, your heart keeps beating, and your mind keeps whirling.

I know I'm ranting today but I caught myself thinking about pregnancy and figured I'd just write it all down. I'm sure someone can relate : )

Have a great day! 

What I'm Reading:: June

Last night as I was sitting on the couch trying to get through this old book I had started reading this week, David said to me "you're a book-reading junkie lately". I took that as a compliment. I don't know what it is, I've always really liked to read but lately instead of watching tv when I finally get a chance to sit on the couch, I just want to read. 

Continuing with my monthly book lists. I've included a few new books I've decided to read this month. One is a light summer chick book and the other two just looked really interesting. Let me know what you think or if you've read any of them!

What I'm reading in June and July:

The Girls by Emma Cline 

I was a little on the fence about reading this book at first. It is a coming of age story, set in the 1960s, revolving around the lives of young girls who have become entwined in a cult with a Charles Mansonesque leader. The story is told from a middle aged woman looking back to when she was 14, when she stumbled across this new world as a young girl looking to find herself one summer. It's incredibly deep and at times a lot to handle, but it is so well written. You can find it here.

Forever Beach by Shelley Noble 

This book is on the lighter side compared to the first book I mentioned. It's perfect as a poolside or beach read. It tells the story of two childhood best friends that lose touch and then inevitably find their way back to each other all to save a little girl and give her a family. It's a really good summer read! You can find it here.

Modern Lovers by Emma Straub

Lastly, this book I stumbled across on Barnes & Noble's top recent books list. This book is about young friends that grow up together, live around each other as they are older with their own families, and watch their kids settle into friendships with each other. It's funny and at times crazy, but it's a really fun and good humored book! You can find it here.

What are you reading this month? 

Have a great weekend!

Favorites for the Week!

Been busy over here getting ready for the baby's arrival in a couple weeks and had a sick toddler this weekend, who only wanted to lay on the couch and watch movies with her dada (pictured above)!

 I have to say I was seriously overwhelmed by all of the well wishes and love I received from my last post. It's very comforting knowing that so many people care and are praying for you and your family. So, thank you, from the bottom of my heart!

I wanted to share some cool articles, videos, and things I stumbled across last week, as we start a new week! Enjoy : )

Bullet Journaling - I stumbled across an article detailing this new trend. It's like a calendar/daily book to keep you organized but it's a new, fun way to do it. I started watching Youtube videos on it and think I want to start my own! It has to be better than my million to-do lists in every notebook that I own!

Here are some other cool Planner Ideas as well - if you are SUPER into planning and keeping yourself motivated, like I am. Some of these are really cute!

As you know, I'm obsessed with The Bachelor/Bachelorette. I literally just watch it, while eating something that's not necessarily good for me and laugh most of the time. So, on that note, I found this funny compilation of 71 thoughts people had while watching this Monday's episode. I thought it was funny. Take a look, here.

THIS. I love James Corden and Carpool Karaoke. Watch it just for fun!

Some fun summer arts & craft ideas for kiddos. This and this and this!

Also for kids- this monthly subscription called Little Passports. Your kids learn about a new country/place every month with a great package sent to your mailbox. Penelope is still a little young for this but I thought I'd share. I love the idea. Check it out here.

Ten Habits of Highly Organized People. Quick read for those of us who aspire to be a little more organized each day!

8 Inspiring Websites to Read. Some of these are my favorite and an all around good read.

8 Tips for Working From Home. I love this simple read for those of us who work from home and struggle with it at times.

Recently I've been looking for healthier meal options for Penelope and myself. Stumbled across this breakfast recipe, yum!

Hope you have a great week Xo

A Little Update.

35 weeks with Baby 2, at the beach with Nel.  

An update into our lives over the last few months is much needed. We've gone through quite a bit of change over the last few weeks and are slowly adjusting but I decided to write this post, not only as an update but hopefully it touches someone today that may be going through a rough time and can relate.

Every day isn't awesome and I think sometimes we get caught up in social media and post only the glamorous and fun aspects of life, which is beautiful and should be celebrated but it's not always reality. In order to appreciate those incredible moments, we must trudge through some rough times and sometimes it helps knowing there are others who know what you're going through.

