5 on Friday

1. I confess . . . I went 9 months without trimming my hair and this past Tuesday I finally went. Yikes! Why do I always wait so long? It was so needed and I feel so refreshed. I need to stop being so cheap and start pampering myself a little more. 

2. I confess . . . I'm in desperate need of a massage. My back and neck from breast feeding, looking down constantly at my precious baby and the lack of ab muscles from my pregnancy and c-section have really taken a toll on my back and posture. 

Maybe I'll treat myself to one for CT's birthday. I'm sure he will love that gift!  

3. I confess . . . I get excited to change a diaper these days. 

How can you not when it looks like this? CT and I have begun cloth diapering while at home and when we are out of the house for short periods of time. Things are going great so far and I love keeping those pennies in our account!

Plus, look how cute he is. Our chunky monkey in his farm print! Love it!! 

4. I confess . . . pumping to build up our milk freezer stash is exhausting. So far we have about 200 oz in 8 weeks but my goal is 500 by the time I go back to work in 8 weeks. I better get off the pc and go have a date with my double electric. 

5. I confess . . . I'm super excited to complete my first 'girl' puff quilt for a customer. Coral and mint looks so pretty together! 

If you are new stopping by - thanks! - but I hope you'll stay longer and follow along! 

Linking up with: The Farmers Wife, Lauren Elizabeth, A Little Bit of Everything, XOXO Rebecca, A Blonde Ambition.

Fall Fashion: Boots

My favorite part of fall (besides my shows which start back up this week) is the fashion. Scarves, jeans, hoodies and boots. I have a few pairs of boots that I've purchased more than once because when I wear them - I realllly wear them. I've also had the heals on those boots replaced because like I said, I really wear them. 

Check out these beauties that I'd love to have join my closet. 

1. TOM's look alike Bootie  

($39.95)

super comparable to TOM's but half the price. Check them out - there are SOO many different colors.

2. Madden Girl Riding Boots 

($55.52)

I love this Cognac color because it would go with everything. Everyone needs a pair of shoes in this color - flats or boots. 

3. Combat Boots
($24.15)
My little sister has been all about these boots. They are super cute on her and all her teeny bopper friends and I'd love to own a pair but I'm unsure if I could pull them off. 


4. Camo Combat Boots
($21.99)
I've been obsessed lately with styling Kingston in camo - but I've realized it's totally a unisex pattern and girls can pull it off just as well. 


5. Quilted Boots
($41.52)
Love these!


Who knew Amazon sold such cute stuff at super affordable prices?
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5 on Friday

I love these types of posts because it's a time where I can get totally random and just spew whatever is on my mind! 

1. If anyone knows me or follows me on Instagram, you know that I love to 'craft'. I dabble in just about any and everything. Right now I'm obsessed with accessories for my little man. Check out what I've been working on this week. 

The top two bandana bibs are going out to a lucky little fellow but every bib I make for someone else I make one for Kingston too. Win win! Also, I upcycled this children's place jacket into a vest. I found it at a consignment store for $1.50 - cut off the sleeves, took a blade to it and added a little bleach! 

So cute and so trendy! 

2. This year I'm planning on making most of my Christmas gifts (if friends or family read this - act surprised when you get them!). I might as well put my craftiness to good use and save a little money. I'm thinking jewelry, scarves, candles . . . who knows! 

What handmade gift is your go to? I can always use new ideas. 

This is one gift I made - a hand embroidered monogram necklace. 

Think about all the different possibilities. 

3. The countdown has begun. I'm anxiously awaiting next Thursday night - Grey's Anatomy, Scandal and How To Get Away With Murder.

 Check out what else I'm watching this fall.

4.  CT has his first home football game tomorrow. Fingers crossed that Kingston has a better second half then he did at his last football game. He gets super fussy when he's tired, but I'm not complaining because when he does sleep he sleeps for 7+ hours (at 7 weeks - go BabyWise!). 

5. I officially have two months left on maternity leave. It's crazy how fast time is going by. If only I could be on permanent maternity leave and stay at home with my baby forever. *sigh* A girl can dream. If you'd like to help me accomplish this goal - check out my Etsy shop. 

I'd give anything to stay at home with this cutie all day every day! 

Linking up with: The Farmers Wife, Lauren Elizabeth, A Little Bit of Everything, XOXO Rebecca, A Blonde Ambition.

Kingston's Closet - Crushin'

Just a few items I'm crushin' on for Kingston's closet. 

both via

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Etsy has some really fun graphic tee's for the little ones and I'm trying to decide which one Kingston needs first. Santa needs to hurry up and come because my wallet can't handle all this cuteness. 

Help me decide - which is your favorite? 

