24-25 weeks Pregnancy Update & Lovely Things

Weeks 24-25 have been good to me!  I had my prenatal appointment Wednesday, and my hubs came with me. Seeing his reaction when he heard the baby's heartbeat, took me back to when I was pregnant with Masha.  The love in his eyes;  priceless! Since my last appointment a month ago, I have gained four pounds.  I an weighing in at 130 now.  It is definitely noticeable!  Like I mentioned in my last update, I can see a lot of the weight in my bust and lately in my backside too ;) I didn't notice at first, but recently I was like "where did YOU come from?!". 

 

My cravings have been mostly fruits and burgers.  One of my favorite places to shop is Trader Joes.  Great prices on produce and my favorite berries.  I also always pick up a bunch of different snacks like almonds, sunflower seeds, cliff bars, and apple sauce. Whenever I am out and about, you never though when hunger will strike.  Especially since I am constantly running after a two year old (Mom's of toddlers, I know you can relate!). 

 

I am so thankful that Masha still naps three hours a day.  Often times, it really gives me some time to catch up on paperwork for our business and make dinner.  If I am really tired, I just lay down myself. And let me tell you how awesome it is to get a power nap!  One thing that is out of the way is potty training.  That was my MAJOR goal for this year.  It  takes a lot of stress off my shoulders because I really didn't want to deal with a newborn and potty training.  Potty training is a full time job, no kidding.  It really is about being consistent and rewarding the child.  After a while, it comes automatically. 

 

Overall I am feeling energetic.  My bump is getting heavier and I can see it taking a toll on my back.   I have my glucose screening coming up in a couple weeks. Trying to stay positive about that since my experience with Masha was not the best.  Either way, I am excited for the weeks to come.  Can't wait to meet this little angel.

 

Here are some photos:

 

 

 

 

 

24 weeks pregnant! Anna Maria Island with family and friends.  I love going here!!

 

VS Swimsuit Top (Similar here & here) & Seafolly Bottom  (Similar here & here)

 

 

 

My lil one telling a boy to "Be Careful".  Cutest thing ever.

 

Swimsuit, Salt Water Sandals, Blue Hair Bow 

 

 

 

 

Late night snacking :)

 

 

 Love my Upsie Belly Support!  It has been a life saver and really helps with my posture.  I don't wear it all the time, but usually whenever I feel pain, I put it on.  Probably later on in pregnancy, it will come more in handy.  I highly recommend this if you are petite with a large bust.

 

 

 

I love Joe Muggs Cafe!  Don't go here often but I had a huge sweet tooth and was craving their Mocha Frappe.  THE best!  Here is Masha mesmerized by all the sweets :)

 

Joyfolie Dress & Shoes 

 

 

My sunshine!

 

Crewcuts Dress Sold Out (Similar here & here), Boutique Shoes Sold Out (Similar here & here), Hair Bow

 

 

 

 

Masha loves animals! She will literally see a dog and start running after it.  I always have to chase her down and ask if it is ok to pet.  Luckily our neighbor has the sweetest dog.  He is deaf and older, and he puts up with all of Masha's funny tricks. 

 

Gap tank , Gap shorts, Zara leopard shoes  Sold Out (Similar here & here& here), Joyfolie Hair Clip

 

 

 Picked up some matching bathing suits for my girls!

 

Swimsuits

 

 

How precious is this outfit! Love shopping for little girl clothing.

 

Baby Gap leggings, Baby Gap cardigan, Joyfolie Shoes & Headband

 

 

These two are my world!

 

 

 

Teaching Masha to ride her bike.  She wanted to wear her mittens and hat ALL day! I let her of course, she finally figured it was too hot half way through our walk.  Kids do the funniest things, I tell ya!

 

Gap Tank, Gap Shorts Sold Out ( Love these & these), Salt Water Sandals, Radio Flyer Tricycle

 

 

My ultimate craving!  A Juicy Cheeseburger with all the works.  Yummy!!