So here goes.

So we found out that Baby number two is a .... boy early on and we were so so excited!

Although my pregnancies have been extremely easy on me physically, besides a few weeks of nausea and exhaustion in the beginning; emotionally this one has been quite a roller coaster ride that I've been trying to deal with and take in stride.

After my 13 week blood tests, my OB called me and told me my blood work came back somewhat abnormal and that she wanted me to see a high risk specialist to do some further testing. I received the call while at work one day and of course assumed the worst. I was terrified. We went to the specialist, had numerous tests done, waited impatiently without sleep for about a week for results, and they finally came back normal, much to our relief.

Although everything came back normal during the second round of tests, I was recommended to continue seeing the high risk specialist once a month for ultrasounds to make sure the baby was growing on target. My OB told me after the third visit,  if everything looked normal growth-wise, I would be released from the specialist and would only see my OB for the rest of the pregnancy. We were SUPER happy about that. Going to two different doctors and scheduling different appointments was a little bit stressful.

On that third visit to the specialist, during the ultrasound the doctor just kept staring and staring at the baby's heart for what seemed like forever. I knew deep down something wasn't right but kept telling myself to stop thinking so negatively, as she continued to study the screen intently. I peered over at David and he looked back at me with the same expression. The doctor concluded the ultrasound, looked at us and said " Although everything else looks good, I think there is something wrong with the baby's heart."

That's all I heard before my world came shattering down around me.

I don't remember much else from that appointment, besides her rattling off a long name of the type of congenital heart defect she believed my baby to have and bits and pieces of what this meant. We were referred to a pediatric and fetal cardiologist that would perform an echo of the baby's heart and confirm. We were so desperately hoping she was wrong.

We went to the cardiologist later that week and it was confirmed. Our baby boy has a congenital heart defect known as Tetralogy of Fallot and would need open heart surgery his first year of life to survive, followed by at least one more years down the road.

If you think your world can't fall apart twice in a week, I am here to tell you that it sure can and it sure as hell feels like it is crumbling around you piece by piece. Walking out of that building, I think I had to tell my legs to move or else I would have fallen flat on my face with no shame.

I was in a completely strange place after that appointment. I felt as though my world had ended. I was angry. "Why us? Why my baby?" flooded my thoughts and it still does some days. I laid in bed for the rest of the day, trying to comprehend what this meant and come to terms with it. Deep down, I just didn't know what to do that day. My body didn't know what to do. All the while, I struggled to put a smile on for Peneleope. It was a rough week. It was a week I will never ever forget.

Since the diagnosis and speaking with doctors, we made the decision to temporarily relocate back to Philadelphia for the birth of Baby T, so he could be treated at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, as it is one of the best and most experienced for this condition. The realization that this was happening and we'd have to move our lives within a month was mind-numbing, to say the least. Packing up your entire life as a family is no small feat but doing it all the while trying to come to terms with the fact that your unborn baby has been diagnosed with a heart defect, just kind of breaks your heart. Fortunately, we were able to do so while having the support of our jobs, friends, and family.

So, we left our home in San Antonio for a little while to welcome Baby T into the world and get him the best treatment possible.

As for me, I have my days. There are days where I am great and there are days where I cry in the shower or in the car. There are days where I am angry that it has to be him and there are days where I feel as though I have finally accepted this and am stronger for it.

The only thing I'm sure of right now is that this baby is already making me brave and stronger than I thought I was or thought I ever could be, and he isn't even here yet.

xoxo

Happy Friday :: Weekend Links

We are heading off to the beach for the weekend, so I am scrambling to clean up the house before we leave (looking pretty clean right!) and hoping this not so great weather goes away. I wanted to share some pretty neat articles, links, and things I stumbled across this week!

Need some me-time? This is a great article for creating some white space in your life.

Easy breakfast ideas for kids! Love this.

These are awesome and such a fun idea.

Happy National Donut Day! Healthy donut recipes here!

A dad's account of being mom for the day. This was cute.

Decorating your bedroom tips, here. I needed this.

This super cute sofa bed from Ikea is perfect for a kids room!

I love this bag from Madewell.