5 on Friday

1. Well, fall has smacked us right in the face with the whole weather change. 52 degrees today. What the fudgesicles?! Maybe I'm a baby but I had to turn on the heater in my car this morning. AND we don't really have the appropriate clothing pieces for our little man. Time for me to go find him some itty bitty jackets and sweaters. Anyone seen any good deals lately? 

2. Someone needs to make an invention that keeps a paci in a babies mouth. I know this would make my life easier. Can I get an Amen?

3. Tomorrow CT heads to Nebraska for the second weekend in a row for another football game. Kingston and I made the trip last weekend and surprisingly the drive went really well. We went up early to stop off at my parents house for a few hours and to help cut the trip time down. The first peep he made ended up being as we were pulling into town = score! Unfortunately, we messed up his 'routine' and the second half of the football game was brutal. 

I have a cranky baby when he's tired. 

 Bandana Bib

Slouchy Beanie

4. I have two small packs of disposable diapers left and then we will embark on a cloth diapering adventure. I built our cloth diaper 'stash' while I was pregnant and since having Kingston I've realized how easy and convenient disposables are. CT really wants to try them out but I need a little more convincing. 

5. Allergies suck. 

My eyes itch. My throat itches. I'm sneezing a thousand times. It's brutal. I didn't have them as a kid and came into them during college. I wish them on no one. 

Linking up with: The Farmers Wife, Lauren Elizabeth, A Little Bit of Everything, XOXO Rebecca, A Blonde Ambition.

Favorite Fall TV Shows

I use to think that Spring was my favorite season and time of year. As I've gotten older and realized that with Spring comes tornadoes, something I'm deathly afraid of, (read more about my emergency bag here) Fall has easily become my favorite season. 

Fall sports. Fall weather. Fall fashion. Fall shows.

 I love them all.

I've always been a TV junkie but since getting DVR a few years back things have only gotten worse. It's too easy to record any and every show that tickles my fancy. I'm looking forward to the end of this month when some of my favorite shows return.

1. Scandal 

(Starting Sept. 25 - Thursdays)

A thriller/drama mixed with a high profile love affair and great fashion. If you aren't a gladiator and have yet to jump on the Oliva Pope bandwagon, I suggest you catch up on all previous seasons and be in front of the TV Sept. 25th at 9:00pm. This is one of those shows that I wish I could watch every night.

 It's that good. 

2. Grey's Anatomy 

(Starting Sept. 25 - Thursdays)

I have only watched the last few seasons but this is your typical hospital drama. Supply room romances where everyone has dated everyone. It's hard not to get hooked because there is always so much going on. Hopefully this season is as good as all the others without one of their best doctors, Christina Yang (Sandra Oh).  

3. Once Upon a Time 

(Starting Sept. 28 - Sundays)

CT makes fun of me for watching this one, but it hooked me from the beginning  It's all your story book characters on the big screen. The writer incorporates the fairytales we all know with some fresh new twists. I also heard the characters of Frozen are going to be on this season. Good call by writers since it's all the rave these days. 

4. Arrow 

(Starting Oct. 8 - Wednesdays)

This is a show about a billionaire hottie who was stranded on an island for years. He vowed to avenge his fathers wrong doings by coming back home to 'save his city'. He is the modern day Superman in Starling City.

5. Awkward 

(Starting Sept. 23 - Tuesdays)

This show is exactly that - awkward. High school romances, snotty girls and everyone trying to become popular. The humor in this one is what has me coming back.

I'm also really looking forward to the new premier of How To Get Away With Murder. It is written by the same lady (Shonda Rhimes) who writes Scandal and Greys - and will be on Thursdays also. She hasn't disappointed yet, so I'm sure this will be as big of a hit as the others. 

Looks like I might have to get a babysitter for Thursday nights so I can veg out in front of the TV. That or I'll just send Kingston to the bedroom with CT to watch some football. ;)

What are you favorite fall shows? 

Any I should add to my ever growing DVR list?

5 on Friday

Happy Friday! 

Usually I would start these posts with TGIF, but everyday is basically my Friday since being on maternity leave. I don't know what I'll do when I have to return to work in November. :/

Anyways . . . 

1. I went to a Doterra essential oil party last night and I left overwhelmed with information. It sounds legit and there was really good testimonials. Anyone have any experience with them? I've seen them all over Instagram lately so I'm curious. 

2. I have lost 31 pounds since having Kingston 5 weeks ago. How crazy is that? I only gained 26 pounds while pregnant so I'm down an additional 5 pounds from my pre-pregnancy weight. I officially got 'cleared' from the Dr. on Wednesday so now it's time to start the toning process. Unfortunately, I lost all my booty that I worked so hard for 12+ years (playing volleyball). I'll be working on that plus regaining my abs. Thank goodness for Pinterest! 