 

 

Our family's morning ritual:  Green Smoothie

Tastes delicious and Masha has a cup too!  Love the energy after one of these!  We buy either local or organic produce.   We always mix up our ingredients but here is the basic one that we use:

 

Water

Spinach

Romaine Leaves

Half Lemon Squeezed

Celery

Apple (peeled)

Pear

Banana

Flax Seed Oil

Chai Seeds

 

(I do everything by eye)  If you have any smoothie recipes, please share.

 

 

 

 

 

My cutie on the elevator.  How cute are her pigtails?!

 

Crewcuts Tank, Crewcuts Skirt Sold Out (Similar here & here),  Salt Water Sandals

 

 

Love having a pool by our place.  Great to escape if we don't go to the beach.  Plus I love swimming as exercise.

 

 

25 Weeks Pregnant! 

 

Truth Pride Blazer Sold Out (Similar here & here), Wildfox tee Sold Out (Similar here & here), Zara Jeans Sold Out (Love these & these), J Crew Panama Hat

 

 

 

Visiting one of my fav spots: Le Petite Bistrot, a cute little French bistro on Venice Island.  Love their crepes!!

 

 

My little flower :)  She loves her accessories.  Always asks to put on her bracelets or necklace.  I love the options at Gap and Crewcuts!

 

Gap Tank, Shorts Sold Out (Similar here & here), Joyfolie Shoes, Gap Bracelets Sold Out, Love these & these 

 

 

She makes me so happy!

 

 

25 1/2 Weeks Pregnant.  Luckily I still fit in most of my regular clothing, but I do love wearing a few of the pieces I picked up from Asos.  Love their maternity selection!

 

I also got a hair cut finally! I have been putting it off, but had a day to myself (Thank you Grandparents!!) and went to see my favorite spot, James Griffith Salon.  Jill is miracle worker! After my hair cut, I felt like a million bucks.  I seriously could not believe it was my hair.  Check it out if your in my area.

 

AG Destroyed Jeans  Sold Out (Similar here & here), Gap Tank, Zara Heels  Sold Out (Similar here & here), J Crew Panama Hat, Kate Spade Pink Purse (Similar here & here and Love this one)

 

  

 

 

 

Thank you for reading!

 

Hope everyone has a wonderful rest of their week!

 

P.S. With Labor Day, comes tons of great sales, especially online.  Make sure to use Ebates, and earn cash back and get a free Target gift card too!

 

 

 

A Few Lovely Things

Hope everyone is having a great weekend! 


Here are a few recent buys I have been loving (and so has my little girl)  She has been all about coloring and stickers lately.  She is such a big girl now.  Potty training is out of the way. Yay!!

Plus I started buying a few pieces for the new baby, I just can't help it.  Girls are so much fun to shop for.






Thanks for stopping by!

Pregnancy/Maternity Must Haves: Upsie Belly Support Band, Belly Bandit, Clarisonic Mia, Coconut Oil, Mother's DHA

 

Upsie Belly Support Band

 

Last pregnancy my mom told me to buy a belly support band, and well, I didn't.  This time around, I bought it as soon as I got a chance.  Reason:  I'm on the petite side and my bust gets enormous during pregnancy, and in turn my back suffers.  Plus this will be great in the later months too because I was all belly with Masha and let me tell you, a little support would have helped.  I felt like I was always about to topple over. 

 

Here are some benefits from using one:

 

Minimizes stretch marks

Adds back and abdominal support

Helps relieve bladder discomfort

Increases circulation and blood flow

Eases sciatic, back and leg pain

Provides extra support to hips

Decreases varicose veins, hernias & hemorrhoids

12” of adjustability to grow with your belly

Aids in post hysterectomy recovery

I love that it comes with a hot/cold soothing pack! And what's great is that this can be worn AFTER delivery for extra relief.

