What's In My Hospital Bag

 

I did a ton of research on what all I should bring in my hospital bag and wanted to share what I personally packed in mine along with a recap of what I actually used. 

I used my trusty old Vera Bradley duffel that I have had since college (girl has been around).  I have heard people bring roller suitcases for an easier carry but this duffel worked fine.  I was able to pack my stuff, Kyle's and the baby's all in one bag.  We also brought a second bag with snacks and any little extras.

 

What I packed:

 

Random Items:

- Laundry bag: We just threw all the dirty items in there and that made for easier cleanup once we were home.

- Water bottle: Our nurses brought water when we asked but it was also nice to be able to fill up our own if we needed to.

- Hair ties: As soon as I was in the car to go to the hospital my hair went up.  I ended up loosing that one during labor...always good to have extras.

- Chapstick: Hospital air is dry and with all the breathing during labor your lips get chapped, don't forget this!

- Toiletries: I just packed travel sizes of deodorant (super important!), shampoo and conditioner, toothbrush and toothpaste, etc.  

- Dry Shampoo: Also important if you don't feel like washing/doing your hair.

- Makeup wipes: I didn't wear makeup my whole time at the hospital but it was nice to use a wipe just to freshen up.

- Plastic Folder: Random but they give you so much paperwork to take home with you.  It was nice to have a place to put it all.

- Towel: Nope not for the shower...I brought this in the car just in case my water broke while driving over.  The hospital will provide towels for the shower but you could totally bring your own if you want.

- Plastic bag: Another thing for the car.  I got a little nauseous during labor so this was my barf bag.  Luckily didn't need to use it but handy to have just in case.

- Pillow and blanket: I actually didn't bring either of these for myself, just went with what the hospital had.  Kyle did bring his own pillow and we brought a blanket for him.

- Prenatals: It's important to keep taking your prenatals even after you deliver (especially if you are breastfeeding).  Make sure you bring yours so you don't skip a day.  I just packed a few in a plastic bag.

- Snacks: We weren't sure what the eating situation would be like with Covid going on as well as just timing.  We brought a bag of all kinds of snacks. Some things I packed: Gatorade, cookies, candy, crackers, protein bars.  Easy things to munch on if we couldn't get food at that time.  Our hospital actually gave us a little bag with snacks and then served me three meals and Kyle could go down and pick up food from the cafeteria.  The first thing I ate after delivery was definitely a little bag of chocolate chip cookies. 

- Phone Charger: Updating everyone and taking ALL the pictures you need to make sure you have your charger!  Some people said to bring a long charger, we just brought our regular ones and they worked out fine.

- Nursing Pillow: I brought one but it never made it out of the car.

- Nipple Cream: YES!  First Time mamas especially make sure you have some!  I brought some coconut oil as well as this nipple butter.

Clothing items:

- Nursing bra: I wore one to the hospital and then I packed one as well.  A good amount of the time I pretty much went without.  With Covid we didn't have any visitors so I didn't really get ready or change clothes that much.

- Breast pads: packed and didn't use

- Leggings: I wasn't sure what I would feel like wearing but I didn't end up using these.

- Joggers/sweatpants: I wanted something loose and comfy so my joggers were perfect.

- Dressed to deliver gown: I didn't use this to deliver and thought I might change into it after but ended up being another item I didn't really use there.

- Nursing tanks: These are nice to wear even without a bra.  When breastfeeding, especially at the beginning, you just need easy access.

- Cardigan: My temperature was all over the place, sometimes hot sometimes cold.  It was nice to have a cardigan to throw on in case I got cold.

- Underwear: Packed but didn't use.

- Flip-Flops: We picked up $1 pairs for the hospital shower and just walking around.  

Baby Items:

- Blanket: It was April when our baby was born and it was a little chilly.  I was glad to have a cozy blanket to wrap over her in the carseat to take her home.  The hospital will wrap the baby up in a blanket there as well.