I wish I had read this before we went to Disney. Disney moms share tips for visiting, here!

These shoes AND they are on sale.

This and this braid tutorial. I'm braid challenged but I love them so much.

Have a great weekend : ) 

::Currently::

Watching:: All of my shows have ended for the summer season, besides the Bachelorette (shhh, yeah I'm obsessed and really not ashamed). I watch almost every season religiously while everyone around me teases and tells me it's fake. Even if it is, which there is substantial evidence at times that it is, I can't stay away from the drama. It is so entertaining. So, if you watch...who is your top pick this season? I'm thinking of writing a recap every week because I know there are some of you out there, who secretly watch while eating chocolate (maybe I'm the only one on that front), tweet (again maybe I'm the only one on that too), and have some super big opinions on it. We shall see!

Reading:: As I said earlier, most of my shows have ended for the summer and at first I was pretty bummed but in the place of my night time TV ritual, I now read my books until I fall asleep. I've been able to read so many books, it's actually been pretty awesome. I mentioned last week that I was currently reading The Weekenders by Mary Kay Andrews and Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen. I'm still in the middle of them and absolutely love each one and their differences. Strongly recommend both for a nice summer read.

Listening:: Well, besides Barney or Frozen most days, Penelope and I are jammin' to some Justin Timberlake and JLO lately, not to mention Blake Shelton's new album. The other day, I was sitting on the couch and I heard a little voice coming from behind the chair in the opposite corner of the living room, singing "ain't yo mama". I didn't know whether to cry or laugh, but she loves JLO.

Loving:: The photo at the very tippy top. It really has no relevance to this post but I love it so much, I had to share.

Eating:: I've been having these weird cravings for those orangle slice candies. Do you guys know what I'm talking about? So crazy, but I went to Walgreens yesterday and bought myself a bag. I only allow myself maybe one or two but it is a pretty strange craving I've had.

Wishing:: I'm really really wishing that it doesn't rain this weekend because I'm taking Penelope to the beach this weekend for the first time since last summer (when she was only 8 months old!) with my mom, my brother Pete, and our BFF Kelli, while David works : (

Anticipating: I added this one only because I cannot cannot cannot wait to see Me Before You movie. I read the book last summer and loved it. I can't wait to see if the movie lives up to the book. Check the trailer out, I'm obsessed.

Happy Thursday!

xoxo

Summer Bucket List!

Summer is here. Super hot days, warm nights, popsicles, skinned knees, pool parties, etc! With about a month left before Baby T comes, I wanted to make a list of fun things to do with Penelope, so we can have some time together, since a lot of changes will be happening very soon! I've put together a little summer bucket list and wanted to share. I think it's a great idea to do each season as a tradition and then as the kiddos get older, they can help fill up the bucket list with their own ideas. So here goes!

1. Take lots of walks before the weather gets unbearably hot. I'm not sure how unbearable it can get here, when we've survived three Texas summers. Penelope is at the age now where she loves to walk with you, instead of in a stroller, stopping to pick up any cool rocks or flowers she may find. It's kind of awesome.

2. Go swimming. Well that's pretty self-explanatory.

3. Have a picnic. There is a really neat park for kids right around where we live and it's the perfect spot to have lunch and then let Penelope run wild for an hour or so.

4. Go to the library. I also happened to find a library close to us which is awesome because we didn't have any too close in San Antonio. It will be nice to go with Penelope and have her look through the books and pick a few she would like to read.

5. Take a day trip to the beach. We are kind of at the point now where I can't go too far from home, but I want to take Penelope to the beach still, even for the day. The best summer memories I have are at the beach with my family. I want her to be able to play in the sand, pick up seashells, have boardwalk pizza and icecream, and play games.

6. Go to a Phillies Game. It's been a while! We haven't been to a Phillies game in years, since we've been living in San Antonio. Now that we are back here for a while, I'm itching to go to one and take Penelope on a cooler night!

7. Rita's Water Ice. We've missed it since we've been living in Texas. Bahama Bucks shaved ice just didn't compare.

8. Stay up late, make s'mores, and catch lightning bugs aka fireflies.

9. Go to a museum. There are plenty here that will keep Penelope interested and with the super hot days that are in store, something fun indoors will be a must.