 

 

Belly Bandit Couture Black Lace Print

 

 

I used this religiously for about 3 months after birth! I thought I would share it since it's best to buy a couple of these before so you have it on hand right after delivery.  Muscles tend to separate and weaken during pregnancy, and this aids to bringing them back together.  My mom mentioned back in the day woman would wear girdles.  This is definitely more comfortable than that.  I even slept in mine most of the time.  This helps compress the stomach, hips, and waist and you will be back to prepregnancy shape in no time.  This time around a bought a few more to change out.  I bought a small and xs because I noticed how fast my tummy shrank! There are tons of fun designs, and they can be worn under or over your clothing.  Highly recommend!!

Clarisonic Mia

Pregnancy really changes everything; from your skin to your hair.  I noticed that my skin tends to get dry quicker these days.  I received one of these babies for my birthday, and I love it!  I use it about 1-2 times a week to help smooth out any dry patches. It truly is amazing! It leaves my skin texture silky smooth.  It cleans out the pores, making them look smaller and feels like a mini facial at home.  I know a few friends who suffer from acne and this has been a miracle worker.  It exfoliates their skin and leaves them feeling more confident. And plus it comes in tons of fun colors.  I love my pink one!

Elemis Japanese Camellia Oil Blend


I mentioned this product in my Holy Grail Must Haves, and I have to mention it again since I am absolutely obsessed!

 

Ladies, this product is heaven sent! I am currently pregnant with my second child, and I use this religiously 2 times a day.  Many people say you "can't" prevent stretch marks, but it is definitely worth trying! This product leaves my baby bump smooth and moisturized and has a refreshing light scent.  I actually use it all over my body especially areas that I prone to stretching during pregnancy.  Even if your not pregnant, this can help smooth out your skin texture and leave you feeling Oh So Lovely!  This is a must have in my world!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Organic Coconut Oil

 

 

 

 

 

I'm currently using this as a moisturizer after I wash my face.  Also since I spend many days in the sun, I like using this on my hair especially the ends to add moisture.  I also use Beachcomber Budd's Coconut Oil (Straight from Hawaii!!) while I am at the beach since skin tends to dry out easy. My skin has never felt softer! Oh and it smells wonderful, a true classic coconut smell, this coming from an overly sensitive pregnant woman!  These two are my favorites!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Carlson Mother's DHA

 

 

One that I forgot to mention before is the Carlson Mother's DHA.  I take these twice a day with a meal.  I highly recommend these for pregnant and lactating mothers.  I took these with last pregnancy and while nursing.  DHA is an important nutrient for the optimal development of an infant's brain and eyes during pregnancy.  And it helps improve milk quality as well. 

For a full list prenatal vitamins I'm taking, read here.

 

 

 

Do you have any Pregnancy/Maternity Must Haves?  I'm thinking of picking up a Snoozer full body pillow.  Do any of you have one and love it?

 

 

 

Thanks for dropping by!  Have a lovely rest of your week!

 

 

 

 

22-23 weeks Pregnancy Update





I'm currently 23 weeks and feeling better than ever! I had a prenatal appointment recently and have gained 4 lbs since last visit a month ago.  I'm weighing in at 126, so I have gained a total of 11 lbs.   And I had another ultrasound, it was amazing seeing my little princess again.  She is weighing in at 1 lb 3 oz and is about the size of a large mango.  She is kicking and twirling all over the place.  Both Alex and Masha have felt her kicks, it's an amazing feeling.

 

We have been going to the beach almost everyday.  Swimming in the ocean and enjoying the glorious scenery.  Walking along the beach and seeing my loves playing in the water, there is nothing better than that.  I feel so blessed to live close to the water.  There are such great spots around here.  Some of my favorites are Siesta Key, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, and Lido Key.  If you ever want to getaway on vacation, check these out!  With the weather being extremely hot recently, it's the best escape.  I hate being coped up in the house, plus it is great to get fresh air for all of us.  We try to go in the morning or afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.