- Two outfits: We really only ended up using the one to take her home.  I recommend bringing multiple sizes if you have them.  She was too small for the newborn clothes that we brought.

- Name sign: I got a cute little sign with her name for pictures.  There are so many fun picture photo props, check out etsy!

- Sound Machine: We tried to use it one night but I don't really think it made a difference.  Probably wouldn't bring it again.

- Carseat: Make sure you have it installed in the car, they won't let you leave without it!

What the hospital provided:

- Postpartum essentials: I didn't need anything extra, they provided all the things I needed (mesh underwear, witch hazel pads, pads, peri bottle, dermaplast).

- Baby items: They also provided a small pack of diapers, wipes, nose aspirator and shampoo/baby wash.

What I wish we brought:

- Zip swaddles: Next baby we will be bringing these!  We both aren't that great at swaddling with a blanket and having those zip swaddles makes it so much easier!  No breaking out and no risk of covering the face, makes it so much easier to relax and sleep.

Yes I over packed and didn't use everything I brought but I didn't want Kyle to have to leave and go get anything.  The hospital was really great and had all the things we needed.  Let me know down below your hospital bag must-haves!

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Dollar Tree Beauty Haul

I stopped by Dollar Tree a few days ago and snagged some goodies.  I always check out the beauty aisle, sometimes they have brand name products.  You just never know.

I picked up these blemish patches, haven't tried them yet because I'm breastfeeding but I'm excited to see if they work.  I've heard influencers talk about blemish patches in general and they sound neat.  

Scored a brand name product!  Picked up these Real Techniques blotting cushions.  I thought they might be a good travel option for makeup application or just to throw in my purse. 

Last find was definitely my favorite, these trimmers are AWESOME!  I have been using these to get rid of facial hair and they work perfectly.  I almost purchased some from Amazon but these work so well and were SO cheap!

Small haul but I scored some goodies, let me know what you have found at the Dollar Tree lately!

Pregnancy Must-Haves

 

Just a new mama rounding up info and things I found helpful during my pregnancy that I wanted to share. 

Prenatal vitamins: These are the vitamins I took but you can take whatever brand you like, make sure it has folic acid.  I found these easy to take and didn't taste bad.  I actually started taking these about 1-2 months before I was pregnant to make sure that my body was preparing and getting all the nutrients stored up for pregnancy.

Nursing bra: Your body changes and things are growing so you'll probably need a bigger bra.  I didn't want to go out and buy a larger bra just to have to buy nursing bras later so I just went ahead and got the nursing bras and wore those.  These are super comfy you can even sleep in them.

Dates: Random but I really feel like these made a difference, not so much in my pregnancy but in my labor/delivery.  I did a ton of research and read that dates help with cervical ripening which helps shorten labor and increase cervical dilation.  This was my first baby so I don't know how my body naturally responds to labor but I was dilated 1cm at 38 weeks and then a few days before my due date I was 2-3cm.  I'll share my labor story soon but I was dilated pretty quick.  I don't know how much the dates had to play in all that but they sure didn't hurt.  They recommend starting to eat 4-6 dates a day at around 36 weeks.  I ate them with peanut butter, in smoothies and at the beginning all on their own.  Towards the end I was so tired of dates and even now I don't want to eat any dates, but if it makes for a shorter labor I'll chow down on some.

Cocoa butter lotion: I used this through my entire pregnancy every night and hardly have any stretch marks.  I have heard that stretch marks are genetic and you really can't prevent them but hey anything to moisturize and maybe help prevent is good.

Exercise ball: Again I did a lot of research and watch so many labor/pregnancy videos that spoke the wonders of an exercise ball.  There are so many things you can do to help baby get in the right position and just get a little more comfortable yourself.  Towards the end of my pregnancy I would sit on the ball at the end of the day and do hip circles to try and loosen up my pelvis.  I had bad sciatic nerve pain during some of my pregnancy and this helped as well to take some pressure off.  I also used it when I was laboring at home to sway and take some weight off my hips and move my body.  Some women bring it with them to the hospital and some hospitals provide one, I just used it at home but I do recommend getting one!