10. Go to the zoo.

11. Get Slurpees. I don't know why I added this one, maybe I'm just craving one. Who knows.

What are some things on your summer bucket list?!

Have a great week! 

xoxo

What I'm Reading: May

I've been able to read a few books this past month, more than I normally would have time for. The pregnancy insomnia has kicked in, so after Penelope goes to bed I sit and read voraciously until I fall asleep. I've been staying up later and later every night trying to finish the books I'm reading because they were so good.

Instead of keeping these books to myself, I decided I'd start a mini series of posts every month telling you all what I've read or am planning to read. I'd love to hear your book suggestions too. I'm always looking for something new to read.

This past month, I was in a young adult book mood and read two really good ones but both were pretty dark, I have to admit. They are definitely worth sharing though and if you've read them, let me know what you thought of them!

I've also read another book from a new favorite author of mine, Rainbow Rowell called Attachments. This one was recommended to me from my brother and I have to admit, I had a super hard time getting into at first and then after a few chapters I was hooked.

What I read in April and May: 

We Were Liars

Although this is labeled a 'young adult' novel, I really believe any age will enjoy this book and become hooked. I was intrigued from the beginning reading about a wealthy family who summers on a private island every year, the tragedy that occurs, and the ways in which they find their path back to the truth. It keeps you on the edge of your seat. Find it here.

All the Bright Places

This book and I had a love/hate relationship. I couldn't stop reading but it made me so sad. It's a heartbreaking love story between two teenagers who find themselves through each other. It touches on some super difficult topics. Find it here. 

Attachments 

This book is a little more lighthearted. I read it after reading the above two, when I needed a break from all of the sadness. Rainbow Rowell has written a few books that I have really liked. This one is one of her adult novels, touching on e-mail exchanges between two best friends at work about their day to day lives and the unlikely person who happens to be monitoring the e-mails. It's funny and refreshing. Find it here.

What I've just started:

The Weekenders 

I've just started The Weekenders and am already loving it. It's the perfect summer read with a a twinge of suspicion, betrayal, guilt, etc. Mary Kay Andrews always seems to write the books I take on vacation with me and become hooked while sitting on the beach. Find it here.

Along for the Ride

Last but not least, Along for the Ride, is really not a new book to me. I've read it probably twice (no shame). It's a young adult book by my all time favorite author, Sarah Dessen. I started reading this around the same time I started The Weekenders. Don't ask me how I'm reading two books right now but sometimes I just go back to an oldie but goodies for fun. I totally recommend this book if you're looking for something light and hopeful. Find it here. 

Let me know what you're reading currently or what you thought of these books!

Enjoy xoxo

Happy Friday: things i'm currently loving.

Happy Friday! Here are some things I'm really loving lately!

This Bag. 

This Dress. 

This Dress. 

This Book. 

These Rings. 

This Cream.

This Front Door. 

This BackPack for Nel. 

Have a great weekend! xoxo

Awkward & Awesome Thursdays

I'm going to revive this old post idea from one of my favorite blogs (here) because it's Thursday and because I feel like complaining and then redeeming myself a little by appreciating the good things at the end of the day. Also, I just really love this photo of us above.

Awkward: 

- My allergies are non-existent in Texas and I pretty much never really get sick which is AWESOME but I come to Pennsylvania and I now feel like I'm dying with sinus congestion and a head that feels like it weights a 1000 pounds. So awkward.

- How long I can spend on Amazon reading customer reviews. I'm pretty sure any other person would think I'm absolutely insane if they saw me reading sippy cup reviews, just so I can find the right one. I don't even think I can use the phrase "it's a mom thing" for this one. It's just awkward.

- Living in leggings for the last 5 months. I don't think I need to say much more about that one. I don't remember the last time I wore jeans.

- The fact that I have to hang my clothing backwards in my new closet because they have this weird shelf that doesn't allow for me to just simply hang my clothing like a normal person. My inner OCD monster is coming out slowly, as I hang each shirt  backwards.