 

My craving have been watermelon and raspberries. Having a major sweet tooth doesn't help, thank goodness for fruit though!!  One thing I absolutely love is burgers!  We stopped by this amazing restaurant on Anna Maria called Duffy's Tavern.  My hubby's fav place and I fell in love as well.  Their burgers are to die for! I ordered their "World Famous Burger" with all the works.  My hubs had a fresh jalapeno and Havarti cheeseburger.   Ok I am getting hungry just thinking about it, lol!

Check it out if your ever in town!

 

 

  

 

23 weeks...

VS Swimsuit (Similar here and here)

Love this top

 

 

 

My daily breakfast partner.  Our favorite is blueberry waffles with raspeberries and strawberries and scrambled eggs.  I love having my earl grey tea with a little honey and milk.   

 

Anthropologie Monogram mug

 

(Love these too!!)

 

 

23 weeks:  Heading to the park.  My hubby's favorite shirt on me ;)

 

Superman Top

Gap 1969 White Shorts, On Sale!

Tory Reva Burch Flats

 

 

 

My hubby found one of my fav rose gold rings! I thought I lost it at the beach.  Isn't that the best feeling!  Thought it was gone forever.

 

OPI Cajun Shrimp, Zara Black Flats (Similar Designer here and love these!)

 

 

Outfit Details:

 

Asos Dress Sold Out, (Similar here and love this stripe one, and how beautiful is this!)

OPI Nails

Henri Bendel Bangles (Great Options here and here)

Vintage Bangles (Love these and this one)

Vintage Turquoise Ring (Similar and love this one)

 

 

 

Right after my ultrasound! Super excited to see my lil one again! She was fully awake, heart beat was over 170 beats a minute. Healthy and growing nicely!  Reason I had to come back for second ultrasound was because she was sleeping last time, and they needed to take a few more clear shots of her organs. 

 

Asos Dress

Necklace Sold out, Similar here and here

 

 

22 Week baby bump, love watching it grow by the week!

 

 

My munchkin loves the beach!  Love seeing her excitement!

 

Swimsuit (Cute options!), Hair Bow

 

 

 My two loves enjoying the ocean...the water is refreshing in this hot weather!

 

Building sand castles with daddy

 

Swim Suit (Similar here and here), Baby Gap Hat (Similar here and here)

 



 

Anna Maria Island is out of this world! The water is crystal clear.  Highly recommend visiting!


 

22 Weeks...

 

Trina Turk Swim Suit, Sold Out (Similar here and here)

Love these top options (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)

 

 

Cooling off at the fountains before bedtime...

 

Swim Suit (Love this 2 piece ballerina option), Salt Water Sandals 

 

 

 

Thank you for following by pregnancy journey! 

 

 

Check back in a couple days, I am going to post a few maternity must haves!

 

 

 

 

 

My Holy Grail Beauty Products

 

 

 We all have those products we can't live without, and I thought it would be fun to share some of my holy grail items. Do you have any products that you absolutely LOVE?  Please share!  I love learning about new products.  I'm still on the look out for the perfect eyeliner!

 

 

 

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer

 

I am a "little" crazy about this primer!  Ladies, if you don't wear a primer under your foundation/tinted moisturizer, get a sample and try it out today!   Feels like silk on the skin.  It's not heavy or greasy like some I have used in the past and goes on smoothly. Helps my tinted moisturizer stay on longer and look so natural.  Most people don't even realize I'm wearing anything, which is what we all want. 

 

 

 

 

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer

 

After years of wearing traditional foundations that feel heavy on the skin, I was introduced to this amazing tinted moisturizer and I am hooked! Not only does it make my skin look flawless, but it gives just enough coverage without that "cakey" look.  I use the pressed setting powder over it to set it and voila! I'm ready for the day. 