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3. I am so thankful I was passed on the creative genes. My dad is an art teacher and his mother owned a quilting store. Anyone who knows me knows I love to craft/sew/add paint to everything. Check out what I've done this week! 

Ballin' 

Superhero

Cycles 

These reversible bandana bibs are being sold in my Etsy shop! They are made from high quality cotton and minky - with two snap closures that can fit from infant to toddler! 



4. Pray for me as I go on my first road trip tomorrow (alone) with Kingston to watch CT coach his first game of the season. Wichita KS - Crete NE. Thankfully Salina is on the way so we will stop and see Nana and G-Dub! 



5. I received a Target gift card and scored some goodies at the clearance racks today. Of course I didn't even look for myself, only the little man. 

Looking forward to the weekend. It's suppose to be in the 70's this weekend. I can't wait!

Linking up with: The Farmers Wife, Lauren Elizabeth, A Little Bit of Everything, XOXO Rebecca, Diary of a Real Housewife

1st Month {Mama} Must Haves

Earlier this week I wrote about 1st Month Month Haves for Kingston. Today I'm going to let you in on a few necessities I've needed to survive this past month.  

1. Cute Tumbler filled with Grape Koolaid

If you are breastfeeding or have breastfed - you know all about that constant thirst.  Unfortunately, I've never been one of those people that love water. I wish I was but I'm not. This past month though, I've had a tumbler beside me at all times and 4/5 times you will find it filled with grape koolaid. I figured since it's essentially sugar water and I'm staying hydrated - it's fine. Once Kingston starts peeing purple, I'll cut back. 

2. Thong Panty Liners

So . . . remember how I ended up having to have a c-section? One would assume after a vaginal delivery that you would bleed for quite awhile - but who knew that after a c-section you would bleed just as much or more. TMI - but I don't wear granny panties so these are a must. 

3. Summer Infant Safe Sight Digital Color Video Monitor

I had such a hard time deciding which monitor to go with and after having the summer infant safe sight color video monitor for a month, I am so happy with my choice. Being a first time mom, I can't imagine not being able to see the baby - especially for us because Kingston has been sleeping in his crib in the other room since day 5. I like this monitor because you can zoom in and out and it comes in both color and automatic night vision. 

4. Nike Athletic Shorts

I have lived in Nike shorts since having Kingston (except for church days). They are so comfy and you don't need to change ever if you don't want to. They are acceptable to wear in front of company, they can be worn to sleep, out on a walk or to Wal-mart. 
They really are multi-functional ... and cute! 

5. Dermalogica Clearing Skin Wash

So as soon as Kingston was removed from my tummy - my 14 year old complexion decided to reappear. This face wash is expensive but it is a good product. Thankfully I got it back when I was working at the spa and received a huge bottle at a discount. It's working for me now but zits are super annoying and I'm always looking for a product that works better. 

What do you use to fight acne?

6. Phone App - Assistive Light 

During all of my middle of the night nursing sessions, I turn on this bad boy. I try as careful as possible to keep Kingston in a night time 'sleepy' mode without stumbling around and hurting ourselves. This light is easy to get to on my phone and a total necessity. 

7. Phone App - Feed Baby 

For the past 5 weeks I have been tracking all of Kingston's diapers/feeding sessions/naps. As of today, I will only be using it to track which side he nurses from and how often. Since we are doing the Baby Wise method of nursing ever 2.5/3 hours, it helps having easy access to see when he last ate. This app also has options to track their stats (weight,height,etc) and pumping sessions. It does it all and it's super user friendly. The only thing I wish the free version had was the ability to pause during a nursing session. I've considered purchasing the full version just so I can have that feature. Too many times we pause to burp or readjust. 

8. What to Expect - The First Year

If you read my post about all the stuff I have googled in the first few weeks, you know I am a nervous nelly and have so many questions about everything. This book is awesome and covers any topic imaginable that could come up in the first year of your child's life. I am so glad I was able to borrow this from a friend (thanks Jenna!). 

9. Automatic Car Start

Whether you have a baby in the summer heat or winter cold, having your car the correct temperature prior to getting in is amazing for both mama and baby. I'm so glad I got an auto start for Christmas. It was definitely money well spent. 

10. On Demand/Netflix/Hulu/DVR Subscription 

 I have spent so many hours on my couch in front of the TV the past 5 weeks. With that being said, day time TV is brutal and I have been on the lookout for new shows. Thank goodness for DVR and Netflix.

11. Lansinoh Disposable Nursing Pads

The baby cries - I leak. The baby nurses from one side - I leak from the other. I get out of the shower - I leak. Needless to say ... I'm a fountain and these are essential for me. I was gifted Medela disposable pads but I've had better luck with the Lansinoh brand. They absorb a little better and are odorless. 

12. Gilligan and O'Malley Nursing Bra

I have two of these (wireless) and I couldn't live without them. Enough said. 