Awesome:

- The sun peeked out for a whole two hours today. I think I have only seen it once before since we've moved here. I was beginning to think it didn't exist here or that we moved to Seattle. Now I'm waiting for the summer weather because I really want to take my girl to the beach before little man comes. I think she needs some sun, sand, boardwalk pizza, and ice cream.

- The peace and quiet that is happening in my home right now and the cup of tea that is sitting next to me.

- Penelope waking up this morning and singing "Happy Birfday ta ya, Happy Birfday ta ya", even though it's not my birthday. It's her new favorite song and it is the sweetest thing to hear.

- That all my clothing is unpacked and in my closet.....and it fits....and I was able to share a closet with David. Who have I become? I'm not quite sure!

Ch Ch Changes.

Last Saturday Penelope and I said 'see ya later' to our home in San Antonio for a while and headed up north back to Pennsylvania. David and Romeo are close behind us and will be saying goodbyes as they bring the rest of our belongings, finishing up the last bit of loose ends to this temporary relocation. 

So. We are in the process of temporarily moving our little family back to Pennsylvania after being in Texas for almost three years for some personal reasons that I'll share sooner rather than later, but I'm just not quite ready at the moment. I'm due in July with little man and am planning to give birth here. One Texas baby and one Pennsylvania baby! This will be quite an adventure, I keep telling myself. 

Everything has been kind of a whirlwind lately. We planned and executed a move within about three weeks because we decided at the time it would be the best thing for our family. We'll need a whole bunch of support surrounding us in the next several months and we will definitely have that here, but it didn't make it any easier saying goodbye to the place we found home the last few years. 

It's actually funny that I was so sad leaving San Antonio because of how much I had absolutely hated it when I first moved (no offense to anyone!). When we first moved there almost three years ago, it was like any place that you haven't grown up or know anything about; new. I was so incredibly homesick and missed the familiarity of where I had grown up. The roads were different, the stores were different, the pace was much slower, the people were different, and the weather was different. Seasons? Yeah, forget it. San Antonio doesn't experience seasons. Summer extends itself for half the year and you have a short burst of fall-like weather for about three months. 

 Little by little, as time went on and Penelope was born, we fixated ourselves into a routine. We explored, immersed ourselves in this different culture, enjoyed slowing down and soaking up life in a new place. We made friends, we wore sandals and tank tops for most of the year (yes!), and ate a lot of great food. We started a family and a life in San Antonio and it soon started holding a special place in my heart and forever will. 

We'll of course be back after we have dealt with some things that are headed our way in the next few months and have hopefully come out stronger and better for them, but it still is pretty bittersweet. 

For now, we need to find it in ourselves to re-adjust and explore in not so much a new place, but a new little journey we have to take in our lives. I have to say I am a little excited to go to a real pumpkin patch this fall in fall-like weather and not '80 degree, wear sunblock or you'll burn" weather. It's been a while!

It's funny how life has its ways of changing things up when they are least expected, crashing into you like a ton of bricks at first, but soon you start to see a little light forming or at least some hope that things will turn out better, and you most of all, will turn our stronger for moving on and living through it. 

So, that's my rant today. Here's to new places, difficult journeys, and the strength to forge on, even when sometimes, you're not quite sure you have it in you. You always do. 

My Skincare Basics

Skincare! I wanted to share a few of my skincare favorites with everyone. I don't really have a special skincare routine but I do have a few products that I love and make my skin feel awesome. I'm not claiming to know anything really about skincare and definitely can't tell you what would work best for different types of skin. Not claiming to be a skincare genius but I do know what I like to use after many trials. I know what makes my skin look better and figured I would share that with you guys and get some feedback! I'm always looking for different skincare products and new things to try. so recommendations are encouraged!

I wrote a post on here about coconut oil a while ago. I absolutely love it and still use it, especially during my pregnancies. I used it morning and night on my belly when I was pregnant with Penelope and continue to use it now while pregnant once again. It completely hydrates my skin and makes it feel super smooth but it also helps with stretch marks. I didn't really get many or notice many after I was pregnant with Penelope. With this baby, I've noticed a few but keeping my skin hydrated, has definitely made a difference in severity.