Raspberry leaf tea: Yet another research item.  I heard that it might help prepare the cervix and uterus.  My doctor recommended taking it after 34 weeks.  Don't take it before 32 weeks!  I started out with one cup in the morning and then further in my pregnancy did one cup in the morning and then made an iced version for the afternoon.  Again not sure if it helped or not but it didn't hurt.  Make sure you consult your doctor before taking this just in case.  

 Those are just a few things I found helpful for an easier pregnancy and also labor/delivery.  Let me know if you have tried any of these and be sure to leave your must-haves below!

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Instagram Roundup

Still playing catchup with the instagram roundups but I've got some cute baby things I wanted to show and a baby bump.

The prettiest bows!  I love that floral print!  These are from Chuchis Boutique on etsy and I LOVE them!

It will be a little bit before little girl uses these but how cool is this silicone feeding set?!  They have so many color options I might have to snag more.  These are from BabyBubzi on etsy.

So many neat baby tools and accessories.  Got this cart hammock from Binxy Baby in the mail and it is sure to be super handy.  You can use it as a seat for the baby or it even holds the carseat.  Saving room in the cart and it's super cute!

I LOVE this blanket and bib set from Immispace!  It has a little barn and all the farm animals on it.  The muslin blanket is so soft and perfect to use as a swaddle, nursing cover or just a blanket.  

Bump pic, 37 weeks and she was popping out finally. 

Comfy is pretty much my go to (pregnant or not).  These sneakers are definitely a favorite and I snagged them for less than $50!

That's a wrap on this week's insta catchup, make sure you are following me on instagram to see updates first!

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Looks for Less. Part 2 (Under $45)

  

Back at it with another roundup of Nordstrom looks for less.  I had so much fun looking for items for the first post that I found so many I decided to do a second post.  There are some MAJOR deals here!  I'm talking sweaters for $5 and super cute booties for less than $10!!  Don't miss out!

1. Booties: $35 These heeled faux leather booties are so flattering with the side cutout.  Perfect lookalike for a much pricier pair.

2. Button cardigan: $5 Here's the first major deal!  You just can't beat the price.  So fun and perfect buttoned or unbuttoned.  Also this brand is really nice (p.s. it is sold at Nordstrom).

3. Candle: $11 Yes to a pretty candle that smells good!  I'm over the candle prices at Bath & Bodyworks, these smell just as good and are so pretty for decor plus way more affordable.

4. Graphic tee: $15 Graphic tees are all the rage and they can get really pricey.  There are so many affordable options so you can snag a couple.

5. Sherpa pullover: $12 You can never have too many sherpa pullovers.  So comfy and cozy for cooler weather!  This one is a major steal and so cute!  Comes in other colors including a fun leopard print.

6. Faux suede jacket: $26 I love a draped jacket, so flattering.  This one is giving blanknyc vibes and I'm loving it.

7. Ruffle sweater: $5 Another MAJOR Steal!  I love the classic stripes and fun ruffle detail on the sleeves, don't miss out on this one!

8. Booties: $15 Everyone needs a classic white bootie in their closet.  So fun in the fall but also spring and summer with dresses and shorts.  Wear now and later.

9. Moto Jacket: $40 Another classic everyone needs in their closet.  I love a moto jacket for fall and winter.  Perfect with jeans or throwing on over a dress and booties.

10: Mock neck sweater: $5 Last sweater steal!  Such a crazy deal for a cozy sweater.  Again y'all this brand is sold at Nordstrom and is nice!

11. Booties: $8 I couldn't believe this price!  Less than $10 for a classic heeled bootie!  Such a STEAL!

 Let me know if you snag any of these pieces!

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Nordstrom Anniversary Looks For Less (Under $35!) Part 1

If you follow any fashion bloggers/influencers on social media you definitely know that the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is going on.  I am not a frequent Nordstrom shopper, I do browse their clearance occasionally but they have always been a little too pricey for me.  With the sale being such a hot topic I figured I would round up some pieces that give the Nordstrom vibe for WAY less.  All these items are less than $35.