13. Covered Goods Nursing Cover
 At first I was able to borrow a nursing cover purchased from Udder Covers. Being a first time mom, it has taken a little practice feeling comfortable nursing in public. One thing I didn't like about the Udder Cover was that it didn't cover your backside. So while I was hiking my shirt up at the volleyball game I had to continue tucking it in in the back so I wasn't exposed. Thanks to instagram I found Covered Goods. Their cover slips over both shoulders, is made from a super cute light weight fabric and covers everything so you don't have to be self conscious about anything being seen. It also can be worn as a scarf or car seat cover if you choose. Multi-functional is the best! 


14. A Friend 
Someone you can ask anything and everything to. Someone that is available to listen to your crazy questions, someone who will give you advice but not get offended if you don't take it, someone who is encouraging and someone who will pray for you. I definitely could not have survived this first month without friends. 


Am I missing anything that would make the next month even easier?

Linking up with Serenity Now.
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1st Month {Baby} Must Haves

There are a million and one posts like this floating around the web. I know when I was preparing for Kingston's arrival I logged on to Pinterest only to be bombarded with baby favorites. I was able to learn a lot and see what worked and what didn't for lots of mama's - so I figured I'd give my two cents for anyone who is interested. 

Here are a few items that have been essential for the first month of Kingston's life. 

1. Summer Infant SwaddleMe, 3-Pack, Busy Bees 
($21.36)

These are the exact ones I use every time we put Kingston to sleep. As soon as he is done eating, I wrap him up as snug as a bug in a rug, burp him and then lay him down to sleep. I'm certain he sleeps so well because of these. 

2. Aden + Anais Bamboo Swaddle Blanket 
($39.44)

I had so many mamas recommend these blankets to me, especially since I was having a summer baby. I took one look at the price tag and was not going to spend $40 for three blankets. Thankfully, I was gifted a 3 pack and I am oh so happy. They are light weight and the perfect super size to cover the baby or me if I need something quick when nursing. This blanket is a must have for us during every car ride, church trip and walk. 

3. Football Wee-Wee Blocker 
($9.99)

CT and I have both been christened with our little mans urine and needless to say, we weren't using our football blocker at the time.  If you don't want to clean up the walls, the changing table and the changing pad - purchase one of these. And if you purchase it, use it! What good does it do when it's just sitting on your changing table? 

4. Munchkin LATCH Paci 
($5.99)

We love these huge silicone orthodontic pacifiers and so does Kingston. All the lactation people say don't give them a paci until they are at least 2 weeks old to make sure they don't get nipple confusion. Well we broke all the rules and gave it to him in the hospital. I love that they are soft and don't leave marks on his face and it's so cute to see him suck through it. 

5. Britax B-Agile Travel System 
($319.99)

We have this travel system in black and LOVE it!  We use the stroller daily whether we are visiting CT at the football field or when we go on all of our walks. It is so classy looking and functions great. When registering - the stroller and car seat was a tough one for me to decide on, and after a month of use I am 100% happy with our decision! 

6. Mommy Hook 
($6.99)

Of course I decided to go with a huge diaper bag and it doesn't fit so well beneath the stroller. This hook allows for it to hang from the handle bar and gives me easy access to it. Along with the diaper bag, I've hung multiple shopping bags from it and it holds it all. This product definitely makes life easier. I have it in black but they make it in so many fun colors! 

7. Huggies Clutch & Clean Carrying Case 
($8.95)

This wipe case is a necessity for our diaper bag. First of all it's cute and comes in a few fun patterns, and second of all it's compact and does a great job at keeping the wipes moist. We are thinking about cloth diapering (if I can get up the nerve) and I've heard this case is awesome for cloth wipes as well. It's a win/win.

8. Safety 1st Medicine Pacifier 
($1.99)

We have had to give Kingston gripe water and gas drops on two different occasions and we used this pacifier to do so. He was able to take the medication at his own pace and we didn't have to deal with the dispenser and not getting everything swallowed. 

9. Boon Grass & Stem - Drying Rack 
($25.99)

We actually have the lawn (which is bigger than the grass) and the cute flower on our counter. You can also purchase a twig or butterfly if the flower isn't your style. It is a fun/modern drying rack that has a lot of room for multiple items and its drying tray is easy to remove. If everything is going to be displayed on my counter, I'm glad it looks fun! 

10. Sleep Gowns 
($10.99)

Kingston has LIVED in sleep gowns his first month. We have tried ones from Carters/Gerber/etc. and they all get the job done. With as many diaper changes as we do, these gowns are so nice because I don't have to deal with snaps. My favorite ones are the ones that have fold over flaps on the arms to keep the hands covered.  

Hopefully this was helpful! 

What are your must have products?

Linking up with Leslyn!
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