Aside from coconut oil, which I just use on my belly at the time, I've found a few different products recently that I started using on my face and body. I kinda just stumbled upon some of these products while at Target, while getting a spray tan after I had Penelope, and just reading online articles/recommendations.

1. Yes to Carrots Intense Hydration Night Cream 

I have always used the Yes brand since I stumbled on it in Target a couple years ago but I recently was looking for a facial cream to keep my skin from drying out. Living in Texas has made my skin SO incredibly dry and my face has gotten the worst of it. This cream which I use at night before bed isn't greasy or super thick and keeps my skin pretty soft and hydrated. I've definitely seen a complete difference since I have started using it. The price isn't too bad either compared to other skincare products. It's under $15! You can find it online or at Target : YesToCarrotsNightFaceCream 

2. Hylunia Colloidal Silver Spray

I found this facial spray when I was getting a spray tan before my brother's wedding last June. When ever I visit back home in PA, I go to the same place to get a spray tan because they do such a great job and yep, I am kind of addicted to them when I'm not pregnant or nursing. The spray tans at this place are completely organic and so they sell organic body products as well. I found this facial mist/spray there and decided to give it a try, even though it was a little more expensive than I'd like to pay when trying something out the first time. Impulses! The spray is a facial mist/ spray toner that you can use at any time of day. It has colloidal silver and lavender in it, which help soothe the skin, keep it clean, and glowing. People use it for acne, burns, irritations, and even after waxing to calm their skin when it starts to flare. I started using it in the morning before applying moisturizer and makeup and at night before I put on the hydration night cream. I've noticed it keeps my face looking bright and clean. The reviews are fantastic on it as well. It's a little pricy but under $35 and free shipping and free returns if you aren't happy with the product. You can find this on the Hylunia website: HyluniaColloidalSilverMist

3. Yes to Cucumbers Daily Calming Moisturizer 

More Yes Brand. I love their products and see a difference after using all of them. This one in particular I started using on and off a couple years ago. I wanted something a little lighter for the day that I could put on in the morning before putting makeup on, the days I would go to work. I don't typically wear makeup the days I am home to let my skin breathe. Those days I just use the intense hydration cream during the day as well, to keep my face really moisturized but on days when I wear makeup, I use this daily moisturizer as a base. This product is super light and is formulated to work with sensitive skin. I have the most sensitive skin you could imagine and have no issues using this moisturizer and have noticed that it doesn't cause my face to look greasy during the day, which is something I've struggled with in the past. It's under $15 and you can find it at Target: YestoCucumbersDailyMoisturizer

4. Jergens Natural Glow Firming Moisturizer 

I tend to switch up the lotions/moisturizers I use on my body often, depending on the season. Currently I am using this product and love it. The Jergens natural glow has a gradual tanner in the lotion which develops a pretty even tan on your skin while moisturizing it. Since I can't really get my spray tans like I normally do, I decided to give this a try in place of my normal lotion. I put this on my body after the shower every other night and have not only noticed a nice glow covering my almost translucent legs but also my legs are super soft! The other awesome aspect of this lotion is that it doesn't smell like a self-tanner! This is a super cheap product that really works and gives you a nice little glow as well. It is under $10 and you can find it at Target, Walmart, etc. or online: JergensNaturalGlow

5. Yes to Cucumbers Gentle Milk Cleanser

This is turning into a Yes brand post and I promise it is not sponsored. I just really love this stuff. The gentle milk cleanser is the only type of facial cleanser I use. I use it in the shower to wash my face every night before bed. Other than that, I don't really use anything else on my face in terms of facial wash or cleansing products. The reason I love this product is because it's not harsh, doesn't feel like it's taking layers off of your skin, and is really light. I found that it is super soothing and my face feels really fresh and clean after using it. I apply the hydration cream soon after and feel like my face is super soft and fresh before I go to bed. This is under $10 and can be found at Target: YestoCucumbersCleanser

Some other products I have ordered and am really liking right now: 

Bio-Oil : I've read really great reviews on this product and saw it at Babies R Us recently as well. I also heard that it works really well for the prevention of stretch marks and the appearance if you already have them. I just ordered it and am planning to start using it and see how I like it! 

Let me know what your favorite skincare products are and what you recommend!