1. Striped tote: $19 I have this one on my wishlist.  I love the classic stripe print.  There is a striped tote like this in the sale for SO much more.  This one is affordable and super cute!

2. Leopard pullover: $26 Giving off all the Barefoot Dreams vibes and who doesn't need a cozy leopard pullover in their life??

3. Mules: $27 There is a pair of chain mules in the sale that EVERYONE is talking about.  Now these don't have the bulky chain detail but they are a classic nude mule with gold bit that is sure to go with EVERYTHING!

4. Initial tag necklace: $11 These have been super popular for a while.  I love mine!  It looks great on its own or layered up with other necklaces.

5. Leopard slip-ons: $14 These shoes are sure to sell out!  I saw them in person at my Wal-Mart the other day and they are so comfy!  Slip-ons with a sherpa lining, perfect for comfort and warmth.

6. Cowl Neck Sweater: $16 You can't go wrong with a classic cowl neck sweater.  Size up for a more oversized fit or keep your true size for a more classic vibe.

7. Leopard Cardigan: $23 This cardigan looks so much more expensive than it is.  I love the pattern and the draped detail is so chic.

8. Peplum henley: $22 If it is a peplum I am down.  I love the waffle knit henley version of this one.

9. Leopard mules: $14 These come in a few other colors if leopard isn't your thing.  I love this pattern and the heel adds a little umph to your mule.

10. Stone charm bracelet: $16 So pretty!  Would look perfect on its own or layered up.  Gives me Kendra Scott vibes.

11. Leggings: $22 for a pack of 3!  These are a total steal!  I have heard they are similar to a Lululemon pair.

12. Peplum top: $8.99 Again you just can't go wrong with a peplum.  I love this relaxed top, may or may not be in my Amazon cart right now...

13. Booties: $32 There is a much more expensive pair of booties like these in the sale right now.  These are a total lookalike for a fraction of the price!  So flattering with the nude color, heel and cutout detail.

14. Leopard blanket: $34 A must-have for the Nordstrom sale every year!  This super soft blanket is such a good lookalike and it comes in multiple color options.

Let me know if  you score any of these deals and check back for my Part 2 coming soon!  I had way too much fun finding items that I found more to share.

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Third Trimester Recap

If you are following along you know that our sweet little baby is already here but I figured I would go ahead and round out the trimester recaps.  So about the third trimester:

 

 

My bump finally started to pop!  It really took until about 30 weeks before I had an actual baby belly.  Being pregnant during a pandemic has definitely made things a little different.  We had virtual showers, I pretty much just hang out at home all the time and I have to go to appointments by myself.  I wish we had been able to share more of this experience with our families but even with everything so strange it has been a sweet experience.  

Symptoms:

Experienced some sciatic nerve pain, doctor said she is probably sitting on my nerve.  Pretty painful actually, anyone who has that normally I completely feel for you!  Still having leg cramps at night and constant bathroom breaks.

Cravings:

I expected to have all kinds of crazy cravings during pregnancy but I really haven't.  Mexican food always sounds good and I still just want the off limits turkey sandwich.

Kicks:

She is kicking and moving around all the time!  So neat to feel her little movements.

We have been taking time to really get things ready.  We put together the crib and set up her nursery.  Hospital bags are packed up (post coming soon!)  We are also just trying to enjoy time together before we are a family of three. 

Labor Prep:

With her delivery date approaching I have been watching all the videos and trying to get prepared as best as I can.  I am also eating 4-6 dates everyday and drinking red raspberry leaf tea.  I am definitely nervous for the unknown but am excited for the experience and to finally meet our little girl.  

Third trimester was a sweet time of preparation.  I finally looked pregnant and got to show off my belly.  Yes I was uncomfortable and yes there were many times I was tired of being pregnant but looking back on those pictures I can't believe my body was holding (and growing) our sweet baby.