 

 

 

 

 

Laura Mercier Faux Lash Mascara

 

I know, there is a trend going here.  I am such a huge fan of theirs (and no I don't get sponsored by them!) Before this mascara I have tried many others, but after I tried this one, Let's just say, I don't need to continue searching for that "perfect" mascara.  It has a large easy to use brush that gives volume and length without much effort.   If you are a fan of Dior Show or Shocking YSL, try this one and see what you think! It looks like I am wearing fake eyelashes but more of a natural look.  People ask me all the time if my lashes are "real"!

 

 

 

 

Shiseido Eyelash Curler

 

Some people are blessed with naturally curled eyelashes...Let's just say I need a special little tool to achieve that.  I have straight, long eyelashes.  It gives my lashes the perfect shape without pinching.  I love how it covers ALL my lashes and really opens up my eyes.  Definitely a great investment!

 

Laura Mercier Ambre Vanillé Soufflé Body Crème

 

I received this as a gift from my lovely MIL and let me just say, I am totally repurchasing this after I am finished.  I might try another scent for fun; the Crème Brulee is divine.  Don't let the price scare you away, this will last you for a long time! A little goes a long way.  I use it right after I get out of the shower and it smells heavenly.  My hubs absolutely adores the scent! I am thrilled at how moisturizing it is, and honestly even if you forget to put on perfume, no worries, this will make people stop and ask what you are wearing!  This is seriously heaven in a tube. 

 

 

 

 

 

Badgers Organic Sunscreen Base with Zinc Oxide

 

I live in Florida and I constantly go to the beach with my little one.  Badgers is my favorite brand of sunscreens!  Read more here about their natural ingredients and how they protect with minerals and not chemicals.  It has a white thick consistency and takes a little bit of getting use to, however I have been using this product for a few years and have not burned once!  I also buy the baby version for my toddler. 

 

 

 

Kiehl's Amino Acid Shampoo with Pure Coconut Oil

 

I have a long history with my hair.  Let's just say I didn't have any for a very long time.  Read a small part here.  When I finally had hair again, I was on a search for an amazing shampoo/conditioner and this one really stood out to me.  I wash my hair twice a week, and I've tried different hair care products but this one is the best by far. The light coconut scent is natural and soothing. It lathers very well, and leaves my hair luxuriously soft and clean after each wash.  I use it with the Amino Acid conditioner. I remember when I was using another shampoo, my scalp would get a flaky by the third day, and with this one, I don't have that problem! Definitely a worthwhile purchase.

 

 

 

 

 

Croc Greenion Hair Dryer

 

Where do I start?! Since starting to use this incredible hair dryer, I have cut my drying time in half!

My Stylist friend uses this on her clients at a high end salon in Seattle, WA, so there was my recommendation! I am in love! No more frizzy hair and long drying time!  I don't have the luxury of spending an hour getting that voluminous blow out (my hair is super long!) But with this hair dryer, when I section of my hair, it is dry in 15 minutes and I have the smooth shiny hair.  I recommend it to everyone!

 

 

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick - Rose

 

OMG! Best product ever.  It does everything a girl dreams of.  I was first introduced this product when I was 17 vacationing in Seattle, WA and happened to stop by Nordstrom.  The lovely sales lady put a few sweeps over my cheeks and honestly, I felt like a million bucks!  I couldn't afford it at the time, but I kept regretting not purchasing it.  Several months later, I did just that! And I have been buying it since. It gives me that rosy glow and sheen, and looks natural! I use it as my eye shadow too! This one will never leave my side.

 

Elemis Japanese Camellia Oil Blend

 

Ladies, this product is heaven sent! I am currently pregnant with my second child, and I use this religiously.  Many people say you "can't" prevent stretch marks, but it is definitely worth trying! This product leaves my baby bump smooth and moisturized and has a refreshing light scent.  I actually use it all over my body especially areas that I prone to stretching during pregnancy.  Even if your not pregnant, this can help smooth out your skin texture and leave you feeling Oh So Lovely!  This is a must have in my world!

Check out the full guest feature on Bronzed Sundaze. 

Thank you Alex for featuring me on your lovely blog!

 

 

 

 Hope everyone has a fabulous week! XOXO!